Chapter 18
Ethan and Alex's conversation ends,
Ethan opens the door and see that Ren waiting outside.
Ren's smile is confident and unyielding,
While Alex remains visibly sad.
Ren's younger brother and sister step forward,
Gently taking Alex by the arms.
Isabella De Luca
*Cheerfully*
Isabella De Luca
Come on, Alex. We need to get you ready.
Marco De Luca
*Encouragingly*
Marco De Luca
It’s time to become part of our family.
Alex looks back at Ethan,
His eyes filled with a mix of fear and resignation.
His expression determined.
Ethan Carter
(To Ren) I'll do anything to protect my brother. This isn't over.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Calmly)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
If you had never shown up in front of me, nothing would have happened.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
Your brother is going to be my wife, and there's nothing you can do about it.
But before he can respond,
Alex is led away by Ren's siblings.
Ethan watches his brother disappear down the hallway.
Ren and Alex are brought to the stage,
Both dressed in elegant wedding attire.
Ren's confident demeanor contrasts sharply with Alex's sadness.
Officiant
We are gathered here today to witness the union of Ren and Alex.
Officiant
They have chosen to make their vows before us all.
Ren and Alex stand facing each other.
Ren’s eyes are intense, while Alex's gaze is downcast.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Softly, so only Alex can hear)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
Just follow my lead.
Dr. Alex Carter
(nods slightly)
Dr. Alex Carter
(Heart pounding)
The officiant begins the vows,
Ren and Alex repeat the words,
Their voices blending into a solemn harmony.
The moment feels surreal to Alex, each word a weight pressing down on him.
Officiant
By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you married. You may kiss.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(smirks)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Placing his thumb gently on Alex's lips)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(He leans in )
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(kiss)
making it appear real to everyone watching.
Dr. Alex Carter
(feeling a surge of defiance.)
Dr. Alex Carter
(bites Ren's finger)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(flinch slightly)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Whispering, with a pained smile)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
Careful, Alex.
The reception is in full swing.
Ren and Alex circulate among the guests,
Maintaining the facade of a happy couple.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(grip on Alex's hand is firm)
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Whispering to Alex) Smile, Alex. Everyone’s watching.
Dr. Alex Carter
(Through gritted teeth)
I hate this.
Lorenzo "Ren" De Luca
(Softly) You’ll learn to love it.
Alex's heart aches with the knowledge that this is his reality now.
He glances at Ethan, who stands on the outskirts,
His eyes filled with worry and determination.
Alex knows his brother won’t give up, and that thought brings a small measure of comfort.
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