Bruno's Daughter

Chapter 50

Kristi's POV:

 After taking some pictures, we went to the reception. Papa, abuela, Tia Pepa, Tia Julietta, and all my cousins except Delores sat at the table nearest to mine and Andres'. Delores and Mariano, as the Best Man and Maid of Honor, sat at our table. I smiled as I looked over at Andres. He smiled back at me. From under the table, we were holding hands. I could hardly believe it...I was married. Andres was my husband...So far, today has been amazing. And I can't wait to see what the rest of today brings. 

 It was almost time for papa's speech. The meal was just about over. I looked over at him. He barely touched his food. He was nervous, I could tell. When it was finally time, he stood up. As he passed me, I grabbed his hand. He stopped and looked at me, a little surprised. 

 "It'll be fine, papa...Whatever happens, this will always be one of the best days of my life. I love you." I whispered to him. Papa gave me a small, nervous smile. I let go of his hand and watched as papa walked the the front.

 I watched as papa looked around nervously at all the people. He took a deep breath before looking at his paper he held in his hand. He cleared his throat as he gazed around the room and began to speak.

 "Hello, everyone. I'm Bruno. The father of the beautiful bride. I'd like to welcome you all to the wedding and thank you for coming. I'd also like to thank Alejandra and Alvaro Garcia for everything they did to make this wedding possible.

 I just want to remember Juan and Carmen Lorenzo. My best friends and Kristi's biological parents. And, of course, my late father, Pedro Madrigal. In a way, they all had a hand in this. And, wherever they are, I just want to give them my thanks..

 Now, I'm not exactly very good at this, but I am going to give it my best shot.

 Kristi, from the moment you were born, you had me wrapped around your finger. I remember thinking of you as a little angel, as you laid there wrapped in a soft pink blanket...A tiny little baby. I've loved you from the moment I first laid eyes on you. 

 I remember when you were growing up. We'd take walks in the evenings. We started that the day I adopted you and we did it every night since. I remember the day of your gift ceremony. We were surprised that you were going to be given a gift. I remember how nervous you were and how you ran straight into my arms that night. And then, you were given your gift. Some would say you were blessed with your gift. But to me, you've been blessed since the day you were born. My favorite time of the day, was nighttime. When I'd tuck you in at night. And you'd have me tell you a story or sing you a song. Or, you'd have me do both! How I loved those times..."

 I smiled, tears coming to my eyes as I listened to papa talk. The more he spoke, the more comfortable be became. He smiled as he spoke of the memories he had.

 "Kristi, I am so proud of the young woman you have become. I know Juan and Carmen would be as well. Every day, I see a little of them in you. In the things you say, the things you do, in your face. You look just like your mama. But, you have inherited your papa's stubbornness and temper. You are caring and smart, just like them both. And, like Juan, you are family oriented. It's honestly hard to believe this day is finally here. It seems like just yesterday you were a little baby. Then I turn around and you've grown up into a beautiful young woman. I am proud of who you are today. And I am so proud to call you my daughter.

 I have loved every moment of watching you grow up, Kristi. You've always been the light of my life. Your smile could light up this whole world. It's bitter-sweet, watching you grow, and, it's bitter-sweet now as I give you away to a man I know loves you with all his heart. I love watching you both every day. I knew this day was coming. Especially when I saw you would be engaged in the future."