The Heart Belongs To Whom

Lucia looked down at the bouquet in her hand. A heavy feeling burst from her chest, but it was already too late to run away as she was already deep into her plans. 

The cheers and support from the crowd behind Lucia felt like a series of sharp knives stabbing into her chest. 

'This is it. This is what I have desired for a long time. I'm so close,' Lucia thought deeply, followed by a loud sigh. She stared at the closed door, ready to be opened when she felt a tingling sensation behind her neck.

"Gastone," Lucia whispered as she looked back, but she didn't see him. A defeated smile appeared on her lips. "Why did I even think about him?" 

Lucia took a deep breath and poised herself. 

The door slowly opened, revealing the grand aisle covered in red petals, which led straight to the altar where Daniel stood, tall and proud in his white and gold ceremonial attire.