Rachael was nervous.  Well at least she thought she was.  In actuality she was probably a bit more anxious than she was nervous.  For today was the day.  It was the culmination of the last three years.  She knew to the core of her being that she was going to go through with it.  She straightened her clothing one last time as the car pulled up.  The door opened and Rachael pushed her way out, ensuring that her dress did not catch on anything.  She flirted a smile at the onlookers, appeasing the crowd.  Her father took her arm and walked her to the door.  It was from there that she caught sight of him.

 

Ian stood at the altar, smart, upright and handsome.  If he was nervous he was hiding it very well.  His confident, warm demeanour filled the room with joy.  As the music began to play the bride to be locked eyes with her lover as she gracefully walked down the aisle, preceded by flower girls in gorgeous blue dresses.  Nothing could knock the smile from either of their faces.  Today was the beginning of everything for them.

 

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union between man and woman," the minister read.  His words did not quite reach the ears of Ian or Rachael, but rather flitted around them as their concentration was so firmly fixed upon each other.  For several more minutes the minister spoke until finally the couple were asked to read their own vows.

 

Ian began.  "I, Ian Masters, do solemnly swear to love you, Rachael, my shining angel, until the day I die.  I promise to be with you through sickness and health, through trials, tribulations and celebrations.  Whether we make a million dollars or live like paupers I will love you always."

 

Following his declaration of love, Rachael began with hers.  "I, Rachael Dawson, will love you with all my heart for the rest of my life.  I will honour and serve you out of love and respect.  You are the rock in my life, the strength I will always need.  You complete me and I will love you forever."

 

And with that they exchanged rings and passionately kissed one another.  The whole chapel erupted with clapping and cheering.  The newlyweds walked back down the aisle, through a hail of confetti, relief, love and happiness adorning their young faces.  Eventually they reached their awaiting car and drove off to begin their lives together.

 

to be continued...