APOV
I watched Matteo pace the bottom of the plane steps, waiting for a car to come. Although many cars had passed the entrance to the road that led to the airfield, none had come our way.
Matteo had told Chiara, he had no choice he felt. She had to know what she was getting into before things went too far for them.
Matteo had only told her a little about the family, about some of the rumours that were true. He didn't go into any real detail, none of the boys had. Ava knew more, because of her family but even she was kept far away from the main business. More information would only come after marriage.
I could hear him mumbling that she wasn't coming, and my heart broke for him.
"Ana come and sit down" Christian told me, but I couldn't. "Princess what are you doing."
I had taken a step down, wanting to go to him when I saw the pain in his eyes. It had taken me forever to get up here, but I would go down on my bum if I had to.
"Ana, please stop."
"She has to come Christian" I told him, as he wrapped his arm around my waist, bringing me to the top again.
"We all want that Ana, but this life is not for everyone. Matteo did the right thing by telling her. It's up to Chiara to choose now, if being with our son is worth the risk."
We all turned, hearing a car approach the gate, which was quickly waved through. I think my heart jumped in my chest when it stopped by our cars and Chiara got out.
"You came" Matteo told her.
"I had to."
"But your car, you're not coming with us" he said, as they walked closer to each other.
"I am, I want to. I don't know what I will do with this, but I didn't know how else to get here."
As Christian and I turned to go back into the plane, Matteo pulled Chiara into his arms.
"Mum no tears" Lucy complained as we took our seats.
"Shush you, I'm a mother so it's allowed."
We waited a few minutes until Matteo and Chiara entered the cabin. I don't think I have ever seen my son so happy or relieved before, than I have in this moment. It's been over three months since my birthday and I know that they have been together over two. He loves our family and the life and business that we do but I know having this secret that he has kept from her, has been hanging over his head like a noose. He spoke to her yesterday, giving her a chance to walk away but I'm happy that she has made the right choice.
I know Christian will keep an eye on her, it's just the way he is with newcomers that enter the family. If she ever does something to upset my son though, it will be me she has to deal with, not him. Chiara's a sweet girl though, maybe too quiet for this family. She will adapt though, we all do.
As the doors were closed and the plane finally left the ground, all eyes turned to me.
"I'm beginning to feel like I'm in a zoo. Stop it the lot of you."
"Even me" Christian whispered.
"No, you're allowed to look after me and do your thorough checks. You would make an amazing doctor."
I could hear some laughs at my comment but the more pronounced were the groans from our children.
"If anything hurts, I will lie down. I have two doctors, beside myself on this plane and two nurses. I will be fine" I told everyone.
"You tell them girl" Giulia called from the back where she was sat with Dante, already a glass of wine in hand.
"This is going to be a mad couple of weeks" Christian told me.
"Just be thankful that the only people who are staying with us are our children and their partners. We could've had an even fuller house if my Dad and Isabella hadn't offered them a place."
"Thank god for small mercies" he laughed as I rested my head on his shoulder.
I had slept for a little while before walking the entire length of the plane with my cane in hand. I wasn't in pain so to speak, it was more like my body ached. It was a good way to speak to everyone and hear about what is going on in their lives.
Autumn was crawling all over the dog's but they didn't mind. They continued to sleep for the most part.
"She's into everything now" Max told me. "I can't keep up with her."
"Try keeping up with two at the same time, especially when they go off in opposite directions" I said, laughing as I picked Autumn up, when she clung to my leg.
Sitting with Valentina and Garret, I looked at the pictures from their honeymoon that they had brought.
I know Luca is taking Oriella to Venice for a few days on the 26th, before having a longer honeymoon when we're back home again. I think he's worried that the twins will come early and be born far away from home. From the latest scan though, they're happy and healthy where they are.
"I have never been to Italy before. I have never really been out of the States" Chiara told us as the landing lights came on.
"You will love it Chiara. My first trip out of the States was to Sicily too" I told her.
We had a smooth landing which was a relief, considering all the snow that was around. Rosie was sleeping in my Grandma's lap as the other dogs lay on the floor. Sprout who was getting better at travelling was only sick once, but that is progress as far as I'm concerned.
When we stopped, everyone started to collect their things. The dogs were out of the door, the second they were opened, barking as they made their way down the stairs. I thought Rosie might need a little help, but she was running after the others.
"I think my men would be shocked if a plane containing our family landed here and there were no dogs" Mac laughed.
