Page 60 of Reckless Games

“What?” Her eyes widened in shock.

“You thought I wasn't serious back there? It’s not like you haven’t already said yes to being my wife. So I’m not taking any more chances.”

“I think you were being impulsive. Plus...” she hesitated.

“Plus, given what you know, you probably think that I believe you said yes to get your hands on the last diamond,” I finished for her. She nodded, not meeting my eyes. I sat down in front of her, tilting her chin up before locking eyes with her, trying to see into her very soul. “Did you?” The wheels in her head turned.

“No.”

“Then did you really want to be my wife back then?”

“Yes.” My lips curled up on one end, and I cupped her cheeks before pressing a kiss to her forehead and then her lips.

“Then your wish is my command.” She didn’t need to know that it was the first thing on my to-do list. And I needed to get it done a.s.a.p. “Now get ready. The makeup artists are here.” She smiled before hurrying to take a shower.

***

The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow over the villa. As I adjusted my tie in front of the mirror, I could see the reflection of a man who had been through hell andback. Months of anguish and relentless searching had led to this moment, and nothing would ruin it. Not now.

As I approached the courtyard, I spotted Declan, Leonardo, and Emir huddled together near the edge of the gathering. They were dressed impeccably in their suits. I couldn't help but smile at the sight of them, knowing they had flown out at a moment's notice to be here for me. "Look who decided to join us for his own wedding," Declan usually the quietest among us, quipped with a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

I chuckled, shaking my head. "Someone had to make sure you all behaved yourselves."

Emir grinned, his eyes twinkling. “I must admit, you could've given us a bit more notice next time."

"Ah, but where's the fun in that? A wedding is always more exciting when it's a surprise," I answered.

Leonardo nodded in agreement, his tone playful. "We are only here to make sure you weren't getting into any more trouble without us around to keep an eye on you."

I rolled my eyes, feigning offense. "Me? Trouble? Never."

They exchanged knowing glances, Emir raising an eyebrow. "Right, because finding your missing fiancée and bringing down half of Europe's underworld was just a walk in the park."

Declan clapped a hand on my shoulder. "You always did have a knack for the dramatic, Lorenzo."

I shrugged, unable to suppress a grin. "What can I say? Life's too short for anything less."

“By the way,” Declan suddenly pulled out a ticket to a ballet show scheduled in two days in Spain. “I guess you dropped this earlier, Leo,” he waved the ticket in the air. Leonardo’s eyes widened before he instantly snatched it out of Declan’s grip.

Emir and I exchanged amused glances. "Since when did you get into ballet, Leo?" Emir teased, nudging him lightly.

Leonardo chuckled awkwardly. "Oh, you know, just helping out this ballet company with their ticket sales on my way to the airport. They were quite desperate with their street team."

Declan snorted. "Right, because we all know how much you love ballet." I smirked, sensing there was more to Leonardo's story than he was letting on."Sure, Leo. Just make sure you don't start giving us a performance mid-ceremony." Leonardo rolled his eyes playfully, tucking the ticket away.

"Don't worry, Lorenzo. I'll leave the dancing to the professionals tonight." The banter continued as we made our way towards the seating area. Despite the weight of recent events, their presence brought a sense of reassurance. They were not just allies; they were my brothers-in-arms who had stood by me through thick and thin.

I saw Giovanni approaching with his characteristic composed demeanor, his gaze briefly catching mine before he nodded towards the archway. "Capo, time to take your place up front. The bride is about to make her entrance."

I stood up, smoothing down my suit jacket as I exchanged a nod with Declan, Leonardo, and Emir. "Guess that's my cue."

Emir grinned mischievously. "Don't trip on the carpet, Lorenzo. Wouldn't want to steal the bride's thunder."

Leonardo chuckled. "And remember, no dramatics until after the 'I dos'."

I chuckled. "Got it. Thanks, guys." With a final nod to my friends, I followed Giovanni towards the front of the courtyard. The guests shifted in their seats, murmuring with anticipation as I took my position. This was it. The day was finally here.

Giovanni checked his watch subtly, then nodded towards the entrance. "Here she comes."

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