Chapter 6 - The Wedding at Central ParkSix months later, the autumn sun broke warmly over the manicured green lawns of a private estate overlooking Central Park.
The ten-acre property, surrounded by oak trees, blooming white chrysanthemums, and stone walls, sat bathed in golden afternoon light.
On the wide stone terrace, an elegant gathering of fifty close friends, foundation staff, and trusted associates sat around candlelit tables set up along the garden paths.
I stood near a white floral arch wearing an ivory lace gown that caught the sunlight like gold. My dark hair was styled in glossy waves, and my posture held the quiet sovereignty of a woman who had survived the storm and reclaimed her life.
Beside me stood Elias in a black tuxedo, looking handsome, proud, and happy.
Standing beside our floral arch were two small white cribs, where ten-month-old Lily and Mia sat wearing matching white lace dresses, happily clapping their tiny hands while holding silver rattles.
The minister smiled warmly, opening his book.
"Do you, Elias Vance, take Ava Miller to be your lawful wedded wife, to love, honor, and protect her and her daughters for all the days of your life?"
Elias looked deep into my eyes, his broad palm wrapping around my fingers. "I do," he swore softly, his deep voice ringing clearly across the quiet garden.
"And do you, Ava Miller, take Elias Vance to be your lawful wedded husband?"
"I do," I whispered, tears of joy spilling down my cheeks.
May you like
The guests erupted into applause that carried across the terrace. Elias pulled me into his arms, lifting me effortlessly into his embrace, kissing me deeply as our twin daughters cooed happily in their cribs.
Down on my left hand, the diamond ring caught the autumn sunlight, gleaming with an unbroken light that would last a lifetime.