"They're family, they should be expected" Christian told him as we slowly made our way down the steps.
No one rushed me, which is good for them otherwise they would've gotten a cane up their arse. I reached the floor under my own steam, which I was proud of.
"On a scale of one to ten, how much pain are you in and you know you can't lie to me for shit Princess."
"When have I ever lied to you, so you could test me" I asked, turning to my husband.
"Ok, you have me there. Are you in pain."
"No, I'm not" I told him, and he knew it was the truth. "I do ache but I'm not in pain. One of your massages should help."
"Consider it done" he told me, kissing my lips before he helped me into a waiting car.
I loved the journey from the airfield to our home, memories coming to me as we pass places that we had not only spent time in but had a lot of fun in over the years. It's cold here now, more snow forecasted but it will not disrupt Luca and Oriella's day. We will see to that, even if we have to get out the shovels ourselves.
Passing through the little town of Caccamo, I had a sense of being home. Mum was here and despite the weather, I wanted to spend some time with her.
Lifting my locket, that had been hidden beneath my sweater, I kissed the worn surface.
I felt Christian's lips on my forehead as I lay with my head against his arm.
"Come with me" I asked him, feeling his nod.
As the cars split off, we waved to my Grandparents, Grace and Carrick as well as Claire and Eamon who were staying with them. My sisters and their families were staying with Mac and Sofia, so they were the next to leave our convoy of cars. As we pulled into our driveway, I waved to my Dad as they continued on. We wouldn't be apart for too long but I'm glad they can all get back to a bit of normality by being home again.
"They're all staying here when we leave aren't they" Lucy asked.
"They are sweetheart. They have their lives here as we have ours in Seattle."
"Would you ever let me come on my own" she asked as Christian whipped his head around to her. "God Dad, I'm talking about coming to stay with Granddad, not backpacking around Italy on my own."
"You know how I am with your security Lucy. Especially with what happened."
"I know Dad. I know you have work in Seattle, you both do, and I know for us to come here, a lot of planning needs to be done back home. It would be nice to come more than twice a year though, maybe spend a bit of the summer here. I know a lot of the time you can't get away, but maybe I can."
"We will talk about it Lucy" I told her.
"Yes, when your thirty" Christian teased, getting a dig in his side from our daughter.
The dogs ran free as soon as they were let out of the cars. The boys have been here many times before, but the girls were a bit hesitant to stray too far from us.
Stepping into the house, it was clean and airy. My Granddad always has one of his staff clean here before we come but having my Grandparents with us for so long, they would've had their house to clean too. A Christmas tree was all set up in the corner, which I knew in a few days, would be surrounded by Gifts.
"Fridge is full so we're all right for a few days" Luca declared.
"You and your stomach" I told him as he moved away from the fridge, so I could see what was there. Having no Isabella, Sofia or Grandma here, I was back on cooking duty again.
"Few days. We have enough food for weeks, if you all ate like a normal family."
"We're not normal" Christian told me, pulling a beer from the fridge.
"I knew that the minute I met Grace. I'm afraid you're all on cooking duty tonight unless you order something. I'm sitting down."
"Ana" Christian questioned, as to if I was ok.
"I'm fine, just stiff remember."
"I'll order Pizza" Theo told us, and pizza was fine by me.
Within thirty minutes, pizza boxes were arriving at my door and just as quickly, the pizza inside started to disappear.
"It seems funny eating Pizza in Italy. It's nice, like I'm having real pizza instead of what we have at home" Chiara said smiling.
"The boys eat a lot of it" Lucy told her, "As for Italy, the food here is amazing."
"Are you alright" I asked Chiara.
She had been quieter than I was used to, barely interacting with the conversation.
Leaving Seattle yesterday, I don't know who had slept on the plane, but I suppose most had. With it being afternoon now, maybe she's just tired.
"Yes, I'm fine Ana. Matteo said..."
"What did he tell you."
"He was talking about Christian, about the people who hurt you."
I nodded, already knowing the details from when Matteo returned home upset.
"The main thing you should know about the Grey's, the Mancini's and the Lambert's is that we're a family, a very close one. Above all else, no matter what happens outside of our home, that is what we are. My husband goes to work, just as I did. He runs many legal businesses as well as having other business dealings on the side."
"I remember reading years ago, the cops trying to pin something on Christian and it blew up in their faces. People trafficking, I think it was. I couldn't associate that with the people who I met in the hospital."
