Entwined Hearts | Heart Series Book I |
Chapter 1: Fed Up
I'm fed up. I'm tired of all this bullshit, I'm tired of these people telling me how to dress, how much to eat, what to eat, how to act. Like who do these people think they are, do they think they are God, because God is the only one who can control my life. "Ugh"... I don't know how my sister did this, how she dealt with these stupid, entitled, big heads, small dicks human beings. Because whatever weed she was taking to stay sane I think I need it, and for your Information I don't do drugs but if I did, they probably would pump every drug out of me, trust me they would.
You must be wondering who these spawns of the devil are. Well, the sons and daughters' of a bitch are my In-laws, actually my soon-to-be in-laws.
Now you must be wondering how my sister had to deal with them, well that's because she was married to the same guy I'm marrying right now, well not right now, but you get the gist,, and no I did not steal him away from her. No, actually she left him to be with her lover and now I'm being forced to marry him. Why? You ask, because my dad is a pussy, a pussy with a small brain, who can't find another way to stop this family from killing us other than marrying one of his daughters away. Can you believe that bastard! "Ugh".... I might just kill myself. I'm kidding, I would never rid the world of one of its most beautiful treasures.
I know you all want the background on how this all happened. So let's sit down and let me give you the run down, because I really need a let-out. ... It all began from a little child, yes a little child, my sister was betrothed to a boy, Chase Gambino. Both of our families are in the mafia, and we have been in a little feud for a while, when i say feud I actually mean a full out war, we absolutely hated each other.
But after a while both families realized that this "war" was a waste of money, resources, and time. So we decided to have a truce, which ended in a marriage, because that is the only way in the world to have a truce and join two families, note the sarcasm, and that is how my sister got betrothed to the Gambino son.
Now how does this have to do with me? How did I get into marrying the same guy? I know you're wondering all these questions. And I will answer all your questions.
Well the reason I'm marrying Chase Gambino is because my sister ran away. Why? Because I told her to, shocking I know. But it's not like I outright told her to leave him I just gave her advice because she asked. I kinda went a little like this.
I called out as I walked into my room.
Venice Lucchese
CHANN-... AHHH
Venice Lucchese
*hold chest & breathing hard*
Bitch you scared me
Venice Lucchese
What are you doing in my room🤨
Venice Lucchese
Channel
*a little worried*
Venice Lucchese
Channel why are you crying
I ask, walking to her. I sit beside her, but she doesn't answer my question, she just continues to cry. Not knowing what to do I pull her to me and hug her.
Venice Lucchese
Channel what's wrong, whatever it is you can tell me, I'll always be here for you, please tell me what's wrong.
She sighs, and wipes her tears. She turns to me and I'm ready to hear an earful but all she says is....
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
I-I'm in love
*sniff*
Surprised, shocked, and confused I asked her to repeat.
Venice Lucchese
Say that again
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
I'm in lo-
*cut off*
Venice Lucchese
No I heard you the first time
Venice Lucchese
What do you mean you fell in love, did you fall in love with that guy you're betrothed to?
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
No
Venice Lucchese
Then who is it
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
It's one of the bodyguards
Venice Lucchese
Which bodyguard
She sighs and looks away. Like she's nervous to say who it is. She should be nervous because if dad finds out that man is dead.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
I-its Vincent
*whisper*
I say not being able to hear her.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
Vincent
Venice Lucchese
Doesn't he have a girlfriend that he is madly in love with.
She pauses as each word falls out of my mouth and when she goes to speak I interrupt her putting two and two together.
Confused by her restlessness I also paused, when it finally hit me. I gasp.
Venice Lucchese
OH MY GOD, YOU'RE THE GIRLFRIEND!
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
Shhh!
Venice Lucchese
Channel, you slept with your own bodyguard
Venice Lucchese
Good for you ☺️
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
It's not funny😳
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
Dad's going to kill us, and I will still have to marry chase.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
*sigh*
She sighs, something she does a lot when she's stressed.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
I've been training all my life to marry a guy I don't even love and the one I do love I can't even be with, like how is that fair.
She begins to cry and I begin to freak out. I don't do good with tears unless it's mine, I decided that instead of falling at trying to comfort her I will try to get to the bottom of why she's crying.
Venice Lucchese
Why are you crying Venice, you just told me you're in love, there's no reason to cry about that.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
*sniff*
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
I told Dad about my relationship with Vincent and how I don't want to marry Chase, but instead of at least hearing me out he freaked out and screamed at me then he moved up the wedding and fired Vincent.
Not shocked at all by my father's actions and now understand why Venice is so upset I decided to give her some advice, since I'm the big sister and all.
