How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

She couldn't worry about the details now-whatever came up, Jarrod would handle it.

By the time Elodie finished her makeup and slipped into her wedding dress, it was already half past ten.

She patted her cheeks, trying to summon some energy.

Jarrod had changed too, now dressed in his tailored suit. He stood tall and striking —she rarely saw anyone pull off a suit quite like he did. The proportions had to be just right; a fraction off either way and the effect would be lost.

Jarrod strolled over, giving her a sidelong glance. "Ms. Thorne, try not to look so hungry. Have some dignity."

Elodie didn't bother feeling embarrassed.

After all these years of marriage, nothing surprised her anymore.

But she had to admit, she'd never stopped appreciating the way he looked.

Suddenly realizing they were pressed for time, she grabbed his arm and tugged him toward the door. "You look awfully relaxed for someone who's about to be late."

Jarrod caught her hand and steered her toward his car. "We're taking this one."

He led her to his Rolls-Royce. Elodie glanced at him, puzzled. “Aren't we supposed to take the wedding car?"

He raised an eyebrow, smirking. "No."

She didn't get it, but she was too tired to argue. With a yawn, she leaned back

eyes, determined to steal a few moments

she felt like a machine running

ahead made her cherish every second

in last-minute work had

she looked and joked, "We

eyes. "After going through all this trouble? Your grandmother would

didn't seem bothered. "The result

to admit, there was some truth to

this wedding was a grand affair. She knew for a fact the country's top media outlets had

powerful families had flown in from

everyone knew about it. The whole city

her hand, hooking his pinky around hers as his gaze

oncher

important I need

meet his, catching the hint of a

was set in

surrounded by breathtaking scenery and pure

fresh snowfall from two days ago

wound their way up the mountainside;

matriarch and her family beamed as they greeted

small talk with the

up, falling silent for a moment—then, as if on cue, they

rushed to where Nadia's cradle stood, each grabbing