I kiss her slowly. For the time I have left with her and our future remains uncertain.
Chapter 37
Wedding Night
Bianca
“We might die from the sugar, but that’s okay. I put a little fruit on the plate.” I set my creation on the sectional, careful not to drop any cookies or grapes between the cushions. Maybe I went overboard with eight different chocolates on this dessert platter, but oh well.
Spending my wedding night with Benny’s grandmother wasn’t how I imagined I’d start a marriage. I don’t know what I expected after this morning’s nuptials, but everyone scattering like roaches in the light wasn’t it.
The trip to the courthouse took more time in the car than signing the actual marriage certificate. Andrea, Stephanie, and Luiggi witnessed my quick vow exchange with Benny. Steph hollered until Benny threatened to put her out, which was all the enthusiasm anyone had for the occasion.
Benny kissed my forehead and said he’d be working late.
Luiggi went off to wherever.
Stephanie ditched me to spend the day with Andrea, likely with her ankles next to her ears.
Even the staff had left hours ago.
Nonna is the only person who cares to be around me. She’s been on my ass about learning Sicilian but hasn’t left my side since I came back to the house as a married woman.
She takes biscotti off the tray. “Grazzi.”
“Pregu,“ I answer, trying my best to unclench my fists and jaw.
Theassin my assumptions was proud and wide today. I just knew I was getting some wedding cake—maybesome flowers—to commemorate the occasion. I’d settle for peanut M&M’s or another Lunchable.
Somethingto show someone cared about Benny and me getting married.
I rub my temples and release a frustrated breath. How are the people closest to me acting like today wasn’t special? Promising myself to Benny did something to me. It didn’t matter that I was in a sundress or that my hair and makeup weren’t full glam. Our connection is deeper, which should’ve constituted more than a fucking kiss on my forehead and a day of meetings.
“Vulissi ? bichiri di vinu, pi favuri.“ Nonna’s silk bonnet tips toward the wine bottles Alfred pulled from the cellar before he left.
Retail therapy was today’s sponsor, courtesy of Benny’s dime. I swapped my dress for matching silk pajama sets, printed movie tickets, boas, pearls, face masks, and in-home spa supplies. I washed Nonna’s hair and did our nails and makeup.
I deserved better today and treated myself with my new buddy.
Her grandson is still a dickhead, but Lionara Parisi is alright with me. Being around her reminds me of Mama Vee. Her wisdom. The love and affection in her soulful eyes. Her presence quiets Mama Vee and Vince’s absence today.
I kick off my heels to get comfortable and hit play on our feature film.Mahogany. “This was Mama Vee’s favorite movie,” I tell Nonna. “She wanted to be a fashion designer with her bestfriend, who traveled to Italy. Mama loved her some fabric and said every woman should have a classic blazer, a good pantsuit, and a reliable pair of heels.”
Nonna’s hand covers mine.
“She passed away ten years ago. You two would’ve been good friends. Look at me.” I fan my face. “Crying at a movie that just started.”
The screen casts a bright glow over the living room. “Do You Know Where You’re Going To” slow dances across tile floors to the blanket we share.
I glance at Nonna and squint. “Have you seen this?” I could’ve sworn she bobbed her head.
She says something in Sicilian to Billy Dee Williams on the bullhorn.
“His character got on my nerves.” I laugh at Diana Ross playing the hell out of Tracy. She goes toe-to-toe with Brian, as she should. “Mama Vee told me sometimes true love will want to make you go upside their head. But the right love will challenge you while making you feel seen.”
I roll the gold band across my ring finger that matches Benny’s.
“Your grandson gives me whiplash. I shouldn’t say anything, but it doesn’t count as talking mess if you can’t understand me, right?”
