Page 106 of Forbidden Professor

My heart feels like it might burst. I open my mouth to say my vows, but my voice trembles. “Carter, I…” I take a breath and try again.

“It’s okay,” he whispers, smiling.

I steady myself. “Carter, you’ve shown me what partnership truly means. With you, I found the strength to be myself.” My voice grows stronger. “I promise to support you, to stand by you, to believe in your dreams just as you believe in mine.”

As I speak, I see emotions flicker across Carter’s face. Love. Pride. The shimmer of unshed tears

The officiant’s voice rings out. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

Carter cups my face, his touch warm and gentle. His lips meet mine, and everything else fades. His kiss is soft, full of promise. I melt into him, savoring every second.

When we pull back, breathless and grinning, the beach erupts in cheers. Aiden’s voice booms above the rest. Even My dad claps, and for once, he looks genuinely happy. My heart soars.

“Ready to face the world, Mrs. Morgan?” Carter whispers, his forehead resting against mine.

I laugh, feeling light and free. “Lead the way, Mr. Morgan.”

Hand in hand, we walk down the sandy aisle. Flower petals fall around us as the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. It feels like a dream.

Soon, we’re piling into cars, excitement thick as we head to the restaurant. The scent of spices and sizzling meat greets us. Papel picado banners crisscross the ceiling, and fairy lights cast a warm glow over everything.

“This is perfect,” I murmur to Carter, taking it all in.

He squeezes my hand. “You’re perfect,” he says, eyes twinkling. “Though I have to admit, I’m starving. Think they have those fish tacos you love?”

I laugh, realizing I’m hungry too. “I hope so. Let’s find out.”

We sit at a long table, surrounded by the chatter of our loved ones. Carter’s hand finds mine under the table, and I feel a wave of calm wash over me.

“So, little sister,” Aiden calls from across the table, a glint in his eye. “How does it feel to finally make an honest man out of Carter?”

I roll my eyes. “I’d say he’s the one who made an honest woman out of me. You know how devious I can be.”

Laughter erupts around the table. Carter leans close, his breath warm against my ear. “Devious, huh? I’ll have to keep an eye on you.”

“You’d better,” I tease, my heart skipping at his closeness.

The waiter arrives with steaming plates of fajitas and bowls of guacamole. Conversation flows freely, laughter and clinking glasses filling the room.

I glance at my dad, expecting his usual stern look. But to my surprise, he’s watching us with a soft expression. Our eyes meet, and he raises his glass.

“Eve. Carter,” he begins, his voice gruff yet emotional. “I haven’t always been the most supportive father.” The table goes silent, and I hold my breath. “But seeing you two today… it’s clear I was wrong.”

My eyes widen. Is this really happening?

Dad continues, “I want you both to have the best start possible. That’s why I’m giving you a property on Lake Washington.”

I gasp, hand flying to my mouth. That’s a very exclusive, expensive area. We’re talking Bill Gates kind of money.

“Dad, we can’t accept that,” I stammer, overwhelmed.

Dad’s face softens. “You can, and you will. You both deserve this.”

Tears prick my eyes, and I nod, unable to speak. Carter squeezes my hand, his expression full of gratitude. “We’re truly grateful.”

The table erupts in excited chatter. I meet Dad’s gaze again. For the first time in years, I see a glimpse of the father I used to know. I offer him a smile, hoping he sees how happy I am.

Mom would have wanted this for me.

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