Venice Lucchese
Channel, if I were you I would have told Dad to fuck off and run away with my strong, handsome, hunky bodyguard and never look or come back.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
Really🤨
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
But how would I even pull it off
Venice Lucchese
Well isn't Vincent a bodyguard then he probably has a background in the army, so he should know how to hide from people, and how to get in and out of this fortress, and because dad only cares about the marriage going through he will just find someone else.
Channel Lucchese(Venice half sister)
Really, do you think I could pull it off
She asked, with a little too much enthusiasm, and a little confused I reminded her that this is all hypothetical.
Venice Lucchese
Sis, I love you but everything I said is hypothetical because even if you do get away the only other person to take you place is me, and I will not stand nor sit for the atrocity.
My sister pauses for a second before laughing and reassuring me that she was also kidding.
She knows that to ever try that plan would mean she has to be on the run all the time, and if ever found would put Vincent in trouble, probably a death sentence, at least I hoped she did.
Okay maybe I did outright tell her to run away, but you should also consider the fact that I reminded her how this would affect me and how that plan was hypothetical and a horrible plan.
But did she listen...noooo she just had to go and run away, now I'm stuck here with her insufferable in-law, who are now my in-laws, but you know what I don't blame her. If I was supposed to marry into that family I would run away too, even if I didn't have a lover.
And I know you want to ask about the groom to be, well.
Yeah that's pretty much it, he doesn't come around a lot and if he does he doesn't usually communicate with me. I guess that's a plus...right?
Chapter 2: The wedding and negotiation
I wake up to the screaming of my stepmother calling my name. I sit knowing she's about to bust in my room. Like why give me a door if you are not going to use it properly.
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
*bust into the room*
VENICE LUCCHESE, WAKE YOUR LAZY ASS U-
*Cut off*
she paused seeing that I'm already awake. And I decided that I don't have the energy to entertain her bullshit this morning. I ignore her and walk to the bathroom locking the door.
I finish my business and walk out and look up to see my stepmother still standing there with her hand on her hip.
This lady is starting to annoy the living hell out of me. can't she understand I don't want to talk to her. I thought our hate for each other was mutual but obviously it's not.
Venice Lucchese
Can I help you 🤨
I ask, getting a little pissed off, that I have to deal with her this early morning. Like does, she not understand that I already hate this day, I have to marry my sister's fiancée, I hate the family I'm marrying into, and she woke me up early, I'm not an early morning person.
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
You can at least act like you're excited to get married, and stop this little act of disappointment that your sister is gone🙄
I ask genuinely confused as to why I would be happy marrying my sister's fiancée who she didn't even love, might I point out. And if she couldn't love him how could I.
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
Don't act dumb, you know exactly what I mean you stole your sister's husband.
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
You told her to run away with that stupid boy just so you could marry into the Gambino family.
This lady must be losing brain cells ever since her daughter left because there is no way I would do something like that to my sister. And I make sure I tell her that when I correct her on her non-factual accusations.
Venice Lucchese
Listen stepmother, I know you must be devastated because Channel left, but do not blame me for your daughter's decisions.
I say, walking away, ready to leave, but I decided to let her have it because I will not be disrespected, especially by the likes of her.
Venice Lucchese
And I don't know how you do it on your side of the family but on my mother side we don't hurt our family, and we don't steal each other's husbands.
Venice Lucchese
Not even for money.
I leave the room, already tired of everyone's bullshit. Walking downstairs I ran into someone. The only person I didn't want to see today, other than my stepmother, my father.
Calvin Lucchese
What are you doing down here. Shouldn't you be upstairs getting ready for the wedding.
He asked with his cold tone, a tone he has been using since my mom died.
Venice Lucchese
Trying to get some food into me before you sell me off
Calvin Lucchese
Venice, getting married is not being sold away
Venice Lucchese
It is when you are being forced
Calvin Lucchese
If you didn't want to be married into the Gambino family you shouldn't have told your sister to leave with that man
I don't know why everyone thinks I told Channel to run away, but I'm pretty sure it had something to do with my stepmother, you would think that my father would believe me over his wife but come on we're talking about my father here, he would never put his family over his money or Mistress.
Venice Lucchese
I didn't tell Cha-
*cut off*
I interrupt myself, finding it useless to even try to defend my case, knowing he won't listen anyway.
I walk away from my sperm donor and walk into heaven, our kitchen.
Not wanting to cook I found a maid and asked her what was on this morning's breakfast menu.
maid
Sorry milady, the mistress told me to not let you eat anything in preparation for your wedding.
Venice Lucchese
Is that lady delusional, I could fucking faint at the alter and if that happen there will be no wedding
*mutter under breath*
I was not dealing with this today especially when I'm already furious, but if this bitch wanted a fight then that is exactly what she is going to get.
Venice Lucchese
Okay, can I at least have some water
I ask not hiding my annoyance
She says, as fear ripples through her. Which made me feel terrible. I didn't mean to lash out at her, it's just my life is really hard at the moment. Maybe I need to blow off some stress.
