The sun peeked through a cloudless sky, painting the city in hues of gold. The scent of fresh blooms filled the air, mingling with the cheerful chatter as the morning came alive. Evelyn stood before the full-length mirror in the penthouse suite of the Stone Palace Hotel—the same room where her and Derek's love story had begun—staring at her reflection. Her wedding gown was a dream: a cascade of soft blush satin with silky lace adorning the bodice and sleeves. The gown flowed gracefully to the floor, its soft fabric catching the light as she moved. As she turned, the layers of tulle and silk gently swayed, revealing a subtle glint that sparkled like stars. The blush hue of the dress complemented her glowing complexion, adding a romantic touch.

A diamond tiara and a bouquet of white lilies and blush roses completed her enchanting appearance. At that moment, she truly looked like a vision of love and beauty, ready to embark on her new journey. Samantha stood beside her in a matching flower girl dress, her eyes wide with excitement as she clutched a basket of flower petals.

"Mommy, you look like a fairytale princess!" Samantha exclaimed, spinning in her dress.

Evelyn laughed softly, crouching to her daughter's level. "Thanks, baby. But you're the princess here," she said, adjusting Samantha's flower crown. "Are you ready to be the best flower girl ever?" Samantha nodded excitedly, twirling.

Rayna and Maya entered, smiling broadly. Rayna was elegantly dressed in a mauve maid-of-honor gown, while Maya wore a soft lavender gown. "Ready, bride-to-be?" Maya asked, her eyes shining with happiness. In the weeks following Derek's proposal, Maya had bonded well with Evelyn, Rayna, and everyone else, and no longer felt out of place.

"As ready as I'll ever be," Evelyn replied, her voice steady despite the fluttering butterflies in her stomach.

"Even if you aren't, you'll be fine. Derek's been ready to marry you since the day you met," Rayna said, and Evelyn laughed softly.

"Evie, it's time!" Claire called from the doorway.

Evelyn took a deep breath, her heart racing. "Okay, let's do this."

"You've got this," Rayna said, squeezing Evelyn's hand.

Meanwhile, in the presidential suite, Derek was flanked by Ethan and Liam, all sharply dressed in suits. Like Maya, Liam had bonded with the others over sports and drinks, and now considered himself to have friends in Ludus. Ethan, whose casts had been removed, adjusted Derek's tie.

"Nervous?" he asked with a smirk.

"Not at all," Derek said confidently, though the slight tremor in his hands as he fastened his cufflinks betrayed him.

"Your hands are shaking," Liam pointed out with a laugh, and Ethan joined in.

Derek scowled. "If you were marrying Evelyn, your whole body would shake. But you wouldn't know, because she friend-zoned you," Derek said, and Ethan chuckled while Liam glared. "How many times do I have to tell you I wasn't friend-zoned? Do you think you'd have stood a chance if I'd asked her out while we were in Husla?" Liam asked, and Derek snorted.

"Yeah, right," Derek said, and Ethan chuckled, enjoying their familiar banter. "Besides, I believe this happened because I was meant to be with Maya, not her," Liam added defensively.

"Yeah, whatever makes you sleep well at night," Derek drawled, to Liam's annoyance.

"If you two are done bickering, we have a wedding to attend," Ethan said, preventing further argument.

Derek took a deep breath, adjusted his tie, and they walked out to the hotel's garden where the wedding was being held.

The ceremony took place in a sprawling garden, its paths lined with flowers in full bloom. White chairs adorned with ribbons formed neat rows, and a floral arch stood at the end of the aisle. Guests chatted softly, the air thick with anticipation.

As the music started, Samantha walked down the aisle, scattering rose petals with glee. The crowd cooed, and she grinned brightly at her father, who stood by the floral arch. Claire sat in the front row, wiping happy tears from her eyes, while Derek's parents, seated nearby, beamed with joy at Samantha. Then came Rayna and Maya, walking slowly, their gazes fixed on their partners, who smiled back from behind Derek.

Finally, Evelyn appeared with her father. A hush fell over the crowd. God! She looked like a dream! Derek thought. He could feel his pulse pounding as she approached, his heart overflowing with love. Evelyn felt his gaze. Their eyes met, and her breath caught. God! How could one man look so handsome? she mused. Everyone else faded away as they gazed at each other, awed by their love.

When Evelyn reached Derek, her father kissed her cheek and placed her hand in Derek's. "Take care of her," he said softly, his voice thick with emotion.

"I will," Derek promised, his gaze unwavering.

