Chapter 10 - The Real Wedding
One year later, the chapel on the Cross Estate was once again decorated with fresh white lilies and glowing candles.
There were no paparazzi, no fake socialites, and no grand corporate performances. The room was filled only with true friends, staff members who had become family, and loved ones who truly cared about us.
Rebecca stood at the altar as my maid of honor, smiling tearfully as the organ began to play a soft, romantic melody.
The chapel doors opened gently.
Carol walked down the aisle wearing a simple, elegant ivory silk gown that radiated pure grace. Holding her hand as the little flower girl was seven-year-old Ivy, wearing a white dress and a crown of fresh daisies.
When Carol reached the altar, I took her hand in mine. Her skin was warm, her eyes bright with unshakeable love, and her smile was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in my life.
"We stand here today," the pastor spoke, his voice filled with warmth, "to celebrate a love born from truth, proven through courage, and blessed with peace."
We exchanged our simple, heartfelt vows, promising to cherish, respect, and protect each other through every season of life.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the pastor declared. "You may kiss the bride."
I pulled Carol into my arms, kissing her deeply as our family and friends erupted into joyous, heartfelt applause.
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As we walked back down the aisle arm-in-arm, holding little Ivy between us, I looked out at the sunlit chapel and realized that true wealth was never about billions of dollars or high society titles.
True wealth was the warmth of a honest home, the laughter of a safe child, and a love that stood unshakable against the dark.
