Chapter 8 Untimely Objection

Finally, the day had come for Tom and Katy to be joined together in holy matrimony. Every detail-from the intricate floral arrangements to the selection of food and drinks-had been meticulously prepared. Katy had overseen it all, ensuring her vision for a perfect day came to life.

In her hotel room, the bride-to-be was surrounded by her closest friends. The atmosphere was lively as her bridesmaids chattered away, working on their hair and makeup. Katy sat at the center of it all, the soft hum of a hairdryer and laughter filling the air.

She had enlisted the help of a professional stylist and makeup artist for the occasion. Though her face bore a radiant smile, her nervousness was evident. Her hands fidgeted slightly, betraying the emotions she tried to mask.

Julia leaned over the vanity, meeting Katy's eyes in the mirror. "You know," she began with a teasing tone, "it's not too late to change your mind. We could still escape this whole thing and-"

"Julia," Katy interrupted with a wide grin, sending her friend a silent but firm stop-it message. "I want to do this. Really."

Julia returned her smile and moved back to fix her hair, though the mischievous sparkle in her eyes remained.

The conversation shifted to the events of the previous night.

"Mia," Sam began with a curious tilt of her head, "what's the update with Kelvin? Is he coming today?"

Mia smirked, pausing mid-curl. "Not only is he coming, but he asked if we could have dinner next weekend. Guess this wedding might be my lucky charm."

The girls erupted into cheers, their excitement filling the room. Julia groaned dramatically. "Why am I the only single one left? Maybe I should just marry my independence at this point."

Their collective laughter brought a moment of ease to Katy, who sat quietly, lost in her thoughts.

Soon, the makeup artist put the finishing touches on Katy's face. Her bridesmaids stepped back, their expressions shifting to awe.

"Katy..." Sam whispered, eyes wide, "you look..."

"...perfect," Mia finished, a tear slipping down her cheek.

Katy turned toward the full-length mirror, taking in her reflection. Her makeup was understated but elegant, highlighting her natural beauty. Her hair had been swept into a polished updo, adorned with delicate silver pins that glinted in the soft light. And her gown-a stunning creation of lace and silk-fit her like a dream.

"How did I become this beautiful?" she murmured.

"You've always been," Julia said softly.

A knock interrupted the moment. Sonia, a cousin and bridesmaid, stepped inside. Her gaze swept over Katy, lingering just a second longer than necessary.

"Wow," she said, her voice measured. "That's a lovely dress."

Though her tone bordered on patronizing, Katy took the comment with a smile.

"The car's here," Sonia added, stepping aside. "Time to make an entrance."

Katy gathered her bouquet and turned to her bridesmaids. "Let's do this."

~~~

Outside the cathedral, Katy stood with her parents. The grandeur of the moment was overwhelming. Her mother, Lucy, took both her hands and kissed her cheeks.

"You're stunning, my darling," Lucy said. "Just remember to breathe. This is your moment. And if you can win Miss California, you can definitely handle this."

Her father, James, offered her his arm, a steadying presence.

"Katy, are you ready?"

She nodded, a tentative but determined smile on her face.

As the grand doors opened, the swell of classical music filled the air. Guests rose to their feet in unison, turning to watch as Katy and James began their procession down the rose-petal-strewn aisle.

At the altar, Tom stood waiting, his eyes lighting up the moment he saw her. When she finally reached him, James kissed her cheek before stepping aside.

"You look stunning," Tom whispered. "I love the dress."

She ducked her head shyly, unable to suppress her smile.

The priest began his address, his voice calm and measured. "We gather here today to unite these two people in holy matrimony..."

As the ceremony progressed, Katy felt the knots in her stomach ease. She smiled at Tom, their hands joined as they repeated their vows.

"If anyone can show just cause why these two should not be joined in marriage, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."

A heavy silence followed. Then, a voice rang out, cutting through the stillness.

"I object."

Gasps rippled through the congregation as heads turned, searching for the source.

A man stepped forward from the back of the cathedral. Tall, confident, and dressed in a sleek black suit, he commanded attention with every step.

"Dario?" Katy whispered, her voice barely audible.

Tom's grip on her hand tightened. "Katy...who is this?"

Katy's heart raced as the man approached. Her past had come crashing into her present, and every eye in the room was now on her.

The tension in the cathedral was palpable.