Chapter 9 - The Promise in the Garden
Three weeks later.
The storm clouds that had hung over the city for months had completely cleared, leaving behind a breathtaking golden sunset over the Blackwood estate grounds.
The rear gardens of the manor were transformed into a paradise of white roses, twinkling fairy lights, and velvet-covered tables. The entire staff of Blackwood Manor—from Mrs. Higgins to young Lily—were dressed in fine formal wear, seated as honored guests in the front rows alongside high-ranking syndicate leaders and international business partners.
Standing beneath a grand archway of white orchids was Ronan.
He wore a pristine white tuxedo jacket over black trousers, his dark hair neatly styled, his eyes fixed on the long carpeted aisle stretching toward the grand terrace.
The harpist played a sweet, swelling melody.
Walking down the aisle, holding a bouquet of rare dark blue roses, was Ivy.
She wore a breathtaking, custom-made bridal gown of ivory satin and lace that hugged her gorgeous, voluptuous curves in divine perfection. The off-the-shoulder neckline showcased her beautiful collarbone—now completely healed, without a single scar left behind. Her long dark hair was crowned with a tiara of diamonds and sapphires from the Blackwood ancestral collection.
Beside her, walking her down the aisle with tears of pride streaming down his face, was Matteo—who had insisted on acting as her honorary father figure for the day.
When Ivy reached the altar, Ronan stepped forward, taking her hands in his. His hands were trembling slightly—a man who had faced down armies trembling before the beauty of his bride.
"You look like an angel, Ivy," Ronan whispered, his eyes shining with tears.
"And you look like my king," Ivy smiled warmly, her heart overflowing with pure, unadulterated happiness.
The priest began the ceremony, but when it came time for the vows, Ronan pulled a handwritten paper from his pocket, looking deeply into Ivy’s eyes.
"Ivy," Ronan spoke, his deep voice carrying across the quiet garden. "For years, I lived in a world of shadows, surrounded by people who loved my power, my money, and my bloodline, but never cared for my soul. Then you came into my life. You swept the floors of my house, but you filled every dark room with your warmth, your kindness, and your incredible light."
He slid a stunning ring—a massive, flawless blue sapphire framed by delicate diamonds—onto her finger.
"I vow to love you, honor you, and protect you with every breath in my body," Ronan swore fiercely. "I vow to worship every inch of your gorgeous body, to stand beside you as your equal, and to ensure that no pain or cruelty ever touches your life again. My empire is your empire. My heart is yours forever."
Ivy wiped a tear from her cheek, smiling through her tears as she spoke her vows.
"Ronan," Ivy said softly, holding his hands tight. "You saw me when I felt invisible. You protected me when I felt helpless. You taught me that my worth isn't measured by the size of my dress or the job I hold, but by the love I give and receive. I give you my heart, my loyalty, and my life, today and for all the days to come."
"By the power vested in me," the priest announced with a warm smile, "I now pronounce you Husband and Wife. You may kiss the bride!"
Ronan didn't wait a single second.
May you like
He wrapped his massive arms around Ivy’s waist, pulling her soft, beautiful body flush against his chest, and lifted her slightly off her feet as he pressed his lips against hers in a passionate, deep, and eternal kiss.
The garden erupted into thunderous cheers, applause, and thrown rose petals. Lily wept tears of joy, Mrs. Higgins clapped her hands together, and Matteo let out a loud whistle of celebration.
