Chapter:- 113

The air was filled with the subtle scent of lemons and candle wax.

Gold tapestry runners featuring Batik motifs graced the tables by the entranceway to the hall, and crystal vases filled with white roses spilling out sat atop them, while bouquets of white roses wrapped in blue silk ribbons decorated the ends of the old wooden pews. The early morning sun shone through the stained-glass windows of the wedding hall and reflected pretty images onto the floor of the hall. Dozens of candles in every size were placed on the altar, ready to be lit when the ceremony started; they would lend a soft and warm glow to the happy couple as they stood before friends and family professing their love for one another.

Zia studied the decorations with a critical eye—everything had to be perfect. She had pale yellow roses braided into her long dark hair and her dress, a long column of silver—not quite white and not quite grey—that shimmered under the lights with every moment. Satisfied that everything was