Chapter Eighty-Six: Ceremony Part Two

Kiara POV: A new chapter begins in my life, but not one I've chosen. Aiden leads me through the sprawling backyard, his arm around my waist, gripping just a little too tightly. I can tell he's showing off, proud of the elaborate decorations and arrangements made for this evening's ceremony. Fairy lights are woven between the trees, casting an ethereal glow over the proceedings. Beautiful floral arrangements rest on white-clothed tables, and the altar ahead is adorned with an array of flowers and vines. To anyone else, it might look like a scene from a dream, but to me, it's nothing short of a nightmare. "As you can see, everything is perfect, Kiara," Aiden says, squeezing my waist for emphasis. "It's beautiful," I reply. Though the word leaves a bitter taste in my mouth, the harder he tries to impress me, the angrier I get. The beauty of the setting only fuels my resentment. I can't help but think of Kayden and Jayden. Goddess, how I miss them. Despite their flaws and the complicated m