Chapter Twenty-nine

*In Conclusion*

"What God has joined together, let no man tear asunder. You may kiss your brides."

Neither groom wasted a moment. Nikolas cupped Dawn's face and bent forward. Lucky did the same to Emily.

Their families cried, clapped and cheered. Sly, serving as Lucky's best man, glanced at bridesmaid Allyson. She smiled back at him. Nikolas' best man, Andrèsj paused to catch the eye of another bridesmaid. Lesley Lu winked.

"Ladies and gentleman, I now present, the Cassadines and the Spencers."

The future promised to shine brightly.

~*~

"Patience has its rewards."

Zander turned at the sound of Nikolas' voice. He stood in the grand foyer of the newly restored Wyndemere. Portraits of Alexis and Helena hung high on the walls. Since claiming the mansion as his home, Zander often paused at the paintings. He wondered if his mother would have been proud of him and if grandmother would have loved him. Had he fully mastered the art of being a Cassadine?

"I heard that the WSB have given you and Dawn permission to work together," he said. "Congratulations."

"Thank you." Nikolas moved to stand beside him. He gazed at the portraits. His eyes held a faraway look.

"Having second thoughts?"

"About being the heir?" Nikolas asked. "No, I like my life the way it is. How's it going? You and Zarek seem to be as tight as brothers."

Zander stiffened.

"I didn't mean anything by that," Nikolas quickly added. "Relax. Zarek is not only my cousin, he's also my brother-in-law. Any animosity we harbored has been buried. Our wives will allow nothing less. I believe you can trust him."

"I do."

"And Father. He only wants the best for the family. Listen to him. He haven't survived this long without being the wisest member of our family." Nikolas moved to leave.

Zander called out, "Did you come all the way out here to tell me that?"

"No. I came to remind you we're family and to let you know that if you need me, I'm only a telephone call away."

Prince Alexander Smith Cassadine spoke loud and clearly. "Thanks."

THE END