Tears glimmered in her eyes. “I’ll marry you, Roman. I’m ready to spend the rest of my life with you. I’m just realizing you’re the only person I can ever see myself loving. It’s always been you, even before the incident that left me in pieces.”

He got up and scooped her up. “I don’t mind spending the rest of my life atoning for that.

With you, Olivia, I feel like I’ve found home, a real home, and not just a place to lay my head at night because up until you, that’s all I’ve ever done. I’m done running away or waiting for you to come back. I want to run to you. I love you,“ Roman murmured.

“I love you too, Roman,” Olivia replied, her voice choked with emotion.

“And I can’t imagine loving anyone more than I love you. I don’t care where you want to settle down, because you’re my home,” Roman whispered and wrapped his arms around her. The woman who would be his bride and pressed his lips to hers.

“I almost lost you. I never want to have that feeling again.”

He kissed her. His love. His Olivia. His home.

And at that moment, Olivia felt complete.

Chapter 38

Twomonthslater,Romanstood at the altar, his heart pounding with anticipation and fidgeting. The grand church was a vision of opulence, with its towering stained-glass windows casting brilliant hues across the polished marble floors. Lavish floral arrangements adorned every pew, and their sweet fragrance permeated the air. Today could not have been more perfect in the elegant simplicity of the ceremony.

The choir sang as the soft notes of classical music filled the sacred space; Roman kept his eyes fixed on the ornate double doors at the back of the church, waiting for the bride. The congregation turned in unison, their breath held in anticipation. And then the moment arrived.

The doors swung open, and the bride-to-be stepped in; Roman’s breath caught in his throat as he beheld his bride. She glided down the aisle, head bowed. Her delicate lace gown flowed like an angel’s grace around her. The intricate patterns of the lace mirrored her beauty.

Her brown curls cascaded down her shoulders, framing her face like a halo, and her honey-brown eyes glowed. Roman’s breath hitched in his throat, and he swallowed.

Beside him, Thompson, his best man, leaned over and whispered, “Hold back those tears, Roman. We wouldn’t want your pristine suit to be ruined.” Roman couldn’t help but chuckle.

As Olivia came even closer, Roman’s heart skipped another beat. The love he felt for her swelled. She reached the altar, her eyes still locked on his, and at that moment, time seemed to stand still.

Olivia was a bundle of nerves as she stood before Roman. He was in a perfectly tailored black suit. His tattoos peeked out from beneath the fabric, and Roman’s piercing blue eyes held a depth that impossibly drew her in; she felt shy, like she was meeting him for the first time.

His strong jawline and aquiline nose added to his rugged masculinity, making him undeniably attractive.

Roman gently took Olivia’s hands in his, his touch sending a wave of warmth and reassurance through her. “You’re beautiful,” he whispered.

Olivia smiled again as she looked up at him. “You promised not to make me cry. But I can’t help it. It feels like I’m living in a dream.”

Roman’s thumb gently brushed against the back of her hand. “It’s real,” he assured her.

Avery, dressed in a vibrant hot pink gown behind Olivia, whispered, “Hey lovebirds, maybe you should get a room.” Her mischievous tone added a light-hearted touch to the moment, making Olivia chuckle.

Olivia glanced over her shoulder; her heart swelled with joy at the sight of familiar faces. Sylvia, Meredith, and Bella, her sisters and closest friends, including Jane and Linda, beamed at the bride. And there, in the front row, sat her mother in a beautiful dress, her eyes glistening with tears and pride.

The priest cleared his throat. “We’re here, surrounded by the people we love, ready to embark on this incredible journey together. Olivia West and Roman Knight…..”

The atmosphere in the church was serene as the ceremony began. The priest, solemn and composed, led the couple through their vows.

Together, Roman and Olivia exchanged vows, their words carrying the weight of a promise that would transcend time.

“Now, you may kiss the bride,” the priest said.

“Ready?” Roman asked.

“When am I not?” Olivia teased.

Roman pulled her close and devoured her, soft and hot. The church erupted in applause and cheers. Roman’s heart overflowed with happiness.

***