Page 105 of Matteo

The judge who marries us is a family friend of Elizabeth’s. He’s a nice man who stays for the day.

Layla is a sweetheart the whole day, even posing for pictures with a big smile on her face. She clings to me as the day goes on, only allowing Matteo to take her a few times. So I’m shocked when Santos gets close, and she flings herself at him.

He laughs and catches her. “I swear she’s only trying to make me feel bad for not giving her any more ice cream.”

“Santos, you gave her ice cream?” Matteo is annoyed.

One shoulder goes up. “I had some, and she wanted some. It was make her cry by not giving her any or give her some. And I only gave her a few spoonfuls.”

She buries her face in his neck, and in only minutes, she’s asleep. Doris takes her from him and tucks her into the car seat.

“I’m going to take her back to Elizabeth’s now.” Doris nods at us. “We’ll see you in a week. Have fun.”

I give Layla a last kiss before Doris leaves.

“She’s going to be fine. It’s only a week.” Matteo murmurs as he holds me close.

It’s after dinner now, and I’m fighting not to yawn. Matteo’s arm is around me, and he holds me close.

“Ready to sneak out of here, Mrs. Castillo?”

“Yes, please, Mr. Castillo.”

On the plane, he pulls me into his arms. “Was the day everything you wanted?”

“Everything and more. I loved the flowers and the dress but the best part of the day was ending it as yours.”

Eyes darkening, he lowers his mouth to mine. “You’ve been mine since the first day. All today was about was making sure everyone else knew it, too.”

Three weeks later

Amy

I sigh as I look down at the test. I’m not sure if I should take it now or wait…

“Amy?” Matteo is standing in the doorway of the bathroom. His eyes widen in surprise.

Shit. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t sure if it was the right time—with Luis and everything.”

His eyes darken at the mention of his grandfather. “I think now is the perfect time to take it.”

“Okay.” I nod and read the instructions. Once I’m done, I wash my hands and go to Matteo, wrapping my arms around his middle.

“I wish you told me you were thinking you might be already.” He sighs.

“It wasn’t until the last day of our honeymoon that I began to wonder. Then we got home and…you know. I forgot all about it. Then I went to make coffee this morning, and it made me nauseous.”

His hand runs up and down my back. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound…I’m sorry.”

“Don’t say you’re sorry. Your grandfather just died. We’re all a little out of sorts.”

He pulls back. “I knew he was dying. And I didn’t say anything.”

My hand goes up to his cheek. “Oh, Matteo. I’m sorry.”

Shaking his head, “I’m the one who should be apologizing. My mom and Rafe?—”

“You didn’t have a choice. Your grandfather wouldn’t let you. You were doing what he wanted.” I assure him. “Don’t apologize for that.”

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