Vows of the heart

Vows of the heart

Coulson May

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Victoria's life has always been a story of sacrifice. Rejected by her parents as a teenager and blamed for their misfortune, she found solace in faith, dedicating her life to a Catholic Nun. But when the charming young billionaire Fedrick enters her world, her heart faces a challenge her vows never prepared her for. As Fedrick's love for Victoria grows, her family faces ruin. Her father, desperate to save his crumbling business, sees Victoria's marriage to Fedrick as the key to redemption-both for their fortunes and the daughter he cast aside. Now, Victoria must make an impossible choice: stay true to her sacred vows or risk everything for the love of a man who could forever change her life-and her family's future. Can love conquer faith, or will her devotion keep them apart? Find out in this heart-wrenching tale of love, redemption, and the ultimate test of loyalty.

Chapter 1 Whispers in the Sanctuary

The "Amazing Grace" notes floated through the church as Victoria's voice rose in song. She stood at the altar, her eyes closed, her hands lightly gripping the hymnal. The congregation sat in hushed reverence, the simple, familiar melody tugging at their hearts.

At the back of the church, Mr. Caldwell's hands trembled as he gripped the edge of the pew. His face was streaked with tears, and he didn't bother to wipe them away. The hymn's words weighed heavily on him, stirring emotions he had buried deep for years. Regret and longing flickered across his expression as he watched his daughter, his mind replaying moments from a time when things were simpler and love wasn't overshadowed by fear.

Beside him, Mrs. Caldwell pressed a handkerchief to her face. Her shoulders shook as she whispered, "She has her mother's voice."

Mr. Caldwell nodded but didn't respond, too overcome to speak.

Fedrick sat beside Victoria's younger brother, Samuel, near the center of the church. Though his tailored suit stood out among the modest congregation, Fedrick focused entirely on Victoria. Each note of her song seemed to reach directly into his soul, confirming what he had suspected for weeks now: she was unlike anyone he had ever known.

"She always sings like that," Samuel whispered, leaning toward him. "Makes the whole church quiet."

Fedrick smiled faintly. "She's amazing," he replied.

As the hymn ended, Victoria opened her eyes and scanned the congregation. Her gaze briefly met Fedrick's, and she quickly looked away, focusing on the priest at the pulpit. But the intensity of his gaze lingered, leaving her unsettled in a way she couldn't quite explain.

After the service, the congregation began to disperse, chatting in low voices. Victoria stayed behind, tidying the hymnals and ensuring everything was in order. Her movements were measured, almost meditative, as she tried to calm the storm of emotions stirred by the unexpected sight of her parents sitting in the pews.

"Victoria," a voice called softly.

She turned to see her father standing a few feet away, his posture stiff, his expression conflicted. "May I speak with you?" he asked, his voice barely audible.

Victoria's breath caught. She hadn't seen him in years. For a moment, she hesitated, memories of pain and rejection flooding her mind. But then she noticed the tears in his eyes and the tremor in his hands.

"Of course," she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her.

Mrs. Caldwell approached cautiously, her steps hesitant. "We...we were wrong, Victoria," she began, her voice trembling. "We let our fears blind us. Seeing you today... hearing you... I..." Her words faltered, replaced by quiet sobs.

"It's okay," Victoria said softly, though her heart ached. "It's been a long time."

Before her parents could respond, Fedrick appeared at her side. His presence was steadying, his gaze warm but measured. "Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell," he greeted with a slight nod. Then, turning to Victoria, his voice softened. "You were magnificent."

Victoria's cheeks flushed. "Thank you," she murmured.

Samuel tugged at her sleeve. "Vic, are you coming home with us?" he asked, his wide eyes filled with hope.

Victoria knelt, brushing a strand of hair from his face. "I... I'll think about it, Sammy," she said gently.

Behind them, Mr. Caldwell cleared his throat. "We need to talk, Victoria. All of us. Please, come by the house."

Victoria hesitated, glancing at Fedrick, who gave her an encouraging nod. "All right," she said finally. "I'll come."

As her parents walked away, Fedrick lingered, his expression thoughtful. "It's good to see them trying," he said. "They're proud of you. It's written all over their faces."

Victoria folded her hands, her expression unreadable. "I don't know what to think," she admitted. "It's been so long. I thought... I thought they'd forgotten me."

Fedrick's voice was firm but gentle. "No one could forget you, Victoria."

Before she could respond, a sharp voice rang out from the back of the church. "Victoria!"

She turned quickly, her heart pounding as she recognized the figure striding toward her. The urgency in their expression froze her in place.

"There's something you need to know... right now."

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