Chapter 586
On the way to the courthouse, Sofia and Richard argued in the car, escalating into a physical altercation. By the time they arrived, both looked disheveled. Richard had two scratch marks on his face and one on his neck.
Seeing them in such a state, Cliff felt embarrassed. "Mr. Casalini," he began, "do you want to change your mind?" Going to obtain a marriage license looking like that, the staff would undoubtedly ask many questions. In Fiorenza, marriage law emphasized freedom; however, Sofia and Richardโs appearance suggested anything but willingness. Instead, they seemed poised to cause trouble.
They had fought on their way to get married. Anyone would assume their marriage shouldn't happen.
Richard shot Sofia a furious glance, rubbing his burning neck, the pain intensified by the touch. Sofia had scratched him not only on his neck but also left two marks on his face. "Crazy woman," he hissed, "just wait. As soon as this is over, we're getting a divorce."
If not for the current circumstances, he would never marry Sofia.
Sofia crossed her arms. "Humph," she retorted, "as soon as it's over, we're getting a divorce. Anyone who doesn't is a fool."
Richard, seething with rage, didn't waste another word. He walked straight inside, Sofia quickly following.
Cliff watched them, doubting, "If they really get married, Sofia might bring even more trouble to Mr. Casalini."
The two stormed inside angrily. The courthouse bustled with new couples eagerly awaiting their weddings, their eyes full of anticipation, excitement, and happinessโa stark contrast to Sofia and Richard, who appeared ready to tear each other apart.
Cliff had made the arrangements beforehand. The couple went directly to the counter. The staff member, noticing their condition, was momentarily taken aback before composing themselves and saying, "This is the marriage counter. If you're here for a divorce, please go to the window next door."
Their appearance suggested a divorce, not a wedding. They certainly didn't look like a couple about to tie the knot.
Richard said through gritted teeth, "We're here to get married."
The staff member scrutinized them, noticing the bruises on Richard's face, the scratches on his neck, and their disheveled appearance. It was clear they'd had a fight.
The staff member coughed awkwardly. "You sure?"
Sofia grunted, "Yes, we are here to get married."
The staff member was speechless. Before they could respond, Sofia continued, "Excuse me, do I need an appointment for a divorce?"
The staff member stared at Sofia, wide-eyed. "Huh? Hey folks, this isn't the place for playing games." Arriving for a wedding looking like that was unusual enough; planning a divorce before even tying the knot was unheard of.
Sofia's eyes turned cold. "Who's playing games here? Do I look like it?"
The staff member said nothing.
Richard said, his voice dripping with impatient menace, "Hurry up, we've got things to do."
The staff member was dumbfounded. They glanced at Richard, then at Sofia, trying to discern who was being coerced. After several glances, they still couldn't tell; neither seemed easily manipulated.
The staff member confirmed, "Really here to get married?"