Page 73 of The Off-limits Grump Next Door
“Nah, we’re saving that for the gender reveal later.” She glanced around at the estate and swallowed. “You didn’t tell me you were marrying a prince,” she whispered.
I giggled, grabbing her bag. “Wait until I show you the garden. You’ll think we stepped into a fairy tale.”
Tom’s kids, Emily and Jack, scrambled out of the car, their eyes wide with awe.
“Wow, Aunt Kendra! This is a castle!” Jack exclaimed, his voice filled with wonder.
I chuckled. “It’s just a big house, sweetie.”
Emily’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “It’s a castle, Auntie! Do you have horses and dragons and knights with swords?”
Antonio appeared beside me, grinning. “No dragons, but we do have horses. Want to see them?”
Emily squealed, tugging on Antonio’s hand. “Yes! Yes!”
As we headed toward the house, Vivian emerged, her smile bright and welcoming.
“Welcome, Tom! Lucinda! We’re so thrilled you’re here!” she said warmly.
Antonio’s father, George, extended his hand to Tom. “Good to see you again, Tom. And congratulations on the new addition.”
Damon sauntered over, flashing his charming smile. “Hi, I’m Damon.”
The air was electric with joy, and I felt so grateful to be surrounded by the people I loved.
As the day unfolded, our families blended seamlessly. Laughter and conversations filled the air as everyone bonded over shared stories and memories.
Later at dinner, Antonio took my hand, his eyes never leaving mine. “I love you,” he whispered.
“I love you too,” I replied, my heart full.
The room buzzed with energy, everyone’s excitement growing as the wedding day inched closer. In just four days, I would be Antonio’s wife.
That night, as we strolled through the gardens hand in hand, Antonio wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close.
“I promise to never let you go again,” he murmured into my ear.
I smiled, feeling safe in his embrace. “I’ll hold you to that.”
Our lips met in a soft, tender kiss, the stars twinkling above us like a blessing.
“You’re a dream come true, Antonio,” I whispered.
He raised his brows and grinned. “Not many people get to marry their college crush, do they?”
We laughed together, fingers entwined, hearts brimming with joy. We were home—together—and nothing would ever tear us apart again.
***
Antonio
I stood at the altar, my heart racing with anticipation. The cathedral was packed, a sea of familiar and unfamiliar faces filling the space. My father beamed with pride, his eyes alight with happiness, while Vivian radiated excitement, her smile lighting up the entire room.
It still felt like a dream—too good to be true. Just a year ago, I had barked at Kendra to move her things from the stairway. It felt like yesterday.
The priest signaled that it was time to begin. Jake, my best man, was practically vibrating with excitement. He had won the bet about Kendra and me, and I was glad he had.
Tina stood by Kendra’s side as her maid of honor. She and Jake had finally hit it off, and I couldn’t be happier for them. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I hoped they’d find the same joy Kendra and I shared.
