Even though the wedding date hadn't been officially set, Camilla's simple declaration had electrified the Charles Estate. Every staff member, from the maids to the head butler, launched into a frenzy of joyous preparation.
Dane immediately assembled a team to begin selecting premium vendors for the reception. Everyone had a mission, leaving the actual bride and groom completely sidelined in the chaotic celebration.
That weekend, Jade Spring Abbey was bustling with visitors. The parking lot at the base of the mountain was packed with three times as many cars as their last visit.
As Camilla and Lance strolled up the path, the Matchmaking Tree came into view. The gentle breeze rustled the branches, sending hundreds of crimson ribbons fluttering beautifully in the air. Beneath the canopy, couples stood with their eyes closed, whispering prayers for eternal love.
Seeing the tree brought back vivid memories of their first visit. Camilla nudged Lance playfully. "Were you seriously praying to the God of Wealth last time we were here?"
Lance raised an eyebrow, his deep, raspy voice carrying over the wind. "You already know the answer to that. I told you, the Matchmaking Tree is highly effective."
Camilla laughed. "You are incredibly manipulative, Lance Charles. But you were right. It is very effective."
"So, Camilla," Lance murmured, his eyes locking onto hers. "What exactly did you wish for that day?"
Instead of answering, Camilla walked over to the ancient trunk and scanned the branches until she found the ribbon she had tied months ago. The faded ink still displayed her blunt prayer.
It wasn't for wealth.
It read: Divorce as soon as possible.
A knowing smirk spread across Lance's face. He caught her gaze, and they both stared up at the majestic tree.
"Asking the God of Marriage to grant you a divorce," Lance teased. "You really know how to assign the wrong jurisdiction, Camilla. But since he delivered on your request, we should probably write a new ribbon together today. Consider it boosting his success metrics."
With all her past burdens lifted, Camilla happily agreed. They wrote their names on a fresh crimson ribbon and secured it tightly to a sturdy branch.
Just then, a sudden gust of wind swept through the courtyard, dislodging an older ribbon from a higher branch. It fluttered down and landed near Camilla's feet. Assuming it was another couple's fallen wish, she bent down to pick it up, intending to tie it back.
The moment she read the words, her fingers froze. She slowly turned to look at Lance.
The handwriting was identical to the bold strokes on her original ribbon, but with a few extra words appended to her wish.

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