✮ ༄ 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐄𝐘𝐄𝐒 ༄✮
ACT IIII                   CHAPTER 29
( you are the one i have been waiting for )

         "What do you mean 'no'?" Evelyn's voice trembled with a mix of frustration and disbelief, her breath held in a state of aggravation. With a forceful slam of her hands on the table, she fixed a piercing glare upon President Coin, who remained seemingly unfazed by her display of emotion.

"I will not have Peeta wandering about when he is dangerous. He could attack at any given moment and I am not risking my people, or the Mockingjay's safety just because you want him at your wedding I am so kindly allowing you and Finnick to have." President Coin calmly informed.

"Allowing?" Evelyn's eyebrows raised as she let out a scoff, her posture becoming assertive as she stood tall and crossed her arms, "Maybe. But the only reason your 'allowing' the wedding to happen in the first place is for a publicity stunt, so everyone in the Capitol can see that everything is peach perfect in District 13 with the cameras subtly in the background." She paused, "But, I'm calling it off if you won't let Peeta be there for at least thirty minutes. He's not a prisoner."

President Coin's voice caught in her throat while she swallowed the lump that formed. With a firm resolve, she mustered the strength to speak, "You don't have the authority to do that."

Evelyn only smirked, "You'd be surprised."

President Coin's stare locked onto the unwavering woman before her, recognising her unyielding determination, "If I authorise him to be there, any attacks, any deaths... all of it will be on your hands." The weight of her warning hung in the air, a stark reminder of the consequences at stake, "And of course two of my men will be guarding him."

"I knew I could convince you."

    Evelyn was trembling with nerves, her heart fluttering like a captured butterfly. This moment surpassed anything she had ever felt before. After she delicately slipped into her exquisite wedding dress, a masterpiece crafted by the talented Effie Trinket, she couldn't help but marvel at her own reflection in the mirror. Her face adorned with just a touch of light makeup, accentuating her natural beauty, while her loving sister skillfully styled her hair into a breathtaking masterpiece.

    The dress she wore was an absolute vision of ethereal beauty. Delicate straps gracefully adorned her shoulders, while elegant, puffy sleeves cascaded down to her elbows, adding a touch of regal charm. The top part of the dress was a mesmerising blend of midnight blue fading into a soft white, adorned with countless mini silver stars that seemed to twinkle with enchantment. At her waist, a singular moon nestled amidst the celestial embellishments, adding an extra touch of celestial magic. The neckline formed a captivating V-shape, gracefully showcasing her chest, while small, dark blue stripes intertwined with masses of white cascaded down the length of the dress. As the gown gracefully swept the floor, it concealed her glittery silver shoes, a perfect match to the corset-like part of the ensemble.

        "I feel like I'll embarrass myself somehow." Evelyn mumbled pathetically, causing her to nervously contemplate biting her freshly painted white nails. But, with a swift motion, Faye smacked her hand out of harm's way.

    "I'm sure Finnick will do that for you." Faye snickered, making Evelyn chuckle, "Just read your vows, repeat whatever, and kiss, boom!"

    Evelyn's gaze became lost in a sea of thoughts as she fixated on her reflection in the mirror. In that moment, something magical happened. For the first time, she didn't just see Ace looking back at her. Instead, she saw herself, radiating with a genuine smile and brimming with excitement. This was the version of Evelyn who was about to marry the one and only Finnick Odair, the man who had captured her heart and soul since the earliest memories she could recall. The intensity of her love for him was undeniable, and it filled her with an overwhelming sense of joy and anticipation.

        "All done!" The youngest Mane sibling squealed with uncontainable excitement, and couldn't help but clap her hands together in a burst of delight, celebrating the completion of her task.

    Her luscious blonde locks, recently trimmed into a chic short style, were meticulously curled to perfection. A few strands were elegantly pinned back with a precious silver star clip, a sentimental memento that Finnick's gifted to her back in District Four. Faye, ever the fashionista, swiftly adorned her ears with delicate moon-shaped earrings, connected with miniature sparkling jewels that traced the outline of the celestial symbol.

