{TRIGGER WARNING! EXPLICIT CONTENT! DO NOT READ IF YOU CAN'T HANDLE IT, THANK YOU! Otherwise, enjoy!}



I drop down on the couch and look out through the window. The sun shines bright in the sky and I wish I could enjoy it while it lasts.

I used to love being outside when the sun was out. I used to love staying out with my cousins all night, even when we weren't allowed to.

But here I am, sitting inside while everyone is busy with their own stuff.

I can hear a soft knock on the door and blink as birds fly by. The door opens and I can hear someone walking into the room.

'Hey, you.' I look at the door and see Veah walking into the room with a soft smile on her face. 'Hey.'

I cross my legs and move some pillows so that she can sit on the couch as well.

'Everything okay?' I nod and look back through the window, trying to focus on the sun or the birds, or maybe even the clouds. 'Why?'

'Rio told me you locked yourself away.' She says as she drops down next to me.

I lean over and place my head on her shoulder as I keep my eyes on the window.

The sky is blue, but I want to see it turn pink or purple or orange as the sun is about to set.

'He'll kill me for telling you this, but he thinks you're still mad at him for what he tried to do to Isabelle.'

I should be.

'I'm not,' I can feel her eyes on me as she takes a deep breath, 'He just wanted to protect us. It's what he always does.'

'That's a common thing, isn't it?' I look up at her and smile, 'He always does stupid shit to keep his family safe.'

'Including almost getting himself killed.' I mumble, feeling dread run down my spine.

He's doing much better now, but it still hurts to see him so... wounded.

Rio could barely walk for a week and, despite our protests, he wouldn't listen to us when we told him to rest.

He was stubborn as usual and he sometimes still is.

'As if you didn't.' Veah says, making me turn to her. 'I wasn't thinking clearly.' 'I bet he wasn't either.'

I roll my eyes, wondering how she went from wanting him as far away from me as possible and hating his absolute guts to siding with him when it came to stuff like this.

'He said that you locked yourself in here because your mom was too tired to go to lunch with you.' Idiot...

I don't like the way he knows how I feel, but at the same time, I do. I just didn't need to hear it right now.

'He also sensed you didn't want to leave.' My heart expands, making it feel like I'm about to explode again. 'He sensed right.' I take a deep breath and try to control my tears, but it seems impossible.

'He said that we could stay a little longer if you want?' I sit up and shake my head while blinking like a maniac to stop the tears from coming out. 'It's not safe and I don't want to risk my family getting hurt.'

'Leya, we have people making sure they won't.' I know...

'I don't want to risk it.' She nods and pulls me back against her shoulder, letting her hand go up and down my back to somehow calm me down.

'Is it because of your mom?' Her words sting like a bitch and I hate I'm unable to stop a tear from tearing through my eyes.

It rolls down my cheek and I'm too frozen to wipe it away.

'Hey?' Fuck. Veah lets go of me again and looks straight at my face, wiping my tear away for me since I won't, before frowning a bit, 'What's wrong?'

'I don't fucking know.' I feel like shit. I don't want to leave my family. I don't want to leave my mom. I don't want to risk them dying because of our presence.

She pulls me in her arms, gracing me with one of her much-needed warm hugs, and I let the tears escape.

I don't like crying and she knows that too, but I just don't know what's wrong with me.

I should be spending time with my mom while we're here, I should be spending time with my cousins and aunts and uncles, but instead, I'm locking myself in my room, away from all of them.

'I'm a shit cousin for not spending time with my family and I'm a shit daughter for not spending time with my mom.'

Instead of telling me that it's not true, instead of telling me that I'm overreacting, she does what she always does.

'What makes you say that?'

Her question makes my heart burst and I latch onto her as if I'll drown if I don't.

I shrug and try to calm down, not wanting to look like a complete idiot. Not even in front of her.

I feel stupid for crying about this when I could easily do something about it.

'I should be spending time with my family, but I'm on the verge of tears as soon as one of them tries to speak to me.'

'You just don't want to miss them.' Right... I try to hold back my tears, but the sobs keep escaping and I absolutely hate it.

'It's just stupid that I'm so emotional.' She chuckles and leans back just far enough to look at me as she tilts her head a little.

'Cataleya, you're pregnant remember?' I blink a few times and almost laugh at her little reminder, but then it hits me.

I am pregnant and I certainly didn't forget since my little belly is finally starting to show, but I didn't think about my pregnancy being the reason for my emotional state.

'What the actual fuck.' Neveah laughs as I wipe my face and take a deep breath, trying to contain my own smile as I realize that everything makes so much sense.

I'm being a crybaby because of the hormones.

'I didn't even take that into consideration.' I say as I try to keep my nose from running. 'I'm sorry for being a mess.' 'I think I was way worse.'

I can't contain the laugh ripping through me and hug her again, silently thanking her for making me somehow calm down even though she wasn't really trying.

'I don't want to leave mom.' I whisper, finally letting it off my chest.

I know it's dangerous for us to stay in one place for too long, but I can't bring myself to leave. No matter how much I think about it, I just don't want to leave her.

