Chapter 10 - THE LADY OF THE ESTATE
The sun was setting behind the Alps, painting the sky in dazzling shades of gold, violet, and soft pink.
Clara and Matteo stood hand-in-hand at the marble altar set up at the edge of the lake, surrounded by thousands of white roses. The priest finished the traditional Italian vows, his voice echoing over the quiet waters.
“By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife,” the priest declared. “Signor Moretti, you may kiss your bride.”
Matteo didn't hesitate. He pulled Clara into his arms, dipping her gently as he pressed his lips to hers in a deep, passionate kiss that made the entire audience break into thunderous applause.
Bruno let out a loud, triumphant bark from his place beside the altar, making all the guests laugh and cheer even louder.
Later that evening, as the grand reception turned into a celebration of music, dancing, and floating lanterns over the lake, Clara stepped away from the crowd for a quiet moment.
She walked down to the stone service courtyard where her journey had begun—the exact spot where she had dropped the two empty buckets in the snow six months ago.
The stone was warm now, illuminated by the soft light of garden lanterns.
Footsteps sounded behind her. Matteo walked up, holding two crystal glasses of champagne, with Bruno trailing happily at his heels.
He handed a glass to Clara, wrapping his free arm around her waist as they looked out over the dark, sparkling waters of Lake Como.
“What are you thinking about, my Lady?” Matteo asked softly, kissing the side of her temple.
Clara rested her head against his broad chest, listening to the steady, strong beat of his heart. She looked down at Bruno, who sat beside them, leaning his heavy weight against her legs just as he had done on that terrifying winter morning.
“I was thinking about how lucky I am,” Clara whispered, her heart brimming with complete, unshakeable happiness. “I thought falling at your feet was the worst disaster of my life.”
Matteo wrapped both arms around her, pulling her close into the warm, safe sanctuary of his love.
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“It wasn't a disaster, my sweet Clara,” Matteo murmured against her lips. “It was destiny.”
THE END
