Sunlight glinted off the extended Rolls-Royce as Ethan Sullivan carried Sophia Laurent into the bridal car.

The motorcade snaked toward the azure coastline like a shimmering dragon.

A cruise ship sounded its horn in celebration as the newlyweds approached.

Ocean breezes carried the scent of blooming flowers when they stepped onto the island.

Sophia's embroidered wedding gown shimmered with golden phoenix motifs under the sun.

"Too warm?" Ethan murmured against her temple.

She shook her head, fingertips tracing the pixiu embroidery on his lapel.

A cerulean castle rose beyond the palm groves.

Iris Evans pinched Zane Riveron's waist as she gaped at the ballroom overflowing with Ecuadorian roses.

"Our wedding will be just like this."

Zane flashed a roguish grin. "When you learn Sophia's grace, maybe."

"You—!" Iris stomped her foot in frustration.

Natalie Sullivan stifled laughter against Alexander Valentine's arm. "At least we're pure."

The banquet hall brimmed with high society's elite.

Beneath crystal chandeliers, William Sullivan beamed with unrestrained joy.

Audrey and Victor Sullivan occupied opposite ends of the room, tension thickening the air.

"Father." Sophia's soft address made Victor stiffen as he extended a red envelope.

Vincent Laurent narrowed his eyes when his phone screen lit with a security alert.

For the ceremony, Sophia changed into a celestial gown dusted with crystal constellations.

Ethan waited beneath the floral arch, his bowtie fluttering slightly.

Vincent placed his daughter's hand in Ethan's palm. "Treasure her."

The screens displayed a full moon photograph—three-year-old Ethan cradling an infant with snow-melting tenderness.

A tear splashed onto Sophia's beaded bodice.

Silence enveloped the guests when the blue diamond ring slid onto her finger.

"Through every lifetime." Ethan lifted her veil.

Salt-kissed wind swept petals across their joined lips.

Beneath a cascade of blossoms, they sealed their eternal vow.