And I know that we've been apart before, but this time it just feels different. Almost everyone I loved has almost died this year and I can't help but wonder if someone will actually die next.

I don't want it to be her.

It can't be her.

'I know it's not safe and all, but I just don't want anything to happen to her while we're not here. I mean, what if she-'

'Cataleya.' She cuts me off before I start going into the maze of my thoughts, 'She's your mother and you love her very much, but she wouldn't want you to stop living because of her.'

I hate that she's right. I hate that her words are exactly something my mom would say. I hate that she knows.

I slump down, back into her arms, and take a few shaky breaths to calm myself down.

'She loves you with everything she has and she would hate for you to stop everything you're doing to make sure she's okay.'

I nod and remind myself of good stuff. Chemo is going okay, could be better, but it's helping. She has been tired, but that's it. She will be here for a few more years.

And everything will be fine because she'll be safe.

'Do you think you'll be up for a surprise dinner later?' She asks as she simply holds me. It takes me a few seconds to realize what she's saying, but as soon as the words process through my rollercoaster of a brain, I lean back to look at her.

'What?' I ask with a frown on my face.

She nods and leans back on the couch, getting comfortable, 'So Brandon kind of told the others that you married Rio, but he didn't tell them how so now they think you two eloped and got married without any wedding at all.'

Great... Maybe that's why Tina was being so distant yesterday.

'So Maria asked me if I could host a party so that we could somewhat celebrate your wedding, but if you're not in the mood, I'll cancel the whole thing.'

And just like that, the tears form in my eyes again.

I don't know if it's because she planned it all as a surprise or because she's asking if I am able to celebrate something while I'm being an emotional mess.

'No. Please don't.' I whisper, placing my hand on hers, 'I will be fine for one night.'

'Are you sure?' She asks, looking into my eyes as she squeezes my hand a little.

I nod and smile at her, squeezing her hand back, before saying, 'Yes. I wouldn't want anything to go to waste.'

'Leya, if you're not-' 'I'll manage. I promise.' I know she's worried, but I know I'll be fine, 'Plus, it can be somewhat of a goodbye party too.'

She analyses me as if I don't sound certain enough, but I am.

I want this, I want to spend time with my family.

And if she won't stop staring at me like this, I'll drag her down to the party and show her how much I want this.

'When does it start?' I ask to let her know that I want this. 'Brandon left a dress downstairs for you and Victoria will pick you up around seven, but you don't know about anything I just told you since it's a surprise and all.'

'I indeed have no clue what you're talking about.' I joke as she smiles at me.

'Guess I should head back to making sure everything goes through.' She states and I watch as she jumps to her feet, 'Are you sure you'll be okay for now?'

I nod and give her hand another squeeze, before letting go, 'I promise I'll be fine.'

'Just text me if you need anything, okay?' I nod and smile as she walks out of the door, listening to her footsteps fade as she walks down the hall.

I sigh deeply and turn back to the window to stare at the sky.

The last time I checked it was around four. I bet it's around six right now, which means I still have enough time left to take a shower and do my hair.

I get up and make my way to the closet to grab some underwear, wondering if I should go down to check what dress Brandon left me or not.

But I decide to wait a little longer and shower first.

'What's wrong?' Rio's voice startles me since I didn't hear him open the door. 'I'm an emotional mess.'

He frowns as he moves closer and quickly glances at the underwear in my hands. 'Are you tired?'

'I'm a little tired.' I reply as I slowly drop onto the bed, facing the handsome man in front of me.

Almost his entire body fills the doorway, making me smile when his worried eyes land on me again.

'Why?' He stays there, his eyes lingering all over me to see if something is wrong or if I'm hurt.

'Because of the baby and the emotions.' I mumble as he walks over to me, gently placing his hand on my jaw to make me look at him.

His fingers grace my skin with the most delicate touch and I can feel the heat rush through my body as if it's trying to win a race.

'Our baby.' he whispers, making it sound like he's correcting me.

I smile and nod, looking into his enchanting eyes that somehow seem to be pulling us closer.

'Yes,' I take his hand and bring it to my belly, 'Our baby.'

He looks down at the small bump and looks like he's about to burst from excitement, but also fear.

Rafael crouches down in between my legs and keeps his eyes on my belly as if it might disappear any second now.

'To think that you didn't want to have kids.' I joke as I keep my eyes on him.

His lips curl up a bit, even though doubt takes over his features, 'I'm still unsure.'

'Why?' I don't want him to doubt himself. I don't want him to go into this with fear. I don't want him to feel like he has no other way.

'Because I feel like I already want to kill everyone who gets even an inch too close to you.' He says before sighing and finally dragging his gaze to meet mine, 'And because I know I will go insane if it will be a girl.'

I roll my eyes and shove him back, almost making him tumble back because he didn't expect it.

'You're being an ass.' I get back up and grab the underwear I placed to my right, before turning around to walk toward the bathroom.

Rio's already standing right behind me, his hard chest colliding with mine. 'I'm not saying I would love her less if it was a girl, I just don't think a girl would be fit for this life right now.'

'I don't care what you think, because I know it's going to be a girl and she will be just as capable of living this life as her mother.' He looks at me and tries to hide his smile while he shakes his head at me, 'You're crazy.'

