His name was Nathaniel

107

The months leading up to the wedding had been a whirlwind.

Every major publication had something to say about the event of the year—if not the decade. The headlines ranged from romantic to dramatic:

"The Donovan Heir Finally Settles Down—Inside Nathaniel and Adaliya's Fairytale Love Story"
"From Different Worlds to Soulmates: A Relationship That Defied Expectations"
"A Modern-Day Cinderella? How Adaliya Captured the Heart of One of America's Most Eligible Bachelors"

Despite the media circus, Nathaniel and Adaliya had remained true to themselves. Their love had been tested, broken, and rebuilt. And now, after years of fighting for what they had, they were finally standing at the finish line—together.

Perhaps the biggest surprise leading up to the wedding was how, after all the tension, their families had finally come together.

Adaliya's mother, once so opposed to their relationship, had softened over the years. She had seen the way Nathaniel cared for her daughter, how he supported her dreams rather than overshadowing them. It hadn't been an easy journey, but in the end, love had proven itself stronger than status. Adaliya's grandparents, who had always been warm toward Nathaniel, now treated him as one of their own, fussing over him in the same way they did Adaliya.

Nathaniel's grandfather had long since given his approval, but even Edward Donovan, the man who had once tried to control Nathaniel's every move, had come around. It wasn't an emotional confession or an open apology, but over time, Nathaniel noticed the way his father had started treating Adaliya with more respect. Perhaps Edward had realized that this wasn't a phase, nor was it something he could dictate. His son had chosen love over legacy, and instead of fighting it, he had finally accepted it.

The ceremony was nothing short of breathtaking.

The venue was a private estate by the coast, a place Nathaniel had secretly purchased months before proposing. It overlooked the endless blue sea, with a floral-adorned aisle leading to an open arch where they would say their vows. The guest list was exclusive—only close friends, family, and a few select figures from both their personal and professional lives.

Adaliya stood in front of the mirror, her wedding dress flowing around her like a dream. It was elegant, timeless, with intricate lace detailing and a delicate train. She barely recognized herself, and for once, it wasn't because of the dress or the makeup—it was because she was happy.

Lola stood beside her, holding back tears. "You're actually getting married," she sniffed. "I still remember when you used to call me, ranting about how Nathaniel was the most frustrating man alive."

Adaliya laughed, adjusting the diamond earrings Nathaniel had gifted her. "He still is."

Lola grinned. "Yeah, but now he's your frustrating man."

The doors to the bridal suite opened, and Adaliya's father stepped in. For a moment, he just looked at her, his expression unreadable. Then, his eyes softened.

"You look stunning," he said quietly.

Adaliya swallowed the lump in her throat. "Thanks, Dad."

For years, their relationship had been strained. But today, as he held out his arm for her to take, she felt like she was once again his little girl—the one he had carried on his shoulders, the one he had taught how to ride a bike, the one he had always protected.

"Ready?" he asked.

She nodded.

And then, the doors to the ceremony opened.

Nathaniel at the Altar

Nathaniel had always been composed under pressure, but today, his hands were slightly clenched, his jaw tight. It wasn't nerves. It wasn't doubt. It was the overwhelming weight of everything this day meant.

Then, the music started, and when he looked up—he forgot how to breathe.

Adaliya walked down the aisle with a grace that made time slow down. The sun cast a golden glow around her, the ocean breeze lightly moving her veil. For years, he had loved her. For years, he had imagined this moment. But nothing could have prepared him for the real thing. Nathaniel fought hard to keep his tears at bay.

When she finally reached him, her father placed her hand in Nathaniel's. Their eyes met, and for a moment, it was just them.

"You look..." Nathaniel exhaled. "I don't even have the words."

Adaliya smiled. "That's a first."

The guests chuckled, and even the officiant chuckled before beginning the ceremony.

Nathaniel was the first to speak. He took a deep breath, looking at the woman who had changed his life.

"Adaliya, I have spent years trying to understand what it means to truly be free.

For the longest time, I thought freedom was escaping the Donovan name, running away from everything that tied me to the life I never wanted. But then you came along.

And I realized that freedom isn't about leaving—it's about choosing. And I will always, always choose you.

You have seen me at my worst. You have loved me even when I didn't know how to love myself. You taught me that love is not about control, but about partnership.

And there is no one in this world I would rather walk beside than you. Today, I promise you everything. My loyalty, my strength, my heart—until my last breath, it's yours."

Tears welled in Adaliya's eyes.

Then, it was her turn.

She inhaled shakily before speaking.

"Nathaniel, the first time I met you, I thought you were the weirdest, most impossible  and stubborn person I had ever encountered.

And now, standing here today, I can confirm—you are still the most stubborn, impossible person I have ever encountered.

But you are also the most caring, most loving, and most selfless person I have ever known.

You have given me a love I never knew existed. A love that is patient, a love that is kind, a love that never asks me to be anything other than who I am.

Today, I vow to love you with the same certainty, the same devotion. Through every high and every low, through every challenge we face, I will stand by your side. You are my home, Nathaniel. And I will spend the rest of my life choosing you, again and again."

Nathaniel exhaled sharply, his fingers tightening around hers.

There wasn't a dry eye in the audience.

The officiant smiled. "Nathaniel, do you take Adaliya to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

Nathaniel's voice was firm. "I do."

"Adaliya, do you take Nathaniel to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Adaliya's lips trembled, but her voice was clear. "I do."

The officiant beamed. "Then by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Nathaniel, you may kiss your bride."

Nathaniel didn't waste a second. He pulled her into his arms, kissing her deeply as the crowd erupted into cheers.

This was it.

The ending of one story, and the beginning of another.

As Nathaniel and Adaliya stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, the world faded away.

Because in the end, it had never been about the Donovan name.

It had always been about love.