Bound by my blood

Chapter nine

I stand before the full-length mirror, my reflection staring back at me with a mixture of doubt and discomfort. The dress clings to my frame, its stiff fabric restricting my movement as if it's already trying to trap me in a future I don't want. The high neckline and long sleeves make me feel suffocated, a far cry from the effortless elegance I had envisioned for my wedding day.

Neveah, on the other hand, beams from the corner of the room, clasping her hands together like she's already planning my bridal photos.

Taking a deep breath, I step out of the dressing room.

The room falls silent as my family and friends take in the sight of me in the gown. Their expressions range from uncertain to outright horrified.

Mama clears her throat, trying to soften the blow. "It's... definitely something."

"It's disgusting," I say flatly, smoothing my hands down the stiff fabric. "I look like a fucking bore."

Ameena erupts into laughter, doubling over and wheezing. "She's not wrong."

Aurora shakes her head, unimpressed. "None of these dresses are you. We'll have to look somewhere else tomorrow."

Relieved, I nod. "Can someone call the other boutiques and book an appointment? I have lunch plans with some friends from university—I need to tell them I'm moving."

I retreat into the changing room, peeling off the suffocating dress and slipping into my usual clothes. As I step out, I hand the gown back to the sales assistant with zero hesitation.

Mamma presses a few crisp bills into my palm, though we both know I don't need them. It's just her way of looking out for me. She kisses my cheek, and I say my goodbyes before stepping out onto the bustling street.

The air is thick with the scent of fresh pastries from the nearby bakery, and the late afternoon sun casts long shadows on the pavement. I weave through the crowd, my thoughts heavy as I make my way to the café.

Inside, my friends are already waiting.

Gilbert spots me first and stands, waving me over enthusiastically.

"Hey, Gil," I greet, giving him a brief hug before sliding into the seat across from him.

Tia passes me a steaming cup of coffee without a word, but her arched brow tells me she's suspicious. "Alright, spill. What's going on? Is it family drama?"

I swallow, choosing my words carefully. "Sort of. You know how my family's involved in, um... business? With the clubs, hotels, and everything?"

Both of them nod, urging me to continue.

"Well..." I take a deep breath. "I met someone at a business event a while back, and—long story short—I'm moving in with him."

Gil's jaw practically hits the table. Tia, on the other hand, merely shrugs and asks, "Is he hot?"

Gil groans. "Tia, seriously? That's your first question?" He turns back to me, eyes searching mine. "Why didn't you tell us before? Do you love him?"

I force a smile. "Yeah, of course, I do. The only downside is... he lives in Sicily."

Gilbert's expression darkens, but Tia just sighs. "Well, that's a bummer. But you still didn't answer my question."

I chuckle, taking a sip of my coffee. "He's alright."

We spend the next hour chatting, pretending everything is normal. But when it's time to say goodbye, Gil's eyes well up. I feel a pang of guilt.

Vincenzo would never allow my university friends to attend the wedding. And honestly, even if he did, it would be dangerous with all the cartel and mafia figures expected to show up.