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She opens it, revealing Genesis and Romero, with little Enzo in Romero’s arms.
The moment my son sees me, his eyes light up. He starts squirming in Romero’s grip, eager to get down. As soon as his feet touch the ground, he’s toddling toward me, his chubby arms outstretched. I can’t help but smile when I see him—barely a year old and already the spitting image of his father. Angelo dotes on him, and Lou is the proudest big sister I’ve ever seen.
Genesis watches him go, shaking her head. “Christ, babies are a lot of work. No wonder I don’t want one.”
Romero smirks, nudging her in the side. “You sure about that? I thought our practice sessions might’ve changed your mind.”
I can’t help but laugh at Genesis’ scandalized expression. “Alright, you two. No violence on my wedding day, got it?”
Before I can scoop up my son, Lou intercepts him, swinging him into her arms. His delighted squeals fill the room, and I feel my heart swell with joy.
“Look, Enzo!” Lou coos. “Doesn’t Mommy look beautiful?”
Enzo babbles in response, reaching out to pat my dress with his tiny hands.
“Careful, baby,” I warn gently. “We don’t want to mess up Mommy’s dress, do we?”
Lou expertly maneuvers him away from my gown. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ve got this. Big sister duty and all.”
I watch as she bounces him on her hip, marveling at how natural she is with him. The love between them is palpable, healing parts of my heart I didn’t even know were still bruised.
“You know,” Shawn says, coming up beside me, “if someone had told me two years ago that this is where we’d end up, I would’ve thought they were crazy.”
I nod, feeling tears prick at my eyes. “It’s more than I ever dared to hope for.”
Genesis approaches, her usual sarcasm softened by a genuine smile. “You clean up nice, Fee. Angelo’s not going to know what hit him.”
“Speaking of Angelo,” Romero chimes in, “you should’ve seen him earlier. I’ve never seen the boss so nervous. It’s kind of hilarious.”
“He’s currently getting a pep talk from Jimbo,” Genesis says helpfully, eyeing Enzo who is now trying to climb up on top of a chair with Lou’s help. “Not that he doesn’t want to marry you, but Jimbo’s giving him advice on the finer points of marriage.”
I feel a flutter in my stomach at the thought of Angelo waiting for me at the altar. After everything we’ve been through, this day feels like a miracle.
Shawn glances at her phone, her face lighting up. “Fee, we just got another order. This might be our biggest yet!”
I can’t help but smile. Our new boutique, Phoenix Rising, has been thriving. While I couldn’t bear to return to Perfezione after everything that happened, this new venture with Shawn has been a blessing. We’ve maintained our commitment to helping the downtrodden, while also attracting high-end clients. Our first year has been more successful than we ever dreamed.
Another knock at the door interrupts my thoughts. Romero opens it, revealing Zip standing there, looking dapper in his tuxedo. His eyes crinkle with joy as he sees me.
“Ready to walk your girl down the aisle, old man?” Romero teases.
Zip chuckles. “Who are you calling old? I could still take you in a fight.”
As he steps into the room, I feel tears welling up in my eyes. Seeing him here, healthy and happy after his full recovery from Gino’s attack, fills me with gratitude.
“You look beautiful,Tesoro,” Zip says, his voice thick with emotion.
I embrace him, careful not to wrinkle my dress. “I’m so glad you’re here, Nonno.”
As we hug, I think about how much has changed. Even my mother, Cher, has made efforts to mend our relationship. Her apology and the donation to our business were unexpected but welcome steps. While I’m not ready to fully forgive her, I’m willing to give our relationship a chance.
Shawn claps her hands, bringing me back to the present. “Alright, everyone. It’s showtime!”
Genesis and Romero take their leave, and I take a moment to reflect on the journey that brought us here.
Two years ago, I was a single mother, struggling to keep my shop afloat and protect my daughter from dangers I could barely comprehend. Now, I’m about to marry the man who turned our world upside down in the best possible way. We have a beautifulson, a thriving business, and a family that extends far beyond blood.
Lou approaches me, little Enzo still on her hip. “Mom? Are you okay? You look like you might cry.”
