Page 44 of Influence

Tears started to well in my eyes. “I miss them so much.”

“Don’t even think about crying! Not on your wedding day, anyway,” Avra warned, just as Cali entered the room.

“Who’s crying?” Cali inquired, scanning the room as she made her way over to us.

I replied, “Not me,” even as I tried to conceal the quiver in my voice.

Cali tilted her head, regarding me with a mix of concern and practicality. “You look like you’re about to march right into your own demise. Are you sure you’re okay?”

Avra stepped in to clarify. “She’s just a bundle of nerves, like every bride on her wedding day.”

Cali’s gaze softened as she nodded slowly. “I see. And for what it’s worth, I truly believe you’ve made a good choice. I like Niko a lot. He’s also been kind and welcoming to me. I have just one small complaint.”

“And that is?” I asked, eyebrows raised.

“He makes you scream loud enough for the whole estate to hear,” Cali teased.

“Oh my God.” I laughed in relief. “I can’t wait for that island getaway—finally some privacy.”

“I can’t wait either, believe me.” Cali gave my arm a firm pat. “So, dear sister, everyone’s arriving and seated out there. They’re all just waiting for the bride to join them.”

I exhaled, my hands trembling and mind racing.

“Fuck,” I muttered under my breath, then louder, “Fuck, fuck, fuck! What do I do?”

“Easy,” Cali said with a casual shrug. “Just walk outside, say ‘I do,’ and then, later, fuck your new husband on that deserted island. Simple as that.”

“All right, that’s enough teasing,” Avra interjected, clapping her hands to regain control of the mood. “How about we start this wedding so you can enjoy that island getaway? Are you ready, Laya?”

Steadying myself with a deep, grounding breath, I nodded slowly. “I think so.”

“Good,” Avra admonished. “Just calm down and breathe, please avoid hyperventilating. Everything will be alright.”

“From your lips to God’s ears,” I whispered as we stepped out of my room together. Cali followed closely behind, cradling our bouquets in her arms as the sound of approaching guests filled the corridor with anticipation.

Vik stood by the carved wooden terrace doors, his eyes surveying the garden beyond. When he noticed us crossing the threshold into the living room, he stepped forward with slow, deliberate motion. In one fluid gesture, Vik joined us, his gaze immediately searching for me. The moment our eyes met, the contours of his face softened, and tears welled up, glistening under the calm light of the chandelier.

“You’re breathtaking, Laya,” Vik whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “Niko is one lucky man.”

He leaned in and pressed a kiss to my cheek.

I silently conveyed my thanks, feeling reassured by his calm, confident presence. Vik served not only as my confidant but also as a steady presence leading me down the aisle, a role he had taken on with steadfast grace after our Papa’s passing.

From the moment he’d entered our lives, he never wandered far from us. His unwavering dedication was clear in every sacrifice he made, putting his dreams aside to care for three daughters who weren’t even related to him. His constant presence would always be treasured in my heart, as no one could ever measure up to the one who had taken my father’s role.

“How are you feeling?” he asked, affectionately holding my hands.

I admitted, “Nervous.”

“That’s natural,” he murmured, drawing me into a protective and affirming hug. As his arms encircled me, he leaned in, his eyes searching mine with earnest intensity. “Before we proceed, I have something to share with you, sweetheart.”

I met his gaze, my eyes wide with anticipation.

Pulling back ever so slightly, Vik’s expression deepened as he said, “Laya, your father would have been bursting with pride today. I’m equally proud of you. Watching you grow into this incredible woman has been a true honor, a journey in which I’ve been blessed to participate.”

His sincerity echoed in the quiet hush of the room, and I felt my heart swell with gratitude.

“We wouldn’t be who we are without you, Vik,” I whispered, trying my best to convey my feelings without crying. “We’re incredibly grateful for you.”

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