Chapter 23
Massimo
Sophia traces a finger down the side of my face, a light still in her eyes from our postcoital bliss.
Her voice is soft, like an angel giving me one chance at redeeming my filthy life.
“You will be a good husband, will make good on your promises and our families will prosper in the future. I have one additional request and then I will marry you, Massimo.”
My chest beats harder than it ever has before.
A pivotal moment, and then she will be mine for eternity.
I wonder in a passing second if this is how my father, king of all kings felt when he knew Mother was the one.
I need her to say one word, yes, and I will protect her and shield her from all the sins of the underworld.
She will be my queen to treasure while sullying her with every sin I know. “Anything, kitten.”
Her eyes shine with emotion, a tender resolve settling over her features.
“Our children will never know our real story. They will grow up knowing that their parents met, were insanely attracted to each other, in time fell in love, and would do anything for them and the life we will ultimately defend. Promise me, Massimo, and then I will say I do.”
I lean down and kiss her lips, the lips that I plan to cherish every fucking day of my life. “I promise, Sophia. Our children will never know the story of how the Cassone princess came to be the Roselli queen.”