Chapter 9 - The Family We Choose
Six months later, the sun shone brilliantly over St. Patrick's Cathedral in downtown Manhattan.
The cathedral was filled with hundreds of guests—not just high-ranking businessmen and community leaders, but former servers from Lejarda, neighborhood friends from Queens, and employees from the estate.
Standing at the altar in a custom black tuxedo, Luchiano stood taller and prouder than he ever had in his life. Beside him stood Dominic as his best man, holding two-year-old Mateo, who looked dapper in a tiny matching tuxedo.
The pipe organ began to play the majestic notes of the wedding march.
The grand oak doors opened, and Amelia stepped into the light.
She was stunning. Her dress was an off-the-shoulder gown of delicate Italian lace, flowing into a long, dramatic train. Her hair was pinned up in soft curls, and her veil caught the golden light filtering through the stained-glass windows.
As she walked down the aisle, her eyes never left Luchiano’s.
When she reached the altar, Luchiano took her hand, his fingers trembling slightly as he lifted her veil.
"You are breathtaking," he whispered softly.
"And you're late on Mateo's nap schedule," she whispered back with a playful wink, making him smile warmly.
The ceremony was brief, beautiful, and filled with deep emotional weight. When it came time to exchange vows, Luchiano held both of Amelia’s hands in his.
"Amelia," Luchiano spoke clearly, his deep voice carrying across the entire cathedral. "I used to believe that power was built on fear, control, and silence. But you taught me that true power is found in love, sacrifice, and family. You brought light into my darkest days. I promise to cherish you, honor you, and spend every day of my life proving that you made the right choice."
Amelia wiped a happy tear from her eye. "Luchiano, I fell in love with a man who was brave enough to admit he needed help for his son. You gave me a home, a purpose, and a love deeper than I ever dreamed possible. I give you my heart, completely and unconditionally, forever."
"By the power vested in me," the cardinal smiled warmly, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."
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Luchiano swept Amelia into his arms, dipping her slightly as he kissed her with a deep, unending passion that drew cheers and applause from the entire cathedral.
Mateo clapped loudly from Dominic's arms, yelling, "Mamma! Papa!"
