Grace stretched her arms out as she entered her bedroom. "That went better than expected." She rolled her shoulders and came to a stop in front of the coffee table in her room. "What's that?" she asked, looking at the piece of paper on the table.

  Marriage certificate? Wait, it's signed? I didn't sign this.

  "What's up?" Zain loosened his tie and stood beside her.

  She picked up the certificate and held it up to him. "Is this real?"

  "It looks real..." He took it from her. "But I don't remember signing this."

  "Funny, cause neither do I, but both our signatures are there, and they look spot on."

  "Uh, maybe Boss really is pushing for a wedding to be soon." Zain set the certificate down. "Not that I mind, since I'm sure about you."

  "Thanks..." Grace sighed. "Why does it feel like I'm going to be ambushed with a big wedding?"

  "Because it's your grandpa we're talking about."

  "You know what? I don't even mind if we get married." From what I can tell, it'll work out well. "But I'd rather not make a big deal of it."

  "You'd rather have a small, intimate wedding?"

  "Yes, like literally only people who live in this house and on the estate. We have enough land that we don't even need a separate venue."

  Zain smiled at her and kissed her cheek.

  "What was that for?"

  "I wasn't sure you would be ready any time soon, but you have thought about this, haven't you?"

  "Well... yeah... I mean, my grandpa kinda had me kidnapped in order to marry me off or something, right?"

  "To the next leader and whatnot, but honestly, I don't think he'd keep to it if you didn't want to. Not anymore, anyway. He's a lot softer with you around."

  Grace smirked. "Are you the one who's having cold feet now?" She poked him in the chest, and he grabbed her hand.

  "Is your memory that short? I already told you I was sure. I'm not backing down from this. Even if you didn't want a wedding at all, and you wanted to go submit this and whatever needs to be done, I'd do it right now."

  "Good, because I want it now." The door to her room opened, and Ray walked in with a bunch of people behind him and Mary.

  "Now? As in right now? Have you gone crazy, old man— Ah!" Zain yelped as Ray grabbed his ear. "Sorry, Boss." Ray let him go, and he stepped away, holding onto his ear.

  "Yes, right now. I ordered everything a while ago, and we have the whole family here. Also, our allies – the Morettis – are here outside helping us set up as we speak."

  Grace's jaw dropped. I hope Roger isn't there... That'd be too mean. "You can't be serious. Why the rush?"

  "I figured the sooner you're married, the sooner I'll get a great grandkid." Ray smiled at her. "I know you're the type to not want one out of wedlock, and I don't know how long I have, so let's keep this relationship on the fast track, shall we?"

  He's lost it... "I thought you'd stick around for a long time."

  "Of course, but the earlier I get a great grandkid, the more time I'll have with them. Let's get them all set up." Ray swirled a finger in the air and walked out.

  Zain was dragged away, and Grace was caught up in a whirlwind of Mary and a bunch of maids she barely knew. Any time she tried to move away or say anything, Mary hushed her with one look.

  You know what? I think she should be the boss; she can already control everyone here.

  "Well, what do you think?" Mary stood Grace in front of a full-length mirror after she made the other maids leave.

  "I... I don't know. Clothing has never been my strong suit." Grace trailed her hands down the dress. It is a super smooth material. Must be expensive.

  "What's wrong? You don't look happy. Did I do something wrong with the design? Or are the measurements wrong? They look fine to me."

  "Wait, what? You made this?"

  "Yes." Mary smiled and straightened her back. "I made your mother's dress too, back in the day. She would've loved to see you." Mary wiped a tear away.

  "Thanks. But can this all be set up in such a short time? I don't really have any fancy speech to say or anything. I mean... I suck with this kind of thing."

  "As long as you say I do, then I don't think anyone cares. Besides, I'm not sure Zain wants to ramble on, either."

  "I don't know. He might do it just to embarrass me."

