Chapter 7 - The Real Vows
Twenty minutes later, I stood in the small bridal cottage restroom, looking at my reflection once more. Rachel had repaired my makeup in record time, and Elaine had personally zipped up the ivory silk gown, smoothing down the train with practiced grace.
"I'm sorry you had to deal with that family circus, Elaine," I admitted softly, looking at my future mother-in-law in the mirror.
Elaine placed both of her hands on my shoulders, her touch steady and sure. "Honey, you spent thirty-one years surviving people who tried to dim your light so they could shine brighter. Daniel chose you because you're the strongest woman he’s ever met. You are family now. And in our family, we protect each other."
When I walked out of the cottage and stepped back onto the gravel path, the afternoon light had softened into a warm golden hour. The guests were back in their seats, waiting patiently. My father was standing outside the barn doors, alone, his eyes red and swollen.
When he saw me in my real dress, he covered his mouth and began to weep quietly.
"Claire," he croaked, stepping toward me. "I am so sorry. For thirty years, your mother and I... we protected Natalie’s pride at your expense. We were so terrified of what people thought, we let her destroy you. I don't deserve to walk you down that aisle."
I looked at my father. I didn't feel hatred, but the blind deference I had carried since childhood was gone forever.
"You're right, Dad," I said gently, but with absolute firmness. "You don't. I'm walking myself down."
I didn't wait for his response. I signaled the barn coordinator, and the heavy double doors swung open once more. This time, the grand piano began to play a soft, classical melody played by Daniel’s cousin.
May you like
I walked down the aisle with my head held high, my bouquet firm in my hands, moving toward the only man who had ever looked at the storms around me and decided to stand in the rain with me.
When Daniel saw me, a tear finally broke free and tracked down his cheek. He took my hand at the altar, leaning in close. "You were worth every second of the wait," he whispered.
