Page 142 of Captive Bride

Isobel

The city looks old and ancient, as though a thousand stories have been born here over centuries past. It’s a stark contrast to my life in the city.

I breathe in the air from the terrace of our mansion. It’s centrally located but far enough away to give me some space. Tristan’s very cognizant of the fact that I need air and room to breathe because I was kept inside a high-rise for most of my life.

In keeping me prisoner, my parents achieved the wrong outcome. Instead of guarding me and shielding me from life, I went the other way. I delved into the darkest night and came out the other side.

Now I know my strength, a thing my father probably never counted on. If they had loved me in any real way, just a little bit, I might’ve stayed, or they might’ve been with me now, the day of my wedding.

“You look beautiful, Baby, like something out of a magazine.”

I turn around with a smile on my face.

“Thelma!” I fling my arms around her. “You’re here! And just in time.”

“Just landed. You think I would ever miss your wedding day?”

She looks chic as usual in a stunning black Gucci women’s tuxedo. It hugs her curves and makes her look fierce. But she’s wearing red pumps, too, but Thelma can pull off.

“I’m so glad you made it. I just can’t believe it’s happening—and with someone I love, no less.”

I turn to look at my reflection in the mirror. I really do look and feel like a bride. It’s funny how a dress can do that—transform you from an ordinary person into a special one.

“Yeah, Baby. You came very close to marrying the Governor.”

I shudder, thinking about it even now.

“So, you’re gonna live here with me now, right?”

She smiles and says, “Of course! Tristan would have it no other way.”

My heart flutters to think of him and of how he always puts my happiness first.

These months in Vienna have been a dream, an absolute dream. Tristan seems relaxed and more like himself.

Merc and Benny come to visit as often as they can, considering they’re still in charge of keeping things running smoothly back in the city and making sure my father is kept in the dark as to where I am.

As far as he knows, I’m dead, killed in the crossfire.

Tristan has promised that I’ll never have to go back. I really am living a new life, my dream life, in the arms of this one man.

And today’s the day, my wedding day, when we’re going to make our vows and commit to each other eternally.

Nothing could make me happier.

The wedding is not an elaborate affair. I wanted something small, in the backyard of the mansion. There are fountains and swans in the gardens back there, and I couldn’t think of a more ideal location.

“Well, Baby, are you ready?” Thelma asks.

I look at her honestly and say, “I really am. I’m ready for my future. Nothing can hold me back from this man.”

“Good, because he’s waiting for you.”

I check my reflection one final time, then I think of him and how big this moment is before letting Thelma lead me to the backyard.

People are playing harps in the garden, and the sun is shining. Benny and Merc are there and so are the few friends we’ve made in Vienna so far.

I look down at my feet, not wanting to miss a step and as soon as I look up, I lock eyes with him. In that moment, the heat rises within my belly. Electricity and sparks fly between us just like they did the very first time we met.

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