Page 29 of Sanctuary

“Mia,” he breathed, crossing the room in two long strides. “You look... wow.”

I felt a blush creep up my cheeks. “You clean up pretty nice yourself,” I teased, taking in his crisp suit.

He chuckled, running a hand through his hair self-consciously. “Thanks. I, uh, I got you something.” He pulled a small box from his pocket and opened it to reveal a delicate gold band studded with tiny diamonds. “I know it’s not much, but I wanted you to have a wedding band. It was the closest one I could find that matched the engagement ring. Oh and these too.” He turned around and picked up a small bouquet of flowers he’d set down on an empty chair. “I didn’t know if you liked roses.”

I stared at the ring and flowers then back at Connor, speechless. This man, who barely knew me, who was risking everything to protect me, had gone out of his way to make this feel like a real wedding.

“Connor, they’re both beautiful,” I whispered, blinking back tears. “But you didn’t have to—”

“I wanted to,” he said softly, taking my hand in his as we sat down.

“What do we do now?” I inquired, glancing at the other pairs around us.

“We wait for them to announce our names.”

After what seemed like an eternity a door opened, and a woman called out. “O’Brien and Andrews?”

We stood up, our hands still clasped together. As we walked towards the open door, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement fluttering in my stomach. This was really happening.

The officiant was a kindly older woman with silver hair and warm brown eyes. She smiled as we entered her small office. “Well, don’t you two make a lovely couple. Are we ready to begin?”

Connor squeezed my hand gently. “We are.”

The ceremony itself was brief but surprisingly emotional. As we repeated the vows after the officiant, promising to love and cherish each other, I found myself getting choked up. Connor’s voice was steady, his eyes never leaving mine as he slid the ring onto my finger.

“By the power vested in me by the province of Ontario, I now pronounce you husband and wife,” the officiant declared. “You may kiss your bride.”

For a moment, we both hesitated. Then Connor cupped my face gently in his hands and leaned in. His lips were soft against mine, the kiss tender and sweet. It lasted only a few seconds, but when we pulled apart, I felt breathless.

“Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien,” the officiant beamed, handing us our marriage certificate.

As we left the office, now legally husband and wife, Connor turned to me with a mischievous grin. “So, Mrs. O’Brien, what shall we do now?”

I laughed, feeling lighter than I had in weeks. “Well, Mr. O’Brien, I believe it’s customary for newlyweds to celebrate.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Champagne and room service?”

“You read my mind.”

Back in our hotel suite, after a quick change of clothes, we toasted with flutes of bubbly champagne. The reality of what we’d just done was starting to sink in.

“I can’t believe we actually did it,” I said, sinking onto the plush sofa. “We’re married.”

Connor sat beside me, his thigh brushing against mine. “Having second thoughts already?” he teased.

I shook my head, smiling. “No, it’s just... surreal, I guess.”

He nodded, his expression growing serious. “Mia, I know this isn’t a conventional start to a marriage. But I want you to know that I meant every word of those vows.”

His sincerity made my heart ache. How could I tell him the truth now? That I was the one he needed protection from?

“Connor, I have to tell you now, what I’ve been wanting to tell you,” I began, setting down my champagne flute. “About who I really am and why those men are after me.”

He leaned forward, his eyes intent on mine. “I’m listening.”

I took a deep breath, steeling myself. This was it. The moment of truth.

“Connor, I’m not who you think I am. I’m not just a librarian running from danger. I’m...” My voice caught in my throat. How could I possibly explain this? “I’m an ass—”

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