Chapter 17

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February 14, 2008

As the blindfold gently covered my eyes, I couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in my chest. Draco's warm hand clasped mine, guiding me forward. I trusted him completely, but the anticipation was almost too much to bear. We've been together for a year and a half, and yet he still managed to surprise me.

"Where are you taking me?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"You'll see," he replied, his voice filled with mischief.

We walked for what felt like an eternity, Draco's touch soothing and familiar. I could hear birds chirping in the distance and the gentle rustle of leaves beneath our feet. It was a beautiful day, I could tell.

Finally, Draco came to a stop. "Okay, Sofia, we're here."

He carefully untied the blindfold, and as I blinked away the darkness, I found myself standing on a grassy field overlooking a breathtaking view. The sun painted the sky with hues of pink and orange, casting a golden glow over the landscape. In front of me, a blanket was spread out, adorned with my favorite flowers. It was a picture-perfect picnic spot.

My jaw dropped in awe. "Draco, this is incredible!"

He beamed, clearly pleased with himself. "I wanted to do something special for you, Sofia. And I know how much you love picnics."

I couldn't resist poking a bit of fun at him. "So, you actually can be a bit of a romantic after all!"

He laughed, his eyes sparkling. "Only for you, my love."

We settled down on the blanket, surrounded by an array of delicious foods and drinks. Draco had thought of everything. There were sandwiches, fresh fruits, and a bottle of our favorite wine. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect meal.

We laughed and talked, enjoying each other's company. The warmth of the sun caressed our skin, and the gentle breeze played with our hair. Time seemed to stand still as we reveled in the simple joy of being together.

After we had our fill, Draco suggested we take a little walk. Hand in hand, we strolled through the field, the grass tickling our bare feet. The world felt like it belonged to just the two of us at that moment.

As we reached the crest of a small hill, Draco came to a stop. My heart skipped a beat. His expression turned serious, and he took both my hands in his.

"Sofia Marie Mikaelson," he began, his voice filled with emotion. "From the moment we first met, I knew I was in love with you. You are my best friend, the mother of my beautiful children, and the love of my life. I cannot envision a single day without you by my side."

Tears welled up in my eyes, my heart swelling with love for this incredible man.

"Will you do me the honor of making me the happiest man alive and marry me?"

Before I could even form words, our children and close family emerged from their hiding spots, clapping and cheering with excitement. I was overwhelmed with joy, knowing that our loved ones were here to witness this special moment.

"Yes!" I finally managed to say, my voice filled with pure happiness. "Yes, Draco, a thousand times yes!"

We embraced, our laughter and tears blending. Our family surrounded us, showering us with love and congratulations. It was a moment I would cherish forever.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over our celebration, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the love that had brought us here. With Draco by my side and our loved ones cheering us on, I knew that this was just the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

•••

August 8, 2008 ♾️

As I stood in front of the full-length mirror, adorned in my exquisite white wedding gown, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness pulsating through my veins. Today was the day I would marry Draco, the love of my life, and embark on a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. But as the minutes ticked away, I could feel the jitters intensify within me.

Hermione, my ever-reliable best friend and maid of honor, approached me with a serene smile. Her presence alone had a calming effect on me. "Sofia, take a deep breath. You look absolutely stunning," she reassured, adjusting a stray lock of hair behind my ear. "Everything is going to be perfect."

Ginny, Luna, and Angelina, my bridesmaids, chimed in enthusiastically, helping to alleviate my pre-wedding jitters. They had been my pillars of support throughout the entire planning process, ensuring that every detail was meticulously attended to. From choosing the floral arrangements to coordinating the seating chart, they had been there every step of the way.

Luna, with her whimsical nature, handed me a delicate bouquet, a vibrant assortment of my favorite blooms. "These flowers are a symbol of love and beauty, just like your heart," she whispered, her dreamy eyes twinkling with joy.

Ginny, her fiery red hair cascading down her shoulders, placed a hand on my trembling one. "Sofia, remember that today is about celebrating your love. Let go of any worries and savor every moment," she advised with a reassuring squeeze.

Angelina, the vivacious athlete, laced up the back of my gown with deft fingers. "You've got this, Sofia. You and Draco are meant to be. Nothing can stand in the way of true love," she affirmed, her voice brimming with confidence.

"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart," I said, my voice trembling with emotion. "I can't begin to express my appreciation for all that you have done for me." Hermione squeezed my hand gently. "You deserve all the joy and love that life has to offer, Sofia."

As the music started playing, Hermione and the bridesmaids began walking down the aisle, their smiles radiant. My heart swelled with pride as I watched them, knowing they were paving the way for me to start this new chapter of my life.

Then, it was time for my 9-year-old twins, Atlas and Stella, to make their appearance as the flower girl and ring bearer. They looked adorable in their wedding attire, their excitement was palpable. Tears welled up in my eyes as I watched my children make their way down the aisle, scattering petals and holding the precious rings.

Finally, the moment came. I took a deep breath, clinging to my father's arm, and stepped forward. The aisle felt impossibly long, my heart pounding against my chest. All eyes were on me, but I only had eyes for Draco, standing tall and handsome at the altar.

As I reached Draco's side, a profound sense of peace washed over me. We exchanged a knowing smile, and the world around us seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us.

Draco began to speak his vows, his voice filled with love and sincerity. "Sofia, from the moment I saw you, I knew you were the one. We were just sixteen, sneaking out past curfew, looking at the night sky in the astronomy tower. From that moment, I knew I wanted to spend forever and always with you."

My heart soared as Draco's words echoed through the air. I could hardly believe that we had come so far since those magical nights at Hogwarts. Our love had endured countless challenges, and now we were standing here, ready to commit our lives to each other.

Tears of joy streamed down my face as I took Draco's hands in mine. "Draco, you are my rock, my best friend, and my soulmate. I promise to love you fiercely, to support you in all that you do, and to walk by your side through every adventure and every storm. Forever and always."

As the words left my lips, a collective sigh filled the air. The love and devotion that radiated between Draco and me were palpable, touching the hearts of everyone present.

The ceremony continued, filled with laughter, tears, and heartfelt promises. And as we exchanged rings, sealing our commitment, a wave of pure happiness washed over me. I knew that this was just the beginning of our extraordinary journey together.

Walking back down the aisle as husband and wife, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I was surrounded by the love and support of my friends and family, embarking on a new chapter with the man I loved deeply.

My wedding day was a celebration of love, a day filled with joy and cherished memories. As the night sky twinkled above us, I held Draco's hand tightly, knowing that our love would continue to shine brightly, just like the stars that had witnessed our love story unfold.

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