The night before the wedding, Anna's friends organized a small pre-wedding celebration at a cozy rooftop lounge. Fairy lights twinkled above them, casting a soft glow over the group. Soft music played in the background, and the air buzzed with laughter, teasing, and joy.
Anna, in a simple yet elegant lavender dress, entered with Oliver at her side. He held her hand firmly, a proud smile on his face.
"Wow… you really do look amazing," Oliver whispered, leaning close.
Anna smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm starting to believe you say that too often."
"Can't help it," he replied with a playful wink. "It's the truth."
Emily and Sophia were already waiting, giggling as they waved her over.
"Anna! You're stunning!" Emily exclaimed. "And Oliver, you better not embarrass her tonight!"
Oliver chuckled. "I'll behave… mostly."
Sophia leaned closer to Anna and whispered, "Careful, I think someone is already jealous of how cute you two are tonight."
Anna followed her gaze to see Mr. Carter's assistant discreetly observing the couple from a corner, a faint smirk on his face.
The evening went on with games, music, and light-hearted teasing. At one point, Emily dared Anna to dance with Oliver in the middle of the lounge.
"I don't need a dare," Oliver said, taking her hand. "I've been waiting for this all day."
They moved to the center, swaying gently to the music. The world around them blurred. Laughter, lights, and chatter faded. It was just them, smiling, holding each other close.
"Do you remember our first dance at the engagement celebration?" Anna asked quietly.
"How could I forget?" Oliver replied, brushing his lips softly against her temple. "I was nervous, and you looked like a dream."
Anna laughed softly. "I still think about it sometimes. How far we've come… and how much we waited."
Later, on a quiet balcony, Anna and Oliver found themselves alone. The city lights shimmered like stars below.
"I can't believe tomorrow is the wedding," Anna murmured.
"Me neither," Oliver said softly. "It feels surreal… but perfect."
Anna looked at him, her eyes shining. "No matter what happens tomorrow, or after… I just want us to stay like this. Together."
Oliver pulled her close, resting his forehead against hers. "Always. Forever, no matter what."
He kissed her slowly — soft, lingering, a promise more than a gesture. Anna felt her heart swell. In that single kiss, every worry, every shadow, every rivalry disappeared.
For a moment, nothing existed but them — their love, ten years in the making, stronger than ever, ready to face tomorrow and every day after.
💙✨