Page 29 of An Earl Most Inconvenient (Regency Mishaps #2)
EPILOGUE
“ D oesn’t everything look beautiful!” Evie said a little breathlessly, as she and Nathaniel entered the grand hall of Blackbrook Manor. The space was adorned with flowers, ribbons, and glimmering chandeliers, transformed into a breathtaking venue for Tristan and Diana’s wedding. The air buzzed with excitement and the sweet scent of blooming roses and lilies, filling the space with a sense of joy and anticipation. Friends and family had gathered from near and far, all there to witness the union of the couple whose love story had captivated them.
“I am so glad that you are here,” Tristan said, embracing Nathaniel and kissing Evie on the cheek. “I had been worried that you would not make it back in time from your travels.”
Nathaniel smiled. “We would not have missed it for the world.” He looked Tristan up and down. “Look at you, all grown up and ready to take the plunge!” he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “I must say, Tristan, you clean up well. I almost didn’t recognize you.”
Tristan laughed, his nerves easing in the familiar company. “And you, Nathaniel, look as dapper as ever. I trust your travels didn’t dull your charm?”
“Never!” Nathaniel replied, flashing a grin. “Evie and I have been too busy making memories to worry about such things. Speaking of memories, do you remember the time we tried to climb that tree in your garden?”
Tristan chuckled, shaking his head. “I still remember how you both fell and landed in the rose bushes. I thought you’d ruined the flowers!”
“Only the ones we fell on,” Nathaniel said with a wink. “I’m glad to see the roses survived, but I think we should have a tree-climbing contest after the wedding breakfast. What do you say, Tristan?”
Tristan raised an eyebrow, grinning. “I’m in. But only if Evie agrees to join us.”
Evie rolled her eyes playfully. “I’ll pass on the tree climbing, thank you very much. I prefer to keep my feet on the ground and my dress clean! And I suspect that your new bride will feel the same!”
As the laughter subsided, Tristan caught sight of Grace standing nearby, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. He made his way towards her, a smile tugging at his lips. “Grace! You look very well. I am glad to see you.”
“Thank you, Tristan!” she beamed. “I am so pleased that today is finally here, and I know that you and Diana are going to be very happy together.”
Tristan smiled, relieved that there was no awkwardness between them. Diana had been right, of course, as she was right about almost everything; Grace had not been at all upset at the news of their engagement, and in fact she had helped Diana to plan every detail of their wedding day.
Tristan chuckled. “I never thought I’d see the day when I’d be marrying the woman of my dreams. It feels surreal.” He smiled a little wryly at his own words. For such a long time, he had only ever imagined that his wedding would be a marriage of convenience, and here he was, about to make Diana his wife, a woman who he loved with all his heart. He could not quite believe how lucky he was.”
Grace grinned playfully, nudging him with her elbow. “Well, let’s hope you don’t trip over your own feet during the ceremony. I wouldn’t want to have to rescue you in front of everyone!”
“Don’t worry,” he replied, grinning. “I’ll make sure to keep my balance - especially with you watching.”
“Good! I’ll be watching carefully!” she joked, her laughter infectious.
As the atmosphere buzzed around him, Tristan took a moment to appreciate the warmth and camaraderie among their friends and family. He felt a sense of gratitude for their support, realizing how fortunate he was to have such love surrounding him. He took a deep breath and tried to steady his nerves. It was time for the ceremony, the moment when Diana would become his wife.
The ceremony was set to take place in the small church on the edge of the estate. The guests began to make their way through the gardens towards the church, the soft murmur of voices mingling with the rustle of leaves and the gentle chirping of birds. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the scene, creating a picturesque backdrop that felt almost ethereal.
Diana stood at the doorway, the cool breeze floating through the open doors. She wore a gown of ivory silk, adorned with delicate lace and tiny pearls that shimmered in the sunlight. Her hair was elegantly styled, and a bouquet of white lilies and roses rested in her hands, the colors matching the decor inside the church.
As guests took their seats on either side of the aisle, Diana looked at her father, who was standing next to her, tall and proud. He wore a solemn expression, a mix of pride and emotion washing over his features. She felt her heart swell with love for him, knowing how much he had supported her throughout her life, even though he had not always shown it in a conventional way.
