Esmeralda was in her room getting ready for the wedding. She felt so many emotions: anxiety, happiness, and nervousness. Rouge was with her doing her hair. She tried to get to Ace, but he went off his way. The young woman had a sense that Ace had feelings for her. Esmeralda felt terrible for not noticing sooner, but it was too late. Her feelings for Sosuke were stronger. Now, she was with Ace's mother. She was nervous that Rouge would be mad at her.

"You have such beautiful hair," said Rouge.

 "Thank you, Ms. Rouge. Although, you have much more beautiful hair than I do. I'm jealous."

Rouge giggled as she curled the young woman's hair. "Before I met and married my husband, I was a model."

"Woah, you were? I never knew that."

"My mother was a model, and my grandmother was an actress, so I guess you can say it runs in the family. However, I have my boy, Ace. Usually, girls are born in my family, and Ace has been a blessing. I'm so proud of him."

Esmeralda smiled. "You should be; Ace is a wonderful man. I am sure he will make a difference in the world." The women were silent again.

"My son likes you."

The young woman fought the urge to flinch. "Oh, uh, I..."

"Don't worry. I know you love Sosuke, and I'm happy for you. My boy likes you but must face the good and bad times. I'm happy that he finally knows love. Sometimes he feels that he's not worthy of it; Ace is much like his father than he's willing to admit."

Esmeralda bit her lower lip. "I'm so sorry, Rouge. I feel terrible for not returning Ace's feelings."

"Don't apologize. It would be best if you focused on what you want in life. I'm sure you and Sosuke will make each other happy. I hesitated for you to get married since you're barely eighteen. However, you grew up fast due to the hardships you and your father faced. You two will face many difficulties, but I know you will overcome them together."

"Thank you, Rouge." Suddenly, there was a knock on the door; Amelia, Lisa, and Akasha entered with some boxes and bags.

"We're back from shopping. I hope you like the dress we chose for you!" said Akasha.

Esmeralda smiled. "You ladies didn't have to; I could've gotten a simple white dress."

"Nonsense! This is your special day! You and Sosuke deserve something bigger, but with Yhwach around, this is the best we can do! You at least deserve a beautiful dress," said Lisa. "Come on; we need to get you ready. The clerk will soon be here!"

The women assisted Esmeralda with her makeup and jewelry. Amelia watched as Esmeralda got ready for her wedding day. A few tears dripped from her eyes. She was saddened that Sosuke and Esmeralda couldn't have a more formal wedding, but she knew the couple was grateful for the simpler things. She was happy that she was able to see Sosuke get married to the woman he loved. 

Amelia remembered when Sosuke came to her and Bradley how a troubled child he was because of his parents. Sosuke did face hardships as he grew older; he also had difficulties with women. However, when he met Esmeralda, he changed drastically. She was what he needed. The older woman didn't know what would happen but wanted the young couple to know what happiness was like.

... ........................

Sosuke was in his room as he changed into a dressy white buttoned-up shirt, a black suit on top, dressy black pants, and shoes. His hair was slicked back, and he finished putting on some cologne. He was ready. His uncle Bradley and Gol D were with him. "I never thought I would see the day that Sosuke here would get married!" said Gol D.

"I thought I would never get married, uncle," said Sosuke. He felt his heart beating rapidly. Sosuke couldn't believe that he was getting married today. He was scared that he wouldn't be enough for Esmeralda or wouldn't make her happy. Yet, Sosuke loved her with all his heart.

Bradley noticed his nephew; he looked at Gol D. "I think I need to give him some paternal advice. Can you gather everyone to the ballroom?"

Gol D nodded and left Bradley and Sosuke alone. Bradley put his hands over his nephew's shoulders. "You're scared; I can see it, nephew. I know you have many fears of not being enough of a man for Esmeralda. It's normal, but don't let it overcome you. You two are marrying each other because of love and knowing hardships will be ahead. Don't expect marriage to be perfect, Sosuke. Don't expect to be the perfect man and for your future wife to be the perfect woman. Just be happy."

Sosuke took a deep breath. "You're right, uncle."

"Now go downstairs; I will escort the bride down."

Sosuke left the room to go to the ballroom where his uncles and aunts, with the clerk, were waiting for him. There were some plant arches that the groom and bride had to go through to get to the clerk. Sosuke stood before the clerk. Everyone was waiting. From the corner of his eye, he saw Ace standing far from everyone. He wore a dressy, long-sleeved, dark blue buttoned shirt with black jeans and formal shoes. Ace's hair was nicely combed.

He knew that his cousin was hurt, but Sosuke appreciated that Ace was at least supportive.

Meanwhile, Esmeralda was alone with Amelia when Bradley entered her room. The older man's eyes were a bit wide; he smiled. "You look beautiful, Esmeralda. The women picked the perfect dress for you; your father would be proud to see you."

The young woman wiped away a couple of tears. "I wish my mama and papa were here, but I know they are watching over me. At least I have you to give me away, Mr. Bradley. Also, I can't thank you and everyone enough for what you have done for my papa and me. Since Sosuke and I will get married, may I call you my 'papa' and 'mama'?"

The older couple blushed. "Of course, you will be officially part of our family," said Amelia as she hugged the young woman. 

Suddenly, Esmeralda went to Bradley and hugged him. Bradley and Amelia were surprised. Bradley had a slight blush on his cheeks. He cleared his throat. "We must be going. Everyone is waiting for us." Bradley motioned out his arm that Esmeralda held onto. The older couple led the bride out of the room and then to the ballroom, where everyone stood.

All eyes were on her. She saw Sosuke standing before the table and clerk; his eyes and lips were wide. He saw her in a long-sleeved, off-shoulder two, two-piece mermaid wedding dress with satin lace. Her long hair was curled, and she wore a white and pink rose flower crown. She wore small diamond earrings and a thin silver necklace. Esmeralda had slight makeup that made her face glow. Sosuke felt his eyes tear up at the sight of her.

Bradley wore his former dark blue military uniform, while Amelia wore a simple, elegant dark purple dress. Bradley promised his sons that he would wear his military uniform when they all married, including Sosuke. Bradley then motioned Esmeralda to Sosuke; Sosuke got a hold of her hand, and the two stood before the clerk. The clerk began to give his speech while everyone stood and listened. Amelia and some of the women shed a few tears. Bradley felt his eyes wanted to water up but refrained from doing so. 

The clerk asked for the rings, and Vlad gave the couple the rings. 

"I hope the ring fits Sosuke's finger, Vlad. It's pretty fat," joked Issa.

The brothers and Akasha glared at Issa. Vlad and Gol D smacked Issa on his head, as did Akasha. Esmeralda and Sosuke chuckled. The two said their vows and put the rings on each other's fingers. Ace watched silently but knew what was coming next and decided it was enough. He walked out of the ballroom.

The clerk asked the couple to sign the paperwork, making their union official. "By the power invested in me, I declare you both husband and wife." Everyone cheered, and the clerk looked at Sosuke. "You may kiss the bride."

Sosuke and Esmeralda looked at one another. Sosuke motioned her face closer to his; their lips touched. They kissed; they were finally married.