Page 42 of Dilectio

As I step out into the sunlight, I clutch the book to my chest and prepare to face the unknown in my quest to win back Quinn's heart.

16

More than Words

Quinn

Iglanceatmyreflection in the mirror, taking in the details of my outfit for the wedding. I'm wearing a floor-length, A-line dress in a soft, pastel blue shade that complements my skin tone. The delicate chiffon fabric drapes gracefully over my body, creating an elegant silhouette.

The dress features a V-neckline, which is both sophisticated and alluring, while the short, flutter sleeves add a touch of romance to the ensemble. The fitted bodice accentuates my waist, and the flowing skirt allows for easy movement as I walk or dance.

I've chosen to wear my hair in a loose, side-swept updo, with a few tendrils framing my face. The hairstyle highlights the graceful curve of my neck and showcases the simple yet stunning pair of silver teardrop earrings I've chosen as my only accessory. A matching silver bracelet adorns my wrist, catching the light as I move.

My makeup is soft and natural, with a hint of shimmer on my eyelids and a subtle pink blush on my cheeks. I've opted for a classic, rosy lipstick that adds a touch of color without being too bold.

As I take one last look at myself, I can't help but feel a sense of pride in my appearance. Despite the emotional turmoil I'm experiencing, I know I look beautiful and poised.

Today is Dane's wedding, and I can't help but feel a sense of dread. I don't want to go, not after everything that's happened between Ezra and me. But I can't disappoint Paige, Katrina, or Cassidy, so I put on a brave face and prepare myself for the event.

As I apply a final touch of lipstick, Paige enters my room, her eyes welling up with tears. "Quinn, I don't want you to leave," she says, her voice trembling.

I kneel down and wrap my arms around her, fighting back my own tears. "Oh, sweetie, I know this is hard. But I promise you, I'll come and visit you often, okay?"

Paige nods, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "Okay, but I'll still miss you."

"I'll miss you too," I whisper, giving her one last hug before we both leave the room.

Ezra has been quiet all week. It's as if a wall has been built between us, and I don't know how to break through it. The pain of our breakup is still fresh, and every time our eyes meet, I feel my heart shatter all over again.

In the meantime, I've started applying for jobs, hoping to find something that will help me make the payments for my grandmother's mortgage now that I'm quitting my nanny job. The thought of leaving behind the life I've built here terrifies me, but I know it's what I need to do to move forward.

I haven’t found any jobs that match the income I was making working for Ezra, and I’m in a low-key panic that I won’t find another job before the next payment is due.

When I walk downstairs, I see Ezra waiting for Paige and me at the bottom of the stairs. Paige is wearing an adorable white dress adorned with lace and tiny blue flowers that match my own gown. Her hair is styled in loose curls, held back with a delicate white flower headband.

Ezra looks absolutely incredible. He's dressed in a tailored black tuxedo that accentuates his broad shoulders and fits him like a glove. The crisp white dress shirt contrasts perfectly with his sun-kissed skin, while his black bow tie adds an air of sophistication. His thick hair is styled to perfection, with a few stray strands falling onto his forehead, giving him a slightly disheveled yet undeniably sexy look.

As my eyes meet his, I pause, momentarily lost in the depths of his piercing gaze. There's a hint of sadness in his eyes that tugs at my heartstrings, but it's quickly overshadowed by the undeniable magnetism that radiates from him.

Paige excitedly skips down the stairs towards Ezra, who greets her with a warm smile. He bends down to adjust her headband, and I'm struck by the tenderness in his actions. It's a subtle reminder of the many moments we shared together, and it only serves to deepen the ache in my heart.

I follow Paige down the stairs, and I can feel Ezra's eyes on me, taking in my appearance. For a moment, the air between us is thick with unspoken emotions, making it difficult to breathe. The spell is broken when Paige asks how many pieces of cake she can have, and we're forced to put on our brave faces once again.

As we make our way to the ceremony, I feel the weight of our unspoken words and unresolved feelings bearing down on us more than ever.

We arrive at the luxurious wedding venue, and my stomach churns at the thought of feeling a little out of place once again. The lavish estate is adorned with meticulously manicured gardens, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers. The grand entrance is lined with tall, white columns, creating an awe-inspiring pathway to the ceremony area.

The guests are dressed in their finest attire, mingling and laughing as they sip champagne from crystal flutes. The atmosphere is one of opulence and sophistication, which only serves to heighten my sense of inadequacy. As a girl from a low-income family raised by her grandmother, I've never experienced anything quite like this before.

We make our way to the ceremony area, passing by a series of elegant water fountains and intricate topiaries. The aisle is lined with white rose petals, leading up to a breathtaking floral arch under which Dane and Katrina will exchange their vows. Rows of gold Chiavari chairs adorned with white cushions fill the lawn, each decorated with a delicate bouquet of flowers tied with a satin ribbon.

Paige excitedly skips ahead, her flower girl dress fluttering around her as she takes her place at the start of the aisle. Ezra, looking dashing as the best man, stands off to the side, his gaze locked on me for a moment before he turns his attention back to his brother and soon-to-be sister-in-law.

As the ceremony begins, Katrina makes her entrance, looking ethereal in her stunning wedding gown. The dress is a masterpiece of delicate lace and silk, with a fitted bodice that accentuates her curves and a voluminous skirt that cascades down like a waterfall. Her long veil trails behind her, adding a touch of mystery and grace.

Throughout the ceremony, I can feel Ezra's eyes on me, our glances occasionally meeting, laden with unspoken emotions. The pain from our breakup and the feeling that he was ashamed to make our relationship public still lingers in my heart. I wonder if I will ever find the happiness that Katrina and Dane share.

The moment arrives for Katrina and Dane to exchange their vows. The atmosphere becomes charged with emotion as they face each other, their eyes locked in a tender gaze. Their love is palpable, and I can feel my heart swelling as I witness this intimate moment.

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