Tristan stood at the altar, his heart racing as he waited for Diana to approach. He looked dashing in a tailored suit, his dark hair brushed back, and his eyes shining with anticipation. As he caught a glimpse of her, his breath caught in his throat. She was radiant, a vision of beauty that took his breath away.
As the music began to play, Jerome took her arm, and Diana took her first step down the aisle, the soft petals of the flower girl’s trail preceding her. The guests turned to admire her, and whispers of admiration filled the air. Tristan felt a smile break across his face as he watched her approach, his heart swelling with love and anticipation.
Diana’s heart raced as she walked toward Tristan, her eyes locked onto his. Every step felt like a journey toward forever, and as she reached the altar, she could see the love reflected in his gaze. He held out his hand, and she took it, feeling a rush of warmth and security wash over her.
“Dearly beloved,” began the vicar, a kind and gentle man who had known Diana’s family for years. “We are gathered here today to witness the union of Lord Tristan Everton and Lady Diana Kingsman in holy matrimony.”
The ceremony flowed smoothly, filled with heartfelt vows and promises that resonated deeply with everyone present. Each word spoken felt like an echo of their love story, a testament to the bond they had forged through trials and triumphs.
As they exchanged rings, a hush fell over the crowd, each guest feeling the weight of the moment. The vicar smiled warmly as he pronounced them husband and wife, and Tristan leaned in, capturing Diana’s lips in a kiss that sealed their vows.
As they walked back down the aisle hand in hand, Diana felt a rush of joy and excitement. Every face she passed was filled with love and happiness, and she couldn’t help but smile at the overwhelming support surrounding them.
Once they reached the garden, the guests began to gather for the wedding breakfast, tables adorned with fresh flowers and elegant table settings. Tristan and Diana mingled among their family and friends, laughter and joy echoing around them.
“Look! There’s Nathaniel and Evie!” Diana exclaimed, pointing towards them as they approached. “I am so happy that they could be here to celebrate with us.”
“Congratulations!” Nathaniel said, pulling them both into a warm embrace. “You two are a sight for sore eyes. I can hardly believe you’re married!”
Evie nodded, her eyes glistening with happiness. “You both look so deeply in love. It’s beautiful to witness.”
“Thank you,” Tristan replied, his heart swelling at their words. “We’re so grateful to have you here to celebrate with us.”
As the festivities continued, Diana found herself swept into conversations, her heart full as she watched Tristan interact with his family and friends. It warmed her to see how easily he connected with those he loved, sharing laughter and stories that made her smile.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the garden, Tristan took Diana’s hand, leading her away from the crowd. “Come with me,” he said, his voice low and inviting. “I want to show you something.”
“Where are we going?” Diana asked, curiosity piqued.
“To our special spot,” he replied, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I thought we could steal a quiet moment together.”
They made their way through the garden, the soft glow of lanterns illuminating their path. As they reached a secluded area surrounded by blooming flowers and soft grass, Diana felt her heart race with anticipation.
“Here we are,” Tristan said, turning to face her. “Just us.”
Diana’s breath caught in her throat as she took in the beauty of their surroundings. “It’s perfect,” she whispered, feeling the magic of the moment envelop them.
Tristan stepped closer, his fingers intertwining with hers. “I wanted to take a moment to reflect on everything we’ve shared and everything that lies ahead.”
Diana looked up at him, her heart swelling with love. “I can hardly believe today has finally come. It feels like a dream.”
“It’s a dream I never want to wake up from,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “You’ve changed my life in ways I never thought possible, Diana. I want to spend every moment cherishing you.”
She felt tears prick at her eyes, overwhelmed by the depth of his words. “You’ve brought so much joy into my life, Tristan. I’ve never felt more loved or cherished. I promise to be your partner in everything.”
He leaned in closer, his forehead resting against hers. “Together, we will face whatever life throws our way. I promise to always support you and love you fiercely.”
With that, he captured her lips with his, their kiss deepening as the world around them faded away. It was a kiss filled with passion and promise, sealing their vows as husband and wife. The warmth of the moment enveloped them, and they lost themselves in each other, their hearts entwined.
When they finally pulled away, Diana felt breathless, her heart racing. “I love you, Tristan,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.
“And I love you, Diana,” he replied, a smile breaking across his face. “Forever.”
As they stood together, the world around them seemed to fade, leaving only the two of them in their sanctuary of love. In that moment, they knew they were ready to embrace their future together, side by side, heart to heart.
The End?