Deviating from the original plot

3

“I am,” she whispered, her smile steady and full of love. “I’m marrying someone I love, and I know she’ll take care of me… just like I’ll take care of her.”

Her father gave a playful wink, finally easing into a proud smile. “Then go, my daughter. Make your happiness official. I’ll be right here, cheering for you.”

“Of course,” Victoria replied, her own smile soft and steady.

He sniffled once, then waved a hand dismissively. “And just so you know… I never actually cried. An eyelash got stuck in my eye, that’s all.”

Victoria chuckled, the knot of tension in her chest easing. She leaned forward to press a gentle kiss to her father’s cheek. “Alright, Father. Alright.”

Just then, a maid stepped into the room. “My Lady, the officiant has arrived.”

Victoria straightened her posture, smoothing her gown one last time. Her heart fluttered with anticipation.

The garden was bathed in soft spring sunlight, the lake glimmering like a mirror beside them. Rows of guests, friends, and family waited quietly.

A small, cheerful figure ran ahead—Victoria’s youngest cousin, Claire, just twelve, dressed in a pale pink dress, carrying a small basket of petals. She sprinkled them along the aisle with giggles, the guests cooing at the sight.

Victoria appeared first, her arm linked with her father’s. Her gown trailed gracefully behind her. Her heart pounded—not with fear, but with excitement.

Her father squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Shall we?” he whispered, his eyes glistening. Victoria nodded, taking the first steps down the aisle. Then followed Celeste, radiant in her own gown, eyes fixed on Victoria. By her side stood her half-brother, Rhyse, ready to escort her down the aisle. Her gaze never left Victoria, their eyes meeting across the flower-strewn path, hearts silently echoing one another. Whispers of admiration and love flowed from the guests, but the two women saw nothing but each other.

The officiant, standing beneath a canopy of ribbons and flowers, cleared their throat gently. “We are gathered here today to witness these two lovely people, joined not only in love but in the promise of a lifetime together…”

The ceremony flowed with soft music playing in the background. Vows were exchanged, heartfelt and intimate, voices trembling slightly with emotion.

When it came time for the rings, Victoria held Celeste’s hands firmly, gazing into her eyes. “With this, I give you my heart, my loyalty, and my forever,” she whispered, slipping the ring onto Celeste’s finger.

Celeste returned the gesture with equal sincerity, her voice steady despite the tears glimmering in her eyes. “And I give you mine, my love, and my life.”

Finally, the officiant pronounced them married, and Victoria and Celeste leaned in for a tender, lingering kiss, sealing their vows. The crowd erupted in applause and joyful cheers.

The party after the wedding was a lively celebration, though far more relaxed than the ceremony itself. Lanterns glimmered along the gardens, casting a warm, golden glow over long tables adorned with flowers, ribbons, and delicate crystalware. Soft music floated through the air, blending with laughter and the clinking of glasses.

Evelyn had staked out a spot nearby, watching them with a teasing grin that couldn’t hide her genuine happiness for their union.

“You two really do look happy together,” she remarked, eyes sparkling as she observed them. Victoria and Celeste exchanged a glance, sharing a quiet smile.

“We are happy… but I think we could use a little time alone,” Victoria said.

“Evelyn, you’ll be running things as chief bridesmaid until we return,” Celeste added with a mischievous smirk, leaning close.