Page 12 of Clash Of Worlds

I turned my attention back to her dad, sizing him up like he was sizing me. Our interactions have always been brief, not wanting to step on toes or have issues when there didn’t need to be none. But this was new territory we were getting ready to embark on.

“She’s a rare jewel, Russo. I’m honored you think so highly of me to offer her hand.” I looked over at Lucia and stuck my hand out, smiling a little more as her fingers entangled with mine. “She will be loved, and well cared for, you have my word.”

“Probably about the only man I trust her heart to, so don’t take it lightly. I also think we need to make this a fast wedding, so that we can make the statement to whoever this is that we mean business and will not be shut down.”

“I agree there. Lucia?”

“I think it’s a great idea. I thank you for asking for my input, Trevor.”

“Word of advice, Trevor,” I looked at the older man, my brow raised. “Lucia is a handful, don’t let her control too much on you.”

“Really, Dad?”

I laughed along with him, casting a wink her way. I still had my apprehension in dealing with this man, and I have no doubt that the lines in the city would remain fully drawn. Just because there was a union between us, didn’t mean our men needed to invade sides. This was nothing more than showing a strong hand to an unknown enemy.

“How fast can you get this arranged, Trevor?”

“I’m going to leave that up to my soon to be wife. Lucia?”

We both turned to look at her. I couldn’t fight the grin as I saw the calculating look in the depths of her eyes.

“It’s just about two weeks till Valentines’ Day, and I do believe it would be the perfect time for my wedding. Between my family, and Trevor’s, I’m sure we can make something grand and beautiful.”

Lucia

“You don’t have to go through with this.”

I smoothed the white dress down over my hips as I looked at myself in the mirror before glancing at my mom.

“I do. But not for the reasons you think,Mama. I have never felt anything, even remotely close to what I feel for Trevor, and what I felt on the first night I met him. And since then, he’s been a good man. Sure, he’s Irish, has a hell of temper, and that doesn’t always bode well with my own.

“But he’s also kind, smart, very funny, and very loving. Some traits one wouldn’t see in a leader. He’s firm when he has to be, strong when the actions require it, and yet, when the bedroom closes and it’s just us, he leans on me like one wouldn’t understand.

“I might be a fool to lots of others, but the moment I heard about the bombing weeks ago, I already knew what the best answer would be for the solution, and you know what? I didn’t mind. I will also be an honest woman, and I say I don’t want another woman kissing my man’s lips.”

That had her giggling as she fixed my veil.

“I didn’t know things had developed so well for you two.”

“They have,Mama. And to anyone else, I’m sure it seems like it’s a loveless deal, one of duty. It’s not ideal, I would love more time before saying I do. But honestly, there isn’t one part of this I regret.”

“I guess I can be happy with that. You do at least like him enough.” I joined her in her giggles and took my bouquet as shehanded me the pretty red and white flowers. “You do make a stunning Valentine Day bride, Lucia. And I’m so proud of you.” I wiped my tears as she kissed my cheek, turning as the door opened.

“Let’s make this official,Principessa.”

“Gracie, Papa.”

I took his arm, swallowing hard as he led me out of the back room of the small church. The ceremony was small and simple, having only those of importance from both our families there. And for most, they might not like that, but I loved it. I knew that even if I had the time to plan, the wedding would still be like this.

For me, and I want to believe for my husband, this was far more intimate, far more personal, and that was just one more thing we had in common. The world could see us as they saw fit, could judge us on being harsh or cold, maybe brutal, or over the top, but behind closed doors, when it was just him and I, we were fine with simple details.

I turned to my dad as he kissed my cheek, whispering how proud he was and just how beautiful I looked, before he squeezed my hand and placed it in the awaiting hand of my soon to be husband.

I smiled as I finally took him in, my breath catching at how devastatingly sexy and handsome he looked.

And for as long as we both lived, he would be mine.

“Mrs. Almost Doyle.”

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