'Why am I suddenly crazy?' Something playful sparks through his eyes and I can't help but tilt my head to see if I'll notice it again.

'You have always been crazy.' I cross my arms, dropping the clothes I was holding, and watch as he stares at the clothes on the floor for a few seconds before he meets my gaze again.

'You have five seconds-' 'It's a good thing that you're crazy because otherwise, you would've never survived all of this.' He takes a step closer, a hint of fire in his eyes.

He's trying to lure me out, and by the looks of it, it's working.

'What would we name her?' I ask, desperately trying to defuse the tension that's starting to grow between my legs, 'If we get a girl, which we will.'

He smiles to himself before kneeling down to grab the clothes I just dropped, but doesn't get back up when he picks them off the floor.

He simply stays on his knees at my feet, the sight of him driving me more insane than it should.

It's the hormones...

'I was thinking about Valentina.' I say, trying to ignore the fact that him looking up at me is driving me insane.

He frowns for a second, before shaking his head. 'Why not?'

'What would I call you?' Wife...

I love it when he calls me his wife, it makes my heart melt all over again and I don't think that will ever change.

But Valentina has been his thing ever since...

'I mean, I could go back to calling you Velez.' I inhale sharply, the thought of that is making my blood boil for some reason, and I take a step away from him. 'If you do that I will-'

His hand goes to my waist before I can take another step back and he pulls me back to my original spot, staying on his knees in front of me.

'What did you have in mind?' I ask as I can feel my cheeks heat up because of his hand placement. 'I always liked the name, Arabella. '

The way the name rolls out of his mouth is making my heart skip a beat.

I know he's not talking about me or calling me anything, but I can't help but get excited about it.

'And what if it's a boy?' I ask as I let him pull me closer. 'I thought you said you were sure about our baby being a girl?'

I almost shove him away again, but instead, lean down to his face and tease him back.

He leans in for a kiss, his eyes closed and his lips ready to meet mine and set me ablaze again, but I step back, snatch the clothes from his hands, and run into the bathroom.

Rio grunts as he gets off the floor and follows me into the bathroom.

'Can I take a shower?' He nods and leans against the wall, crossing his arms as if he has every right to be here. 'Alone?'

'I'm not joining you so you are showering alone.' He taunts as the playfulness sparks through his eyes again. 'Can I shower without you watching me?'

'You would have to kill me to make me stop watching you, Valentina.' Fuck.

My knees go weak at the tone of his voice and I curse at myself for letting him get to me like this even though I'm enjoying every second of it.

He wraps his strong arms around me and looks at me as if I'm going to collapse in his arms, making me smile.

Rafael will always catch me. He'll do anything in his power to keep me safe, to love me, to make sure I'm okay.

'You okay?' He asks, his tone all worried and nervous again.

I nod and pull him closer, leaning in for another kiss, 'Seems like you are joining me in the shower.'

It takes him a few seconds to understand what I'm saying, but as soon as he processes everything, he turns on the faucet of the bathtub.

Even though I wanted to take a quick shower, I can't bring myself to tell him to stop whatever it is he has in mind.

His hands hungrily reach for the hem of my shirt and I can't help but shiver at his touch.

It feels like everything is heightened. Every little touch, every word he says differently, every breath of fresh air.

It's all connected to him. It's all heightened because of him.

My skin tingles and ignites at his touch and I try to rid him of his clothes too, but he stops me and lifts me up in his arms.

His clothes feel hard against my bare skin and I wish I would've been faster so that I could feel his skin against mine.

'Your clothes.' I whisper against his lips as he kisses me deeply. He shakes his head and moves his lips toward my neck, leaving slow and gentle kisses like a trail of fire on my skin.

'I love touching you.' He mutters between kisses, making my heart race and my legs tense up again, 'Your body is so responsive.'

His breath brushes against my skin and it feels like every nerve in my body is on the verge of exploding.

'Rio-' I whimper, not caring about how desperate I must sound to him because he seems to revel in it.

He bites into my skin, before looking up at me while kissing away the pain with his soft lips.

'What do you want, Valentina?' If he wasn't holding me, I would've dropped to the floor because my knees go weak again.

'I want you.' I breathe, noticing the room is slowly filling with steam. 'Where do you want me?'

His hands slide to my waist and everything seems to melt away, all the words I wanted to say, all the thoughts that clouded my mind, all the dangers we have to face.

Everything just disappears into the fire that only seems bigger than before.

As if everything going on is some kind of fuel to our chemistry.

'Tell me.' He whispers as he rubs me against himself. 'I want to feel you.' I am somehow able to bring out.

'Where do you want to feel me?' He asks, leaning back just enough to turn off the water since the bathtub is filled far enough.

I needily latch onto him when he moves back, wanting to feel every inch he has to offer with those stupid clothes on.

'Everywhere.' I groan and all I do is wait for him to continue.

He takes his time, slowly lifting me into the warm bath and kneeling next to me. 'We have to take it easy.'

I lean back against the tub, letting my nerves burn underneath the water even though my body is already heated up because of the tension.

