Taken_ A Dark Mafia Romance - Piper Stone Page 0,98
everything was more private, as it should be for this kind of event.
“So many people are here,” I said, shocked seeing at least one hundred and fifty people.
“They have a good reason to be here.”
I nodded, scanning the crowd as the tension increased.
“I see your parents,” Matteo whispered in my ear.
I tightened my hand around his, plastering a smile my face as he walked us through the crowd. As my mother turned around, I was forced to press my hand across my mouth. The always prim and proper woman no longer had the look of a Stepford wife, her hair hanging below her shoulders and the simple dress and flats not something I could ever imagine her wearing. But the best part was her genuine smile.
As she rushed forward, she hugged Matteo first, gushing over him. “I’m so glad you’re both here.”
“You look... amazing,” I said, almost stunned in seeing my father more relaxed than I’d ever seen him, his golf shirt like nothing I’d seen hanging in his wardrobe.
“Just something I pulled out of the closet,” she said, winking. “I have a couple things to do before the guests of honor get here but get yourself a drink.” She kissed me on the cheek before walking off, humming to whatever music was playing.
“We are in the Twilight Zone,” I murmured.
“Changes can be good,” Matteo said, laughing.
I felt him stiffen. “What’s wrong?”
“My parents are here.”
“Because they should be.” I turned to face him, giving him a stern look. “Never forget that you belong here. You are important to the sect and to this woman standing in front of you. You are a true saint.”
“I’m a sinner, Winter, but I love you. Never forget that.”
There were so many things to say before I gave him his present, but they would have to wait. Christian approached, his eyes roaming the grounds.
“Brother,” Matteo said in such a reserved voice.
Christian finally smiled, pulling him into an embrace. “I’m happy to see you, brother.” He reached out for my hand, pulling me closer. “You’ve both become very important to me.”
“Are you ready for this?” Matteo asked as they broke the embrace.
Laughing, Christian once again eyed the crowd. “I wasn’t expecting to see so many community members here.”
“They care,” I said, trying to keep the tears from forming.
“Well, I guess they do. I’m really sorry that you had to cancel the wedding.” Christian shook his head. “The sect has a way of interfering.”
I glanced at Matteo, his face stoic.
“It was for the best.” Matteo’s voice sounded far away.
As my mother moved toward the tent, the band she’d hired changed the music, making certain everyone was aware that it was time for an announcement.
“Please, everyone come closer,” my mother said, motioning with her arms.
“Great. I hate this shit,” Christian huffed then squeezed Matteo’s arm. “You’ll both be right there. Won’t you?”
“We wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Matteo finally grinned, giving him a nod of respect.
We trailed behind him, moving toward the front of the tent, the same position as when I’d opened the wretched Box. How things had changed.
“Welcome to our home,” my father said, taking a moment to gaze at the group of people. “We are happy to have you here for this special occasion. However, this isn’t about me. Christian?”
As Christian walked closer, I could see such strength in the man, very much like his brother.
“Thank you all for coming. I won’t tell you how difficult this has been.” Christian’s strong voice faltered. “Stephanie and I appreciate all your prayers and good thoughts.” He hesitated then issued a huge smile. “I’m pleased to present Alicia Winter Capodanno and her beautiful mother, my lovely wife, Stephanie.”
As the crowd clapped, I was able to see only a few dry eyes. Tears slipped past my lashes, my heart exploding with pride and joy. “What an honor,” I managed, my voice cracking. I hadn’t been told my name would be used.
“That’s because you are part of the family,” Matteo said as he wrapped his arm around me.
Christian was finally beaming, his beautiful baby daughter healthy, Stephanie recovering with no permanent damage to her heart. “I’d also like to present Alicia’s godparents. Miss Winter O’Brien and my brother, Matteo.”
Matteo grinned, allowing the partygoers a hefty round of applause before lifting his hand. “Christian. You made a mistake.”
Christian lifted his eyebrows as he turned to his brother. “Oh, yeah? What’s that?”
“Godparents, Mr. and Mrs. Matteo Capodanno. We were married almost ten days ago in a quiet ceremony on Jekyll Island.”