Chapter 10 - The Last Ledger
Six months later.
The summer sun shone brightly over St. Patrick’s Cathedral in the heart of the city. The dark clouds of war that had loomed over the Marchetti family had completely dissipated. Victor Moretti’s empire was entirely dismantled, his remaining lieutenants fled or surrendered, and the city was under Enzo's absolute, peaceful control.
Inside the cathedral, white lilies adorned every pew, and soft organ music filled the vaulted ceiling.
Standing at the altar in a crisp black tuxedo was Enzo Marchetti. Beside him stood his loyal lieutenants, Ray and Angelo, both wearing broad, proud smiles.
The heavy wooden doors at the back of the cathedral opened.
Walking down the aisle in a beautiful white flower girl dress was little Sadie. She scattered rose petals with a huge grin on her face, tossing a playful wink at Enzo as she reached the front.
And then came Claire.
She looked breathtakingly ethereal in a vintage white lace gown, her dark hair styled elegantly, holding a bouquet of white roses. Beside her, walking her down the aisle, was Rosa Marchetti, weeping tears of pure joy.
As Claire reached the altar, Enzo took her hands into his own. The tough, hardened mob Don had tears shining in his dark eyes as he looked at the woman who had brought light into his dark world.
"You look beautiful," Enzo whispered softly.
"You didn't show up to our first date," Claire teased gently, a radiant smile gracing her lips. "I thought I should make sure you didn't run away today."
"I’m never going anywhere," Enzo promised.
The priest delivered the vows, blessing their union before the entire Marchetti family and friends.
"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife," the priest declared. "You may kiss the bride."
Enzo pulled Claire close, dipping her gently as he kissed her with deep, passionate devotion. The entire cathedral erupted into loud cheers and applause, with Sadie jumping up and down in excitement.
Later that evening, at the grand reception hosted at the Marchetti estate, Enzo stood on the balcony overlooking the illuminated gardens. Claire walked up behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her head against his back.
"What are you thinking about, husband?" she asked softly.
Enzo turned around, wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her close. Across the lawn, Sadie was running around with Brutus, laughing happily under the festoon lights.
"I spent thirty-seven years believing that men like me weren't meant for happiness," Enzo smiled, kissing Claire's forehead softly. "I thought every kindness had a ledger, and every bullet had a name."
"And now?" Claire asked, looking into his eyes.
May you like
Enzo smiled, pulling his wife and daughter close as Sadie ran up to hug his legs.
"Now I know that the best things in life are the ones we fight to protect," Enzo said softly. "My ledger is clear. I’m finally home."
