Chapter 9 - The Wedding on the Cliffs
Six months later.
The Marchetti fortress on the cliffs of Amalfi was transformed into an earthly paradise. Thousands of white roses and lemon blossoms draped the glass-and-steel balconies overlooking the sea. The spring breeze blew warm and sweet across the cliffside garden, where two hundred select guests—international allies, high-level surgeons from the new institute, and close friends—were gathered.
A grand string quartet played a romantic Italian concerto as the guests stood.
Arya walked down the aisle of white marble—the very marble she had once scrubbed on her hands and knees—wearing a breathtaking custom lace wedding gown with a flowing silk train. Her mother walked proudly beside her, her face glowing with health and pride.
At the end of the altar stood Rocco Marchetti, looking magnificent in a dark blue tuxedo. Beside him stood Bruno, acting as best man, holding little Leo, who was now a chubby, healthy eleven-month-old toddler, laughing and clapping his tiny hands as he saw his mother approach.
When Arya reached the altar, Rocco stepped forward, taking her hand gently. His dark eyes were glossy with suppressed emotions as he looked at his bride.
The priest began the ancient Italian ceremony.
"Do you, Rocco Marchetti, take Arya Vance to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in danger and in peace, until death do you part?"
"I do," Rocco said, his voice deep, strong, and resounding across the cliffs. "With my life, my blood, and my soul."
"And do you, Arya Vance, take Rocco Marchetti to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love, honor, and protect, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
Arya looked into Rocco’s eyes, feeling the warmth of his hand, the absolute safety of his love, and the bright future stretching out before them.
"I do," Arya smiled softly. "With all my heart."
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"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife," the priest declared. "You may kiss the bride."
Rocco didn't hesitate. He pulled Arya into his arms, dipping her back gracefully as he pressed a deep, passionate kiss onto her lips. The crowd erupted into thunderous applause, throwing white rose petals into the air as the sun began to set over the Mediterranean Sea, painting the sky in vibrant shades of gold, pink, and violet.
