Chapter 13: Wedding Day

Angeline was allowed to go home. Her condition was gradually improving, but she still needed to rest. Therefore, Bryan sent all the servants to help Angeline with complete rest. Even the wedding preparations were done at home; Angeline was not allowed to leave the house. Three days had passed and today was the wedding day. Angeline was much better and in good health. She was dressed in her wedding gown and waited in the bridal waiting room with nervous excitement. Her face was adorned with the typical bridal makeup that made Angeline look like a queen. Her flowing hair didn't hide her collarbones. The wedding dress was a combination of white and gold, which suited Angeline perfectly. As the wedding approached, Angeline began to feel lonely. There were no relatives, no mother to support her. Even though she knew that this marriage wasn't for love but for business, she still wished that her mother could be with her at this moment. When the reception was over, Angeline returned to her room and sat on the edge of her bed, contemplating her decision to proceed with this marriage for her and her brother Michael's future. She was filled with fear and doubt, but she also knew it was a step she had to take. The next morning, Angeline awoke early to get ready. Bryan had meticulously arranged everything, including the wedding dress and the entire ceremony. When Angeline looked in the mirror, she saw her white and gold wedding dress, which looked stunning on her. Her makeup was flawless and she looked like a princess. But at that moment, Angeline felt lonely. There were no siblings, no mother to give her blessing and support. She was alone in her wedding dress, preparing for a marriage that should have brought happiness but instead left her feeling isolated. When an event organizer informed her that the ceremony would start soon, Angeline took a deep breath and tried to gather her strength and courage. She knew this was a necessary step, even though her emotions were in turmoil. She would go through with this marriage as a contractual obligation, hoping that everything would go according to plan. Inside the wedding hall, all the guests had arrived. The executives and important clients were seated in the chairs provided. The MC was reading the schedule of events and welcoming the attendees. Bryan was ready at the front, and shortly after, Angeline arrived and stood by Bryan's side. She appeared nervous and tense. Bryan glanced at her for a moment, noticing her nervousness. He offered his arm, and Angeline turned to loop her arm through his. "Smile, at least you should look happy today," Bryan whispered as the doors opened. "We invite the bride and groom to enter and walk to the altar," the MC announced. Angeline smiled widely, aware that many eyes were on them. Her heart was racing with nervousness, but she tried to appear genuinely happy. Among all the guests, there was one familiar face. Standing with a sincere smile, Grandma caught Angeline's eye. She stood up and clapped for both Angeline and Bryan as they walked together towards the altar. The guests also welcomed them with joy, taken aback by the couple's striking beauty. Silently, Bryan glanced at Angeline, who looked genuinely happy. Her happiness was not fake; it was evident in her beaming smile. This made Bryan smile involuntarily, feeling happiness himself. Grandma noticed; their hearts had truly connected. A brief and unexpected encounter had brought their hearts together. When they reached the altar, they stood before the priest and began their vows. "Brother Bryan Wilson, are you willing to marry Angeline Felicia, to accept her as your wife, and to spend the rest of your life with her?" "Yes, I am willing," Bryan answered without hesitation. "Sister Angeline Felicia, are you willing to marry Bryan Wilson, in joy and sorrow, to accept him as your husband, and to spend the rest of your life with him?" Angeline was silent for a moment, her eyes began to well up. She couldn't say something so simple. To her, vows were sacred and not to be taken lightly. She wondered if it was okay to pretend. Would everything be okay if she pretended? Bryan turned to look at Angeline, who remained silent, leaving everyone in the audience puzzled. Even Mrs. Rose wore a sardonic smile as she observed the situation. Angeline was torn, but the thought of her mother recovering and looking healthier made her decision clear. "Yes, I am willing." Angeline's declaration ended the vow session, and the priest asked them to exchange rings and seal their union with a kiss. Angeline turned to Bryan and he did the same. They exchanged awkward glances, both feeling the nervousness again. Bryan reached for the ready rings and held out his hand to take Angeline's. Angeline held out her hand, trembling slightly, and Bryan slipped the wedding band onto her ring finger. The audience erupted in applause and cheers. Then Bryan offered his hand and Angeline placed the ring on his finger, her own hand shaking. As she was about to withdraw her hand, Bryan grabbed it and pulled her closer, causing her to collide with his chest. Bryan looked into Angeline's eyes, which were wide with surprise. Angeline's heart was pounding and she felt every beat in their close proximity. Slowly Bryan leaned in and Angeline was so nervous that she closed her eyes. Frankly, she wasn't ready for this. But Bryan was oblivious to her feelings and surprised her with a quick kiss. Applause and cheers accompanied their kiss. Angeline kept her eyes closed, her emotions a mess. Her heart was beating fast and she accidentally squeezed Bryan's hand, causing him pain and ending the kiss. They were both standing side by side again, facing the guests. Bryan appeared nonchalant, offering a small smile, while Angeline still looked nervous and unable to control her emotions. The wedding ceremony ended with a group photo with the guests present. In less than an hour, the guests began to leave after partaking of the buffet. Angeline smiled politely as she greeted the departing guests. Her heart ached again as she thought of her absent mother. She knew this wasn't a real wedding, but she couldn't deny her feelings of sadness. Her grandmother sensed Angeline's discomfort and decided to approach her. "Angeline, you look absolutely beautiful today," Grandma praised. "Thank you, Grandma. You look beautiful too," Angeline replied. "No more beautiful than the bride." Angeline laughed at Grandma's humor. "Why do you look sad? Do you miss your parents?" Grandma asked, surprising Bryan who was standing nearby. "Of course, but I know how much I miss them. They will never be here," Angeline replied with a sad smile. Grandma hugged Angeline to comfort her, and Bryan remained silent, allowing the two women to embrace. From a distance, Mrs. Rose watched with an unfriendly expression. She had never expected Grandmother to come, let alone be so close to Angeline.