Epilogue..
As I sat beside him on the blanket, surrounded by the people we loved, I felt my heart swell with emotion. The night air was crisp and cool, filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. The sky above was a deep shade of indigo, twinkling with stars that seemed to dance in rhythm with the music that filled the air.
I couldn't help but steal glances at him, my eyes drinking in the sight of his chiseled features and piercing gaze. His dark hair was perfectly messy, and his sharp jawline was accentuated by the moonlight. He was dashing, to say the least, and I felt my heart skip a beat every time he looked at me.
As for me, I was feeling a bit self-conscious about my appearance. My black wavy hair cascaded down my back like a waterfall, and my green eyes sparkled in the moonlight. But it was my moonlight glow that seemed to captivate him. He couldn't take his eyes off me, and I felt like I was basking in the warmth of his adoration.
He took my hand in his, his fingers intertwining with mine in a gentle caress. "I promise to love you forever," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion.
I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked at him. He was so sincere, so genuine, and I knew that he meant every word.
He handed me a small box, and I opened it to reveal a beautiful moon-shaped necklace. It was exquisite, with intricate details that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight.
"It's beautiful," I breathed, my eyes shining with tears.
He smiled and fastened the necklace around my neck. "You're beautiful," he whispered, his lips brushing against my ear.
As we sat together, surrounded by the people we loved, I began to sing a soft, melodious song. It was a love song, one that I had written especially for him.
"In Your Heart I Belong"
Underneath the starlit sky,
Where whispers dance and dreams can fly,
I found a love, so pure, so true,
Every moment, I'm lost in you.
(Pre-Chorus)
With every laugh, with every tear,
You wipe my doubts, you calm my fears,
In your embrace, I'm finally free,
You are the song, you are the melody.
(Chorus)
Oh, love, you're my shining light,
In your arms, everything feels right.
With every heartbeat, every sigh,
In your heart, that's where I'll lie.
Through every storm, we'll rise and stand,
Side by side, we'll make our plan.
Oh, love, you're my sweetest song,
With you, my heart, I've found my home.
(Verse 2)
Days may change, the world may spin,
But in your smile, I find my win.
With every sunrise, a brand new chance,
To dance together in this romance.
As I sang, his eyes locked onto mine, filled with love and adoration. He joined in, his deep voice blending with mine in perfect harmony.
Together, we sang under the starlit sky, our love shining bright for all to see.
....
As I stand before the ornate mirror in Anni's dressing room, my sister's nervous energy is palpable. She fusses with my hair, securing the final pins with trembling fingers. The soft glow of the vanity lights highlights the tension etched on her face.
"Dahlia, you look stunning," she says, stepping back to admire her handiwork. Her eyes shine with tears, a mix of excitement and anxiety.
I force a smile, the lavender bridesmaid dress hugging my curves. The delicate lace and intricate embroidery seem to mock me, reminding me of the love I'll never have. My eyes well up, but I blink back tears. Today is Anni's day, after all.
The room is filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the soft hum of chatter from the other bridesmaids. Anni's maid of honor, Rachel, bustles around us, ensuring every detail is perfect.
"Dahlia, what's wrong?" Anni asks, concern etched on her face. Her voice is barely above a whisper.
I shake my head, attempting to compose myself. "Just happy for you, Anni." My voice cracks, betraying my emotions.
Anni's eyes sparkle, oblivious to my turmoil. "I'm so nervous. What if I trip down the aisle?" She giggles, her anxiety momentarily forgotten.
I chuckle, trying to distract myself from the ache within. "You'll be perfect, Anni. Clyde will love every moment." The mention of his name sends a shiver down my spine.
Clyde.
My heart stutters, memories flooding my mind. Our laughter, our tears, our whispers in the dead of night. My first love. My first everything.
Anni continues, unaware of my inner turmoil. "I'm glad you're here for me, Dahlia. You're my rock." Her voice trembles.
I feel a pang of guilt, my secrets threatening to suffocate me. How can I attend my sister's wedding to the man I love? How can I watch Clyde promise forever to someone else?
I push aside the thoughts and focus on Anni. "I'll always be here for you, Anni," I say, hugging her tightly. The silk of her wedding gown rustles against my dress.
As we embrace, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. The mask of happiness slips, revealing the pain beneath. My eyes, usually bright and carefree, seem dull and lifeless.
Anni steps back, her hands adjusting my bouquet. "You look beautiful, Dahlia. Thank you for being my maid of honor."
I smile, the gesture feeling hollow. "Anytime, Anni."
The ceremony begins, and I take my place beside Anni. The church is filled with the warm glow of candles and the soft murmur of guests. Clyde's family, beaming with pride, sits in the front pew.
As the music swells, Anni's nerves dissipate, replaced by a radiant smile. She walks down the aisle, her eyes locked onto Clyde's.
My gaze follows hers, and for an instant, time freezes. Clyde's eyes meet mine, and I see the faintest glimmer of recognition. The world around me fades, leaving only the two of us, suspended in a sea of regret.
The minister's voice breaks the spell, welcoming everyone to the ceremony. Clyde's eyes return to Anni, his smile warm and loving.
---
My name is Dahlia and this is my story