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"Everything's perfect," I think as I admire my reflection, my hair styled in soft curls with blossoms woven throughout, adding an ethereal touch.
A knock on the door interrupts our reverie, and someone from the church pokes their head in. "Everything's ready," they inform us, their smile warm and welcoming. This time, there's no fear in my heart, only excitement.
As I walk through the corridor of the church I grew up in, I'm struck by its simple beauty. The sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows casts a kaleidoscope of colors onto the polished wooden pews, while the familiar scent of incense and old hymnals fills my lungs. The echoes of footsteps on the stone floor merge with the gentle hum of anticipation from the waiting congregation.
Pausing in front of the cathedral's entrance, I thread my arm through my mother's, feeling her strength and love envelop me. Sofia goes first, her tiny hands scattering petals down the aisle like confetti. I smile at my mother, who leans in close to whisper, "I love you, and I know you're already married."
Shocked, I can only blink at her in surprise, but she just laughs softly. "It's okay, mija. I'm glad we still get to share this moment together." Tears prick my eyes as I tell her I love her too, and her pride shines through her own tears as we begin our walk down the aisle, arm in arm.
As I make my way, the faces of people I know and love surround me like a warm embrace. Happiness fills every corner of my heart, leaving no room for doubt or fear. My gaze finds Giovanni standing at the altar, looking absolutely breathtaking in his tuxedo. The tailored suit accentuates his broad shoulders and lean waist, while his dark hair is styled to perfection, framing his striking hazel eyes.
How did I ever get so lucky? The gratitude I feel knowing he's mine swells inside me, threatening to spill over as tears. He loves me, flaws and all, and I couldn't ask for more.
My mother releases my arm, her eyes shining with unshed tears. As she hands me off to Giovanni, she leans in and whispers something into his ear. I wish I could hear what she says, but it doesn't seem to faze him. Then again, it would take more than a threat from my mother to rattle Giovanni Maldonado.
"Are you ready, princess?" he asks softly, his voice laced with tenderness.
"More than anything," I reply, getting lost in the depths of his soulful eyes.
The priest begins the ceremony, but all I can focus on are Giovanni's eyes, filled with love and devotion. We recite simpler vows this time, saving our most intimate declarations for when we're alone together.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife!" the priest exclaims, but before he even gets to "kiss the bride," Giovanni grabs me and presses his lips fiercely against mine. Cheers erupt around us, and I can't help but smile through our passionate kiss.
Reluctantly, he breaks away, and we race back up the aisle, hand in hand, as everyone claps and cheers. As we reach the vestibule, I remind him we need to wait for the receiving line, but he just grins mischievously.
"Princess, you're way too beautiful for me to wait another second," he declares, sweeping me off my feet and tossing me over his shoulder. Laughter bubbles up inside me as he carries me to the waiting limo.
"Put me down!" I squeal, swatting at him playfully.
"Never," he counters, a devilish glint in his eyes.
As soon as the limo door closes, Giovanni's lips are on mine again, his hands exploring every curve of my body. His touch sends shivers down my spine, setting me ablaze with desire. By the time we reach the reception hall, he's already brought me to a trembling, breathless climax.
"Welcome to our forever, Lucia," he whispers against my skin.
ChapterForty-Nine
The clinking of champagne glasses and the low murmur of guests' laughter swirl around me as I stand in a shadowed corner at my own wedding reception. The beauty of the moment is marred by the weight of an impending threat, like a dark cloud hovering just out of sight. Teddy slips beside me, his blue eyes wide with worry, and immediately launches into his report.
"Things are getting a lot worse with the Irish," he says, glancing nervously over his shoulder. "Despite the message we sent, they're clearly gearing up for something big."
Guilt gnaws at me as I take in Teddy's unease. I've pinned him with this burden, but what else can I do? Lulu needs me here, and I can't abandon her.
"I know, Teddy," I sigh, rubbing the back of my neck. "But Lulu needs me here. I can't leave her now."
Teddy nods, his expression understanding yet still tense. "I respect your decision, Giovanni. I'm just worried about the war that seems to be coming our way, whether we want it or not."
"How do you know what the Irish are planning?" I ask, searching Teddy's face for answers.
"Reports say they're stockpiling weapons and ammunition in a specific church under the protection of a priest friendly with the Westies," he replies, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Handle the situation, Teddy," I say, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You can do this."
He frowns, uncertainty etched across his features. "How?"
"I leave that up to you," I reply, trying to reassure him. "Maybe rely on help from the inside—someone you trust who can be a sounding board for your decisions."
"Thanks, Giovanni," Teddy murmurs, nodding thoughtfully. "I'll think about it."
