Chapter 47

Eliana POV

“Shopping? In Costa Smeralda?” I sounded a bit gobsmacked, and maybe I was.

“Yes, cara mia. Everyone will be at the party, and you are no exception. You need a good dress to wear, no?” Valenti asked, her eyes shining.

She was right in thinking I didn't have anything to wear, but I'd always thought I'd be able to hide out in my room and read a good book.

“Do I have to go to the party?” I asked hopefully.

Valenti tutted before she picked up the pair of jeans I had folded and set on the loveseat in my room, obviously dismayed by my question - and my wardrobe.

“Si - yes. Everyone goes, it's tradition. Even before the island was opened to tourists, we used to have a celebration to welcome in the new year.”

I could tell that there was no way out of this one.

“Alright, when do you want to go?” I asked absently.

A bright smile lit up her face and the corners of her eyes crinkled. “We leave in half an hour. It's a four hour drive, so bring your book,” she said as she looked a