Chapter 112
VANESSA
Mary placed the last rose on my hair, and I couldn’t help but smile, feeling a mixture of excitement and calm settle over me. It was such a simple gesture, yet it felt like the final touch to this momentous day. I caught Mary’s eye as she stepped back to admire her handiwork.
“Thank you,” I said softly. I was full of gratitude—for this moment, for my friends, for the way the universe had led me to Kyan. Mary leaned down and kissed my forehead, a sisterly gesture that made my heart swell.
“You look beautiful, Van,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “I can’t believe you’re getting married. And to a kind man who truly loves you.” Her eyes shimmered, and for a moment, I thought she might cry, which of course, made my own throat tighten.
Before I could get too em