"People trafficking, our family would never do that. Has Matteo ever told you about my mother."
"He said she was no longer with us, but he didn't say why" she said, quietly.
"Let me tell you about her then."
Chiara sat quietly as I told her about my start in life, my mother and how I found so much love and happiness with Christian. Talking about my childhood always brings the tears, so I was soon reaching for the tissues and I wasn't alone.
"Have you ever" she asked, and I knew what she was asking. If I had taken a life.
"I have protected my family. I'm a mother, I will do anything for my children, even if that means taking a bullet or delivering one."
Her reaction was not what I expected, as she laughed.
"You were always the quiet doctor. The one who sips her tea as we all explain our aches and pains. I can't picture you any other way."
"It's a rare occasion that I'm in that situation but it happens. If you have children one day, especially in this family, you will know how I feel about protecting them."
She nodded her head, as my boys entered the room.
"Mum is a quiet one, until you piss her off" Matteo told Chiara, kissing her forehead.
"Yeah If you see Mum in the Gym, then you will know how tough she is" Theo told her, sitting beside Ava.
"You boys are doing nothing to help me convince Chiara that I'm not some Lara Croft, shooting up the place."
They all laughed, especially when I shouted for the dogs to sort the boys out. I received a grunt which is all I was getting.
"Just remember, I can catch you all when you wind me up. Well I used to anyway."
"You still will Mum, take your time" Theo told me as Christian joined us with Rosie under his arm.
"Ana, what's wrong" he asked, seeing my red eyes.
"I'm fine Christian. I'm ready for that massage and an early night I think."
"If springs start squeaking, I'm going to stay with Granddad or Great Grandma and Granddad."
"You do remember who's staying with Great Grandma don't you. Granddad Carrick and Grandma Grace" Theo teased her, especially laughing at the look of horror on Lucy's face.
Was it only months ago that we were in Chicago. It feels like a lifetime ago sometimes.
We said goodnight to the children and made sure the dogs were settled before Christian and I went up to our room.
"Are you ready for my massage" he asked.
"Any chance I can get your hands on my body Christian, I will take" I told him, as he locked the doors behind us.
"Princess" he groaned.
Although we're together all the time and we kiss constantly, it has never gone further than that. I honestly think Christian is scared of hurting me, so I think it's time for me to take charge.
I let him remove my clothes before I lay in the middle of the bed.
"Ana, I will massage those breasts that are staring at me but turn over first."
I did what I was told and turned onto my front, getting comfortable. I felt his lips on the scar that had been left behind from my childhood before he placed a kiss to each of the new ones that were there. They do not upset me like they do my children. I'm a survivor and to me, they show me that I'm still here.
Christian's hands on my back, had me groaning loudly. His gentle touch had me moaning and giggling when he decided to rub my feet.
"Turn over Ana" he eventually told me.
I turned to face him, receiving a kiss to my lips before he kissed the scar in my side that was now there.
"I'm not hiding them" I told Christian.
"You don't need to Ana. You only tried to cover the first so as not to upset the children. We all know what happened to you Ana and we know how strong you are to still be here. Now your scars are kissed, I think these two are beckoning me for some attention too."
"Are you going to tease me" I asked, laughing when he nodded his head. "How are you not asleep yet" I asked him.
"I slept a little on the plane. I will sleep more when I know you're ok and not hurting."
"Come here" I told him, holding my arms out to him, but he shook his head.
"I have a massage to finish. If I lie down, I will not get up again until morning."
He massaged my arms and legs before moving to my stomach. He did massage my breast but only after kissing them first.
"All finished" he declared, finally lying down by my side.
"Thank you. I needed that, my back needed that now it's your turn."
I pushed on his shoulder, carefully straddling him as he lay back on the bed.
"Princess, what are you doing."
"There was one spot that wasn't massaged" I told him as his hands went to my hips.
"Ana, I don't want you to get hurt."
"I won't. Relax and enjoy" I told him before gripping his cock.
Christian was trying not to move, as my hand moved up and down him. Moving into position, I slowly sunk down on his cock.
"Fuck Ana, are you ok."
"I'm… shit this feels good" I groaned, grounding down on him.
I didn't really move, not that I could anyway. It was the connection that we both needed at this moment, being together again like this. I did gently rock over him and it was enough to bring us closer, having been so long since we were like this. Christian's eyes closed for a moment, as he absorbed the pleasure we were both feeling.
