Page 52 of Accidental Orc Daddy

"Oh, honey, you look breathtaking!" gushes Yvette, fastening the back with care.

I meet my reflection's gaze, seeing both the blushing bride and strong woman I've become. I'm ready for this next chapter with Mustaf.

My heart flutters thinking of the intimate vows we'll exchange, surrounded by our nearest and dearest. The ornate hall awaits, decorated lovingly thanks to months of work. And my darling Asher will make the most adorable ring bearer.

Taking a deep breath, I smooth my gown and nod resolutely. "Let's do this."

My stylists applaud excitedly. The limo pulls up outside, ready to take me to the venue where my destiny awaits. Where my family will officially become whole.

I blow kisses to my team in thanks, buoyed by their well-wishes. Then I'm gliding out the door, a blushing bride floating on a cloud of joy and anticipation. The next time I walk through that door, I'll be Mrs. Meiko Sato. This is really happening!

As the limo pulls away from the house, I take out my phone and call my best friend, Sandra. She picks up on the first ring.

"Meiko! Oh my gosh, today's the big day!" she squeals. "How are you feeling, bride-to-be?"

I laugh, buoyed by her infectious excitement. "I'm feeling amazing! Still can't believe this is really happening. I just got all dolled up by my glam squad and now I'm heading to the venue."

"You must look absolutely gorgeous right now," Sandra gushes. "I can’t wait to see you! And I bet Mustaf's jaw is going to drop when he sees you walking down that aisle."

"I hope so!" I say. "The dress is insane. It looks even better than when you and I found it."

I hear Sandra let out an exaggerated dreamy sigh. "You're living every girl's fantasy right now. Pampered like a princess on your way to marry your prince charming!"

The limo hits a bump in the road and I brace myself against the seat. "Whoa, easy there driver. Don't mess up the hair!" I joke.

Sandra laughs. "Well, look, I’m waiting at the venue and I’m already insisting everyone treat you like royalty today, you hear? You deserve all of this and more."

I smile, feeling like the luckiest woman alive. "I'll see you in a second. Love you!"

We hang up just as the limo pulls up to the spectacular wedding venue. It's time. Taking a deep breath, I gather up my skirts and step out onto the red carpet leading inside. Here we go – off to my amazing future with Mustaf!

As I step out of the limo in my sweeping white gown, Sandra comes to meet me. Her face lights up when she sees me.

"Oh, my gosh, Meiko! You look absolutely stunning," she gushes, hurrying over to link her arm through mine.

I grin, giving her hand an affectionate squeeze. "Thanks, hon. You look gorgeous yourself in that dress."

She waves a hand dismissively even as she preens. "Please, today is all about the bride. And you are radiant, girl!"

Sandra guides me towards the grand arched entrance of the ornate wedding venue. My heart flutters with excitement and nerves. In just a short while, I'll be walking down that aisle to meet my destiny.

As if reading my mind, Sandra gives my arm a reassuring pat. "Don't you worry about a thing. I'll be by your side the whole time. You've got this!"

I smile gratefully at her. With my best friend at my back, I feel ready to take this next step.

We pause in front of the tall wooden doors leading inside. I take a deep breath, smooth my dress one last time, and nod to Sandra. She throws the doors open wide.

The interior takes my breath away. It's even more stunning than I remembered. Garlands of flowers and twinkling lights adorn every surface. The chairs are arranged perfectly down two aisles leading to an arch overflowing with roses. It's everything I've dreamed of and more.

Sandra hugs me tightly. "This is really happening! Let's go get you married, girl."

Buoyed by her enthusiasm, I straighten my shoulders and step forward into my future, more ready than ever to walk down that aisle and say, ‘I do.’

As I step into the lavishly decorated hall, the flowing aisles lined with rows of expectant guests, my gaze is immediately drawn to the front. There, beneath the floral archway, stands Mustaf looking absolutely striking in his tailored suit.

Our eyes meet across the distance and in that moment, the rest of the room fades away. It's just the two of us, together at last on our long-awaited wedding day.

My breath catches at how incredibly handsome he looks, the love shining from his eyes making my heart swell. I can't stop the tears that suddenly spring forth, overcome by this precious moment. Through the sheen of joyful tears I see Mustaf's eyes glisten as well, a tender smile on his lips.

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