Page 12 of Roman Petrov

“Was starting to think you changed your mind.” I give her my best charming smile.

Her lips flatten. “I did think about it. But, then the city called to tell me that my property taxes on that place are overdue.” Her nostrils flare, but she maintains her composure. “So, let’s get this over with. Did you bring my check?” Her hand flattens as her chocolate colored eyes look up at me expectantly.

I pull my wallet out and unfold the slip. “I’d like it if you begged a little harder.”

There it is. That red blush works up her neck to accentuate her bright lips that purse as she watches me.

Fuck, I’d love to look into her eyes when I tighten my fingers around that slender neck and squeeze.

“Please?” she whispers.

I lay the payment across her palm and cover it with my own. “Good girl.” Turning away, I readjust my crotch before rapping on the window to the office as she clears her throat next to me.

A grin twitches on my lips. If the praise got to her, I wonder what would happen if I made her my good little slut.

“It’s time,” I call through the shingled window.

The door opens, and the first thing I see is sparkly skin tight white pants with golden stars.

But, then I see his hair. A giant black skunk has died upon the head of a short, fat, greasy Elvis impersonator.

“Welcome very much.” His lip snarl is on point.

Some days, I fucking hate Vegas.

“Let’s get this over with,” I growl at him.

“Wait.” Her hand touches my arm and it races fire up into my chest. “It’s my wedding, too.” She turns to the squatty man. “I would like the full show.”

Smiling, she steps away from me.

The short chaplain grins at me and follows her. “Why thank you, little lady.”

My eyes hurt from rolling them as he hip waggles, stabs his finger into the air, and gyrates awkwardly through the short ceremony.

But, the smile on her face makes it tolerable.

It makes something inside of me warm watching her give in to laughter at his antics.

She sets aside every ounce of humor when he tells her to slide the ring on my finger.

Why does this feel so…real?

Her eyes lock on to me as we repeat back the vows.

I can’t believe I just did this.

She’s mine.

Tied to me more firmly than any piece of paper.

And for some damn reason, I don’t want to let that go.

“You may now kiss your bride.” His practiced words hit me with a force I didn’t expect.

My hand wraps behind her neck, tugging her closer. Tipping her chin with my thumb, I go in with the plan of a quick peck.

But, her warm fingers trail to the base of my throat and fold into my collar. When my lips find hers, they’re soft and inviting.

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