Page 31 of Bound to the Bratva
Vera's mouth practically drops open in shock. "You're fucking with me right now."
I shake my head, "No, I wish I was. But I've made sure Nikolai won't be pulling any stunts like that anymore. If he does, he'll have to deal with me."
Vera raises her eyebrows, "So, you're becoming protective over her. That's surprising."
I furrow my brows, laughing bitterly. "Why is it surprising?"
Vera takes a moment to carefully choose her words before responding. "I figured you'd only use Aria for show, nothing more. I never expected you to actually care about her well-being. I assumed she would merely be a pawn in the Bratva power game for you."
At first, I thought the same thing. But that night in the alley when everything changed between us...I knew I couldn't go through this without caring about her.
"I guess you could say my perspective on all of this has shifted," I admit.
Vera chuckles, amusement evident on her face. "I'd say so," she glances at the clock on the wall. "Are you ready? It's almost time for your wedding."
"I'm as ready as I'll ever be," I reply honestly. No one can truly be prepared for an arranged marriage.
We both stand up from our chairs and leave the room, making our way downstairs. Vera leads me into the grand room where my wedding to Aria will take place.
The space is massive, with towering forty to fifty foot ceilings adorned with intricate designs. Stained glass windows surround the room, casting a colorful light throughout.
Meanwhile, every pew in the church is filled to the brim, and it feels like our wedding is going to be the event of the season.
I guess it's not every day the Bratva's prince gets married.
I stand at the end of the aisle, my heart racing and my hands trembling in nervous anticipation. My hands even begin to start sweating, and I didn't expect this to happen.
The soft strains of instrumental music fill the church, creating a tranquil ambiance as I wait for the doors to open.
Finally, they do, revealing Aria standing at the end of the aisle in a stunning white dress that hugs her curves and flares out gently at the hips. It's not overly extravagant, but it suits her perfectly and she looks absolutely radiant.
Her father is beside her, his arm linked in with hers, and she appears less than thrilled about it. I imagine it's something else he's forced upon her.
I look at her, trying not to be frustrated, focusing on how beautiful she looks.
I take in every detail from the delicate lace embellishments on the bodice to the graceful way her hair is styled. As she takes carefully timed steps toward me, I notice the intricate geometric pattern on her dress, a unique touch that only adds to her beauty.
But then again, I shouldn't have expected anything less from Aria. I'm starting to think she's always one to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.
As Aria reaches the front of the aisle, her eyes meet mine, and I can see a mixture of nerves and determination in her gaze. We both know why we're here, because we've been promised to one another.
I might have seemed like a pompous ass when I first met her, but I have no intention of making her life a living hell. We're going to be partners and I will damn sure make she knows that.
Her hand trembles slightly as it reaches out to intertwine with mine, seeking the comfort and support I am more than willing to offer. Her father steps back, taking his seat in the first row on her side of the room.
The priest begins the ceremony, his voice echoing through the grand room. My attention is solely on Aria, curious to know if she's freaking out or if she's accepted her fate.
Once the priest is done with the introductions, we begin the service and soon enough we're exchanging vows.
Shockingly enough, her words flow like a gentle melody. Her voice is filled with sincerity and strength, and I find myself captivated by her every word.
I didn't think there would be any genuineness in her tone as she exchanged these vows. If anything, I thought there might be some annoyance or malice in her words.
"I promise to stand by your side through every storm and every triumph," Aria says, her voice filled with honesty. "To cherish and protect you, to love you fiercely and unconditionally."
I can't help but smile at her heartfelt words, feeling a sense of awe wash over me. This fiery woman standing before me is not one to be tamed or controlled. She is a force to be reckoned with, and I know she will make a great mafia queen when the time comes.
What people don't know is the strength hiding under the surface. She's damn well one of the strongest women I've ever met, and the few times where I've had the pleasure of being around her, I've been able to see that.
