Chapter 9 - The Promise at Lake Michigan
Two months later.
The winter snows had melted, leaving behind a crisp, golden spring morning over Lake Michigan.
In the private garden of Gabriel’s Gold Coast estate, white marquees had been set up on the emerald lawn overlooking the blue water.
It was a quiet, intimate wedding ceremony—no corporate sharks, no press, only close friends, loyal security staff, and the chief surgeon who had saved their baby three months prior.
Mara stood near the marble altar wearing an exquisite custom lace bridal gown that gently draped over her full, nine-month pregnant belly.
Gabriel stood across from her, wearing a navy tuxedo, his dark eyes misting with tears as he held both of her hands.
“Seven months ago,” Gabriel spoke his vows, his voice rich and deep, “I was a man living in cold darkness, convinced I didn’t deserve a tomorrow. Then I met a woman in a snowstorm who showed me what light truly meant.”
He slipped a stunning diamond band onto her finger beside the black onyx crest ring.
“I promised to protect you, Mara,” Gabriel whispered, looking into her clear green eyes. “Today, I promise to spend every day of my life giving you the love, honor, and happiness you deserve.”
Mara smiled through happy tears, stepping closer to him.
“I didn’t need a prince in armor, Gabriel,” Mara murmured softly, holding his face in her hands. “I just needed a man who held my hand when I was on my knees. You gave me a future... and you gave our child a home.”
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The priest smiled warmly. “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.”
Gabriel pulled Mara into his arms, kissing her tenderly as the warm spring breeze rustled the white roses around them.
