Chapter 43. The Wedding

Evelyn

Soft music drifted through the room like a lullaby. I stood before the mirror, my breath catching.

Today… was the wedding.

Jacob and I—after everything—we were finally becoming husband and wife. And even though what we had felt like a vow long before today… this moment held a different kind of magic. It shimmered in the air, heavy and sacred. The thought of walking down the aisle felt surreal. My eyes welled again. I hadn’t stopped crying all morning and I didn’t think I would anytime soon.

“Hey… Dad,” I whispered when he entered. He paused in the doorway, completely still—his gaze landed on me, and I watched it shift into something tender and glassy.

“God,” he breathed. “You look so beautiful, Princess.” He crossed the room and pulled me into his arms. We clung to each other, and the tears fell freely. I’d always imagined this day…but never had I ever thought that it’d feel like this. I couldn’t describe how I felt—it felt strange. I was