Six months later…
The church bells rang sweet and clear, their melody drifting into the crisp afternoon air. Inside the grand cathedral, sunlight streamed through tall stained-glass windows, casting a rainbow of colors across rows of family, friends, business associates and loved ones.
The air was heavy with the fragrance of roses and lilies, a delicate blend that seemed to whisper of love, and of hope reborn.
At the front, Stefan stood tall in a perfectly tailored suit, though his hands trembled slightly at his sides. It was his wedding day and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't help being nervous. He swallowed hard, his heart thundering in his chest.
Beside him, Ethan placed a hand on his shoulder, steadying him with the kind of quiet strength only a best friend could offer.
"She won't run away," Ethan whispered, and Stefan chuckled slightly.
"I know she won't but I just can't help it," he whispered back.
