Page 103 of Fury
"He's nervous," I say, surprised.
Dad chuckles. "Terrified is more like it. Zach said he hasn't slept in two days."
"Why would he be scared? He knows I'm going to show up."
"It's not about you showing up," Dad explains as we approach the garden doors. "It's about deserving you. Men like us, men with darkness in their pasts, we never quite believe we deserve the light."
The music changes, signaling our cue. Dad places my hand in the crook of his arm, giving it a reassuring squeeze.
"You'll always be my baby girl." His voice is low enough that only I can hear his words. "But from today, you're his. His to protect, his to cherish, his to build a life with." He kisses my cheek, a final benediction. "I couldn't have chosen better for you if I'd tried."
The doors open, and every head turns to watch us enter. But I see only Greyson, his eyes finding mine across the garden, his expression transforming from anxiety to wonder as he takes in the sight of me in my wedding dress.
Dad and I begin our walk down the aisle, each step bringing me closer to the future I've chosen. As we reach the altar, I feel my father's grip tighten briefly before he places my hand in Greyson's.
"Take care of my greatest treasure." His voice carries in the hushed garden.
Greyson's eyes never leave mine as he answers, "With my life."
Dad steps back, and suddenly it's just us, Greyson and me, standing before our families and friends, ready to make promises that will bind us forever.
"You're stunning," Greyson whispers, his voice rough with emotion.
"So are you," I reply, taking in his tailored suit, the way it emphasizes the breadth of his shoulders, the strength that has sheltered me through the darkest times.
The officiant begins the ceremony, but I barely hear the words. I'm lost in Greyson's eyes, in the love shining there, in the future I can see reflected in their depths.
When it's time for our vows, Greyson speaks first, his deep voice steady despite the emotion evident in every word.
"Livie, from the moment you walked back into my life, nothing has been the same. You challenged me, frustrated me, made me question everything I thought I knew about myself." His thumb traces circles on my hand as he continues. "You've seen me at my worst—vengeful, violent, consumed by darkness—and somehow still found something in me worth loving."
A murmur ripples through the guests, but Greyson doesn't falter.
"I stand here today promising you not perfection, but devotion. Not a life without storms, but a hand to hold through every tempest. Whatever comes, whatever challenges we face, I will be beside you—loving you, protecting you, choosing you every day for the rest of our lives."
Tears blur my vision as I begin my own vows, my voice wavering slightly before finding strength.
"Greyson, you once told me that I make you want to be better than you are. What you don't realize is that you already are that man—strong enough to be gentle, fierce enough to be tender, brave enough to love without reservation." I squeeze his hands, drawing courage from his touch. "We've walked through fire together and emerged stronger. I promise to face whatever comes next with the same courage, the same trust, the same unwavering belief in us."
The exchange of rings passes in a blur of emotion, and then the officiant is pronouncing us husband and wife, inviting Greyson to kiss his bride. He cups my face with reverent hands, his eyes saying everything his lips cannot in this public moment.
When he finally kisses me, it's gentle but full of promise—a preview of the lifetime awaiting us.
"Mrs. Reed," he murmurs against my lips as our guests erupt in applause.
"Mr. Reed," I reply, grinning up at him.
We turn to face our friends and family, hands clasped tightly together. My father is in the front row, tears streaming unashamedly down his face. My brothers stand nearby, pride evident in their stances. Mason whistles loudly, causing laughter to ripple through the crowd.
The reception is a blur of congratulations, dancing, and celebration. Greyson keeps me close, his hand rarely leaving mine as we move through the festivities. When my father claims me for our dance, Greyson relinquishes me with obvious reluctance.
"Happy?" Dad asks as we sway to the music.
I glance over at my husband, who's watching us with such naked adoration it takes my breath away. "Completely."
"Good." Dad follows my gaze, his expression softening. "That's all I've ever wanted for you, baby girl. Happiness. Safety. Love."
"I have all three," I assure him, resting my head briefly on his shoulder. "Thanks to you showing me what to look for."
