"Mobbed by Matrimony" (wlw)

Chapter 32: For Real

"I missed you."

Sophia uttered as she lied down to the empty bed, longing for the warmth of her lover.

"I missed you too, Sophia. But I still don't get why we agreed to this ridiculous plan with Julia."

Alex replied from the other end of the line, irritation clear in her voice as she lay on Julia's couch.

"Well, you can't see your bride the night before the wedding, Alex! So, zip it, or I might just shoot you."

Julia teased, her tone playful but firm.

Sophia chuckled softly, amused by the banter between the cousins.

"I guess I'll see you at the aisle tomorrow, then."

Sophia said, her voice filled with anticipation.

"I'll be there," Alex teased back, "and don't you dare be late."

The Van Leeuw Manor's garden is an enchanting scene, set amidst meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. An elegant white aisle leads to a floral-draped arch, framed by lush greenery. Guests sit in white chairs adorned with satin ribbons, while delicate fairy lights and lanterns begin to glow as twilight falls. The reception area features long tables draped in white linens and adorned with crystal centerpieces, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere.

The gentle hum of live music from a string quartet fills the air, blending seamlessly with the sounds of nature. As night falls, the garden transforms into a magical setting, with the soft glow of lanterns casting a romantic ambiance over the festivities.

To the left of the garden entrance, Sophia captivates in an elegant white wedding dress with a seductive edge. The gown boasts a fitted bodice with a daring plunging neckline and a sleek, floor-length skirt that gracefully highlights her curves. Subtle lace embellishments and a dramatic open back infuse the dress with sophistication and irresistible allure.

Meanwhile to the right side, Alex is aided by Julia. Alex wears an exquisite dress in luxurious black fabric, showcasing a daring plunging neckline and a thigh-high slit. Intricate lace and striking metallic accents enhance its sophistication, exuding both authority and a rebellious edge.

As the string quartet began to play, the covers on both sides of the entrance were lifted, revealing both brides. Alex and Sophia, finally reunited, were captivated by each other's appearance as they started down the center. With shared smiles and held hands, they gracefully walked together towards the altar, radiating elegance and joy.

"Have both of you prepared your wedding vows this time?"

The same priest who had officiated their first wedding inquired with a knowing smile.

"Yes!"

Sophia replied brightly, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"You did?"

Alex asked, her voice tinged with a hint of panic as she realized she wasn't prepared.

Sophia nodded as the priest handed her the microphone. Alex, catching her gaze, nodded back with an amused smile.

"Alex, you are always so stubborn," Sophia began, her voice steady as the guests chuckled softly.

"But I can't get you out of my system. You're sometimes mean and cold, yet deep down, you have the softest, warmest heart I've ever seen. You are dangerous, but in your arms, I've felt the safest. They say love always knows when to appear and who to bring into our lives, but I never saw you coming. Despite that, you were the first person who made me feel both wildly unsure and unwaveringly certain. The scariest part about falling for you was not knowing what I was doing, yet understanding exactly why I had to. You make me feel whole in a way I never have before, and that terrifies me. But what scares me even more is the thought of losing you. I love you, Alex."

Alex was deeply moved and momentarily speechless upon hearing Sophia's vow. Although unprepared, she knew she had to speak from the heart. Taking a deep breath, she grasped the microphone and began—

"Sophia, growing up, I had a different idea of what love meant. I only used to love making people afraid, in coldly staring them down; in wielding knives and inflicting pain. I loved seeing the fear in people's eyes as they begged for mercy but that suddenly changed when I met you. I've learned that love is someone who sees that harsh side of you and still chooses to love you. Someone who makes things happen for you when you can't, someone who holds you and calms you down as tears pour out of your eyes, it's someone voicing out the good things about you when all you see is bad, it's someone who makes sure you're okay, it's someone who thinks about you every night and every single day, it's someone who's constantly pouring themselves into you, that's what love is. And that is what you are to me, Sophia. I love you."

Sophia couldn't help but tear up as she listened to Alex's heartfelt vow, deeply moved by the sincerity and emotion in her words.

As the wedding ceremony concluded, the priest smiled warmly and said,

"I now pronounce you legally married partners in heart and mind, in body and soul, in love and in life. You may now kiss your bride."

The entire crowd erupted in cheers, their voices filling the garden with jubilant noise. Alex gently cupped Sophia's face in her hands and mouthed the words, "I love you," which Sophia echoed in return. Their faces drew close until their lips finally met, sealing their romantic union with a kiss. In that moment, a profound silence enveloped them, the roar of the crowd fading as Alex and Sophia shared a long, passionate kiss, lost in their own world of love.

As their lips finally parted, Sophia leaned in and whispered in Alex's ear, "You are legally mine now—for real."

It was a play on the words Alex had used during their first wedding, but this time with a deeper, more genuine meaning. Alex chuckled, touched by the clever reversal, and admired how Sophia had turned the sentiment into a joyful affirmation of their commitment.