The officiant's voice was warm as he led them through their vows. Derek spoke first, his voice rich with emotion: "Evelyn, you've brought light and love into my life in ways I never imagined. I promise to love you, protect you, provide for you, support you, and grow with you every day of our lives." Evelyn smiled through her tears as she responded: "Derek, you're my safe place and my greatest adventure. I promise to stand by your side through every high and low with all the love in my heart. And I promise to give you a kiss every day, even when you've grown toothless," she said, and everyone laughed. They exchanged vows, their eyes locked. "I love you forever," they concluded in unison.

They exchanged rings. "With this ring, I bind my heart to yours forever," Derek said, his voice unwavering. Evelyn did the same, her hands trembling slightly. "With this ring, I promise you my forever," she whispered.

"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride," the officiant said. Derek didn't wait. He kissed Evelyn deeply, the crowd erupting in applause. Samantha raised her hands to her eyes. "They're so mushy!" she whispered loudly to her grandparents, making everyone chuckle.

The reception was a lively affair, held in the hotel's largest hall. The glamorous setting felt like a fairytale. The hall was bathed in warm, golden light from cascading chandeliers that sparkled like a thousand tiny stars. Tables draped in ivory linen were adorned with elegant centerpieces of blush roses, white hydrangeas, and crystal accents. The air was filled with the soft melody of a string quartet, mingling with the laughter and chatter of guests. The dance floor gleamed, polished to perfection, while a raised dais held a grand table for the newlyweds and their closest family. Behind it, a lush floral wall with "Evelyn & Derek" scripted in shimmering gold served as a perfect backdrop for photos. Servers in crisp uniforms gracefully carried trays of champagne and hors d'oeuvres. A sweet aroma wafted from the dessert table, laden with treats, including a towering wedding cake adorned with edible flowers.

Evelyn and Derek entered hand in hand, their smiles radiant. The crowd cheered, rising to welcome them. Samantha enthusiastically threw the last of her petals, her excitement lighting up the room. The newlyweds moved to the dance floor for their first dance. The music softened, and the spotlight followed them as they swayed to a love ballad. Evelyn's gown glittered with every movement, and Derek's hand on her waist was steady and protective. They moved in perfect sync, their eyes locked, their love evident to all.

When the dance ended, Derek's father stood to give a toast. He tapped his glass for attention. The room quieted. "I could stand here and list countless reasons why today is one of the happiest days of my life," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "But the most important reason is that I see my son, Derek, standing here with the woman who has not only brought out the best in him but has also become a cherished part of our family." He turned to Evelyn, his gaze soft. "Evelyn, you are a gem. From the moment Derek met you, he told us he'd found someone special; after I met my princess, Samantha, and then you, I confirmed it for myself. Thank you for loving Derek and for making him the happiest man in this room—well, apart from me," he added, grinning at his wife, and laughter rippled through the hall. "To Derek and Evelyn," he continued, raising his glass, "May your lives be filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. And may all your ups and downs be between the sheets," he said, causing more laughter, and Evelyn blushed. "Here's to a beautiful beginning and a lifetime of joy. Cheers!" The guests echoed the sentiment.

The evening unfolded with laughter, dancing, and heartfelt moments. Samantha ensured every child had cake. Evelyn's bouquet toss was a highlight. As she stood on the dais, her friends and the single ladies gathered, eager to catch it. Rayna smiled mischievously, pushing to the front. Evelyn turned, closing her eyes. "Ready?" she called out teasingly. With a playful toss, the bouquet soared. Rayna reached for it, but as her fingers brushed the flowers, a voice called her name.

"Rayna."

She turned to see Ethan kneeling, a small velvet box in his hand. Gasps echoed around them, and Rayna froze, the bouquet forgotten as it tumbled to the floor.

"Ethan?" she whispered, her eyes wide.

"I figured I don't have to wait to propose. We can be engaged while you make up your mind," Ethan said, his voice full of emotion. "Rayna, you are my golden sun. For weeks, you've been my best friend, my lover, my nurse, my rock, my partner, my everything. I need you in my life, Rayna. Will you do me the honor of being my wife?"

Tears filled Rayna's eyes as she nodded, too surprised to speak. The crowd erupted in cheers as Ethan slipped the ring onto her finger and embraced her. Evelyn watched, her heart swelling with joy. She turned to Derek, his hand resting lightly on her back.

"This is perfect," she murmured.

"I don't know about that. I only know that my wife is perfect," Derek said, kissing her.

And with that, their new chapter began.