Page 137 of Secret Baby for my Off-Limits Fiancé

I haven’t told anyone, not yet. But today, as I stand here in this dress, about to vow my life to the man I love, I know it’s time.

Before I can dwell on it further, the door to the bridal suite swings open. Mattia steps inside, his usual easygoing grin in place. “Am I interrupting?”

I shake my head, warmth spreading through me at the sight of my half-brother, the man who, in such a short time, has become such an important part of my life. “Not at all. Come in.”

Mattia has been my rock these past few months, especially after Silvano’s sudden passing from a stroke two months ago.

Grief is a strange thing.

I never knew my father, not in the way a daughter should, but his absence still left something hollow inside of me. Perhaps not for the man he was, but for the relationship we never had.

Through it all, Mattia and I found solace in each other, forging a bond neither of us expected.

And he didn’t just step up for me, he stepped up for the family.

After Silvano’s passing, Mattia made an unprecedented decision. Rather than sell the vineyard, he struck a deal with Valentino, one that combined the Salvatore and Marchetti legacies, creating something new and stronger.

The Salvatores retained ownership of their land, along with a thirty-percent share of profits, while the Marchettis brought their expertise and resources to expand production. It was the perfect compromise, one that honored both our families while ensuring a future for generations to come.

Mattia takes a step forward now, his eyes softening as he takes in the sight of me in my dress. “You look beautiful, Layla. Absolutely beautiful.”

Emotion clogs my throat. “Thank you. I’m really glad you’re here.”

His expression turns serious, and he offers me his arm. “I know I wasn’t there for you before. But I’m here now. Always.”

Tears threaten to well in my eyes, but I blink them away, giving him a small, grateful smile.

He squeezes my hand. “Now, let’s go. You’ve got a groom waiting for you.”

I take his arm, letting him guide me toward the door. The nerves that had fluttered in my stomach all morning are gone, replaced by something much stronger.

Anticipation.

Love.

The certainty that I am exactly where I’m meant to be.

As we reach the entrance to the aisle, my eyes immediately find him.

Valentino.

The sight of him steals the breath from my lungs.

He stands tall at the altar, dressed in a sleek, three-piece suit that fits him like a dream. His dark hair is slicked back, but a single strand has rebelliously fallen loose over his forehead. His strong jaw is set with quiet confidence, his broad shoulders squared, but it’s his eyes that undo me.

Dark, molten brown, filled with nothing but love.

Beside him, Vincent stands proudly in his tiny tuxedo, his face beaming with pure joy. He looks so much like his father that my heart aches.

I smile as I meet Valentino’s gaze, and for the first time in a long time, I don’t feel any fear.

Just love.

The music starts, and Mattia and I begin our slow walk down the aisle.

With each step, Valentino’s expression shifts, his lips twitching, his eyes shining, his entire body vibrating with barely restrained emotion.

When we finally reach the end, Mattia gently places my hand in Valentino’s. “Take care of her.”

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