Darkest Desires [Joel Miller]

Alternative epilogue

One year later

I looked at myself in the mirror, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves coursing through my veins. My wedding gown, adorned with delicate lace and flowing fabric, draped elegantly around me, and I couldn't help but smile at the reflection staring back at me. The only thing missing was the flower bouquet.

"Daisy, it's me, open the door,"I heard Sarah, knocking gently on the door.

I opened the door for Sarah, smiling at her. She handed me the missing flower bouquet and I sighed. Everything seemed to be okay now.

"Oh, thank you,"I said, taking the missing bouquet. "Is everything okay? Nothing is missing or wrong?"

Sarah smiled. "Yes, everything is okay. Don't worry."

"How can I not worry? It's our big day. Sarah, I'm getting married."

"To my dad,"she teased, nudging me playfully. "I still can't believe you fucked my dad. Of all people."

My relationship with Sarah has gotten better within a year. It wasn't easy but we were almost back to where we used to be. She agreed to be my bridesmaid and I felt relieved. I couldn't have done this without her. And my mom, even though she lived far away with dad, she still did everything she could.

I rolled my eyes. "You don't have to say it like that."

"Sorry, I couldn't resist teasing you,"Sarah chuckled, nudging my shoulder. "But if I'm serious... I'm actually happy for the both of you."

"I'm glad you're here,"I take her hand, smiling at her. "I couldn't have done this without you."

"I wouldn't miss it. My dad is happier than I've seen him since my mom left."

"Is he really?"I asked, with a surprised tone in my voice.

"Of course. Even though it was unusual at first to see you together, I can see you're both happy."

Sarah's words warmed my heart, easing the nerves that lingered in me. A sense of gratitude washed over me and I was grateful for her support. After everything that went down, it meant a lot. Just as I was about to express my gratefulness to her, I heard another knock on the door.

"Darling? Are you ready?" My dad stepped inside, smiling at us.

"Yeah, I'm ready, dad,"I answered, taking a last look in the mirror.

"You look absolutely stunning, by the way,"Sarah commented before leaving the room.

Dad smiled, looking at me. "I agree with her. You look absolutely stunning."

"Thanks, dad."

Dad stepped closer, his eyes filled with pride and affection as he took in my appearance. "You're all grown up now, Daisy. It feels like just yesterday you were my little girl, and now you're getting married."

I felt a lump form in my throat at his words, a rush of emotions flooding through me. "I'll always be your little girl, dad," I said softly, reaching out to hug him tightly.

He returned the embrace, holding me close for a moment before pulling back to look at me with a smile. "I couldn't be happier for you, Daisy. Joel is a good man, and I know he'll take care of you."

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I nodded, feeling overwhelmed by my father's love and support. "Thank you, dad. For everything."

As my father and I made our way down the aisle, the music swelled, signaling the start of the ceremony. Joel looked extremely handsome in his suit, waiting for me at the altar with a smile. As I reached the end of the aisle, Joel took my hand into his, ready to say "I do" and continue our journey as husband and wife.