Chapter 13 - The New Chapter
Two years later, golden late-afternoon sunlight bathed the private gardens of the Vance estate. The turquoise swimming pool sparkled under the clear blue sky, surrounding stone decking filled with fresh floral arrangements and white satin ribbons.
Everett stood near a white floral arch set up on the lawn, wearing a sharp charcoal suit. Beside him stood Harold, acting as his best man, smiling warmly at his longtime friend.
Soft violin music began to play across the gardens. Five-year-old Daisy walked down the aisle as the flower girl, wearing a pale pink dress and tossing white rose petals onto the green grass.
Then, Tessa appeared, walking down the aisle in a breathtaking lace wedding dress, holding a bouquet of fresh peonies. Her dark hair was styled in soft waves, and her smile illuminated the entire estate.
Everett took a deep breath, his heart swelling with pure joy as she reached the altar.
"You look stunning," Everett whispered as he took her hands.
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"You don't look too bad yourself, Mr. Vance," Tessa whispered back with a playful wink.
As the minister pronounced them husband and wife, Everett pulled Tessa into a passionate, loving kiss while the gathered guests clapped and cheered. Daisy ran up, jumping into their shared embrace as the warm summer sun shone down on them.
