“Take good care of her,” said Richard, looking him in the eyes. Always, mister Richard. She is the love of my life, responded Alexander, squeezing Valentina’s hand. If she didn’t know the truth, she would have been moved. Now she felt disgust. Father Michael, who baptized her as a small child, began the ceremony. Valentina disconnected during the first parts, concentrated on organizing mentally what she would do.
We are gathered here to celebrate the union of Valentina and Alexander, said the father. Marriage is a sacred institution based on love, respect, and mutual sincerity. Sincerity? What a cruel joke. Alexander, do you accept Valentina as your legitimate wife? Do you promise to love her and respect her in joy and in sadness, in health and in sickness, in wealth and in poverty, all the days of your life? I accept, said Alexander, looking her deeply in the eyes.