'Why?' I ask as I look up at him while I let everything soak.

'I don't want anything to happen to the baby.' I roll my eyes and pull his arm into the tub, wanting him to join me like I said, but he chuckles and places his hand on my thigh.

I gasp for air and feel his fingers teasing me underneath the water.

He needs to get closer. He needs to undress and get in here with me. He needs to make me feel.

'The baby will be fine.' I breathe as he circles his fingers on my skin and presses his lips against my neck again. 'You said you were tired.' I did...

But that doesn't mean I don't want this any less.

He drove me to the edge but doesn't want to push me the wrong way since I said I was a bit tired.

This is like him asking me if I really want this. And I do...

'I want this.' I state, turning around to face him fully, 'I want you.'

Fire sparks through his eyes and I inch over to the edge again, letting my hands go up and down the exposed skin on his neck.

'I want you, Rafael.' I repeat, slowly moving to the first button of his shirt.

He inhales slowly, his jaw clenching, and keeps his eyes on mine. 'You have me, Valentina.'

I'm sitting down, but I can't help but slip down further at the way he says my name.

'You have every inch of me.' He moves up, allowing me space to unbutton his shirt even further, 'Everything I am is yours.'

I kiss him as soon as all the buttons are undone and quickly shove the shirt down his shoulders as he gets up to take off his pants.

Our lips collide as soon as he gets into the tub and I rub myself against his legs, trying to somehow get what I want.

And that's him.

I want all of him.

I want all he has to offer.

The darkness, the fears, the love, the hate, the death, the pain, the joy. Everything.

I want everything this man, my man, has to offer and I'll take it.

'Valentina, we should take it slow.' He breathes against my mouth, making me want to groan.

I love him with all I have and I love it when he cares, but right now I don't want him to care. I want him to touch me, kiss me, fuck me, and nothing more.

He leans in, letting me sit down as he slowly spreads my legs and pulls me to his waist. I quickly place my hands on the bottom of the tub even though Rio is making sure my head won't go underwater and keep my eyes on him as he settles between my legs.

I can feel his tip teasing my entrance and try to slowly move my hips up so that I can feel him inside of me.

His eyes go over my face, taking in every inch of me as he slowly leans down to kiss me. As soon as our lips touch, I can feel him slide into me, and I gasp for air against his lips.

Even this, this gentle encounter, feels ten times stronger than it should.

He lets his hand drag up and down my legs, the warm water suddenly feeling cold where his fingers have been.

I let my head roll back as he slowly buries himself deep inside of me, arching up to try and take him even deeper.

'You're driving me insane.' He mumbles as he starts kissing my damp skin.

I don't know if it's because of the water or because of the heat coming off of us, but he doesn't seem to care.

He slowly starts moving, pushing and pulling me closer to himself, and my head starts to spin.

This is different than all the times we had sex before. It's a lot more sensual and intimate.

He places my head on the edge of the tub and moves even closer, the water sloshing against the side of the tub at the sudden movement, before placing his hand on the side of my neck.

I want him to wrap it around my neck and pull me closer, but this, the way his hand is placed where his lips just were, the water dripping down his hand, all of it is something I need more right now.

'You take me so well.' He moans as he fights the urge to go faster. Because he wants it too.

He just doesn't want to tire me out.

'Rafael, please.' I beg, needing more of him if I want to stay sane. 'Please what, baby?'

I wearily shake my head and lean up, trying to get closer to his face so that I can kiss him, 'I want more.'

'I know.' He replies before pressing his lips on mine and wrapping his arms around my waist.

He lifts me up and I shiver because of the sudden cold rushing over my skin, clinging onto him since he's the only heat I'll need.

His arms feel like a shield meant to protect me from everything evil and I've never felt safer.

He slowly leans back, placing me on his lap as he leans against the side of the tub.

The water warms my skin again, but it's not enough. The warmth of the water doesn't reach every inch of me like Rio's warmth does.

I roll my hips, feeling him get deep inside of me as the water splashes between us.

'Fuck-' He grunts as he lowers his hands to my waist and tries to press me down on him even more.

Something inside of me starts expanding again and I wrap my arms around his neck, letting my lips graze against his damp skin.

I let my hands wrap around his head, his soft hair tingling against my fingers.

'Don't stop.' He moans, making me want to record it for some reason.

I could listen to him moaning until the day I die.

'Keep riding me, Valentina.' He moans as I slowly drag my hips across his lap, feeling the knot in my stomach expand, 'Just like that.' Fucking hell...

This man has a way with words and I absolutely love him for it.

I bite into his skin, trying to calm myself down even though he's the one hurting.

'Stop talking.' I whisper as I kiss his skin again. All while trying to keep the knot from expanding even more.

He grabs me by my hair and pulls me back gently, making me moan as he thrusts himself up. 'Why?'

'Because I'm close.' I groan as I try to go slower to enjoy the moment a little longer. He leans up, still holding my hair, and places his lips on my breast, the tension rising by the second.

'Rio-' I moan as the world starts to spin again. I can feel myself losing it, and fight the orgasm threatening to rip through me, just to keep him close like this a little longer.