"Princess, you're bringing me closer" he groaned, opening his eyes.
"Both of us" I cried as I fell over the edge, taking him with me.
Within moments Christian had moved me onto my back as he hovered over me. He brushed the tears from my cheeks as I did his. Being able to make love again had been emotional for us both but despite my aches and pains, it was time.
"I love you Ana" he told me, sniffling.
"I love you. No more waiting."
"No, but we still need to take it easy" he said, brushing his fingers down my cheek.
"I know. Sleep now, I know you're exhausted. We have a busy few days ahead of us until the wedding."
Watching Christian sleep, like he had done with me many times over the past few months, I brushed a tear away. We were here in Caccamo, home as it has become over the years. If I'm honest with myself when I felt the first bullet hit, it was a place I didn't think I would ever see again.
"Sleep Princess" he mumbled, holding me closer to him.
I smiled. Even when he was asleep, he knew I wasn't.
….
"This brings back a lot of memories" Christian said as we stepped inside the church.
"I know. Our wedding feels like yesterday sometimes but then I look around at our children and it feels like a lifetime ago."
"The best day of my life" he told me. "Followed closely by the birth of our children."
"It will be our Grand children's birth next" I said, nodding to Oriella and Luca who were making their way towards the priest.
"I know, I'm looking forward to it, although I'm not looking forward to the grey hairs that having two extra girls in the house will bring."
"We're not that bad" I told him, receiving a look that asked if I was kidding.
I laughed, walking ahead of him as our children and the priest turned to us.
"What's funny" Luca asked me.
"Just your Dad contemplating old age" I told them, shaking hands with the priest.
"Welcome, it's so lovely to see you all back here and it's especially joyful to see you Anastasia. We have said many prayers over the past few months, and you being here now, they have been answered."
"Thank you" I told him, feeling Christian's arm wrap around my waist.
I sat down as the priest went through the service once my other sons had arrived. My job in the proceedings was to be the crying mother and we hadn't even gotten through the rehearsal and the tears were coming.
"Everyone is to have a hanky in their pocket on Saturday for Mum" Matteo said.
"Shush you" I told him, making even the priest laugh as I stuck my tongue out to my son.
When everyone was happy with the rehearsal, we went our separate ways. Lucy had gone to my Dads with the dogs, so we will see them all soon.
While the boys were going to meet Ava and Chiara, Luca and Oriella were going to Isabella's bakery to finalise the details of the cake. I had sat down with them to design the cake that they wanted but it will be Isabella who is making it for them. There is nothing more I want, than to do it but standing around for hours baking and then all the detail that we had agreed on, it will be too much for me, not to mention take too long.
Christian and I drove to my Grandparents house, parking outside their door. We were welcomed by my grandparent's housekeeper, who told us they were on the hill.
"Thank you" I told her as Christian and I turned away from the house, taking the well-worn path.
"She's here Carlotta" I heard my Grandmother say as we approached them, taking a seat by her side.
"Hi Mum, it was good to see you. It's good to be here."
I remember when I was sleeping, I could feel her nearby. I could see her, see Hugo but I think that was my mind keeping active, keeping me here. I always said that Mum sent Hugo to me, at a time when we needed each other the most. It's a nice thought to think that they are together now, protecting me like they always have.
"Hi Carlotta" Christian greeted my mother.
"I was just telling my daughter how proud I am of her own daughter" Grandma said, gripping my hand. "How happy I am that you're still here."
"I don't plan on going anywhere Grandma for a very long time."
"I'm glad. I'm going to hold you to that" she told me as she stood, kissing my cheek. "We will let you have some time with your Mum, I know you have a lot of catching up to do."
I watched my retreating Grandparents before I turned back to the headstone in front of me, leaning into Christian's side.
"You're going to be a Great Grandma Mum. Oriella and Luca are expecting two little girls. I know you will love them and guide them along the way. This Saturday they're getting married, my little boy married. He has an amazing head on his shoulders and always knew Oriella was right for him."
I talked to my Mum, telling her what had been happening since I last spoke to her. My body was starting to ache a little, but I wasn't ready to leave yet.
"How did your conversation go with Chiara. You had been crying" Christian asked me when I had been quiet for a while.
"Well, I hope. She knows a little and I told her about Mum and my childhood. She had heard that we traffic people and I think hearing about Mum and what happened to take her away from here and this family, helped push those thoughts away. She also knows I will protect this family no matter the cost."
