Chapter 61: The Most Dangerous Wedding

The announcement of Scarlett Whitmore and Alexander Moretti's engagement broke the internet before breakfast.

By noon, every society magazine in New York had published a version of the same headline: THE GODFATHER AND HIS HEIRESS.

Scarlett read one article aloud in Alexander's study. 'A union of power, scandal, redemption, and danger.'

Luca leaned against the doorway. 'They forgot good tailoring.'

Alexander did not look amused. 'They also forgot security risks.'

Scarlett smiled at her ring. The emerald caught the light like a secret flame. For years, rings had meant loss to her—her mother's stolen diamond, Victoria's cruel engagement, Ethan's cowardice. This ring felt different. It did not replace what had been taken. It marked what she had chosen.

Planning the wedding became a war of its own.

Grace wanted legal protection. Luca wanted armed exits. Dr. Cross wanted wheelchair access, rest breaks, and no dramatic staircase entrances. Alexander wanted everything private.

Scarlett wanted white roses.

'And music,' she said.

Alexander looked at her. 'We can arrange music.'

'And dancing.'

The room went quiet.

Scarlett lifted an eyebrow. 'Do not all look at me like I asked to fight a dragon.'

Dr. Cross folded her arms. 'A short dance may be possible with support.'

Alexander's expression changed, careful and tender. 'You do not have to prove anything at our wedding.'

'I know,' Scarlett said. 'That is why I want to do it.'

The wedding date was set for late spring at the lake house. Small guest list. Heavy security. No press.

That night, Scarlett stood in the therapy room with Alexander facing her. His hands hovered near her waist.

'If we are doing this,' Dr. Cross said, 'we train properly. No heroic nonsense.'

Luca muttered, 'That rule eliminates half this family.'

Scarlett took Alexander's hands.

One step.

Then another.

Her legs trembled. Alexander moved with her slowly, letting her set the pace. There was no ballroom, no gown, no audience.

Only the first rehearsal of a dance she had once believed impossible.

When she stumbled, he caught her.

When she laughed, he smiled.

And when she rested her forehead against his chest, Scarlett realized the wedding was not the ending of her story.

It was proof she had survived long enough to begin again.