Chapter 12 - The Wedding of the Century
Spring returned to Ashford Landing with an explosion of blooming cherry blossoms and warm, golden sunshine.
The wedding of the decade took place on the grand lawn of the Castellano estate, overlooking the sparkling expanse of the lake.
The guest list included federal prosecutors, reformed business leaders, loyal enforcers, and close friends like Mrs. Higgins, who wept openly in the front row while adjusting my veil.
I stood in the bridal suite, staring at my reflection in the full-length mirror.
I wore a breathtaking, custom-designed gown of French lace and ivory silk, flowing gracefully behind me like a waterfall of diamonds.
The heavy oak door opened softly.
Emmett stepped inside, dressed in a sharp, tailored black tuxedo.
He stopped dead in his tracks, his breath catching in his throat as he looked at me.
“You’re the most beautiful vision I have ever seen,” he whispered, walking slowly across the room.
“You clean up nicely yourself, Mr. Castellano,” I teased softly.
He smiled, wrapping his arms around my waist and pulling me flush against his chest.
“Today, the past is finally dead and buried,” he murmured against my hair. “Today, you are entirely mine.”
Moments later, the traditional wedding march began to play from the garden terrace.
Arm in arm, we walked out into the warm spring sunlight.
As we reached the floral altar, the minister began the sacred vows, but neither of us needed reminders of promises.
Our bond had been forged in corruption, survival, and blood.
“Do you, Emmett Castellano, take Adeline Vance to be your lawfully wedded wife?”
“I do,” Emmett said clearly, his gray eyes shining with absolute devotion.
“And do you, Adeline Vance, take Emmett Castellano to be your lawfully wedded husband?”
“I do,” I answered, my voice steady and filled with unconditional love.
“You may kiss the bride.”
May you like
Emmett pulled me into his arms, kissing me deeply and passionately as the garden erupted into thunderous applause, champagne glasses clinked in joyful celebration, and our new dynasty officially began.
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