Page 93 of Sexted By a Stranger
"Worthy?" Lorenzo's mouth turned down, his tone harsh. "And her way of proving that is making you shake the family's foundation? Luca, even your father never lost his head over a woman like this. How many people can those 'clean' businesses feed? How many mouths are waiting for their daily bread? Don't tell me you can't see that."
"You're wrong, Uncle." My voice remained steady. "Sheila understands who we are and what we do better than you think. She can handle the weight of it all." I stepped forward, holding his gaze.
"And she's already proving it. Beyond jewelry design—finance courses, business books, she's studying financial reports at three in the morning. She's actively learning. She can stand beside me and help hold up this family."
The air seemed to freeze. Lorenzo's piercing eyes locked onto mine, as if penetrating my skin to examine the quality of my soul.
Time crawled by, second by second.
Finally, his tense jawline relaxed, and his weathered hand rose to pat my shoulder heavily.
"Luca," his voice carried a hint of amusement, "you're doing better than your parents did." He paused. "I hope your choice won't disappoint us. The family's future is in your hands."
He took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping over the portraits on the wall. "Those other old fools making noise—I'll handle them."
Without looking at me again, he leaned on his silver cane and left the study.
I stood alone, facing those silent, watchful portraits once more. But the conviction in my chest—to forge a path for Luna, for Sheila, and for the family—burned stronger and more unshakeable than ever.
On the wedding day, at dawn, I stood before the altar at Santa Maria de Stella Church.
Sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows, casting dancing patterns of light at my feet.
The air was filled with the crisp fragrance of white roses and the hushed conversations of guests filling every pew.
Waiting.
Every second felt like an eternity. I could actually hear my heart pounding in my chest.
Nervous.
The feeling was strange—I'd never felt this way facing gun barrels or negotiation tables.
Images flashed through my mind.
On stage, her desperate yet defiant eyes, like a wounded animal that refused to bow its head, struck straight to my heart.
Her voice was breaking as she spoke of her dreams and her brother's illness, that weight pressing on her shoulders, making me feel protective for the first time.
Her stubborn refusal to accept gifts easily, her fierce dedication to her dreams, her radiance when she won awards,her determination to find a way out even when Connor held her captive… She was so brilliant, so captivating.
Her concern for my safety, her opposition to my business transition.
Under the harsh delivery room lights, her hair damp with sweat against her temples, her face pale, yet glowing with the maternal radiance of bringing new life into the world.
She outshone any jewel, more dazzling than the stars themselves. She was the only person who could walk beside me as an equal.
Sheila
The pure white premium silk wedding dress fit my form perfectly, intricate lace creating elegant curves.
I wore the necklace Luca had given me that first time, though the chain had been modified for the wedding.
"Sheila, be happy." Mom's eyes filled with tears as she adjusted my veil and train. "Your father is surely watching from heaven, so proud of you."
"He's always been watching over us."
Madeline hugged me tightly. "Darling, I'm so happy for you. That stubborn little girl from years ago has become the most beautiful bride."