    Evelyn's mouth hangs slightly agape, a soft gasp slipping past her lips. In that fleeting moment, a genuine feeling of wonder washes over her. It's as if the universe itself has conspired to make her feel absolutely amazing, leaving her breathless and filled with a sense of awe.

        In the past, President Snow held her captive, dictating her outfits and suppressing her true essence. But now, she has broken free from those chains and is basking in the glorious light of authenticity. She no longer feels like a mere pawn, used and controlled. Instead, she's soaring on the wings of freedom, embracing her true self with every fiber of her being.

    "You look so beautiful, Eve." Faye gently smiles. as she gently places a hand on Eve's shoulder, conveying her genuine admiration. Evelyn's face lights up more through the mirror while she reciprocates the gesture, her palm resting atop Faye's.

    "Thank you, little Star." She whispered, her voice filled with a mixture of gratitude and tenderness. An overwhelming rush of joyous tears threatened to blur her vision, and in a playful panic, she exclaimed, "Oh no, no! I can't cry, it'll ruin my makeup."

        "You, my dear, are an absolute vision of beauty, with or without makeup." A voice resonated from the doorway,. Evelyn spun around, her smile never faltering, as she locked eyes with him.

    Zane stood there, donning a sleek grey suit that perfectly matched Finnick's ensemble. His tie and pocket handkerchief, perfectly coordinated with every meticulous detail, added a touch of sophistication to his overall look.

    "W- wow." Evelyn giggled, "I've never seen you look so posh in my entire life."

        Straightening out his sleeves with a confident flourish, he nods triumphantly. "I must say, I scrubbed up quite nicely, didn't I?" He asks, a proud smile gracing his lips. Though his words are directed mainly to himself.

    The sisters exchanged a glance, their laughter echoing through the air like a symphony of joy. Zane, his heart brimming with love, couldn't help but smile at the two incredible girls before him. They were his everything. With a gentle clearing of his throat, he spoke, "Shall we?" and extended his arm out.

    "We shall." Evelyn chuckled and looped her arm around his.

        They strolled leisurely towards the heart of District 13. It's the place where the entire community would gather, eagerly awaiting their arrival. Among the crowd, Evelyn's soon-to-be husband stood, his presence adding an extra layer of anticipation to the atmosphere. Faye, sensing the eagerness in her heart, took the lead further ahead, eager to reach the destination before them.

    Evelyn's heart raced, its rhythm mirroring the excitement that surged through her veins. She had always envisioned a picture-perfect wedding, perhaps on a sandy beach with the gentle breeze caressing her face. But now, her dreams had shifted, and the location no longer mattered. What truly mattered was the love she shared with Finnick. Whether it was by the ocean or in a rebellion building, Evelyn was ready to say "I do" anywhere, as long as they were together.

    "Nervous?" Zane asked once they paused near the entrance, "Because I'm nervous just looking at Finnick through these tiny windows." He nodded in Odair's direction.

        Evelyn shot him an amusing yet meaningful look, "Stop." She quietly laughed.

    "I'm so incredibly proud of you." Zane told, "After everything you've been through, you deserve this." As he spoke, a small yet proud smile graced his lips

    In an instant, Evelyn enveloped him in a heartfelt embrace, her arms wrapping around him with a warmth that was both comforting and exhilarating. At first, he felt a slight hesitation, not accustomed to the closeness of physical touch. But as the seconds passed, he allowed himself to surrender to the moment, feeling the walls he had built around himself crumble away. With a newfound sense of ease, he returned her embrace, matching her warmth and eagerness, as if they were two souls intertwining in a dance of pure connection.

        "Thank you, Zane." Evelyn quietly spoke by his ear, "You're the best mentor, and father, I could ever ask for."

    Zane's heart swelled with warmth at her words, a cascade of emotions threatening to spill over. He felt the familiar sting behind his eyes, a sign that tears were welling up, but he managed to gather his composure. As he gently pulled away from the embrace, a smile spread across his face, "Someone had to look after you." He jokingly quipped.

    A breathy laugh escaped past Evelyn's lips. She gazed through the small windows, her eyes met the sight of Faye standing at the front, a symbol that the moment had finally arrived. It was time for Evelyn to embark on her journey down the aisle, where love and destiny awaited her, making her heart flutter in excitement.

