Andrew leans back, taking a sip of his drink. “You know, for someone who talks for a living, you’re awfully bad at this.”
“Thanks for the support,” I say dryly.
He grins, but then his expression softens, his tone shifting. “Seriously, Levi. Just speak from the heart. Tania loves you—not because you’re perfect, but because you’re you. That’s all she needs to hear.”
I nod, his words settling over me like a quiet assurance. “Thanks, Andrew.”
“Anytime,” he says, standing and clapping a hand on my shoulder. “Now, get those vows written so you don’t embarrass yourself tomorrow. I’m not bailing you out if you freeze up.”
I laugh as he disappears back inside, leaving me alone with the notebook and the stars.
The words come easier now,each sentence flowing onto the page with a clarity I didn’t expect. I write about the moment I met Tania, the way she challenged me from the very beginning. I write about the mistakes I made, the lessons I learned, and the way she’s changed me for the better.
But most of all, I write about the future I see with her—the life we’re building together, the love that’s only grown stronger through every trial we’ve faced.
When I finally set the pen down, my chest feels lighter, a quiet peace settling over me.
I close the notebook,leaning back in my chair as I let the cool air wash over me. The city hums below, but up here, it’s quiet. Peaceful.
Tomorrow, I’ll stand in front of the people who matter most and promise Tania everything I have, everything I am.
And for the first time in my life, I feel ready.
Chapter Forty-Nine
Tania
The soft rustle of fabric and the faint hum of conversation fill the air as I stand in the bridal suite, staring at my reflection in the full-length mirror. My wedding gown flows around me, the delicate lace and shimmering beads catching the sunlight streaming through the windows. My hair is styled simply, with loose curls framing my face and a few flowers woven into the strands.
“You’re beautiful,” Beth says softly, standing behind me. Her eyes are glassy with unshed tears.
I swallow hard, my chest tight with a mix of nerves and excitement. “Is this real?” I whisper.
“It’s real,” she replies, squeezing my shoulders gently. “And you’re ready for this.”
Jenna and Claire bustle in, adjusting the veil and handing me my bouquet. Their smiles are warm and encouraging, and the moment feels almost surreal.
“It’s time,” Jenna says, her voice filled with emotion.
I nod, taking a deep breath as I grip the bouquet. My heart races as I step toward the door, each step bringing me closer to the life I’ve fought so hard to build with Levi.
The garden is breathtaking.Rows of white chairs line the lush green lawn, filled with friends and family, their faces alight with anticipation. An arch adorned with cascading flowers stands at the end of the aisle, framed by the soft glow of the afternoon sun.
And there, beneath the arch, is Levi.
My breath catches as our eyes meet. He looks impossibly handsome in his tailored suit, his green eyes locked on me with an intensity that makes everything else fade away. For a moment, it feels like we’re the only two people in the world.
I take my first step down the aisle, my father by my side. The murmurs of the crowd fade into the background, replaced by the steady rhythm of my heartbeat. Each step feels both monumental and inevitable, like I’ve been walking toward this moment my entire life.
When I reach Levi, my father places my hand in his, and the warmth of Levi’s touch steadies me instantly.
“You’re stunning,” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion.
“You’re not so bad yourself,” I reply, my lips curving into a small smile.
The officiant begins,their words soft and heartfelt, but my focus is entirely on Levi. He looks at me like I’m the only thing that matters, and for the first time in days, the nerves in my chest give way to something brighter.
When it’s time for our vows, Levi steps forward, pulling a small piece of paper from his pocket. His voice is steady but thick with emotion as he speaks.