Chapter 268 268

Chapter 268 268
TARA

I looked at myself in the mirror. I saw a beautiful woman standing, wearing a gown that hugged her body like a second skin. It was a classic, elegant ivory re-embroidered lace drop waist corseted ballgown that featured a nine-foot train with a deep V-neck neckline and long sleeves. It was exactly a little girl’s dream that resembled a childhood fantasy.
Her makeup was light and simple. The rose gold and warm brown eyeshadow created a sparkling rose-tone eye look, making her eyes stand out. Her nude lipstick complemented the peachy blush that warmed up her cheeks. The romantic waves with soft flowing curls added volume to her caramel brown long wavy hair. She accessorized with classic diamond stud earrings to pair with the family heirloom diamond tiara.
I drew a deep breath as the elated sensation began to overwhelm me.
“Oh, no. No crying.”
“Mom.” I chuckled as I looked at my mother just entered the room. I turned to her and smiled. “You look stunning.” 
She looked so beautiful in her elegant dusty rose beaded sequin embroidered bodycon floor-length gown that matched her birdcage veiling feathery fascinator. Her makeup was light and her hair curled in large waves.
“Oh, my beautiful baby.” She blinked her teary eyes. 
“How do I look?”
She shook her head slowly, appreciating the gown and running her fingers along the silk tulle lace of my veil. “I’m speechless. You look breathtaking, and I can’t believe my daughter is getting married.”
I smiled. “I was a bride once.”
She rolled her eyes playfully. “You’re glowing today, and I’ve never seen you smile like this. I’m so happy for you, baby. And I’m so proud of you.” She lightly cupped my face. “I wish I could squeeze you into a hug and kiss you, but I don’t wanna ruin this beautiful makeup and masterpiece.”
“Do you like the gown?”
“Are you kidding me?” Her smile widened. “I just said masterpiece. Madden has excellent taste and talent. It’s beautiful.”
“Honey?” I heard Dad just knock on the door.
“I’m here, darling,” Mom said.
The door opened, and my father stepped in with wide eyes. “Oh, honey. You look stunning. You remind me of your mother when she walked down the aisle, nearly thirty-five years ago.”
“You two, Dad.” He was wearing a Royal Navy uniform and medals. “You looked handsome.”
He came closer and took my hand. “Finally, you’re getting married. If there’s something I can give you advice on, no matter how demanding the job will be, remember that your husband is waiting for you at home, or when you have children one day. They will always come first. Do you hear me?”
I nodded. “Yes, Dad.”
“One day, when you have children on your own, always spend valuable time with them. I know I might have failed you on that part. While you and Valentine were growing up, I wasn’t always there for both of you, and I’m sorry. I know your mom is very understanding because she knows how hard it is to be in my position, and one day, you will be in my seat. But don’t let them down. As much as this job is very important, so is family.”
“Thank you, Dad.” I squeezed his hand. “I may not be a perfect girl, but I am who I am today because of you.” I looked at him and Mom. “Thank you for everything.”
“Okay, enough of the drama.” Mom blinked up. “I don’t have the time to retouch. So, no crying.”
I chuckled.
The door slightly opened, and my brother’s head emerged. “Hey, sis. Are you ready?”
“This time?” I smiled. “Very much so. I’m excited.”
“Then it’s time. I’m going down now. You, two, Mom, Dad.”
I took a deep breath as I snatched my small and simple white bouquet, a mix of lisianthus, spray rose, peonies, ranunculus, and baby’s breath. “God, I’m nervous. Pray that I won’t trip.”
Twenty-five minutes later, our ride, the black classic Rolls-Royce marque,
arrived at the cathedral. The viewers gathered outside erupted in applause.
I learned that what happened last night was all over the news and the internet, and they were sending prayers for us. I still couldn’t believe that I was here, while not so long ago, I was fighting for my life deep underwater.
I didn’t think I would make it today, on my wedding day, if I didn’t fight to survive. It was horrific, terrifying, knowing I had a small chance of getting out there alive, but I never lost hope. I knew Mad, the guys, and everyone who cared about me would risk their lives to save me because that was what you do for the people you love.
I acknowledged the presence of guards outside, thanking them. After all, they kept us safe, like Sylvian, risking his life for me. Luckily, the surgery went well. He was recovering. Upon waking up this morning, I sent flowers and wished him a fast recovery.
“Oh, my God. Babe, I love the veil and the embroidered initials fit for a princess,” she said as she spread my train and veil behind me. “And you looked stunning. Not that I haven’t said it already. You look handsome, Your Majesty.”
“You look beautiful, Olive,” Dad said before looking at me. “Ready, honey?”
I smiled as I looked at Dad. “Yes, Dad. I’m so ready.”
The moment the music started, my heart began thumping so hard, not in nervousness or fear. This time, it just felt right. It was perfect.
Everything was perfect.
I breathed deeply to push back the tears of joy that began to well in my eyes.
Dad and I walked on the red carpet, entering the cathedral. I still wasn’t nervous anymore. In fact, I was excited to see the man that I was going to marry and spend the rest of my life with him.
The two-tier silk tulle lace 75-foot cathedral-length veil with the embroidered initials of Mad and I trailed behind me.