"I don't want you in front of a bullet again Ana" he told me.
"I didn't have a choice. The alternative doesn't bear thinking about."
"I know, our daughter. Shit.. sorry Carlotta, mind my language."
I laughed looking between my mother's grave and Christian. I can guarantee my Mum was as bad as Mac at cursing like a sailor, so I don't think she would've been worried about the word shit.
I closed my eyes, enjoying the breeze. It was cold but as I was wrapped up warm, it was not too bad.
"Are you ok Ana. I don't want you getting sick."
"I'm fine, happy to be here."
"I'm happy to see you here Ana. I know what being close to your Mum means to you."
"I think that's why Luca wanted their wedding in Caccamo. It's not just about Christmas Eve, it's because being here we are close to his Grandma and she is included in the day. Luca has ordered some extra flowers to be blessed, just so he and Oriella can lay them here."
"There will be plenty of time for us all to come and visit while we're here" he told me, brushing a snowflake away that had landed on my nose. "Let's get you back inside before you're sneezing all the way through the wedding."
I took his hand, rising from the bench. Kissing my hand, I placed it on top of the gravestone.
"I will be back soon Mum" I told her before we made our way back to the house.
…
"Where are the dogs" Grandma asked as I sipped my tea.
"With Dad. He was looking after them all today as we didn't know how long we would be at the church."
Pulling my phone from my purse, I sent him a message letting him know where we were.
Thank god. Rosie is an escapologist. I will bring them round. Xx – Dad
I laughed reading the message. None of the dogs could escape from our garden at home as it was surrounded by high walls and protected. Dad had hedges all around and although there were no holes big enough for the Neo's to get out, little Rosie was another matter entirely.
That's fine Dad. I've just been to see Mum and now I'm having tea with Grandma. Xx – Ana.
Ok sweetheart, see you soon xx – Dad.
"Is he having fun" Grandma asked.
"Rosie is trying to escape the garden."
"That little one causes much more trouble than the others put together. "
"I think it's because we're used to large dogs and Rosie can hide amongst them, making her mischief less noticeable until you either step in something or you stumble upon the mess."
Dad arrived with Lucy and the dogs who were soon exploring the house.
"Was she really that bad" I asked Dad as he put Rosie in my lap.
"She was exploring the bottom of the garden where it's raised and managed to get herself caught trying to get through the hedge. She was squealing but Lucy was no good. She was too busy laughing at the little backside that was protruding from the hedge."
"It was so funny Mum" Lucy laughed.
"I bet Rosie didn't think so but then again, I don't think she has any fear and will only do it again. Won't you girl" I said, getting a licked nose.
We had dinner at my Grandparents as we all came together. It was a squeeze to get around the table, especially with all my long-legged nephews here, but it was a fun noisy night.
…
I took a last look in the mirror, checking my hair and make-up. I had spent the morning going between Oriella and Luca and I don't know who was more nervous. I think I was the last to get ready but now that I was, I think I looked alright. Yes, I still had the cane, which had now been wrapped in lace, courtesy of my daughter but I would rather have it, than do without for the day.
"Mum are you ready" Luca asked, from the other side of my bedroom door.
"Come in son" I called to him.
He opened the door, coming in to stand by my side.
"You look beautiful Mum."
"You look very handsome son" I said, turning to him and straightened his tie. "My youngest boy is getting married."
"I'm so glad you're here Mum" he whispered.
"Oh Luca. It would take a hell of a lot more than a bullet, to make me miss my son's wedding."
"No more" he smiled, kissing my cheek.
"I hope not. Now is everything ready."
"Yes, we were just waiting for you."
"Ok, would you like to escort your mother to the church then."
He held his arm out for me to take, leading me from my room and to the waiting car. Lucy would be going with Christian and Oriella, while my other sons and their partners were following us down. The rest of our family would already be there.
Luca was quiet as Ian drove us to the church, no doubt trying to calm his nerves. Oriella and Lucy had stayed with my Dad last night, so they would be taking the same route that I had taken on my own wedding day.
Stopping at the church, my Dad came over to the car to help me out.
"Thank you" I said, receiving a smile and a kiss to my cheek.
"You look beautiful sweetheart."
I smiled, taking his arm this time as we made our way into the church. We passed family and friends, many in this community that I have known for years. All had come here to celebrate this day with us, all that knew my children and have watched them grow up.
