Page 89 of Prince of Vice

Isaac glances between Primo and me, a knowing grin spreading across his face. "I see. Well, I really do wish you both the best." He leaves us with a nod, and Primo's attention returns to me.

We walk the halls of the mansion, our fingers intertwined, when we run into Teddy looking sheepish. Primo tries to express his gratitude for the advice Teddy had given him, but Teddy attempts to brush it off.

"Really, it was nothing," he mumbles, shifting uncomfortably.

That's when I notice what Teddy is trying to hide: a girl tucked behind one of the statues. Primo seems slightly irritated by the situation, but I just laugh. With a lighthearted tug on Primo's hand, I lead him into the gardens.

The gardens come alive at night, the moon casting a silvery glow on the impeccably groomed hedges and blossoming springtime flowers. The scent of roses mixed with the crisp night air creates an intoxicating aroma.

"Here," Primo murmurs, bending down to pluck a delicate bloom from its stem. He places the flower gently in my hair, his fingers lingering for a moment as he adjusts its position. His eyes meet mine, filled with warmth and adoration, and I feel my heart swell in response.

"Thank you," I whisper, just before his lips find mine in a tender kiss beneath the moonlight. The world around us fades away, leaving only the sensation of his mouth against mine, gentle yet full of unspoken promise.

As he pulls back, I take a deep breath and share what's been on my mind. "I'm not giving up my law career, Primo."

He smiles softly, understanding in his eyes. "I would never ask you to."

"Instead of private practice, I've decided to work for the public defender's office." My voice is firm, resolute. "I know people are being taken advantage of by prosecutors like Greg, and I can't just stand by and watch that happen to them."

"Isabella," Primo says, his voice filled with admiration, "I'm so proud of you. You're an incredibly smart attorney, and they'll be lucky to have you. And I am so lucky to have you."

His words send a shiver down my spine, a mix of anticipation and exhilaration coursing through me. As we continue our stroll through the garden, hand in hand, I imagine the life we're going to build together – one where we support each other, challenge each other, and grow together.

"Primo," I say, my voice barely more than a whisper, "I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."

"Neither can I, bella," he replies, his grip on my hand tightening ever so slightly. "And I will spend every day proving just how much you mean to me."

The End.

Epilogue

Isabella

It's Primo and my wedding day, and I can barely contain my excitement. We talked about having just a small ceremony of family and friends, but he really wouldn't hear of it. He told me that he wanted as big of a ceremony as possible because he wanted the entire world to know that I now officially belong to him. I couldn't say no to him; I never really can.

I didn't have to do any planning for it. Primo did everything from start to finish, leaving me only in charge of picking out my dress and making sure he didn't get to see it before the wedding day. Primo, being Italian, was very much into traditions and extremely superstitious. He gave me an unlimited budget to pick out my dress, and even though I wanted to be careful with his money (especially because we've really had to earn our own these days), I ended up getting something definitely on the pricier side.

As I stand in front of the mirror, taking in the sight of myself in the most exquisite wedding gown I've ever laid eyes on, I feel like a queen. The gown is a vision of delicate lace and silk, hugging my curves just right, with a subtly seductive plunging neckline. The long sleeves are adorned with intricate embroidery, trailing down to the tips of my fingers. The train cascades behind me, a waterfall of fabric shimmering with every movement.

My hair is styled into an elegant chignon, adorned with tiny pearls that catch the light beautifully. My makeup is flawless: subtle smoky eyes, rosy cheeks, and soft pink lips. I feel both powerful and incredibly vulnerable at the same time.

"Damn, sis," Eve, also my maid of honor, says as she beams with pride. "You look amazing! Who knew you'd clean up so well? I'm sad I didn't find my own hot mobster before the family went legit – I'm tired of working."

I roll my eyes playfully. "Hey, you never know. You might still find the right criminal to turn you into a trophy wife."

"One can dream!" Eve exclaims with a laugh, and we share a knowing smile.

We join Tammy, my other bridesmaid, in the foyer as we wait for the music to start playing. The anticipation is almost overwhelming, but I'm so ready to begin this new chapter of my life with Primo.

The music swells as I stand at the entrance to the grand church, my heart pounding in my chest. Eve gives my veil one more graceful flourish before winking at me and stepping down the aisle ahead of me. The warmth of her love and support fills me up.

Taking a deep breath, I begin my slow walk down the aisle, each step measured and deliberate. I've seen so many brides cry on their wedding day, but not a single tear escapes me today – only pure happiness radiates from within. My gaze sweeps over the crowd, finding the happy, familiar faces of our loved ones. I spot Lucas, Primo's son, smiling proudly among them. I was so proud of him, but he worked up the courage to call his son and they’ve been reconnecting ever since.

It's been three months since Primo started working with Giovanni, and everything feels safer, more secure – the family is finally moving in the right direction.

As I reach the altar, my heart leaps into my throat at the sight of Primo. He stands tall and regal, his jaw set and eyes fierce with determination. His dark hair is neatly styled, and the sharp lines of his tailored suit accentuate his strong physique. His gaze locks onto mine, and in that moment, I feel an all-consuming love that sets my soul alight.

"Welcome, family and friends," the officiant begins, his voice resonant and warm. "Today, we gather to celebrate the union of Isabella and Primo."

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