Page 79 of Crime Lord’s Captive

Chapter Fourteen

Manny punched his fist in the air and danced around his dining room after Gavin announced their impending nuptials. Manny kissed his son on both cheeks before he wrapped Lyla in a hug and rocked her from side to side. When he set her down, he clasped her face.

“Thank you,” he whispered.

The tears rose unexpectedly and spilled over. “W-Will you walk me down the aisle?”

Manny staggered back as if her words mortally wounded him. “Walk you down the aisle?”

“My dad is...” Lyla shrugged. It was no secret that her father cared little for her. “I want you to do it, if you don’t mind.”

Manny took a deep breath. “It would be my honor.”

Lyla hugged him tight. “I’m so happy.”

“This is all I wanted for both of you,” Manny said solemnly.

“I’m going to look for a dress today. Carmen’s coming with me,” Lyla said.

“When’s the wedding?” Manny asked.

“By the end of the month,” Gavin said.

Manny didn’t look surprised. He nodded and clapped his hands together. “We have much to do. Let me know if I can help. This news has made me extremely happy.”

They left shortly after hand in hand. Gavin drove with one hand on her thigh.

“I’m glad we told him in person,” she said.

“Yes,” Gavin agreed.

“And he’s going to walk me down the aisle.”

“Did you have doubts that he would?” Gavin glanced sideways at her. “You’re his daughter in every way but blood... thank God.”

“You never know. I’m just relieved that he didn’t mind.”

“I’ve never seen my dad react to anyone the way he does to you except my mother.” He stroked her thigh with his thumb. “You’re good for both of us.”

Lyla felt a pang in her chest, but said nothing. Gavin pulled up to Carmen’s mansion. She rushed out of the house, screaming and reaching for Lyla’s door handle before Gavin came to a stop. Carmen hauled Lyla out so she could see the ring.

“I’m so happy!” Carmen crowed, bouncing on her stilettos.

“I see that,” Gavin said dryly as he got out of the car.

Vinny came down the steps and gave Gavin a manly handshake and clap on the back before coming to Lyla. He wrapped her close and whispered in her ear, “He loves you, you know?”

Lyla pulled back and smiled up at him. “I know.”

Vinny nodded and kissed her before he looked at Gavin. “We’ll leave these two together, huh?”

Gavin leaned down to kiss her. She wasn’t prepared for the carnal kiss or the way his finger dug into her hips. When he pulled away, she searched his eyes.

“You okay?” she asked.

“Get whatever dress you want. Money’s no object.”

“I hear ya!” Carmen chirped.

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