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Chapter 46 - CHAPTER 46: WEDDING PLANS AND SHADOWS

ADRIAN'S POV

The sun dipped low over V City, casting a warm glow across the skyline. Yet inside the Goodwill penthouse, the atmosphere was electric—calculated, controlled, and yet underlined with excitement.

Isaac and I were seated with a large map of the city spread across the table, each corner marked with potential locations for the wedding ceremony and reception. Augustina leaned over, pointing at venues with precision.

"This one has the perfect view of the lake," she said. "The sunset will be phenomenal for photographs, and the security is top-notch."

I nodded, fingers tapping lightly on the table. "Good. That's one checkpoint done. Now for the celebrations and decorations… I want nothing but elegance. Every detail perfect."

Augustina smirked. "I already know. You've become obsessive over her, Adrian. It's cute."

I lifted an eyebrow. "Cute? She's my woman, Augustina. Everything surrounding this day will be flawless because she deserves it."

Oscar appeared then, tablet in hand. "Sir, all your partners and their wives have confirmed—they'll be arriving in V City within the week. They want to stay until the wedding."

I allowed myself a small grin. "Excellent. That makes planning much easier. Kiss will have her inner circle for support."

---

KISS'S POV

I stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, holding a cup of coffee, while Adrian discussed the finer points with his family. Their meticulous planning was impressive, almost intimidating—but with Adrian at my side, it felt manageable.

"I'm going to need your input on decorations," Augustina said suddenly, approaching me with a grin. "I want this to be your vision as much as his."

I laughed softly, taking the folder she handed me. "I just want it elegant, simple… but unforgettable."

She raised an eyebrow. "Unforgettable? Honey, with Adrian involved, everything about this day is unforgettable."

I couldn't help but smile. He glanced at me from across the room, eyes locking with mine, sharp and possessive. My chest tightened. "Don't get used to staring like that," I whispered to myself, though he was undoubtedly aware of it.

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ADRIAN'S POV

As the planning session continued, my mind kept drifting to the shadows—Chris and Ashley. I had sensed their plotting long before today. Chris's obsession, Ashley's desperation. Both were capable of dangerous moves.

I motioned to Oscar. "Keep tabs on them. Any unusual activity, I want a report immediately."

Oscar nodded. "Yes, sir."

I turned my attention back to the room where Kiss was laughing with Augustina and the other wives. Her energy… her presence… it anchored me. I wanted to protect her from everything, yet I knew I couldn't shield her from everything. Not Chris. Not Ashley. Not the world that watched and waited for weaknesses.

My fingers clenched. "No one touches her. Not a single soul."

Augustina smirked from across the room. "She's already yours, Adrian. Relax."

I shook my head, not entirely at ease. "Not yet. Until the wedding… I'm not letting anything happen. I'll handle it."

---

KISS'S POV

The wives had taken me under their wing, showing me fabrics, shoes, and even subtle tricks for social maneuvering. I was learning quickly, smiling at the chaos and laughter around me.

"I swear, if I didn't know better, I'd think you two have been planning this for years," one of the wives said, handing me a lace sample.

I smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. "I think it's just… fate, maybe. Or Adrian's obsession."

Just then, my phone buzzed. I frowned at the unknown number, hesitating.

UNKNOWN NUMBER: You really think she's safe? Think again.

My pulse spiked. I recognized the style—it was Ashley.

I froze. Adrian, sensing it, appeared immediately behind me. "What is it?"

I handed him the phone, keeping my voice calm. "Ashley. She's up to something."

His jaw tightened. "Figures. Keep your distance. I'll handle her."

I nodded, though a flutter of unease settled in my stomach. Chris had also been lurking around, subtle but persistent. Something was coming. I could feel it.

---

ADRIAN'S POV

I moved closer to her, lowering my voice. "Stay calm. I'll deal with them."

Her eyes met mine, fierce and unwavering. "Adrian, I can handle myself. But don't let them think you're ignoring me."

"I'm not," I said firmly. "You're mine. And anyone who tries… well, they'll regret it."

She smirked faintly. "Good. I like when you say that."

I shook my head, half in amusement, half in tension. "You're lucky you're beautiful."

She laughed softly, brushing past me toward Augustina and the others. "And you're lucky you love me."

I allowed a small smile, letting the brief peace settle over me. For now.

---

KISS'S POV

Later that evening, as we walked through V City's central district, discussing wedding specifics, I noticed the tension in Adrian's steps. He was constantly scanning, subtle movements that screamed alertness.

"Relax," I whispered, brushing my hand along his arm. "We have months. Let's enjoy it."

He stopped, eyes locking on mine, sharp and serious. "No. I don't want anyone plotting, scheming… trying to touch what's mine."

I smiled softly. "Then you're going to have to trust me—and yourself—enough to enjoy these moments. This is supposed to be fun too."

He exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "I know. I just… I can't stand the thought of them trying anything. Chris… Ashley… they won't stop unless I put them in their place."

I squeezed his arm. "Then promise me… you won't let them ruin these moments. We have enough time to handle them, but don't let it take away our happiness."

He softened slightly, brushing a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "You're right. I'll try… but I can't promise I won't scowl at them whenever I see them."

I laughed softly, leaning into him. "Then I'll make sure I'm right there with you."

---

ADRIAN'S POV

The night settled in, and the city glowed beneath us. I knew the real challenge was only beginning. Chris's obsession, Ashley's schemes—they were a storm approaching.

But Kiss… my Kiss… was calm, radiant, and ready to face whatever came.

And that was all the motivation I needed. I would protect her, love her, and make sure nothing and no one could take her from me—not even the shadows that lurked in the corners.

For months, for years, for the rest of our lives… she was mine.

And the wedding in two months? It would be the declaration the world couldn't ignore.

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