untamed hearts

CHAPTER 17 : WEDDING BELLS AND WHISPERS

The weeks following Riley's proposal were a whirlwind of activity. Between work, family drama, and planning their wedding, Riley and Jax found themselves constantly on the go. Yet, through it all, their love remained a steady anchor.

The Planning Begins

Jax took the lead in planning the wedding, much to Riley's amusement. "You're designing your own wedding look, aren't you?" she teased one evening as he sketched ideas in his notebook.

"Of course," Jax replied, grinning. "I mean, it's not every day you marry a playgirl-turned-romantic alpha. We need to make a statement."

Riley laughed, watching him work. She loved how he poured his heart into everything he did. "I don't care what we wear or how the venue looks, as long as it's you waiting for me at the altar."

Jax paused, his cheeks flushing. "You're not supposed to make me cry this early, Riley."

Family Dynamics

Despite Riley's triumph over her father's ultimatum, tension still simmered. Her father had yet to offer his blessing, and her mother remained distant. But Riley found solace in the unwavering support of her brother Ethan and her friends, who rallied around her and Jax.

Meanwhile, Jax's family was ecstatic. His mother, though initially skeptical of Riley, had grown to adore her. "You've got your hands full with that one," she told Jax during a visit. "But I can see how much she loves you. That's all I've ever wanted for you."

The Bachelorette Party

Mia and Noah insisted on throwing Riley a bachelorette party, which turned into a hilariously chaotic night. Riley wasn't one for wild parties, but Mia's energy was infectious.

"Come on, Riley!" Mia shouted over the music at a rooftop bar. "You're getting married! Live a little!"

Riley rolled her eyes but smiled. "Fine, but if I wake up tomorrow regretting this, I'm blaming you."

By the end of the night, Riley was tipsy but happy, surrounded by the people who meant the most to her.

Jax's Private Moment

While Riley celebrated, Jax found himself sitting alone in their apartment, reflecting on how far they'd come. He glanced at his ring, a small smile forming on his lips.

"I never thought someone like her could love someone like me," he whispered to himself.

Just then, Riley stumbled through the door, giggling. "Jax! I'm home!"

He couldn't help but laugh as she kicked off her heels and flopped onto the couch beside him. "Had fun?"

"The best," she said, leaning her head on his shoulder. "But I missed you."

Jax kissed her forehead, his heart full. "I missed you too."

The Night Before the Wedding

The night before the wedding, Riley and Jax decided to stick to tradition and spend it apart.

Riley stayed at a hotel with Mia and Ethan, who kept her company. "Nervous?" Ethan asked as they lounged in the suite.

"A little," Riley admitted. "But mostly excited. I've never been more sure about anything."

Meanwhile, Jax spent the evening with Noah, who tried to distract him with board games and jokes. "Relax, man," Noah said. "She's crazy about you. Tomorrow's going to be perfect."

Jax smiled, his nerves easing. "I know. I just want to do right by her."

The Wedding Day

The big day arrived, and the venue—a lush garden filled with blooming flowers—was breathtaking. Jax's design flair was evident in every detail, from the elegant décor to the stylish outfits for the bridal party.

As Riley stood at the end of the aisle, her heart raced. Jax looked stunning in a tailored suit that perfectly complemented his sassy charm. His eyes met hers, and the world seemed to fade away.

When Riley reached him, she took his hands, her voice steady. "You ready?"

"Always," Jax replied, his smile radiant.

The ceremony was intimate and heartfelt, with laughter and tears shared by everyone present. When the officiant pronounced them married, Riley didn't wait—she pulled Jax into a passionate kiss, earning cheers and applause.

The First Dance

Their first dance as a married couple was to a song Jax had chosen, its lyrics capturing their journey perfectly. As they swayed together, Jax whispered, "This is just the beginning."

Riley smiled, her eyes shining. "And I can't wait for the rest."

As the night wore on and the celebration continued, Riley and Jax couldn't stop stealing glances at each other, both knowing they had found something truly extraordinary. Their love was the kind that defied expectations, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected pairings create the strongest bonds.