Sophia’s POV“Yes, Elijah,” I had said, my voice breaking as tears of joy fell down my cheeks. “Yes, I’ll marry you.”The days since that tearful, blissful moment felt like I was floating on cloud nine, unable to come down. Even in the middle of a busy workday, my mind kept drifting back to that magical night on the yacht. I frequently glanced at the shimmering diamond ring on my finger, a constant reminder of how unbelievably wonderful everything was.I sat at my desk, momentarily pausing in the midst of the design I was working on. The office was scuttling with a new kind of energy—everyone seemed to be celebrating our engagement. The congratulations and teasing had become a regular part of my workday. It was as if my personal joy had become a shared experience, and I loved every bit of it. Just then, my thoughts drifted to Daniel. I wished more than anything that I could share this happiness with him. Daniel had been such a big part of my life, and it hurt to know that he was now
Elijah’s POVThe heavy oak doors creaked open as Sophia and I stepped into the ballroom, and my breath caught in my throat.The room was straight out of a fairy tale, with its high ceilings soaring overhead, adorned with intricate gold trimmings that gleamed under the warm light of grand chandeliers. The floor-to-ceiling windows lined one side of the room, their old-school glass panes framing the view outside like a living portrait, while the light streaming in bathed the space in a soft, golden hue.“Wow,” Sophia whispered, her voice filled with awe. She took a few steps forward, her eyes wide as she took in every detail. “It’s like… a ballroom inside a castle.”I couldn’t help but smile as I watched her. The wonder in her eyes made my heart swell, and in that moment, I could suddenly picture us right there, in the center of the room, sharing our first dance as husband and wife. The image was so vivid, it was almost as if I could feel her in my arms, swaying slowly to the music.“It’
Sophia’s POVWeeks had flown by in a frenzy of wedding preparations and work commitments, and I was more than ready for a little break.I found myself at the Bakers' home, sinking into the comfortable familiarity of their living room, the scent of freshly baked cake lingering in the air. Chris sat across from me, a satisfied grin on his face. “I spoke to my florist and event stylist friend,” he began excitedly. “He’s agreed to handle the wedding. Trust me, Soph, he’ll transform the venue into something magical. You won’t recognize it.”I couldn’t help but smile at his enthusiasm. “That sounds amazing, Chris. I mean, the venue’s already spectacular but this is a fantastic bonus. Thank you!”“Anytime! Anything for you and Elijah, of course.” Mr. Baker, who had been quietly sipping his tea, set his cup down and looked at me with a warm expression. "You know, I’ve got a former classmate who runs a photo-video coverage business now. We went ahead and reserved the date for you. He’s the b
Sophia’s POVIt’s time, I thought, smoothing down the flowy skirt of my wedding gown, feeling my heart beating hard against my chest. The big day is finally here. I could hear the soft, melodic strains of the violin as the door slowly opened, and it felt as if time itself was holding its breath. I stood on the threshold, peeking through the ornate wooden doors of the historic ballroom, my heart pounding like a drum. The music changed, flowing from the classical notes of the violin into the tender, resonant tones of Lila’s voice. Her singing, delicate and evocative, wove through the air like a gentle caress.Everything inside the ballroom was a dream come to life—flowers cascading in every hue imaginable, candles flickering in a symphony of light, and chandeliers dripping with crystals that shimmered like stars. With each deliberate step toward the front, I let my radiant smile shine brightly. The gasps, and claps of the crowd faded into the distance, eclipsed by the rhythmic poundi
Chris’s POVI watched with amusement as Emily, a pretty woman with flowing brown hair, took another generous bite of my mother’s cake. Her eyes fluttered closed in bliss, and she murmured, “This is oh so heavenly.”Kayla, seated beside her, grinned from ear to ear. “Isn’t it just the best? Sophia and Chris’s mom baked it.”Emily looked up, her expression a blend of delight and surprise. “Oh, really? Please thank her for me. I could eat this all day.”As she gazed into my eyes, I found myself feeling enamored by her presence. Kayla chuckled, then turned to me, her eyes sparkling. “Chris, I just realized, you two haven’t met yet. Emily, this is Chris. Chris, meet Emily.”I was glad for the introduction. Dinner had been going on for a while, and as much as I enjoyed the company of the people around the table, Emily had been a particularly intriguing presence. With the meal wrapping up and everyone else drifting off to mingle or fetch drinks, I seized the chance.Emily extended her hand
Emily’s POV“Alright, ladies and gentlemen, it’s party time!” the emcee’s voice finally announced after the entire program was done. A wave of cheers and applause erupted from the crowd as the mood of the celebration shifted. The live band took the stage, filling the room with upbeat, danceable tunes, while strobing lights began to flash, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.I couldn't help but smile as I glanced at the newlyweds. Sophia and Elijah twirled on the dance floor, their daughter Reese nestled between them, laughing as they danced in unison. I shook my head in disbelief. Their love story was like something from a romance novel, and yet here it was, unfolding before my eyes.I can’t imagine ever getting back with Antoine. But Sophia felt the same way years ago, and now, here they are. My hand instinctively moved to my belly, a small, secretive gesture that no one would notice. I wondered if I’d ever let Antoine be part of this baby’s life. I guess only time will tell. J
Elijah’s POVI stood near the edge of the historic ballroom, my gaze fixed on Sophia as she moved gracefully among the remaining guests.Sophia was surrounded by her family—her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Baker, and her grandparents, Evelyn and George. She dazzled with her glowing beauty, her smile lighting up the room as she laughed at something her dad had said. It was a sight that filled me with indescribable joy.I couldn't believe how lucky I was to have her back in my life, to be standing here with her, savoring this second chance. The evening had been nothing short of magical, and seeing her so happy, so in her element, was all I could have hoped for.“Hey, Elijah, you look lost in thought,” Trevis’s voice cut through my reverie. I turned to find him standing beside me with a concerned look. “Everything alright, man?”“I’m just taking it all in,” I said, gesturing to the lively scene. “It’s hard to believe this is really happening.”Trevis followed my gaze and nodded. “Sophia looks i
Chris’s POVThe hallway was beginning to fill up with people as the party wound down, leaving behind a trail of disheveled glamor and laughter.Emily stood by the exit, her hands trembling as she hastily wiped at her tears. Her mascara had smeared, creating dark streaks down her cheeks. I could see the distress in her eyes and the effort she was making to pull herself together.“Emily, let’s get out of here,” I said, gently taking her arm. “Come with me.”She looked at me, her eyes red and swollen. “Chris, I—I don’t think I can—”“Just trust me,” I urged.We walked briskly down the hall, the muffled sounds of the party fading behind us. I guided her through a side door and as we reached the stairwell, I took her hand, leading her up to the rooftop. The security guards had long since left, and the area was supposed to be off-limits. But who cares? I just had to get her out of there fast. When we got there, Emily looked around, her breath coming in shallow gasps. She looked a bit conf