The Perfect Duchess (Completed)

Chapter 14. 1796 

Over the next month, James and Camille prepared everything for their wedding. The guest list was finalized at 300 people, the venue was going to be the gardens at Remington Hall, and the reception was going to be in the ballroom. There was going to be a five course meal, as well as several different drinks of either wine champagne port and brandy. Every last detail was put to perfection.
And that included Camille's wedding gown. It was fit for a duchess. It was composed of cream velvet with ivory lace adorning the sweetheart neckline and off the shoulder sleeves. The bodice was fixed with iridescent crystals that went down to the waist. Small embroidered roses flowed throughout the skirt. The back of the gown was composed of a corset, and the train stretched out 8 feet behind her. There was also a pair of matching cream velvet gloves with lace trim and a cloak.
On a chilly but clear morning towards the beginning of February, Camille was awakened by Genevieve Felicity and Louisa. She couldn't believe that it was her wedding day, the day that she and James would become husband and wife. Climbing out of bed, she was bathed, perfumed, and helped into her gown. Her hair was fixed into an elegant side bun with curls dancing along her left shoulder, as well as diamonds decorating the top of her head.
Felicity. "You look gorgeous Camille! I can't believe you're going to be married!"
Louisa. "I can't believe Felicity and I get to be your ladies in waiting!"
Camille smiled at her best friends. It had been decided a week prior that Louisa and Felicity would be serving her instead of Genevieve. The queen had been more than happy to make that accommodation. She gave them both a tight squeeze. "I'm so fortunate to have the two of you as my ladies."
Genevieve. "And I am so fortunate to have the three of you in my life."
The four of them giggled as they made their way into the carriage that would take them to Remington Hall. They knew that the wedding of the future Duke and Duchess of York was going to be anything but ordinary. It was going to be quite a grand affair.
***
Arriving to her future home half an hour later, Camille felt butterflies dancing in her belly. She couldn't believe that she was going to be marrying the love of her life. James brought so much happiness to her heart, and she brought the same amount of happiness to his heart. She knew that they were perfect for one another.
Genevieve smiled at her friend, hugging her tightly. "Are you ready?"
Camille smiled back. "I've never been more ready."
Carefully stepping out of the carriage, the four of them walked through the gates leading into the Remington Hall garden. The garden was filled with various flowers. There were roses, lilies and daffodils, gardenias and violets, and hyacinth. The day was cold but clear, and perfect for a wedding.
Camille felt her heart skip a few beats as she noticed James waiting for her at the makeshift altar that was composed of red white and pink roses. She couldn't help noticing how handsome her husband was, wearing a dashing three-piece suit of white velvet with a cream button up shirt cravat and black boots. His eyes sparkled as she came closer, and she felt her insides swirl with the promise of pleasure that night.
Once everyone was seated, the presiding vicar turned his attention to the group of guests. "Dearly beloved, we gather here today to witness the union of James Arthur Remington, the Duke of York, to Camille Marie Eau Claire. May the two of them have an everlasting union of love health and happiness."
Everyone smiled at the couple as they stood before the vicar. They had a feeling the union was going to be one of love and nothing and nothing less. A marriage of convenience wasn't on the cards for the two of them.
The Vicker turned his attention to James. "Do you take this woman to be your wife?"
James smiled brilliantly. "I do."
The vicar turned his eyes to Camille. "Do you take this man to be your husband?"
Camille was beaming from ear to ear. "I do."
The Vicker turned his attention back to the gathered guests. "If there is anyone who wishes to object to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace."
No one spoke a word. No one had any objections.
The Vicker cleared his throat. "Then by the power given to me by the Holy Spirit, I pronounce you husband and wife."
James and Camille exchanged a passionate but sweet kiss as their wedding guests burst into applause. At last, they were together. No one was going to tear them apart.
James. "Je t'aime ma belle rose."
Camille smiled at him tenderly. "Je t'aime ma cherie."
Kissing quickly once more, the newlywed couple escorted their wedding guests to the ballroom for the dinner and reception.