Page 200 of Bride By Initiation

He grabs my right hand and slides it over my middle finger. "What do you say, my pulse? Will you marry me once more?"

"Yes! Of course I will!" I reply.

He rises, tugging me into him and kissing me.

Our parents cheer.

He retreats. Mischief brightens his greens, and he teases, "I didn't get you another diamond since I knocked it out of the park the first time."

I laugh. "You sure did! And this is equally as beautiful! Thank you!" I kiss him again.

"Let's plan a wedding!" Mom sings.

"Don't forget your other news!" Dad exclaims.

I freeze and look at Sean.

He groans. "Luca!"

I point at him. "You told him, didn't you?"

Sean shrugs. "Had to give him something so he would give me his blessing."

"What are we missing?" Bridget asks.

Sean slides his arm around my waist, grinning. He looks at me. "Do you want to tell them?"

"Tell us what?" Mom questions.

"We're having a baby," Sean and I proclaim at the same time.

"A baby!" Mom and Bridget both squeal.

Dante pulls out the scotch. "This calls for something a bit stronger than wine, don't you think, Luca?"

"Agreed." Dad tugs me into him. "My beautifulfiglia. I'm so happy for you."

"Thanks. You're not mad anymore?" I ask.

He takes a deep breath. "It's time to move forward. We have a baby to spoil!"

I laugh, feeling more love and joy than I ever thought possible. I glance at my husband, remembering the night he told me to choose him.

Without a doubt, it's the best decision I've ever made.

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EPILOGUE

Sean

Three Months Later

Mom's eyes glisten. She straightens out my bow tie, steps back, and smiles. "There. Perfect now."

"Thanks, Mom."

She beams brighter, declaring, "I always thought you and Zara had something special."

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