Chapter 300
Chapter 300
The music began, a soft, melodic tune played by the string quartet. The guests quieted, all turning toward the aisle.
Clara stepped out first with Elliot, who cooed happily, stealing the hearts of everyone in attendance. Sunny followed close behind, her tail wagging as she made her way down the aisle.
“Oh, he’s adorable!” someone whispered.
“Look at the dog!” another guest said, snapping a photo.
Avery peeked out from the suite, her heart swelling with pride as she watched her little family charm the crowd.
Janice gave Avery a quick hug before stepping out to take her place as maid of honor.
“This is it,” Janice said, squeezing her hands. “Go get your happily ever after.”
Avery turned to her father, who offered her his arm.
“You’ve got this, sweetheart,” Theo said, his voice steady but filled with emotion.
The bridal march began, and the doors opened, revealing Avery to the crowd. A collective gasp rippled through the guests as she stepped forward, her father by her side.
Avery’s eyes immediately found Ryan at the end of the aisle. He looked impossibly handsome in his tailored navy suit, his hair perfectly styled. But it was the look on his face that took her breath away—a mixture of awe, love, and unwavering devotion.
Ryan’s jaw tightened as he blinked rapidly, clearly trying to keep his emotions in check.
“She’s stunning,” someone whispered, but Avery barely heard it. All she could see was Ryan.
Each step down the aisle felt surreal, like she was walking through a dream. The sunlight filtering through the canopy of lights made everything shimmer, and the gentle breeze carried the faint scent of roses and eucalyptus.
As she reached the altar, her father gave her hand a gentle squeeze before placing it in Ryan’s.
“Take care of her,” Theo said softly, his voice filled with emotion.
“Always,” Ryan replied, his eyes locked on Avery’s.
The world seemed to fade away as Avery and Ryan stood together, their hands intertwined.
“You’re breathtaking,” Ryan whispered, his voice thick with emotion.
Avery smiled, her heart overflowing. “So are you.”
The officiant stood before the glowing couple, a warm smile on his face as he began the ceremony.
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of Avery Kane Deveraux and Ryan Hayes in marriage. This day marks the beginning of their forever, surrounded by the love of their family and friends.”
Avery squeezed Ryan’s hand, her nerves settling as she focused on the man she loved.
The officiant continued, “Marriage is a promise—a commitment to share your lives, your dreams, and your challenges together. Before we proceed, however, it is customary to ask: If anyone has any objections to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace.”
The room was silent, the only sound being the soft rustling of leaves in the breeze. Avery let out a small breath, ready for the officiant to move on.
Then, a voice cut through the air like a knife.
“Me.”
The single word sent a ripple of gasps through the crowd. Avery’s heart stopped, her breath catching in her throat. Slowly, she turned toward the source of the voice, her hand still clutched in Ryan’s.
Standing at the back of the garden was a man she hadn’t seen in years. Matter of fact, he was supposed to be dead.
“Shawn…” Avery whispered, her voice barely audible.
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