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

to steal a few moments

a machine

day ahead made her cherish every second of

increase in last-minute work had left

weary she looked and joked, "We could always call the

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

Jarrod's eyes, but he didn't seem bothered. "The result would

there was

for a fact the country's

powerful families had flown

everyone knew about it. The whole city was watching. There was no way to back out

hooking his pinky around hers as his gaze drifted to the wedding

oncher

important I need

to meet his, catching the

was set in

perfect, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and pure mountain

snowfall from two days ago blanketed everything in dazzling

way up the mountainside; the guests had nearly all

and her family beamed

talk with the guests. Esmeralda had arrived early and ran

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

word, they rushed to where Nadia's cradle stood, each grabbing