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That’s why there’s no changing my mind.

They could hold a gun to my head and tell me not to, and I’d still say my vows to Genesis, not giving a shit if they pulled the trigger.

Darcy pulls Genesis into a tight hug. She dressed for the occasion in a light-pink dress, and her maroon-colored hair is pulled into some kind of updo. I asked her to keep this on the down-low and not to even tell Pippa.

“You look gorg, babe,” Darcy tells Genesis, holding her at arm’s length and eyeing her knee-length dress and sparkly heels.

“Thank you,” Genesis whispers to her before pinching her lips and shooting me a quick look. “Though I wishsomeonehad told me I was tying the knot. I’d definitely have chosen something else.”

“We’ll have another wedding,” I assure her. “This one is just paperwork.”

She raises a brow. “A contract type of paperwork? Tell me this one gets me out of the one my father signed.”

“This one makes you mine.” I grab her hand and lead her into the cathedral.

Darcy is behind us, chattering about the lack of a bachelorette party and how disappointed she is that she can’t throw Genesis one.

Low classical music drifts through the air when we enter the cathedral. The aroma of rich, sweet incense surrounds us. Lit candles line the altar and are situated on the piano, where a man is playing.

The lights are dimmed, giving off a Gothic vibe.

I’ve attended other weddings here.

They’re usually more cheerful, more alive, and brighter.

I didn’t want that.

I directed Father Jerome, saying that I wanted an intimate ceremony.

I’m not a man of cheer.

Darkness gives us monsters our peace.

Father Jerome stands tall at the base of the altar, waiting for us.

“Do we wait for ‘Here Comes the Bride’?” Darcy asks.

This is why I’ve always been drawn more to Genesis.

Darcy has a bad case of can-never-keep-her-mouth-shut-itis.

I ignore her and lead Genesis forward.

“Guess not,” Darcy mutters beneath her breath.

Genesis hasn’t said a word, and her attention sweeps our surroundings. She suddenly halts for a moment to run her hand over the pew we sat at the night of the funeral.

I’d buy that one if I could.

Maybe if I write the church a hefty check, they’ll let me have it.

There’s a price for everything.

My heart is dully thudding in my chest for a million reasons.

This is final, the last chapter of my personal life.

I’ll be stuck with Genesis forever since divorces are frowned upon in this life.