        As the doors swung open, a hushed silence fell over the room, capturing the attention of all in attendance. Every gaze turned towards Evelyn Mane, their eyes widening in awe and admiration. Gasps escaped from parted lips, while some couldn't help but place a hand over their heart, overwhelmed by her sheer beauty. Evelyn, radiant and resplendent, exuded an ethereal glow that left everyone spellbound. She was a sight that would forever be etched in their memories.

    And as for Finnick... well, he couldn't tear his gaze away from her, captivated by her presence even from a distance. His heart skipped a beat as he absorbed every delicate detail of her being. As she gracefully walked alongside Zane, he marveled at her beauty, feeling a surge of pride well up within him. She looked as stunning as ever, a vision that seemed to embody her essence. And her dress, oh, it spoke volumes about her, a reflection of her unique style and personality. Finnick felt a swell of admiration, grateful to have such an extraordinary person in his life.

    Evelyn's smile bounced warmth as her eyes met Peeta's, acknowledging his presence at the back with his two bodyguards. In that moment, a genuine smile painted his lips, a rare sight that showed his gratitude for being included in her company. Despite the protective shadows that stood behind him, Peeta's heart soared with appreciation, knowing that this remarkable woman wanted him here.

        As Evelyn gracefully made her way down the aisle, her gaze remained locked with Finnick's, an unbreakable connection that transcended the world around them. She saw him in a whole new light, his handsomeness amplified tenfold. Her eyes softened with affection, a smile etched on her face, mirroring the joy that radiated from Finnick. Their shared happiness created an enchanting aura, as if their love had the power to illuminate the entire room.

    This is the happiest day of her life, right alongside the day Faye came into this world. It's a moment so precious, so full of joy, that nothing and no one can steal it away.

    Once nearing, Zane bid the bride farewell with a quick kiss on her cheek, leaving her in the capable hands of Finnick. Taking his place as the best man, Zane stood proudly behind Finnick, ready to support him on this momentous day. Evelyn's eyes met Faye's, and in that silent exchange, Faye mouthed the words "you got this," before Evelyn positioned herself in front of Finnick.

        Stood in front of one another, Finnick found himself lost by the depths of Evelyn's ocean blue eyes. Within them, he saw a reflection of symbols: stars. His lips parted slightly, rendered speechless by the overwhelming happiness that Evelyn brought into his life. In that moment, he couldn't help but believe that the word 'gorgeous' was invented solely to describe her exquisite beauty, and Finnick felt incredibly fortunate to have her by his side.

    Evelyn was completely entranced by Finnick's sea-green pupils. They were like a portal to her heart, reminding her of the familiar sights and comforting warmth of home. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them in their own enchanting bubble. It was as if time stood still, allowing them to bask in the pure connection they shared. Nothing else mattered in that moment — it was a beautiful escape into a reality where their love reigned supreme.

    "I—, you..." Finnick's words stumbled out in a stutter. Evelyn couldn't help but let out a soft and gentle laugh, as if his sweet stuttering melted her heart. The sound of her joyous laughter, a melody that Finnick adored so deeply, washed over him like a soothing balm, calming his nerves. With a newfound sense of tranquility, he mustered the words, "You look breath-taking."

        A rosy hue delicately graced Evelyn's cheeks, and Finnick couldn't help but find her absolutely cute when she blushed. With a twinkle in her eyes, she responded, "You don't look too bad yourself." Her chuckle filled the air, igniting a contagious laughter within him.

    Finnick gently took Evelyn's hands in his palms, his thumb caressing her delicate skin with a tender touch. A delightful tingle rushed down Evelyn's spine, sending shivers of warmth throughout her entire being. Their eyes met, brimming with happiness and love, as they shared a silent understanding. With a kind gaze, they gestured to the person officiating their union, silently urging them to begin the magical ceremony that would bind their hearts together forever.

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twenty-nine complete !!

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A/N:

more of the wedding will be in the next chapter!
i'm in such a happy mood rn i'm willing to somehow bring ace back from the dead... should i?

also here's her wedding dress and earrings since i'm so awful at describing things.