Chapter 8 - The Queen of DeLuca House
The wedding of Roman DeLuca and Claire Bennett was not a secret underworld affair, nor was it a cold, high-society spectacle.
It was held on the grand south lawn of the estate, under a massive white canopy dripping with fresh white roses, peonies, and twinkling fairy lights.
Over two hundred guests attended—including community leaders, local business owners, household staff who sat in the front rows as honored guests, and Roman’s loyal family capos.
When the string orchestra began to play the bridal processional, the crowd stood up in awe.
Lily led the way down the floral aisle, walking slowly and proudly with a carved mahogany cane, wearing a soft pink dress, her face glowing with triumph.
And behind her came Claire.
She was breathtaking. Her gown was a custom silk crepe creation that celebrated every lush, lovely curve of her body—a sweetheart neckline, off-the-shoulder lace sleeves, and a long, dramatic train that flowed behind her like sea foam. Her dark hair was styled in soft waves, pinned with pearl clips, and her skin radiated a healthy, beautiful glow.
At the end of the aisle stood Roman.
He wore a dark velvet tuxedo, his eyes locked onto Claire as she walked toward him. A tear glinted at the corner of his eye—a sight that left his hardened lieutenants whispering in disbelief.
When Claire’s hand was placed in his, Roman squeezed her fingers gently, leaning down to whisper, "You are the most beautiful woman who has ever lived."
"I love you," Claire whispered back.
The ceremony was brief, simple, and deeply emotional. When the priest pronounced them husband and wife, Roman didn't wait. He pulled Claire into his arms, lifting her slightly off her feet, and kissed her with a fierce, possessive passion that drew wild cheers and applause from the entire crowd.
Chef Alvarez and his team brought out a spectacular five-tier cake decorated with sugar flowers, while Mrs. Patel wiped happy tears from her eyes in the front row.
During the reception, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and violet, Roman took Claire’s hand and led her to the center of the dance floor.
As they swayed slowly to a classic Italian love song, Roman held her close, his chin resting against her soft hair.
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"Look at them, Claire," Roman murmured, glancing around the room at the smiling faces of the staff, the family, and Lily, who was laughing with Dr. Harrison by the cake table. "You changed this entire family. You brought light into the dark."
Claire looked up into his handsome face, her heart full to bursting. "We did it together, Roman."
