Page 41 of Desperate Actions

The whole place is campy as hell. The gaudy decorations, the cheesy heart-shaped arch, the off-key organ music playing softly in the background. The old man in the baby-blue tuxedo waiting behind her, looking like he’s performed thousands of ceremonies just like this.

There are other couples milling around, browsing the chapel’s offerings, flipping through books of pre-written vows like they’re picking out a dish at a diner.

But Sammy?

The second he walked in, he commanded every ounce of attention in the room.

No hesitation. No doubt.

The quiet strength rolling off him does more than set him apart—it changes the entire atmosphere.

He dismissed the limo driver and the bodyguard before we even stepped inside, but I’m not worried. Not for a second.

Because Sammy is the security.

The shield. The weapon.

And even if I wanted to fight this, to walk away, even if I wanted to question it—what’s the point?

I’m too far gone.

Utterly smitten, completely consumed, so goddamn lost in this man that I know, without a doubt, there is nothing he can’t do.

And apparently, there is nothing he wouldn’t do to claim me.

My heart pounds, my pulse hammering against my ribs as reality slams into me full force.

I am really doing this.

I am marrying Sammy Ramirez.

I take a breath and focus on what I’m doing.

The chapel is small, and I get nervous in crowds. There are forms to read and sign, and I have to hand over my ID.

I bite my lip, but decide Sammy is right.

I use the app I’m developing,ReadEase, to get me through the bulk of it. I built itto help people with different abilities,like me, to go through everyday life. Now, this might not be a normal situation, but I am glad it works.

Gulp. Holy shit, I am doing this.

I sign the license. Collect my ID and put it away.

Sammy does the same.

And then, it’s our turn.

I barely process the ceremony, barely hear the words of the officiant.

My body is vibrating, my emotions tangled in a mess of contradictions.

Emphatic joy.

Immeasurable lust.

Dire need.

I am desperate.

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