  Mary chuckled. "He does like to tease you, doesn't he? You're in for a lifetime of it, but I'm sure you can handle it." Mary pushed a strand of Grace's hair back.

  Music started to play outside.

  "I think that's your cue." Mary nudged her towards the door.

  "Shouldn't they have waited for me to be right there?"

  "That's Ray for you."

  Mary followed her down to the doors to the backyard.

  Grace stopped when she saw who was waiting for her. "Roger? What are you doing here?"

  He turned to her and gave her a small smile. "Other than wishing this was for us? I'm walking you down the aisle."

  "I thought... my grandpa would want to do that."

  "Apparently, he had other plans. Besides, he said I knew you better, and I've known you longer, so it's only right if I give you away." Roger's cheek twitched. He knew Ray was also trying to make sure he knew Grace wasn't his.

  "You didn't have to agree to do this."

  "I don't know if Ray would've let me say no, but if it's come to this, I'd like to have some sort of special place in the wedding, and walking you down the aisle is pretty special if you ask me."

  "How about the male form of Maid of Honour or something? You are my best friend, after all."

  "I think this works fine. Your 'Maid of Honour' is still a guy even without me around." Roger smirked.

  Grace's jaw dropped. "Pez?"

  "You know it. Now, let's go before someone has to come get us." Roger held his arm out to her.

  "Thank you, Roger, for everything." She took his arm.

  "Anything for you, Grace," he whispered and walked her through the door. "Stay calm," Roger said when she tensed up. "You've dealt with groups this big at work; you can do it now."

  Grace had seen many of the people on the left side, but only a couple on the right. They must be split up into Bertolottiss and Morettis. Vincent was in the front row, and he smiled when their eyes met.

  She finally looked at the podium they had set up, and if Roger hadn't led her along, she would've stopped. Ray was waiting there for her with Zain dressed in a tuxedo, his eyes on her.

  "Grandpa, are you allowed to do this?" Grace whispered as she stood in front of him and Zain. "Thank you, Roger."

  He nodded, kissed her on the cheek, and sat down beside Vincent in the front row. Zain took her hands and smiled at her.

  "Of course I can do this, Gracey. I'm allowed to do almost anything." Ray smiled.

  Why does it feel like even if I didn't fall for one of them or choose someone, he could've just submitted papers, and I'd be married according to the system?

  "All of us here already know how I started this all," Ray began. "I wanted my precious granddaughter to marry the next head of the Bertolottiss, both continuing my bloodline, and securing her future. I will admit I didn't know whom she'd choose, but it being Zain made me feel like a proud father. Now, I don't want to ramble, so let's get on with it. Zain, do you take Grace to be your wife, to have and to hold, with the understanding that if you break her heart, I will break you?"

  There were a couple of chuckles in the audience, but everyone there knew he was serious.

  "I do..." Zain swallowed hard. He knew Grace could handle him herself, but he also knew Ray wasn't giving him an empty threat. Ran held up a ring for Grace, and she slipped it on his finger.

  "Grace, do you take Zain to be your husband and future underboss?"

  Grace stared at Zain for a moment, feeling all the eyes on her. Knowing Roger was in the crowd made it harder to speak up. She knew how he felt, and she didn't want to make things worse.

  "It's okay..." Roger whispered, and she glanced at him. He took a deep breath and nodded.

  "Grace..." Zain's grip on her hands tightened.

  "I do." Zain put a wedding band on her finger with the ring.

  "Good, you may now kiss the bride," Ray said.

  Zain wrapped his arms around her and picked her up as he kissed her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, her hair draping down around his head as she pulled away and looked into his eyes.

  "I love you," Zain whispered.

  "I love you, too."

  Zain spun her around and the crowd cheered, congratulating them as they set off wedding poppers.

  "Time to drink!" Ray yelled, and they cheered louder.

  "Are you going to put me down yet?" Grace asked as she played with his hair.

