Page 77 of A Duke's Scandalous Obsession
“Maybe I like it when you say it,” she teased.
He buried his nose into her neck, making her giggle. “That tickles!”
“I love it when you laugh like that,” he murmured against her skin. “So happily, without any restraint.”
“Well, that is all because of you,” she smiled in the reflection.
“Me, you say?” he replied playfully.
“Yes,” she nodded. “You showed me… the error of my ways, let’s call them?”
He laughed at her choice of words, which she knew he would. “You could call it that. The truth was that I was an oaf, and you were kind enough to give me a second chance.”
“I wouldn’t have given it to you unless I thought you deserved it,” she said, turning to him and cupping his face with her hands. “And you, my love, look as handsome as ever.”
His eyes sparkled with affection as he drew her into his embrace, holding her close with a gentle tenderness that spoke volumes of his love and devotion. “I cannot imagine my life without you,” he whispered, his words a heartfelt declaration of his unwavering commitment to their shared future.
With a sigh of contentment, Catherine rested her head against his chest, her heart overflowing with gratitude for the man who had captured her heart so completely. “And I cannot imagine mine without you,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she savored the sweet embrace of their love. “Now, let us witness another loving couple promise themselves to each other,” she smiled.
Together, they walked hand in hand out of her chamber and down the staircase. The wedding of her brother and Annabel was to take place in the marvelous garden of Fairhaven Estate,and Catherine had assured to make it a magical occasion. As Dominic led them to their designated place, Catherine couldn’t help but be in awe of what she, Annabel, and little Rosie managed to do.
Brightly colored bunting fluttered in the breeze, adding a cheerful touch to the scene as it danced merrily overhead. Tables adorned with crisp white linens were dotted throughout the garden, each one adorned with simple yet elegant floral arrangements in hues of soft pastels and vibrant greens.
Underneath the sprawling branches of ancient trees, guests mingled and laughed, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of the sun. A sense of joy and anticipation hung in the air, mingling with the scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers.
At the heart of the garden, a rustic wooden archway stood adorned with wildflowers and trailing vines, creating a natural and inviting backdrop for the ceremony. A carpet of petals lined the aisle, leading the way for the bride as she made her entrance, her beauty radiant in the morning light.
As the ceremony began, birdsong filled the air, adding a melodic soundtrack to the heartfelt exchange of vows. The gentle rustle of leaves and the soft murmur of conversation provided a soothing backdrop to the proceedings, creating a sense of intimacy and connection among the gathered guests.
It was truly a sight to behold. Catherine watched as her brother promised his love and devotion to a woman his heart belonged to, and Catherine knew that they would make each other truly happy, just like she and Dominic did. It was difficult finding a kindred spirit, a soulmate, because life tended to place many obstacles on such an important path. However, those who persevered would always be rewarded in the end.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Catherine relished the sight with a joyful heart as the guests mingled and laughed, their faces alight with the glow of happiness and celebration.
The garden buzzed with the hum of conversation, the air filled with the soft murmur of laughter and the clinking of glasses. Lost in the warmth of the moment, Catherine found herself lost in contemplation, reflecting on the beauty of the occasion and the love that filled the air. It was a sight to behold, a testament to the power of love and the joy of new beginnings.
Catherine found a solitary place underneath a weeping willow tree, slightly away from the hustle, in an effort to calm down the baby, who seemed to want to participate in the dancing part of the festivities. She gently placed her hand on her belly.
“Soon, my love,” she murmured softly to her baby. “Soon you will be with us, and you will be the most important part of everything we do.”
Her reverie was interrupted by Aunt Penelope, who approached her with a smile. “Do you mind if you join you, my dear?”
“Not at all,” Catherine smiled back. “Please, take a seat.” She huddled to the side of the bench, making some room.
“What a lovely occasion this has been,” Aunt Penelope gushed as she settled onto the bench next to Catherine. “It warms my heart to see young people so in love, especially you and Dominic.”
Catherine’s heart swelled with gratitude for this sweet woman’s kind words. “Thank you, Aunt Penelope,” she replied, her voice soft but sincere. “It truly has been a magical day, filled with love and joy.”
With a gentle squeeze of her hand, Aunt Penelope nodded in understanding, her eyes twinkling with affection. “I cannot wait for the little bundle of joy to come and greet us all with its grace. You will come often to visit, won’t you, my dear?”
Catherine nodded. “You will not be able to get rid of us,” she chuckles. “I can promise you that. I still remember how you made me feel so welcome in your home, right after Dominic and I got married.”
“I could sense some… turmoil back then,” Aunt Penelope spoke wisely. “I do not sense it any longer, thank heavens.”
“Yes,” Catherine nodded equally gratefully. “Everything is perfect now.”
“I hope it remains like that forever, my dear. Cherish those you love, for they can leave all too soon,” Aunt Penelope said, standing up.
“I will remember those words, thank you,” Catherine replied.
