58. Serafina
CHAPTER 58
Serafina
T he past six months have been a peaceful blur, wrapped in the warm embrace of love and healing between Lucas and me. We've left behind the volatile world of my family's battles for control, choosing instead to forge a life that is uniquely our own.
Lucas even turned down the opportunity to step into his father's role as the new Don of the family business. Apparently, his father had been grooming him for this since they first met, testing him with every task and responsibility to ensure he was prepared for the transition. It was a difficult choice for him, given how much he yearned to make up for lost time with his dad. But in the end, he prioritized our relationship over power and influence, and my love for him only grew stronger.
And with each passing day, glimpses of the old Lucas resurface, from the light in his eyes to the way he holds me as if I am everything to him. It's like with each passing day, he's shedding the weight of his past pain and darkness, letting our love be the guiding light toward a brighter future filled with hope and tranquility.
This morning, I run my fingers over the delicate heart-shaped leaves of the massive Thai Constellation Monstera plant, feeling the smooth texture under my fingertips. "You've grown strong and healthy," I whisper softly to it, encouraging its growth. My heart flutters with gratitude for all the gifts Lucas has given me: a collection of all the lush tropical plants I've always wanted and the freedom to do whatever I please with my life.
"Sera, have you seen my gloves?" Lucas's voice echoes from the exposed brick hallway. There's a hint of frustration in his tone, but it's softened by the warmth that always creeps in when he talks to me.
"On the counter, where you left them," I call back, smiling to myself. He's always misplacing things in this new life of ours.
"Gracias, mi angel," he replies, gratitude evident in his voice. I hear the sound of him grabbing the gloves, the familiar rustle of leather.
I approach the window and peer outside from the small storefront we've been renovating. The sign isn't displayed yet, but in my mind's eye, I can see it clearly: Fenestrated Wings Tropical Oasis. It feels almost unreal, like a dream that was once too grand to imagine is now becoming reality.
"Ready for your grand opening?" Lucas asks, stepping into the small storefront. His eyes, those captivating grey eyes, are bright again. Each day at his new boxing gym brings him closer to the man he once was before he was consumed by the darkness that my family still chooses to live in.
"Almost," I reply, turning to face him. "Just a few more plants to arrange and some final touches. The store sign comes in today." I pause, studying his face. "How's the gym?"
"Good. Really good," he says, a small smile playing on his lips. "Thinking of opening another one on the other side of town. Business is booming."
"That's wonderful, babe." I can't help but beam with pride. Seeing him thrive and find his way back to what he loves—fills me with a joy I can't put into words.
"Don't forget, Nora is visiting tomorrow," Lucas reminds me. After our arranged marriage and reconciliation, Lucas and I held an intimate reception for our loved ones, including Nora. It was hard to face her, even harder than reconciling with Lucas, but I've come to understand where she came from and have found it in my heart to forgive her. Despite everything, I can't help but admire the unwavering loyalty she has always shown towards Lucas.
But even as everything seems perfect, a shadow lingers, a nagging fear that tugs at the edges of my happiness. My family... the Mancinis. They never really let go, do they? I can't help but wonder when they will decide to expand to Florida and claim us as their own. Will we ever indeed be free from their grasp?
"What's on your mind, love? Worried about Nora?" Lucas's voice pulls me back. He's closer now, his piercing grey eyes filled with worry and love. The lines on his forehead deepen as he studies me, trying to understand what's troubling me. His voice is gentle, like a warm embrace that wraps around me and pulls me back from my inner turmoil.
"No, I look forward to rebuilding my relationship with her." I force a smile and shake my head, trying to push away the thoughts that weighs heavily on my mind. "Just thinking about the store. Everything has to be perfect."
He sees right through my deception, pulling me close into his strong embrace. His arms provide a sense of security and reassurance that I desperately need. "You're a terrible liar, Sera," he murmurs softly, his lips brushing against my forehead. "But remember that whatever is troubling you, you'll never have to do any of it alone again."
"I know." The weight of his words sinks in, and I feel myself relax further into his grasp. Closing my eyes, I rest my head against his chest and listen to the steady beat of his heart. For just a moment, the chaos inside me quiets under the peaceful rhythm.