  "I really don't want to... Too many guys with their eyes on you in this dress, wishing you were theirs."

  "You're going to have to put me down eventually, and I'm sure my grandpa wants a dance." Roger probably does, too.

  Zain pouted. "But I wanted to whisk you away."

  "Zain," Ray called out to him, and he froze.

  "I wish I didn't have to share you so much, but I don't think I can get away from it this time." Zain set her down and turned to him.

  "Congratulations, son." Ray gripped his shoulder, crushingly tight. "Why don't you have a drink and chat with some of the members you've barely talked to since Grace showed up? I'm going to dance with my granddaughter."

  "Yes, sir..."

  Ray pushed his way between them and held his arm up to Grace. He nodded his head towards the dance floor they set up nearby. "The first dance is ours."

  She wrapped her arm around his and let him lead her over.

  He patted her hand. "I know this was supposed to be your father's job, but—"

  "He hasn't been around for a long time, and neither have my other grandparents, so any thoughts of having a first dance with my father, or father-figure, was long gone. So thank you, grandpa, for being here and taking me in as a part of the family. Heck, I stopped thinking about marriage and only thought about the job for so long—"

  "We are family, Gracey." He held onto her hand and waist and started to dance. "We always have been, and I should've shown up in your life sooner. It must've been lonely to lose them all like that."

  "Same for you, right? You lost both your sons and your wife."

  "But I have all the Bertolottis family. I have support to help me through... and I got Zain out of it."

  "For my parents, I had my grandparents, and for them... I had Roger. It was still early in our friendship, but he was there for me."

  "And despite all the fighting and secrets, I think that man will always be there for you, no matter how much he wants to run away. So will Zain, though, so try not to break his heart."

  "I won't. So, when will I start to learn the ins and outs of your job? I have a lot to learn before I even think of taking over."

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  "I don't know; you seem to pick things up pretty fast. If you give me a great-grandbaby, you can take over sooner than you'd expect, and I can take care of the baby."

  "Do you have baby on the brain or what? And is that a permanent babysitter offer?"

  "Naturally." Ray smiled. "I didn't spend enough time with my kids when they were little, and I missed my chance with you. New ones would be my final chance." He sighed.

  "Laying it on a bit thick, aren't you, grandpa? You know babies are a lot of work, right?" And I'm not sure I want any; I'm not suitable for it.

  "Of course, I know that."

  "Wouldn't you prefer to relax when you retire from being the boss instead of having the stress of taking care of a baby?"

  "Not at all. I can't relax if I have nothing to do, and taking care of a baby is a full-time job. I will admit to having a lot to learn, but Mary can teach me, so please think about it."

  "I have a feeling I'll have no choice but to think about it, because you'll end up bringing it up all the time."

  "You've gotten to know me so well in such a short amount of time." He chuckled and gave her a spin. "I don't actually want to pressure you, but at the same time, I really want one."

  "Then go adopt one."

  "I'm a bit old for that now, and you know how I feel about my own blood."

  "Of course; otherwise, you wouldn't have gone through all this trouble and named Zain as your heir right away."

  Ray's eyes shook. "Do you think I'm cruel for not naming him as my heir?"

  "I guess that depends on how he feels about it. I expected him to be angry about choosing to be the boss myself, but he doesn't seem to have an issue with it. Surprisingly, it doesn't seem like anyone does, at least not openly."

  "Of course not; you're amazing, and no one wants to tick me off."

  "Ah..." I should've thought of that.

  The song finished, and another man stood beside her with his hand out as the floor flooded with other couples. "I hope I can at least have a dance." Roger gave her a wistful smile.

  Grace could see Zain drinking with some of the others, but his gaze was on her. He nodded and looked away, knowing it was her choice, and that she'd want to dance with her friend.

  Grace took Roger's hand, and he pulled her close. "Congratulations," Roger whispered. "You look gorgeous today, and every day, for that matter."

  "Thanks..."

