Chapter 10 - The Real Wedding
One year to the day after the disaster at St. Jude’s Church.
The sun shone brightly over the lush green rolling hills of the Hudson Valley. A gentle breeze rustled through the apple orchards, carrying the sweet scent of blossoms and fresh grass.
At the edge of a private estate overlooking the sparkling Hudson River, a hundred close friends, colleagues, and loved ones were seated on white chairs arranged on the lawn.
There were no media cameras. No uninvited guests. No drama.
Laura stood near the altar as my matron of honor, wearing a beautiful dusty-rose gown. My father stood beside me, wearing a crisp black tuxedo, a proud, tearful smile on his face as he walked me down the outdoor aisle lined with white peony petals.
I wore a breathtaking, custom ivory silk gown designed by a top Parisian couturier—a dress that belonged entirely to me, with a sweeping train and a veil that shimmered like liquid sunlight.
And waiting at the end of the aisle stood Sebastian.
He looked extraordinarily handsome in a midnight-blue tuxedo, his silver hair neatly styled, his eyes locked onto mine with a love so fierce and overwhelming that my heart skipped a beat with every step I took toward him.
When my father placed my hand into Sebastian’s, he looked at Sebastian and whispered, “Thank you for taking care of my daughter.”
“Always, sir,” Sebastian replied respectfully.
We stood together under an arch of white roses and green ivy, holding hands, looking directly into each other’s eyes.
Father Thomas—who had requested to officiate today to "do it right this time"—smiled warmly at the crowd.
“Dearly beloved,” Father Thomas began, his voice clear and joy-filled. “We are gathered here today to celebrate a love that was forged in trial, proven in loyalty, and sealed in true devotion.”
When it came time for the vows, Sebastian didn't read from a card. He took both of my hands in his, looking straight into my soul.
“Victoria,” Sebastian said, his deep voice carrying across the quiet valley. “One year ago, I stood beside an altar and offered you a hand in the darkest moment of your life. I promised to be your shelter, your ally, and your champion. Today, I stand here not out of duty, but out of a love so deep that it fills every corner of my life. You are my equal, my heart, and my greatest treasure. I promise to love you, honor you, and stand by your side through every storm and every victory, for all the days of my life.”
Tears of pure, overwhelming happiness ran down my cheeks.
I smiled, my voice strong and clear as I looked up at my husband.
“Sebastian,” I said, squeezing his hands tightly. “You saved me when I thought my world was ending. You showed me what true love, real respect, and unwavering loyalty look like. You gave me a home when I felt homeless, and a future when I thought I had none. I love you with all my heart, and I choose you today, tomorrow, and for every year that follows.”
“By the power vested in me,” Father Thomas declared, beaming with delight, “I now pronounce you husband and wife—once again, and forever! You may kiss your bride!”
Sebastian pulled me into his arms, dipping me slightly as he pressed his lips to mine in a passionate, soaring kiss that brought the entire audience to their feet in thunderous, joyful applause.
The sun broke through the spring clouds, bathing us in warm, golden light.
As we walked back up the aisle together, hand in hand, surrounded by cheers, laughter, and showering white petals, I looked up at the man walking beside me—my husband, my best friend, my protector, and the love of my life.
May you like
The day that was meant to break me had instead crowned me.
And as Sebastian leaned down and whispered, “Ready for our happily ever after, Mrs. Sterling?”, I laughed, kissed his cheek, and said, “I’m already living it.”
