Page 27 of Dangerous Intent

“Why is that?”

“You knew long before I did that this day was in our future.” He twirled the end of my hair around his finger. “Didn’t you?”

“I suppose I predicted that somewhere between throwing that box of cookies at you and you tossing my phone in the river.” I batted my lashes. “We were so charming together.”

“I’m grateful for your persistence.”

“You’re not calling it provocation anymore?”

“I’ve accepted it for what it is.”

“What’s that?”

“Destiny,” he whispered into my ear and clasped my hand in his. “Let’s make it official.”

“Wait.” I pulled back on his hand before he could lead me toward the judge and the beautiful archway of roses.

He looked over his shoulder. “We’re not going to fight now, are we?”

“No.” I kissed his cheek. “I don’t want to fight.”

“What do you want?”

“I want you to stand by the window and let me walk to you.” I motioned for Nico to come back. “Your father is going to give me away.”

“Oh.” He nodded. “I can do that.”

“Are we ready?” Nico asked as he fastened his arm in mine.

“Yes, I am.” I gazed into Marchello’s eyes. “I want to get married.”

Marchello’s lips curved into a half-smile before he abided by my request and went to the window. Milo stood at his side, and Ricardo waited to stand by mine.

“Welcome to the family.” Nico guided us toward my future and into the arms of the only man I would ever love.

After giving me to his son, he stepped back and stood near my mother, taking her hand as they both watched over us. Pride shone in their eyes.

I was about to become Mrs. Marchello Accetti. I had finally found a place where I belonged.

But that nagging, unsettled feeling wouldn’t dissipate. As happy as I was to be getting what I had wanted from the moment I realized I was in love with Marchello, I couldn’t ditch this menacing feeling…

What are these vows we’re about to pledge to one another going to cost us?

SEVEN

Marchello

I leanedagainst the back of the sofa in the living room, sipping vodka. Taking in Lissia’s elegance as she and Rosalie drank champagne and ate wedding cake put me at ease.

Could I keep that vibrant smile on her face for the rest of her life?

We just had to get through these turbulent times and rid ourselves of Collins.

Easier said than done.

I should have given her the wedding she deserved, not the quick nuptials we had exchanged in the secrecy of my father’s study. But it wasn’t about the wedding, right? We loved one another.

“Are you ready to take over the throne again?” Milo poured more vodka into my glass. “Dad’s leaving soon.”