The energy in the room shifted as the laughter and chatter began to quiet down. The moment had come: the gift exchange.
I had been anticipating this part of the evening, not because of what we might receive, but because it was a chance to see the love and effort everyone had put into celebrating our union. It was humbling and heartwarming to think about.
I stood beside Aeliana, her hand warm in mine, and glanced around the room. The decorations twinkled softly, the golden light of the chandeliers reflecting off the polished surfaces.
Aeliana looked radiant, her cheeks flushed from the dancing and laughter, her hair slightly tousled in a way that made my heart skip. She was holding onto me tightly, as if grounding herself in the moment.
"Ready?" I whispered, leaning in close enough for only her to hear.
She smiled up at me, her eyes sparkling. "As ready as I'll ever be."