'Don't fight it.' He grunts as his body tenses underneath me. I lock eyes with him and watch as he watches me.

I push myself into him and feel my whole body tense as my orgasm finally reaches breaking point.

My body heats up and I try to stay in the warmth for as long as I can, my body trembling as I slump down against his chest.

He continues to move my body, making me ride out my high while I wait for him to explode too.

And when he does, I feel my body tense up again, as if I'm going through another orgasm without having to do anything.

He wraps his arms around me and hold me close as he tries to catch his breath, making me feel warm and loved.

'Are you okay?' He asks as he lets some warm water drip down my back. I nod and tilt my head to see his face and notice a soft smile on his lips. 'That was different.'

'Did you not enjoy it?' He asks with a hint of playfulness in his voice.

'What do you think?' I ask as he slowly turns me around so that my back is facing his chest.

He pulls me between his legs and brushes my hair off my shoulders so that he can run his hands across my skin.

It all starts tingling again and I don't know if he knows what he's doing.

Because if he keeps going like this, we'll have to go for another round.

'I found a dress downstairs.' He whispers as he leans to the side to grab my shampoo bottle, 'Why was there a dress downstairs?' So they didn't tell him?

'They're hosting a small second wedding for us,' I answer, letting him wet my hair with the water surrounding us, 'And it can be like a goodbye party too.'

'And why was I not informed of this?' I can't help but smile at his surprised tone. 'Sucks, doesn't it?'

He stiffens behind me and I can hear him taking a deep breath.

'Do you want to go?' He asks after a short moment of silence. I nod and look over my shoulder, frowning at his lack of enthusiasm, but he turns me back around and lathers my hair up with shampoo.

'Do you?' I wait for him to answer and let my eyes roll back as his fingers massage my skull. 'I'll be there if you will.'

His answer feels wrong and I know he's trying to cover it up by touching me, but it won't slip my mind.

'That's not what I asked.' He takes a deep breath and continues to lather the shampoo in my hair, making sure that every single strand gets taken care of as he speaks, 'I just don't know if you have the energy for it.'

I roll my eyes and turn back around, making him stare at me in shock. 'I am perfectly capable of handling myself for one night, Rio.'

'I know you are.' He says, pulling me closer as he grabs my hair and rinses some of it, 'But I also know that you would rather suffer than admit you're tired.'

I stare into his enchanting eyes and take a deep breath, almost forgetting what we were just talking about because of his gorgeous eyes.

'So I wouldn't want to go to a party where you would tire yourself out, Valentina.' I melt into his touch and feel water drip down my back as he tries to rinse all the shampoo out of my hair.

'What if we make a deal?' He rinses the last part of my hair and slowly pulls me closer. 'What type of deal?'

'If I feel too tired to attend, I'll tell you.' He tries to hide his smile and leans closer to kiss me, but stops just inches away from my lips. 'You wouldn't.'

'I'm telling you right now that I would.' I state, melting as he kisses me as soon as I finish my sentence.

'Or you could just use your sixth sense to know if I'm alright or not.' Because he always knows.

Sometimes it feels like he knows way before I even do. Just like my mother...

'Okay.' He whispers against my lips, 'But in order to do that, I'll have to make a few arrangements.'

I nod and move to the other side of the tub, fighting the urge to latch onto him as he gets up and walks towards the towel rack on the other side of the tub.

I move to the place closest to him and peek over the edge of the tub as I wade in the warm water.

Every move he makes seems heavenly and I follow him with my eyes as he dries himself with one of the towels.

'Stop looking at me like that.' He says with a smile on his face. 'Why?'

'Because we won't be able to go to that party if you keep looking at me that way.'

My heart skips a beat and I almost squeeze my legs together to keep myself composed. 'I hate you.'

He chuckles as he wraps the towel around his waist and heads for the door, 'I know you do.'

I lean back and let the water calm down my nerves, trying to defuse the tension his words left me in.

When I close my eyes, all I can think about is him. The man I married. The man I love.

The father of my child.

To think that almost two years ago I hated this man with my entire being.

I finish my bath and make sure my hair is taken care of before I rinse myself in the shower and dry my body with a towel.

When I make my way into the bedroom, I notice a dark crimson red dress on the bed, placed with a note.

It's from Brandon:

𝒜𝓃𝑜𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝑔𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝑜𝓊𝓈 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶 𝑔𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝑜𝓊𝓈 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃

I smile and remind myself to thank Brandon for making this dress, before looking at the time. It's almost seven

I look at myself in the mirror and stare at my belly. I hadn't really noticed the bump that much before, but since this dress is a bit more fitted near my stomach area, it's way more noticeable than before.

The dress is perfect, but I didn't expect any less since Brandon made it.

It has soft feathers at the top and bottom for the dress and falls just below my knees.

The dress wraps around my waist, giving me more of an hourglass figure than I thought I had, and really bringing out my breasts.

'Brandon does know you're going out to see your family, right?' I look in the mirror to see Rio standing by the door.

His eyes drag across my body, making me smile at the sight of him in his suit.

He looks amazing in his black suit that somehow matches my dress perfectly.

'It's perfect, don't you think?' He inhales sharply as I turn around to face him and looks into my eyes.

