A Bride For A Truce

SERAFINA'S POV

MANHATTAN NEW YORK. AUGUST 2021

The black Mercedes pulled up smoothly to the front gates of the Vitale estate.

I stepped out and walked towards the front door.

My performance tonight was exceptional as usual,I loved the thrill that went through the crowd whenever I finished a piece.

But as I approached the house, a rising sense of danger slowly encircled me. I shook it off and walked in.

I stepped into the foyer, and glanced around. The extravagance of our family home always left me in awe.

I heard footsteps approach me from behind. "Signoria" came a soft voice.

I turned to see Tessa, our family maid approaching with a soft smile on her face. Tessa has been with the family for as long as I can remember. Ever since we lost mum, she had been a constant.

"How are you, Tessa?" I smiled in return.

"I am fine Cara (dear). You're home late tonight", she observed taking my coat and scarf that I was about to put up.

She kissed my cheeks "You were amazing tonight as always" she gushed, her eyes shining with pride.

"Thank you!" I grinned back, basking in the warmth of her compliment.

"Your father is waiting for you in his study, he asked that you come up as soon as you get home" she stated.

My smile faded knowing that this couldn't be good. My father only summoned me to his study when he had something very important to say.

"Did he say what it was about?"

Tessa shook her head in the negative "No Cara, but we know him well enough to know that this can't be good." she said in a sympathetic tone.

I did know exactly what she meant, my father's study wasn't for laughs or tea dates. I sighed and ran my hands down my dress.

"Thank you Tessa." my lips curved into a forced smile. "I'll go see what he needs" I responded before turning towards the hallway.

The walk to his study seemed endless tonight.Maybe it was because i was dreading the upcoming confrontation.

I knocked briskly on the heavy oak door and waited for a response.

"Come in!" My father's authoritative voice boomed from within. With a firm push, the door creaked open, revealing the dimly lit study.

There was a lingering smell of Cigar in the air, shelves lined with books,most of them first editions framed the imposing desk where my father sat.

His head was bent over some documents on his table, and he took his time to sort through them before glancing up at me.

My eyes connected with his trying to read his expression but he looked away guiltily .

"Sit Sera."

I rolled my eyes at the nickname he always used as I took a sit.

"A truce has been agreed upon with the Bratva"...My father's voice was calm but his gaze was unyielding.." You are to be married to Adriko Ivanov" he said whilst leaning back in his chair and observing my expression.

I tensed instantly, his words hitting me like a slap.The type that stings long after it lands.

For a moment, I couldn't breathe.

Marriage?

To the Bratva kingpin?

The idea sounded like a cruel joke that for a moment I almost laughed but the look in my father's eyes told me otherwise.

I narrowed my eyes at him, my heartbeat accelerating in panic. "You can't be serious papa! I can't marry Adriko, that is not what I want"

"Enough!", he roared sharply, his fist slamming down onto the desk, silencing me instantly.

He leaned forward, his dark eyes pinning me in place." This isn't up for discussion, Serafina," he stated, his voice cold and final."Don Marco has spoken, and so have I. You're to marry Adriko Ivanov. It's the only way to end this War!!"

I got up so quickly that the chair fell over, hitting the floor with a loud thud.

I clenched my fists at my sides as I stared daggers at my father, my breathing harsh and fast.

"You're offering me up like a lamb to slaughter, all because of your mistakes?" I shot back, my voice trembling with fury and restrained tears.

Everyone knew how it was my father's error that sparked the war in the first place.

He fixed me with a piercing gaze "I know this is hard for you to accept figlia mia (my daughter ) but my hands are tied" he said in a rueful tone.

"This is my burden to end, and this truce would be the only way to put a halt to all the bloodshed. The camorra will not bow to the bratva and they won't bow to us."

I looked down in an attempt to stop the tears that were threatening to spill down my face.

I always thought I would be able to pursue my dream at The Metropolitan Opera, travel the world, and let love find me in due time but this was such a brutal slap to my face.

I felt the weight of my father's words squeezing my heart. I decided to try again to make him see reason.

"But what about my life? My dreams?" I asked, my voice breaking. "You know how much performing means to me, Papa. Why let me build this life only to rip it away? Just because your mistakes have come back to haunt you?"

He stood and walked walked around his desk, towards me." Mi dispiace,tesoro mio" (I'm sorry my darling) he pleaded with a hint of sadness in his voice.

I sighed realizing there was no way out of this. Even if I tried to bypass my father, I couldn't bypass the Don.

"When is the wedding?" I asked in a resigned tone,deciding to accept my fate.

"A week from today, everything is being arranged. You don't have to bother about anything."

Like I would even bother, I scoffed inwardly as I watched him move back to his table and bring out a box.

He opened it and a marquise-shaped diamond ring glinted under the study's harsh light.

