Beneath the Veil of Shadows

Epilogue

The late afternoon sun bathed the garden in a golden glow, casting a warm brilliance over the rows of white chairs adorned with satin bows. The sound of a violin filled the air, its melody soft and enchanting, creating a serene yet anticipatory atmosphere. The venue was breathtaking, with cascading white roses and eucalyptus garlands draped over a wooden arch at the end of the aisle. Behind it, the sea stretched endlessly, its gentle waves echoing the promises of forever.

Sapphire’s bridal suite buzzed with energy. Rachel and Sofia adjusted their mauve bridesmaid dresses, their smiles reflecting a mix of excitement and pride. Sapphire stood before the ornate mirror, her breath hitching as she took in her reflection. Her dress was a masterpiece—an off-shoulder, lace gown with a fitted bodice that flared into a dreamy tulle skirt. Tiny pearls sewn into the fabric glimmered subtly with each movement. Her dark hair was styled in soft waves, pinned back with a delicate comb of crystal leaves.

“You look like a dream,” Sofia whispered, her eyes misting.

“You are stunning, Sapph,” Rachel added, her voice warm with affection.

Sapphire swallowed hard, a cocktail of emotions swirling in her chest. Today was a day she never imagined in her wildest dreams. A day she feared and hoped for in equal measure. She turned to them, her voice trembling. “I am scared.”

Rachel placed a hand on her shoulder. “Scared of what? Elias loves you more than anything. He would die for you, Sapphire.”

“And live for you,” Sofia added softly.

Sapphire’s lips curved into a small smile, their words soothing her nerves. “Thank you. Both of you.”

A soft knock interrupted them. Ezra stepped inside, dressed in a sharp black tuxedo. His presence exuded quiet strength, but his eyes shimmered with a tenderness reserved only for Sapphire.

“It is time,” he said, extending his arm.

Sapphire took a deep breath, looping her arm through Ezra’s. As they walked out, she whispered, “Thank you for this, Ezra. For everything.”

He stopped and looked at her, his voice gruff with emotion. “You are family, Sapphire. And today, you are gaining someone who will protect and love you as fiercely as you deserve.”

Her eyes watered, but she blinked rapidly, unwilling to smudge her carefully applied makeup

The chatter ceased as the first chords of the wedding march played. All eyes turned to the entrance, and there stood Sapphire, radiance personified. Murmurs of admiration rippled through the crowd as she began her walk down the aisle, Ezra steady by her side.

But as Sapphire stepped closer, the faint melody of a piano drifted through the garden, blending seamlessly with the violin. Elias froze. It was that song—the one he had played the night he first opened up to Sapphire about his sister. The hauntingly beautiful notes carried memories of loss, vulnerability, and the fragile hope Sapphire had unknowingly reignited within him.

Elias’s throat tightened, and he blinked rapidly, fighting the sting of tears. As Sapphire approached, her eyes softened, immediately noticing the emotional weight in his gaze.

When Sapphire reached the altar, Ezra lifted her veil and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. “Go be happy,” he whispered.

Elias stepped forward, his hands trembling slightly as they reached for hers. The tears he had tried to suppress escaped, trailing down his cheeks. “Thank you for this, love. You are breathtaking,”

Sapphire’s heart ached at the sight. Without hesitation, she clutched his hand tightly and raised her other to gently wipe his tears away. “I am here,” she whispered, her voice steady but brimming with love. “Always.”