world we created, paul lahote

Chapter 34

Lucia sat on a plush stool in front of the elegant vanity mirror, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. The warm glow of the room's soft lighting enveloped her, casting a gentle radiance on her delicate features adorned in light makeup. Her heart wouldn't stand fluttering in her chest and the knot of nerves in her stomach pulled tighter as her time to walk down the aisle approached. Nervous didn't even begin to describe how she felt. Knowing multiple eyes would be staring her down as she made her way to Paul made her want to throw up.

Lauren must've taken notice of her expression and placed he'd hands on Lucia's shoulders, an encouraging smile present on her face. "There is nothing to be nervous about, Lucy. All you need to do is focus on Paul and nothing else."

"There are so many people here," Lucia whispered, her eyebrows drawn together, her lip slipping between her teeth. Emily waddled over, her hand resting on her prominent bump as she held Lucia's gown in hand, finally noticing the tense moment taking place. "What if I fall."

"You won't." Emily shot her a firm look, one that grounded her in the moment. "There is nothing for you to worry about, Lucia. Just focus on Pauk and the world will fall away."

Lucia didn't respond as she focused on her reflection, her cousin-in-law masterfully stuking her hair. Her espresso-coloured waves had been expertly styled into an elegant updo, the soft curls cascading down her neck. Her eyes darted to her face, taking in how her cheeks had a soft, rosy glow, and her lips were adorned with a subtle hint of colour. She looked beautiful though she felt like a whirlwind of emotions at the moment.

Just focus on Paul, she murmured to herself over and over in her head. She stood from her seat and gracefully slipped into the gown with Lauren's assistance, feeling the weight of the fabric settle around her like a cloud. The dress cinched at the waist before flaring out towards her ankles, creating a truly enchanting silhouette. With delicate precision, Lauren fastened the buttons along the back, ensuring a perfect fit.

Taking a moment to admire herself in the full body mirror, Lucia's eyes widened in awe. The gown exuded a timeless elegance, the white hue illuminating her tan complexion. With a smile of satisfaction, Lucia turned her attention to her heels. They were closed-toe and white, perfectly complementing the pristine beauty of her gown. She slipped her feet into the elegant heels, feeling the subtle elevation and added poise they brought. As she stood tall in front of the mirror, her reflection showcased a bride ready to embrace her fairytale wedding.

She approached the aisle paying little to no mind as her friends walked down the aisle before her. Her hand rested in the crook of Charlie's elbow, the older man looking down at her concerned. She was fidgety and extremely nervous from the looks of it. He squeezed her hand and she looked up to him in the same way a child would their parent, seeking guidance from them.

"You have nothing to worry about, Lucia. I won't let you fall," Charlie reassured her, and she sent a smile his way, which he returned with a gruff one of his own. The soft, melodic strains of the wedding march filled the air, creating a magical ambience that seemed to envelop them. As they made their way down the aisle, the guests turned to admire Lucia's ethereal beauty, their faces beaming with joy and awe.

Lucia's heart beat violently in her chest, and she had worried that it would thump right out of her chest at that moment. She watched her step for a moment in an attempt to avoid the many eyes directed her way. But, once she lifted her gaze and caught sight of the man whom she would soon call her husband, the world around her fell away. All noise was muffled to her ears as she approached him, her grip tightening on her bouquet. Behind the delicate veil that covered her face, tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over.

He looked oh so handsome in his tux and she couldn't believe that he was hers. She beamed at him, and he returned that same smile tenfold; his eyes, usually filled with mischief and laughter, now brimmed with tears. He couldn't seem to look away from her, his soon-to-be wife looking nothing short of an angel that had descended from heaven. She looked breathtakingly beautiful.