The Duke's Revenge Bride

Chapter 60

The days leading up to the wedding were a whirlwind of preparations, decisions, and emotions. I barely had time to think, my every moment occupied with ensuring everything was perfect—not for me, but for the family name. This wedding wasn't just about Levi and me; it was a symbol of unity between the (L/N) and Ackerman families. 

The day had finally arrived. Sunlight filtered through the window of my room as Mikasa and Hange fussed over my dress and veil. Mikasa, ever composed, ensured every detail was perfect, while Hange excitedly babbled about how regal I looked, her enthusiasm making me smile despite my nerves. 

"You look stunning, (Y/N)," Mikasa said as she adjusted the veil. "Levi won't be able to take his eyes off you." 

Hange leaned in with a playful smirk. "And I wouldn't blame him. Seriously, you might make him crack a smile in public for once." 

I chuckled softly, though my hands fidgeted in my lap. My nerves were starting to get the better of me. 

Before I could dwell on them, the door opened, and Amelia stepped in. The sight of her made us all pause. 

She was wearing a beautiful gown—not overly extravagant but elegant enough to command attention. Her hair was styled neatly, and she held her head high, though there was a softness in her expression that I wasn't used to seeing. 

"Amelia," I said, surprised, "you look—" 

"Beautiful," Hange finished for me, her eyes wide. 

Mikasa gave a small nod of approval. "What's the occasion?" 

Amelia walked over to me, her eyes glistening slightly. "I wanted to talk to you before the ceremony," she said softly, her voice unusually gentle. 

"What is it?" I asked, tilting my head in curiosity. 

She took a deep breath before kneeling in front of me, her hands clasping mine. "I know this isn't how things were supposed to be. Father should have been the one to walk you down the aisle today. But he can't... and I thought—" She paused, her voice breaking slightly. "I thought I could do it. If you'll allow me, I'd be honored to walk you down the aisle in his place." 

The room fell silent, Hange and Mikasa exchanging stunned glances. 

Tears filled my eyes as I looked at her. Amelia had always been stubborn, sometimes infuriating, but in this moment, I saw the sister I'd always wanted her to be. 

"Amelia..." My voice cracked, and I squeezed her hands. "I would be honored." 

She gave me a watery smile, her own tears threatening to fall. "Then it's settled. Let's make Father proud today." 

Hange wiped at her eyes dramatically. "Oh, I'm not crying. You're crying!" 

Mikasa smiled softly, her usual stoicism replaced with a hint of warmth. "It's fitting. He would've wanted this." 

Amelia stood and helped me to my feet. "Come on. Let's get you married." 

As I stood before the mirror one last time, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness that my father wasn't here. But Amelia's presence, her support, filled a small part of that void. With her by my side, I felt ready to face whatever awaited me at the end of the aisle—including Levi. 

The ceremony was about to begin, and as the music started, Amelia offered me her arm. "Are you ready?" she asked, her voice steady. 

I smiled, my heart swelling with gratitude and love. "I am." 

The grand hall was filled with nobles, soldiers, and familiar faces. Every detail of the ceremony was immaculate, from the towering floral arrangements to the soft, golden light streaming through the stained glass windows. As Amelia and I stood at the entrance, I couldn't help but glance at the crowd, spotting Levi near the altar, his expression unreadable but intense.