DECEPTION : (A student/teacher romance)

I never envisaged being walked down the aisle by my future husband, but that’s what I’m doing.

The little white chapel is quaint, yet full of life. As soon as we stepped inside, I felt at peace. With a sea of red roses lining the aisle, we walk down to get to the altar.

An officiant stands at the center podium and greets Rocco with a handshake, then Rocco claps the back of a tall man with broad shoulders who has dark eyes trained on me. The intensity of his stare has me swallowing.

“This is Silas, my right-hand man.”

I’m not sure what that means, but Rocco must deem him important to have him here, so I hold out my hand to greet him. “Nice to meet you, Silas.”

He takes my hand and pulls it toward his mouth. “The pleasure is all mi—”

Rocco snatches my hand away and pushes him, forcing him to stumble back. “Get your fucking hands off her.”

Silas steps back with his hands held up. “Chill, Roc.”

The nickname he gives him sends a rush of warmth through me, knowing Matty greets him the same way. Something Rocco has clearly bestowed on him too.

“Shall we start?” The officiant breaks the tension.

“Yes!” Celia smiles widely, and I can’t help but mirror it. Her enthusiasm is infectious.

“Did you have to fucking bring her too? You know she doesn’t leave me alone, right?” Silas whispers into Rocco’s ear.

“I know.” He smirks back.

“Bastard.”

“We are gathered here today …”