Chapter 1261:
Rhys replied with a shaky voice, âYou wanted to keep things simple for me.â His voice trembled, and his hands shook. It seemed he might start crying at any moment.
Outside, the guests barely contained their laughter, amused by the usually stoic Rhysâ nervousness in front of Harlee.
Clearly, the Sanderson family saw no need for wedding challenges, as Rhysâ evident nervousness provided enough entertainment.
Harlee hadnât anticipated such a reaction from Rhys. She lowered her head and murmured, âEveryoneâs watching. Letâs go. Take me to our cozy little home.â
Rhys looked at her, his expression dazed, taking a moment to grasp her words. Then, gathering his resolve, he lifted her in his arms. âLetâs go home!â
As per tradition, the bride and groom were expected to say goodbye to their parents before departing. Concerned that Harlee hadnât eaten adequately, Lonnie and Skyla simplified the process and insisted they have a meal.
âDonât worry too much about the formalities. Nyomi has prepared a lavish feast for both of you. Itâs important you eat well.â Skyla, holding Harleeâs and Rhysâ hands with a firm grip, led them toward the kitchen.
With a bright smile, she encouraged them, saying, âCome on. The food is excellent.â
Neither Harlee nor Rhys could decline her invitation. Together, the family enjoyed a hearty meal, and even Fletcher, usually so reserved, was visibly cheerful.
Soon, the crackers outside indicated it was time for the couple to leave for their new home.
Tears formed in Skylaâs eyes as she embraced Harlee tightly, hesitant to release her.
âTime has passed so quickly. It feels like I barely had the chance to cradle youâ¦â Skylaâs voice faltered with emotion.
Feeling the weight of the moment, Harlee replied with teary eyes, âMom, thereâs plenty of time ahead. Rhys and I will come to visit often.â
âReally?â Skyla gazed at Harlee.
Harlee wiped away Skylaâs tears and reassured her, âYes.â
A smile broke through Skylaâs tears as she slowly let Harlee go. âThatâs fabulous!â
The crackers were pulled with joy.
Rhys, holding Harlee, made a confident exit. As they emerged from the villa, Kane was ready to guide them to their car.
Leaning on Lonnie for support, Skylaâs eyes remained tearful. âEven though Harlee promised to visit, it still feelsâ¦â
Lonnie offered comfort with a gentle pat on her back. âShe may be married now, but she remains our daughter. Thereâs no need to worry.â Yet, his own eyes were not free from tears of reluctance.
Harlee was struck with surprise as she neared the wedding car. Each car in the long procession was decked with pink roses and glimmering displays that made them sparkle like stars in the night sky. Rhys knew of her fondness for pink roses.
A trail of the same flowers paved the ground, each one a promise of joyful days to come.
Even Harlee, no stranger to extravagance, was caught off guard by the spectacle. She threw her arms around Rhysâ neck and kissed him. âI love it,â she whispered.
Rhys gazed down at her, a look of quiet pride filling his eyes. âYouâll adore every day we share from now on because Iâll make sure of it.â
.
.
.