11. Leila
CHAPTER 11
LEILA
T he sight of Chateaux looming in the distance sends a shiver down my spine, its towering spires and fortified walls casting an imposing shadow over the surrounding landscape. As we approach the gate, the guards check on our IDs, and we move on.
Christopher squeezes my hand and brings it up to his lips. “You okay, piccola?”
“Yeah,” I lie. I’ve been to so many gatherings, each of them ending with my soul ripped. A shiver of terror runs down my spine, but I pretend everything is fine. My heart pounds in my chest as we pass through the second gate, the weight of anticipation hanging heavy in the air.
“I’m here with you, Leila.” His voice drags me from my panic. I move my gaze up to him. “A new chapter is attending us, and I want you by my side.”
I nod as my stomach knots. Elena is here too and I’m pretty sure Ferdinando will slay alive whoever dares to even stare too much at her. I’m wondering if it’s the same for Chris.
The car doors open and we get out. The red carpet leads the path until the castle entrance. I look up and the sky and the beauty of it takes my breath away. It can be seen the myriad of stars and I get lost in their beauty. I feel Chris moving close and when I shift my gaze, my eyes lock with his.
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”
“It’s magical, I haven't seen something more beautiful.” A smile escapes me, feeling foolish. Truth is I haven’t had that many chances to look at the stars.
“I agree.” He nods while drinking me in. He leans in and kisses my lips, making me melt.
As we move inside, I'm struck by the grandeur of this place. Its high ceilings and ornate chandeliers cast a soft, golden glow over the room. The air is filled with the murmur of voices and the tinkling of glasses, the sound of laughter and music mingling together in a symphony of sound.
I take a deep breath, trying to calm the fluttering of nerves in my stomach.
This is where we’ll get married. His words still spin in my head. Christopher’s hand finds mine as he leads the way toward the ballroom.
As I scan the crowd, my heart skips a beat when I catch sight of so many people. It takes time for us to greet everyone, and I couldn’t miss the difference between some men even though they all wear a tuxedo. They have that attitude that makes you hold your breath just looking in their direction.
“Christopher,” one of them stops his conversation when he sees us, “and this young lady should be Leila?”
I froze in place. My heart hammers in my chest while fear grips me, cutting my breath.
“Miss, are you okay?” He looks worried.
Calm down, you’re safe.
“I’m sorry, yes, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr.?”
“Carmine. Carmine Ferraro.”
My mouth drops open and instinctively I grip Christopher’s hand. He bends down to whisper something, but I can’t hear the words.
“I’m sorry, I heard so much talk about you, that I’m surprised to meet you in person.”
“If they were good things, then they’re true.” Carmine heartily laughs along with Ferdinando and Chris. “I doubt the old Bonetti has ever praised me.”
I look down, feeling embarrassed. What do they actually know about me?
“Now I’m curious. Let me guess,” he rubs his chin, “Bonetti wanted to organize an ambush.”
My eyes snap to his. How does he know? “We’ve always been ten steps ahead of him. But would like to have a chat with you,” he pauses. “Of course, Christopher may join too.”
“Sure.” My voice trembles, betraying all my acts of being at ease here.
“Enjoy the party, and welcome to the family, Leila.” He moves away even before I can thank him.
Elena appears at my side, her smile bright and infectious. “Come on, Leila.” She takes my arm and leads me through the crowd. “I want to introduce you to some friends.”
As we weave our way through the throng of people, I can't help but feel a sense of awe at the opulence surrounding me. The women are dressed in elaborate gowns, their jewels glittering in the soft light of the ballroom. The men, too, are impeccably dressed in tailored suits and polished shoes, their confidence evident in every step they take.
I find myself drawn into conversation with some of the wives, their easy banter and genuine warmth putting me at ease. For once, I feel like I belong, like I'm a part of something bigger than myself. And as I steal a glance at Chris across the room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this moment of respite. He looks every bit as handsome as I remember, his dark hair tousled and his eyes sparkling with mischief. For a moment, our gazes lock and he flashes a smile before continuing his conversation, and I feel a surge of warmth flood through me, washing away my fears and doubts.