Chapter 27
Istand in front of the full-length mirror, admiring my elegantly simple wedding gown. The ivory satin flows smoothly over my body, hugging my waist before cascading downwards into a soft A-line skirt. Delicate lace covers the bodice and trails up to the sweetheart neckline, perfectly complementing my fair complexion. Martha fusses with my veil, adjusting it just so, to complement my elegant updo.
You look absolutely stunning, Martha says, meeting my eyes in the mirror. Dimitris not going to know what hit him when he sees you walking down that aisle.
I manage a small smile, comforted by my best friends presence. My mind drifts back over the chaotic few weeks since Dimitri proposed. Weve had to scramble to arrange everything - the venue, my dress, the guest list - compressing months of typical wedding planning into mere days.
It was necessary to avoid any rumors or speculation over the rushed timeline. Our family names carry weight, so any hint of scandal had to be suppressed. My father and Dimitri made sure to smooth over things with Lorenzo’s family. Despite the frenzied preparations, somehow everything has come together seamlessly.
My gaze travels down to the breathtaking diamond and emerald engagement ring on my left hand. The one Dimitri gave me to replace the gaudy ring Lorenzo forced upon me. This ring symbolizes my freedom and future with the man I truly want to be with. Thinking of Lorenzo sends a chill down my spine even now. I feel eternally grateful to Dimitri for rescuing me from Lorenzos abuse and rage. For protecting me and our unborn child.
I place a protective hand over my still-flat stomach. We have not told anyone about the pregnancy yet - that will come later. For now, its our precious secret. I imagine our baby with Dimitris piercing blue eyes and dark hair. A perfect combination of the both of us. My heart swells thinking of the family we will build together.
I still cant believe this is really happening, I murmur. Part of me keeps waiting to wake up from some dream.
Martha gives me a knowing look in the mirror. After everything you two have gone through to get here, you deserve this happy ending. No one is going to take that away now.
Youre right, I reply with more conviction. Martha squeezes my shoulders affectionately. Its time! I take a deep breath and nod, holding back happy tears so as not to ruin my makeup. Arm in arm, we head out of the bridal suite towards the doors where my father waits to walk me down the aisle.
I take my fathers arm as we stand outside the wooden doors of the quaint chapel. I can hear the murmur of our guests within, waiting for the ceremony to begin. My heart pounds against the fitted bodice of my dress. I remind myself to breathe.
The chapel is small but beautifully intimate, with white-washed walls and sun streaming through the stained-glass windows. The pews are adorned with ivory bows and lush green garlands interspersed with white roses and lilies - simple yet elegant, just as I envisioned.
As the opening notes of A Thousand Years by Christina Perri begin, the doors open. I clutch my fathers arm tighter as we step forward. The aisle is strewn with white and pink rose petals, their soft fragrance perfuming the air.
My gaze locks on Dimitri standing tall and proud at the altar, looking strikingly handsome in his black tuxedo. His ice blue eyes meet mine, and for a moment the intensity of his stare makes my steps falter. I glimpse something vulnerable in his expression - uncertainty? - before his mouth curves into a tender smile meant only for me.
The guests turn to watch my approach, familiar faces smiling supportively - classmates, professors, Martha glowing in her bridesmaid dress. Ivan beside Dimitri. But I barely notice them, my focus consumed by Dimitri. Each step down the petal-strewn aisle feels surreal, as if Im gliding through a dream.
My anxiety battles with euphoria within me. I want this, I want him, but the speed of it all still feels dizzying. Dimitris eyes anchor me, reminding me this is real. Our love is real. We will build a life together.
As I draw nearer, I notice with a pang that Dimitris family is not present. Not his father, the Bratva boss, or his mother. No one from that world bears witness besides his cousin Ivan. Dimitris smile doesnt reach his eyes now. I know he must feel their absence deeply, no matter his brave front.
My heart aches for the sacrifice being with me requires of him. But his steady gaze conveys no regret, only certainty. I know in this moment we will face any future together, no matter the cost. No matter who stands against us.
We have reached the altar now. Dimitri extends his hand and I place mine in his strong grasp. His touch instantly calms my remaining anxiety and we turn together to face the officiant,
I stand before Dimitri, our hands joined, as the officiant prompts him to recite his vows. Dimitris voice is steady and sure as he promises to love, honor and protect me all the days of our lives. But his eyes reveal a vulnerability and depth of emotion Ive seldom glimpsed before.
I vow to be your loyal and devoted husband, he continues, ice blue eyes boring intensely into mine. To stand steadfast by your side through all lifes challenges and joys. To shelter you from harm, provide for your needs, and ensure your happiness.
His thumb gently caresses my knuckles, sending little thrills up my arm even now.
I promise to be faithful, to cherish every moment we have together, and to build a home filled with laughter, trust, and abiding love. Dimitris voice softens, thick with sincerity. You are my heart, my very life. This I vow before God and these witnesses.
My vision blurs with tears as Im deeply moved by his words. I know Dimitri always keeps his promises. As the officiant prompts me to give my vows, my voice wavers with emotion. I have to pause and take a shaky breath before continuing.
Dimitri, I vow to be your loving and devoted wife. To stand steadfast by your side through sunny days and storms. To offer you comfort, encouragement, and joy.
I squeeze his hands, hoping he understands how much I mean these words.
I promise to nurture our relationship and our family. My other hand drifts to my still-flat stomach. To be your faithful partner, and to cherish every moment we share.
Tears run down my cheeks.
Youve shown me true protection and care. With you Ive found a home. My heart and life are yours, this day and always.
As I finish, Dimitri mouths I love you. Overcome with emotion, I mouth it back. The officiant says something about rings, but his voice fades into the background. Dimitri and I are locked in each others gaze, the rest of the world falling away so only we two remain.
