The music shifts into a slower tune, signaling to everyone that the bridal party has arrived. All attention turns to the back of the aisle.
“Here we go, Dan,” Felix says as my brothers and I take our places. “The rest of your life is about to begin.”
I wait with my hands behind my back, watching as the first bridesmaid, Zara, walks the aisle. She’s beautiful, sleek with midnight black hair and rosy cheeks.
There’s a quiet groan of frustration from beside me. I glance at Killian to see what the issue is. He’s staring at the sky, then down at his feet.
“What’s wrong?” I mutter.
His eyes flick to me, shocked, and he whispers, “Nothing. Why?”
“You’re acting strange.”
“I’m fine.”
Zara takes her place on the far side of the wedding arch.
“There’s our girl,” Felix mutters, erasing any concerns over Killian.
My world narrows on Harper as she walks the aisle. She’s smiling uncontrollably, happy for Dan and Ally, but I can also see in her eyes she’s excited for everything life is about to bring us.
I’m so mesmerized by Harper that I don’t notice the maid of honor walking the aisle. The next thing I know, the officiant is announcing for everyone to rise for the bride.
Ally steps into view, escorted by her uncle Daxton. Though I know she views Dad as her own father, it would be strange for him to give her away to Dan.
Ally makes a stunning bride. Her style is delicate and fairy-like, blending in perfectly with the garden wedding. She wears a strapless white gown and a baby-pink ribbon wraps around her waist. Her hair is in soft blond curls.
While all eyes are on Ally, my focus shifts to Dan. Moments ago, he was a nervous mess. Now, seeing his bride-to-be, there’s not a trace of nerves in him. The two are grinning at each other like they’re the only people in existence. His eyes are watering. Ally’s pace speeds up.
“Not too fast. Let me enjoy the view,” Dan calls.
Gentle laughter spreads among the guests. When Ally reaches the end of the aisle, her uncle passes her to Dan. My brother kisses the backs of her hands, then draws her in close and whispers something that must hold a special meaning to them.
“My queen of hearts. My person.”
“Myfavoriteperson,” she whispers back.
Everyone is capturing photos of Dan and Ally cutting their cake. They feed a slice to each other then laugh and kiss.
The night is getting late. Dinner has wrapped up. Speeches have been given. Soon, it will be time for Dan and Ally to have their first dance as husband and wife.
The reception is held beneath a large canopy tent beside the house. Fairy lights twinkle, making the night look magical. A live band performs romantic music.
While catering staff remove the cake to be served, Felix and I steal Harper away, slipping out of the canopy for a quiet minute. This is the first moment we’ve had alone with her today. She’s been occupied with bridesmaid duties.
We choose a spot to rest by the edge of the house, not far from the celebrations. I lean against the wall, wrapping Harper in my arms.
Something hard presses against my leg. I take a few seconds to register that even at this wedding, Harper has the dagger strapped to her thigh. I’m about to reassure her that no one is attacking us here. Though the bodyguards don’t follow us as closely since Ferguson’s death, they’re here on duty tonight, being discreet. Dad even hired security to keep reporters and paparazzi out of the wedding, along with anyone else not on the guest list. But I let the issue slide, remembering Harper said the dagger makes her feel powerful.
She sinks into me, closing her eyes. “I’m exhausted. Today has been amazing but long.”
I stroke her cheek. “We’ll get you to bed soon. Ally and Dan look like they’re enjoying themselves. It’s good to see.”
Felix is quiet beside us, sipping a drink and gazing at the stars.
“You okay?” Harper asks him.
“Just thinking.”
