Mafia Boss’s Arranged Bride by Bella King

Epilogue

Annika

It’s a warm day today, much nicer than the first time I stepped onto the stage to promise myself to a man. This time, the actions have meaning, and my steps to join the Ivanov family are rewarded with true happiness, something I’ve struggled to know my entire life.

Here it is, standing in front of me with a grin on his face and a little yellow flower tucked into his lapel. He looks happier than I’ve ever seen him; I feel that happiness within me as well. It’s a shared gift that the world has given us, and after the hurt and trauma we’ve both endured, I’d consider it well-deserved.

This time, my feet don’t ache from heels that are too narrow, and I can take deep, gratifying breaths in without a corset to restrict my lungs. The air smells like Nikolai’s cologne, the flower on his lapel, and wood from the polished stage in the venue. I take another deep breath right before the kiss.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

I lean forward, and Nikolai’s lips fall down on mine with both gentleness and a feverish urgency. I sink into his mouth, tasting the promise of a better tomorrow together. I almost forget where I am, only coming back to reality when he pulls away, leaving my stomach stirring with excitement and need for more of him.

I’ll get it in the bridal suite. I was promised that, and Nikolai always holds firm to his words. He’s reliable, noble, and knows how to get my legs behind my ears faster than I can get naked.

Until then, I appear calm and collected for our audience, turning sharply on my heels after the kiss and beaming at the small crowd as they applaud. For the first time, I’m the star of the show, and this is my choice, not a business contract. I feel incredible.

Nikolai’s warm hand finds mine, and we walk off the stage together, taking the first steps as a married couple into our new life.

It’s perfect, and I’m sure that we’ll live…

Happily ever after.

The End.