In this perfect, suspended moment, there is no past or future - only us, together at last. United with him, I have everything I need.
The officiants voice gradually filters back into my awareness.
I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.
Dimitris hands come up to cradle my face. I see joy, desire, and protectiveness swirling in his blue eyes before they flutter shut. He kisses me tenderly at first, then with increasing passion. My arms wrap around his shoulders as I return his fervor. We kiss like its just us alone, ignoring the cheering guests. We pull back slowly, foreheads touching, breathing each others air.
I sway in Dimitris arms as we share our first dance as husband and wife. The upbeat melody of At Last by Etta James surrounds us, though all I hear is the pounding of my own heart. Dimitris hand is firm yet gentle on my lower back, guiding me effortlessly around the dance floor. Our guests form a circle around us, dancing along to the classic tune.
Im keenly aware of all the eyes upon us. My father and Dimitris cousin Ivan watch us with hint of smiles. Martha beams, dabbing her eyes with a napkin. The rest of our guests regard us with cheerful curiosity, enjoying the celebratory atmosphere.
Part of me feels shy at being the center of attention, but mostly Im lost in my own world with Dimitri. Here in his arms, the crowd soon fades away until its just the two of us. His ice blue eyes gaze down at me tenderly, making me feel like the most cherished woman alive.
Have I told you how stunning you look today? Dimitri murmurs, his breath warm against my ear.
I smile, leaning into him. Only about ten times so far.
His chuckle rumbles through his chest. Well, you are exquisite. The most beautiful bride that ever lived.
Heat rushes to my cheeks at his effusive compliment. I smooth my hand along his muscular shoulder, feeling the strength coiled there even as he holds me gently.
And you are the most handsome groom, I return softly.
Dimitri presses a kiss to my forehead. We sway and spin slowly to the music, comfortable in each others arms. Despite the public setting, Ive never felt more intimate with him than in this moment.
Too soon, the song ends and transitions into something more upbeat. The dance floor fills with our guests boogieing to the fast rhythm. Ivan is ignoring Marthas request for a dance, and my father reluctantly allows himself to be pulled into dancing by my mother.
Dimitri and I move off the floor, fingers entwined. We pause by the drink table to catch our breath. Dimitri hands me a glass of sparkling water. The bubbles tickle my nose as I take a small sip.
Shall we step outside for a moment? Dimitri suggests, leaning close to my ear again so I can hear him over the music. His warm breath makes me shiver. I nod eagerly, welcoming a chance to steal a private moment with my new husband.
Dimitri guides me through the crowd towards the back terrace doors. The lively party continues on behind us, but once were outside, the music becomes a distant thrum. Dusk is falling, and the sky awash in hues of orange and pink. Strings of lights twinkle around the stone terrace, surrounding Dimitri and I in a soft glow.
He draws me over to the carved stone railing overlooking the garden. I run my fingers along the smooth, cool surface. Dimitri comes up behind me, hands settling on my hips. I lean back against his solid chest with a contented sigh. His chin rests atop my head and we survey the landscape before us.
Its so peaceful out here, I murmur.
Mm. Perfect place to sneak a moment with my beautiful wife. Dimitris arms wrap around me fully, enveloping me in his warmth and subtle, woodsy scent.
I cover his hands with my own, stroking his knuckles. The new wedding bands glint on our entwined fingers. Its still sinking in that were really married now. That youre my husband.
And youre my stunning wife. Dimitri turns me in his arms so were face to face. One hand comes up to cradle my jaw, tilting my gaze up to meet his. Ive never been so happy, Sara. Or felt so lucky to have you by my side.
His voice is low and fervent. I see the truth of it shining in his ice blue eyes. My heart swells and I blink back a tear of joy.
I feel the same, I whisper. Like all my dreams just came true.
Dimitris thumb brushes my cheek. Ill spend every day trying to make you this happy. You deserve that and so much more.
Oh Dimitri... Overcome with emotion, I pull his head down to me for a long, slow kiss. We lose ourselves in each other under the twinkling lights.
Right now, nothing else exists but Dimitris lips claiming mine, his strong hands splayed across my back, holding me flush against him. I pour all my love and desire into returning his kiss. Dimitri makes a low sound of pleasure that thrills me to my core.
Were both breathing harder when we finally break apart. Dimitris eyes smolder down at me now, dark with want. It takes all my willpower not to lead him upstairs to one of the guest suites right this instant.
We should get back to the party, I manage weakly.
Dimitri sighs, resting his forehead against mine. Youre right. But later... His hands flex suggestively on my hips and I flush. Laughing softly, he kisses my cheek then takes my hand to lead us back inside.
The boisterous reception welcomes us back. I blink, adjusting again to the bright lights and lively atmosphere. Martha dances over to us, face flushed from exertion and champagne.
There you two are! Come on, youre missing out on all the fun! She tugs at Dimitris arm eagerly.
He chuckles, allowing himself to be pulled along. Alright but try to keep up!
I trail behind, watching Dimitri joking and dancing animatedly with our friends. My heart fills seeing this lighthearted side of him that he shows so rarely to anyone but me.
Despite his ruthlessness towards enemies, I know Dimitris actions stem from past wounds and a fierce desire to protect those he loves. He would move heaven and earth for me. And our baby, I think with an inner thrill, hand drifting once more to my still-flat stomach.
The DJ announces its time for the bride to toss her bouquet. Im surrounded by a gaggle of enthusiastic single women, jostling playfully for position.
Ready ladies? I call over my shoulder. Their cheers nearly drown out the music. I glance at Dimitri, who winks at me from across the room. Facing forward again, I close my eyes, say a wish for our future, and toss the flowers high over my head.