Chapter 9 - A Garden Wedding in the Spring
The wedding was not a grand, ostentatious affair filled with society elites, politicians, and syndicate bosses.
Instead, it was held on a bright, crisp spring afternoon in the sprawling garden behind the Costa estate, overlooking the blossoming orchards and the gleaming expanse of the Hudson River.
Only those who truly mattered were in attendance.
Mrs. Gable stood near the front holding a bouquet of white lilies, openly wiping a tear from her cheek. Chef Louis had personally prepared a modest, exquisite feast, smiling proudly as the guests arrived.
And the children were front and center.
Julian stood proudly as Leonardo’s best man. Bianca wore a stunning pale blue dress, walking arm-in-arm with Samuel as they scattered rose petals along the stone pathway. The twins and Theo laughed excitedly near the front row.
As Abigail walked down the garden path, wearing an elegant, simple ivory dress that complemented her warm grace, Leonardo felt his breath catch in his throat. He wore a tailored dark suit, his usual cold, impenetrable expression entirely replaced by a look of profound, humbling awe.
When she reached him, Leonardo took her hands in his. They were warm, strong, and steady.
The justice of the peace read the vows, but neither of them needed a script to know what they were promising. They were promising to rebuild, to heal, and to protect the fragile, beautiful family they had created together.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the officiant smiled. "You may kiss the bride."
May you like
Leonardo lifted her veil, and as their lips met, a thunderous cheer erupted from the children. Samuel and Theo threw their arms in the air, while Bianca beamed with tears in her eyes.
It wasn't just a marriage between a powerful man and a woman from Ohio. It was the healing of a broken home, bound together by love, courage, and a simple home-cooked meal.
