Page 150 of Beneath the Shadows

Sunlight streams through the open windows, casting a soft glow over the room. Nicki’s curling my hair while Cecilia applies my makeup. Their voices blend in a comforting rhythm as they chat and tease me, filling the space with love and laughter.

Surrounded by the love of family, I’m overwhelmed by a joy I’ve never known. My heart feels lighter than it has in years, and a giddy kind of happiness bubbles up inside me. I allow myself to fully embrace it, without fear, knowing I belong here.

Nicki finishes the last curl and steps back, scanning my reflection with a satisfied smile. “We’ll give you a few minutes to get dressed,” she says.

I nod, watching them quietly slip out, the door clicking shut behind them.

The room falls silent, and I exhale, letting the peace of the moment wash over me. As I smooth my hand over the slight curve of my belly, a smile tugs at my lips. I pause, allowing myself to settle into this moment.

"Are you ready for this, little one?" I whisper, my fingers gently caressing my abdomen. "Your papa and I are about to be married."

A soft flutter, like the tiniest brush of wings, makes my breath catch. I close my eyes, overwhelmed by the connection I feel. "I hope you know how much you're already loved.” I press my hand a little firmer, treasuring this moment. “We’ll make sure you feel this kind of love every day. I promise."

I linger in the stillness before turning to the ivory dress hanging nearby. It’s simple yet breathtaking in its elegance.

The bodice is fitted, with intricate lace detailing along the neckline and sleeves, while the skirt flows gracefully, leaving room for my growing belly. The back dips slightly, revealing just enough to feel timelessly romantic.

I carefully slip it on, the lace brushing against my skin as I fasten the tiny buttons along the side. The fabric drapes perfectly, floating around me with each movement. I can’t help but smile as I catch my reflection in the mirror.

A soft knock on the door pulls me from my thoughts. “Come in,” I call.

Nicki steps inside, her eyes sweeping over me. “What do you think?” I ask, smoothing the lace on my dress.

She takes a moment before answering, her voice warm. “You look absolutely breathtaking, Alessia. I want you to know how proud I am of you and how grateful we are to have you in our lives. You’ve brought a light to Antonio that was missing for so long.”

Her words hit me straight in the heart, and I blink back tears. I reach out to hug her, feeling the bond between us deepen. “Thank you. For everything.”

“Oh, Alessia,” Cecilia gushes as she steps back into the room. “You’re absolutely glowing.”

“It’s perfect, isn’t it?”

“Antonio’s going to lose it when he sees you. We’ll be lucky if he doesn’t cart you away before the ceremony,” Cecilia says with a giggle.

I laugh, feeling my nerves ease just a little. “I’ll make sure to keep my running shoes hidden, just in case. Though I don’t think I’d mind if he did.” I give a playful shrug.

“I’d pay good money to see that.”

I laugh again. Cecilia’s right. Antonio hasn’t seen me since yesterday. Domenica and Nicki insisted on us following the tradition of not seeing the bride before the ceremony. We agreed, but we’ve also allowed for one modern twist.

I can’t wait to see him—well, almost see him.

After Cecilia puts the finishing touches on my makeup, we walk to the small room where Antonio’s waiting on the other side of the door. My heart races knowing he’s just feet away.

Cecilia carefully positions me to the side. “Okay, stay right here,” she says. Then, she opens the door just enough for my hand to slip through.

My fingers tremble slightly as I touch the wood, knowing Antonio is right there on the other side. A moment later, I feel his hand brush against mine.

“There,” Cecilia says softly, her grin fading into a tender smile as she steps back.

"Antonio," I whisper, my throat tight with emotion.

"Tesoro," he replies, his voice sending warmth rushing through me. “I feel like I’ve been waiting for this moment my entire life.”

Tears prick my eyes, but I blink them away.

He’s quiet for a moment, and I imagine him on the other side, just as overwhelmed as I am. When he speaks again, his voice is softer, filled with a depth that makes my chest ache.

“You’ve changed my life,tesoro. You took all my broken pieces and put them back together—you’ve made me whole. I can’t wait to start forever with you.”

---