Page 63 of Claws and Controllers

Ellie took a deep breath, squaring her shoulders. “Let’s do this.”

The grand ballroom of the Plaza Hotel had been transformed into a magical wonderland that seamlessly blended the aesthetics of a fairy tale wedding with the cutting-edge world of gaming. Holographic displays showcased scenes from Ellie and Zy’s new game, “Infinite Union,” while delicate floral arrangements and twinkling lights created a romantic atmosphere.

As Ellie made her entrance on her father’s arm, she caught sight of Zy waiting for her at the end of the aisle. His tailored tuxedo accentuated his tall, muscular frame, and the look of awe and adoration on his face made her heart skip a beat. This was it – the moment she’d walk toward her future, both in love and in business.

The ceremony itself passed in a blur of emotion and tender moments. Before Ellie knew it, she and Zy were sharing their first kiss as husband and wife, the cheers and applause of their guests washing over them like a wave of joy and support.

As they made their way back down the aisle, hand in hand, Ellie caught sight of familiar faces in the crowd. Her parents, beaming with pride; her grandmother Elena, dabbing at her eyes with a lace handkerchief; Zy’s family, looking regal and approving; and of course, Adonis, standing tall and proud as Zy’s best man.

The reception that followed was a whirlwind of congratulations, laughter, and celebration. As the newlyweds made their grand entrance into the ballroom, now reconfigured for the party, the DJ’s voice boomed through the speakers:

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the new power couple of the gaming world – Mr. and Mrs. Zyan and Elliot Ashford!”

Cheers erupted as Ellie and Zy swept onto the dance floor for their first dance. As they swayed to the music, Zy leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear.

“Happy, Mrs. Ashford?” he murmured, his voice low and full of love.

Ellie tilted her head back to meet his gaze, her smile radiant. “Ecstatic, Mr. Ashford. Though I might keep Madden for professional purposes – can’t have people thinking I slept my way to the top, now can we?”

Zy’s laugh rumbled through his chest. “As if anyone who’s met you could think that. You’re a force of nature, Ellie. I’m just along for the ride.”

As the dance floor opened up to their guests, Ellie found herself swept from one group to another, accepting congratulations and well-wishes. She couldn’t help but notice Frankie engaged in what appeared to be a very animated conversation with Adonis, her sister’s eyes sparkling with interest.

“Looks like Frankie’s got her sights set on your best man,” Ellie commented to Zy as they paused for a moment at the edge of the dance floor.

Zy followed her gaze, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. “Adonis could use someone to keep him on his toes. Your sister might be just the ticket.”

Before Ellie could respond, the DJ’s voice cut through the chatter once more. “And now, ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to the stage our bride and groom for a very special announcement.”

Zy took Ellie’s hand, leading her up to the small stage that had been set up at one end of the ballroom. As they stepped up to the microphone, a hush fell over the crowd.

“First of all,” Ellie began, her voice clear and strong, “Zy and I want to thank you all for being here to celebrate with us. This day means more to us than we can possibly express.”

Zy nodded, his arm wrapping around Ellie’s waist. “But as many of you know, today isn’t just about our wedding. It’s also about the launch of our first collaborative project as husband and wife –Infinite Union.”

A cheer went up from the crowd, particularly loud from the tables where their respective development teams sat.

“Infinite Unionis more than just a game,” Ellie continued. “It’s a symbol of what can be achieved when two competing forces come together in harmony. It’s about breaking down barriers, finding common ground, and creating something beautiful out of adversity.”

“Much like our relationship,” Zy added with a grin, earning a laugh from the audience.

Ellie elbowed him playfully before growing serious once more. “But before we unveil the game, there’s someone we need to acknowledge. Someone without whom neither this game nor this wedding would be possible.”

She turned to where Adonis stood near the stage. “Adonis, would you join us up here?”

Looking surprised, Adonis made his way onto the stage amidst applause.

“Adonis,” Zy began, his voice thick with emotion, “you’ve been my right-hand man, my voice of reason, and my brother in all but blood for longer than I care to admit. But a few months ago, you became something even more – a hero.”

Ellie took over, her eyes shining with unshed tears. “When my life was in danger, you didn’t hesitate to put yourself inharm’s way to protect me. You took a bullet that was meant for me, and in doing so, you not only saved my life but preserved the future that Zy and I now share.”

The room had grown pin-drop silent, all eyes on the trio on stage.

“There’s no way we can ever repay you for what you’ve done,” Zy continued, “but we hope this small gesture will show you how much you mean to us.”

With that, he handed Adonis an envelope. As Adonis opened it, his eyes widened in shock at the legal documents inside.

“This... this is...” he stammered, looking between Zy and Ellie in disbelief.

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