Chapter 12
When Enola woke again, it was already 3:00 am.
Still groggy as she was pulled up to get her makeup done, she vaguely recalled how Parker had ordered a new wedding dress for her after the original one was taken. The large, layered skirt and off–the–shoulder design highlighted both her innocence and allure.
She sat quietly with eyes half–closed, allowing the makeup artist to work freely. Amid her sleepy haze, she faintly heard the makeup artist complimenting her skin.
“Ms. Crawford, your skin is amazing. You’re incredibly beautiful even without makeup.”
Enola smiled softly at the praise. Her makeup was soon finished while she was surrounded by lively chatter.
“All done,” the makeup artist finally said.
As Enola opened her eyes, she saw Parker reflected in the mirror, quietly waiting behind her.
He waved a hand, signaling the others to pack up and leave. Soon, only the two of them remained in the makeup room. His gaze lingered intently on her, and the straightforward affection in his eyes suddenly made her feel a bit shy.
“What are you doing here?” Enola asked softly, thinking that by now Parker should have been greeting guests in the banquet hall.
Stepping forward, Parker gently wrapped an arm around her shoulders. His fingers brushed lightly over her skin, and the delicate sensation made him involuntarily tighten his grip.
Seeing the blush slowly spread from her pale skin to the tips of her ears, he whispered teasingly in her ear, “Because… I missed you.”
Perhaps due to his upbringing in Melcian, although Parker appeared gentle and reserved, his expressions of love were far more direct and passionate than those typically seen in her homeland. He never hesitated to show his feelings, always making her feel secure and loved.
Her ears were still flushed as she turned her head slightly, softly pressing a kiss on his cheek. Parker saw himself reflected clearly in her warm brown eyes, as though he was her entire world.
The warmth from her kiss lingered on his skin, making his gaze darken slightly. He didn’t move closer, only tightening the hand on her shoulder. “The ceremony is about to start. I’ll take you there.”
Parker picked up the veil nearby and gently placed it on her head. Although it didn’t obscure her face, it added a touch of soft mystery to her appearance.
They then stepped outside while holding hands. As soon as they opened the door, they ran into Parker’s parents, Declan Sadler and Abigail Bowman, who had been looking for them.
Abigail immediately spoke up with mock irritation, “Aren’t you clever! The guests had barely begun arriving when you disappeared. I knew right away you must’ve snuck off to see Enrie.”
Declan chuckled warmly while his eyes were filled with approval. “Doesn’t that just show how close Parker and Ennie are? It’s worth a little extra effort on our part.” Abigail shook her head helplessly. “Oh, you’re one to talk. You father and son duo truly have no sense of propriety!”
