Chapter 9 - The Legacy of Steel
Six months later, the spring sun shone brightly over a private estate in Long Island.
The sprawling property, surrounded by high stone walls and lush green gardens, overlooked the blue waters of the Sound. It was Masimo’s wedding gift to me—a place far enough from the city for Leo to run free in the grass, yet secure enough that no threat could ever touch us.
The lawn was filled with white roses and elegant ivory marquees.
I stood before a tall gilded mirror in the estate’s master suite, adjusting the lace veil of my wedding gown. The dress was a masterpiece of silk and hand-stitched pearl embroidery, hugging my curves and trailing behind me in a soft, elegant train.
Rosa stepped up behind me, wiping a tear from her eye as she fixed a stray strand of my hair.
“You look like an angel, my dear,” Rosa whispered softly in Italian.
“Thank you, Rosa,” I smiled, looking at her reflection. “Is Leo ready?”
“He’s downstairs with Carlo,” she chuckled. “He’s currently trying to convince Carlo that ring bearers are allowed to wear superhero capes with their tuxedos.”
I laughed, feeling a deep, profound joy fill my heart.
A quiet knock sounded at the door, and Masimo stepped into the room.
He wore a pristine black tuxedo, looking impossibly handsome and imposing. He stopped in his tracks when he saw me, his slate-grey eyes softening into pure wonder.
“Rosa,” Masimo said softly, never taking his eyes off me. “Give us a moment, please.”
Rosa smiled warmly and slipped out of the room, closing the door behind her.
Masimo walked slowly across the plush carpet until he stood right in front of me. He reached out, his large, warm hand gently lifting the lace veil from my face.
“You are the most beautiful sight I have ever seen,” he murmured, his voice husky with emotion.
“You don't look too bad yourself, Don Costa,” I teased softly, wrapping my arms around his neck.
Masimo pulled me close, resting his forehead against mine. “Four months ago, I thought my life was complete. I had power, wealth, and territory. But until you walked into the Continental carrying your sleeping son, I was living in the dark.”
“You gave me a life, Masimo,” I whispered, looking into his eyes. “You gave Leo a father.”
“And you gave me a heart, Alessandra,” he replied softly.
May you like
He took my hand, kissing the back of my fingers where the emerald ring sparkled in the sunlight.
“It’s time,” he murmured.
