Josh and Frank stood side by side at the altar, each in a silvery gray suit and crisp white shirt. Frank’s tie was lavender; Josh’s a deep, regal purple. Josh’s gaze never wavered from the back of the sanctuary.
Lyla extended her right arm to Sunday, who tucked her left hand into the crook of Lyla’s elbow. They stepped forward and paused as the music swelled. Sunday’s eyes locked on Josh’s. He exhaled, visibly moved.
The guests rose to their feet.
They began their walk down the aisle. The gown floated around Sunday like wind through a field of tall grass. The hush in the chapel was broken only by the strains of the organ and an occasional catch of breath.
When they reached the altar, Lyla released Sunday and opened her arms for a loose, joyful three-way hug with both the bride and the groom. Sunday handed her bouquet to Susan, who had taken her place nearby.
Josh reached for Sunday’s hand. Their eyes remained on each other, their connection filling the space between. No one else existed.
The officiant welcomed everyone and led them through the beginning of the service. Then came the moment they’d planned for:
“The bride and groom have written their own vows and will speak them now.”
Josh took both of Sunday’s hands. “Today I give you my hand and my heart. I promise to respect you, trust you, and stand beside you through every season of our lives. With you, I am thebest version of myself. I will cherish you and our love, honor our bond, and care for and comfort you all the days of my life.”
A sniffle echoed from the pews behind them.
Sunday fished the lace-edged handkerchief from her pocket and dabbed at her eyes. Josh smiled at her, rubbing the tops of her hands with his thumbs.
She took a breath to steady herself.
“I promise to love you with patience, kindness, and unwavering faith. I will celebrate your triumphs and support you in your struggles. I vow to grow with you, and to build a life that honors the love we’ve been given. I will make my home in you, and thank God every day for the gift of you.”
A soft chorus of sniffles followed, tissues emerging from purses and jacket pockets.
The couple exchanged rings, their hands trembling. The officiant offered a last prayer and then proclaimed, “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may seal your union with a kiss.”
Josh drew Sunday into his arms. Their kiss was sweet, certain, and sacred—the kind that bore witness to a love elevated to a lifetime commitment.
Applause rose around them as they finally parted, breathless with joy. The organist began the recessional, and Sunday and Josh turned to walk together down the aisle—their first steps into married life.
