Chapter 73: Sydney

"Elena," I murmured, my voice barely a whisper. "I..."

Before I could finish, someone called out to us from across the park, breaking the spell. We both turned to see a figure approaching, and the moment was lost.

"Hey Carmen," said the woman, her voice slicing through the intimate bubble we had just shared.

My heart sank as I recognized Sydney. She had blond hair that cascaded in waves down her back, framing a face that was almost painfully beautiful. Her blue eyes sparkled with mischief and something else—determination, perhaps.

She wore a sleek, form-fitting red dress that clung to her curves, the fabric shimmering under the park lights. Her hairstyle was elegant, with soft curls cascading down her shoulders, giving her an ethereal, almost angelic appearance.

"Sydney," I said, my voice laced with irritation. "What are you doing here?"