Page 162 of Set me Free

The ocean breezedrifted through the slightly open windows of the luxurious bridal suite at the Bel-Air Bay Club, carrying with it the scent of fresh gardenias and roses from the outdoor ceremony setup. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating the soft champagne and ivory décor, casting a golden glow over the floor-to-ceiling mirrors where we were getting ready.

Arielle sat in front of one of those mirrors, a vision in white, her dress a stunning custom Zuhair Murad gown with delicate lace sleeves and a fitted bodice that accentuated her curves before flowing into a breathtaking train. A long, sheer veil cascaded from her perfectly styled curls, framing her radiant face.

“Damn, cousin,” I whispered as I walked up behind her, smiling at her reflection. “You are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen.”

Arielle turned, her eyes glossy with emotion, and grabbed my hands. “You really think so?”

I nodded. “Absolutely.”

“She ‘bout to have Brodie passing out at the altar,” Egypt teased, standing off to the side in her silk champagne-colored bridesmaid dress.

“He better not!” Averi giggled, slipping earrings into her ears.

We all laughed, but the moment quickly turned emotional.

“You good, Ari?” I asked softly so that only she could hear me.

She exhaled, nodding. “I just… I can’t believe this day is finally here. And I’m pregnant again, I don’t know why I’m nervous to make this announcement.”

I squeezed her hands. “It’s gonna be perfect. And when you tell everyone later, it’s only gonna make it that much better.”

Ari smiled, then suddenly turned to Cree, who had been sitting on the plush white sofa, playing with a bridesmaid’s bouquet. My baby girl looked adorable, dressed in a soft pink tulle dress with matching satin ballet flats. Her hair was freshly curled, a tiny tiara placed perfectly at the crown of her head.

“Cree, baby,” Ari called, “do I look pretty?”

Cree gasped dramatically before clapping her hands. “Auntie Ari! You a princess!”

Arielle laughed, wiping a tear away before reaching for her bouquet. “Okay, let’s do this.”

The outdoor ceremony was set against the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing softly in the background as Arielle walked down the ivory petal-strewn aisle toward Brodie. Gold-trimmed chairs, white hydrangeas, and floating candles lined the space, creating a dreamlike scene straight out of a fairytale.

When Brodie saw Arielle, he damn near lost it—his jaw clenched, eyes welling up as he took in the sight of his soon-to-be wife. The love on his face was undeniable, and it only made me glance at Creed, who was standing slightly behind Brodie, holding Gio’s hand.

He caught my gaze, winked, and mouthed, “You fine as fuck.”

I smirked and playfully rolled my eyes, even though my heart melted.

The ceremony was beautiful, filled with love, and when Arielle and Brodie finally said their vows and shared their first kiss as husband and wife, the entire crowd erupted into cheers.

The ballroom was bathed in golden candlelight, the tables adorned with champagne linens, floral centerpieces, and fine crystal glassware. Everyone was smiling, laughing, and celebrating—just enjoying the love in the air.

I had been dancing with the kids all night, but at some point, Creed pulled me onto the dance floor for a slow dance.

“You’re glowing, Mrs. Langston,” he murmured against my ear.

I tilted my head up at him. “That’s because I’m happy.”

Creed’s arms tightened around me. “Good. Because I still feel bad that I only gave you a Vegas chapel.”

I smiled softly. “Creed, I don’t care where we got married. All that mattered to me was that we did it. That we’re together.”

He exhaled, then pulled back slightly to look at me. “Still, I owe you a real wedding. One with your whole family there. One where I can see you walk down the aisle to me. That shit inspired me. So, on our first anniversary, I’m giving you the wedding of your dreams.”

I blinked up at him, heart fluttering.

“I already legally changed my last name,” I admitted. “Even though my brand will always be Bradshaw, I’m Serenity Langston in every way that matters.”

His grin widened. “Damn right, you are.”

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