Soft morning light slipped through the curtains, painting golden patterns across the room. Isabella woke slowly, realizing she was still wrapped in Elijah's arms. His hold around her was firm, protective, as if he was afraid to let her go even in sleep.
For a moment, she simply watched him — the calm rise and fall of his chest, the softened lines of his face. He looked peaceful. Human. Not the intimidating, controlled man she had first met.
Her heart beat faster. The realization struck gently, but deeply.She was falling in love with him.Not all at once. Not like a fairytale. More like a quiet unfolding that had begun long before she noticed.
Elijah stirred, his hand sliding to her waist as he woke. His eyes opened, dark and warm at the edges when they met hers.
"Good morning," he murmured, voice low from sleep.
Isabella nodded, her voice barely steady. "Good morning."
He studied her face for a long moment, then brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "How are you feeling?"
"Nervous," she admitted. "But… not in a bad way."
A small smile appeared on his lips, slow and sincere. "I am glad."He kissed her forehead again, gentle, grounding.
A knock came at the door.Her attendant's voice followed.
"My lady, preparations are ready."
Elijah exhaled, his hand lingering at her cheek. "I will see you soon. No matter what today brings, you are not alone."
His words settled deep inside her chest.
Isabella dressed in a private dressing room with the help of maids. Layers of silk. Lace trailing like mist. Her hair pinned with delicate pearl accents.When she finally saw herself in the mirror, she barely recognized the girl staring back. She looked older. Calmer.Braver.
Her hands trembled slightly.
Just then, the door opened softly.Her father stepped in.
He froze when he saw her, emotion tightening his features."My little girl," he whispered.Isabella swallowed hard. She had blamed him, resented him, cried over decisions he made. Yet here he was, trying to be gentle, as if he knew what this cost her.
He took her hand carefully. "I hope… I hope this life brings you happiness."
She nodded. No accusations. No anger. Not today. "Thank you."
The ceremony hall awaited.Soft music floated through the corridors as she walked, her heart pounding.
When the doors opened, she saw Elijah at the altar, standing tall, waiting for her.His eyes met hers instantly.Not possessive. Not commanding.Present.Steady.Softened just for her.
As she moved toward him, step by slow step, she felt the trembling inside her settle.The world was large and uncertain.But Elijah's gaze held her, guiding her forward.
When she reached him, he took her hands, warm and sure.
"You are breathtaking," he whispered so only she could hear.
Her breath caught.Her fingers tightened around his.
In that moment, among flowers, music, and murmured breaths of the crowd, Isabella realized something unexpected.
She wanted this.Not because she had to.Not because it was arranged.
Because it was him.