Chapter 16 - THE REUNION
A month later, the first snow of the season dusted the city of Chicago.
Instead of a grand, lavish wedding covered by magazines, we chose a quiet, private ceremony at a small glass chapel overlooking Lake Michigan.
The guests were few—my sister, Marco, a few trusted colleagues, and the two most important people in our universe.
Maya wore a delicate white lace dress with a crown of winter berries, looking like a little snow princess as she walked down the aisle tossing flower petals. Leo walked beside her, wearing a miniature black tuxedo that matched his father's, carrying the ring box with immense pride and seriousness.
And then, it was my turn.
I wore a simple ivory silk gown that flowed around my ankles, carrying a bouquet of white roses and eucalyptus. As the chapel doors opened, my eyes locked onto Luca standing at the altar.
He took my breath away.
In his tailored tuxedo, tall and regal, he looked like the titan the world feared. But as his eyes met mine, tears glistened in his dark amber eyes. He looked at me not as a billionaire, but as a man receiving a miracle he knew he didn't deserve.
When I reached the altar, Luca took my hands. His palms were warm and steady.
"Seven years ago, I thought I lost the light of my life," Luca spoke, his deep voice carrying through the quiet chapel, echoing softly against the glass walls. "I learned the hard way that power means nothing without the person you love to share it with. Nia, you taught me how to be human. You gave me two beautiful children, and you gave me a second chance when I deserved none. I promise to honor you, protect you, and love you through every storm and every sunrise for the rest of my days."
I smiled through my tears, my voice steady and filled with love.
"Luca, we walked through the darkest shadows to get back to this moment. I forgive the past, I cherish our present, and I give you my whole heart for our future. You are my home, Luca. Always."
"By the power vested in me," the officiant smiled warmly, "I now pronounce you husband and wife again. You may kiss your bride."
May you like
Luca didn't hesitate. He pulled me into his arms, lifting me slightly as his lips met mine in a deep, passionate kiss that sealed our vows under the falling snow outside.
Cheers erupted from the small congregation. Leo and Maya ran up to us, hugging our legs, laughing joyfully. Luca set me down, wrapped one arm around my waist, and scooped both children up into his other arm, pulling all three of us into a warm, unbreakable embrace.
