Chapter 12

The sun had poured in through the windows of Ryina's living room, casting its golden light over the table at which she sat with Frank, surrounded by wedding planning documents. The room was alive with anticipation and the slight perfume of freshly made coffee. The last few weeks had been a blur of preparation, and this day was not an exception. They had a long list of choices before them, and time was running out.

Ryina glanced over at Frank, who was intently concentrating on a stack of venue brochures. His forehead was furrowed in seriousness, and she couldn't help but smile at the picture. He'd been her rock throughout it all, and now, wedding planning, his support was more crucial than ever.

"Okay," Ryina broke the silence. "Let's start with the venue. We have a couple of options here."

Frank looked up, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Yes, let's do it. I adore the thought of hosting it on the lakeside. It's so peaceful and beautiful."

Ryina nodded, going through the brochures. "I understand what you're saying. The lakeside setting does seem appealing. But we also need to consider the guest list. How many guests do you think we should invite?"

Frank leaned back in his chair, tapping his chin. "I was thinking, though, we could just do it small. Just immediate family and friends. Fifty people?"

Ryina nodded, scribbling away. "That sounds amazing. It'll make the day just feel so personal and special."

They spent the next hour going over the details, from the color palette to the catering. Ryina was a proponent of understated elegance throughout, and Frank appeared to be sympathetic. They chose a subdued, pastel color palette and touches of greenery to give the wedding a natural, earthy feel.

As they proceeded to the guest list, Ryina experienced a feeling of sadness. She knew that inviting her family from the Crimson Pack over would be an issue, especially with the latest news regarding Ethan. But she knew that Frank would be on her side no matter what.

"Hey," Frank whispered quietly, noticing her hesitation. "We don't have to ask anyone we don't want to. It's our wedding day, and we can do what we please." 

Ryina smiled, loving his sensitivity. "I know. I just. I miss my mom sometimes. And I wish things had been different with my stepmother and Lydia."

Frank leaned over the table and took her hand. "I know, Ryina. But you've built a new family here. And I'm honored to be a part of it."

Ryina held his hand, her heart full of love and thankfulness. "Thank you, Frank. I don't know where I'd be without you."

They continued to plan, their energy building with each decision. They chose a local florist that did wildflowers, just as down-home as they were. They even decided on a three-course meal with local cuisine and a dessert bar overflowing with Ryina's favorite treats.

As the day progressed, they had lunch at a café in the town. The heat of the sun and the voices of the crowd around them helped Ryina to feel normal and content. She couldn't remember ever feeling this calm.

"Are you happy, Ryina?" Frank asked, gazing into her eyes.

Ryina smiled, her heart filling with love. "I am. I've never been happier. Thanks for being at my side."

Frank leaned in, kissing her softly on the lips. "I'd be anywhere else," he whispered.

They returned home after lunch, looking forward to tackling the following set of wedding arrangements. In the evening, they discussed the music, picking a mix of classical and contemporary songs for the reception. Ryina loved to dance, and the prospect of doing that with Frank caused her heart to beat rapidly with eagerness.

As they eventually called it a day, Ryina couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. They had worked so hard, and the wedding was already starting to feel real. She just couldn't wait to start the next stage of her life with Frank by her side.

That night, when she retired, Ryina felt a sense of peace. The past weeks had been a whirlwind, but now she was ready for whatever lay ahead. With Frank's dedication and support, she felt she could overcome anything. And as she slept, she dreamed of their wedding day, which was full of love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

The weeks leading up to the wedding flew by so rapidly in a blur of expectation and preparation. Ryina and Frank were ever so closely involved, making decisions and cementing arrangements. There were minor hiccups along the way—choosing the perfect dress, coordinating schedules, and navigating the occasional vendor snafu—but throughout it all, their love and commitment only grew stronger.

As the wedding day came near, Ryina could not help but gaze at where she had reached. From the trials and tribulations of her childhood to the triumphs of her public and personal life, each hurdle had encountered its match in her determination and grit. And now, set to marry her ideal man, she was ready to embrace the future to herself.