29: A Midnight Wedding

Answering Aurora’s proposal without hesitation, the Starmaker agrees to marry her. That night, beneath moonlight and candles in the garden, Aurora approaches in a simple white silk dress, carrying a white rose. The priest stands as their sole witness, though Aurora senses Tilly nearby. Overcome, the Starmaker weeps at the sight of her, and they join hands.

The priest leads them through vows mirroring Aurora’s parents’ promises, binding their souls “with the warmth of the Sun and the light of the moon.” They exchange sapphire-accented rings from a village jeweler. At the kiss, Aurora chooses love despite fear of loss, affirming she would always choose the path that leads to him.

They celebrate briefly inside with Ina and the staff—rose petals, sparkling wine, pear tart, and preserved ice wine—before retiring to the Starmaker’s room, where even Constance cannot enter. In a private moment, he shares his name—Caspian—allowing vulnerability to reshape their intimacy.

Aurora invites Caspian to express what he wants, and he asks to touch her while she says his name. Their lovemaking is deliberate and reverent, interweaving consent and devotion. Aurora surrenders to pleasure, repeating “Caspian,” while he confesses she has brought him back to life, a feeling she reciprocates.

The chapter closes with their quiet afterglow—tears, soft laughter, and the shared understanding that their love is both consuming and safe. Their union is sealed emotionally and physically, fortifying them for the perilous transfer ahead.