  "Even though I wish this were our wedding, I'm at least happy you're with someone who'll try to make you happy."

  "Thank you, Roger, for everything. For being my best friend; for not leaving, and for walking me down the aisle. I know it must've been hard."

  "Yes, but no one else is better suited to the position, though I think Ray is a close second." Roger sighed and rested his head on her shoulder. "I can't believe how fast everything changed. Seems like yesterday we were hunting down criminals together."

  "And now we're criminals who have an alliance and work together. How often can I see you?"

  "That really depends on work. It won't be every day, or even every week, I suspect. For all I know, we'll go months without seeing each other."

  "Ugh... It's been hard enough going even a few days without talking to you, but I guess a few months is better than never." Grace sighed. "Can't we at least get together every week? You are nearby with the Morettis."

  "Grace..." His brows furrowed and grip on her tightened. "I don't know if that's a good idea." He knew he'd be tempted to do something, since she knew about his feelings, regardless of Zain.

  "Even if we bring Pez? I know he'd love to meet up with you every week, too."

  "How am I supposed to get over you if I see you every week?" He didn't actually want to get over her, but he didn't like his odds of waiting for the situation to change sometime in the future.

  "But..." She cringed, not sure what to say. She knew he was right, but it didn't make it any easier. Grace closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "That's your decision to make. Just know I'll miss you, and so will Pez. You can call me anytime. And since we're in an alliance, you can come over any time, too. Don't ever vanish on me." It was hard enough the first time.

  "I'll try not to." Roger swallowed hard. "Grace..." The music stopped, and she took a step away from him, tears in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. He wrapped his arms around her in a tight hug and kissed her cheek. "We'll see each other soon, but I want to say that the door between us will always be open," he whispered and walked away.

  What does that mean?

  Pez whistled as he came up to her. "I'm not much of a dancer, but I can't not dance with you at your own wedding," Pez bowed and held his hand out to her. "I know Zain's been waiting, but I'm going to hide in my cave with a plateful of desserts after this. Please don't let him come after me for dancing with you first." Pez shuddered. "I can even feel the animosity from him as he glares at me."

  Grace took his hand. "It's okay, Pez; he'll wait. I really didn't expect you to want a dance, since you don't like crowds."

  "But it's you we're talking about. You're one of my best friends; I have to be here. I'm also a part of the Bertolottis family, so we were all invited."

  "A little afraid to find out what would've happened if you didn't show up?"

  "Terrified of finding out!"

  Grace chuckled. "I'm sure he wouldn't do anything to you, but thank you for coming."

  "Even though you didn't know it was happening."

  "On that note, did you know?"

  "Uh, I think that was a long enough dance." Pez tried to pull away, but Grace tightened her grip and pulled him in closer.

  "That's a definite yes."

  "Don't be mad! He told me not to tell either of you two."

  Can't blame him for keeping quiet. "How long was this in the works?"

  "He started to plan it right after you announced your choice. He made sure everyone promised to keep it from you two and made sure all the Bertolottiss were here."

  "I don't know why I was surprised at all." Grace sighed. "He's been wanting this since before I got here."

  "Based on what I know of his history, I'd say he wants to make up for lost time with you... and with your parents. He has a lot of regrets, and didn't want to keep adding to them with the distance from you."

  "Have you talked to him much? I didn't think you'd be able to with how you are."

  "Hey, I resent that! But... I guess I know what you mean. He's super intimidating until he starts rambling about you and asking questions about you. He is a curious grandpa mob boss, indeed. You'd never guess how caring he is, or how much he wishes you'd let him dote on you."

  "Dote on me? How?"

  "Buy you stuff. He wants you to ask for things. I think he wants to flaunt all their riches and get you the best of everything around. He's rich enough for it, that's for sure; you saw the setup he bought me, and I'm just your friend."

  "Not just that; you're a Bertolottis now, and in charge of all electronic security and whatnot. You sound important to me."

