Page 82 of Worship Him

I stand under the flowery arch, my hand clasped tightly in Adam's, and I can't help but marvel at the beauty surrounding us.

The white and red lilies scattered everywhere seem to glow in the soft light of dusk, their petals catching the gentle breeze. Fairy lights twinkle in the trees, casting a magical glow over our intimate gathering.

"You look absolutely breathtaking," he whispers, his dark blue eyes intense as they lock onto mine.

I squeeze his hand, a smile playing on my lips. "You clean up pretty well yourself, Mr. Ryder."

The officiant clears his throat, drawing our attention back to the ceremony.

As he speaks about love and second chances, I find myself stealing glances at our guests. Jackie and Barrett sit in the front row, Avery nestled in Jackie's arms. My heart swells at the sight of our daughter, her tiny fingers reaching for the twinkling lights above.

"I believe you've prepared your own vows?" the officiant prompts, pulling me back to the present.

Adam nods, his grip on my hand tightening slightly. "Destiny," he begins, his voice steady and sure, "I thought I knew what love was when we first met. But standing here with you now, after everything we've been through, I realize I had no idea. You've shown me what true partnership means, what it feels like to be completely understood and accepted. I promise to never take that for granted again."

Tears prick at my eyes, but I blink them back. "Adam," I say, my voice wavering slightly, "you've always pushed me to chase my dreams, to believe in myself. Even when we were apart, that never changed. You are my biggest inspiration in life. That’s why I promise to always be your biggest supporter, your partner in every sense of the word. We've been given a second chance, and I intend to make the most of it."

We exchange rings, the metal cool against my skin, and I'm struck by how right this feels. It's not just a wedding—it's a rebirth, a recommitment to the love we never truly lost.

"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the officiant declares. "You may kiss the bride."

Adam's lips meet mine, and the world fades away. In this moment, under the twinkling lights and surrounded by flowers, it truly feels like we're living our own modern fairy tale.

We walk down the aisle, holding hands, laughing as our few guests throw red and white confetti over our heads.

I catch a glimpse of Jackie sniffling and Thomas, Adam’s lawyer, grins widely at him, shooting my husband with a ‘you got this’ look.

When we say our goodbyes to our friends and family, I can't help but feel a surge of excitement. Adam scoops up Avery, cradling her against his chest, and we make our way to the car.

"Ready for our family honeymoon, Mrs. Ryder?" he asks, his voice low and teasing.

I laugh, sliding into the passenger seat. "More than ready, Mr. Ryder."

We drive to our cottage, the car filled with comfortable silence, punctuated by Avery's soft coos and occasional giggles. I find myself stealing glances at Adam, admiring the way the setting sun casts a golden glow on his profile.

"What're you thinking about?" he asks, catching me staring.

"Just... how happy I am," I admit, my voice thick with emotion. "I never thought we'd be here again."

He reaches over, taking my hand in his. "We're exactly where we're supposed to be, Des. Together."

I nod, feeling as if my heart is going to burst with joy. What a lovely sensation.

As we drive, memories of our past visits to the cabin flood my mind. The laughter, the stolen kisses, the plans we made for our future.

Unexpectedly, tears start to well up in my eyes.

"Hey," Adam says softly, pulling over the car and turning to face me. "What's wrong?"

I shake my head, wiping at my eyes. "Nothing's wrong. I'm just... overwhelmed. In the best way possible."

He leans over, cupping my face in his hands. "We've got our whole lives ahead of us, Des. And I promise you, every day will be better than the last."

I take his hand in mine. "I know, that’s why I can’t help but cry like an idiot."

He smiles and kisses me softly. "You’re wonderful." Shifting back into his seat, he smiles again. "Now, let’s get to that cabin so we can start our honeymoon already. I look forward to ripping your clothes off again."

I gasp. "Adam! We’ve got Avery with us!"

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