Page 141 of Whispers in the Dark
He bought me my mother’s favorite book so that I could read it.
I gently slide my shaking palm across the cover.
It feels like a part of her is here with me today.
Closing my eyes, I inhale, trying to steady my racing heart.
A throat clears behind me, and I open my eyes to see the guard holding the bag open for me. My brows crinkle together, my hands wrapping protectively around the book.
The man smiles. “I’ll take good care of it. I promise. Mauro will show me no mercy if it’s not in perfect condition when returned to you.”
I restrain a grin. “I believe it.” I gently place the book and card in the bag and then spin around to face forward, waiting for my cue. But just as a guard is about to open the door for me, he drops his hand and dips his chin to someone behind me.
“We were hoping we made it in time,” Vin says as he walks up beside my father, who sits in a motorized chair. My father stares at me with a handsome grin and tears in his eyes.
“You look so beautiful, sweetheart.”
My lips part as my eyes trail over the chair. “What is this?”
“Mauro knew how important it meant for you to have your father walk down the aisle with you, but he also knew that might not be possible,” Vin offers. “So, with help from Alex, who will be controlling this bad boy…” Vin taps the back of the chair. “Gregory will be beside you the whole way down.”
I roll in my bottom lip, fighting back tears. “He really thought of everything, didn’t he?”
Vin grins. “He loves you.” He squeezes my dad’s shoulder. “I should head out there and let them know you two are ready.” He takes a step toward me and leans down to kiss my cheek. “You make a beautiful bride, Alina. This is my official ‘welcome to the family.’”
I smile. “Thank you, Vin. That means a lot coming from you.”
One side of his lips lift as he bypasses me, exiting the tent.
I glance down at my dad. “I’m so glad you’re here for this part.”
“I wouldn’t miss it.” He takes my hand in both of his and pats the top of it. “Every time you read one of your books, you always have this dreamy expression on your face because you’re so happy for the two main characters. And now…” He swallows. “You have that same look on your face because now it’s your turn for your happily ever after.”
“Oh, Dad…” I wipe my thumb under my eyes, trying hard not to ruin my makeup.
“Well, what do you say? Are you ready to go get that happily ever after?”
I nod. “I’m ready.”
With a tilt of his head, my dad signals for the guard, who opens the door for us. I hold my dad’s hand as we walk side by side, andthe moment we’re in view of the crowd waiting on us, everyone rises.
My heart thunders as I take it all in.
The gathering of familiar faces.
The white and purple flowers displayed everywhere, creating a whimsical illusion.
The Eiffel Tower standing tall as the background to the ceremony.
Scarlett and Madeleine positioned on one side of the officiant, with Leo, Alex, Vin, and Eli on the other.
And then…
My breath falters as I catch Mauro’s eyes.
He’s wearing a fitted black suit that molds to his muscular body. His hair is pulled back, his beard neatly trimmed. And his eyes… His deep brown eyes glisten with unshed tears as he watches me approach, never taking his gaze off me.
Stopping before him, the officiant asks, “Who gives this woman to be married?”
