Eyes Don't Lie | Charles Leclerc

Epilogue 2

The Leclerc's 
October 2024

Aria stood before the grand mirror, taking it all in. It felt like she was seeing herself for the first time. Her wedding gown was a simple yet elegant pattern of white satin, with intricate beading she had custom made in Italy. She took in a deep breath, savoring this moment, trying to hold on to it as the nerves and excitement swelled within her.

Pascale stepped up behind her, her hands coming to rest gently on Aria's shoulders. Aria's heart softened at the sight of Charles' mother. Pascale's eyes were filled with emotion, her voice soft and tender as she whispered, "You are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen, Aria. Charles is so lucky."

Those words were like a hug for her soul, and Aria felt her own eyes getting wet. "Thank you, Pascale. For everything." She swallowed, her voice barely a whisper. "I know my mom isn't here, but...I'm so grateful that you and the family have taken me in as one of your own."

Pascale's arms wrapped around her in a warm hug. "We love you, Aria. Today and every day, we'll be here for you." She smiled, brushing away her own tears. "And your mother would be so proud of you."

Around her, her bridesmaids stood in a circle, each of them glowing with excitement and joy. Kika, Luisa, Mia, Daniella, Charlotte, and Carla...friends who had become sisters, each one an important part of her journey. They were all dressed in soft, pastel gowns, their faces shining as they took in the sight of their friend dressed for the biggest day of her life.

"You look breathtaking, Aria," Kika said, stepping forward, her voice filled with warmth. "Charles is going to be speechless."

"Completely," Luisa added with a grin, adjusting one of Aria's veil edges that had slightly moved out of place. "I'll be shocked if he doesn't cry."

Mia laughed, her arm linking through Daniella's as they both looked at Aria with admiration. "Oh, he will. There's no way he's not going to lose it when he sees you."

Daniella gave a teasing wink. "I think the entire chapel might be in tears."

Charlotte, with her gentle and steady presence, rested a hand on Aria's shoulder. "This is your moment, Aria. You're stunning, and you deserve every bit of happiness coming your way."

Carla leaned in, squeezing Aria's hand. "Just remember to breathe," she said with a playful smile. "And if you need to cry, we'll be right there with the tissues."

Aria couldn't help but laugh, feeling the nervous energy lighten as her friends surrounded her with their love and laughter. She took a deep breath, her reflection smiling back at her with a kind of radiant joy she'd never seen before. 

She did feel beautiful, not just because of the dress, but because of everything and everyone who had brought her to this moment. The memory of her mother was bittersweet, a gentle ache mixed with warmth and gratitude. She missed her every day, but she knew her mother's love had helped shape the woman she was today.

Pascale's gentle hand found hers again and they shared a look of unspoken understanding. Aria's heart swelled with gratitude for this new family she was joining. The Leclercs had wrapped her in their love, giving her a second family and filling some of the spaces her mother's absence had left.

With her bridesmaids offering her final touch ups and encouraging words, she allowed herself to close her eyes, letting the love around her sink in. This was her wedding day, the day she would walk down the aisle toward Charles, the man who had become her partner, her confidant, her best friend. A man who loved her completely and who she loved more deeply than she ever thought possible.

"Ready, Aria?" Pascale asked softly.

Aria opened her eyes, looking at her reflection one last time. She could feel every heartbeat, every breath, every ounce of love and anticipation coursing through her. She looked at each of her friends and then at Pascale.