I take a deep breath, trying to steady the whirlwind of emotions coursing through me. Today is the day I marry Marcello DeLuca, the man who has seen me at my lowest and still chose me. The man who stood by me through chaos and bloodshed, who fought to keep me safe.
I look around the elegant bridal suite of the grand cathedral where our wedding is about to take place. My heart pounds with excitement and nervousness.
Lucy, my maid of honor and childhood friend, stands beside me. She is a welcomed serene presence amid my storm of emotions. Even though we were separated for far too long, no one knows me better than Lucy. Not only has she seen me at my best, she witnessed the worst day of my life—the day I lost my family in the car bombing.
Now, she gets to watch me step into a new chapter, a chapter filled with love and hope.
"Hold still, Safia," Lucy says gently as she adjusts the delicate lace of my veil. Her hands are steady, a contrast to the slight tremble in mine. Once she's satisfied with the veil, she steps back to admire her work. "Okay, honey! You look stunning. Absolutely breathtaking."
I glance at myself in the mirror, barely recognizing the woman staring back. My dress is a dream—a cascade of ivory silk and lace that hugs my curves and flows into a train that seems to go on forever. My hair is swept into an elegant updo, adorned with small pearls that glint softly under the light. For a moment, I almost see my mother in my reflection.
A pang of longing tugs at my heart.
As if sensing my thoughts, Lucy steps closer, enveloping me in a warm hug. "You know, I really admire you, Saffie. Your strength is amazing," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "Remember what your mom always used to say: 'We are stronger than the storms we face.'"
Tears well up in my eyes at the memory. I blink rapidly, not wanting to ruin the makeup that took hours to perfect. "I can’t believe you remember her saying that. Oh, how I miss her so," I manage to say, my voice cracking.
Lucy pulls back slightly, looking into my eyes. "I know," she says softly. "I know, I know. But she's here with you, in spirit. And she's so proud of the woman you've become.”
“Everyone says she would be proud of me, but do you really believe that?” I ask my best friend, the one person in the world I know will not spare my feelings. She will tell me the truth, no matter how it makes me feel.
“Saffie, listen to me and listen to me closely. You are living your mother’s wildest dream. You are a theater director and actress. You’re marrying a man who loves everything about you. Girl, from just the short time I have been around you two, I believe he even loves your shadow.” She grins. “And as a side note: how do you get a man to love your shadow?” She waves her hand. “We can talk about that later. Just know that through everything  you have been through, the good and the bad, you have kept your glow. So, when I tell you Mrs. Maria would have been proud, she would have been swelling with pride!”
I take a deep breath, trying to steady my voice. "You know, if Marcello loves my shadow, it’s because it doesn’t talk back or make him give me foot massages!" I chuckle, hoping the lighthearted comment will break the emotional tension.
Lucy’s laughter rings out, and she shakes her head, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Something tells me he doesn’t mind giving you foot massages," she teases, her playful tone lifting my spirits. Then, she raises a brow, leaning in with a conspiratorial grin. "Pray tell, how are all the DeLuca men you know married? There’s got to be one of those fine men somewhere that doesn’t have a ring. Are you sure Marcello doesn’t have any more hidden brothers?"
I laugh, feeling the tightness in my chest ease a little more. Our ability to find humor and bring light in every moment we’re together is one of the many reasons I cherish her friendship.
"There are some that aren’t married. Ramiri isn’t married," I point out, thinking of Marcello's father.
Lucy grins. "He’s twice my age. And I’m pretty sure Loretta is not letting her silver fox out of her sight anytime soon. Have you seen the way she holds onto him?"
A mischievous smile plays on my lips as I respond, "I have seen them together, yes.” I chuckle, knowing good and well that no one is taking Ramiri from Loretta. “I was just saying he’s not married.”
Lucy’s eyes twinkle with amusement. “Might as well be the way she clings to him like he's a winning lottery ticket. If she could, she'd probably bubble-wrap him to keep him safe!"
I laugh. You're probably right!”
“I bet she even tracks his every move with a GPS. There's no escaping Loretta's love radar!" Lucy continues, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Just then, there is a knock at the door.
“Come in,” I answer.
The door opens, and Marcello’s younger cousin from Italy, Tommaso, steps in. He’s tall and handsome, with the same piercing dark eyes that run in the DeLuca family. He looks every bit the part of the charming rogue, exuding confidence as he scans the room.
