Chapter 14 - THE LAST SIGNATURE
One year after our courthouse wedding, Antonio placed another document in front of me.
I stared.
“What's this?”
He smiled faintly.
“A new agreement.”
My stomach tightened.
He noticed.
Then shook his head.
“Not another marriage contract.”
I opened the folder.
Inside was a legal document releasing me from any remaining financial obligations connected to my father's debt.
The debt had been resolved through lawful settlements and asset recovery.
My sister's education fund was protected.
And I was free to leave the marriage without losing anything.
I stared.
Then looked at Antonio.
“You're letting me go?”
His expression softened.
“I should never have made you feel trapped.”
My eyes filled.
He continued.
“You deserve a marriage you choose.”
Silence.
I looked at the papers.
Then at him.
“Do you want me to leave?”
His jaw tightened.
“No.”
A pause.
“More than anything, I want you to stay.”
I swallowed.
“Then why give me this?”
He looked into my eyes.
“Because love isn't ownership.”
My eyes filled.
For a long moment, I couldn't speak.
Then I closed the folder.
Stood.
Walked toward him.
And kissed him.
When I pulled away, I whispered:
“Then ask me properly.”
Antonio smiled.
“Sophia Russo.”
My heart raced.
“Will you stay married to me?”
May you like
I laughed through tears.
“Yes.”
