Total pages in book: 57
Estimated words: 52932 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 265(@200wpm)___ 212(@250wpm)___ 176(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 52932 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 265(@200wpm)___ 212(@250wpm)___ 176(@300wpm)
“Do you remember the forest we used to run to when Dad was in one of his moods?” Hades asks, a nostalgic smile on his lips. “We’d pretend it was our kingdom, and we were the rulers.”
I laugh, the memories flooding back. “How could I forget? You were always the fearless leader, and I was your loyal second-in-command.”
“We did have some good times,” Hades says, his smile fading slightly. “Things were simpler then.”
“They were,” I agree, a hint of melancholy in my voice. “But we’ve grown and become who we were meant to be, haven’t we? And now with Dad dead, we can live our lives free of his shadow.”
Hades looks at me with a serious expression. “You’re about to start a whole new chapter, Hadrian. A life with Harley. Are you ready for that?”
I think about it for a moment, the future stretching out before me like an uncharted path. “I am,” I reply, with confidence in my voice.
He claps me on the shoulder, his touch reassuring. “Then you’re going to be just fine. Both of you.”
We sit talking about the future for a while longer. It’s peaceful here. A perfect place to reflect on the past and contemplate what’s to come.
When we finally stand to leave, Hades turns to me, a mischievous glint in his eye. “So, when is the wedding? Have you set a date yet?”
I laugh, shaking my head. “Not yet. We’ve only just got engaged. Give us a little time to figure things out.”
He grins, clearly enjoying the moment. “Fair enough. But don’t take too long. I’m looking forward to celebrating with you both.”
“We won’t,” I promise. “I’ll make sure you’re the first to know. You’ll have to find a lovely lass to bring along as your date.”
“Oh, I’m not the kind who settles down, but I might invite a few pretty lassies to keep me occupied.” I know he’s joking, but I would like to see my brother fall in love. I want him to find happiness and settle down.
Ever since Harley agreed to marry me, everything seems brighter, more vibrant, as if the world itself is celebrating with me. I feel a sense of peace, of contentment.
As we’re making our way back to our bikes, Hades stops and looks at me, his expression serious once more. “Rev, I’m proud of you. For everything. You’ve come a long way, and I know you’ll make Harley incredibly happy.”
“Thank you, mate,” I say, my voice filled with gratitude. “That means a lot to me.”
We embrace once more, and then he’s gone, striding ahead towards his bike. I watch him go, feeling a swell of affection for my brother. He’s always been there for me, through thick and thin, and I know he always will.
I take one last look at the forest, our secret haven, and turn to follow him. There’s a new chapter waiting to be written, and I’m ready to meet it head-on.
EPILOGUE
HARLEY
The morning sun filters through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. When we decided to get married in Belfast, I wanted our celebrations to take place at the clubhouse. I thought it would make for a ideal venue.
I’ve never been one of those girls who envisioned my wedding day, but right now, as I peek out at the beautifully decorated lawn, I know it’s perfect for Hadrian and me.
I take a deep breath, trying to steady the whirlwind of emotions inside me. Today is the day. My wedding day. A mix of excitement and nerves courses through me as I look at the dress hanging on the wardrobe door.
It’s a beautiful, mermaid-cut gown with intricate lace detailing that covers the bodice and trails down to the skirt. I run my fingers over the off-white fabric, marvelling at its beauty. This dress symbolises the beginning of the rest of my life.
Miren, Monster’s wife and now my dear friend, enters the room with a bright smile. “How are you feeling, love?”
I smile back, trying to hide my nerves. “Excited and terrified all at once.”
She chuckles. “That’s normal. But trust me, once you walk down that aisle and see Rev waiting for you, all those nerves will disappear.”
Miren helps me into the dress, carefully fastening the buttons at the back. Once it’s on, she steps back and admires the final result. “You look stunning, Harley.”
“Thank you,” I say, my voice a little shaky. “For everything.”
She nods, her eyes warm. “It’s been a pleasure. Now let’s get that tiara on.”
She gently places the jewelled band on my head, adjusting it until it sits perfectly. I glance at myself in the mirror, hardly recognising the woman staring back. Today, I am a bride.
There’s a soft knock on the door, and my father steps in. His eyes widen when he sees me, and I can see tears welling up in his eyes.