The estate was transformed into a breathtaking wedding wonderland. The rain earlier in the day had left the air fresh and crisp, and the soft golden sunlight now bathed everything in a dreamy glow. Guests were seated on rows of white chairs adorned with delicate emerald-green ribbons that swayed gently in the breeze.
A canopy of twinkling fairy lights stretched above the aisle, creating a magical atmosphere. The aisle itself was lined with ivory petals, leading up to a wooden arch wrapped in lush greenery and cream-colored roses. Candles flickered in tall glass holders, adding a warm, romantic touch to the setting.
Avery stood inside the bridal suite, peeking out the window as the guests settled into their seats. Her heart fluttered with excitement and nerves. She glanced at Janice, who was making last-minute adjustments to her veil.
“Jan, it’s perfect,” Avery said softly, her voice filled with awe.
“Of course it’s perfect,” Janice replied, giving her a playful wink. “You wouldn’t expect anything less from me, would you?”
Avery laughed, the sound light and carefree. “No, I wouldn’t.”
Inside the suite, Clara bustled about, making sure everything was in place. She handed Avery her bouquet—a stunning arrangement of white peonies, cream roses, and sprigs of eucalyptus wrapped in a silk ribbon.
“Here you go, Ms. Deveraux,” Clara said, smiling warmly. “You’re officially the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.”
Avery took the bouquet, her hands trembling slightly. “Thank you, Clara. For everything.”
Clara nodded, her cheeks pink with pride.
Janice stepped back, taking a moment to admire Avery. The lace gown fit her perfectly, with a sweetheart neckline and intricate beading that caught the light just right. The train flowed elegantly behind her, and the veil framed her face, giving her an almost ethereal glow.
“You look like you walked straight out of a fairy tale,” Janice said, her voice uncharacteristically soft.
Avery blinked back tears, her lips curving into a smile. “Don’t make me cry, Jan. I can’t ruin my makeup.”
From her vantage point, Avery could see the guests chatting and smiling, the atmosphere filled with excitement. Sunny, their golden retriever, sat obediently at the end of the aisle, wearing a small wreath of flowers around her neck. Baby Elliot, dressed in his adorable navy-blue vest and bow tie, was perched in Clara’s arms, ready to make his entrance.
Avery’s father, Theo, entered the suite, his face lighting up as he saw her. “Avery,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “You look… absolutely stunning.”
“Thanks, Dad,” Avery said, stepping toward him. “Are you ready to walk me down the aisle?”
Theo chuckled, though his eyes glistened with tears. “I think the real question is: Are you ready?”
Avery took a deep breath, nodding. “I am. More than ever.”