Chapter 3434:

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Soon after, the master of ceremonies raised his voice once more.

“At this time, the couple will bow to each other! May they walk side by side for all their years, united in harmony and devotion! The ceremony is now complete! With heaven and earth as witnesses and the sun and moon as proof, a perfect union is formed today! Let us wish the couple a lifetime of happiness and lasting love!”

Once the traditional rites concluded, the ceremony transitioned into a modern-style celebration. After the small reception ended, Elissa and the other girls stepped away to change into new outfits. As they walked, their conversation drifted back to Neville and the moment that had moved them all.

“It felt deeply touching.”

“Yes,” Colleen agreed with a small nod, her eyes still a little red.

𝗥ea𝘥 𝘁𝗵𝘦 𝗹𝗮𝘁eѕ𝗍 𝘵r𝘦n𝗱s оո g𝖺𝗹n𝘰ve𝘭s.𝘤𝘰𝗆

Before long, the modern-style wedding ceremony began.

Outside the hall, Neville had already taken his place and waited patiently for his daughter to appear. As her father, he would follow the customs of the modern ceremony — walking her down the aisle before placing her hand into her husband’s.

Slowly, the door opened.

Elissa emerged in a new look, dressed in the wedding gown she had designed herself.

Neville reached out his hand to her. “Elissa, come with me.”

“Very well.” Elissa gave a small smile, nodded, and slipped her arm through her father’s.

Petals and confetti filled the air as the wedding march echoed through the venue. Down the long carpet, Neville guided Elissa step by step.

Waiting at the far end of the aisle, Ernest stood on the stage and watched only her. Memories of their years together pressed into his heart, and his eyes slowly reddened as emotion rose from somewhere deep and unguarded. Known for his restraint, Ernest was already in tears before the bride even reached him.

Those seated below the stage quickly noticed. Curious looks passed from one person to another, followed by quiet murmurs.

“Look — Mr. Flynn is crying.”

“What brought that on?”

“He must be overcome with joy.”

Joy tugged lightly at Locke’s sleeve, confusion written all over her face. “What’s going on with Uncle Ernest? Is he feeling sad?”

Locke shook his head with a small frown. “No. My father is just very happy.”

Understanding didn’t quite reach Joy, but she nodded anyway. Since Locke believed it, she decided it had to be right.

At last, Neville guided Elissa to the front where Ernest stood waiting.

The sight of his tear-streaked face caught her off guard, and surprise flickered across her eyes. What had happened to him?

“Ernest.” Holding back his own emotion, Neville spoke gently. “From this moment on, I ask that you take good care of my daughter.”

“You have my word,” Ernest replied with a firm nod.

Neville guided Elissa’s hand into Ernest’s grasp. Their fingers remained joined, and their gazes stayed fixed on each other.

“You —” Elissa frowned slightly. “What happened?”

“I — I’m just really happy right now.” Ernest forced a smile through his tears, his voice thick with feeling. With trembling lips, he continued, “Elissa, marrying the person you love is joyful enough to make anyone cry.”

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