Disclaimer: If I owned Stravaganza I would be Mary Hoffman. I don't own Stravaganza. You better know at least one more person I am not!
Rodolfo stood, waiting. How long has it been since he no longer had to worry of the di Chimici? After he graduated from the university in Padavia? His mind was free… for now. But how long would it last?
Grand Duke Niccolo had died not long ago, through his own treachery. Soon they would regroup and he would have to worry again, but that didn't matter now. Now was a time free from worry and sadness, a time for happiness and joy.
Since he presented himself at the Scuola Mandoliera he had never been with Silvia openly. Many knew they were together, but it was never the same. Never could he hold her hand or walk next to her in peace. Never could he hand her to and fro a mandola… at least that was what he thought.
The secret marriage had led him to turmoil, despair, and a daughter he had never known. The hardest was doubts that the women he loved with all his heart and never truly loved him at all.
He knew better now. He and Silvia loved each other with all their hearts and that love would never end. Despite the fact that she lived in Padavia there love was just as strong.
Now he stood. Ready to take his wife in his arms and not care who knew. Today was there second wedding, and nothing could ruin it.
Finally…
There are together.