"This arrived from Adriko." he informed."You'll wear it starting tonight."

My breath hitched; It was beautiful, but a cruel mockery of the life I had dreamed for myself.

I snatched the box from him, ripples of barely controlled rage crawling across my skin. With nothing else to say to him, I turned and fled the room, the sound of my footsteps echoing down the hallway like the pounding of my heart.

Once inside my room, I slammed and locked the door, collapsing against it as tears finally spilled down my cheeks.

My gaze caught my open window and I crossed the room in quick steps. The cool night air caressed my face as I leaned out, staring down at the lush garden and lake that once used to be an escape for me.

With a surge of defiance, I hurled the box far into the darkness. The diamond caught the moonlight before disappearing with a distant satisfying plop-

As I made to turn away from the window, I had a distinct feeling that I was being watched.

My pulse accelerated in fear. From the side of my eye, I saw a figure shuffle through the garden. I couldn't see who it was but I knew it wasn't Tessa, and it wasn't one of my father's guards-

ADRIKO'S POV

I stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows of my Manhattan penthouse, the city sprawling below in its chaotic rhythm.

Horns blared, headlights blinked like fireflies in the endless traffic, and faceless figures hurried along the sidewalks.

Manhattan never sleeps, and tonight, its energy matched my restless thoughts.

I sipped my vodka and watched. The view never got old.

It however lacked the allure of Moscow in summer,its golden evenings and soft, warm breezes. Still, Manhattan had its rugged charm, though it was a poor substitute for home.

I pushed the thought aside. Nostalgia had no place in my life here. Not with this wedding tightening around my neck like a noose.

Sergei's voice pulled me out of my reprieve. He's seated on the other side of my desk,tablet in hand, rattling off updates about shipments.

I stride to my chair and sink in.

"The shipment to the South Boston waterfront is set to leave at midnight," he said, scrolling through the details."The port authorities have been handled."

He looked up at me, as though to ensure I was listening.

"The next batch for Utrecht ,seven containers marked as textile imports ships in four days. Our men are ready to receive it."

I set my glass down on the table beside me and looked him straight in the eyes.

"And Cannes? Has Dinma confirmed the route? "

Sergei tapped the top of the tablet, holding my gaze while he nodded briskly. "All handled, no foul business this time"

"Good". I lean back and closed my eyes briefly." I don't want any surprises. We can't afford another slip-up,not after what happened in Tokyo"

Sergei smirked, "That was a one-time issue. I'm pretty sure Aoki and his pawns learned their lesson"

I kept quiet. The Yakuza syndicate headed by Aoki was a ruthless bunch.

Yes, they had learned but at the cost of the lives of four of my best trained men and a shipment filled with drugs and weaponry that cost me millions.

I glanced at the city below and see a familiar figure step out of a blue Cadillac.

My brow furrowed.I don't remember setting a meeting for today.

There's a pause and I sensed a change in the tone of the conversation. Sergei's tone is lighter now, more casual.

"So he drawled, lowering the tablet and taking a sip from his glass. Have you met her yet?"

I looked back at him "Met who?"

"Your bride-to-be.The Italian girl.Serafina right? Don't tell me you're not a little curious to see if she's as entrancing as they say?" he laughed with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

I scoffed and shook my head leaning forward slightly.

"What does it matter?" I asked,waving off his curiosity. "She could be beautiful or plain, clever or a half-wit.It changes nothing. This union isn't about love or attraction. It's to broker peace and form new alliances."

Sergei chuckled, leaning back against his chair. "You always haven't been one for romance boss"

I smirked though there's no humor associated with it.

"Well forgive me if I'm not swooning over the thought of being shackled with some half-witted girl. I know what needs to be done to ensure my authority and the safety of my bratva isn't questioned"

For a moment he doesn't say anything, his smile fading as he studied me.He's trying to figure out if there's more to it but there isn't.

At least, not that I'd admit.

I had learned a long time ago to keep my cards to myself and not show all my moves even to my shadow. Finally, he shrugged.

"I guess sending the ring to her father already took care of any curiosity that might arise".

Ah, the ring.Sergei had insisted we send one over but I honestly had not seen the point. I wondered briefly what type of ring he had gotten.

Sergei noticed the contemplative look on my face but before he could question me on it, there was a knock at the door.

We both glanced up as Nadia my housekeeper, stepped in, her hands clasped in front of her. She looked nervous as she always does when interrupting me.

"What is it, Nadia"? I questioned, irritation evident in my tone.

"Sorry to interrupt Mr. Ivanov," she replied, her voice soft with the familiar Russian lilt "She is here".

I frowned. "she?"

"Your guest" she clarified, lowering her gaze. "Ms.Zlata".

I huffed, barely suppressing a groan of annoyance. I knew that figure looked familiar. We weren't supposed to meet today, I wonder why she was here.

