The Girl in the gilded cage (A Tom Hiddleston story)

Wedding

  
   2 weeks later
   *Malina*
The circus is alive with vibrant colors and the echo of distant laughter, the air filled with the smell of popcorn and the faint whispers of joy from the excited patrons. But today, the main attraction is not under the big top. Today, it is me, Malina, standing in the center ring, about to marry the love of my life, Tom.

The makeshift aisle is adorned with wildflowers, their subtle fragrance mingling with the scent of sawdust. As I take a deep breath, I can feel my heart pounding in my chest. My father, Mr. Lupei, sits proudly in his wheelchair beside me, his eyes glistening with pride and love. He holds my hand tightly, whispering, "You look beautiful, Malina. Your mother would be so proud."

I smile at him, my heart swelling with gratitude and love. "Thank you, Papa," I whisper back. I am so happy he has changed his mind about Tom.

As the music begins... a soft, melodic tune played by the circus band... my father wheels me forward. The crowd of circus folk and Tom's family stand on either side, their faces beaming with anticipation.

At the end of the aisle stands Tom, looking dashing in his tuxedo, like a true Hollywood star, his eyes locked on mine. His smile is warm and inviting, a beacon of comfort in this whirlwind of emotions.

Mr. Herlihy, the flamboyant ringmaster, stands with his usual theatrical flair, a bright red coat and a top hat perched jauntily on his head. He raises his hands to quiet the crowd, his voice booming, "Ladies and gentlemen, and all those in between, we gather here today to witness the union of two souls destined for greatness!"

I reach Tom, and my father gently places my hand into his. "Take care of her," my father says, his voice filled with both command and love.

"As long as I live," Tom replies sincerely.

Mr. Herlihy continues with the ceremony, his gestures grand and his words both poetic and heartfelt. "Malina and Tom, your love is as magical as the wonders we create here each day. Do you promise to cherish, protect, and love one another through the highs and lows, the applause and the silence?"

"I do," Tom says, his voice steady and filled with emotion.

"I do," I echo, my heart full.

As Mr. Herlihy pronounces us husband and wife, the crowd erupts into cheers. Tom leans in, kissing me gently, yet with a promise of forever in that simple gesture.

I glance at Tom's family, their smiles warm and welcoming, and then at my father, who is clapping joyfully. Amidst this happiness, I choose not to dwell on my sister and her betrayal. Today is about new beginnings and the love Tom and I share.

The circus lights twinkle above us as we turn to face our family and friends, ready to step into our new life together. The world is our stage, and I know that with Tom by my side, we will create a beautiful, magical act... one filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

*Tom*
The night sky is a canvas of sparkling stars as Malina and I sway gently to the soft music playing from the circus band. The air is cool and refreshing, filled with the laughter and chatter of our family and friends who have gathered here to celebrate with us.

My heart is full, and I can't remember a time when I've felt happier or more complete. I almost can't believe she is now my wife.

Malina looks up at me, her eyes reflecting the dazzling lights above. "What about your career, Tom?" she asks softly, her voice tinged with curiosity. "You're a famous actor after all. What happens now?"

I smile, pulling her closer, feeling the warmth of her body against mine. "You mean so much more to me than any role or movie ever could," I tell her sincerely. "I'll stay here in the circus with you as long as you want me to. Hollywood can wait."

Her eyes light up, and a mischievous smile plays on her lips. "Maybe," she whispers, "I want to see what Hollywood is all about. Besides, I can't really be up on a high wire with a big pregnant belly."

Her words take a moment to sink in, and then my heart skips a beat. "Are you really pregnant?" I ask, a mixture of disbelief and joy in my voice.

She nods, a radiant smile spreading across her face. "Yes, Tom, I am."

A wave of happiness washes over me, and I can't contain my joy. I lift her off her feet, spinning her around as the realization settles in. We're going to be parents. The thought fills me with an indescribable warmth and excitement.

I lower her gently back to the ground and kiss her deeply, feeling the overwhelming love we share in that simple gesture. Around us, our friends and family cheer, their voices a joyful chorus celebrating our love and our future together.

The world seems to fade away, leaving just the two of us under the vast, starry sky. In this moment, everything feels perfect, and I know that no matter where we go... whether it's the circus or Hollywood... we'll face it together, hand in hand, heart in heart.