BUKKY POV
December 5th arrived like a soft, golden promise. The air carried a faint chill, but it was vibrant with warmth, laughter, and anticipation. I had spent weeks preparing for this day, not for perfection or show, but to honor the life I had chosen for myself. For once, the choices were entirely mine, free from guilt, regret, or unspoken tension.
The venue glowed in subtle elegance. Cream-colored drapes framed the high windows of the hall, and soft fairy lights wove through the greenery, casting delicate reflections on polished marble floors. The scent of fresh roses mingled with vanilla candles, creating an intimate, serene atmosphere. My heart fluttered in a way I hadn't felt in months—not anxious, not nervous, just… ready.
I wore a flowing ivory gown, the lace delicate against my skin, accentuating the curves I had come to love. The veil framed my face, softening my features, and as I looked in the mirror, I barely recognized the woman staring back—strong, determined, and radiantly happy.
Demi stood at the end of the aisle, waiting. His tailored suit fit him perfectly, a deep navy that complemented his warm complexion. His hands were slightly clenched at his sides, his posture both poised and tense—an odd mix of excitement and nerves. When his eyes met mine, all the years of hesitation, all the unspoken conversations, and all the late-night confessions felt like they converged in that one heartbeat.
My parents were beside me, smiling, though my mother's eyes glistened with tears. She had fought with her instincts, battled tradition, but ultimately chose to embrace my happiness. Even my father, stern as ever, had softened in the last weeks, seeing the sincerity in Demi's care for me. Their support now made the moment feel complete.
The ceremony began softly. The officiant spoke words of commitment, love, and partnership, but my mind was only on Demi. Every step I took down the aisle felt deliberate, every breath an affirmation: I had chosen love, on my own terms.
Demi reached for my hand as I approached him, and the warmth of his grip sent a shiver down my spine. "You look… stunning," he whispered, his voice low, almost reverent.
"So do you," I replied, my own voice trembling slightly, betraying the depth of my emotion.
As we exchanged vows, I felt the weight of the past—the divorce, the heartache with Akanni, the uncertainty and tension—lifting with each word. "I promise to stand by you, to support you, and to love you with honesty and patience," Demi said, his gaze locked on mine. Every word felt like a promise not just to me, but to the version of myself I had reclaimed through this journey.
When it was my turn, I spoke with confidence, letting go of all fear and regret. "I promise to walk beside you, to share in your triumphs and your struggles, to love you fiercely and without hesitation."
When we exchanged rings, I felt a surge of joy unlike anything before. The simple circle of metal symbolized more than union—it represented healing, choice, and new beginnings.
The moment we were pronounced husband and wife, the room erupted in applause. I glanced at my parents, their smiles radiant and relieved, and at Demi, whose eyes glimmered with pride and love. He leaned down, brushing a soft kiss across my lips, and I felt an entire chapter of my life close as a new one began.
After the ceremony, the reception was intimate but vibrant. The tables were adorned with white and gold linens, crystal glasses catching the light like tiny stars. My friends, colleagues, and family mingled freely, laughter blending with soft music. Demi and I moved through the crowd hand in hand, receiving congratulations, sharing smiles, and occasionally stealing a quiet glance at each other that said more than words ever could.
Later, in a private moment on the balcony, Demi wrapped me in his arms. The city lights stretched before us, sparkling like a thousand promises. "We made it," he murmured, his cheek resting against my hair.
"Yes," I whispered, feeling tears of relief and happiness. "We really did."
And in that moment, I realized that happiness wasn't just about wealth, status, or approval. It was about truth, choice, and being with someone who truly saw you—and chose to stay.
As December 5th ended, I held Demi's hand tightly, letting go of the past completely. Akanni was a chapter that had taught me about love, loss, and resilience. Demi was the present—a love I had consciously chosen, nurtured, and embraced.
For the first time in a long while, my heart felt wholly free.