The ceremony was short, simple, and brimming with warmth.
Ethan's vows weren't laced with flowery, over-the-top language, yet every word sank solid and deep into my heart.
"Hazel, I wasn't there to protect you in your past," he said. "But for your future I'll guard it with everything I have. With me, you will always be my number one. No second place, no ties."
My fingers wrapped tight around his hand, and my eyes burned with unshed tears.
"Ethan, from now on, we walk this road together," I said.
When we exchanged rings, thunderous applause erupted from the crowd below. I caught dozens of bright, smiling faces brimming with genuine well-wishes.
But I also spotted them in the far corner. My parents were supporting a nearly buckling Chloe and trying to sneak out the door unnoticed. Thei
