The SUBSTITUTE WIFE RETURNS

was louder than the music that was playing in the background and resonating in my chest. "You ready, huh?" my father said, his eyes going up and down my body. "I... I beli

in sickness and in health, in wealth and in poverty, until death part you?" "I do, " said Damien, and his voice was deep and steady and echoed in the silent church. "And do you, Alina Hale, accept Damien Blackwood as your lawfully married husband, to love and cherish, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish, in sickness and in health, in wealth and in poverty until death part you?" I gulp and said, I do, my voice trembling a little then I made myself sound confident. I could hear my heart beat in my ears, but I kept the ideal mask of a bride, as my father insisted. "Now by the authority with me, I declare you husband and wife. You kiss the bride," said the priest with a smiling face. Damien leaned in. Then very cautiously he pulled up the veil. Time froze. My breath caught in my throat. I watched his eyes just open, a little, an inch of astonishment in the manner of his gaze. I felt the recognition, but he made no comment. His jaw clenched a second and I was sure, he was sure. He knew it wasn't Alina. He knew it was me. And yet... he didn't pull back. He kissed me. He remained near my side till the end of the ceremony, and silently watched over the charade. Every step I took, he was there. The ceremony was concluded with the guests cheering and applauding and congratulating each other. "Congratulations!" they shouted. I smiled and nodded and maintained my voice. "Thanks," I said, my throat parched, heart racing like a drum. Damien stayed near me at the reception. He could laugh at the right time, he could say polite words to the guests, shake hands, and smile, still, I could feel that he was always l