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“Is there anything we can help with?” Misha asks.
“No.” A grin spreads over my face. “Just keep me from going to Tiana, so my mother doesn’t kill me.”
My friends laugh at my comment, then Alek says, “After today, I’ll be the only single one. I’ll have to fuck all the single women on your behalf.”
Knowing it’s all talk because Alek hasn’t been with anyone in three years, I just chuckle and shake my head at him.
We enjoy another cup of coffee before I take them out on the boat to see more of Venice. It’s only for thirty minutes, and we return in time to open for the florist.
“I’m going to Tiana,” Misha says. He pats Alek’s shoulder, “Make sure Armani’s at the altar at one.”
“Trust me,” I mutter. “I’ll be there.”
Chapter 29
Tiana
Aurora is helping me weave a crown of flowers to wear for the wedding when Misha walks into the kitchen.
Jumping up, I hug my brother, and instantly a wave of emotions hit.
His arms are steel bands around me, still holding the safety I’ve known all my life.
Letting go of me, he takes my hand and looks at Aurora, “We’ll be back in an hour.”
She gives him a loving smile. “Take your time. I’ll finish the crown.”
He pulls me out of the house, and we walk toward the marketplace.
“Thank you for coming.”
“Of course. It’s your big day.” He lets go of my hand and wraps his arm around my shoulders, tugging me against his side, then mutters, “My baby sister is getting married.”
His tone is filled with disbelief.
“It’s surreal,” I admit. “Armani is amazing.”
“You have him wrapped around your pinky,” he teases me.
“I think it’s the other way around.” I let out a happy chuckle.
“Damn, I’m good. I knew the two of you would make a great couple,” he boasts.
I pull away from him and tease, “I better make space for you big head.”
Misha gestures at a café. “Let’s sit here.”
A server comes, and Misha orders a glass of water and a slice of bread. The server looks at him like he’s lost his mind but walks to the kitchen.
Misha’s eyes lock with mine. “Remember how fucking cold that room was?”
Even though the morning sun is shining on me, a chill spreads through my body. “I’ll never forget.”
The server brings the order and places it between us. “Will that be all?”
“Give us ten minutes,” Misha answers.
When we’re alone, he breaks a piece of the bread off and holds it out to me.
Just like he used to do whenever he could steal something for me to eat.
My eyes fill with tears as I take it from him. Unlike the moldy bread when I was little, the fresh piece tastes delicious.
It’s the symbolism that matters.
“This will be the last time I feed you,” he says, his features tight with emotion. “From today, Armani will take over all duties concerning you.”
Dear God.
A tear spirals down my cheek, and I quickly wipe it away.
“But like a shadow, I’ll always be there, Tiana,” he continues with a hoarse voice. “Your last name might change to De Santis, but you’ll always be a Petrov.”
I nod and swallow hard. Unable to say anything because of the lump in my throat, I reach across the table and take hold of my brother’s hand.
‘I love you, Misha,’ my eyes say what my mouth can’t.
The server comes again, and this time, Misha orders pastries and cappuccinos for us.
In silence, we eat together like we’ve done hundreds of times before. Our days of starving are long gone, and a future filled with happiness awaits us.
We’ve come far and survived so much because Misha never stopped fighting for us.
I take a deep breath, and looking at my brother, I say, “Thank you for raising me, Misha. Thank you for never complaining and always doing what was needed to ensure I was safe and cared for.” My eyes mist with tears again. “You’ll be an amazing father to your children.”
He lets out an emotional chuckle. “I’ve had years of practice.”
We share a smile before he settles the bill, and we head back to Mamma’s house.
I spend the rest of the morning getting ready while Misha moves between the two houses to check on Armani and me.
Mamma and Zia Giada do my hair, letting it fall in beautiful curls down my back with some pinned up, while Aurora helps with my makeup.
When I step into the dress and adjust the lace around my body, she places the crown of flowers on my head.
“You look stunning, Tiana,” Aurora murmurs.
Misha pops into the room, asking, “Ready? Alek is struggling to keep Armani away from you.” Humor dances in his voice, then his eyes drift over me, and his features tighten. “Wow.” He walks closer and takes hold of my hand. “So beautiful.”
“We’re ready,” Mamma announces. “Let’s go.”
