Page 401 of The Devil's Fire

“It’s okay with me. I will see you there.” She smiled as they left.

Giovanni stopped in front of her, and his expression softened.

“You look beautiful.” He told her, and her eyes glistened, trying her best to hold the tears back as he pulled the veil over her face.

He would never admit it directly to her, but she had won him over a long time ago, and even though he said he wouldn’t, he would die for her.

Luca handed her the bridal flowers, looking at her with a warm smile. He liked her from the very first time they hung out on the day of the auction. He saw her as his precious little sister since he had none, and he loved that she was in his life with such a bright personality.

“Ready?” He asked her.

“Yes.” She gave a nod and let out another breath before she would finally see her groom.

Luca and Giovanni went on either side of her and held out their arms for her to take. Together, they made their way out to everyone who was waiting.

The live orchestra was playing soft melodies as Cara, the Matron of Honor, walked down the aisle, leading the bridesmaids, Ava, Arianna, and Cecilia.

A collective smile and gentle laughter rippled through the crowd as the flower girl made her appearance. It was Antonio, cradling his adorable baby girl, dressed in a tiny white dress with a delicate bow atop her head. As he walked, he scattered flower petals, captivating the hearts of everyone present.

Everyone turned their attention back to the doors when the music changed, waiting for the bride to make an appearance.

Damiano had his hands clasped in front of him, so he wouldn’t be trying to fix his tie like he had done at least a hundred times already as he waited in anticipation.

The doors finally opened, and a smile immediately found its way onto his lips, his shoulders relaxing in relief as well. Damiano’s eyes never once left hers as she slowly walked down the aisle to him. He could swear to God right at this moment that he stopped breathing at the sight of his breathtaking bride.

Althaia only had eyes on Damiano with a smile so radiant on her lips. Her heart was beating faster, her entire body fluttering and tingling at the sight of him. She could see how much the sun was making his golden-brown eyes shine so brightly. Never before had he looked so breathtakingly handsome as he did on this day.

Althaia proceeded slowly down the aisle, capturing everyone’s attention with the exquisite dress she was wearing. Her mother had poured her heart into designing the perfect wedding gown, and the look of sheer joy on her mother’s face as she watched her daughter wear it was beyond words.

The dress was an off-shoulder design with delicate, transparent sleeves with intricate floral patterns. Its top was elegantly adorned with layered flowers, flowing into a slightly puffy skirt that cascaded into a long train behind her. It was not only stunning but also comfortable for her growing, pregnant belly.

As Althaia reached the end of the aisle, Damiano descended a few steps to take her into his arms. She stood before him, flanked by her favorite bodyguards, Giovanni and Luca, who were proudly giving her away.

Before Damiano could take her, Luca clasped a hand on his shoulder, leaning into him.

“I’m risking my life by saying this; but with all due respect, Boss, if you hurt her, we’re coming after you.” Luca said firmly, meaning every word.

“You’ve got us to deal with if you do, Boss.” Giovanni backed up Luca. They knew the severe consequences of threatening their Don, and Damiano glanced at them, cocking a brow.

“Any other circumstances, you would be dead. But, since it’s her we’re talking about, I hope you keep your word.” Damiano responded, amused with them.

He knew it was impossible not to care about her, because she was a pure soul, and in his eyes, she would always be his innocent woman, no matter what.

With Althaia’s hand in his, Damiano led her up the gazebo steps, where Raffaele stood ready to officiate their marriage.

As he lifted her veil, Damiano couldn’t help but feel starstruck and completely captivated by her beauty, especially her striking green eyes. His heart raced as he wondered how it was possible for her to be this enchanting. With each passing day, she only seemed to grow more and more beautiful.

Today, she radiated as brightly as the diamonds adorning her. The Tiffany Yellow Diamond hung elegantly around her neck, complemented by matching earrings. Her long hair cascaded in beautiful curls, adorned with a matching hairpiece to complete the jewelry ensemble.

“Absolutely breathtaking.” He whispered to her, watching as her cheeks flushed with that reddish hue he found so damn endearing.

Althaia smiled shyly, her heart fluttering at their closeness. Nonna had separated them a week before the wedding to uphold the tradition of not seeing the bride before the wedding day.

It had been torturous for both of them.

“Welcome, loved ones!” Raffaele spoke loudly with a smile. “We are gathered here today to join Althaia and Damiano in holy matrimony.” He announced as he continued with the invocation.

“May their marriage be filled with the sweet embrace of love, the joyful echoes of laughter, and the never-ending warmth of happiness. You may exchange your vows.”

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