I grabbed the water she handed me, and with a “Thank You” I walk away not looking back.
Too tired and hungry, I walk back up the stairs to take a shower and prepare to leave for the hotel where I will be pampered and sold off (married off as my father says).
Chase Gambino
I'm on my way to the meeting, and I'll be at the hotel as soon as the meeting is over.
Chase Gambino
So, There's no need to worry.
I say trying to calm him down.
Antonino Gambino
What do you mean not to worry, your fiancée ran away, because of some unknown reason, and you are marrying her sister who seems to have some screws loose.
Antonino Gambino
She is not even qualified to be part of the Gambino family, your mother's words, not mine, and you tell me to not be worried.
My dad replies in an increasing voice, by the time he's done with his mini speech he might as well be yelling at the top of his lungs.
Chase Gambino
Father, calm down before you have a heart attack. I know what I'm doing when it comes to this marriage, plus we need this. So, calm down and get ready to see me at the altar, and don't be late to my wedding.
Antonino Gambino
Okay bye, ti amo, figlio mio.(Okay bye, I love you, my son.)
Is the last thing he is able to say before my mother comes and bombard me with her own questions and concerns about the wedding.
Finally, leaving one of my many boring meetings, I walk into my office telling my secretary, Nina, to clear the rest of my day. I sit down releasing a long tired breath, thinking about taking a quick nap before that tiring wedding I need to go to.
Laughing at myself when I remind myself that it's my wedding I'm going to. It's actually shocking that I'm getting married, what's not shocking is the fact that it is arranged.
Now don't get me wrong I don't hate the idea of getting married. I just don't think it's for me.
Relieving myself of my thoughts, I walk over to my little office bar and make myself a cup of whiskey.
Just as I'm swallowing the Auburn liquid down and relishing in the calming burning sensation I feel two small delicate hands wrap around me.
Nina (chase secretary)
Guess who
*sultry voice*
I hear Nina say on my neck.
Chase Gambino
Nina, what are you doing.
I ask, not because this is the first time we have messed around, but rather because I didn't ask for her or for this.
Nina (chase secretary)
I just wanted to remove some of the burden that is weighing on your mind.
She responds with her sexy voice, which she knows I adore. And even though I would not mind loosing a little stress I can't, not only am I getting married but if I don't leave now I will be late, and I don't want to hear an ear full from my parents.
I check at my watch and say
Chase Gambino
Sorry, Nina. I don't have the time. I'm getting married and I have to leave.
Nina (chase secretary)
Right now
*pouts*
I turn to face her again and give her a kiss, indicating that we may finish this later. I then move around her and grab my coat.
Chase Gambino
I'll call you later, okay
she smiles, knowing that I will follow my promise. She nods and kisses my cheek before turning and leaving.
* 1 Hour later - at the wedding venue*
As I step out of the shower, I hear a knock on the door.
I ask as I make my way toward the door.
unknown
It's your long lost brother
Chase Gambino
I don't have a brother
I reply, already knowing who it is.
unknown
I'm surprised dad didn't mention me, as you mention that we haven't met. But I'd like to know more about you.
Chase Gambino
Well, please go; I don't want to get to know you.
unknown
Man, open the door; you know it's me.
I laugh as I open the door looking at my stupid best friend.
Chase Gambino
What do you want, Augie.
I say knowing he despises the name.
August Vitiello
Don't call me that, you know how I hate that childish nickname.
Chase Gambino
So, what do you want
August Vitiello
You're dad told me to check on you
Chase Gambino
Is he scared that I might run away too.
August Vitiello
*chuckle*
he did seem worried
Chase Gambino
well, you can tell to rest easy I'm not going anywhere.
August Vitiello
In other words you want me to leave
Chase Gambino
*smile*
I knew you would understand
August Vitiello
* stand up*
Okay well see you at the altar with your mysterious wife.
Chase Gambino
If she doesn't run away
August Vitiello
*laugh*
Yes, I believe that would unleash its own personal hell on our family.
Chase Gambino
*laugh*
It would
I eventually leave my room. Upon checking the time on my watch, I discover that the ceremony is in three hours. I chose to head down to the bar since I had some free time. And maybe with a glass of bourbon in hand, I can achieve some peace.
I sit at the bar. And try to get the bartender, but he was preoccupied with something or someone. I waited a few minutes just in case it was another customer that was taking up all of his time. But after 20 minutes I realized I'm not the only one waiting on this incompetent bartender.
I usually don't wait on people. But I tried to be nice, you know since it's my wedding day. However, time is money and this man is wasting my time and money. Who the fuck even hired him.
And who the fuck is he even talking to. It better be some big shot, or I'm putting a bullet in his head for wasting my time on some stupid shit.
