Unlocking my Boss’s Heart (Romance in Sweet Comedy #4)

Epilogue

T he wedding

With my face perfectly made up, lips lined with soft pink gloss, and hair curled into an elegant updo accented with glittering accessories, I gazed at the reflection of my beautiful wedding gown in the mirror. It was sleeveless, save for the thin straps adorned with lace leaf and flower appliqués. Silky fabric flowed from the waist over the full satin underskirt, an intricate detailing of white flowers was embroidered in silver thread that embellished the sheer layer.

I still couldn’t believe the dress was mine or that today was my wedding day.

In just a short time, I would marry Anton, the love of my life.

The date had finally arrived after four months of excited planning since his proposal. I chuckled to myself, thinking of how patient Anton had been while his mother made several last-minute changes. Given how much larger the Waltons’ circle of acquaintances was compared to the Adams’, my mother had done very little, happily letting Hannah Waltons take over. Both women had been satisfied with that arrangement.

The wedding was taking place at a charming countryside estate just outside New York City. Anton and I had visited the venue and fallen in love with the estate’s meticulously manicured gardens, sprawling lawn, and vibrant tapestry of florals and verdant greens. The scent of roses and lavender had filled the air, mingling with the crisp, late-summer breeze.

During the wedding preparations, Anton and I butted heads on several issues. In those moments, we learned to agree to disagree. A thrill ran through me at the thought of marrying such a wonderful man. I loved him so much, and I couldn’t wait for us to spend our future together.

My heart hammered, and a blush crept up to my neck at the thought of our wedding night. “It’ll be glorious,” he’d murmured in my ear at the cinema. We were watching a movie with a wedding theme.

A knock sounded on the door.

“Who is it?” I called out.

“Your fiancé! Soon-to-be husband,” Anton’s voice came through the closed door. Followed by his chuckle as he heard my gasp. “In less than thirty minutes!”

“Don’t come in!” I shouted, leaning my weight against the door. “You’re not allowed to see my wedding dress before I walk down the aisle,” I added with a laugh at the silly superstition.

But I wasn’t willing to risk anything that might ruin our marriage before it even began.

“I don’t need to come in. Just wanted to hear your voice,” he whispered through the door. I placed my ear against it to listen.

“I’m happy to hear your voice, too,” I whispered back.

A muffled shriek startled me, followed by Maddison’s voice urging Anton to go away.

“I'll see you soon, love,” he called out to me before obeying my besties’ command.

Maddison entered the room, dressed in a maroon bridesmaid’s dress, the silky fabric flowing around her as she moved.

“You look beautiful, Maddy.”

“Thank you, Cel.” She grabbed my hands and said excitedly, “I can’t believe you’re getting married today!”

“I know. It feels like a dream.”

“It’s almost time for the ceremony. Let me help you put on your dress.”

A short time later, the ceremony began. I walked down the aisle, my heart pounding in rhythm with the music played by a live string quartet. The aisle was lined with petals, creating a path that led to Anton. His reassuring, warm smile grounded me amidst the large number of attendees. He stood tall and handsome, his bespoke tuxedo tailored to perfection, his expression reflecting the love and anticipation I felt.

Though friends, family, and future in-laws surrounded me, all I saw was him.

Holding a small bouquet of peonies, I took measured steps, a broad grin on my face. The butterflies swirling in my stomach weren’t from trepidation but excitement. I knew Anton was the only man I would ever want to spend my life with.

When we reached the front, my father kissed my cheek and gave my hand to Anton.

Our vows were a blend of traditional promises and personal anecdotes, reflecting our unique journey. As we exchanged rings, the room seemed to hold its breath—a moment suspended in time. His eyes met mine, love shining bright, reflecting my own.

The minister pronounced us man and wife, and we sealed our love with a kiss.

“This is the best day of my life, Love,” Anton whispered.

Tears welled up in my eyes. “Mine too, Anton. I love you.”

The applause that followed was a joyous cacophony, blending the elegant refinement of Anton’s world with the hearty warmth of my Texan roots.

Hand in hand, we walked down the aisle, surrounded by our loved ones who showered us with blessings and joy.

The celebration moved to the gardens, now transformed with twinkling lights draped across trees and elegant canopies. Guests mingled, sipping champagne and enjoying hors d'oeuvres served on silver platters. The reception was a feast for the senses, with gourmet dishes that paid homage to both New York sophistication and Southern comfort.

“Celia! You’re a married woman!” Maddison exclaimed as she approached us with Johan, who was the best man to her maid of honor.

I laughed. “Yeah!”

“I’m so happy for you,” she said, with misty eyes.

My family and my in-laws expressed the same sentiment.

“May I have a dance with the happy bride?” Johan asked.

“Sure thing.”

He led me to the dance floor.

The evening went on with lively music. My father’s speech, filled with humor and emotion, brought tears to my eyes, while Anton’s mother, with her elegance, welcomed me into their family with genuine warmth.

“I get to finally have you to myself,” Anton said, kissing me as we drove away from the wedding.

My heart immediately remembered its cadence when it came to Anton, hammering against my ribs. It knew this man, my best friend and partner—the one I would love for the rest of my life. I couldn’t imagine a future without him. One day, he would be the father of my children, and we would fill our home with love and laughter.

At the threshold of his apartment, he picked me up to carry me over, and I clung to him. He set me down in the living room, undid his bowtie, and removed his tux, his eyes never leaving mine. Little waves of warmth rolled continually from my chest to the pit of my stomach.

He then took my mouth in a siring kiss, sending a thrill through me. As he undid my back zipper, the dress barely hung on my person. He stopped only to pull off his shirt and discard his shoe. Then, he took my mouth again, and it threw me off balance.

I let go of my dress to reach for his shoulder, and it fell on the floor.

He picked me up and carried me to his bedroom. Laying me gently on his bed, he came over me, kissing me until I was dizzy with desire. From that moment on, it was just love, leading us into our forever.

The End