CHAPTER TEN

WEDDING DAY (2).

In the kitchen, the caterers were working tirelessly to prepare the best feast for the reception. The head chef, a stern-looking man in his late fifties, barked orders at his team.

"Presentation is the most important. I want those canapés to look as good as they taste," he instructed.

Mary, Emily's mother, was overseeing the preparations. She hovered over the kitchen staff, her sharp eyes catching every mistake.

"This wedding must be impeccable and perfect," Mary said, inspecting a tray of appetizers. "Emily has been through enough, and she deserves the best."

The head chef nodded. "We're on it, Mrs. Orbert. Everything will be perfect."

Mary smiled, satisfied. "Good. This is a day Emily will never forget."

---

Outside, the garden was being transformed into a fairy tale setting for the ceremony. Rows of white chairs lined the aisle leading to a beautifully decorated archway of flowers and ribbons. The wedding planner, Becky, was directing the setup.

"I want those flowers evenly spaced along the aisle. And make sure the archway is secure," Becky commanded, her eyes scanning the scene for any imperfections.

Mary approached with a look of approval. "Becky, this looks amazing. Emily will be thrilled."

"We're doing our best, Mrs. Orbert. I promise to give the best of my work," Becky replied, making a note on her clipboard.

Mary nodded, her gaze softening as she looked over the preparations. "It will be. Emily deserves nothing less after all the heartache Leah caused her."

Becky's expression turned sympathetic. "I heard about what happened. Leah wanted to steal all that their father left for Emily.. It's awful. But Emily is strong. She finally came out on top."

Mary smiled proudly. "Yes, she has. And today, she'll finally have everything she's ever wanted."

---

As the final preparations were ongoing, the living room filled with close friends and family, all eager to celebrate Emily's big day. The soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses created a festive atmosphere.

Emily moved through the room, greeting guests and ensuring everything was going smoothly. She stopped when she overheard someone talking.

"is this not her elder sister's husband?"

"Yes, he is. I wonder what happened. I haven't seen her here though, that girl is harmless. I am sure it was Mary's plan to throw her out because she had no one to fight for her".... with those words still in guests mouth.

"They heard a step come forward to them…

"Will you mind your business ladies. I suggest you eat and drink like you ought to like beggars and allow others live their lives. I bet yours are perfect jndeed"..Emily said filled with fury.

As she left… they didn't stop talking.

" husband snatcher, just like her mother did"...

"Like mother like daughter!" the guest said scornfully.

She ignored them...

---

The morning of the wedding arrived with a flurry of activity. The entire household was up early, preparing for the big event. Emily was up before dawn, her excitement too great to allow for sleep. She spent the early hours overseeing the final details, ensuring everything was perfect.

In the bridal suite, the atmosphere was a mix of excitement and controlled chaos. Hair stylists and makeup artists worked diligently to prepare Emily and her bridesmaids for the ceremony.

"Emily, you look stunning," Mary said, her eyes wide with admiration as Emily stepped into her wedding dress.

Emily twirled around, feeling the weight of the dress and the significance of the day. "Thank you, Mother. This is the day I've always dreamed of."

Her bridesmaids gathered around, their faces glowing with excitement. They adjusted her veil, fluffed her dress, and made sure every detail was perfect.

"Today is your day, Emily," one of them said.

"Yes, it is," Emily replied, her heart swelling with happiness.

"I hope you will enjoy it!"... one of them said again.

---

As the ceremony drew near, guests began to take their seats. The garden was full of smiling faces, all there to witness the union of Emily and Alex. Soft music played in the background, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Alex stood at the altar, looking handsome and nervous. He glanced at his watch, then back at the aisle, eager for the moment when Emily would walk down it.

"Relax, man. She'll be here soon," his best man, James, said, patting him on the back.

"I know. I just can't wait to see her," Alex replied, smiling nervously.

---

Finally, the music changed to the bridal march. Everyone stood and turned to watch as Emily appeared at the end of the aisle... She took a deep breath, her heart pounding with excitement.

As she walked down the aisle, her eyes met Alex's. His face lit up with a smile that made her heart soar. This was the moment they had both been waiting for.

Now, they can have each other as they wish.

When she reached the altar, her father's brother placed her hand in Alex's, giving her a reassuring smile. "Take good care of her," he whispered to Alex.

"I will," Alex replied, his voice filled with emotion.

"You look stunning in your wedding gown. I can't wait to have the whole of you tonight"... Alex whispered in her ears.

Emily blushed.. "same here, my dear husband"...

"Ouuhh, that sounds good"... Alex replied

The ceremony proceeded with heartfelt vows and promises of eternal love.

When the officiant finally declared them husband and wife, the crowd rejoiced and erupted in applause as Alex and Emily shared their first kiss as a married couple.

The gossip was still spreading but they cared less.

After the wedding ceremony, everyone congratulated them and the ones who came with gifts gave it to them.

"It's finally official, Emily. Welcome to the family of Allison. I hope you find happiness and bear us grandchildren soon"... Alex's mother said.

"Sure I will, Mother-in-law"... Emily replied.

"Since you're the one he has chosen. I hope you do right by him. Happy married life"... Alex's father said.

Emily couldn't wait to flaunt her diamond ring in front of Leah. "I finally have taken my place. What is rightfully mine".