Ties of Blood (Book One)

Chapter 52 ~ Gianna

Gianna Rostova
4 months later

I'd be lying if I said these haven't been the best four months of my life. Standing in front of the mirror, putting the final touches on my makeup for Camilla and Alessandro's wedding, it feels almost surreal how much has changed.

It's hard to believe Matteo is waiting downstairs, ready to be my date to mine and his best friend's wedding. He's different now—softer, more open.

He talks to his mother more often these days. I catch him on the phone with her at least once in two weeks, and it's strange to see that side of him. But it's also comforting, like maybe he's finally letting himself be vulnerable, even if just a little.

And me? I cut ties with my d- Anton. I never imagined I'd do it, but here I am, lighter, breathing easier. It's as if I've shed a part of myself that wasn't meant to stay. It's still complicated, and there are moments when I wonder if I did the right thing, but I'm trying to trust my instincts.

And it doesn't hurt that when I second guess anything Matteos always there to hug with and talk to.

I finally opened up to Camilla about what happened and why exactly, the villa was such an awkward thing for us. She was mad at first, as to why I didn't tell her but I explained that I was still trying it figure things out for myself, and I was sorry for lying to her.

Eventually, after a few hours of chocolates, apologises, and even more ice cream, she calmed down and forgave me and that was that.

Then there's Nico. He refuses to speak to his mother, no matter how many times Matteo or Lucinda tries to bring it up. It's a battle Matteo's been quietly fighting, I could tell.

But tonight isn't about all of that. Tonight is about Camilla and Alessandro. My best friend is a wife and I was so damn proud of her.

I went downstairs, the bridesmaids dresses were floral and a hint of blue which was fine because I liked how pretty everyone looked.

I paused at the top of the stairs, taking him in for a moment. Matteo in a tuxedo was a sight I'd never get used to. His sharp jawline, the way his hair was neatly maintained and messy yet put together look—he looked like something out of a magazine. But there was something more to it now. He wasn't just the billionaire CEO, or boss of the Italian mafia. He was... softer, more real.

He glanced up and met my eyes, and for a second, that cold, unreadable expression he used to wear flickered back. But it was gone just as quickly, replaced by a small smile, one only I ever got to see. I carefully descended the stairs, smoothing out my dress as I walked toward him.

"You look beautiful," he said quietly, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down my spine. He reached for my hand, pulling me close to plant a soft kiss on my cheek. "Ready?"

"More than ready," I replied, feeling a flutter of nerves in my stomach. Camilla's big day was here, and I wasn't sure if it was the excitement of the wedding or the fact that I was attending it with Matteo that had me feeling this way.

We walked toward the door, and for a moment, everything else faded. The complications, the family struggles, my lingering doubts—none of it mattered tonight. Not when we were here, together, supporting our friends as they took their vows. Matteo's hand in mine was steady, reassuring, and I squeezed it slightly as we stepped outside, the warm evening air wrapping around us.