Chapter 17 - The Vows
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The priest began the ceremony, his voice echoing through the vaulted stone ceilings. The words were ancient, steeped in tradition and Catholic guilt, but for Dante and Nadia, they held a completely different meaning.
“Do you, Dante, take this woman...”
Dante looked directly into her eyes, ignoring the priest entirely. He wasn't making a vow to God; he was making a vow to her.
“I take you,” Dante said, his voice carrying clearly to the back of the cathedral. “To protect, to honor, and to burn the world down for, until my last breath.”
Nadia’s heart hammered against her ribs. She squeezed his hand tightly.
“And do you, Nadia, take this man...”
“I take you,” Nadia replied, her voice fierce and unshaken. “To stand beside, to lead with, and to defend against all enemies, in this life and the next.”
They exchanged the rings. Heavy, custom-forged bands of platinum and black diamonds.
“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” the priest declared nervously, sensing the violent tension coiled in the room.
Dante didn't hesitate. He pulled her flush against his chest and kissed her deeply, sealing the absolute, unbreakable bond between them.
The congregation erupted into applause, but it was a guarded, watchful sound.
As they broke the kiss and turned to face the crowd, Don Rizzo stood up from his pew. He didn't clap. He reached inside his tailored suit jacket.
May you like
Dante subtly shifted his weight, moving his body slightly in front of Nadia, his hand hovering over the concealed weapon at his waist.
The reception was about to begin.
