Page 35 of Papers Don't Lie

“For what?”

“For not being there for you, but let’s just hope I’ll be in a better state on your wedding day.”

I open my mouth to say something, but someone knocks on the door, and we both turn toward it. Kendrick steps in, saluting both my father and me.

“Mr. Graves, the plane and Ms. Esmeray are waiting for you.”

“Go. I’ll wait for you two to come back," Dad tells me, and I nod, gripping his hand before standing up. When I want to let go of his palm, he stills. “I’m proud of you.”

Something scorns at my chest. “Thanks, Dad.”

Throughout the weddingofficiant’s speech, Esmeray won’t stop fidgeting in her place. She glances at me from time to time, almost as if she’s making sure I’m still here and that I didn’t run away.

While any other sane person would do just that after the impulsiveness washed away, I’m breathing easier and easier as things move further. Thanks to my mental disorder, I can’t sleep until everything is alright.

Last night was no exception. I thought I was safe from getting trapped in a nightmare since Esmeray was already safe, but that was far from the truth. I woke up covered in sweat, the tracks of a dream where Esmeray was taken away from our ceremony still fresh in my mind. She couldn’t stop screaming “it’s your fault” over and over while Carter dragged her away.

I’m hoping for a much better sleep tonight, and I hope the same for her.

“Relax.” I lean down and whisper in her ear, my breath cascading over her neck and leaving goosebumps behind. I remove myself from her proximity, noticing she’s even more tense now.

“I now declare you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride,” the wedding officiant announces.

My palm sneaks on her back which is covered by a beautiful, silky white dress that hugs her curves tightly, and her eyes snap to mine, tears glistening in them. She blinks a few times at the intimacy, taking a hesitant step forward as one of her hands lands on my chest.

“What are you doing?” Esmeray murmurs, gaze on my lips. My eyes point at the man next to us, and her cheeks flush at the realization. “Right, sorry.”

I lift my thumb and wipe the corner of her mouth as she sucks in a breath. “Can I kiss my wife?”

Her pupils dilate, almost like she’s asking me if I’m serious about this, but I don’t say anything. I just continue tracing the skin of her face with my finger, enjoying the confusion on her expression. She takes her time, her palm curling on my suit as she bites down on her lip, considering my question.

Finally, she gives me a small nod, and I don’t hesitate, leaning down and claiming her. My palm catch the back of her head, and she releases a moan that makes my dick harden the moment our tongues meet. She’s clumsy, not knowing what to do first, but not once does she try to remove herself from my touch.

Because I know we’re in front of someone who for sure has no right to hear sounds meant only for my ears, and that I won’t be able to stop myself from going further if she continues to subconsciously push herself into me like that, I end the kiss with one last touch of our lips.

We break away, both of our breathing erratic.

Her chest falls and rises with rapid breaths, her breasts gluing even more to me. “We’re married,” she says like she can’t believe it.

“We are,” I say.

Esmeray takes a step back, clearly embarrassed about the show we just put on in front of the wedding officiant, her cheeks turning crimson. She clears her throat, avoiding my gaze as she thanks the man who made our marriage real mere seconds ago.

“It’s stunning, Kai,” she whispers afterward, glancing at the diamond shining brightly on her hand. “I wish I had chosen one for you,” she murmurs while we exit the building.

We both get out at a ridiculous distance from each other on the streets of Los Angeles. I could’ve chosen any city, but this place has always felt like home to me. There’s no reason behind it, and yet, I walk on these streets like I’ve lived here my entire life.

“This place is beautiful,” Esmeray murmurs, head tilted on her back as she spins on her toes, looking in the distance.

“You think so?” I ask, following her steps. She nods. “Would you like to live here one day?”

Esmeray laughs, stopping from spinning to glance at me. “Who wouldn’t want to live in Los Angeles? Everybody loves this place.”

“True,” I agree, and we walk towards the car. “But would you?”

Esmeray squints at me, trying to read my intentions. “Are you kidding?”

I shake my head. “No, why would I? I’m serious.”

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