Chapter 9
Six months later, the Moretti estate hosted a wedding that would be talked about in Chicago high society for decades.
The grand gardens were transformed into a sea of white roses, velvet canopies, and glittering crystal chandeliers. Over two hundred guests—including high-ranking city officials, allied business leaders, and family friends—filled the courtyard under a warm summer sun.
Standing at the floral archway was Alessandro, looking impossibly handsome in a tailored midnight-blue tuxedo. Beside him stood Marco as his best man.
Sitting in the front row, wearing a customized tuxedo collar, was Bruno. The massive Cane Corso sat perfectly still, his dark eyes watching the aisle with quiet dignity.
The violin orchestra began to play a soft, majestic melody.
Walking down the white aisle, throwing handfuls of pink rose petals from a silver basket, was four-year-old Emma, wearing a beautiful lace dress and a crown of tiny daisies.
And then came Sophia.
She was a vision of absolute grace in a floor-length gown of French silk, her long dark hair falling in soft waves over her shoulders. Her hazel eyes were bright with tears of happiness, her smile carrying the peace of a woman who had finally found her haven.
When she reached the arch, Alessandro took her hands in his. His grip was warm, solid, and protective.
The ceremony was brief but deeply moving. When the priest pronounced them husband and wife, Alessandro pulled Sophia into his arms, dipping her back slightly as he kissed her with a deep, consuming passion that made the entire gathering erupt into loud applause.
At the grand reception that evening, under a brilliant canopy of stars, Alessandro and Sophia stood on the second-floor balcony, watching their guests dance below.
Emma was currently fast asleep inside on a plush sofa, her small head resting against Bruno's side as the massive dog kept watch over her slumber.
Alessandro pulled Sophia close to his side, wrapping his arms around her waist as the cool summer breeze blew through her hair.
"Are you happy, my Queen?" Alessandro whispered into her ear.
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"I am happier than I ever thought possible, Alessandro," Sophia smiled, leaning back against his chest, her hands resting over his. "You gave us a home. You gave us safety."
"You gave me a heart, Sophia," Alessandro admitted softly, kissing her temple. "Before you and Emma came through those gates, this house was just a fortress of stone and iron. Now... it's a family."