As if he'll go feral if he won't take his eyes off of my body.

'You are perfect.' He says, slowly stepping closer, 'The dress just adds to it.'

I feel my cheeks glowing and take a step closer as well. 'Says the handsome man in a suit.'

He takes my hand and lifts it to his lips, my wedding ring sparkling between us. 'How much time do we have left?'

I can hear a door open somewhere in the house and let a sigh escape my lips, 'A few seconds.'

'Fuck it.' He leans in to kiss me and wraps his arms around my waist to pull me closer. I let my arms wrap around his neck and try to fight his willingness to lift me up and do what he wants, because Victoria or anyone else could walk in here any moment.

'Ew!' Rio's eyes widen as he looks at the little girl in the frame of the door.

She's wearing a white dress that looks a little bit like mine but has a flowery print to it.

'Why were you kissing?!' She asks, pointing at Rio as she moves closer, 'You are not allowed to kiss her yet!'

Rio looks at us confused, which is hilarious if you ask me, and all Victoria does is glare at him. 'You're not married yet!'

I stay silent and let them hash it out, simply watching from a distance as Rio starts to panic.

'We are, you were there, remember?' She shakes her head and gives him a shove, making me laugh because he seems shocked still. 'No kissing until you're married!'

'We are married though so I'm allowed to kiss my wife, right?' She shakes her head and turns to me while trying to push Rio away from me.

'Did you really get married already?' She asks with a sweet voice, the total opposite of what she used to talk to Rio a few seconds ago.

I nod and watch as she steps closer to me, 'When?'

'The big party not so long ago.' I try to remind her without bursting out laughing because of Rio's shocked face, 'Remember?'

She thinks about it for a few seconds, digging deep into her memory, and smiles, 'Yes! I was the flower girl!'

I nod and let her take my hand as she leads me toward the hall, leaving Rio with wide eyes.

She leads me back to my mother's place and closes every door behind us, taunting Rio since he is a little further behind.

'Follow me.' She let's go of my hand and rushes to the garden where I can already see the lights turned on as the sun colors the sky a pretty orange color.

We follow her into the garden and notice everyone on the patio, 'Surprise!'

Everyone is wearing white with red accents, just like at the actual wedding.

Even my grandparents cleaned up for this second wedding.

Tina and Rosa run over to me and almost squeeze me to death as they hug me. 'We hate you for not telling us you got married to the hunk of your dreams!'

I roll my eyes and hear the others laughing in the distance, even Rio seemed to enjoy hearing that.

'Solo callate.' I whisper into their ears, before slowly letting them go, 'It was a spontaneous decision.'

All the others head over for a hug as well, congratulating me on my marriage to Rafael and telling me how happy they are for me.

I almost burst into tears again, but hold onto Rio's hand instead.

After talking for a while, everyone takes a seat around the big table set outside.

My mother gets up and lifts her glass before looking at me, 'To my beautiful and strong daughter.'

I feel Rio's hand as he places it on my thigh underneath the table and quickly glance at him, before looking back at my mother, 'To the love she found when she met Rafael.'

All eyes are on him and I can feel his hand tense on my leg, so I quickly place my hand on his and rub over his knuckles.

'May they live a life filled with love and passion for one another.' Mom continues, making my heart leap for a second.

As if we're officially getting married all over again. 'May their life be filled with joy and strength from their family.'

I turn to my left and take Veah's hand in mine, smiling at her, before turning back to my mom.

'And may God support them in every way they need!' She finishes before turning back to me.

'Salud!' Everyone cheers and takes a sip of their juices since there won't be any booze served at this table.

'Salud.' I mutter as I turn to thank my mom first. I had no clue she prepared a speech for me.

We enjoy dinner and talk about things that happened in the past like we always do when we get together again.

Tio Samu proudly rushes inside to come back a few seconds later with a music box. He puts on some music and tries to make everyone dance.

My grandparents start dancing, talking about how they danced to the song when they were younger, and I can't help but smile at the sight of them dancing in each other's arms.

Abuela stops dancing mid-song and walks over to Rio, 'Bailar conmigo!'

Rio's eyes widen, but before he can decline, I give him a little nudge and abuela pulls him closer.

They move to the middle of the patio and start dancing together, making me and some others laugh.

Leon walks over to me and holds out his hand, waiting for me to take it.

I take his hand and let him lead the way to the so-called dancefloor.

'We should record this moment and use it as leverage.' He says as he nudges his head at my husband and abuela dancing together.

I laugh and glance over my shoulder, watching as Rio easily dances around with my grandmother.

'That wouldn't be fair.' I chime as I turn back to face my friend. 'As if he has ever been fair.' He taunts before spinning me around.

I place my hand on his shoulder and smile at him, 'We're better than that.'

He thinks about it for a few seconds, before caving in, 'You're right.'

Others start to join us and I can see mom and Theo dancing in the corner of my eye.

That is something I want to take a picture of.

'I'm glad you two found each other.' Leon says as he allows me to quickly take a picture of my mother smiling with the man she loves. 'I always knew you would be good for him.'

