Page 136 of Masked Hearts

After Valerie introduces me to her father and cousin, we fall into comfortable conversation as I fill both her and Nat in on my time in South Africa. I’m quite surprised to hear just how well Val and Kaia get on, considering Kaia’s past relationship with Ambrose.

My eyes scan the backyard as I search for my sister. She seems very entertained by a girl around her age.

“Theá!Mia cara,there you are,” a woman’s voice rings from behind me and it sends a bolt of electricity down my spine.

It’s his mother.

“Gianna.” I turn around and flash her the friendliest smile I can muster.

“Oh please, relax. You look like you’re going to shit yourself.” She laughs and I even hear Val and Natalia join it along with her. “There’s nothing to be nervous about, I have four boys; you girls are the angels of my dreams.”

“Wow, Mamá. And here I thought I was your favourite?” Antonio’s deep voice comments as he comes up next to me, throwing a lazy arm over my shoulder.

“I can neither confirm nor deny that,” Gianna says, winking at Antonio. “It’s good to see you again,Mia cara. You should come by sometime with your sister and we can have a girls’ day with Val and Natalia.”

“Oh, I would love that,” I beam, and she squeezes my hand gently before leaving Antonio and me alone.

“Hi,” he breathes.

“Hi, Nino,” I say, my smile instantly taking over my face.

“Have I ever mentioned how much I love you?” he asks. He pushes my hair behind my ear as he allows those gorgeous, green eyes to pour into mine, as if they could convey every single word he’s trying to say.

“Maybe once or twice.”

“Make it thrice.” He leans in until his lips are just about grazing mine. “Theá Vitale, I love you.” And then in the most natural, most comfortable way ever, he claims me as his.

THE END

Epilogue

Four months later.

Antonio

ValerieandAmbrosehavebeen wedding planning for the last four months, and the day has finally arrived. I’m fixing Augustus’ bow tie as we wait in the front of the crowd for the girls to walk in. Adriano is just in front of Gus, directly behind Ambrose, assuming his role of best man. Honestly, it just looks like we’re standing in age order at this point.

“Stop fidgeting, so I can’t fix it,” I whisper at Gus, who just sighs before standing still.

“I’m proud of you,” he says, my eyes flashing to his at the sudden, unprompted statement.

“For what?” I finished fixing the fabric.

“A couple of years ago. The thought of Valerie ending up with anyone but you would’ve sent you spiralling; you’ve come a long way, and I’m happy you fought for something you love.”

“GrazieGus, I wouldn’t be here without you guys, so I can’t take all the credit.” He pats my shoulder and turns around, whispering something to his twin.

They’re looking less alike again. Adriano has gone back to his pink buzz cut as per request from Val, except his head is now also decorated with red hearts that have been dyed into his hair as well, while Gus has been allowing the buzz cut to grow out and is now sporting a hairstyle closer to mine.

The music starts up, and we all stand upright facing the back, ready to welcome the girls in.

Ariella enters first, alone, followed by Karyn and Kaia, who walk in together.

Kaia designed all the bridesmaid dresses, and they highlight the girls beautifully, but it isn’t until the next pair walks in that I’m rendered speechless.

Theá and Sel walk in, and I hit Augustus’ back, drawing his eyes up to them,

“Wow,” we breathe in unison.

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