Page 72 of Forgetting the Enemy
I shake my head. “No, wait.” I scan the room, and my eyes finally see him. Oh my God, he’s magnificent. Michael is standing at the balcony dressed in a black tux, tie, and tails. I never believed he could look more handsome than he already does, but today, he’s proven me wrong. My eyes meet his, and I know without a doubt that now I’m ready.
I whisper to Vince, “I’m ready,” and we walk down the aisle.
When we get to the balcony, Father Paul says, “Who gives this woman to this man?”
Vince replies, “I do.” He takes my hand and gives it to Michael, who takes it and gently pulls me toward him.
When I get right next to him, he leans closer and says, “In all the wonders I have ever seen, seeing you walk down this aisle is by far the most beautiful. You’re beautiful.”
Father Paul proceeds with the ceremony and then he finally says the words we both have been waiting for. “You may now kiss your bride.”
Michael turns toward me and grins the most devilish grin I have ever seen. He comes in close and kisses me tenderly, and although we both want more, we keep it clean for our audience.
“What God has joined together, let no man put asunder,” Father Paul says. He directs us to turn around to face our guests. “I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vitali.”
Everyone claps as Mendelssohn’sWedding Marchbegins to play, and Michael and I walk back down the aisle together.
The guests walk out soon behind us, and we greet each and every one of them as they pass by. One of the couples I did not recognize approaches, and the man gives Michael a hug.
“Congratulations, son. My best wishes to you both,” he says.
“Thank you, Santino.” He turns toward me and says, “Zaira, I’m not sure you remember him, but this is Santino Magnano and his wife, Lucia.”
I hold my hand out to shake his and say, “I’m sorry I don’t remember you, but thank you for being here today.”
He takes my hand and kisses it and smiles. His wife nods and smiles politely, and they walk on. Over the next few minutes, I am introduced to Constantine and Rose Romano and three guards I did not have the pleasure of meeting before: Augie, Gio, and Benny. I smile and greet everyone graciously.
After all the guests are received, Jasmine has everyone escorted to Lago for dinner. After we have some pictures taken, we join our guests in the restaurant and proceed to have a lovely dinner. I notice they are serving the Vitali vintage,Montepulciano d’ Abruzzo,imported from Italy.I wonder when Michael arranged for that, but it is definitely a nice touch.
Once our meal has been cleared and the cake has been cut, Michael leans toward me and says, “I missed you last night.”
I feel myself blush as his breath tickles my skin.
“After cake, let’s make our exit. I’m done waiting,” he whispers and then he kisses me right behind my ear. I want to say the hell with cake, but I know it would be rude to just up and leave before the cake is served.
As the wait staff begins serving the cake, I look out at our guests. I could not have asked for a more perfect and beautiful wedding.
