SIXTY-EIGHT.

After Riccardo went around the block for the third time, he brought the vehicle to a standstill for the second time tonight.

And like the first time, Alessandro waits for me outside the vehicle with his hand extended.

Clenching my jaw, I place my hand in his with no hesitation, no deep breaths and no second-guessing.

He assists me in exiting the vehicle, and the entire time, all I can think about is avoiding tripping over my gown and collapsing.

When both of my feet safely land on the red carpet, I privately sigh with relief while externally flashing the brightest, toothiest smile I can muster despite the dazzling lights blinding me.

As Alessandro wraps his hand around my waist, he draws me closer to him and kisses the top of my head.

“You are bellissimo inside and out, amore mio. And now the world is going to know that you are mine.” He mutters as his lips linger over my pebbling flesh.

I blush, blinking back tears, and try not to scoff at his description of me being beauti