I can slide it between his ribs while he thinks he's claiming me.
The thought makes my lips curve into what onlookers probably mistake for a bride's shy smile.
Alessandro's grip tightens on my arm, as if he can sense my murderous thoughts.
Does he know?
Can he tell I'm already plotting my husband's demise before I've even said "I do"?
I don't care. After tonight, I'll be free.
Alessandro leans in as we reach the altar. "Stay strong," he whispers, his lips brushing my cheek in a cold farewell.
His words feel like mockery as he places my hand in Maksim's.
Maksim's fingers close around mine.
His touch makes my skin crawl, but I force a smile.
Just a few more hours of this farce.
I catch Adriano's gaze from the front row.
His jaw is tight, body rigid.
He doesn’t like this, but he does nothing about it.
Luca sits beside him, equally as tense.
I notice Katerina and little Enzo aren’t here.
But why would they be?
This isn’t a celebration.
It’s a business transaction.
I scan the crowd once more, knowing Cristian isn't here but unable to stop myself from looking.
My heart aches for him.
I miss his strength, his tenderness, the way he looked at me like I was a precious gift.
The minister’s words drone on. "…two shall become one flesh.”
I catch Alessandro checking his watch, perhaps wondering how much longer until this business transaction is complete.
Adriano's gaze remains fixed on some distant point, deliberately avoiding my eyes.
The guests shift in their seats.
The minister clears his throat. "If anyone can show just cause why this couple cannot lawfully be joined together in matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."
The customary silence follows.
It’s an awkward moment of the ritual where no one ever actually speaks, but there’s the fear that someone might.
"I object."
