I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 429

Despite the dramatic detour, the wedding proceeded exactly as scheduled.

No one could have predicted the ceremony would actually happen on time, but Genevieve had managed the afternoon's chaos with absolute ironclad efficiency.

While the crisis was unfolding, she smoothly informed the guests that the bride was feeling slightly under the weather and needed to rest. With a few senior family members stepping in to mingle and distract the crowd, the hiccup was perfectly concealed, preventing any wild speculations.

When Xander had rushed back carrying Nora, Genevieve didn't waste a single second. She immediately brought out the backup wedding gown she had meticulously prepared. It turned out to be a lifesaver, and the makeup artists worked at lightning speed to flawlessly touch up her look.

By the time Nora reappeared before the crowd, the sun was dipping below the horizon, painting the entire sky in breathtaking shades of soft pink and warm orange.

Dressed in a pristine white gown and clutching her bouquet, she gazed down the aisle at the man waiting for her. Suddenly, all the terrifying hurdles of the day completely faded into insignificance.

Xander had changed into a fresh suit, looking worlds apart from the frantic, red-eyed man he had been just hours prior.

They walked slowly down the aisle together. Under the officiant's warm smile, they exchanged their rings and spoke their vows.

Bonnie and Cassie watched from the front row, their eyes shining with happy tears.

When Nora finally said the words, "I do," Xander's eyes glistened with emotion.

His voice was wonderfully raspy as he spoke. "Thank you for marrying me."

The ocean breeze was gentle as he carefully lifted her veil, leaning down to capture her lips in a tender kiss.

The guests erupted into thunderous applause. Bonnie bounced on her toes, clapping enthusiastically, while Cassie beamed with pure joy.

As the reception wound down and the guests began to depart, Genevieve ushered the two kids back to the old estate. Before stepping into the car, Cassie glanced back over her shoulder at her mother.

Nora shook her head slowly. "Not anymore."

A thick, intoxicating tension began to unfurl in the air. As Xander's fingertips grazed the bare skin of her back, he felt a delicate shiver run through her body.

He carefully unzipped the gown, the fabric parting to expose her flawless skin to the cool night air.

The heavy dress slipped from her shoulders, pooling gracefully at her feet.

Xander turned her around to face him. He looked down at her, his Adam's apple bobbing sharply as his gaze darkened with intense desire. But then, he froze, seemingly paralyzed by an unexpected wave of hesitation.

Nora took a deliberate step forward, instantly closing the gap between them. She was immediately enveloped by the intoxicating scent of cedarwood radiating from his skin.

She tilted her head up to look at him, the soft moonlight reflecting beautifully in his dark, mesmerizing eyes.