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I stepped out of the room. The ceremony would take over two hours. Followed by the reception.

Then everyone else fucked off.

All the Crows will relocate to the ballroom and the rituals started.

I’d never liked the idea of being locked in a house after the wedding. Now. I was grateful.

She couldn’t be a ghost when we were locked in the same building together for five days.

Finally, I would take her home. And I’d spend the rest of my life earning her forgiveness.

As expected, the overly large gothic church was decorated following traditions.

The lighting, the large displays of red and black roses. Every small detail was dictated according to the Crow's Oath.

From where I stood, it was just a sea of people.

Hundreds of people in the first section of seating. Every living Crow in attendance.

My stomach twisted again. Had she got the rest of the crest finished?

I glared at the tattoo artists, who were both waiting out of view of the guests. The bitch hadn’t returned one of my calls. I’d even gone to her parlor multiple times, only to find it always closed.

The music changed, and so did my attention.

Turning to look as she walked down the aisle. Which was too fucking long.

Madeline was breathtakingly beautiful.

Each step she took closer to me; I found it easier to breathe again.

She actually came.

Though it was painfully obvious Marco hadn’t attended.

Now to get all these fucking traditions done. The tattoos, the vows, reception and finally the rituals.

Even though she hadn’t looked at me, it was the happiest I had been in months.

Every dish placed in front of my wife left the table untouched. Every item on the menu was her favorite. I’d made sure of it. Perhaps it was nerves.

The idea of what followed later made her nervous months ago.

I watched my wife from across the room.

All Crow weddings had one rule that every guest was to follow. And I was sure everyone from her side was determined to break it.

I left my drink at the bar and walked towards them.

A man I sure as fuck didn’t know stepped closer to her, his hand hovering.

At this point, I would have to follow her around all night reminding them, no one is to touch my bride.

He leaned in, ready to hug her.

“Madeline.”

Her eyes widened, but she didn’t look at me. Swiping his hand away, before stepping back.