The Selection: Third Generation

Epilogue: The Wedding

My hands shake as I fasten the last button on Sissy's sage green dress. Her long hair is in a braid down her back with little curls popping out along her neck and face. She looks precious. As soon as I am done, she runs off again, playing with Carlisle's little cousin, Erik. I stand back up and try to smooth out my already-perfect dress. I take in a slow, deep breath and let it out loudly.

"Hey, it's okay to be nervous, but you're looking a little green at this point," Diana says, coming over and rubbing soothing circles on my shoulder. I smile and let out a little, half-hearted giggle. Today is finally the day, my wedding day. I have been engaged to Carlisle for a little over six months, and finally, get to marry him. I know I should not be nervous, but it can't be helped. For the first time in six months, the entire country and a live audience will have all eyes on me again.

"I know, I am okay. No getting sick, I promise." Puke on this dress would be a crime. It is the most beautiful, regal wedding dress I have ever seen.

"Good," she says, a calm smile on her face. Diana wears a lavender dress similar in style to Sissy's and the other bridesmaids. She, however, is in lavender instead of sage since she is my maid of honor. Her red hair is in a gorgeous curled style. I watched as the hairstylist did it, and was amazed. She basically tucked all of Diana's curls through a braid on the back of her head. The braid is not even visible now and the results are flawless. 

"Okay, ladies. Line up! It's show time." Sophia yells from her place by the doors leading out to the gardens. The groomsmen and bridesmaids line up in order, Sissy and Erik in the front as flower girl and ring bearer. Sophia works hard to keep them quiet and in place. My dad steps up to take my arm, handing me my bouquet of white roses and lavendar. He kisses me on the cheek as the doors open and Sissy walks out, her excitement evident in her every step.

"You look beautiful, sweetheart." 

"Thanks, Daddy. I'm just ready to be his wife and for the fun part to start." I say, smiling up at my handsome father. He looks as fancy as I have ever seen him in his tailored suit.

"The fun part? Would you be talking about the reception? Or the honeymoon?" He asks, nudging me a little as we step forward. I laugh loudly, earning a look from Sophia.

"The reception, Dad. I just want to dance and drink, and have fun!"

We step forward again and the last of the bridesmaids and groomsmen walkout. I count to ten in my head and Sophia gestures for us to go. All of my nerves are prickling, making me focus on every step I take. 

As we walk out into the gardens, all eyes are on us. And there are plenty of them, let me tell you. Queen Hazel insisted enough attendees to match my elegant taste for my wedding. We round the corner and start the walk up the actual aisle before I see him. He stands at the end, in awe, with tears running down his face. I cannot help but smile at the sight of him. I let my dad lead me as Carlisle becomes my sole focus.

When we finally make it to the end, Dad kisses my cheek and passes my hand off to Carlisle. He gives him a tight hug, whispering to him to take care of his baby girl, and then takes his seat in the front row. I step up into my spot and hand off my bouquet so I can take Carlisle's other hand.

"You look beautiful," he whispers, his voice giving away that he is still in awe of me. He brings one hand up to his lips, kissing it gently. His green eyes are sparkling. I do not think I have seen him look so happy. I can see in his face that he has waited for this as excitedly and impatiently as I had been.

"You look handsome." My voice cracks when I return the compliment. He really does look amazing in his Prince's uniform. He sparkles with the medals across his chest and I smile to myself. It has been a long time since I first saw him in this uniform since the photoshoot for that magazine.

"Dearly Beloved," the priest starts. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the holy matrimony of Prince Carlisle Schreave and Miss Arabella Williamson."

Here's to happily ever after, right?