Chapter 28
The Clark family was on a road trip heading north, taking their time since there was still a while before the wedding. During her college years, Tia Clark had often envied her classmates who could travel freely. Having lost her parents at a young age, she could barely sustain herself, let alone afford such luxuries.
Even though her friendship with Victoria was strong, Tia never felt comfortable accepting her generosity to cover travel expenses for trips and adventures.
Tia’s health had improved remarkably. When they passed through a region known for its majestic mountains, Simon suggested they take a hike with Mia. The journey was challenging, but when they reached the summit, Tia felt a sense of clarity and renewal, much like her own life over the past six months.
Upon reaching Kingsbury City, Sophie eagerly welcomed everyone to their newly purchased cottage. Lucas had been working in Nathan’s company for years, and to everyone’s surprise, his career had flourished.
“He’s really talented,” Sophie boasted about her husband, “He used to be the neighborhood gossip magnet, and now this job suits him perfectly. He’s thriving!”
Lucas playfully pinched her arm with a grin.
The two of them seemed less like a married couple and more like kids playing house. Tia whispered her thoughts to Simon, inadvertently brushing his lips with hers.
Simon blushed a bright red.
Over the past half year, they had acknowledged their budding relationship but hadn’t taken the next step. Simon was wary of the emotional scars from past romantic experiences that loomed large in Tia’s mind. Meanwhile, Tia remained patient, often teasing the slightly younger Simon.
With the wedding scheduled in three days, Tia felt a pang of emotion watching Sophie in her exquisite white
gown.
At thirty, Tia didn’t want to wait much longer, but Simon seemed oblivious to her hints.
Sophie had sent an invitation to Nathan, who hadn’t confirmed his attendance but instead generously sent Lucas and Sophie a gift of ten thousand dollars each as a wedding gift.
As everything
was set, the wedding march began to play beautifully on the piano. Mia confidently walked down the aisle behind Sophie, her flower basket in hand, charming the guests with her adorable demeanor.
It wasn’t until the elegant ceremony concluded that Tia noticed Simon was missing.
Scanning the crowd, she spotted a familiar face–Nathan. He looked as composed as ever, yet there was a newfound vitality about him. Their eyes met, and they exchanged a silent toast.
It felt as though, with that gesture, all past emotions–love, hatred, joy, and sorrow–were finally laid to rest. When it came time for the bouquet toss, Mia eagerly tugged Tia forward. Squinting against the bright September sun, Tia felt a bit dizzy as Sophie attempted several throws, only to keep the bouquet firmly in hand. With a playful grin, Sophie turned and placed it directly into Tia’s hands.
Caught off guard, Tia stood frozen as applause erupted around her, parting to reveal Simon, looking dapper and nervous in his suit.
At that moment, tears welled up in Tia’s eyes.
“Don’t cry,” Simon’s hand trembled as laughter rippled through the crowd. Tia hid her tears behind the bouquet, peering through her shimmering vision at Simon, who was so nervous his lips had turned pale. “Tia, I…”
Words failed to capture the depth of the moment. Simon knelt on one knee, presenting a delicate ring. The bride and groom set off confetti cannons, showering them in a cascade of golden streamers as the man she loved choked on his words, proposing.
15:16
Chapter 28
“Tia, I love you. Will you marry me?”
Tia reached out, nodding through her tears.
This was the happiness she had worked so hard to achieve, and ahead lay a long, beautiful life together.
