Chapter 10 - The True Royal Wedding
One year later.
The private island off the coast of Santa Barbara was bathed in the warm, golden light of the setting sun. The gentle sound of Pacific waves lapping against white sand provided a peaceful melody as two hundred close friends, genuine allies, and loved ones gathered for the wedding of the year.
There were no press reporters, no fake corporate sponsors, and no greedy socialites.
I stood inside the beach pavilion, looking at my reflection in the full-length mirror.
My dress was a breathtaking creation of silk and pearl embroidery, flowing gently around my ankles. My dark hair was pinned back with delicate white orchids. But the most beautiful thing in the mirror was my smile—bright, radiant, and completely free of worry.
Eleanor Vance walked in, wearing a gorgeous navy silk dress, holding a bouquet of white peonies.
"You look breathtaking, Victoria," Eleanor said, tears shining in her eyes. "And I checked the county registry myself—the marriage certificate is already signed, sealed, and legally locked."
I laughed softly, hugging my dear friend. "Thank you for everything, Eleanor."
As the violin ensemble began playing a gentle, romantic melody, the doors of the pavilion opened.
I walked down the white wooden aisle laid across the sand.
Standing at the altar under an arch of white roses and eucalyptus was Alexander Hayes. He wore a crisp, dark tuxedo, his eyes fixed entirely on me, shining with a love so deep it warmed my entire soul.
When I reached his side, Alexander took both my hands in his, his fingers warm and steady.
"You are my strength, my heart, and my home, Victoria," Alexander said as we exchanged our vows under the golden sky. "I promise to honor you, protect you, and stand beside you through every storm and every victory, for the rest of my life."
"And I promise to love you, respect you, and build a life of truth and joy with you, Alexander," I replied, my voice strong and clear. "Forever."
"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the minister declared with a warm smile. "You may kiss the bride."
May you like
Alexander pulled me close, his arms wrapping tightly around my waist, and kissed me deeply as our guests erupted into joyful cheers, tossing white rose petals into the air.
As the sun set over the ocean, painting the sky in shades of gold, purple, and crimson, I rested my head against my husband’s chest. The dark shadows of the past were completely gone, replaced by a bright, beautiful future filled with love, dignity, and everlasting peace.
