The Black Silk

Chapter 11 🖤✨

Adrian stood amidst the opulence of the grand mafia wedding venue, his amber eyes scanning the elegant surroundings. The air was thick with the fragrance of flowers and the murmur of conversations, punctuated by the occasional clink of glasses. 

He stood tall and stoic in his tailored tuxedo, a facade of calm professionalism masking the turmoil within. Cellina was somewhere amidst the guests, fulfilling her role as the Maid of Honor, but her sudden disappearance earlier still gnawed at him.

The ceremony began with solemnity, Fleur radiant in her ivory gown adorned with intricate lace, and Alessio dignified in his tailored black tuxedo. Adrian observed them from a distance, his thoughts drifting back to Cellina. 

They had shared a dance earlier, one filled with unspoken tension and guarded movements. Now, as the newlyweds exchanged vows, Adrian's gaze occasionally flickered towards Cellina, seeking her familiar form amidst the crowd.

After the vows, the grand hall erupted into celebration. Music filled the air, and guests mingled, raising a toast to the newly married couple. Adrian found himself near the edge of the dance floor, watching as Fleur and Alessio took to the center for their first dance. Their movements were graceful, a testament to their love and unity, and their smiles were radiant with happiness.

Alessio's voice cut through the music as he leaned towards Fleur, his tone filled with adoration. "You look stunning, mia amore. This day couldn't be more perfect."

Fleur smiled wide her perfect white teeth on display, and her eyes shining with love. "And you are every bit the handsome groom, Alessio. I must say you are the luckiest man in the world."

Their dance continued each step a promise for the future they would build together. Adrian couldn't help but feel a pang of longing, a fleeting wish for such happiness in his own life.

Nearby, Cellina stood composed yet distant, her posture rigid as she danced with Alessio. Adrian's gaze fixed on them, observing the controlled movements and the subtle exchanges of words. His amber eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of frustration surfacing before he schooled his expression.

When the song ended, Alessio kissed Fleur before turning to Cellina with a warm smile. "Thank you for being part of our special day, Cellina. You've been a pillar of strength."

"I would have never missed this day for anything. And about the pillar of strength, it's the other way around. I usually don't get emotional so it's better you keep it that way and not ruin Fleur's day with me crying or she will talk my ear off." Cellina replied with a small smile.

As Alessio moved away to greet other guests, Adrian approached Cellina. His voice, usually smooth and authoritative, held an edge of suppressed anger as he spoke. "You disappeared earlier. Care to explain?"

Cellina's response was clipped, her tone devoid of emotion. "My duty as a Maid of Honor comes first, Adrian. Today my matters are secondary."

Adrian's jaw tightened, his frustration simmering beneath the surface. "You could have informed me. I was worried."

Her gaze remained steady. "No need for concern, Capo. It won't happen again."

With a curt nod, Adrian turned away, his steps purposeful as he navigated through the crowd. He needed a moment to collect his thoughts, to regain his composure amidst the whirlwind of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him.

Meanwhile, the festivities continued in full swing. Guests enjoyed a lavish spread of Italian cuisine, while the dance floor remained alive with couples twirling to the music. Adrian watched from a distance, his mind drifting to Fleur and Alessio's departure for their honeymoon.

Fleur's wedding gown had been a masterpiece of elegance and grace, crafted from layers of ivory lace that flowed around her like a dream. The intricate beadwork shimmered in the soft glow of the venue, accentuating her beauty as she walked hand in hand with Alessio toward their awaiting private jet.

Alessio's tuxedo, tailored to perfection, exuded sophistication and strength. The black fabric hugged his muscular frame, while the crisp white shirt and silk tie added a touch of classic charm. Together, they embodied the epitome of elegance and power, a union celebrated amidst the luxurious backdrop of their world.

As Fleur and Alessio boarded the jet, their smiles spoke of anticipation and joy for the journey ahead. Adrian watched them depart, a mixture of emotions swirling within him. The wedding had been a spectacle of tradition and luxury, yet beneath the surface, complexities simmered—personal and professional boundaries blurred, emotions tangled, and a future uncertain.

The bond forged during the wedding remained, a silent undercurrent amidst their cold interactions. Adrian's amber eyes would sometimes soften with unspoken thoughts, while Cellina's icy blue gaze remained guarded, her professionalism a shield against the complexities of their shared nights.

The grandeur of the wedding faded into memory, replaced by the realities of their world—a world where alliances shifted like shadows, loyalty was tested, and trust was earned with every heartbeat. 

And amidst it all, Adrian and Cellina navigated their roles with precision, their paths intertwined yet divergent, their dance a delicate balance between duty and desire.