Loyalty Divided

Chapter Forty Seven

The sun was shining brightly overhead, casting a golden hue over the picturesque landscape. The meadow was in full bloom, vibrant flowers swaying gently in the breeze. Evangeline stood in the center of it all, dressed in a flowing white gown, the delicate lace brushing against her skin. The scent of wildflowers filled the air, mingling with the faint, sweet aroma of freshly baked bread from the nearby farmhouse.

She turned, her heart fluttering as she saw Benjamin standing at the altar. He looked dashing in his suit, a soft smile playing on his lips. His eyes shone with love and promise, the same look that had captured her heart years ago. The guests, faces both familiar and distant, were seated on wooden benches, all eyes on the bride and groom.

Evangeline walked towards him, her heart swelling with joy. Every step she took felt like a step towards a dream realized. When she reached Benjamin, he took her hands in his, his touch warm and reassuring. The officiant's words were a blur, the details of the ceremony melting away as she focused on the man before her.

As they exchanged vows, Evangeline felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes. Benjamin's voice was steady, filled with emotion, each word a testament to their love and the life they were about to build together.

"From the moment I met you, I knew my life had changed forever," Benjamin began, his voice steady and filled with conviction. "You are my best friend, my confidante, my love. I promise to stand by you, to support you, to cherish every moment we share. I vow to protect you, to provide for you, and to be the man you can rely on, no matter what life throws our way. I love you, Evangeline, with all my heart, and I am so grateful to have you as my wife."

When it was her turn, she spoke from the heart, her voice trembling with happiness and certainty. "Benjamin, you have been my rock, my safe haven, and my greatest adventure. With you, I have found a love that is kind, patient, and unwavering. I promise to be your partner, your friend, your biggest supporter. I vow to love you through all of life's highs and lows, to laugh with you, to cry with you, and to grow old with you. You are my heart, my home, and my everything. I love you more than words can say, and I am honored to become your wife."

"You may kiss the bride," the officiant finally declared.

Benjamin leaned in, his lips brushing against hers. The kiss was soft, tender, everything she had ever dreamed of. But as she pulled back, something felt different. The warmth of Benjamin's lips faded, replaced by a strange sense of familiarity.

Evangeline opened her eyes, her breath catching in her throat. Benjamin was gone. In his place stood Arthur, his blue eyes filled with a mixture of longing and sorrow. She stumbled back, confusion and a rush of emotions flooding her senses.

Arthur reached out, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "Eva..." he whispered, his voice laden with unspoken feelings.

Evangeline's heart pounded in her chest. The vibrant colors of the meadow seemed to blur, the dreamlike quality of the scene intensifying. She couldn't tear her gaze away from Arthur, the man who had been both her past and her unresolved future.

Panic surged through her, her breath quickening. "Ben!" she called out, her voice echoing in the surreal landscape. "Ben, where are you?"

She turned and began to run, her white gown flowing behind her like a ghostly trail. The meadow seemed endless, the flowers and trees blurring into a kaleidoscope of colors. Her feet felt heavy, as if the earth itself was trying to hold her back. "Ben!" she screamed again, desperation in her voice. "Please, Ben!"

But there was no answer. Only the silent, watching presence of Arthur, his eyes filled with unspoken words. The weight of his gaze was almost unbearable, pulling her back even as she tried to flee. Tears streamed down her face, mingling with the sweat of her exertion.