The wedding day finally arrived faster than Rose expected. After countless nights of persuasion, begging, and long talks, her grandmother finally gave in. She agreed to the marriage, not because she trusted Lucas, but because she trusted Rose’s decision. Rose felt guilty for dragging her grandmother into all this, yet relieved that she had her blessing. Lucas had his own battle. He confronted his father earlier that morning, voice sharp and controlled as he told him he knew everything, every plan, every manipulation, every attempt to control his life. His father stood speechless, finally realizing Lucas was no longer the boy he could push around. By noon, everything was set. Rose stood dressed beautifully, more beautiful than she had ever looked in her entire life. Her makeup was soft.

