Page 328 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 1

Alex’s heart broke at the sadness and fear in his beloved’s eyes. He’d never loved someone like he loved this girl in front of him. How it could be so strong after knowing each other for such a small amount of time, he didn’t fully understand, but it didn’t matter. Maybe it was because her father had tied their hearts together, but he didn’t care. He loved her, wanted her to be his wife, and nothing would ever change that.

His father had confirmed his suspicions about Anna’s pregnancy. Mutti had come to him that morning with her concerns. Vati had urged him not to mention it to Anna yet. She likely had no idea and the knowledge would upset her. He also needed time to sort out his own feelings about it, and it would be better if he were settled with the idea before he broached the subject with Anna. She would need his confidence about it.

He cupped her cheek. “Anna, whatever gave you the idea that I didn’t want to marry you? Nothing has changed that. Nothing will ever change that. I love you and want you to be my wife.” He smiled gently. “I just wanted to make sure you were feeling better.”

She nodded. “I feel better now. I guess maybe it’s just nerves.”

“I’m sure that has something to do with it.” He stood and held out his hand. “Come. Let’s go get married.”

In less than half an hour, Anna found herself gazing into her newly wedded husband’s eyes. They were married! He tenderly gazed at her before capturing her lips with his own, his love wrapping around her like a warm, silken blanket.

Soeren spoke in German, and Alex nodded in response. They stood together, facing Alex’s family, while Soeren spoke again, and everyone burst into applause.

Curious, Anna whispered to Alex, “What did he say?”

“He introduced us as the new Duke and Duchess of Hessen,” Alex said.

Anna’s eyes widened and her heart leaped at his words. “Duchess?”

Alex’s smile widened. “Ja, Schatzi. You’re a Duchess now. Here, they should call you Herzogin.”

Anna stared at him, her mind racing as she tried to wrap her head around having a title, when suddenly they were engulfed by Alex’s family. Warm hugs, kisses, and congratulations came from everyone. Gretchen’s remarks were a bit stiff.

As they walked outside, Anna overheard Wilhelm speak softly to Alex.

Alex nodded and hugged his mother. “We have some rings to find and then we’ll be home later.”

After more hugs and congratulations, Alex and Anna climbed into the SUV with Wilhelm, while the rest of the family made their way to the family limo. Sebastian and Seth rode in the SUV to accompany them to the Manor.

Chapter 151

Tony drove through the busy city streets until they were on the northern outskirts of Frankfurt. He pulled onto a narrow, paved road that took them deeper into the forest.

Anna’s purse vibrated and she pulled out her phone. She gasped at the picture on the screen. “Devin’s calling me!” She lifted her hand to answer the call. Devin would punish her if she didn’t.

Alex yanked the phone out of her hand. “Nein, Anna,” he said sharply. “You cannot answer his call right now.”

Tears came to her eyes. “But he’ll punish me if I don’t answer.”

“I am your Master too, and your husband. My authority over you outweighs Devin’s.” His voice was clipped and stern.

Anna flinched and pressed herself into the seat. She swallowed and turned to look out the window, not wanting Alex to see the tears in her eyes. Would he change now that they were married? Would he become mean and cruel, like Devin and Jack had after her birthday?

Alex sighed. “I’m sorry I snapped.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and kissed her temple. “I shouldn’t have done that.”

“You don’t need to apologize,” she said softly, her voice cracking. “I’m sorry I tried to argue.”

“He’s probably tracking your phone and got suspicious. You can’t speak to him until after we finish at the Schloss. Then our marriage bond will be set and his control over you will be lessened.” He pulled her back against him. “I want you to be safe. You’re still vulnerable until the Elders confirm our marriage.” He kissed her head. “I’m sorry I hurt you, Schatzi.”

Anna tried to relax and tell herself she was just being overly emotional. Alex wasn’t anything like Devin. Alex was warm and loving, from the inside. It wasn’t a façade like Devin wore.

He stroked her hand and kissed her head. “I love you, Anna.”

She knew he loved her. With all of his heart. And he would protect her with everything he had. She looked up at him, the pain in her heart easing. “I love you too, Alex.”

An enormous three-story building appeared in a clearing of the woods, half-timbered in the German style, with peaked tile roofs like Alex’s home. A wide stone staircase led up to the arched entryway. Tony pulled around the circular driveway and parked, ducking down to look out the windshield for a long moment before nodding. Seth and Sebastian crawled out of the back seat and looked around, then motioned for Alex and Anna to follow.

Anna’s phone rang again in Alex’s hand as they were walking toward the stairs. He frowned at the screen. “Why does he keep calling?”

---