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So no, I don’t vow to protect you. I vow to destroy anything that tries to harm you.

You are my religion.

And I will worship you until the day that I fucking die.

Tears sting my eyes at his raw confession of love. I know he means every word. He slides the band onto my finger to complete the ceremony.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.”

He leans into me cupping my face with his hand as he whispers against my lips, “It’s about fucking time.”

He crashes his mouth to mine as if no one exists around us. We are suspended in this moment, floating through space, never wanting to feel the weight of the earth again.

Our kiss breaks, and the guests stand to cheer.

“I now introduce to you for the first time, Mr. & Mrs. Voss!”

We walk down the aisle and head straight for the cabin. I know my man will want to see what I am wearing beneath this dress sooner or later.I’d rather not risk him ruining my wedding dress. After all, I hope one day to have a daughter that I can show it to.

* * *

Evelyn

I slip into my evening gown as I make my way to the reception. Dante looks so handsome, he has that post orgasm afterglow, as I like to call it.

We enter the tent, and everyone stands around talking. I know a few people have already left due to travel. My father is one of them. I know he hates to be here without Mom. It was hard for all of us.

I stride over to Lucien.

“Hey, is Astra around?”

“She practically darted immediately after the ceremony.”

My shoulders slump. If there is one thing I wanted, it was to hang out with my bestie like old times.

I stroll over to Dante as he mingles with a few friends. He passes me a glass of champagne with a wink. I give him a fake curtsy and take my glass, sauntering off to the girls who linger.

My phone buzzes in my clutch. Astra.

I know I don’t deserve your help… but if you’re reading this, I’m already gone.

Don’t look for me.

Please don’t.

I’m so proud of you, Ev.

XOXO

Astra

I call her immediately.

Nothing.

I rush up to Lucien, and panic settles in my chest.

“Hey, read this.”