I sigh trying to calm myself down. My father would freak out if I started a ruckus, and I was not going to subject my men to dealing with a body on such an important day.
I walk over to the other side of the bar and stand right in front of the bartender, behind a woman. Was this man slacking off, wasting my time and others to talk to a woman. Yeah. I'm definitely going to put a bullet in his head.
I clear my throat to get their attention.
The bartender looks up at me in annoyance, and I mirror it back at him, the audacity.
unknown
Bartender: can I help you 🤨
Is this man crazy I think he forgot he was at work. But I compose myself and control my anger, annoyance, and want to kill him at bay.
Chase Gambino
Yes, I'll have a glass of your finest bourbon, Neat.
I spoke with a frigid, disdainful tone, dripping with anger, through clenched teeth. It wasn't necessarily to intimidate him, although it might have had that effect, but mainly because I was furious.
unknown
Bartender: right away sir. Sorry for the delay.😅
The bartender leaves in a hurry to fetch my order, to my relief, I decided to sit in the empty seat next to the women instead of walking back to my previous seat.
After a few minutes the bartender returned with my order in one hand and in his other he held a glass of a fruity drink, you could tell it was very sweet.
He hands me my drink, and then the lady beside me her drink with a napkin before walking away with a smile.
What was this man even proud of: doing his job, he did that poorly as well, or was he proud that he wasted people's time. "Whatever" I think and decide to enjoy this drink and relax for once on this day.
The woman says, with a soft voice. Her voice was sweet but not the one that made you want to rip out her throat because it's so annoying. No, her voice was beautiful, something I could listen to all day non-stop.
unknown
For getting that bartender away from me. He was really annoying, and I just wanted to have some time to myself.
unknown
Today has been really stressful for me. So, thank you.
she says while turning to me and smiles.
Chase Gambino
Then why come to a bar if you're looking for peace and quiet.
unknown
For a drink. Why else would a person come to a bar.
She says in a "matter of fact" tone. Making me laugh at her annoyance. Plus I shouldn't be judging her because I came to the same bar looking for the same peace.
Chase Gambino
What's your name.
She says in that soft angelic voice
Charlene
Are you here for the wedding that's happening in a few hours.
Chase Gambino
I'm actually the groom.
I say. I felt there was no reason to hide the fact that I was getting married. The truth is that I was getting married, and as lovely as she was, I had no intention of spending tonight with anyone other than my soon-to-be wife. I had some morals, and it would be inappropriate to be with someone on the day of our wedding.
Charlene
I guess I should be giving you my congratulations.
having nothing to say I nod and smiled at her comment.
Charlene
I heard the bride is a little wild, is it true. And I say this in no offense just curious.
Chase Gambino
You know curiosity is what killed that cat.
Charlene
Yes, but satisfactory brought it back. So please satisfy my curiosity and answer my question.
She says like she is dying and I chuckle at her dramatic personality.
Chase Gambino
Well to answer your question I wouldn't know because we haven't met yet.
Chase Gambino
Yeah, our marriage was arranged.
Charlene
I always thought those types of marriages were only found in books.
*whisper*
She tries to say under her breath, but sadly I heard her loud and clear. And It made me question if she was from the world I was from or just an ordinary person.
Chase Gambino
What family are you from.
Charlene
What do you mean🤨
Maybe she wasn't in the mafia world, but then how would she know about the wedding.
She made me curious about her true identity and a little on edge. How could she get information on something so closed off? I didn't even know about my own wedding until a month before, and that was only because my father told me. So, How does she know about the wedding when she is not a familia.
I say laughing it off, to not bring any suspicion.
Chase Gambino
well, I think it's time I get back. Don't want anyone to worry.
i say before she can even ask anymore questions or reply. I look down at my watch stand and take the last sip of my drink. And walk away without another word.
I pull out my phone and dial August number.
Chase Gambino
Hey, could you look up someone for me.
August Vitiello
Yeah sure, just give me a name.
Chase Gambino
Her name is Charlene, red head probably 5'7 and was at the bar 10 minutes from now.
August Vitiello
Do you have a last name.
Chase Gambino
No, but check the hotel bar footage and you will see what she looks like.use that as you reference.
August Vitiello
Man, why do you always give me the long, hard, and tedious jobs.
*pout*
Chase Gambino
Because you're the best.now you better find her by this time tomorrow.
August Vitiello
Rude
*whisper*😮💨
I put my phone back in my back pocket, pushed Charlene to the back of my mind, and focus on meeting my mysterious and maybe crazy wife.
Chapter 3: The wedding and negotiation pt.2
I repeat, I'M BEING DRAGGED
To where? I don't know. My stepmother just came in with a woman and told me to go with her, and when I asked why, as nicely as I could, the lady took my hand and started DRAGGING me somewhere.
