Chapter 146: Ash and Elijah’s wedding
The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue across the private island’s beach. Waves gently lapping at the shore, a soft symphony of nature playing in the background.
The aisle was lined with white rose petals, forming a delicate path that led toward a simple yet elegant altar draped in flowing white fabric, fluttering softly in the ocean breeze. It was an intimate setting, surrounded by palm trees swaying gently, and only the closest of friends had gathered, their faces lit with joy and anticipation.
Ash stood just beyond the aisle, heart pounding in his chest. Dressed in a light beige suit that complemented his beauty, he looked dashing yet nervous. His dark hair was neatly styled, though he kept running his hand through it as if trying to find some control over his racing thoughts. His white dress shirt was open at the collar, forgoing the traditional tie in favor of a more relaxed, beach-appropriate look. In his hands, he held a small bouquet of white lilies, his fingers trembling slightly around the stems.
Beside him, Noah offered his silent support. Noah’s suit was a deep charcoal grey, tailored perfectly to his fit frame, the sharp lines contrasting with Ash’s more casual look. As Ash adjusted his jacket for what felt like the hundredth time, Noah placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Stop fussing," Noah said, a teasing grin on his lips. "You look perfect."
Ash let out a nervous laugh, glancing down the aisle where Elijah was waiting. "Easy for you to say. You’re not about to get married."
Noah chuckled softly, pulling Ash into a brief, comforting hug. "Trust me, Elijah is the one who should be nervous. He’s marrying you. He’s the lucky one, remember that." His voice was light, but his words held genuine warmth.
Ash smiled, his nerves settling slightly. "Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you."
"You’d trip over your own feet and fall into the ocean," Noah teased causing Ash to let out a real laugh this time.
As the soft strains of music began to play, signaling the start of the ceremony, Noah hooked his arm through Ash’s. "Ready?"
Ash took a deep breath, then nodded. "Yeah. Let’s do this."