Epilogue
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.
“You look beautiful, Harley,” he says, his voice thick with emotion.
“Thank you, Da.” I walk over and hug him tightly. “Thank you for being here.”
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss this for the world.” He pulls back, looking at me with pride. “Are you ready?”
I nod, taking a deep breath. “I am.”
The walk down to the garden, where the ceremony is taking place, feels surreal. Every step brings me closer to the future I’d always hoped for. I can hear the murmur of voices and the soft strains of music, and my heart begins to race as the anticipation builds.
The garden has been transformed for the ceremony. Rows of chairs are set up on either side of a central aisle that’s been adorned with flowers. The bikers, my new family, stand on either side, dressed in their cuts, which adds a unique and personal touch to the ceremony. Their presence is a reminder of the life I am committing to.
I can see Hadrian standing at the altar, his back turned to me. My heart thrums wildly as I realise this is it. The rest of my life is starting now.
My father takes my arm, and we begin our walk down the aisle. The bikers nod at me as I pass, their expressions warm and supportive. It’s a surreal moment, knowing these men, who live such tough lives, are here to celebrate love.
As we reach the end of the aisle, Hadrian turns to me, and the look in his eyes takes my breath away. There’s so much love and adoration there, and all my nerves melt away.
The officiant smiles as we reach the altar. My father gives my hand one last squeeze before placing it in Hadrian’s. “Take care of her,” he says to Hadrian, who nods solemnly.
“I will. Always.”
We face each other, and the world around us fades away. It’s just Hadrian and me, two souls intertwining.
The officiant begins the ceremony, but his words are a blur. All I can focus on is Hadrian, the love of my life. His hand grips mine, strong and reassuring. When it’s time for our vows, I take a deep breath, looking into his eyes.
“Hadrian, you came into my life when I least expected it. You’ve shown me a love that is fierce and unyielding. It’s a love that has stood the test of time. I promise to stand by you, to love you unconditionally, and to be your partner in every adventure life throws our way. Today, I give you my heart, my soul, and my forever.”
Hadrian’s eyes glisten with unshed tears as he begins his vows. “Harley, from the moment I met you, I knew my life would never be the same. You are my strength, my light, and my reason for being. I promise to protect you, to cherish you, and to love you with everything I have. Today, I give you all that I am and all that I will be.”
The officiant smiles warmly. “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”
Hadrian pulls me close, his lips capturing mine in a kiss that seals our vows. The cheers and applause of our friends and family surround us, but all I can focus on is him.
As we walk back down the aisle, hand in hand, I feel a sense of completeness. The garden, the bikers, and the flowers all fade into the background. All that matters is that we are together, ready to face whatever comes our way.
The reception that follows in the clubhouse is a blur of laughter, dancing, and celebration. The bikers are in high spirits, their rough edges softened by the joy of the day. Miren and Monster share a dance, and their love is evident in the way they move together. I’m swept up in the happiness of the occasion, and my heart is full.
Hadrian pulls me into a slow dance, his arms wrapping around me. “How are you feeling, Mrs Quinn?”
I smile up at him. “Happy. So incredibly happy.”
He leans down, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “Me too, love. Me too.”
As the night wears on, I find a moment to slip away, needing a breath of fresh air. I step out into the cool night, the stars twinkling overhead. The garden is quiet now, and a peaceful contrast to the lively reception inside.
Hadrian finds me and wraps his arms around my waist from behind. “There you are. I was wondering where you’d gone.”
“I just needed a moment,” I say, leaning back into him. “It’s been such a perfect day.”
He kisses my neck, sending shivers down my spine. “It has. And it’s just the beginning, Harley. We have a whole lifetime ahead of us.”
I turn in his arms, looking up at him. “I can’t wait.”
He smiles, and in that moment, I know that no matter what challenges we face, our love will remain strong, unbreakable. Together, we can conquer anything.
As we stand there, wrapped in each other’s embrace, I feel a sense of peace settle over me. This is where I belong.
With him.
Always.