Venice Lucchese
Where are you taking me
Because she refused to answer, I dug my heels into the ground, causing her to abruptly stop and nearly fall over.
Venice Lucchese
I'm going to ask one more time. Where the fuck are you taking me?
Venom and anger dripped from my words and I could clearly see how it affected her
unknown
I'm taking you to help you get ready for your wedding.
Venice Lucchese
Wait, wait, wait. Am I off track here? I thought I was supposed to get ready in the previous room.
unknown
Yes you were, However Mrs. Lucchese had her own preparation for you.
She looked at me with caution and annoyance, trying to gauge my reaction to their madam's orders.
unknown
Ms. Lucchese please come with me because if you don't, I will lose my job. And I really need this job.
Venice Lucchese
But if I come with you, won't I get in trouble for not wearing the proper clothes, the clothes that my in-laws chose, to the wedding.
Ah, here comes the classic stepmom theatrics, brewing up trouble like it's her specialty blend. Bet she's plotting to turn this whole thing into a circus act. Well, if that's her idea of a good time, she's welcome to it. But let's get one thing straight: I refuse to be the poster child for her questionable fashion choices.
Venice Lucchese
I'll go with you but only on one condition.
Venice Lucchese
You have to follow my orders in getting me ready not Mrs. Lucchese.
unknown
B-but I'll get in trouble for not foll-
*cut off*
Venice Lucchese
If I leave right now you will be in more trouble for not only being unable to get the job done but also for losing the bride.
Venice Lucchese
I wonder what would happen to your job then. And you know how these families are they take their business quite seriously, so I wouldn't be shocked if you went missing too.
She stares at me as she contemplates my bluff before falling for it. The familia would never kill someone over some small matter, but she would have lost her job, I just added the last part for some dramatic effects.
unknown
Okay, I'll do whatever you say just please come with me
Venice Lucchese
Lead the way
unknown
wedding planner: please, be ready to enter in 5 minutes.
Three hours have passed since I talked to charlene. Meaning the wedding is running late by 1 hour.
The wedding planner has been trying her best to distract the guest and avoid my parents for the time being.
I really don't know why we're running behind. But if it means I can be alone for a few more seconds, minutes, or even hours I'll be just fine.
Right now, I'm waiting in the foyer until I'm instructed to enter the sanctuary and wait at the altar.
Chase Gambino
Why are we running behind.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: u-um
Chase Gambino
What is the reason we are late.
I say, my voice deep and cold. My patience is wearing thin, and I swear someone may lose their job or even life if I have to wait another five minutes.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: t-the Bride is missing.
*whisper last part*
She says whispering the last part. Making me ask her to repeat herself.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: the Bride is missing
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: sir
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: Sir are you okay.
Did the stand-in- place bride also run away. Was I that scary that not one but two women did not want to marry me.
But At that moment, all I could do was laugh. Perhaps this was a sign that I shouldn't marry, I reasoned, but that wasn't what made me laugh. No, it was because I knew both families would go crazy. I guess August and my prediction were correct.
We should stop this mafia shit and think about becoming fortune-tellers.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: s-sir are you alright. I can call someone if needed.
My laughter stopped when the wedding planner said that, in a very worried tone. She probably thought I was crazy, and maybe I was. Putting an end to my laughter.
Chase Gambino
Are there any leads on the whereabouts of the bride.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: No we are still lo-
*cut off*
the wedding planner cuts herself off and listens to whoever is speaking to her in her earpiece.
she nods vigorously to whatever the person says. Joy and relief fall over her face as she thanks the person and tells them to bring someone immediately. Getting off the earpiece she turns her attention back to me.
Chase Gambino
What happened
Wedding Planner
wedding planner: they found her
*smiles*☺️
Chase Gambino
that's amazing. So, do I go in now, because I'm tired of waiting here.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planner: Could you please give us two minutes? After that, you can wait for your lovely wife at the altar.
Chase Gambino
Two minutes 😒
she nods and then runs off to tell people get more things ready or whatever a wedding planner does.
I sigh, letting out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. I'm not even sure why I'm becoming nervous now. I'm getting married, and I guess it's just started to sink in. And I'm marrying a complete stranger.
It's not like I want to marry someone I'm in love with, and then live happily ever after. I understand that in this world, such occurrences are rarer than diamonds. But I wanted to see the person before the altar, maybe even get to know her; that way, the first bride wouldn't have run away and the second wouldn't have gone missing on the wedding day.
But I can't undo the past, and I can't simply cancel the wedding; if I did, my father and mother would kill me. besides if she isn't bothersome, this could add some excitement to my life, or possibly peace.
Wedding Planner
WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN
Is the first thing I hear as in step into the foyer of the sanctuary. The next thing that falls out of the annoying, unknown woman's mouth is...
