Page 2 of Something Old

Nope.

Not for me.

The groomsmen push through the doors of the hotel, out onto the streets. They are chatting and happy for Frankie. I’m happy for him too. He’s a good guy and my cousin deserves a good guy.

I follow them into the church where the guests are getting agitated with the wait.

Frankie walks up the aisle with his groomsmen in tow. He speaks loudly when he greets everyone. “Hi, hello, it shouldn’t be long now.” He laughs.

But when he gets to the podium, standing - ready and waiting - he looks a little pale in the cheeks.

“What’s wrong?” I lean forward and ask him.

“What if she changes her mind? What if I say something wrong or mess up my vows? What if something goes wrong—” he is shifting from foot to foot.

I grab his shoulder in a firm grip. “That girl loves you, man. Even if you messed up every word of your vows, she would marry you. Enjoy this moment.”

He nods, the smile returning to this face, despite his nerves. “You’re right. Thanks.”

The church organ plays, and every single person turns towards the doors to watch Isabelle walking into the church.

I admit, she looks amazing. And even though this really isn’t my scene at all, a fond, warm smile steals its way onto my face.

The ceremony is in full swing, and I feel like I’ve been standing for hours. I’m bored as fuck.

The bridesmaids are all lined up on the opposite side of the podium, and one of them, in particular, keeps staring at me.

Leora Alesso.

The daughter of Marco Alesso, a rival to my father and my family. Which makes Leora a rival by default. But Isabelle and Leora went to college together and because we all live in the same city, we inevitably end up hanging out in the same social circles.

She keeps watching me, a mischievous smirk on her face.

I make a point of not returning the stare.

She is trouble.

Daddy’s little princess who gets whatever she wants whenever she wants it. A brat. Spoilt and entitled. Besides, despite being stunning, I wouldn’t touch her - her father is so strict about her dating life. I reckon he’d kill any man who made a move.

It doesn’t stop her from throwing herself at men. She loves the attention.

The priest is droning on and on about love and commitment. Fuck. Will this nightmare ever end? I need a drink and some food.

Staring over Leora’s head and trying to ignore the wink she throws me, I breathe a sigh of relief when the priest saysI now pronounce you husband and wife.Finally.

The bride and groom walk out hand in hand, and each bridesmaid and groomsman partners together and follows behind them.

Of course - I fucking get stuck with Leora.

She slips her arm through mine as we walk. “Hi Masaccio. You look really sexy.” She grins up at me with those caramel eyes. Bright and full of suggestion. Her lips are painted a soft fudge color, perfectly outlined. Dark lashes frame her gaze.

For a moment, I can’t look away.

“Leora.” I clear my throat, turning my head forward again.

I could tell her she looks incredible. She does. That dark olive-green dress compliments her eyes and hugs her body in the most perfect way.

But if I say that, it will only encourage her flirtatious behavior. I’ll enjoy the view silently, rather.

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