Epilogue - Chloe
T he vista in front of me is a riot of color, the vibrant hues of Mexican flowers, cosmos and dahlias, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our wedding.
Diego’s garden, once a place of solace and reflection, has been transformed into a scene of celebration and joy. Paper lanterns sway gently in the evening breeze, casting a soft, warm light over the guests seated on wooden chairs adorned with ribbons and flowers.
Standing at the entrance to the garden, I take a deep breath to steady my nerves. My white dress is light and airy, a simple yet elegant design that flows around me with every step I take. The fabric is soft against my skin, a stark contrast to the rough edges of my past. Today is a new beginning, a day filled with love and hope.
Diego is standing at the altar, looking dashing in his cream-colored linen suit with his dark hair neatly combed. When he sees me, he gives me a wide smile, full of affection. My heart swells with love and gratitude, knowing he is my future.
I begin my walk down the aisle, accompanied by my father and mother, one on either side of me. I asked them both to give me away because I couldn’t choose between them. I’ll be forever grateful to my parents for the love and support they’ve given me throughout my life, and I was thrilled when they told me they’ve decided to give up their lives in England for six months every year to spend time with me here.
I see the faces of our family and friends as I walk. Eaton and Shelby stand together, their smiles warm. Shelby’s eyes are misty with tears of happiness, and Eaton gives me an encouraging nod. It’s a quick and discreet gesture, typical of him.
A face in the crowd has me pause for a moment. I didn’t expect to see Marie Jose here today. The elderly lady who attended to me when I was in captivity is now Sister Maria. I haven’t seen or spoken to her since I was rescued.
Eaton explained to me that she’d been sold to my captor and forced to work for him against her will. She told Eaton that she’d wanted to help me and the other slaves, but she was punished every time she tried. After she was rescued, she entered a convent and took her vows to atone for what she perceived as her sins. Eaton tried to persuade her that she had nothing to feel guilty about, but she told him it’s where she feels safest.
Serena is here too, her hand resting gently on her swollen belly. Felix is standing beside her, his arm wrapped protectively around her shoulders. She’s improving every day, but she’s still not back to her full strength. Her face is a picture of serenity. I’m overwhelmed with emotion, knowing that she is safe and loved, and I’m thankful she has given her blessing for our marriage.
I can’t help but notice the sadness in her eyes. She still needs to share her story, and when she is ready, I will be there for her. We’re best friends and nothing will ever change that.
The four others who were with me at the slave auction are here as well. They stand together, a reminder of the bonds forged in the fires of adversity. The Nephew, The Indebted, The Princess, and The Nobody. Today, they are part of our celebration as they find their way back to a new normal, having been taken, sold, and rescued.
One of the flower girls, Emma, is walking just ahead of me. When she turns to look at me, her innocent smile and bright eyes are a poignant reminder of the complexities of life. Emma is the daughter of the man who ambushed us outside the restaurant and attacked Diego. She’s wearing a white dress with a lavender sash and is scattering petals as she walks.
Emma is a symbol of innocence amid the chaos, and the fact that she is here fills me with a profound sense of hope. Her father now works in Diego’s casino, providing for his family by making an honest living. The only reminder of his old life is a slight limp from where I shot him in the leg.
When I reach Diego, he takes both my hands in his, his touch warm and soothing. The officiant begins the ceremony, but I can only focus on Diego’s rich brown eyes, filled with love and promise.
“Diego,” I begin, my voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside me, threatening to spill over and have me sobbing like a baby. “When I was lost in darkness, you were my light. When I was broken, you helped me heal. You showed me that love and kindness can prevail, even in the darkest of times. Today, I vow to stand by your side, to love you with all my heart, and to face whatever challenges come our way. You are my rock, my anchor, and my hope. I love you.”
“Chloe, from the moment I found you, I knew my life would never be the same. You have shown me what true courage and resilience look like. You’re my inspiration, my partner, and my soulmate. Today, I vow to protect you, to cherish you, and to love you unconditionally. Together, we will build a future filled with happiness. You are my heart, my soul, and my everything. I love you.”
As we exchange rings, a wave of joy and gratitude washes over me. I couldn’t be happier than I am in this moment. The officiant pronounces us husband and wife, and Diego leans in and seals our vows with a tender, passionate kiss… and maybe a little bit of tongue.
The celebration that follows is a whirlwind of laughter, music, and dancing. The tables are covered with vibrant tablecloths and colorful flowers, creating a festival vibe, and the air is filled with the scent of delicious Mexican foods such as tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, and the drink flows freely, especially tequila.
Eaton and Shelby are the first to congratulate us, their faces beaming with happiness. Eaton claps Diego on the back. “You both deserve all the happiness in the world.”
Shelby hugs me tightly. “I’m so happy for you, Chloe. You and Diego are perfect together.”
I look for Serena, but I can’t see her. Felix is missing as well. She’s probably gone inside to rest. She was more than willing to give Diego and me her blessing when I asked her. She told me she was happy that something so wonderful could come out of so much darkness, and she’d be honored to call me her sister.
It’s only been a few months since Serena was rescued. I know how much time and strength it takes to heal, and along with her pregnancy, it’s a lot for her to deal with. But Diego and I will always be there for her.
The air is filled with the joyful rhythm and sounds of flamenco music. As we dance under the night sky, I catch glimpses of the four others who were with me at the start of my captivity, each of them finding their own moments of happiness and connection. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve all come and of the strength and resilience that brought us to this moment. In time, they’ll all tell their own stories.
Diego pulls me close as we dance, his arms wrapped protectively around me.
“I love you,” he whispers in my ear. “Thank you for choosing me, for loving me, and for giving me hope.”
I smile, my heart overflowing. “I love you, too. You’ve given me a new life. A new beginning. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”
As the evening draws to a close, we stand together, staring at the star-filled sky. The darkness that once consumed us has been replaced with light, love, and hope. Together, we will face whatever comes our way, knowing that our love will guide us.
In this moment, surrounded by friends, family, and the beauty of Diego’s garden, I am filled with a sense of peace and happiness, knowing I’m no longer sold. I’m found.