“Speaking of love radar,” Lucy murmurs for my ears only, her gaze sweeping appreciatively over Tommaso from head to toe.
Tommaso pauses, his eyes lingering on me with a look of admiration. "Safia, my beautiful cousin," he greets, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Marcello wanted me to come and tell you to hurry up. He’s getting impatient."
I roll my eyes, but the smile is unstoppable. "I’m pretty sure we’re supposed to wait on the wedding director. Tell my future husband he can wait a few minutes longer."
Tommaso chuckles, a low, rich sound, shaking his head slightly. "I’ll tell him, but I don’t know how well he’s going to take it. He’s under the impression that you can speed things up and that you’re stalling to marry him."
“Please assure him that I will be down the aisle as soon as possible and that I am not stalling to marry him,” I say, emphasizing each word with mock seriousness.
Tommaso gives a salute. “I told him there would be no speeding you up, but he threatened my life if I didn’t come and ask you.” He grins, his eyes briefly catching Lucy's as he turns to leave.
There's a moment of silent acknowledgment between them—an electric undercurrent of interest passing in that fleeting exchange. He exits the room with a lingering glance over his shoulder at Lucy, who is watching him with interest.
As the door closes, Lucy’s speculative gleam grows into a grin. "Bingo," she whispers, her voice filled with amused triumph. "He’s my future husband."
We burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the room.
"Future husband, huh?" I tease, raising an eyebrow. "You’ve already got it all planned out, do you?"
Lucy winks at me. "Oh, absolutely. Did you see those eyes? And that smile? He’s practically auditioning for the role of my dream man."
I shake my head, grinning. "Dream man or not, I think you’d better get in line. I’ve seen the way every woman he comes in contact with has been eyeing him since he got off the plane in America."
Lucy scoffs playfully. "Please, they don't stand a chance. I’ve got the winning combination of charm and an irresistible love for pasta. How could he possibly resist?"
"True," I laugh, "you do have a certain knack for charming the socks off people. But don't forget, you're competing against Loretta’s legendary lasagna she’s been making for the family. That’s a tough act to follow."
Lucy feigns shock, placing a hand dramatically over her heart. "Challenge accepted! I'll just have to up my game. Besides, who needs lasagna when you can have me and my homemade tiramisu?"
"Fair point," I chuckle. "But don’t be surprised if Tommaso shows up at your door with an army of DeLucas, present company included, all wanting a taste."
She grins, eyes twinkling. "As long as he’s there, I’ll make enough tiramisu to feed the DeLuca army. No problem."
We share another laugh in this perfect moment.
With Lucy's help, I make the final adjustments to my dress and veil, feeling more like a bride with each passing second. She steps back once more, her eyes shining with unshed tears.
"You’re ready," she says softly. "The most beautiful bride ever."
Taking a deep breath, I nod, trying to steady the flurry of emotions inside me. "I am so glad to have you back in my life. Thank you, Lucy. For being here with me today. For everything."
She squeezes my hand, her grip firm and reassuring. "Always."
We walk to the entrance together, and I pause, taking in the sight before me. The grand cathedral is bathed in a warm, golden light, casting a glow over the rows of elegantly dressed guests. At the front, three large candles flicker gently, each with a picture of my mother, father, and sister hanging above them. The tribute signifies their presence here with me today. I can almost feel their love surrounding me in this moment.
The music starts, and my heart races. Lucy begins her walk to stand beside the altar as my maid of honor.
Uncle James steps up and takes my hand. “Are you ready, kid?”
Smiling, I nod. “I’m ready.”
I begin my walk down the aisle, every step bringing me closer to Marcello. He’s standing at the altar with his gaze locked onto mine. He looks devastatingly handsome in his black tuxedo, his eyes filled with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine.
Uncle James squeezes my hand gently and whispers, "You look stunning, Safia. Marcello's a lucky man."
I smile nervously, my heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nerves. "Thanks, Uncle James. I can't believe this day is finally here."
He chuckles softly. "It's a big moment, kid. But you're ready for it. Just remember to breathe."
My family is here, all of them. Vito, standing tall and proud, Nicole by his side with a radiant smile. Ramiri and Loretta, their hands intertwined, looking every bit the couple in love. And my beloved Uncle James, fully recovered and beaming with happiness, taking me to my future husband. Gabriella smiles graciously, waiting for him to return to her. There are hosts of DeLucas and other guests I can only assume Ramiri and my uncle invited.
