The wedding continued as if the world itself had paused for this single, flawless moment, yet beneath the crystal chandeliers and polished marble floors, unseen truths festered.
Raya walked beside Adrian, her steps measured, the metallic swish of her skirt and the click of her heels a quiet drumbeat of authority and power. To the guests, she was the picture of elegance, of a bride finally reaching her destiny. But inside, every step she took was laced with suppressed fury. She thought of the real bride, Seraphina, and the injustice that had placed her here, reciting vows that were not truly hers.
The priest cleared his throat, voice solemn yet gentle, resonating through the hall. "We are gathered here today to witness the union of Adrian Blake and Seraphina Hart…" His eyes flicked over Raya, she had practiced this smile, this posture, every inch of composure, yet internally, her mind was a storm.
