Chapter Fourteen: Vows of the Unexpected
579 Words
The scent of roses and eucalyptus drifted through the lavish bridal suite of the Fairmont Chateau. Anna stood before a full-length mirror, draped in ivory lace and delicate beading. Her gown hugged her form like it had been sewn from whispers and dreams, with sheer sleeves and a plunging back that made her feel both powerful and soft.
Faith stood behind her, tears brimming in her eyes. “I always knew you’d be the kind of bride who doesn’t just walk down the aisle—but owns it.”
Anna smiled nervously. “It still feels surreal. I mean… months ago, I was serving tables and hiding from the world. Now I’m about to marry the father of my children.”
Faith dabbed at her eyes. “You were always destined for something greater, Anna. This—” she gestured to the view, the dress, the sparkling ring on Anna’s finger, “—this is what happens when you hold on. When you keep pushing even when life knocks you down.”
Outside the grand hall, guests were arriving. Celebrities. Investors. Family. But none of them mattered to Anna more than the two little boys currently sneaking extra cupcakes under the table with their tuxedos untucked.
Ethan and Aaron had insisted on walking her down the aisle, and Anna had melted at the thought.
She turned as the door opened. Her heart skipped.
Liam stood there—not yet in his tuxedo, but in dark slacks and a white shirt rolled up at the sleeves. His hair slightly tousled. His eyes filled with something raw.
“Isn’t it bad luck to see the bride before the ceremony?” Anna asked, half smiling.
“I don’t care,” he said. “I couldn’t wait. I needed to see you.”
Faith gave a knowing grin and slipped out.
Liam walked slowly toward Anna, then stopped a foot away. “I know we’re supposed to say our vows at the altar. But I want to say this now—just between us.”
Anna nodded.
“I remember that night—our first night—like a blur wrapped in heat and wine. I didn’t know who you were, Anna. I didn’t know your name. But I’ve thought about you every single day since. I searched without even realizing what I’d lost.”
His voice cracked. “Finding you again—finding them—was like getting a second chance at life. And I promise, whether we’re in a castle or a shoebox, I’ll never let go again.”
Tears rolled down Anna’s cheeks. “I never stopped loving the man from that night—even when I hated him. Even when I thought he left me behind. And now… now I get to love you for the rest of my life. Not because I have to. But because I want to.”
He leaned in and kissed her forehead gently.
“I’ll see you at the altar, my love,” he whispered.
And with that, he turned and left.
---
The ceremony was breathtaking.
The twins, dressed like miniature versions of Liam, carried rings and flower petals. Guests rose as Anna walked down the aisle, radiant, glowing, unforgettable.
Vows were exchanged under a dome of cascading lights and flower arches. The kiss that sealed their promises made the room erupt in cheers.
They weren’t just two people falling in love. They were a family choosing to never be lost again.
- Writer
