Gangster's Paradise // Rio (Good Girls)

39. wedding

Isla nervously rubbed her lips together as she gazed at her reflection. Her hair was elegantly styled in a beautiful bun, with loose strands cascading gracefully around her face. Her dress draped beautifully over her rounded belly, and just the right amount of makeup adorned her features.

"You look beautiful, Izzy," Emma complimented, adjusting Isla's hair. "Are you nervous?" she asked. Isla nodded, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Don't worry, you'll be fine," Lexi reassured her with a broad smile. "It's just a small gathering with people you know." Isla took a deep breath, realizing that Lexi wasn't exaggerating. They were getting married at the cozy little bar where he often played pool—a simple and intimate affair, just as she had envisioned.

"Whenever you're ready," Emma said gently. Isla exhaled, turning to face Lexi and Emma.

"Let's go," Isla declared as they made their way to the car. They drove towards the bar, and as they pulled in, Isla could already spot Rio standing there in a button up black suit and black jeans. When the car stopped, he walked over and opened the door.

Isla stepped out of the car and looked up at Rio. He smiled down at her, gently sweeping strands of hair away from her face. "You look beautiful, Mama," he whispered.

"You don't look too bad yourself," Isla replied, leaning in as he kissed her cheek. Her hand moved to caress his face, her thumb tracing loving circles beneath his eyes.

"Let's get this done," Rio said with a smile, taking her hand. They walked hand in hand towards the bar, and as the doors swung open, cheers erupted from the gathered friends and family. Isla glanced at Rio, her smile widening, as they made their way to the front.

"We are all here to join this man and woman," the officiant announced. "Do you, Rio Santos, take this woman to be your beloved wedded wife?" he asked, Isla looked up at Rio, a small smile playing on her lips.

"I do," Rio declared.

"And do you, Isla Lee, take this man to be your beloved wedded husband?" the officiant continued. Isla beamed.

"I do," Isla said.

"You may now kiss the bride!" the officiant proclaimed. Without hesitation, Rio pulled Isla close, tenderly capturing her lips in a deep, passionate kiss.

As their lips met, the room filled with applause and joyful cheers from their loved ones. Isla couldn't help but deepen the kiss, her hand sliding to the back of Rio's neck, pulling him closer. His arms wrapped around her waist, lightly drawing her towards him until her round belly gently pressed against his.

After the kiss, Isla and Rio turned to face their guests, their hands still tightly intertwined. Isla looked up at Rio, a radiant smile lighting up her face. He moved behind her, his hands resting on her waist, cradling her pregnant belly. Leaning down, he whispered in her ear, "I love you, Isla," causing her to shiver with delight. Isla's hand moved up to caress his face, and she planted a tender kiss on his lips.

"And I love you," Isla replied, her voice filled with happiness. A big, beaming smile graced her face as she gazed at him. "Are you happy?" she whispered.

"I'm more than happy, Isla," Rio confessed. "You make me incredibly happy." Isla's eyes filled with tears, and she blinked them away, overwhelmed by the profound love and joy she felt. In that moment, her heart swelled with happiness like never before, and she knew that this extraordinary happiness was all thanks to one person—Rio.

The night carried on with laughter, delicious food, and dancing. Smiles adorned everyone's faces, filling the air with joy. Isla found herself in a quiet corner, contentedly observing the merriment.

"Are you alright?" Rio asked, making his way towards her.

"Yeah," Isla replied, gently rubbing her belly. "I just needed to sit down," she explained, looking up at him. She blushed as he settled beside her, pulling her close as she nestled her head on his chest.

"I can't believe we're married," Isla whispered, her voice filled with awe. "I mean, we're really married," she marveled.

"I always had a feeling it would happen," Rio said, gazing down at her with affection.

"You can be so cocky sometimes," Isla chuckled.

"No, it's not about being cocky," Rio confessed, his voice carrying a genuine sincerity. "From the very moment I laid eyes on you, I knew deep down that you were meant to be mine. I was determined to make it happen, no matter what." Isla's smile widened, her heart swelling with love, and she couldn't resist playfully planting a kiss on his lips

"Come on," Rio said, standing up and pulling Isla to her feet. She looked back at the bustling crowd, a hint of hesitation in her eyes. "Where are we going?" she questioned, her voice filled with uncertainty. "We can't just leave our own wedding," she protested. However, Rio continued walking, leading her out of the bar and towards his car. Isla huffed in exasperation as she climbed into the car, asking once again where they were headed, but receiving no response.

The drive was filled with silence, and Isla clung to Rio's arm, her head resting wearily on his shoulder. Her eyelids fluttered open and closed with drowsiness, the events of the day taking their toll.

"We're here," Rio announced. Isla slowly lifted her head, peering out of the window. Her eyes widened as she beheld a beautiful, dark gray house. Isla stepped out of the car, her gaze fixed on the house.

"It's beautiful, Rio," Isla remarked, awe in her voice. "Whose house is this?" she inquired, looking around in confusion.

"It's our house, Isla. The one I had built," Rio revealed, a smile spreading across his face. Isla's eyes widened in astonishment as she turned to face him. "Come on, let's go take a look," he suggested, taking her hand and guiding her towards the entrance. Together, they stepped inside

As Isla and Rio stepped inside their new house, they were greeted by a spacious foyer with high ceilings and elegant decor. The walls were adorned with tasteful artwork, and the soft glow of ambient lighting created a warm and inviting atmosphere.

They continued exploring the house, moving from room to room. The kitchen boasted state-of-the-art appliances and a large island perfect for cooking. The living room featured plush furniture arranged around a cozy fireplace, inviting them to curl up and relax.

Isla's excitement grew as they ascended the staircase, eager to discover what awaited them on the upper floor. They entered the master bedroom, their eyes widening at the sight before them. The room was adorned with luxurious furnishings, from the plush king-sized bed to the sleek dressers and a stunning chandelier that cast a romantic glow.

Isla turned to Rio, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "It's our wedding night," she whispered, a playful smile playing on her lips.

Rio smirked, his voice taking on a hint of naughtiness. "Oh, Isla, you have no idea what I have planned for us tonight in this bedroom," he replied, his tone reminiscent of his mischievous character. "It's going to be a long night." rio said closing the door behind him