Page 82 of Cat and Mouse

We lock eyes, and I see a reassuring warmth in his gaze that eases the nervous flutter in my stomach. I reach him, and he extends his hand, a gesture that's both familiar and comforting.

"Ready for this?" he whispers, his voice a low murmur that only I can hear.

I nod, a small smile playing on my lips. "More than ready."

As we face the small-town Catholic priest, I can't help but marvel at the contrast between Leo's strong belief in the church and his actions as the biggest serial killer New York has ever seen.

The priest, a kindly figure with a white collar peeking out from his traditional robes, smiles at us. "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today..."

Leonardo tightens his grip on my hand, a silent reassurance that we're in this together, beliefs aside.

The ceremony unfolds in the embrace of nature, the priest's words blending with the rustling leaves and the distant song of a bird. Vows are exchanged, promising a future entwined with shared dreams and challenges.

"Do you, Alex, take Mia to be your lawfully wedded wife?" the priest intones.

"I do," Leo replies, his voice steady and full of conviction.

As the priest pronounces us husband and wife, the guests erupt into joyous applause.

Leo pulls me into a gentle embrace, sealing our union with a tender kiss. "I love you, mia cara," he whispers against my ear.

"I love you too," I reply, feeling the joy of those words, the promise of a lifetime.

***

The soft melody wraps around us, and I feel Leo's strong arms holding me close. The little community we've formed celebrates our union, and as we dance, I can't help but smile. The papers say we're Mr. and Mrs. Marcia, but Leo insisted on a wedding.

His playful flirting makes my heart race, and I get lost in the dance, in his eyes.

"Your hair looks stunning," he whispers, planting a gentle kiss on my cheek. I blush, not used to this life, but with Leo, everything feels weightless, happy, and free. As we sway to the music, he suggests we leave, and I eagerly agree.

We share a sweet kiss, and soon, we're on our way to the mansion surrounded by endless vineyards, a world Leo bought for us.

The night air is warm as we arrive, and Leo sweeps me off my feet, carrying me over the threshold.

"My wife, my Elizabeth," he declares, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

I playfully slap his chest, "I'm Mia now."

He chuckles. "You were always mine."

Soft light spills from elegant chandeliers, casting a warm glow over the room saturated with the fragrance of fresh flowers. Leo guides me to a space adorned with floor-to-ceiling windowsfrom which we have a panoramic view of sprawling vineyards—a sight that steals my breath.

"I hope you're happy here," Leo says, his gaze filled with a sincerity that tugs at my heart.

"Here in Sicily, or here with you?" I tease, allowing a playful smile to grace my lips.

He turns me to face him, his hands tracing gentle patterns up and down my back. He's focused on the zipper of my dress, and each of his deliberate motions sends shivers over my skin.

"With me," he affirms, a smile playing on his lips.

And in this luxurious haven, surrounded by his love, I'm more than content.

"You are my home," I declare, lifting onto my toes to place a tender kiss on his jaw.

"Perfect. Now, can we get this dress off of you? Because I've only thought of getting you out of it ever since I saw you walk down the aisle," he admits, his desire evident in his dark eyes.

I smile at his honesty as he skillfully removes my dress. In this intimate moment, right here with him, I realize that this is exactly where I'm meant to be.

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