Sergei smirks "Ah, Zlata. Always punctual, isn't she?"

Ignoring him, I stood and adjusted my jacket. "Let her in".

Nadia nodded and disappeared.

A moment later Zlata strides into the room like she owns it. Her black silk dress clings to her like a second skin, her platinum blonde hair was pulled back into a low bun, sleek and perfect.

She always exuded the confidence of someone who knows she is desirable,and the cockiness of someone who thinks she is indispensable but unfortunately no one is.

"Adrik," she drawls, giving me a sultry smile as she steps closer.

"Zlata," I responded with a curious stare "Wasn't expecting you today".

She tilts her head, her blue eyes locked on mine "I was in the area so I decided to drop by and surprise you" she pouted as her tongue darted out and swiped across her lips.

I lift an eyebrow, a clear sign of my displeasure. Zlata and I don't do surprises.

Noticing my displeasure, she smiles and bats her lashes "Would you rather I left?"

I hesitated for a second. It's been a long week, I could do with some distraction. "Fine," I conceded gesturing for her to sit.

Behind me, I hear Sergei clear his throat loudly, his grin evident even without me looking.

"I'll leave you two to... catch up," Sergei smirked, as he straightened. "I'll update you on the shipments tomorrow".

"Don't keep me waiting" I warned without looking at him.

When the door closed behind him, I pour Zlata a glass of Vodka and hand it to her. She takes it with a slight smile settling onto the couch.

Her movements are practiced, timed and seductive.

Everything about her is calculated, just like the arrangement between us.

"You seem distracted tonight," She commented,watching me carefully as she sipped her drink. "Trouble with business?"

"No" I replied with a curt tone "nothing I can't handle"

She placed her glass down and makes her way towards me. Sitting beside me on the couch,she runs her fingers down my neck...She leaned closer, her breath brushing against my ear.

"Would you like me to take your mind off it?" She whispered.

Whatever distraction she planned would have to wait as the vibration of my phone on the table caught my attention.

The screen flashed with a name I hadn't seen in years.

My blood turned cold.

SERAFINA'S POV

Sunlight seeped into the room, casting a luminous glow across the furniture as though it was trying to chase the shadows that lurked within.

My stomach churned with nausea and I do my best to ignore it.

The makeup artist wraps up quickly as she smoothes a brush over my lips.

I stared at myself in the full-length mirror and can not recognize the woman looking back at me.

I look beautiful. Too beautiful.

The dress is a delicate off-the-shoulder white lace, long-sleeved mermaid dress, with thousands of beadings running across the bodice.

The neckline plunges a bit, hinting at my voluptuous breasts. My fiery mane of auburn hair is tamed and wrapped intricately with a simple diamond tiara.

"You look so stunning, Fina" Diana gushed, her voice tinged with emotions as she moved to stand behind me, adjusting my tiara.

She meets my eyes in the mirror and gives me a reassuring smile. I manage a small smile back, feeling grateful for the gift of Diana's friendship and support.

We grew up together, attending the same schools, we were inseparable. She's like a sister I never had.

"I feel sick," I admit softly, letting out a shaky breath.

"You know I am always here if you need anything right. We can even hatch out an escape plan" She leaned in to whisper to me with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

I chuckled softly appreciating her attempt at humor even though we both knew any move at escape was a wasted effort.

An ache of helplessness settled in my chest.

I wished my brother Lorenzo was here. Asides from Diana and Tessa, he was the only other ally I had.

But then Lorenzo hasn't been around for anything since......

A sharp knock at the door interrupted my train of thought and I glanced over at it..

Diana opens it to reveal my father. He paused briefly at the doorway and regarded me with an expression akin to pride.

"Serafina. Sei bellissima figlia" (you look, beautiful daughter).

Stiffening at the statement, I looked away from him. I haven't been able to look him in the eye since the night he delivered the news that broke me.

"Are you ready?" His tone left no doubt that the moment of weakness was gone.

"I'm ready" I lie, though my voice cracked.

He steps further into the room, regarding me with caution. He extended his right arm to me and I took it, entwining mine with his.

***********

The wedding is being held at the Grand Oheka Castle. Perfect for a fairytale wedding but it felt like my funeral.

I stood at the arched entrance to the garden path, that opened towards rows of perfectly trimmed hedges stretching endlessly.

The strategically placed ponds shimmered in the sunlight with the occasional ripple of koi fish breaking to the surface.

The soft strains of the wedding match drew me to the present and in unison, the guests turn their heads to stare at me in awe.

I clutch the calla lilies to my bosom and look away from their scrutinizing stares.

Taking an unsteady step forward, my gaze drifted to Adriko, standing beneath a grand floral arch waiting for me.

He was wearing a well-tailored custom tuxedo that hugged his broad shoulders and taut biceps.

