The car pulls up to the church and we climb out, straightening our suits. I take a deep breath, as we make our way inside.
White flowers and candles decorate the altar, creating a soft and romantic atmosphere.
I take my place at the front, Fed standing beside me as my best man.
As we wait for the ceremony to begin, I can’t help but let my mind wander to Carmela. What will she be wearing? How will she look walking down the aisle toward me?
Federico leans in. “Ten bucks says she trips on her way up here.”
I elbow him in the ribs. “Have some respect, jackass.”
He just shrugs, unrepentant. “What? It would make for a memorable story.”
I shake my head, but I’m grateful for his presence. Having him here helps ease some of the tension I’m feeling.
The music starts up, signaling the beginning of the ceremony. I square my shoulders as I prepare to face my future wife.
The music swells and the church doors swing open, revealing Carmela in all her breathtaking glory. A sharp inhale catches in my throat. She’s wearing a form-fitting white gown that hugs her curves inallthe right places, the delicate lace bodice showcasing her smooth, olive skin. Her dark hair is swept up in an elegant updo, a few loose tendrils framing her face.
But it’s her eyes that captivate me. Those piercing green eyes that had first drawn me to her that night in the club. They lock onto mine as she begins her slow march down the aisle, her gaze unwavering.
In that moment, any lingering anxiety I had about this arranged marriage fade away. Seeing Carmela walking toward me, looking like a fucking goddess, I’ve never felt surer about anything in my life.
She reaches the altar and hands her bouquet to her maid of honor, Sophia. As she turns to face me, I can see the mix of emotions playing out on her face. Nervousness, excitement, and a hint of that addicting defiance that I admire.
I reach out and take her hands in mine, marveling at how perfectly they fit together. “You look incredible,” I murmur.
A faint blush colors her cheeks, but she lifts her chin defiantly. “Let’s get this over with,” she mutters, her tone clipped.
Even on our wedding day, she’s determined to fight.
The priest begins the ceremony, but I barely hear his words. I’m too focused on the stunning woman before me, aware of the way her hand trembles in mine.
When it comes time for the vows, I repeat the traditional words without hesitation. “I, Silvo De Luca, take you, Carmela Bianchi, to be my lawfully wedded wife...”
But when it’s her turn, Carmela falters. She clears her throat, her gaze darting away from mine. “I, Carmela Bianchi, take you...Silvo De Luca...to be my husband.” Her voice is barely above a whisper, the words forced out through gritted teeth.
She may not like it, but this marriage is happening whether she wants it or not.
The priest pronounces us husband and wife, and I don’t waste a second. I pull Carmela into my arms, my lips claiming hers, sealing our vows.
She stiffens against me, her hands coming up to push at my chest. But I don’t let her go. I deepen the kiss, my tongue delving into her mouth, tasting her like I’ve been fucking starving. In all honesty, I have been starving without her.
After a long moment, she relents, her body melting into mine. I can feel her surrender, feel the way she yields to my dominance.
When I finally release her, she’s breathless and flushed, her lips swollen from my kiss. I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction at the dazed look in her eyes.
“You’re mine now,” I murmur, my hand cupping her cheek. “And I always take care of what’s mine.”
She jerks away from my touch, her eyes flashing with anger. “I don’t belong to anyone,” she hisses. “Least of all you.”
“We’ll see about that,caramia. We’ll see.”
With that, I take her hand and lead her back down the aisle, ignoring the murmurs and whispers of the guests. Let them talk. As far as I’m concerned, Carmela is the only one who matters now.
She may not have chosen this marriage, but I have no doubt that in time, she’ll come to accept her place by my side. And until then? Well, I’ve always enjoyed a challenge.
6
