He spoke absently, “Why’d you go to the amusement park? Have you finished with all the wedding preparations?”
“Pretty much.”
Tomorrow, she would finally leave this place behind.
Ambrose chuckled, his tone light.
“I remember you’ve always wanted to ride the Ferris wheel. When I get a chance, I’ll take you and make sure you have a wonderful day. I didn’t mean to interrupt your fun today, but my mom wants to see you.”
“It’s fine. We’ll have plenty of time for that later.”
Hazel had a lifetime of wishes, and there would always be time later to fulfill them.
After she left the country, she would tick off her list of wishes, one by one, none of them involving Ambrose.
Once Ambrose finished sending his messages, he started the car and casually played one of Scarlett’s favorite songs.
Hazel turned her gaze toward the streets, the city she had grown up in.
It was a beautiful place.
Neon lights flickered, blending seamlessly with the starlit sky in a dazzling dance of colors.
But the longer she stared, the more the wind stung her eyes, leaving them red and sore.
When they arrived at the old family house, the dining table was already piled with leftovers.
The housekeeper was clearing the dishes while the parents of both families chatted merrily.
Ambrose and Scarlett shared a laugh, their easy camaraderie filling the space.
In the midst of it all, Hazel felt like an outsider.
Her figure caught Ambrose’s eye for a fleeting moment. He saw the lonely silhouette, and his heart skipped a beat.
Suddenly, a forgotten promise resurfaced in Ambrose’s mind, one he had made years ago, vowing never to let this little girl feel sorrow again.
After a brief pause, Ambrose summoned someone to bring over a few dresses.
“Hazel,” he said softly, “I know you’ve been busy lately, so I asked Scarlett to pick out a wedding dress for you. Take a look and see if any of them catch your eye.”
Scarlett’s voice rang out cheerfully as she leaned in close.
“Sis, I’m your bridesmaid, remember? We’ll be walking down the aisle together, and everyone will see just how stunning we both look!”
Her father, a picture of affection, ruffled Scarlett’s hair with a proud smile.
Ambrose, too, grinned at the father-daughter moment, clearly pleased.
But Hazel couldn’t tear her eyes away from the wedding dress in front of her.