The Widow’s Fate They Chose Was My Escape Plan Chapter 17
“By the authority vested in me by the laws of New York, I now pronounce you legally married. May the years ahead bring you peace and smooth roads, far from illness and calamity.”
The words had barely ended when a bright, metallic chiming filled the air, followed by cheers from the crowd. I glanced down through my veil and saw countless thin gold pieces scattered across the floor.
It was the blessing. I had seen flower petals before, but the Quinn family had custom-made commemorative coins.
Because Sebastian was unwell, the wedding skipped the long photo sessions and champagne toasts. I soon returned to our room with him and sat primly on the edge of the bed. He moved slowly. After the soft rustle of fabric, I felt him lift his hand and gently raise my veil.
Sebastian was handsome, with deep-set, gentle eyes, though faint shadows rested beneath them.
When he saw me, he smiled. “You must be exhausted.”
I shook my head and instinctively stood to help him out of his suit jacket. He lowered his head and lifted his arms cooperatively, his movements so gentle that I felt momentarily dazed.
In my previous life, I had never truly seen Sebastian—not even by the time I died.
When I was forced into the marriage, he was already too sick to see anyone. Eleanor, furious that I had delayed everything, treated me with open hostility. Unlike this time, I had been driven straight to the Quinn residence in a single old car.
No wedding dress. No one to receive me. Not even a valid marriage license. The families had simply announced the union verbally.
That night, Sebastian did not touch me. He only slept beside me in his clothes.
When I woke the next morning, he had already prepared breakfast and was waiting. I had slept in, exhausted from the day before.
Seeing the flush rise to my face, he smiled. “It’s alright. The Quinns don’t require a new wife to attend a formal family brunch. But this afternoon, we will be leaving New York.”
“Lena Sterling, if you regret marrying me, it’s not too late to leave.”