Page 37 of Madam Alana

“Oomph!” I tipped my head back and laughed as he crossed thethreshold with me in his arms.

“I know it’s an American tradition, but I’ve always wantedto do it one day with my own wife.” He beamed, his entire expression so happythe energy around him made even the air feel lighter, helping to lift myspirits. I chuckled as he put me down.

Feeling a bit giddy, I pushed up onto my toes and kissedhim. It was our first kiss in the place where we’d build our lives. He cuppedthe back of my head and groaned as he flicked his tongue against the seam of mylips, requesting entry. I gave in to him immediately, sighing into his mouth,pressing our bodies together until there was no Alana and Christophe, it wasjust us merged, sharing an important moment in time together.

Eventually the kiss waned, and he backed away a few inches,his eyes taking in my entire face. “I’ll never forget the way you look now.”

“And how do I look?” I gently asked.

“Happy.”

I smiled and hugged him, pressing my cheek to his chest andlistening to his heart beat melodically. It was nice and steady, just like theman it belonged to.

We held one another for a minute or two, soaking in thepower of such an enormous change in both of our lives. He hadn’t intended tobring home a wife when he left for the States on holiday. And I surely hadn’texpected to be this excited to share my life with someone who was a stranger aweek ago. But now, it just felt right.

Eventually Christophe took my hand and gave me a tour ofsome of the bottom level. The first space was a combined formal living anddining room. Both had an old-fashioned design to them that spoke to the historyof the home.

“How long have you lived here?” I asked.

“Most of my life. I was raised in this house. My parentsleft it to me when they passed. Some things I’ve not changed, such as theserooms. Honestly, I always hoped I’d marry a beautiful young woman who could addher touch to our home.”

I pressed my lips together and looked down and away, feelinga bit shy.

He tapped my chin with a finger. “No hiding,cheri. This is your home now. Together we willmake it ours.”

I shook my head.

“What?”

“Nothing,” I murmured.

“Tell me,” heencouraged. “Thereshould be no secrets between us. No marriage can be successful if communicationis lacking.Non?”

I licked my lips and nodded. “No, you’re probably right. Ijust… You keep saying things that make me think you want forever with me, notjust a few years.”

“I do want forever with you. What would give you theimpression otherwise?” He frowned, his blissful expression dropping to one ofconcern.

“I…I… But the contract is for five years.”

He smiled. “Ah, I see. You are hung up on the details.” Hewaved a hand. “I married the woman I’m going to love forever. I wouldn’t havedone it otherwise.”

“Love… How can you say that? We’ve known oneanother a week.”

He shrugged. “My parents knew each other a single day beforethey agreed to marry. Just like us.” He grinned wide. “Well, not exactly likeus.” His tone became playful.

I opened my mouth and then closed it. “Christo…the term isfor five years,” I reminded him.

“Oui. I was there when I signed.”

“So that would mean in five years we will probably get divorcedand move on with our lives.” I said it and then immediately regretted it. Myheart sank and sweat broke out against my hairline and underarms. Instantly, Ifelt grotesque and uncertain. The mere thought of ending things with Christopheput a sour taste in my mouth.

He once again lifted my chin until I waslookinghim straight in the eyes.

“Alana, I will show you love and devotioneachand everyday. I will support the things that bring you joy. I will makelove to your body and be gentle with your soul. I will doallofthis knowing that I never want to be without you. And if you stillwant to leave me in five years, that is to be your decision. I will respect itregardlessif it shatters my heart into a million pieces.You are free in this life with me. I will never hold you back from pursuing allthat you wish. I only hope that in time, you will fall as deeply in love withme as I have already with you.”

I couldn’t help my response.

I jumped him.

---