radicalducati Chapter 159
Chapter 159
The rain had cleared just in time for the ceremony. The dark clouds drifted away, leaving a soft golden glow as the sun broke through, casting a warm light over the venue. The garden glistened from the rain, the petals of the flowers sparkling as though they had been dusted with diamonds. The atmosphere felt magical, like the universe had conspired to make the moment perfect.
Guests were seated under the clear canopy, their chatter quieting as the string quartet began to play. The melody of “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri filled the air, creating a romantic and ethereal ambiance. Alessia stood at the entrance of the aisle, clutching her bouquet of pale pink roses and peonies, her heart pounding in her chest.
Avery was the first to make her entrance, toddling down the aisle with her tiny flower basket in hand. She wore a soft ivory dress adorned with delicate lace, her chubby arms and cheeks drawing coos from the crowd. A tiny floral crown sat atop her head, perfectly framing her big, curious eyes.
“She’s absolutely precious,” Pamela whispered to Zane from their seats as they watched Avery take a few unsteady steps before plopping down onto her bottom.
The crowd chuckled as Avery looked up, seemingly unfazed. With a little encouragement from Theo, who was waiting at the altar, she stood back up, grabbed a handful of petals, and began sprinkling them with exaggerated concentration.
“She’s stealing the show,” Alessia murmured, watching her daughter from behind a corner with a smile that was equal parts pride and amusement.
“She’s her mother’s daughter,” Rachel said, adjusting Alessia’s train. “Now, it’s your turn to shine.”
As Avery reached Theo, he crouched down to scoop her into his arms, his face lighting up as she babbled something incomprehensible. The guests laughed softly, charmed by the father-daughter moment.
And then, the music shifted slightly, signaling Alessia’s entrance.
The guests turned, and a collective gasp rippled through the crowd as Alessia stepped into view. Her dress was a masterpiece—a fitted lace bodice with intricate floral embroidery that cascaded into a flowing silk skirt. The deep V-back added a touch of drama, and the long, sheer veil embroidered with tiny pearls trailed elegantly behind her.
Her bouquet, a blend of soft pinks, creams, and greenery, complemented the blush tones of the venue. Her makeup was subtle yet radiant, her eyes glowing with emotion. And her smile—bright, nervous, and full of love—was the centerpiece of it all.
“She’s breathtaking,” Theo murmured, his voice barely audible but full of awe.
Victoria dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief, whispering to Zayden, “She looks just like I imagined she would on this day.”
Alessia’s arm was linked with Zayden’s as they began their walk down the aisle. The melody of the string quartet seemed to echo the rhythm of her heart. Each step brought her closer to Theo, who stood tall at the end of the aisle, his eyes locked on hers.
“Take your time,” Zayden whispered to her. “This is your moment.”
Alessia nodded, her gaze never leaving Theo. She could see the way his expression softened with every step she took, his love and admiration radiating across the distance. Avery sat on his hip, clutching his lapel and giggling as if she understood the significance of the moment.
The guests watched in silence, captivated by the sight of Alessia. The sunlight filtering through the canopy highlighted her dress, making her appear almost angelic. She smiled at familiar faces as she passed but kept her focus on Theo.
When they reached the altar, Zayden gently kissed Alessia’s cheek, his own eyes glistening. “You’ve got this,” he said quietly before stepping back to take his seat beside Victoria.