Wedding Planner
AND WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU WEARING
I sigh, realizing that this person works for my in-laws and is probably just trying to do her job, and my absence has probably jeopardized her job.
So, to ease her mind and set my plan in motion I respond with an apology and explanation.
Venice Lucchese
I'm so sorry. I was getting ready
Wedding Planner
Where were you getting ready, because you were not in the room we assigned for you.
Venice Lucchese
Well, someone came to my room with my stepmother, and they took me to get ready in another room.
*says innocently*
Venice Lucchese
Did I do something wrong
Wedding Planner
No and yes
Wedding Planner
But we can't do anything about it. You were SUPPOSED to wear something different and more tra-traditional.
Venice Lucchese
Do you want me to change
I say trying my best to replicate my sister's innocence and meekness.
Wedding Planner
We're already running behind. just get ready to walk down the aisle.
She says while walking, but turns back to say something else.
Wedding Planner
And don't forget to smile and enjoy yourself.
*smile😊*
I nod at her thoughtfulness and return the smile with one of my own.
She turns the corner and walks away, giving me a chance to breathe and relax for a brief moment. I look around the foyer and come across a mirror, which I decided to look at myself in.
When I looked in the mirror, I didn't see the same problem as the lady. I may not have looked traditional, but I was at least modest.
Did my dress show a little back and a little cleavage? Yes. But in my defense the dress my stepmother was going to choose was MUCH worse than what I'm wearing.
And I know my makeup is a little over the top, but I wanted to make my in-laws mad. Sue me!
The wedding planner comes back a few minutes later, but this time she's not alone. No, this time she is with my stepmother and mother-in-law
As they enter the room, I hear both ladies gasp in shock. I can't help but roll my eyes at the dramatic gasps from both ladies. It's like watching a poorly rehearsed soap opera scene. Seriously, could they get any more dramatic?
Mina Gambino
WHAT IN THE HELL ARE YOU WEARING
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
VENICE
My stepmother says trying to look like she has some authority over me.
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
don't mock me
Venice Lucchese
Then don't call my name for no reason
*roll eyes*
Mina Gambino
Is she always this disrespectful
*genuinely shocked*
Venice Lucchese
No, I'm only like this when someone disrespected me first.
*tight-lipped smile*
Venice Lucchese
As my mother always said, "respect is earned not given".
Lauren Lucchese (Venice stepmother)
...
Wedding Planner
We don't have time for this.
Wedding Planner
Whatever problem you have with what she's wearing or her can wait.
The wedding planner says looking at the two stunned ladies. Only to turn to me after saying her peace.
Wedding Planner
You should be out there in one minute. Please stand by the door. Your father will join you shortly to walk you down the alley.
I nodded at her and sauntered past the seething ladies towards the door. As I passed, their judgmental glares didn't escape me. Funny how they're worlds apart in style, yet quick to critique my outfit. They could use a mirror themselves; my mother-in-law's modest attire isn't doing her any favors, and my stepmother's attempt at provocative is just cringe-worthy, if not downright tacky.
Chase Gambino
Did they find the bride
*whisper*
I whisper to August, who recently made an appearance and is standing behind me because that is where the best man stood, hoping no one hears my question, knowing it will cause a gossiping commotion if any of these bored housewives find out.
He whispers back with a kiddy tone like a child in a candy store.
August Vitiello
She's stunning
*smile*
August Vitiello
Mhm
*nods*
August Vitiello
I didn't get a good look at her but from where I was standing she was beautiful.
His words brought some relief to my mind. Knowing I wasn't marrying an ogre gave me some hope. Hope that this marriage wouldn't go to all sh!t on my part.
August Vitiello
She may not be your type
Chase Gambino
What do you mean: she might not be my type.🤨
I said, truly confused as to why he'd think that. I'm not picky when it comes to my women as long as they are attractive they could be any race or "type".
Do I usually date models? Yes, but for this truce, for my family, I'll make an exception. Plus, if August said she was beautiful, I know she wasn't completely ugly. August and I might not have the same taste when it comes to women, but it came very close.
August Vitiello
Well... she's more on the cu-
*cut off*
August was cut off by the doors of the sanctuary opening, captivating everyone's attention, including mine. Whatever August had to say could wait.
As my soon-to-be bride walks in. Hand-in-hand with her father, a veil gracefully conceals her face from peering eyes. Adding an air of anticipation to her entrance.
But it didn't stop me from looking at what was not covered. I couldn't help but let my gaze linger as she walked closer and closer. The dress she was wearing hugged her perfectly and accentuated her curves beautifully, captivating my attention completely.
Seeing her voluptuous body, I understood why August thought she wouldn't be my "type," knowing that I was usually interested in women with long, thin legs and a slender figure who were basically model-like. Despite that, I couldn't drag my eyes away from this woman's body.
