With sales of Cerullo shoes lagging, Stefano cuts a business deal with the Solaras against Lila’s wishes. After Elena gets kicked out of a class for voicing her opinion, Nino…

Entering high school, Elena vows to stay ahead of Lila, academically and romantically. Lila eschews a parade of suitors vying for her affection, choosing instead to focus on her ambitions…

Now a teenager, Elena grapples with the onset of puberty, her studies, and her friendship with Lila, who now works in her family’s shoe-repair store. After a library awards ceremony…