As the evening drew to a close, Jr.'s family stood to bid farewell to Bella's family. The living room still echoed with the warmth of laughter and shared stories between two cultures that had seamlessly blended into one. Jr.'s mother reached for Bella's mother's hands, holding them gently.
"We shall meet again on the wedding day," she said with a tender smile. "And I will help you with a little makeup. Just a touch to make your beauty shine even more."
Bella's mother blushed modestly and replied, "Thank you so much. You're very kind."
Her sister, Aunt Jolly, also smiled and nodded in appreciation. The mood was soft and filled with mutual respect. As Jr.'s family stepped out of the house and into the cool Greenwood evening, Bella's family stood at the door, waving them off with hearts full of joy and anticipation.
The family got into the waiting limousine, its polished frame gleaming under the driveway lights. As the car slowly pulled away, a thoughtful silence filled the cabin.
Jr.'s grandfather was the first to speak. "Such a sweet family," he said in a low, reflective voice. "Genuine. Humble. You can feel the love in their home."
Everyone in the car nodded in agreement. Evelyn, the First Lady of Maryland, wiped a small tear from the corner of her eye. "Bella's mother reminds me of my own," she whispered. "Strong, warm, and so proud of her roots."
"They are down-to-earth people," Jr.'s father added. "And they raised Bella with so much love. You can tell."
The drive back to the Hampton mansion, where Jr.'s parents resided, was filled with conversation. The talk never drifted far from Bella's family—their traditions, their culture, their warmth. When they arrived, other family members who had stayed behind welcomed them with curiosity.
"How did it go?" Justin, Jr.'s Aunt and the wife of the Prime Minister of Octavia, asked eagerly.
Jr.'s mother smiled brightly. "It went beautifully. They are sweet, simple people. So respectful. So genuine. It was like we'd known them forever."
The family lingered in the sitting room a bit longer, talking about the meeting, sharing thoughts, and reflecting on the beautiful union that was about to be made official. Eventually, they all retired to bed. Tomorrow would be a day that would make history in both families.
Meanwhile, Jr. was at the mansion he shared with Bella—their future home. He was there with Alex, Joshua, and a group of close friends who had flown in from the United States, where Jr. had studied. The mood in the house was light but electric. Suits were being prepped, speeches revised, cufflinks polished, and shoes lined up. Everyone was buzzing with excitement.
"Bro," Alex said, patting Jr. on the shoulder, "tomorrow's the day. You ready?"
Jr. chuckled. "I've never been more ready in my life."
At a separate mansion nearby, Bella was surrounded by joy and sisterhood. She was staying with Jr.'s cousins, several maids, and a few young girls who had already claimed their roles as flower girls. The house was vibrant with laughter, hair products, and chatter. Bonita, one of the youngest girls, danced around the room, singing, "Mommy, tomorrow is your big day!"
Bianca jumped in with a squeal, "Yes, yes! You'll be the most beautiful bride ever!"
Bonita spun in a circle, her curls bouncing, and said confidently, "And we will be the flower girls! We practiced already!"
Bella smiled softly, touched by the purity and excitement of the children. Their joy was infectious. The maids worked gently on the girls' hair, adding ribbons and beads. Jr.'s cousins were helping Bella try on different accessories for the final fitting.
As the night stretched into early morning, the entire country seemed to hold its breath.
At dawn, across the city and on every screen, a KS TV presenter appeared on the national morning show. Dressed in a crisp suit and with a gleaming smile, he began:
"Good morning, Greenwood! The day we've all been waiting for is finally here! Today, Hampton Hemester Jr. ties the knot with the mysterious beauty that has stolen his heart! Social media is on fire—everyone wants to catch a glimpse of the lucky girl. Stay tuned for exclusive coverage of the grand cathedral wedding and the private Hampton reception!"
Online platforms were abuzz with trending hashtags. Comment sections overflowed with curiosity, admiration, and congratulations. Videos of the wedding venue being set up, shots of the imported Italian suits, and glimpses of the cathedral's floral arrangements were already circulating.
Back at the bridal mansion, Jr.'s mother arrived just after sunrise. She wore an elegant robe and carried a designer handbag filled with special items. The moment she entered the room, the girls squealed in delight.
"Grandma!" Lisa shouted, racing to hug her.
"Good morning, everyone," Jr.'s mother said with a warm smile, bending down to embrace each of the little girls.
"How are my princesses today?" she asked.
"We're fine, Grandmother!" they replied in unison.
"I brought something for you all," she said, reaching into her bag and pulling out small packets of imported chocolates wrapped in gold foil. "A little treat for my favorite flower girls."
The girls squealed in happiness, thanked her excitedly, and rushed back to Bella to show off their goodies.
Jr.'s mother then turned to Bella, who stood at the far end of the room in a silky robe, her hair loosely curled and her face calm but glowing. She walked over and took her hands gently.
"My daughter," she said softly, "today, the world will see what we've already known. That you are beautiful, elegant, and worthy of love. Let me help prepare you for your moment."
Bella nodded, her eyes welling up with tears. "Thank you, Mama," she whispered. "Thank you for everything."
Together, the women began preparations. Makeup artists were called in, hairstylists arrived, and the cathedral dress was carefully taken out of its garment bag. Everything was ready. The sun had barely risen, but the day had already begun to sparkle.
Outside the mansion, security had tightened. Limousines were parked in a neat line. Photographers were preparing for the grand procession. At the cathedral, rehearsals were underway, floral arrangements were being finalized, and international guests had begun to gather.
The President of Maryland was already en route, accompanied by his secretary. Justin, the aunt married to the Prime Minister of Octavia, was managing VIP protocols. Prince Omar of Saudi Arabia had confirmed his attendance, and even the Vice President of Uganda had landed in Greenwood the night before. This wasn't just a wedding—it was a global event.
But for Bella and Jr., it was something more.
It was the beginning of forever.