Chapter 9 - The Promise in Vermont
Spring arrived in New England, bringing vibrant green shoots, warm breezes, and clear blue skies.
Three months after Arthur’s arrest and the complete purging of the old guard at Vale International, a small, white wooden chapel sat nestled in the rolling green hills of Vermont.
It was the very same chapel where, five years earlier, Sebastian and Maya had secretly exchanged vows in front of an elderly justice of the peace with no family present.
Today, the chapel was decorated with simple white roses and green garlands.
Inside, sitting on the front wooden pew, was Eleanor Vale, holding a digital camera, smiling brightly as she chatted with the local priest.
In the small dressing room at the back, Maya stood in front of a floor-to-ceiling mirror. She wore a simple, breathtaking ivory silk dress that draped gracefully over her frame. Her dark hair was styled in soft waves, pinned back with silver clips.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
Sebastian walked in. He wore a crisp dark blue suit, a white rose pinned to his lapel.
He stopped in the doorway, staring at her, his breath catching in his throat just like it had five years ago.
"You look..." Sebastian swallowed hard, walking toward her, his gray eyes shining with overwhelming devotion. "You look impossible, Maya."
Maya turned to face him, a gentle, beautiful smile lighting up her face. "You aren't supposed to see the bride before the ceremony, Mr. Vale."
"I waited four years to see you in this dress," Sebastian said softly, stepping close enough to wrap his arms around her waist, pulling her gentle frame against his chest. "I’m not waiting another minute."
Maya rested her hands against his lapels, looking up into the eyes she had loved for so long. "Is everything ready?"
"The kids are waiting outside," Sebastian smiled, kissing her forehead gently. "Owen is refusing to wear his bowtie, Ivy is trying to eat the flower petals, and Noah is giving Frank instructions on how to drive the wedding car."
Maya laughed—a pure, happy sound that filled the small room.
"Sebastian," she said softly, her expression turning serious as she looked deep into his eyes. "Are you sure about this? A quiet life in Connecticut? Stepping down as full-time CEO?"
May you like
Sebastian leaned down, pressing his lips gently against hers in a long, lingering kiss that tasted of sweet promise and absolute devotion.
"I spent four years running an empire, Maya," he whispered against her lips when he pulled back. "And none of it meant anything without you. My real empire is right here. You, and our children."
