บท 17: Wedding and funeral
Saturday
The day of Jess and Gerald's wedding dawned bright and clear.( The wedding was actually really close they tried to reach Nev a couple times earlier but failed.)
The small venue they had chosen was a charming garden, surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery. White chairs were arranged in neat rows, leading up to a simple yet elegant arch adorned with delicate white roses and ivy.
The air was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze.
As guests took their seats, a sense of anticipation filled the air.
Jess, radiant in a flowing white gown, made her way down the aisle on her mother's arm. Her dress, simple yet stunning, featured intricate lace details and a long, graceful train. Gerald stood at the altar, his eyes locked on Jess, a look of pride and infatuation on his face. He wore a classic black suit, perfectly tailored, with a white rose pinned to his lapel.
The ceremony began with the officiant welcoming everyone and speaking about the journey that had brought Jess and Gerald to this moment. Then, it was time for the vows.
Gerald took Jess's hands in his, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Jess, from the moment I met you, I knew you were the one I wanted to spend my life with. You are my best friend, my confidant, and my greatest love. I promise to stand by your side through all of life's challenges and to celebrate every joy with you. I vow to love you unconditionally, to support your dreams, and to cherish every moment we share. Today, I give you my heart, my soul, and my forever."
Tears glistened in Jess's eyes as she began her vows. "Gerald, you have brought so much joy and love into my life. You are my rock, my partner, and my greatest adventure. I promise to love you with all my heart, to stand by you in times of trouble, and to celebrate with you in times of happiness. I vow to be your biggest supporter, your confidant, and your best friend. Today, I give you my heart, my soul, and my forever."
As they exchanged rings, the guests couldn't help but be moved by the sincerity and depth of their love. The officiant pronounced them husband and wife, and they shared a tender kiss, sealing their vows.
After the ceremony, the guests moved to a nearby tent for the reception. The tent was beautifully decorated with fairy lights and floral arrangements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tables were set with crisp white linens, elegant centerpieces, and flickering candles. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air as everyone celebrated the newlyweds.
Neville, sat at a table in the corner, away from the main festivities. He had chosen a spot where he could observe without being noticed.
His mutual friends with Jess were awkward around him, unsure of how to interact, so they opted to avoid him. Neville didn't mind; he preferred the solitude, besides his mind wasn't in the greatest state. Throughout the week he had been trying not to lose himself but today's event brought him to the edge.
The reception was filled with heartfelt toasts, delicious food, and plenty of dancing. Jess and Gerald shared their first dance as husband and wife, swaying to a romantic melody under the twinkling lights. Guests joined in, filling the dance floor with joy and celebration.
As the night wore on, the party moved outside to a cozy fire pit. Guests gathered around, sharing stories and laughter, toasting marshmallows, and enjoying the warmth of the fire. Neville remained on the outskirts, nursing a drink and watching the flames flicker. He felt a pang of loneliness, but he was determined not to let it overshadow the happiness of the day.
Gerald and Jess noticed him sitting alone and made their way over to him. Gerald placed a hand on his shoulder, giving him a warm smile. "Thank you for being here, Neville. It means a lot to me."
Neville returned her smile, making his signature smile. "Of course."
Teresa ofcourse noticed this but chose to say nothing. She as well avoided Neville the entire day.
As the evening drew to a close, the guests began to trickle away, leaving Jess and Gerald to enjoy their first night as a married couple. Neville lingered for a moment, watching his brother and his new wife share a quiet moment by the fire.
With a final glance at the glowing embers, Neville turned and walked away, the sounds of laughter and celebration fading behind him. He finally made a choice of what he was going to do...
******************************
The Blaire family held a small funeral for Edward, a man they were not particularly close to, but whose death required a show of respect for appearances' sake. The ceremony was understated, attended by a few close associates and family members. The atmosphere was somber, but there was an underlying sense of detachment. Moira and Ophelia stood side by side, their expressions composed, as they accepted condolences with polite nods.
As the day turned to night, the Blaire residence grew quiet. The guests had left, and the family retreated to their private quarters. The stillness was interrupted by the sound of a car pulling up to the gate. A woman stepped out, her posture confident and her expression determined. She approached the gate, where a guard immediately stopped her.
"I need to speak with the Blaires," she insisted, her voice firm.
The guard eyed her suspiciously but then recognized her. She was the secretary, the woman who had been involved with Edward. Her haughty demeanor did little to endear her to the guard, but he knew better than to turn her away without consulting the family. He radioed in, and after a brief exchange, he opened the gate.
The woman walked up the driveway, her heels clicking against the pavement. She was led into the house and soon found herself in the presence of Moira and Ophelia. The two women sat in the drawing room, their gazes cold and oppressive. The secretary hesitated for a moment but then mustered up her courage.
"I'm pregnant," she declared, her voice trembling slightly. "The child is Edward's."
สถานะพลังงานรายสัปดาห์
-- การจัดอันดับด้วยพลัง 
-- หินพลัง