Chapter 9 - The Wedding at the Lake
Spring arrived six months later, bringing warm sunlight, blue skies, and blooming cherry blossoms across the grounds of the Blackwood estate overlooking Lake Michigan.
The mansion was no longer a cold fortress of marble and dark wood. The heavy iron gates stood open, the gardens were filled with rose bushes and playgrounds, and the sound of children's laughter echoed across the lawns.
Lily stood in the master dressing room, wearing a stunning, simple lace wedding gown with a flowing train. Her hair was swept up in soft curls, pinned with pearl clips.
A quiet knock came at the open door.
Victor walked in, wearing a sharp black tuxedo. He stopped in his tracks, staring at her with a look of pure reverence.
"You are breathtaking," Victor whispered, walking over to wrap his arms gently around her waist, breathing in the scent of her vanilla perfume.
"And you're early," Lily teased softly, resting her hands against his chest. "It's bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the ceremony."
"I make my own luck, Mrs. Blackwood," Victor smiled, leaning down to kiss her lips deeply.
Little Ethan, now over two years old and running firmly on his own feet, bounded into the room wearing a miniature tuxedo, carrying a velvet pillow with two golden rings.
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"Look, Mommy! Rings!" Ethan giggled, holding the pillow up proudly.
Lily dropped to her knees, hugging Ethan tightly against her lace dress. The word Mommy coming from his lips felt more precious than every diamond in the world.