I think back to the first time he hinted at something. It seems like he said that just yesterday, but it has been a long time ago.

'You were our number one supporter.' I joke even though it's probably true. 'I don't know if that's true, Brandon was kind of on it too.'

I shake my head while laughing and let him spin me around again.

'Partner switch!' Abuela shouts as she quickly takes my place in Leon's arms, allowing me space to find another partner.

Rafael looks at me and just as I'm about to head over to him, my cousin Ivan takes his place.

'I will miss having you around, Leya.' He admits, making me frown.

Ivan and I never talked much, since he was always locked away in his room "studying" according to his mother.

We all know he wasn't really studying up there, everyone except tia Carla.

'You will?' I ask confused and he nods shyly. 'Without you around, Tina will be all up on my ass again.'

I laugh and he joins me before quickly spinning me around. 'So you're only going to miss me because I won't be distracting your sister again.'

He shakes his head and looks at his feet, trying to not mess up the steps he has been taught by his father.

I lift his chin and straighten my back, trying to make him do the same.

He nods and straightens his back, his dancing immediately getting better without him freaking out, 'I will also just miss you because you won't be here anymore, Leya.'

The emotions rise again and I can feel the tears prick behind my eyes.

'I'll miss you too, Ivan.' We dance until the song switches to the next and we have to switch partners again.

This time, I make sure to get to Rio before anyone else snatches either of us away from the other.

His arms wrap around my waist and he slowly guides me across the patio, not once taking his eyes off of me.

'Did you have fun?' I ask, wondering if my family has been too much for one night. He nods and smiles proudly as he pulls me closer, 'You're abuela is an amazing dance partner.'

We dance for a while until I start to feel tired again.

It's getting late and some people already said their goodbyes, but I don't want to leave just yet.

Rio pulls me against his chest and kisses my cheek, 'My sixth sense is kicking in.'

I tilt my head to look at him and feel the world spin for a second, 'What?'

'You're tired so I think we should call it a night.'

I promised him I would tell him when I'm tired and I'm tired, so I nod despite not wanting to go just yet.

'Lets go.' I whisper against his chest as he leads the way to the others.

I can hear him talking, I can see his lips moving, but everything sounds muffled in my ears.

I didn't realize I was this tired until I feel his hand on mine as he leads me back to our house.

He stops in the middle of the road and lifts me off the ground all bridal style, before carrying me back to the house.

If I wasn't this exhausted, I would've told him to let me walk back to the house.

But this is a fight I won't win. And for once, I want him to take care of me. As selfish as that may sound.

He lowers me back to my feet as soon as we get inside the house, my legs feeling weak because of the exhaustion.

I should've taken a nap earlier, maybe then I would've lasted a little longer tonight.

Rio kneels down, making me tilt my head to keep myself from falling on top of him.

And once again, the sight of him kneeling in front of me drives me insane.

'Lift your foot, Valentina.' I frown until I feel his warm hands on my bare legs, and slowly lift my leg up onto his knee.

He unwraps my shoe, which was hurting a lot apparently because as soon as the shoe's off, it feels like I'm freed from something weighing me down.

'Now the other one.' He says as he places my foot on the floor and reaches for my other leg.

I'm moving, but it feels like I'm not doing anything at the same time. He slips off my other shoe and places them by the door, before quickly taking off his own and lifting me back up again.

I let him carry me up the stairs and into the bedroom, where he places me on the bed and heads to the walk-in closet.

He returns with one of his shirts and some shorts, before helping me out of the dress and putting his shirt on me.

It's almost as long as the dress, making me smile as I take in the scent. His scent.

'Get some rest.' He whispers as he quickly changes himself and climbs down next to me. 'Thank you for taking care of me, Rio.'

'I'll always take care of you, Valentina.' I nudge closer to him and rest my head on his chest as I slowly doze off to sleep.

The next morning, I try to stay in bed as long as possible, dreading what needs to be done.

Rafael is standing in the bathroom, brushing his teeth, and looks at me through the mirror as I sit up in the bed.

'Good morning.' I stretch out and can't help but yawn as I let my muscles tense and relax after a few seconds. 'What time is it?'

'You can take as long as you need.' He replies as he quickly rinses his mouth and washes his face.

I shake my head and feel the dread build up by the second, 'We agreed on leaving at a certain time.'

'It's nine.' He says as he heads over to the bed and takes my hand to his lips, 'But there's no need to rush.'

Nine... That means- Shit.

I climb out of bed and run into the bathroom, almost tripping over my own feet. 'Valentina...'

'Why didn't you wake me up earlier?!' I brush my teeth and look at him through the mirror, watching him as he watches me. 'You needed some extra hours of sleep.'

'I wanted to-' 'Like I said, there's no need to rush. We have enough time.' He says as he heads to the closet to grab his clothes.

I roll my eyes and quickly finish off my routine, before rushing into the closet as well.

After getting dressed and making sure I look decent enough instead of a big mess, I head down the stairs to grab something to eat.

Celine made me one of those yogurt bowls with a note saying that she'll meet us in Italy since she wants to go to Paris first.

I quickly force the bowl down my throat and run to my mom's place.

The closer I get, the more I want to sink through the ground.