  "And I wouldn't have been accepted at the drop of a hat unless I was connected to you."

  I suppose that's true.

  "Ha, this is tiring. I'm at my limit," Pez groaned, barely moving his feet.

  "Pez..." Grace sighed and stepped off to the side with him.

  "Yes?"

  "You know I love you, but you seriously need to exercise more. We weren't moving that much, and you're tired. At least add a short walk in, even if it's just around the estate."

  "It's the crowd! Being around so many people makes me tired faster. But... I'll think about it."

  "All I can ask, I suppose." Grace gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Go grab some food, and then you can retreat to your cave."

  "Yes, ma'am. Oh, and I hope you have a good time after this." Pez gave her a little wave and headed for the table of sweets.

  "A good time? What is he talking about?"

  Before Zain could approach her, Vincent stepped in. "I hope you're not too tired for a dance with me." He held his hand out to her.

  "Of course not. I'd love to have a dance with you." She took Vincent's hand.

  "You're looking ravishing, as always," Vincent whispered.

  "Ha ha, you don't need to flatter me so much, but thank you."

  "I'm not trying to flatter you; I'm stating my opinion. I don't know why you'd doubt it. You seem confident most of the time until someone compliments you. You don't need to be so humble. In fact, I don't think mafia bosses are humble at all." He chuckled. "We're an egotistical bunch."

  "Probably because you guys always have to deal with so much while leading your family."

  "I suppose. Some of us could use a bit of humbling, though."

  Grace looked into his eyes. "Are you sure it was okay to give up on ruling the Bertolottiss?"

  Vincent smirked. "I think you'll do a good job leading it, and seeing how in-love you two are, how could I keep standing in the way? That wouldn't feel right. Now, if you two breakup, and I'm available, you won't hold it against me if I pursue you, right?"

  "I... I don't think we'll breakup, but I guess I wouldn't. I'm not sure Roger would like it, though."

  "He would be my competition, then."

  "By the way, I know it hasn't been long, but how's he doing?"

  "Roger? He's... still adjusting and still pining. Don't worry; I'll make sure he's at least distracted soon enough."

  I feel like I shouldn't ask about that.

  "You won't be an easy woman to get over for either of us."

  Grace froze, but Vincent kept her moving. "I thought... that you were more interested in the title, and I just happen to be okay in your books, not that you actually... you know."

  "At first, I thought you were a means to an end, but you were also interesting. You've shown how strong you are, and how you don't like having to rely on others too much, and that you have an open mind. I wasn't sure you could stand being a part of the mafia, with your high ground as a cop, but I guess things have changed for you."

  "I've learned even more about how things aren't black and white, and that I can still do good without being a cop. I may not like everything we do, but there are things I will be able to do with my family, that I wouldn't be able to do as a cop. And as someone who's been more frustrated than you can imagine because a stupid technicality got in the way of capturing a bad guy, I can appreciate the roundabout."

  "Be careful how much darkness you let come in; it can push you too far."

  "Are you speaking from experience?"

  "Yes, actually. I've done unspeakable things... that I thought were necessary at the time, but I just couldn't see the other options. It's especially hard at the beginning." Vincent sighed, a far-sighted look in his eyes.

  "I have a feeling you've gone through a lot to become the man you are today."

  "You definitely wouldn't like who I was."

  "I like who you are now, though. You've surprisingly turned into quite the pillar of support for me. Thank you, Vincent; I'm glad I met you."

  "Don't make it sound like I'm out of your life now." He dipped her.

  "Oh!"

  "I plan to be a part of your life in some form for the foreseeable future." He smiled and pulled her back up. "At least as a friend and ally to you and the Bertolottiss, and only the future knows if it will turn into anything else." He wiggled his eyebrows.

  This man is definitely dangerous! Grace took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "Don't push your luck, Vincent."