She may not have been thin, but with those curves and hips, it really didn't matter. And I kind of found her chubby figure attractive—even alluring. Making me wonder: What was it about her that had such a hold on me?
My gaze never left her, even as they walked closer and closer. I think she noticed because her body suddenly went a little tense. The thought that I was able to affect her body in such a way without even touching her did things to me. This may be the end of me.
August Vitiello
*tap his shoulder*
August Vitiello
Stop staring at her, you look like a pervert.
*chuckle*
Chase Gambino
Shut up
*looks away*
Suddenly, I had a fleeting thought that perhaps this marriage wouldn't be entirely dreadful.
I stood at the door waiting for my father to meet me, so we could get this day over with.
Because right now my feet hurt, I have a mild headache, and I am really dreading walking down this aisle. Like, couldn't we have a private marriage or maybe even a court marriage? Why some extravagant ceremony for a marriage that may not last?
But my words mean nothing right now (or ever in this world). I'm just a "little fragile woman" who is supposed to know her place. Not that I mind. Don't get me wrong. I know I'm worth more than a baby machine. I just don't mind people underestimating me. I believe that proving them wrong makes things more interesting. On the flip side, because they think I'm a damsel in distress, they do everything for me.
My train of thought is brought to an abrupt end when my father grabs a hold of my hand. He looks at me, and I can see the disapproval and disappointment. But he's been giving me these looks since my mother died, so I'm used to them.
Calvin Lucchese
What's on your face 🤨
Venice Lucchese
It's called make-up. a cosmetic product that women uses to enhance their beauty.
*sarcastic*
Venice Lucchese
Seriously? Your wife practically bathes in the stuff, I'm surprised you're so clueless about it.
Calvin Lucchese
*sigh*
You're lucky we are in public Venice.
*whisper*
Venice Lucchese
Or what? You're going to hit me, hmmm?
Venice Lucchese
Listen if you try anything this whole sh!t show will become a real SH!T SHOW.
Calvin Lucchese
You're more wicked than your mother, I don't even know how you're my daughter.
Venice Lucchese
And this is coming from the devil himself
*laugh*
Calvin Lucchese
Just shut up and put a smile on. When you get to the altar take your future husband's hand with a SMILE and do as the Father says. And you better not cry.
Venice Lucchese
*Chuckle*
Me cry? I stopped doing that years ago.
Calvin Lucchese
Hmm.
*nod*
He says nothing after that, only taking my hand and standing beside me. The doors open, catching everyone's attention.
I take a deep breath before exhaling and taking a step forward. My father gets the clue and walks in step with me.
We walk, walk, and walk some more. It feels like centuries before we even make it to the middle of the aisle. And I don't even know if we're in the middle because I have this stupid veil over my face.
The veil hides my face from everyone and everything, making me blind to the point where I have to literally hold on to my father for dear life. But it doesn't stop the feeling of eyes watching me, and there is this one person who is staring so damn hard that I can feel it in my soul.
FINALLY! We stop. We stop very abruptly, making me almost fall, but lucky for me, the grasp I had in my dad's hand made him pull me a little because if he hadn't, he would have been falling with me.
He gives my hand to another person's hand; remember, I can't see, and they exchange some words before my father walks away to take his seat.
The man, which I can tell is a man by the size of his hand and calloused fingers, and because no woman, at least all the women I know in this world, would never have calloused fingers, no, all their hands are manicured and painted to their husband's favorite color.
He walks up some steps and lightly tugs me to follow, which I try to do with this stupid veil over my face and almost tragically fails, but he holds my hand and keeps me in place. Which allowed me to notice how strong he was. I enjoyed strong men.
We walk up the podium, standing before everyone, and thing, my anxiety was going crazy. I take the man's hand and breathe, hoping time can pass by and I can skip this moment.
We face the priest and wait for the ceremony to begin.
Priest
We are gathered here today in the presence of family and friends to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, the joining of two families. Today, Chase and Venice embark on a journey together, bound by love and commitment.
The priest begins, prompting a snort in disbelief at his declaration of love. I can't help it. Not when I know this marriage is purely for convenience. isn't he a priest. Why is he lying, doesn't this go against his "priest's principles" to deceive.
I feel the man beside me squeeze my hand. I guess his way of telling me to shut up. Making me cough to try and cover up the snort. Knowing I failed when I hear someone right, of the mystery future husband, laugh.
Priest
Is there a problem Miss Lucchese.
*whisper*
He says, which causes another small laugh from the person beside my future husband.
Venice Lucchese
*shake head no*
No father
*whisper*
Priest
okay I'll resume
*whisper*
Priest
Chase and Venice you have come here today to enter into marriage.