But as soon as I'm heading for her door, I stop moving.

I can't do this... Maybe we should stay? Maybe it's best if I-

The door opens and my heart starts to race.

'You're leaving, right?' She asks as she opens the door and steps outside.

I nod and watch as she reaches for my hand. I eagerly take her hand in mine and suddenly feel sadder than I should.

'Don't cry, mi amor.' She says, lifting her other hand towards my face to stroke her thumb up and down my cheek, 'I'll be here when you return.'

Dear god, watch over her and protect her until I return. It's all I ask... Please?

'Promise me you'll be safe?' She asks as she gently squeezes my hand. I nod and try to keep in the tears that are threatening to escape again. 'I'll do my best, I promise.'

'And come by as soon as you're about to give birth- or call me when you can't make it, I want to be there.' I don't know if it's a smart idea for her to travel again, but I'll for sure think about it.

I nod and lean into her touch, savoring this moment while it lasts.

'I don't want to go.' A sorrowful smile forms on my mother's face and I almost break down in front of her. 'I know, mi amor. But you need to keep going. You need to keep living.'

My mind goes back to the conversation I had with Veah just a few hours ago, and I can't help but smile as I wrap my arms around her and hug her tightly.

'Te quiero, mi amor. I always will, okay?' I nod and hold her a little longer, before leaning back to look at her face.

'Te amo and I want you to text me if anything happens, okay?' She nods with a smile on her face and looks at something behind me.

I can hear someone breathing heavily and slowly turn around. Veah looks exhausted and slowly takes the final steps toward us.

'Fuck, I need to work out more.' She exclaims as she tries to catch her breath.

I bet she ran all the way here.

'You're such an idiot.' I joke, making mom chuckle softly.

She pulls Veah into her arms and hugs her tightly, 'Take care of yourself, okay? I love you so much and I'm always a phone call away.' For now...

'That goes for the both of you, okay?' She asks, looking at me with a serious look that makes me want to hug her again.

And just like that, as if she can read my mind, she pulls me in for a hug as well, wrapping her arms around both Veah and me.

'Everything will be okay.' She mumbles, suddenly sounding emotional herself, 'I'll miss you two so much.'

'We'll miss you too.' I fight the tears in my eyes and feel her grip loosen on us, my heart begging me to pull her even closer.

'You two should go, you might miss your ride.' We follow her gaze to the person waiting at the gate.

A sharp pain shoots through my heart when I see Leon at the gate, and I take a shaky breath.

'I love you.' Veah says as she gives my mom another quick hug before she heads over to Leon.

'I love you too Veah, and Leon!' He looks at my mother with a warm smile, 'Take care of her okay? And don't forget to watch yourself too!'

'I will.' They move to the car that's probably waiting around the corner, leaving me with something I don't want to do.

'She always needs someone to make sure she's taken care of.' She jokes, pulling me back into her arms, 'Don't be sad, okay? I'm not going anywhere.'

I nod and hug her back for one last time, wondering since when I started to become a person who hugs every fucking second.

It just feels right in moments like these, but still.

'I want weekly updates on what's going on, only if possible, and keep me updated on my grandchildren, okay?' I nod and blink away the tears as I freeze in her arms.

I want to stay like this forever.

'Now go, before they leave you here.'

'No me importa.' I mumble against her arms. 'Cataleya-' 'Let them, I don't care.'

She leans back and looks at my face. 'You'll be fine. Everything will be okay, I promise.'

I nod and take a step back, forcing myself to stay strong for just a little more.

'I love you.'

She smiles and I can tell she's getting emotional too, 'I love you too.'

It takes every ounce of strength I have to turn around and walk away from her, but I notice Rio waiting at the gates.

'I'll take care of her.' He says, making my mom chuckle. 'I expected nothing less.'

Rio smiles at my mom and pulls me against his chest, 'Don't forget to take care of yourself too, Rafael.'

I turn back to look at my mom and notice a tear escape her eyes.

'I won't. I promise.' He chimes as he leads me towards the car waiting around the corner.

The twins are seated in their chairs and I stare at Veah for a second.

She is on the verge of tears and wraps her arms around me as I enter the car, followed by Rio who drops down next to Leon who's behind the wheel.

'We can extend our stay, if you want.' Rio says, looking at me through the rearview mirror.

I shake my head and blink away the tears, before giving him a weak smile. 'We need to go now.'

And with those words leaving my mouth, Leon starts the car and drives away from the woman I love most in this world.

----

A/N: LADIES, GENTLEMEN, AND EVERYTHING INBETWEEN, this was the last full chapter of Crisis of War. It's not very eventfull but I liked the way it ended and I hope you guys like it too.

I wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas! I hope you guys will celebrate it with friends and family, or just skip the entire holiday if you'd like, but I just wanted you guys to know that you mean the world to me and I'm so thankful for every single one of you.

Pls be nice about the ending, it would be an amazing birthday present :)

I love you guys so much and I hope you enjoyed this chapter, I'm on the verge of tears and I have been the entire time I was writing this, so please don't forget to vote and comment on what you liked the most!

I hope you have a wonderful day/night my loves <3