  "Or else the mutt glaring at me will attack? Oh, I know." He chuckled. "But like our mutual friend, I'd rather not completely shut the door on our potential."

  "I plan to stay with Zain."

  "I know, but I also know that we never know what life will throw at us. I also wanted to make sure you know you can call on Roger or myself should you need assistance... with anything.

  "Aren't you a bit busy for that?"

  "I don't know... I have a reliable group of people who can help me with my work. Maybe I should make sure to sneak out and visit you from time to time." He winked at her.

  "Looking to cause trouble, are you?"

  He smirked and leaned in close to whisper in her ear. "If I can sway you after you've committed yourself to him, maybe you two aren't as in love as I thought you were."

  "Quit it, you." Grace shook her head. "There's no space for you between us. You're just... charming, that's all." And handsome.

  "Hmm, charming? I like the sound of that, but I hope I'm more than charming."

  "Wise and handsome. Don't tell Zain I said that; he'll get jealous."

  "Pretty sure he's already jealous, because I'm dancing with you right now, but alright. I don't want to get you into more trouble." The song ended, and Vincent sighed. "I would've liked to keep you in my arms longer, but I'd rather not get attacked right now and make a scene at your wedding." In one swift movement, he swooped in and kissed right beside her mouth. "Well, not too much of a scene. Arrivederci, cara mia." He walked away, leaving her stunned.

  "Are you trying to make me jealous or what?" Zain asked from behind, startling her.

  "Oh, Zain..." Grace frowned, her brows furrowed. "What are you talking about?"

  "I'm your husband, and I get the fifth dance with you? Plus, you love at least two other men and have no issue kissing them." Zain grumbled.

  "On the cheek! And they're my best friends." Vincent kissed me... Grace rolled her eyes and grabbed his tie. She yanked on it, pulling him close, and stared into his eyes. "You're my husband, and you know I'm not giving them up, so you'll have to put up with that. As for the dancing part, you're next." She gave him a quick peck on the lips and led him onto the dance floor by his tie.

  "You are such trouble," Zain said in a low growl.

  "You knew that before you married me."

  "I suppose that's true." Zain smirked and wrapped his arms around her. "You've been trouble since the moment you stepped foot in the estate."

  "Isn't it more like trouble since you guys kidnapped me?"

  "Never going to get past that, are you?" Zain sighed and gave her a twirl.

  "I married you! Ha... I think I still need time for it to sink in. I'm married..."

  "Yes, you are." He lifted her into the air and kissed her as he turned.

  "Wow, ha ha," Grace giggled and held onto him. "How does it feel, Mr. Bertolottis? Does it feel weird to take your wife's name?"

  "Not at all, Mrs. Bertolottis; it feels perfect. Did they tell you what comes after this?"

  "Um... No..."

  "They've set it up so we can go to one of the Bertolottis vacation homes for our honeymoon."

  "We get a honeymoon? Wait, the Bertolottiss have more than one vacation home?"

  "You still don't realize how much of a rich heiress you are, do you?"

  "And if we choose, doesn't that mean it'll be another day? We'd need plane tickets—"

  "Private jet."

  "Right... What was I thinking?"

  "Anywhere you want to go? Europe? Asia? Just go up north more? We've got a great one in the country if you don't want to leave."

  "I've never gone travelling, but I'm not sure I want to."

  "Oh?" Zain raised an eyebrow. "I thought you'd be gung-ho to go to Europe or something."

  "I don't like long plane rides, and where would you want to go?"

  "I don't mind staying in the country; less distraction. I'd rather focus on you, not sightseeing." Zain leaned in close and kissed her ear.

  "H-hey!" Grace twitched away. "A little much with an audience here."

  "And our vacation home up north is nice and secluded. It's also a safe house for if we need to hide out, but it's better to call it a vacation home. So, let's go up north." He lifted her up over his shoulder and took off.

  "Hey, what are you doing?!" Grace covered her burning face with her hands.