We reach the end of the aisle where Marcello stands, his eyes still locked on mine. Uncle James gives my hand a reassuring squeeze before placing it in Marcello's. "Take care of her," he says quietly to Marcello, who nods solemnly.
I feel Marcello's warmth as he gently takes my hand, and together we turn to face the officiant.
The ceremony is a blur of vows and promises, each word etched into my heart. Marcello's voice is steady and filled with emotion as he pledges his love and commitment to me, and I mirror his sincerity with my own vows.
When the priest finally pronounces us husband and wife, the crowd erupts in cheers and applause. Marcello takes my hands in his, his eyes are filled with passion, desire, but most of all happiness. He leans in slowly, capturing my lips in a kiss that speaks volumes without a word being spoken.
Just like every time he kisses me, it's just us—lost in the sweetness of our first kiss as husband and wife. We hold onto each other, savoring every morsel of the kiss, neither wanting it to end.  

 
At the reception, we’re surrounded by everyone, their congratulations and well-wishes filling the air. Lucy hugs me tight, whispering words of encouragement and love. Vito and Nicole offer their congratulations, Vito’s usual stoic expression softened with a rare smile.
Ramiri and Loretta are next, their embrace warm and welcoming. “I have considered you as my daughter from the time Marcello told me of your true identity, but now I am happy to welcome you to the family, officially,” Ramiri says, his voice thick with emotion as he envelopes me in an embrace. “We’re so happy to have you.”
Uncle James and Gabriella beam as they hug me. “You did it, kid,” Uncle James says, his voice gruff with pride. “I tried to stop this in the beginning, but you didn’t listen. You grabbed ahold of your happiness and made it yours. And I admire you for that.”
“Thanks, Uncle James.” My heart feels so full listening to his words. “I am forever indebted to you.”
“We all are,” my grandparents, both sets, relate as they step forward, their voices intertwining in a harmonious blend of love and support.
I gasp, tears springing to my eyes as the reality of their presence hits me. “You’re here. I didn’t see you in the wedding hall. I…I didn’t know you would come,” I manage to say, my voice catching with emotion.
They surround me in a warm embrace, their love enveloping me like a comforting blanket. The familiar scents and the soft rustle of their clothes bring back memories that fill me with a profound sense of belonging.
“We couldn’t miss this for the world,” my mother’s mother says, her voice quivering with emotion. Her eyes, bright with unshed tears, reflect the joy and pride in my heart. “Your parents would be so proud.”
I hug her tightly, my heart swelling. “Thank you,” I whisper, savoring the moment, her gentle strength giving me a sense of calm.
“You look so much like her,” my mother’s father says, his voice thick with emotion. He quickly flicks away a tear, his usually stoic expression softening with fond remembrance.
“Oh, granddad,” I say, falling into his arms. His embrace is a sanctuary, a place of safety and love.  And no matter how far removed I am from him physically, his love will forever be etched into my mind. “Thank you for being here.”
My father’s parents step forward next, their eyes twinkling with joy. They each take turns hugging me, their words filled with warmth and happiness. “We are so happy for you, dear,” my grandmother says, her voice tender and affectionate. My grandfather nods, his smile broad and full of pride. "The most beautiful bride ever."
As I bask in the love of my grandparents, the crowd parts, and a figure steps forward with a commanding presence. It’s Enzo DeLuca, the Don of the DeLuca family, a man whose influence and respect are well known. He exudes an air of authority.
Enzo is tall and striking, with sharp features. He approaches Marcello and me with a dignified grace, his gaze softening as he looks at us. “Marcello, Safia.” His voice is rich and resonant. “It’s an honor to be here today to witness your union.”
Marcello pulls him in for a hug. “Enzo! So glad you could make it.”
Enzo claps him on the back. “I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.”
“Where’s Eve?” Marcello asks.
“She’s home. She didn’t feel up for the flight, but she insisted I come.” He turns to me and plasters on the signature DeLuca smile. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Safia,” he says. “I’ve heard so many great things about you.”
I blush slightly. “Thank you, Enzo. It’s wonderful to meet you too.”
Enzo gives me a brief hug. “Welcome to the family, Safia. I hope you’re ready for the DeLucas.”
“Ready for every second,” I assure him.
