Lora stood in the small private chapel wearing the same ivory silk dress from the night Val first dragged her into this house. The fabric felt heavier today carrying the weight of every lie she was about to speak aloud. Only a handful of people filled the room the officiant in his dark robes William seated like a king on his throne Joshua standing stiffly at his fathers side Michael leaning against the far wall with calculated ease and two silent witnesses from the outer council.
Val stood beside her shoulders squared jaw locked so tight she could see the muscle jumping. He looked every inch the reluctant groom performing his duty. Their arms brushed once as they took their places and the contact sent a small jolt through her that had nothing to do with the cold morning air.
The officiant began without fanfare. Short efficient words. No poetry no grand declarations. This was business dressed in ceremony.
"Do you Valentino take this woman as your wife."
