Souls Through Time (EzioxOC/DesmondxOC)

Chapter 22 - Amelia

The air held a quiet warmth on the morning of their wedding, as if the world itself had softened in anticipation. Inside the Assassin's hideout—a place that had come to mean home—Amelia stood in a small, stone chamber, preparing herself with Claudia's help. She ran her hands over the dress's soft fabric, feeling the weight and significance of the day settle around her. Though it was simple, the dress Claudia had crafted carried a beauty that made her feel whole, the soft fabric flowing around her in gentle waves, catching the light in soft folds that seemed to mirror her own journey to this moment.

Claudia smiled, adjusting a delicate piece of lace near her shoulder. "There," she murmured, stepping back to admire her work. "You look beautiful, Amelia."

Amelia looked at herself in the small mirror Claudia held up, her breath catching. Her reflection revealed a woman who had weathered trials, heartbreak, and loss, but whose eyes now held something more—peace, hope, and love. She nodded, giving Claudia's hand a grateful squeeze, her heart swelling with the weight of all she'd found in this new life.

"Thank you, Claudia," she whispered, voice thick with emotion. "For everything."

They shared a brief hug, one that filled the quiet room with a warmth Amelia knew she'd never forget. Claudia's arms were strong around her, a grounding presence as if silently reminding her of the strength she'd shown and the family she had gained.

Claudia drew back, brushing a tear from the corner of her own eye. "It's funny. I always knew you were meant for my brother." She smiled, a little teary-eyed. "Now, it's time for him to see what he's been waiting for."

Amelia chuckled softly, the joy and nerves bubbling up in her chest. With a final squeeze of Claudia's hand, she took a steadying breath, ready to take her first steps toward the future she and Ezio had dreamed of together. She gave Claudia a nod, and they made their way to the main hall.

The moment she stepped into the room, a hush fell over the gathering. She could see the faces of those who had come to stand with them, all watching her with quiet pride and affection. Ezio's mother, Maria, stood near him with a gentle smile, her face lit with pride as she clasped her hands over her heart. Pettrucio, his youngest brother, and Claudia stood nearby, their smiles echoing the same warmth and happiness. The Assassins who had been able to attend filled the space, their expressions reflecting a shared joy and respect, a tribute to the love and resilience that had brought her and Ezio to this day.

And then, there was Ezio. Her heart skipped as she took him in, and a laugh bubbled up, light and full of affection. He was dressed in his Assassin's uniform, the familiar hood framing his face, the white and red fabric a stark contrast against the solemn stone walls. He'd dressed for duty, she realized, but the soft smile on his face told her he had dressed for her too. She could see a small white flower tucked carefully into his lapel, the delicate petals a tender contrast to the dark steel of his hidden blades. He looked both formidable and boyish, a blend of the man she had come to love and the warrior who had promised to protect her.

Ezio caught her smile, his own widening as he held out his hand. She walked toward him, her steps steady, each one feeling like a victory. As she reached him, she took his hand, his fingers warm and strong around hers. For a moment, they simply looked at each other, the noise of the room fading away as if they were the only two people in the world.

"Really, Ezio," she murmured, her voice teasing but filled with warmth. "Even on our wedding day, you come as an Assassin?"

He chuckled, a quiet, deep sound. "And if there is any trouble today, I'll be ready for it."

She laughed, shaking her head, but there was something comforting in the sight. This was the man who had held her together through her darkest moments, whose fierce loyalty had become her anchor, whose steadiness had given her room to heal. Today, they stood together not as broken people, but as partners ready to face whatever lay ahead.