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Shattered Glass Heiress Story / Chapter 17 / 20

Chapter 17 - The Final Gambit

Following the terrifying incident at St. Jude’s Hospital, the federal government launched a massive investigation into corruption within the prison transport system. Cordelia Vance was moved to a maximum-security facility located in a remote mountain region, kept in complete isolation under twenty-four-hour military guard. Her family’s name was permanently erased from the city’s high-society registers.

With all threats finally eliminated, the Calloway estate was transformed into an impenetrable sanctuary of peace, warmth, and love.

Four weeks later, Della reached her ninth month of pregnancy.

The sun shone brightly over the city as the morning of their wedding arrived.

Inside the grand dressing room of the North Hills estate, Della stood in front of a full-length mirror, taking her own breath away. She wore a custom-designed silk wedding gown with soft lace sleeves that draped gracefully over her gorgeous nine-month baby bump. A delicate diamond tiara rested in her styled hair, and on her hand sparkled the emerald engagement ring beside her faint, crescent-shaped scar.

Mrs. Higgins wiped a tear from her eye as she adjusted the lace train of the gown. "You look like an angel, Miss Della. Absolutely breathtaking."

Della looked at her reflection, feeling a deep, overwhelming sense of wonder. She remembered standing in front of the shattered mirror at the Ashworth Grand Hotel months ago—bleeding, terrified, broke, and helpless.

Now, standing in front of this mirror, she was surrounded by love, dignity, and absolute happiness.

"Thank you, Mrs. Higgins," Della said softly, smiling warmly. "For everything."

Meanwhile, in the primary suite on the opposite side of the estate, Royce was putting on his black tuxedo. Marcus stood beside him, handing him his silver cufflinks.

"All security teams are in position around St. Patrick's Cathedral, Boss," Marcus reported with a proud smile. "The city police chief has cleared the parade route. Ten thousand citizens are gathered outside the cathedral to wish you and Miss Della well."

Royce smiled, looking at himself in the mirror. For the first time in his life, the dark, cold shadow in his eyes was completely gone, replaced by a radiant, quiet joy.

"Thank you, Marcus," Royce said, clapping his loyal friend on the shoulder. "For ten years of loyalty."

"It was an honor, Boss," Marcus replied, bowing respectfully. "Now go get married."

At two o'clock in the afternoon, the heavy mahogany doors of St. Patrick’s Cathedral swung open.

The ancient cathedral was filled with hundreds of guests, charity leaders, board members, and city officials, all standing in respectful silence. Soft, beautiful organ music echoed beneath the soaring stained-glass windows.

At the altar stood Royce, looking breathtakingly handsome, his eyes locked onto the rear doors.

And then, Della appeared.

She walked down the long, flower-covered aisle alone, holding a bouquet of white roses, her head held high with quiet, radiant majesty. Every step she took was a triumph over poverty, abuse, and fear.

As she reached the altar, Royce stepped down to take her hand. His grip was warm, strong, and protective.

"You are the most beautiful woman in the world," Royce whispered, his voice trembling with genuine emotion.

Della blushed softly, her eyes shining with tears of joy. "And you are my hero."

The cardinal stepped forward, opening the holy scripture.

"We are gathered here today to unite Royce Calloway and Della Marsh in holy matrimony," the cardinal announced softly. "A union forged in courage, proven in trial, and sealed in love."

As the ceremony proceeded, the vows were exchanged with deep, emotional conviction.

"I, Royce Calloway, take you, Della Marsh, to be my wedded wife," Royce swore, looking directly into her eyes. "To love, honor, and protect you, in sickness and in health, through storm and calm, for as long as we both shall live."

"I, Della Marsh, take you, Royce Calloway, to be my wedded husband," Della wept softly, smiling through her tears. "To love, trust, and cherish you, forever and always."

"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the cardinal declared joyfully. "What God has joined together, let no man put asunder. You may kiss the bride!"

Royce stepped forward, gently cupping Della’s face, and pulled her into a passionate, breathtaking kiss as the church bells rang out triumphantly across the city!

The congregation erupted into thunderous applause and cheers!

However, just as they turned to walk down the aisle as husband and wife, Della suddenly stopped mid-step. She gasped softly, her hand tightening around Royce’s arm!

Royce froze, looking at her with sudden worry. "Della? What's wrong?!"

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Della looked down at her dress, and then up into Royce’s eyes with a mixture of shock and radiant happiness.

"Royce..." she whispered softly. "My water just broke."

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