Chapter 14 - From Ash to Empire
The wedding took place at the historic Saint Michael’s Cathedral in the heart of the city.
Over five hundred guests filled the pews—syndicate bosses, foreign ambassadors, state senators, and every member of the Moretti estate staff, all dressed in their finest attire.
Security was absolute. Hundreds of elite Moretti guards secured every street corner, ensuring that our day of celebration remained untouched by the shadows of the past.
The massive oak doors of the cathedral swung open.
The grand organ swelled with the triumphant chords of the bridal march.
I walked down the long, red-carpeted aisle on the arm of my younger brother, Leo.
Leo stood tall, healthy, and handsome in his tailored tuxedo, smiling proudly through his tears as he walked me toward the altar.
And waiting at the end of the aisle was Luca.
He looked breathtaking in a bespoke black tuxedo, his eyes shining with an overwhelming mixture of pride, love, and awe as he watched me approach.
When Leo placed my hand into Luca’s, Luca leaned down and whispered into my brother’s ear, “I will protect her with my life, Leo. Always.”
“I know you will, Luca,” Leo smiled, stepping into the front pew beside Uncle Salvatore.
Luca turned to me, his dark eyes glistening with unshed tears as he looked at his mother’s gown, and then into my eyes.
“You are the most beautiful vision I have ever seen,” he murmured.
Before God, the five families, and every person who mattered in our world, we exchanged our sacred vows.
We promised loyalty through fire, love through storm, and honor until our final breath.
May you like
“By the authority vested in me,” Father Antonio declared with a broad smile, “I now pronounce you husband and wife. Luca, you may kiss your bride.”
Luca didn't hesitate. He pulled me into his arms, lifting me slightly off my feet, and kissed me with a fierce, passionate devotion that drew a deafening roar of applause and cheers from every corner of the grand cathedral.
