Page 84 of Broken Hearts
Squeezing his hand, my heart is full. “Thank you for charging into my life like a bull, for not giving up on us, even when things seemed impossible.”
Cole’s eyes soften further, a hint of moisture glistening in them. “I couldn’t give up on us. You’re my everything.”
We eat, talk and laugh, the conversation flowing easily. Every so often, his gaze drifts back to my hand, his smile widening each time he sees the ring.
“I never thought I’d see you wearing that,” he admits, his voice low. “I’ve imagined it, hoped for it, but seeing it… it’s more than I ever dreamed.”
I look down at the ring, its diamonds catching the candlelight. “It’s beautiful, just like us. We’re not perfect, but we’re real. And that’s what makes this so special.”
He nods, his eyes never leaving mine. “Real and worth every moment, every challenge. I love you. More than I can say.”
Dinner unfolds with laughter and thoughtful moments. We swap stories, reminisce, and share our dreams for the future. The evening turns into a celebration of our bond – a reaffirmation of its depth and strength.
Later, as we clear the dishes in a comfortable silence, I'm struck by how much we've endured and grown together. This night is more than just a dinner; it's a testament to our extraordinary love.
Later, as we make our way to the bedroom, the connection between us deepens. We make love, a sweet and tender expression of our renewed commitment, each touch and kiss a reaffirmation of the promises we’ve made to each other.
In the quiet afterglow, wrapped in our love's warmth, I realize my heart committed to this path long ago. The ring on my finger, symbolizing our journey, is a tangible promise. It reminds me that we're more than just husband and wife – we're a team, ready for the future. With Cole beside me, uncertainties feel smaller, and every moment is treasured. Our future, once filled with unknowns, now gleams with the promise of adventures and endless possibilities together.
Epilogue
Eva
Six Months later
It’s the beginning of summer, and today, under a clear blue sky, I’m getting ready for a day that feels more like a dream than a reality. My wedding day to Cole, set in the stunning gardens of the Westbrook estate.
In the bridal suite, the atmosphere buzzes with excitement. My bridesmaids, Poppy and Nessa, are a flurry of activity, their laughter and chatter a soothing balm to my jittery nerves. I catch my reflection in the mirror, draped in an exquisite wedding gown that emphasizes the generous curves that Cole can’t get enough of.
My fingers gently trace the lace bordering the plunging V neckline of my gown, a tease reserved for Cole’s eyes. This dress, a custom creation from Jade, embodies new beginnings. It’s crafted with care, incorporating lace from my mother’s wedding gown, now part of my own. The full tulle skirt drapes beautifully to the floor, ending in a dramatic chapel train, a perfect blend of past and present.
Adjusting the delicate veil, I notice Nessa’s reflection. Her recent heartbreak casts a shadow, but her resilience shines through her smile. “No sad eyes on your wedding day,” she chides.
Poppy joins in, her laughter filling the room. “Yeah, today’s about love and ridiculously over-the-top romance. Heartbreak can take a day off.”
I smile, grateful for their strength and support. “I want you both to be as happy as I am.”
Nessa winks, a spark of her usual fiery spirit shining through. “Give it time. For now, let’s focus on getting you hitched in style.”
At that moment, Jade walks in, her eyes lighting up at the sight of me. “Oh, Eva, you look absolutely breathtaking!” Her voice is filled with warmth and joy.
Her presence brings a comforting energy to the room, a gentle reminder of the family I’m about to officially join… again. We share a heartfelt embrace, and she whispers, “Cole is the luckiest man. You’ve brought so much joy to his life.”
Jade hands me a gift—a diamond necklace. “A Westbrook family heirloom—your something borrowed,” she says, her voice filled with emotion. “Every Westbrook bride has worn it. Now it’s your turn.”
My breath catches at its beauty, and Nessa can’t help but blurt out, “Holy shit!” breaking the tension with her candor.
Overwhelmed, tears well up in my eyes. Jade’s acceptance and the significance of this gesture deepen my sense of belonging in this family. “I’m honored,” I manage to say, touched by her generosity and love.
“Cole is so nervous at the altar, fidgeting like a schoolboy. The love in his eyes… It reminds me of his father. Westbrook men love deeply, and you’re his one and only, Eva.”
As Jade and the girls leave to take their places, my father steps in. His eyes brim with unspoken emotion, and I feel a lump forming in my throat. “I wish your mother could see you,” he chokes out. “She’d think it’s madness, but she’d be so proud. My fairy, you’re beautiful.”
“I love you, Dad. I know it’s all crazy, but I love Cole so much. I can’t breathe right without him.”
He sighs with resignation and humor. “Yes, I see that. And now, I have an asshole for a son-in-law. That’s karma for all the grief I gave him on the field.”
I laugh, holding on to his arm as we prepare to walk down the aisle.