"Mum are you ok" Theo asked, coming over to our pew where my dad and I had taken a seat.
"I'm fine, loving this cushion that just happened to be here" I laughed, moving it behind me to get more comfortable.
"That would be Dad" he told me. "You know what he's like."
"Yes, I do."
The small church was full, not really a seat to be had on this cold winters day. The snow had fallen last night, but it wasn't enough to worry any of us. As well as the flowers that had been brought in for today, we also had the large Christmas tree that stood in the corner.
With everything that has happened, I feel like Christmas has crept up on me. My gift shopping has all be done on line and my children have picked up everything that I had asked them to do. Dinner will be done by Grace, Claire and my sisters tomorrow so although I have no chance of a lie-in, at least I don't have to rush about to get dinner started.
When the priest told us to stand, I stood as the music started to play. Lucy came down the aisle first, followed by Oriella and Christian. There was no doubt she was pregnant; my Grandchildren were certainly growing and were a perfect part of this day. I smiled as they passed, earning a wink from my husband as they finally reached Luca.
The service started as Christian came to take a seat at my side. When the priest asked who gave Oriella to Luca, it was both of us who spoke.
The service was beautiful and felt like it was over in the blink of any eye. My eyes, full of tears throughout.
Seeing the smile on both of their faces as they were pronounced man and wife, brought so much joy to me. I laughed when it was Oriella who kissed Luca, when he was told he could kiss his bride.
"Typical woman, sees what she wants and takes it" Christian laughed, before I shut him up with my own kiss.
As the register was signed, we moved outside to take photos. That didn't last long as the snow started to fall once more, and I was ordered by all of my children to get into the warmth.
Luca and Oriella were leaving in the car she had arrived in, as Christian and Lucy joined me in mine.
We were all going back to my Grandparents as they had the biggest house. Unlike my reception which was held in the garden, this time all the rooms down stairs had been cleared and tables set up for our guests.
Back at the house, we moved out onto the terrace. Granddad had heaters set up, as we wanted to attempt to have some photos out here.
I watched the photographer take photos of Luca and Oriella, my favourite as he held her from behind, his hands on her bump. Despite their age, they're both proud of the lives they have created. Christian and I took many photos with them as well as watching while some were taken of all our children together. When they were all done, I was happy to escape inside the warmth.
"Tell me why you decided to get married in December" Matteo asked his twin.
"Because Christmas Eve is a special day in this family and we married here for many reasons, one being close to Grandma" Luca told him before turning to his wife. "Do you still want to go."
"Of course," she told him.
I knew they were going to take the flowers up to my Mum. Granddad had, had the path cleared and gritted so it was hopefully safe for Oriella to walk on. Luca will look after her up there and hopefully they won't stay too long if these few flakes of snow that are falling, turn into a blizzard.
"Have the tears stopped Ana" Christian asked me.
"For now. I'm sure there will be more by the end of the day" I told him.
The house had quickly filled up with our family and the few friends that had been invited. Luca and Oriella had the small wedding that they wanted, but with our large family here, it was our kind of small.
"When is the food coming out" CJ asked.
"You don't stop eating" Jac tease him.
"Ha, look who's talking."
"Oh, isn't it nice to have all the family together" Grace laughed, telling her Grandsons to sit down and shut up.
When Luca and Oriella returned, everyone clapped to welcome them. They removed their coats, handing them over to the housekeeper before taking their seats.
"It's lovely visiting Grandma but my god it's cold up there" Luca told us, holding his wife's chair out for her.
"Order, Order" Matteo called out, standing to get everyone's attention, when we were all seated.
"Who do you think you are, a fucking judge" Theo said making everyone laugh.
"Not fucking lightly. Now before we say a few words, we will hand you over to our dad, father of the bride and groom."
"Good luck" I told him as he kissed my cheek before standing.
"Please excuse my sons. They are not usually this vulgar with their language."
"Bullshit" John shouted, getting told to shush by Rhian who was bouncing Autumn in her lap.
"If you know me, you will know this will be short and sweet. I wanted to thank you Oriella for giving me the honour that I had today. At this point I should be welcoming you to the family as my son's wife, but you have always been here. You have always been a daughter to Ana and me, always been by my son's side. So today instead of welcoming you to a family that is already yours, I will welcome you as the newest Grey. To Oriella Grey" Christian said, raising his glass to her. "To Luca and Oriella, I hope your lives are filled with love, laughter and happiness. To Luca and Oriella."
