Emma is a symbol of innocence amid the chaos, and the fact that she is here fills me with a profound sense of hope. Her father now works in Diego’s casino, providing for his family by making an honest living. The only reminder of his old life is a slight limp from where I shot him in the leg.
When I reach Diego, he takes both my hands in his, his touch warm and soothing. The officiant begins the ceremony, but I can only focus on Diego’s rich brown eyes, filled with love and promise.
“Diego,” I begin, my voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside me, threatening to spill over and have me sobbing like a baby. “When I was lost in darkness, you were my light. When I was broken, you helped me heal. You showed me that love and kindness can prevail, even in the darkest of times. Today, I vow to stand by your side, to love you with all my heart, and to face whatever challenges come our way. You are my rock, my anchor, and my hope. I love you.”
“Chloe, from the moment I found you, I knew my life would never be the same. You have shown me what true courage and resilience look like. You’re my inspiration, my partner, and my soulmate. Today, I vow to protect you, to cherish you, and to love you unconditionally. Together, we will build a future filled with happiness. You are my heart, my soul, and my everything. I love you.”
As we exchange rings, a wave of joy and gratitude washes over me. I couldn’t be happier than I am in this moment. The officiant pronounces us husband and wife, and Diego leans in and seals our vows with a tender, passionate kiss… and maybe a little bit of tongue.
The celebration that follows is a whirlwind of laughter, music, and dancing. The tables are covered with vibrant tablecloths and colorful flowers, creating a festival vibe, and the air is filled with the scent of delicious Mexican foods such as tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, and the drink flows freely, especially tequila.
Eaton and Shelby are the first to congratulate us, their faces beaming with happiness. Eaton claps Diego on the back. “You both deserve all the happiness in the world.”
Shelby hugs me tightly. “I’m so happy for you, Chloe. You and Diego are perfect together.”
I look for Serena, but I can’t see her. Felix is missing as well. She’s probably gone inside to rest. She was more than willing to give Diego and me her blessing when I asked her. She told me she was happy that something so wonderful could come out of so much darkness, and she’d be honored to call me her sister.
It’s only been a few months since Serena was rescued. I know how much time and strength it takes to heal, and along with her pregnancy, it’s a lot for her to deal with. But Diego and I will always be there for her.
The air is filled with the joyful rhythm and sounds of flamenco music. As we dance under the night sky, I catch glimpses of the four others who were with me at the start of my captivity, each of them finding their own moments of happiness and connection. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve all come and of the strength and resilience that brought us to this moment. In time, they’ll all tell their own stories.
Diego pulls me close as we dance, his arms wrapped protectively around me.
“I love you,” he whispers in my ear. “Thank you for choosing me, for loving me, and for giving me hope.”
I smile, my heart overflowing. “I love you, too. You’ve given me a new life. A new beginning. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”
As the evening draws to a close, we stand together, staring at the star-filled sky. The darkness that once consumed us has been replaced with light, love, and hope. Together, we will face whatever comes our way, knowing that our love will guide us.
In this moment, surrounded by friends, family, and the beauty of Diego’s garden, I am filled with a sense of peace and happiness, knowing I’m no longer sold. I’m found.