  "Whisking you away." Zain ran off past their guests and family with a wide grin.

  "Oh my gosh... This isn't a good look for the future leader!" Grace complained, still hiding her face in her hands.

  "Everyone here knows we're married; they're not going to think less of you for being whisked away by your new husband on your wedding day. If anything, there're probably a bunch of them cheering for us, Boss included."

  "Sadly, you're probably right..."

  "Sadly? Why's that? It's awesome to have people root for you. It's our wedding day, enjoy it!" Zain slapped her on the butt as he laughed and skipped towards the limo, waiting for them.

  "Ah! Hey! I warned you last time about that."

  "But we're together now... It's not a big deal, right?"

  "Ha..." Grace growled and slapped him back. He jolted a bit and stopped right by the limo. "The surprise smack isn't so nice, is it? And unless I say otherwise, assume what I've told you before to still be in effect."

  "Uh... I actually didn't mind since it's you. A little startling, but kinda hot. And does this mean you're going to make good on your threat? I mean, I'm kinda fond of my man-parts, and was hoping they'd be a part of our upcoming fun."

  "Zain... Please stop talking and put me down."

  Zain opened the door to the limo and laid her down in the back. As he spoke to the driver, Grace sighed and stared at the ring on her finger. "Such a whirlwind."

  Zain slammed the door shut behind him. "Okay, wifey, we're on route, and I think it's time we start enjoying ourselves." He crawled over her, since she was still lying down, waiting for him. "No one around to interrupt us." He kissed her, and she wrapped her arms around his neck. "I can't believe how much Boss kept popping up."

  "Mm... Zain?"

  "Yes?"

  "Shut up." Grace pulled him down for a deep kiss, and he moaned.

  The limo went over a bump, and it sent them tumbling off the back seat.

  "Ow..." Zain groan as his back hit the floor.

  "Crap." Grace pushed herself up, ready to get off of Zain, but his arms wrapped around her waist. "What are you doing?"

  "Enjoying the view." Zain smirked. "And if we go back on the seat, it might happen again. Maybe we should just stay on the floor."

  "You want to have sex on the limo floor?" She looked over at it. "It looks clean, but I don't know..."

  Zain raised an eyebrow as he silently stared at her.

  "What?"

  "I honestly didn't think you'd be open to doing it in a moving vehicle. I thought we were just going to make out and maybe get a little extra handsy right now."

  Grace's face turned bright red, and she tried to pull away from him again. "I thought... you wanted that with how you were talking. I guess I was wrong. Let go." She tapped on his arms.

  "Hmm... I definitely don't want to let go, if that's what you had in mind." Instead of letting go, he slid one hand down her backside as the other reached for the tie at the back of her dress. "In fact, I love that idea."

  "Uh, maybe you were right, and we shouldn't do it in a moving vehicle." Quite a few things could go wrong.

  "But now that you've put the idea in my head, all I can think about is getting you out of this dress." The tie came loose, and he slowly unthreaded her dress.

  "But... Mmm..." She held back a moan. "I... don't have anything else to wear."

  "You've got one of those slip things underneath, and we have packed bags in the trunk. If you want, you can have my shirt," Zain smirked. "You can have my jacket, too; I don't want you feeling cold while I carry you to our vacation home."

  That's right; we're going straight there. Grace smirked and loosened his tie. Once she did that, he knew he had got her. "You make it hard to say no, Zain," she whispered his name and kissed his neck, making him shudder. "Besides, it'd be cruel of me to leave my new hubby this hot'n bothered when I'm the one who caused it."

  "Yes, it would be." Zain tugged her dress down off her shoulders and trailed a finger down her back.

  "Mmm... I hope the ride isn't too bumpy."

  "Who cares? We'll definitely have some fun." Zain sat up with her to toss his jacket aside and nearly rip his shirt off to get it out of the way. "I'll try not to rip the dress."