A knock disrupted my thoughts, and the massive wooden door swung open to reveal my grandfather, dressed impeccably. “It’s time,” he announced.
I inhaled deeply, willing a facade of calm and happiness over my face. Turning to him, I stretched my lips into the broadest smile I could muster, even though every fiber of my being screamed that I should be anywhere else.
My heart felt as if it was deep in that tank with Ky’rn.
“You look radiant, my dear,” he said, his eyes scanning me. “Your parents, and your grandmother, they would be so proud.”
The mere mention of my parents brought a sting to my eyes. “I miss them,” I whispered, my voice breaking, thinking of the family I’d lost.
He stepped closer, his weathered hand touching my cheek. “I miss them too. Every single day.” His face softened, a rare sight. “But know that they are smiling down at you right now.”
He then offered his arm, and I took it. Every step felt like a march toward my own personal guillotine.
As we approached the ornate garden doors leading to the venue, he leaned closer. “Once this is over, I can finally retire,” he murmured, the weight of his years evident in his voice. “And then, it’ll be your turn to make new heirs and continue our legacy.”
“Let’s just get through today first,” I quipped, trying to keep my voice steady, “before thinking about babies.”
The mention of children, of heirs, seemed so absurd at the moment.
He chuckled, giving my hand an affectionate pat.
We paused before the garden doors, the sounds of the ceremony beyond faintly reaching us. “I’m proud of you, Isla. Remember to do your part. Bring honor to our family.”
The garden doors swung open, revealing the vast assembly awaiting my entrance.
The moment I set foot outside, the live orchestra transitioned seamlessly into the classic wedding march. Every note resonated with years of tradition, echoing with the weight of the ceremony.
The garden itself was breathtaking. A wide expanse of meticulously manicured lawns spread out, with delicate flowers of every hue blooming in carefully designed patterns. The aroma was a gentle blend of roses, jasmine, and lilies. Ethereal fairy lights floated above, illuminating the setting with a soft golden hue. In the middle of the garden, a crystal platform rose slightly off the ground. It was upon this platform that the ceremony would take place.
Beyond the garden, the vast expanse of the ocean stretched, its waves shimmering under the gentle caress of the setting sun. The backdrop of the cerulean waters only added to the enchantment of the setting. Elegant white chairs with sapphire-colored cushions were lined neatly for the guests. Each chair had a small holographic projector, which I knew would display close-ups of the ceremony for each guest.
As I walked, my grandfather’s arm providing support, I couldn’t help but glance at the many faces that filled those seats. Strangers, diplomats, business moguls—their presence was a testimony to the importance of this union.
Standing on the crystal platform was Roman. With chiseled features, a strong jawline, and bright blue eyes, he was undeniably attractive. His grin was infectious, reaching all the way to his eyes, making him appear genuine and warm.
If my heart hadn’t been irrevocably lost to Ky’rn, maybe Roman could’ve been a possibility.
The marriage officiant, poised and confident, looked striking in her violet pantsuit. The sapphire vest and bowtie added a touch of elegance to her attire. Her blonde hair was slicked back into a pristine bun, and her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she flashed me a welcoming smile.
Ahead on my left stood Dr. Violet, her sapphire gown flowing and shimmering with every movement, the hue complementing her name perfectly. As I approached the platform, she reached out gracefully, taking my bouquet with a reassuring smile.
The officiant cleared her throat, the soft sound magnified through the garden’s natural acoustics. “Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here today to witness the union of two illustrious families. Two legacies coming together in the hopes of a brighter, united future.”
Throughout the ceremony, the officiant emphasized unity and legacy. We recited the generic vows—promises of honor, unity, and commitment. Every word I spoke, every promise I made, felt empty. The future was being decided for me, but the thoughts of Ky’rn and the life I truly desired haunted me.
As the officiant declared, “You may now exchange the rings and seal this union,” my gaze involuntarily drifted toward the vast ocean, wondering where Ky’rn might be.
Roman’s fingers were cool and firm as they clamped around my wrist, and the proximity of his lips by my ear made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
“Remember how I told you not to blindly trust people, especially me?” My heart raced in tandem with his whispered words, their intent clear as day.
Startled, I jerked back slightly, only to meet his smug expression. He drew out a ring from within the depths of his jacket. As it slid onto my ring finger, his eyes bore into mine—a challenge, a dare.
The moment was suddenly disrupted.
The ground beneath us trembled, a low rumbling escalating into a deafening roar. It felt as though the very heart of the earth was in revolt. The serene garden, moments ago a haven of beauty and sophistication, descended into chaos. The fairy lights swayed violently, and the magnificent blooms were uprooted in the quake. Guests screamed, their terrified cries echoing in the air as they scrambled in panic, their finery forgotten.
Roman’s grip on my hand never wavered as he swiftly pulled me away from the chaos, navigating through the mayhem with an unsettling calm.
