Page 79 of Doctor Billionaire's Surprise Baby

As Simone reached the altar, her gaze met mine, and it was as if time stood still. I could see the love in her eyes, and it only intensified the emotions welling up inside me. I reached out and took her hand, feeling the warmth of her skin against mine, grounding me in the reality of this perfect moment.

"Are you ready?" she asked softly, her voice full of emotion.

"Ages ago," I replied with certainty, my heart swelling with love and happiness. In that instant, all doubts vanished, and I knew this was the exact perfect moment for me. Simone was the one I was going to spend the rest of my life with – my partner, my lover, and the mother of our beautiful son, Enzo.

As the ceremony began, I couldn't help but notice the important role our friends and family played in our lives. From Simone's mother proudly holding our precious son Enzo, to Seth standing beside me as my best man. With Dominic, Logan, and Austin standing up here with me, this couldn't be a more perfect representation of the people who had loved and protected me to get to this point.

"Simone and Hugo have chosen to include their family and friends in this special moment," the officiant said, his voice carrying across the beautiful venue. The sun cast a golden glow on everyone present, making the white flowers and elegant decorations stand out even more.

"Enzo represents the love and commitment between Simone and Hugo, and they wish for you all to be a part of his life as well," he continued.

I glanced at Simone's mother, who held little Enzo close to her chest, the pride in her eyes unmistakable. It warmed my heart to see their bond. She loved him so much and he adored her already. They were sharing this moment with us, and it meant everything. All around us, our loved ones smiled and nodded in agreement, eager to be a part of our son's life.

"Fuck, man, can you believe this?" Seth whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "You two really did it."

"Damn right," I replied, feeling a surge of gratitude for my best friend. He had been there for Simone and me at our lowest points, and his wise counsel to me had changed my course in life.

As the officiant continued speaking, I couldn't help but get lost in the atmosphere surrounding us. The soft rustling of the breeze, the gentle hum of conversation, and the captivating scent of fresh blooms filled the air. Our guests were clearly moved by the ceremony, and I saw some wiping away tears of joy.

"Today, Simone and Hugo are not only joined in marriage but also in their dedication to each other and their son, Enzo," the officiant stated. "Let us all celebrate the love they share and the beautiful life they are building together."

My heart swelled with love for Simone and our family. As I looked around at the faces of our guests, I knew we were surrounded by a community that truly cared for us, and it made this moment all the more perfect.

The moment had finally arrived for Simone and me to exchange our vows. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves as I looked into her eyes, sparkling with love and anticipation.

"Simone," I began, my voice strong and clear. "We've known each other for decades, but you've always been my best friend'slittle sister. Fate has brought us together in the best way possible. It makes me ever thankful for the love I finally saw that was right under my nose all this time. From the moment I first saw you in a different light, my life was forever changed. You've been my rock, my partner, my lover, and my best friend. And now, as we stand here today, I vow to be yours in return."

I paused, swallowing the lump in my throat before continuing. "I promise to cherish and protect you, to support and encourage you, and to always put your happiness above my own. Together, we have created an incredible life, and I am grateful every day for the privilege of being by your side. I love you, Simone, and I am honored that you have agreed to be my wife."

Tears welled up in her eyes as she softly spoke her own vows.

"Hugo, even from the early days, you have been a constant. I knew you as the precocious boy who was my brother's best friend. As I grew, I had the biggest crush on you. Part of me can't believe we are standing here today. But we've been through so much. Although most of it hasn't been planned, I feel it has been the perfect plan. My life has been brighter, fuller, and more beautiful than I ever imagined it could be. In you, I have found my soulmate, my confidant, and the father of our child. As we begin this new chapter together, I promise to stand by you through thick and thin, to be your partner in love and life, and to always strive to make you as happy as you make me. I love you, Hugo, and I am proud that today I can call you my husband."

As we exchanged rings and sealed our promises with a passionate kiss, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. Our loved ones showered us with petals, their faces brimming with joy and affection. With each step we took down the aisle, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel that we were walking toward a beautiful, shared future.

The music at the reception swelled and Simone and I laughed and giggled as we danced to our favorite song. As we twirledaround, we could see the adoring glances of our guests, and we both filled with love for each other. What a moment of perfection.

As we came off the dance floor for a bit of a breather, my parents were approaching our table. What now? I'm not sure I could take any more of this.

"Simone, why don't we go get some fresh air?" Mamma suggested, and I watched the two women walk away, leaving me alone with my father. As Simone walked, she glanced back, giving me big eyes with a shoulder shrug. It was clear she was as confused as I was.

"Son, let's go find a quiet place to talk," my dad began, his tone carrying an air of seriousness I hadn't heard before. We found a corner outside the ballroom, where we could sit. Some guests were moving between the ballroom past us to get some air or find the washroom, and although many of them nodded in our direction, it seemed to be universal knowledge not to interrupt a discussion between and man and his father on his wedding day. My father adjusted his suit jacket before continuing. "I need to tell you how proud I am of the life you've built here in America. You've become an outstanding neurosurgeon and a loving partner to Simone, and I know you will be an exceptional father to Enzo."

A lump in my throat rose quickly as I was taken by surprise by his heartfelt words. "Thank you, Dad," I managed to choke out.

"Furthermore," he continued, "there are a few things I mean to go over with you when you have time. I just wanted to give you the broad brush view of what's coming so that we can discuss things when you're back from your honeymoon."

I looked at my father, still confused. "What do you mean, Papà? I'm not sure I understand."

Papà looked at me straight in the eye. "I want you to know that you are still the heir to all of my businesses, and they will always be yours to do with as you please."

"Dad… this is unexpected," I said, searching his face for any hint of insincerity. But there was none – only genuine love and pride looking back at me.

"It must be clear to you that you're the only suitable heir. You have the business smarts and," he chuckled, "let's face it, the smarts, period. I have provided for your sisters in my will. They will need it, as they don't seem to have much ambition for anything except furthering their own causes. I won't force them to change. I see that they need to figure their lives out for themselves. Soon, the beauty of youth will fade, and they will need more. By then, I hope they can forge their way with the funds I will provide them."

He paused, clearly noticing my surprise.

"I intend to work until my dying breath. And then, you may operate the businesses as you wish. As it stands, they practically run themselves. I have a great team and I really only go in there for the espresso." He winked. "Even if you sell them after my death, you have my blessing. I am satisfied with my life. I will spend a few years, God willing, making up for my sins, but I have new meaning for the remainder of my years. And that is to live a good and honorable life."

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