Page 30 of Bound to the Bratva
This marriage was not a shock for either of us. Our parents made their choices in matching us together, yet, it does little to calm my nerves.
Why am I so fucking nervous? Is it because marrying Aria will damn well secure me as the next leader of the Bratva, or is it the unknown future that awaits me after marrying her?
I know she wouldn't have picked this life. If anything, she's done whatever she can to be distanced from it.
I take in a deep breath and sigh, knowing all too well that everything changes for us today.
Aria's father specifically requested this church for our ceremony, adding a layer of pressure and tradition to the daunting event. The church itself is steeped in history, its walls adorned with faded frescoes and ancient stained glass windows. I have to admit, it's a beautiful scene.
As much as I would like to have control over every aspect of our wedding day, I have willingly handed over the reins to my bride-to-be, Aria.
Our marriage was a decision made for both of us, and the least I can do is give her the freedom of planning out the small details. At first, she told me she didn't want to, but I knew she'd regret it if she didn't, so I pressured her a little bit.
The only thing that I really give a damn about is good food and an abundance of alcohol, because trust me, we're going to need it. Aria's taken care of everything---from choosing the perfect menu to selecting the most talented musicians for our reception later tonight.
Our reception is being held two blocks away at a rental space, still luxurious, but a place where we'll all be able to have some drinks and cut loose.
I take another deep breath, calming my nerves.
Aria is the key to me taking over the Bratva, and regardless, I am marrying her today.
I'm sitting in a cushioned wooden chair on the second story of the church where we're getting married, drinking a glass of vodka before I am no longer a single man.
I always knew I'd be married, but when I envisioned my future wife, I never thought she would be a caring pediatric oncologist. I expected a spoiled, rich Russian woman. If you ask me, I've been blessed with Aria's personality and work ethic.
With a loud creak, the wooden door to the room I'm in swings open, and my sister Vera saunters in. "Are you ready to be a married man?"
Her long, straight medium-brown hair is pulled back tightly, accentuating her high cheekbones and sharp jawline. She's wearing a deep red dress that hugs her curves perfectly, while her lips are painted a natural nude color.
I snicker at her dramatic entrance and take a sip of my drink, "I suppose, not that I've been given much of a choice."
Vera gracefully sinks into the plush armchair on the other side of the small table. "I know. Father's been discussing potential prospects for me as we speak," she pauses to roll her eyes. "I'm sure you can tell how thrilled I am about it." Her tone drips with sarcasm.
"I bet. But you know there's no way out of it, right?" I raise an eyebrow, reminding Vera not to try any rebellious antics.
She gives me a knowing look and her voice turns serious, "I know. We don't have choices in these matters."
I nod in agreement, "You're right. We don't."
Vera swipes my drink from where it sits on the table and downs the rest of it in one go. As soon as she's finished, she smirks mischievously. "So, spill the tea. Do you like Aria? You haven't really talked much about her."
I lick my lips and chuckle, barely keeping up with this new age slang.
"She's spirited, fiery, but also has a kind heart underneath that tough exterior. Being a pediatric oncologist proves that."
Vera leans back in her seat and scans me up and down. "I've heard rumors about her trying to distance herself from her father and half-siblings. How do you think she'll adapt to our lifestyle? Being your wife will mean she's up close, right in the center."
It's something I've pondered as well. "I think she's been exposed enough to the chaos to understand the risks we face every day. There will be challenges, but I believe she can handle them. And if she has concerns, I'll listen. If she's worried, I'll comfort her. She's going to be my partner for life and, believe it or not, I respect her."
Vera purses her lips before a small smile plays on them. "You're a good man. A much better man than our father ever was."
I stifle a chuckle, "Well, that doesn't take much."
"How have things been with her father? I've heard a lot about him too." Vera adds, her voice laced with curiosity.
My sister is notorious for going around and getting information on other people. If you need someone to gather facts quickly, she's the one to call.
"He's an interesting character," I pause, my anger rising as memories flood back. "He kidnapped Aria's mother and held her hostage as a way to ensure Aria would go through with the wedding. Aria told me and I handled it, making sure her mother would be freed immediately."
