Chapter 38: The Union of Two Hearts

The Aetherwind estate shimmered under the sun, a perfect halo encircling a day dedicated to love and celebration—the engagement of Leo and Roxanne.

The air was charged with excitement as guests from noble families gathered, each offering their support and blessings to the couple destined to become one.

As Leo stood at the altar, anticipation swelled within him.

Today marked not just a union of two hearts, but the beginning of a unique journey.

He glanced at Roxanne, standing across from him, radiating with grace and beauty.

It was as if the universe had aligned for them; they felt made for one another.

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Emotional Moments

As the ceremony began, the officiant's voice echoed in the air, filled with the weight of meaning.

Leo felt the warmth of encouragement from those who had come to witness their vows.

Among the crowd, emotions ran deep, particularly for Roxanne's father, Rio.

A glimmer of tears filled his eyes as he watched his daughter ready to step into this monumental chapter of her life.

"Oh, how quickly they grow," he murmured.

Memories flooded his mind—his little girl playing in the garden, the milestones they shared.

Roxanne had blossomed into a remarkable woman, ready to take on the world with the man she loved.

In that moment, tears escaped his eyes, reflecting both pride and heartache for the journey ahead.

On the opposite side, Elena Skydawn, Leo's mother, felt a similar surge of emotion as she watched her son.

Leo had grown into an impressive young man, full of promise and passion, poised to embark on life with a perfect partner.

"My dear Leo," she whispered softly, wiping away tears of joy.

"You deserve every happiness with this beautiful girl."

As they stood before friends and family, Elena's heart brimmed with hope for their future together—a future she longed to see unfold quickly.

"We should consider making plans for the wedding sooner rather than later," she remarked eagerly.

However, Leo, a mix of excitement and trepidation churning within him, objected, "Mom, we're still kids! We've barely started our lives."

Without missing a beat, Roxanne chimed in, "But we already did that!" her voice teasing, before Leo instinctively covered her mouth, his cheeks aflame.

The spectators around them chuckled, the levity drawing smiles across faces.

However, their laughter quickly faded into the tension that echoed from Rio.

"How dare you take advantage of my sister!" he roared, stepping forward with ferocity, directed at Leo.

"I will skin you alive!"

In an unexpected burst of laughter and defiance, Roxanne punched her brother lightly, sending him comically tumbling through the air, landing with a flourish.

The crowd erupted in laughter, the initial tension dissipating into joyous celebration.

The atmosphere was relaxed and harmonious, and as they exchanged vows, love swirled around them like a gentle breeze dancing through spring petals.

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A Celebration of Unity

With the vows exchanged and rings placed, the engagement was officially sealed, and cheers erupted from the guests.

The engagement mood had shifted into one of pure joy and celebration, and the couple basked in the warmth of their future.

As the festivities continued, it was time for noble families to present their gifts.

First to step up was Lord Tideweaver, head of the Tideweaver family, a clan known for their powerful naval influence.

He presented the couple with a beautifully crafted compass.

"May it always guide you through life's adventures together."

Next, Lady Stonehart of the Stonehart family, famed for their mining and wealth, bestowed exquisite gemstone earrings upon Roxanne.

"May they remind you of the brilliance of your union," she said with a smile.

The Emberfall family followed, with Lord Emberfall presenting a pair of ceremonial swords.

"May your love be as strong and unbreakable as these blades," he intoned.

Lady Frostborne stepped forward with luxurious cloaks that promised warmth in the cold of night.

"May you always find comfort in each other's love," she said softly.

Lord Stormvale offered a sparkling chalice for their future celebrations.

The Ashensteel family gifted a protective amulet.

The Ironfang patriarch presented a beautifully forged shield, symbolizing strength and defense against any challenges they may face.

Finally, Lord Dawnbreak came forth, presenting a grand tome filled with the wisdom of their ancestors.

"May it guide you through every trial with hope and enlightenment," he wished warmly.

Every offering exemplified the unity and support that the families were eager to provide, intertwining their legacies through this marriage.

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A Rising Tension

As the evening drew on, the celebrations had created an illusion of harmony; however, tensions simmered.

Once the guests began to depart, Lucas steered Elena away from the lingering crowd, his demeanor shifting from jubilant to serious.

"Elena, we must discuss this engagement," Lucas stated firmly.

"What is going on with Leo's hasty decision to marry Roxanne? This cannot simply be celebrated without consideration of family."

Elena shrugged, dismissing his concern.

"I think it's wonderful. He's found love; we should encourage it."

Lucas shook his head.

"This feels rushed. What about Sophia and Zoe? They are feeling forgotten. This is about our entire family, not just Leo and his new wife."

"Leo's happiness should come first," Elena insisted.

"What can be more important?"

"Those girls deserve just as much attention," Lucas replied, frustration growing.

"You've shifted your focus solely to Leo for too long, Elena. You've forgotten about our daughters!"

Elena's expression hardened.

"They are not my daughters. They are adopted."

"We have raised them as your own! They are part of this family!" Lucas voice rose, the weight of their unsaid issues coming to a head.

"Do not bring this up now, especially not during Leo's engagement," Elena snapped, but the hurt was evident in her eyes.

The conversation was interrupted by the gathering of guests around the departing vehicles, bustling with excitement.

Yet the two of them remained detached from the revelry, their argument simmering just beneath the surface.

"Elena, you have changed since the adoption. You and I both know it," Lucas continued, his voice low but intense.

"You've become a different woman who hardly cares about our daughters. How can you not see that they need you? Your time, your love?"

"I provide for this family!" Elena shot back, frustration palpable in her tone.

She was defensive, adamantly protective of the actions she had taken in raising Leo.

"And just because you don't like the arrangement does not mean I will comply with your whims."

"It is not whims; it's about family! I don't want Leo to be consumed by this engagement only to realize he has alienated his sisters. If he marries Roxanne, it cannot come at the expense of our entire family! You don't even care what happens next! If Leo wants to rush into marriage, then he should think of Selena too. What will you say to her?"

"Do you intend to throw things aside for one child over the others?" Lucas countered, his voice thick with bitterness. "After how you abandoned your role as a mother to them? You should take responsibility and hold Leo accountable for his choices!"

Just then, Leo rejoined them, sensing the charged atmosphere...