Chapter 77: A Memorable Marriage
The Laurent house's ballroom was filled with golden light, with all of the chandeliers gleaming like the stars overhead. As everyone took their seats and began talking eagerly, you could really taste the excitement in the air. It had almost been prepared for the event.
On her way out, Sophia stopped by the restroom and was startled to see that she was wearing a bridal gown. It was a stunning design; delicate lace began at her shoulders and the cloth rose up to wrap her torso before flowing down into a train that was almost royal. As if she were from another planet, there was a little sheen in the fabric.
"You look beautiful." Grace's voice, with a tear on the corner of her eye, emerged from behind her.
Sophia made a clumsy chuckle. "It's so unbelievable that it's actually happening."
"You deserve this happiness," her friends reassured her. "Alexander will be ready by the time you get there."
A tap on the door greeted Eleanor when she arrived. The royal lady's expression was remarkably kind when she arrived. She brought out a little velvet package.
Eleanor said, "This was Alexander's grandmother's," and took out a stunning diamond bracelet from the box. As she said again, "It should be worn by the mother who really loves my kid."
Sophia felt emotion well up in her chest. Taking the bracelet and putting it on her wrist, her hands shook. Dear Eleanor, thank you. For me, this is very crucial.
Eleanor nodded, her warm eyes. “ Hello Sophia, here you are in the family.
As the wedding planner looked in, Sophia took a deep breath to regain her composure. "The moment has come."
Sophia took a last glance in the mirror before turning and moving into the beginning of eternity.
The music increased in volume as the beautiful doors opened. After a moment of silence, the crowd erupted in astonishment as Sophia and her father stepped forward. After all the hard years of being apart, she knew they had found peace as he walked her down the aisle.
She looked up at Alexander.
He was really beautiful as he stood at the altar wearing a tight black tuxedo. Unfiltered desire filled his ordinarily serene face, and he never took his eyes off her.
Every step she took brought to mind their tumultuous journey,the love, the redemption, the pull that had brought them here, the pain, the heartbreak, and the betrayals.
She reached him and he took her hand. "You look gorgeous," he said.
Sophia smiled and her heart thumped as she clutched his hand.
They all couldn't hear the officiant's words when they began. Their eyes were a silent pledge of devotion and affection.
Alexander's voice sounded solid and resolute throughout the vows.
When I met you, Sophia, my whole world changed. You have been both my greatest joy and my toughest job. I promise that I will never let uncertainty divide us, that I will always be at your side, that I will love you unconditionally, and that I will keep you safe.
Her eyes were watering as she responded. "Alexander, you've tested me, broken me, and turned me around. You have always been the focal point of my heart, no matter what. I promise to cherish you, have faith in you, and build a compassionate, loving life with you.
When the officiant stated, "You may now kiss the bride," she started crying.
Time did not pass for Alexander. In a kiss so passionate and promising that the whole audience applauded, he held her face and pushed his lips to hers.
A grandiose party took place. A sumptuous courtyard opens out before them, with fairy lights twinkling above as guests mingled and danced. The evening's enchantment was reflected in the golden illumination of a big fountain in the center.
Sophia and Alexander had their first dance together as husband and wife, moving as if the world didn't exist.
"Mrs. Blackwood, you're mine now," he said softly in her ear.
She chuckled a bit. "I believe I have been yours forever."
As the night wore on, the atmosphere was one of laughing and excitement.
That being said, not everyone was throwing a party.
From the shadows, a pair of eyes watched them intently. A little item was put onto the current table, and a person hovered there, sneering.
It was sent to Sophia.
Last word of warning.
With laughter and music resonating throughout the gathering, it went on. Eleanor stood up and grabbed a spoon to tap her glass to draw attention.
Eyeing the glowing bride, Eleanor added, "First, let me express how sincerely delighted I am to welcome Sophia into our family." " My child has struggled, matured, and finally understood what unconditional love is. Sophia, you have been his finest teacher.
In silent gratitude, Alexander tightened his grip on Sophia's hand and grinned a bit.
Next, Eleanor turned to face Sophia. "I see your strength, your unwavering resolve, and most importantly, your love for my son." I hope this marriage is filled solely with love, passion, and strength.
The audience erupted in applause as Alexander raised his glass to the ceiling. With passion and strength in his voice, he exclaimed, "To my wife." "The woman who made my life brighter."
Blushing, Sophia clinked her glass on his before they each took a drink.
And the evening continued with flair and elegance. Visitors enjoyed a lavish dinner, and there was never a dull moment on the dance floor. Despite the joy, however, there was a lingering feeling that someone was watching.
Sophia apologizes as she makes her way from reception to the dimly lit hallway and then moves aside to change. With a satisfied grin, she runs her fingertips over the beautiful lace of her bridal gown.
Then she noticed.
Over the wedding gifts, a little envelope with the handwritten address below was placed:
For Mrs Blackwood.
Her gut clenched as she took a moment to carefully raise it. She unfolded the letter and opened it.
Hello Sophia
It seems like you've won. You think love is going to protect you. However, you should be more conscious by now. People like you don't belong in happy endings.
Keep yourself safe.
With her cheeks bleeding, she glanced at the bottom signature.
Nothing was signed on it.
But that was a clear message.
She swallowed hard, then glanced around. With the music and laughter going on as if nothing had changed, the reception was still going strong. But she knew deep down that this was not the end.
In the shadows, there was someone hiding.
She also needed to be reminded that happily-ever-afters might be instantly wrecked.