“I like her,” Enzo says, raising his glass. His voice carries over the gathered guests as he announces. “Now, it’s time to party! Let’s celebrate my little cousin getting his ball and chain with joy, laughter, and lots of dancing!”
The room erupts in cheers, the atmosphere transforming into a lively celebration. Music swells through the air, and people begin to fill the dance floor, their laughter and happy chatter mingling with the melody. Everyone is basking in the moment.
My eyes drift to a corner of the room where I spot Lucy making her way toward Tommaso. She moves with a light, confident step, her gaze fixed on him. I watch as she sidles up to him, a playful grin on her face.
Tommaso turns to face her, his expression shifting from mild curiosity to delighted surprise. Their connection is immediate and palpable, like two magnets drawn together by an irresistible force.
Lucy gestures towards the dance floor, and Tommaso nods, extending his hand in a gentlemanly gesture. She takes it without hesitation, and they move through the crowd with natural ease.
They make their way to the center of the floor, where Tommaso places his hand gently on her waist, and they begin to dance. Tommaso twirls her around, and Lucy tilts her head up, her gaze meeting his with a look that speaks volumes.
I can't hear their conversation, but their expressions and body language tell a story of strong interest. It's as if the room has faded away, leaving just the two of them, lost in the magic of their encounter. I know that feeling all too well. All too well.
Marcello leans in. "Looks like Tommaso has found his Juliet."
I nod, unable to tear my eyes away from the scene. "They certainly have made an impression on each other," I say, my voice tinged with affection.
We watch as they glide across the floor. There’s a sense of something special unfolding between them, a spark ignited, possibly a new and exciting chapter.
As the song comes to an end, Tommaso dips Lucy, eliciting a round of applause from the nearby guests. He pulls her back up, and they both laugh, a sound of pure, unfiltered joy. They share a look, a moment of silent understanding, before he leads her off the floor, still holding her hand.
I smile, feeling a warm glow in my chest. In the midst of my own special day, seeing Lucy find a potential connection with Tommaso adds an extra layer of happiness to the celebration.
As the joyful atmosphere of our wedding surrounds us, the music shifts, and Jamie Foxx's "Wedding Vows" begins to play. Its tender melody and heartfelt lyrics set the perfect tone for our first dance as a married couple.
Marcello turns to me, a soft smile on his lips, his eyes shining with love and anticipation. “I’ve been waiting for our first dance,” he murmurs.
He pulls me gently into his arms. The song wraps around us, and we begin to move in sync with the slow, sensual rhythm.
Our steps are slow and deliberate, silently communicating our love. His hand rests firmly on my waist, his touch sending shivers through to my spine. His other hand holds mine, our fingers intertwined in an intimate grip. We sway together, completely gone.
The soulful notes of "Wedding Vows" guide us through a dance that feels almost like a whispered conversation, full of promises, hopes and dreams.
Marcello's gaze never leaves mine. I can see the depth of his feelings in his dark, intense eyes as we glide across the floor, our movements perfectly matched.
As the song reaches its crescendo, Marcello pulls me even closer, our bodies moving as one. The intimacy of the dance is heightened by the tenderness in his touch and the intensity in his eyes. I can feel the warmth of his breath as he leans in, his lips brushing against mine in a kiss that’s slow, and intense, and disarming.
In that kiss, there’s a promise of a lifetime together, a future filled with love, laughter, and protection. The kiss lingers, full of emotion, full of everything that is uniquely us.
When I’m completely breathless, Marcello rests his forehead against mine. His eyes, dark and intense, are filled with a love that makes me gasp.
“I love you more than words can explain,” he whispers, his voice husky with emotion.
“I love you too, more than my actions could ever show,” I murmur back, my heart swelling with affection and gratitude.
For an instant, we simply stand there, holding each other close, savoring the perfection of the moment. The music, the lights, and the cheering crowd all blur into the background.
With every beat of the song and every pulse of our hearts, we are reminded of everything we have experienced—good and bad—and of all the beautiful moments that lie ahead.
 
~*~
I hope you enjoyed the wedding.
I am thinking of writing a story for Ramiri DeLuca, but my next writing focus will be on completing book two of Touched Down on Vella, so I invite you to join me on Vella.
 
Wedding Dance Song: Jamie Foxx-Wedding Vows (youtube.com)

What do you think will happen between Rhonda and Cedric?