Chapter 9 - The Vow on the Cliffs
On a golden afternoon in June, beneath an arbor of blooming white roses overlooking the Newport cliffs, Elias and I exchanged our wedding vows.
There were no media cameras, no syndicate enforcers, and no shadows. Only forty of our closest friends, Naval veterans, and Dr. Harrison gathered on the green lawn.
I wore a flowing, custom-tailored ivory lace bridal gown with a long silk veil that caught the ocean breeze.
Elias stood at the altar in his full naval dress whites, looking at me as I walked down the aisle with a look of such profound, breathtaking adoration that tears pricked my eyes.
Holding our hands as the ring bearers were Dante and Nurse Miriam, holding Grace and Lily in matching miniature white lace dresses.
"Ava," Elias spoke, his voice steady and full of deep, resonant truth. "When I found you in the snow, I thought I was saving three lives. But the truth is, you and our daughters saved my soul. You taught me that true strength is not measured by the battles you win, but by the family you protect and cherish with every breath. I vow to love you, honor you, and stand as your unbreakable shield for all the days of my life."
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"Elias," I replied, my voice trembling with sweet emotion. "You took us from the darkest winter of our lives and gave us an endless spring. You gave my daughters a father of honor, and you gave me a love that is pure, brave, and eternal. I am yours, completely and forever."
When the officiant pronounced us husband and wife, Elias wrapped his strong arms around my waist, lifting me off my feet as he kissed me beneath the warm summer sun, while our guests erupted into joyful cheers.