Priest
Marriage is a sacred union, not to be entered into lightly, but thoughtfully and reverently. It is a bond founded on mutual respect, trust, and love.
Priest
In your journey together, always remember to be each other’s best friend, confidant, and partner in all of life's adventures. Through the joys and challenges you encounter, may you continue to nurture a love that makes both of you better individuals and a stronger couple.
His words hit me so hard that they felt like a physical slap to the face, making me want to breakdown. I'm not usually this emotional, but his words made me feel like a fraud, like a liar. Technically, I was, We both were. This marriage was not based on love; these beautiful words should go to a couple who deserves them, not us. I know his words weren't meant to hurt me, but I can't help it. The guilt came rushing in. And I couldn't stop thinking about how I shouldn't be here.
Maybe my stepmother is right. Maybe I did steal all this away from my sister. I don't deserve to be here, standing here beside this man. No, Channel deserves to be standing here, not me.
I'm brought out of my thoughts when I feel another squeeze on my hand AGAIN. By the end of this ceremony, I wouldn't be surprised if I had a bruise. Is that the only way he knows how to get my attention?
I say a little too loud gaining another chuckle from the mystery man's friend.
Priest
Could you please turn and face Chase.
Not being able to see I squeeze the hand I'm holding hoping he gets the hint. But nothing happens.
So, I try my best to whisper hoping no one, but chase, will hear me, even though you could hear a pin drop in this room.
Venice Lucchese
Chase
*whisper*
Chase Gambino
Hmm
*whisper*
Venice Lucchese
Can you help, I can't see in this veil
*whisper*
Venice Lucchese
*pout*
it's not funny I really can't see. You want me to step on your foot to demonstrate
*whisper*
Venice Lucchese
Or at least try to
*whisper*
Chase Gambino
Sorry
*whisper*
Chase Gambino
Give me your other hand and then just turn slowly
*whisper*
I follow his instructions making the process go much faster.
Priest
Okay
*say a little too loud*
Priest
Now Chase, repeat after me.
Priest
I, Chase Gambino, take you, Venice Lucchese, to be my wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.
Chase Gambino
I, Chase Gambino, take you, Venice Lucchese, to be my wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.
Priest
Now, miss Venice please repeat after me.
Priest
I, Venice Lucchese, take you, Chase Gambino, to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.
Venice Lucchese
I, Venice Lucchese, take you, Chase Gambino, to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.
Priest
*smile*
Okay, now may I have to rings
He says, and a few seconds later I hear little steps.
The priest takes the rings, and hands one to me and I'm guessing one to my mystery man.
Her ring: The Gambino heirloom
Priest
The wedding ring is a symbol of eternity. It is an outward sign of an inward and spiritual bond which unites two hearts in endless love.
Priest
Chase, as you place the ring on Venice’s finger, please repeat after me:
"Venice Lucchese, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness."
Chase takes my hand and slides the ring on, repeating the vows the priest has requested.
Chase Gambino
Venice Lucchese, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.
Priest
Venice, as you place the ring on Chase’s finger, please repeat after me:
"Chase Gambino, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness."
I do as Chase did and take his hand; it's a little more difficult because of the veil, but I find his hand with some assistance, slide the ring onto his finger, and repeat the priest's words.
Venice Lucchese
Chase Gambino, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness.
Priest
Now that Chase and Venice have pledged their love and commitment to each other, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
Priest
You may kiss the bride and seal your vows.
His words bring anxiety to my heart and make me realize how real this is. I'm about to become someone's wife and a complete stranger on top of that. I wasn't prepared for this. This is my first kiss, and it's going to be wasted just like that. I curse the day the channel left.
But when he lifts my veil and I see his beautiful face, all of my doubt, confusion, anger, and anxiety, which I was experiencing, disappear. We lock eyes, and I must say that his eyes are stunning, and it takes us a few moments to simply stand there and examine each other's faces. However, we are interrupted by a cough from the priest, telling us to continue on.
His fingers are the first thing I feel; the second are his eyes. They look me up and down, but not with judgment, but more with pleasure or maybe amusement. Do I amuse him? The next thing I feel is his lips, and God is soft!
His lips feel soft like a cloud, like the first time I ate cotton candy, and then they feel hot. Nothing spicy, nothing dramatic, just really warm, like comfort, and as his tongue slides into my mouth, they feel and taste sweetness, like I'm really eating cotton candy.
I melt into the kiss like butter on a hot pan. At the moment, I feel on top of the world, like I'm the only woman in the whole world, like I'm special, And it feels incredible. I think this man just shattered my world with single kiss.
The kiss is no longer the like 30 seconds before we reluctantly rip away from each other.
We're pushed off the altar with claps and congrats and sideways glances from envious mothers and daughters, and before I know it, we're at the reception. I don't even have time to enjoy my first kiss or Chase's lips.
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