Page 123 of DeLucas After Dark

I decided it was time to add some warmth to the atmosphere. I retrieved my collection of scented candles from the cupboard and began placing them strategically around the house. The rich aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filled the air, creating a warm, inviting ambiance.

"Nicole," Vito called out softly, "they're here."

My heart skipped a beat as my stomach twisted with anticipation. I hurried to the door, smoothing down my dress and taking a deep breath to calm myself. As I opened the door, the cold December wind swept in, stinging my cheeks and making me shiver involuntarily.

"Marcello! Safia!" I exclaimed, opening my arms wide for a hug. They each embraced me warmly, their smiles radiant despite the chill. I felt a sense of connection to them both that went beyond mere family ties. We were all survivors in this dark world we had each been thrust into.

"Come on in," Vito said, stepping forward to greet our guests. He too embraced Marcello and Safia, his strong arms enveloping them in a protective gesture that spoke volumes about his loyalty to those he loved.

"Thank you for having us," Marcello said, his voice slightly hoarse but sincere. "It means a lot to be able to spend Christmas Eve with family."

"Of course," I replied, guiding them further into the house. "We wouldn't have it any other way."

"Everything looks so beautiful," Safia murmured, her eyes taking in the festive decorations with appreciation. "You've really outdone yourselves."

"Thank you," I said, smiling. “We’re trying to make it a festive holiday.”

"I promised her it would be different than any Christmas she has ever experienced," Vito agreed, his eyes meeting mine for a moment before returning to our guests.

"Let's make this a Christmas to remember then," Marcello suggested, his eyes sparkling with sincerity. "For all the right reasons—family united."

"Here's to that," Safia echoed, raising an imaginary glass in a toast.

"Agreed," Vito and I said in unison.

“Where can I put this?” Safia asked for the gift boxes in her hand.

“You can put them underneath the tree,” I replied, pointing to the massive tree in the living room.

“Wow, that’s a tree!” Safia exclaimed when she returned.

“Thanks,” I beamed as Vito and I led her and Marcello into the dining room.

Vito had outdone himself. The table was a masterpiece of elegance, adorned with fine china and gleaming silverware that seemed to sparkle in the dim light. In the center, a beautiful floral centerpiece stood tall, its deep reds and greens a testament to the season.

"Please, have a seat," Vito gestured toward the chairs, his eyes momentarily roaming over my red dress for another quick assessment.

"Thank you," Safia said softly, her eyes wide with admiration as she took in the scene before her. She and Marcello sat down at the table, their amazement palpable.

"Everything looks amazing," Marcello added, giving me a grateful smile. "You two really outdid yourselves."

"Thank you, but Vito prepared the table," I replied, unable to keep the pride from my voice. "We wanted this to be a special night for all of us."

“Brother, you did all of this?” Marcello asked. “I’m impressed.”

“Take lessons, little brother,” Vito retorted, causing everyone to chuckle.

As we settled into our seats, I couldn't help but notice how different this Christmas felt from those of my past. There was a sense of unconditional love floating in the air. A sense of different souls that had experienced pain or deceit at the hands of those who should have loved them. And we had overcome it all.

"Shall we begin?" Vito asked, his voice filled with forced cheerfulness. He reached for the carving knife, skillfully slicing through the golden-brown turkey that took up residence in the middle of the table. As he served each of us a portion, I couldn't help but admire his ease and precision. Yep, my man was fully domesticated and I loved it.

"Tell me, Marcello," Vito began. “What are your plans once things settle down?"

Marcello hesitated for a moment, seemingly caught off guard by the question. "Well," he began slowly, "Safia and I have talked about it a lot, actually. We'd like to start our own business – something small, but meaningful."

"Really?" I asked, genuinely intrigued. "What kind of business?"

"Something that helps people in need," Safia chimed in, her eyes alight with passion. "Maybe a community center or a shelter of some kind."

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