I raised my own glass, as the tears fell again.
"I am unfortunately going to hand you over to my sons now, good luck everyone."
"Thanks dad" Matteo said, happily standing with Theo. "Being joint best man with my brother, we both put forward what we wanted to say today about Luca. Some things, mainly my suggestions were quashed earlier on after being reminded that our sisters were in the room and also Mum was here. She might not be able to move fast at the moment, but Mum's still armed and dangerous."
"What Matteo is saying is we're leaving the vulgar talk for when everyone has had too much to drink later on and no one gives a shit what anyone's saying."
"Here here" Matteo agreed as they clinked glasses.
"Since the age of three when Luca tried to stop the little girl in his pre-k class from kissing him by chasing her with his bogies, we knew it was love. As he watched Oriella grow into a beautiful woman, he knew he had made an earlier mistake and it was his turn to chase her."
"Luca told our parents at the age of ten that he would marry her some day and that day is today" Matteo smiled to Luca and Oriella. "I thought he was crazy when he said he had met the one, but he was right."
Watching my children interact, my tears came again. Christian passed me the handkerchief from his breast pocket which I happily took.
They teased their brother, made the room laugh. Nothing they said, I didn't already know. As they finally toasted to their brother and new sister, I think Luca had been let off lightly and he was certainly happy with that.
We had an Italian feast brought out, filling the tables before us. It had been catered on site and we had smelt it when we had arrived. Having it all here before us now, we were surrounded with the aromas of home.
"Do you have the papers" Christian whispered in my ear as I put my cutlery down.
"They're in my purse. Do you want to do it now?"
"Before the music starts and we can't hear ourselves think."
I brought the paperwork from my purse handing them to Christian. Getting Luca and Oriella's attention, he gave it to them.
"What is this" Luca asked us.
"Your wedding gift from your Dad and me. You will have to open it, if you want to find out what it is."
He opened the envelope, revealing the deeds to the house we had purchased recently.
"Oh my god, this was Mavis and Jim's house."
"Yes, and now it's yours. It's a little dated and is being cleared out while we're here. It will be a blank canvas when you arrive back, so you can choose not only what you want on the walls or the furnishings but what bathrooms and kitchen you want as well" Christian told them.
"Mum, Dad, thank you" Luca told us, kissing my cheek before he hugged us both.
"Thank you both" Oriella said.
"You're welcome. We wanted to give you a place of your own that is close if you need our help but still give you the privacy you won't get at our house. I hope you will stay with us for a while yet though, until you're settled with the babies."
"We plan on it Mum" Luca laughed, relieved that we weren't just giving them a house and expecting them to leave.
I would be happy if none of my family ever left home but they have that house waiting for them when they're ready.
By the time Luca and Oriella left that night, I was exhausted. We had all danced, although I had to sit down often. I had watched them cut the cake, only for Oriella to push a little on Luca's face. He laughed, taking some buttercream and put it on her lips before kissing it away.
I had flowers from my children as a thank you for helping them with the wedding, bringing yet more tears. It was a beautiful day and I was so happy that I had been able to be a part of it.
"No more tears Ana, you're wearing me out" Christian told me, as we made our way up to our bedroom. My poor husband has been panicking every time he sees a tear, thinking I am in pain.
"These are happy tears for our children Christian. I can guarantee there will be more when our Grandchildren arrive."
"Happy tears I can deal with. Sad ones make me want to go out and kill those who have caused them."
"You already have Christian. Just know that if ever I have shed a tear of sorrow, you have made the reason go away."
Stood in our bedroom, Christian wrapped his arms around me. With him holding me up, the cane was not needed.
"Our little boy is married and will soon be a father. Where has the time gone" he asked.
"I don't know. It's the next stage of their lives and I'm so glad I'm here to see it."
"So am I Ana, so am I."
Climbing into bed, he held me tightly as I cuddled into his chest.
"Ana."
"Mmm, Christian."
"Merry Christmas" he said, as I felt a kiss to my hair.
I looked to the clock, seeing it was just after midnight.
"Merry Christmas Christian."
…
Christmas was the usual noisy affair of gifts, shredded wrappings and squeaky toys. New Year was not much quieter. All in all, our time here was full of fun, laughter and the usual mischief from all the boys, the adults included. To me it was full of so much more than that, it was full of love and above all, family.
Thank you for reading.
Until next time, take care.
Caroline.