Chapter 98

• "Dearly beloved...." The priest began. "We are all gathered here today, to witness the joining in holy matrimony of Manuel Russo and Bianca Bianchi. If there is anyone who thinks this union shouldn't work, he or she should speak now, or forever remain silent." I guess this was the part were I'd really put a bullet through Anthonio's head. I waited patiently for anyone to speak up, but no one did. I thought as much. "Let us proceed then." The priest muttered. He called out the vows and asked us to repeat after him, which we did. All the while, tiny strands of tears fell from Bianca's eyes. I felt embarrassed because even though the rest of the congregation couldn't see it, Alexander, Laura, and even the priest could. The priest probably decided to act blind to it. Atleast, her tears did not affect the tone of her voice while she repeated her vows to me. Soon, we got to the 'kiss' part and it suddenly felt awkward kissing the same lady who was pregnant for me. Why did I fear she would push me away in the presence of everyone?
• "You may kiss the bride." The priest repeated to my hearing, making most of the congregation laugh. I stepped closer to Bianca with my heart beating really fast. Taking off her veil, I cupped her face and leaned down for a kiss. It was supposed to have been very fleeting, but I found myself doing more than 'fleeting'. I wouldn't deny the fact that ever since I found out Bianca was expecting my child, and brought her to my home, I had really tried so much to keep my hands off her. Most especially in the nights when she held my body against hers as she cuddled into me.
• After some seconds of massaging her lips with mine, I pulled away, that familiar desire coursing through my veins. But I couldn't let anyone notice that the thoughts in my head were so impure. So I tried my best to appear calm and unnerved as the congregation cheered on. Bianca on the other hand, looked to be neutral to the kiss we just shared, so I wasn't particularly encouraged.