Chapter 25 - Aleksei
The sun is setting, casting a warm golden glow over the gardens where we stand. The scent of hydrangeas—Bianca’s favorite—permeates the air, filling the open space with a pleasantly sweet scent.
We decided to host the ceremony in our sprawling Forest Hills estate, one we bought when we were preparing for our triplets’ arrival. There's lush greenery and vibrant, colorful blooms that sway gently with the evening breeze. Lanterns line the pathway, casting a soft, inviting light that guides us forward. White chairs adorned with delicate ribbons and floral arrangements arranged in neat rows surround us, smiling faces turning towards us as we move onwards.
We walk under the arbor, the sheer fabric draped over it softening the glow of the lanterns. In the distance, a serene pond reflects the golden hues of the sunset, its surface rippling gently with the occasional summer breeze. The sound of a string quartet plays a soft, melodic tune. I glance around, taking in the scene and feeling a deep sense of peace. Are you here, Anya? Do you see this?
My brothers are sitting in the front row attempting to focus, though occasionally looking around - our triplets on their laps keeping them busy. Dmitri looks imposing as always, but the smile when he glances down at the kids says otherwise. Grigor, Maksim and Akim all have grins plastered on their lips. Lorenzo is seated at the front, too, his eyes shining with unshed tears. Over the years I’ve grown to know him I realized the tough exterior is no more than an act—the man being extremely loving and soft at heart. My heart swells with pride and love as I look back to our triplets, their innocent laughter ringing out like the sweetest music.
Bianca stands beside me, looking more ethereal than ever. Her dress is a simple yet elegant white design that flows around her, accentuated by the gentle breeze in the air. She catches me staring and smiles, a blush creeping up her cheeks and ears. I take her hand in mine, squeezing it gently.
“We're really doing this again, aren't we?” She whispers, her gray eyes reflecting my own excitement.
“It should have been like this the first time around. But I'd be happy to do this a thousand times over.” I reply.
The officiant clears his throat, diverting our attention back to him.
“Dearly beloved.” He begins, his voice carrying over the gathered guests. “We are gathered here today to witness the reaffirmation of the marriage vows between Aleksei and Bianca.” His voice continues, the drone of his baritone drawling and coming out of focus as I focus on Bianca’s face, kissed by the soft glow of the setting sun.
Her doe eyes sparkle with fondness, her plump lips morphed into an ever-present smile that fills me with a deep-seated sense of love. Her auburn hair is cut shorter to a pretty bob that accentuates the beautiful curve of her cheeks. I look back to her eyes, lost in the depth of them. The officiant finishes his speech and is now nodding at me, indicating it's time for my vows. I take a deep breath, trying not to overthink the words that I wish to say.
“Bianca, when I first met you, I couldn't have imagined the journey we would go on together. We faced so many challenges, but through it all, my one constant was you. You are my strength, my love, my partner, my everything . I vow to always stand by your side, to love and protect you, and to cherish you for the rest of our lives.”
Tears glisten in her eyes as I finish. She takes her shaky breath, opening and closing her mouth before she opens it again with determination. That’s my girl.
“Aleksei, you're my rock. My one constant, my protector, my love . You've shown me what true strength and courage are. What having my own family is. And the greatest gift of all?” She looks to the side, glancing at our triplets fondly. “Our family. I wow to stand by your side through the good times and the bad. I love you unconditionally.”
We both look back to the officiant, who smiles as he nods. I take Bianca's soft hand, slipping the ring onto her finger—a gesture she reciprocates. It feels more real this time. It feels how it should have been the first time.
The old man pronounces us husband and wife again, and we share a passionate kiss, sealing our vows with something deeper , unspoken.
Everybody erupts in a cheer, and we turn to face our family, Bianca’s hand firmly planted in mine. The triplets run towards us, little arms outstretched. I scoop the boys up, feeling their excitement as they giggle. Bianca takes Anya and leans her on her hip, kissing her on the tip of her nose.
*****
THE END