Traces of intricately drawn tattoos peeped out from the cuffs of his sleeves. The visible part of his neck is adorned with an array of striking ink that commands attention.

A black and gray rose blooms on the side of his neck, its petals sharp. The stem curves gracefully down towards his collarbone, entwined with a Cyrillic lettering that I can't translate.

I lift my gaze upwards and his piercing blue eyes lock on mine.

I come to a halt in front of him, a ripple of awareness coursing through me.

Focus Sera i mutter to myself.

The priest gives us a curt nod and begins speaking.

"Dearly Beloved, we are here today

I tune out the voice of the priest, focusing my attention on Adriko, his blue eyes pulled me in. I noticed the clenching of his jaw and wondered briefly what he might be thinking.

The voice of the priest filters back into my ears "Marriage is not merely a union of two people" he commented in a steady and reverent voice." It is a binding declaration of love, trust, and shared purpose".

Trust and love. My throat tightened at the irony of those words. Adriko's expression was closed off. I wondered what was going through his head.

Looking away from his intense gaze,my eyes drift over the sea of faces who were staring at me, some in curiosity, others in judgment.

I caught the gazes of a few women who stared at Adriko with barely concealed lust.

The voice of the priest brings my attention back.

"Do you Serafina Vitale, take this man Adriko Ivanov to be your lawfully wedded husband? To love, honor, and cherish him, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?"

My heart rate picked up as I struggled to speak.

"I..." The word caught in my throat, barely audible

Adriko's hand brushed against mine, a slight touch that jolted me to my core but succeeded in pulling me back to the moment.

His eyes burned into mine an unspoken command present in their depths.

"I do," I said, my voice trembling slightly but clear enough to carry.

"Can we have the rings? " The priest asked.

A man whom I hadn't noticed initially, stepped out from beside Adriko and handed him a box.

I took the ring from the priest and proceeded to slip the silver band onto Adriko's ring finger.

Adriko repeated the same vows and as he looked down to slip the wedding band Onto my ring finger, he noticed the absence of the engagement ring.

His hold tightened on my fingers and he looked up at me with a glare,a flicker of annoyance flashing in his eyes.

"Where is your engagement ring?" he questioned sharply. His voice is deep and striking, his Russian accent impossible to hide.

"I misplaced it," I replied in a clipped tone.

His brows furrowed as his jaws clenched in unmistakable signs of anger but he masked it quickly and his face returned to its initial aloof expression.

"I now pronounce you Mr and Mrs Ivanov. You may now kiss the bride" The priest declared.

My eyes darted quickly to Adriko's in panic, wondering if he was going to kiss me.

He leaned forward, maneuvering me expertly in a classic dip that to onlookers, appeared like we were in a lip lock.

He stared deeply into my eyes and smirked.

"Mrs Ivanova, he murmured, his voice mocking, were you expecting a kiss?"

My eyes widened a fraction as the reality of being called Mrs Ivanova registers within me and I push lightly on his chest, which make him straighten with a final cutting remark whispered into my ear.

"Smile", he teased "The people are watching."

We turned and faced the guests. Cheers and applause broke out across the fields.

I fixed a tight smile on my face as guests began to troop forward offering their congratulations.

Diana and Tessa rushed towards me, taking turns to hug me and plant kisses on my cheeks.

As we moved towards the entrance to the indoor reception, the sound of a clear feminine voice rang out from behind us.

"Adrik!" the voice called out.

I turned towards the source, my eyes landing on a strikingly beautiful woman making her way towards us.

She was quite tall and moved gracefully, her brunette mane falling down her back in loose waves and a sharp jawline that bore a striking resemblance to Adriko's frames her face.

Her lips curved into a sly smile as she approached us, her emerald green dress, shimmering with every step she took.

"Irina" Adriko greeted in surprise "Didn't think you were going to make it"

"I was able to get a last-minute flight," she explained while throwing her arms around him, pressing a kiss to each cheek before stepping back "It's been too long brother."

Adriko's expression softened slightly, the first glimpse of warmth I have seen all day.

He looked towards me, his hand tightening slightly on my waist "Serafina, this is my sister Irina Ivanova"

Irina's gaze swept over me, assessing me with interest. She extends a well-manicured hand, her practiced smile polite "It's a pleasure to meet you, Serafina. My brother has spoken-very little about you"

"Likewise" I replied, my tone guarded. I took her hand, taking note of her firm grip.

" Excellent" Her smile widened though it didn't quite reach her eyes "We would have to fix that as soon as possible. There's so much I would love to learn about my sister-in-law".

Before I could respond, Adriko stiffened beside me staring straight ahead at a man, dressed in black standing near the entrance to the main doors.

"What is he doing here?" he questioned in an icy tone of voice that sent shivers down my spine.