You are mine now

Bella stood in front of Lucas, her heart hammering in her chest as she met his gaze. The world around them blurred, the murmurs of the guests fading into a soft hum. All she could focus on was him—the man who had unknowingly changed her life, the father of her child, the person she was about to vow to spend the rest of her life with.

Lucas's fingers tightened around hers, his touch warm and reassuring. His usual composed expression wavered, replaced by something raw—something that sent a flutter through Bella's chest.

"Do you feel comfortable in this dress?" He asked her gently. She just nodded in agreement. "You are looking like a dream Bella." He whispered in her ear once he made sure that she was comfortable. She blushed at his compliment.

The officiant cleared his throat, beginning the ceremony. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of Lucas Costanzo and Bella Knights…"

Bella's hands trembled slightly, but Lucas, ever so perceptive, ran his thumb over her skin in silent reassurance. As the vows were exchanged, Lucas spoke first.

"I never thought I would stand here like this." His voice was steady, yet there was a softness in it that was rare. "I never thought I would meet someone who would turn my world upside down, who would make me want more than what I ever thought I deserved. But then, I met you, Bella. You are strong, kind, and so full of love that it makes me want to be a better man every single day."

Bella felt her throat tighten, her vision blurring slightly. Lucas continued, his voice dropping slightly. "I promise to protect you, to stand by your side no matter what. To be there for you and our family—not just as a husband but as someone who will cherish you every single day."

He exhaled, his gaze locking onto hers. "I may not be perfect, but I promise to take care of you in the best way I can, for as long as I live." A tear slipped down Bella's cheek.

It was her turn. Taking a deep breath, she held onto his hands tighter. "Lucas…" Her voice wavered, but she pushed forward. "You came into my life when I least expected it. And even when I tried to push you away, you stayed. You've been there for me, for Rachel…"

"and now, for the little life growing inside me." She whispered, making sure only he can hear. Her lips quivered. "You are stubborn, sometimes infuriatingly so, but you are also the most caring man I've ever met."

Lucas's jaw clenched, emotion flickering through his usually composed eyes. "I promise to stand by you, to trust you, to walk beside you in every step of life. I don't know what the future holds, but I know that as long as we are together, we will find our way." A small tear rolled down her cheek, but she smiled. "You are my home from now, Lucas."

Lucas let out a slow exhale, his fingers twitching against hers as if he wanted to pull her close right then and there. The officiant smiled. "Lucas, do you take Bella to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

"I do," Lucas said without hesitation, his voice thick with emotion. "And Bella, do you take Lucas to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Bella nodded, her lips parting slightly before she finally whispered, "I do." The rings were exchanged, a perfect fit, much like the two of them. "You may now kiss the bride."

His hands gently cupped her face as he leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both deep and reverent. Their emotions which were earlier conveyed through eyes now came out with the kiss.

The moment their lips met, a wave of warmth spread through Bella's chest. It wasn't just a kiss—it was a promise, a new beginning, a silent vow that neither of them would ever be alone again.

The guests erupted into cheers, Rachel clapping excitedly while grinning at them. As Lucas pulled away slightly, his forehead resting against hers, he whispered just for her to hear, "You are mine now, Bella". Saying this he proceed to kiss her again.

Bella let out a shaky breath, her heart pounding against her ribs. She was his. And he was hers. Forever.

As their lips parted, a wave of warmth lingered between them. Bella's breath hitched, her eyes still half-lidded as she stared at Lucas, dazed. He, too, seemed reluctant to pull away, his hand gently cupping her waist as if anchoring himself in the moment.

It wasn't until a playful cough broke the silence that they snapped out of their trance.

"Ahem—save some for later, lovebirds," Matteo teased, amusement dancing in his eyes.

Bella's face burned instantly, and she instinctively buried her face into Lucas's chest. A deep chuckle rumbled through him, but even he wasn't spared from the embarrassment. His ears tinted red, and he cleared his throat, trying to mask his flustered state.

"Oh dear," Alessandra smirked, stepping forward. "Look at her! Blushing so much… Bella, sweetheart, I hope you get used to this because my son has no sense of restraint when it comes to you."

Bella groaned, her face only growing warmer. "M-Mamma!" Lucas protested, earning a round of laughter from the family.

Alessandra leaned in, lowering her voice just enough for Bella to hear. "It's okay, dear. He's only ever had eyes for you."

Bella's heart skipped a beat, and though she wanted to respond, all she could do was blush even harder.

Lucas shook his head, finally composing himself as he took Bella's hand. "Alright, alright, let's move on before my mother embarrasses us even more."

Alessandra simply laughed. "Oh, darling, this is only the beginning."