He kissed her cheek. “With you, Athena Cavalese, I expect the sky would be the limit.”
~4~
“She’s right. You are a romantic fool. Emphasis on fool,” Nandi leaned closer to Liam at the small round table. They were enjoying espresso in a nearby cafe before heading to the warehouse that morning.
“Think on this, Li.”
“I have, Ric.”
Nandi regarded his cup thoughtfully. “Since you’ve shared all this with me, do I take it that you seek my counsel or are you at least giving me permission to speak freely about your intended?”
“I am, but just know I’ve considered every argument you could bring my way. This is happening, Ric but I’d still like a confidant, you know?”
Nandi grinned. “You’re already anticipating the need to discuss marital issues before the marriage, uh?” He sighed. “I suppose I could stand seeing my oldest and best friend happily joined in marriage.”
“How about believing your oldest and best friend is happy?”
“Ah paesan...” Nandi raised his cup in toast. “Seeing will be believing.”
***
One week later, Liam and Nandi were once again patronizing what had become their new favorite cafe. That Saturday, their roles were as groom and best man. The nuptials had taken place at the Catholic church not far from the cafe. Liam’s movie star looks paired well with the fine white linen suit he sported. Not to be outdone, Athena appeared equally radiant in a frothy white gown of satin and chiffon.
The bodice molded to her still slender form. Aside from the additional cleavage brought on by pregnancy, she was showing no further signs of her condition. The event was well attended with only a few guests actually knowing the bride and groom.
It didn’t matter. A fine time was had by all as much of Bleecker Street gathered to witness the union of Mr. and Mrs. Liam Tesano.
~~~
The newlyweds shared a thick slice of their wedding cake at the long table set at the front of the cafe before their guests.
“Are you happy?” Liam asked.
“More than,” Athena pressed her nose to his cheek. “Grazi,” she whispered.
“Hey?” Gently, he eased her back to search her eyes with his. “I didn’t do any of this for gratitude. I love you.”
“I love you too, Liam,” she smiled when his rich brown eyes widened in surprise. “I think I have since the day I ran into your arms in that field. I’ll be better for you, Liam. I swear.”
“Shh...” he urged, wanting nothing to shadow their day.
The newlyweds were in the midst of a kiss when a long whistle and hearty laughter interrupted them.
“Liam?” Athena winced when her husband’s grip on her hand turned crushing. Her expression sharpened when she noticed the steely edge in his gaze. She followed the glare, gasping as the sight of the four men before the table.
“What in hell,” Liam breathed to the result of more laughter.
They were all tall, dark and insanely handsome, Athena thought. She knew who they were before any introductions were made. Silently, she marveled over the enviable genes Luca and Constanza Tesano must have possessed to create such a brood.
Though displaying a range of heights and builds, not one lacked in the looks department. They ranged from Adonis beautiful to ruggedly gorgeous. Two were stunning mirror images of each other. The one who had laughed the loudest spread his arms as he moved behind the table.
“Did you think we’d miss seeing our brother take his vows?” He bellowed.
A second man moved in then. “We know this must be a shock, Li. Us showing up after all these years. You must be wondering how we found you?”
“Not really,” Liam said. “Tesano isn’t a common name especially among Northern Italians.”
One of the twins laughed. “Still a smart bastard,” he said.
“Obviously,” this from the loud one behind the table. His unexpectedly green eyes were fixed on Athena.
With a sigh, Liam stood to greet the hovering dark rogue. “Gia,” he said.
Giaimo Tesano’s laughter stirred once more as he tugged Liam into a fierce embrace.
Upon his release from the bear hold, Liam turned to his bride. “Athena, this is my older brother Giaimo. My younger brothers Toriano and Micalino. My eldest brother Emilio.”
Athena beamed. “I’m so happy to meet you all and happy to know Liam has real family in America.”
“We’re now your family too, Bellissima,” Emilio said.
“And new family should get to kiss the bride,” Giaimo decided and swooped in to draw Athena up high and place a kiss square on her mouth.
Laughter followed as well as more hugs and kisses for the bride and groom.
~~~
The reception lasted well into the evening hours. Once Liam introduced his brothers to his friends, the event adopted a whole other celebratory excitement. Drinks abounded as everyone got acquainted.
