Chapter 9
I rolled up the window, shutting him out-shutting us into two completely separate worlds.
“Drive.”
The car pulled away.
Julian tried to chase after it, but no matter how fast he ran, he couldn’t catch up…
At the wedding venue, Liam noticed something in my expression and gently wrapped an arm around my waist.
“What’s wrong?” he asked softly.
I took his hand and gave a faint smile.
“Nothing. Just ran into someone completely irrelevant.”
He studied me for a moment. He must’ve sensed something-but didn’t push.
“Do you want me to take care of it?” he asked quietly.
I shook my head.
“No need. It’s already been handled.”
Just then, my phone lit up with a breaking news alert.
Sterling Group on the brink of bankruptcy due to collapsed capital chain.
Vanessa arrested for embezzling millions in company funds. Facing life in prison.
I looked at the screen, and let out a soft chuckle.
Soon, the ceremony began.
Liam took my hand, and together we walked toward the stage-step by step.
The breeze caught the hem of my gown, letting the silk and lace ripple like a whisper of light.
It was breathtaking.
As we stood before the altar, ready to exchange rings, I caught sight of a familiar silhouette in my peripheral vision.
He was standing far away-outside the crowd, beyond the archway-his posture solemn, his gaze full of regret.
Liam must’ve sensed it too.
He turned slightly, followed my line of sight, and then smiled knowingly.
Then he leaned in and asked, “Noelle, do you regret walking away from the Sterlings back then?”
Chapter 9
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I didn’t answer.
Instead, I rose onto my toes and kissed him.
It was soft, steady, and sure.
A kiss that spoke louder than words.
A declaration-not just to him, but to the world.
Applause erupted below the stage. Cheers and blessings filled the room.
And when I looked up again… that familiar figure had already turned and walked away.
His back looked thinner than I remembered.
Lonelier.
He disappeared into the crowd without another glance.
The wedding continued, lively and full of joy.
But a small ripple lingered in my heart.
Julian’s appearance had been a silent farewell.
A final glance at a life that no longer belonged to me.
And I didn’t regret my choice. Not even for a second.
Liam tightened his grip on my hand, his fingers warm and steady.
I looked up at him.
His gaze was clear and unwavering.
I drew in a deep breath, let the last remnants of the past go, and smiled at him with peace in my heart.
“The road ahead is long,” I said. “Let’s walk it together, shall we?”
Liam’s eyes shimmered faintly with tears.
He nodded.
“Always.”
