Chapter 9 - The Wedding in the Gardens
The spring wedding was an intimate, breathtaking affair held on the sprawling lawn of the Vance estate. There were no flashing tabloid cameras, no superficial socialites seeking favors, and no toxic whispers.
Instead, the garden was filled with close friends, trusted colleagues, and the bright, infectious laughter of Leo, who proudly served as the ring bearer carrying a velvet pillow with two gleaming platinum bands.
Maria wore a stunning, elegant ivory silk gown that radiated timeless grace. As she walked down the stone pathway on the arm of her younger brother—now finishing his university degree debt-free thanks to an educational grant established by the Vance Foundation—Arthur stood at the altar, watching her with a look of absolute, unconditional adoration.
When they exchanged their vows, the vows weren't about social status or financial contracts. They were promises of protection, honesty, and enduring love.
“I give you my heart, my home, and my future,” Arthur said, sliding the ring onto her finger.
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“And I give you my loyalty, my hand, and my soul,” Maria replied, her voice steady and full of unyielding joy.
When the minister pronounced them husband and wife, Arthur pulled her close, kissing her deeply as the gathered guests erupted into cheers and applause.
