Everyone moved to their seats, which was when they noticed the screens and who was on them. They cheered and waved, greeting their friends and family. The music started, and the room quieted down.
At the end of the aisle stood Ward, looking as handsome as ever in a black suit and royal blue dress shirt. Clara came to stand next to him and held her arm out. King laughed softly, kissed her cheek, and looped her arm with his. Several of their family members were already crying, but Leo did his best to keep it together.
As Clara walked King down the aisle accompanied by slow, instrumental Christmas music, outside the snow started to fall, and Leo’s Winter Wonderland wedding was complete. After all the work putting it together, Leo couldn’t believe the time had come. This was really happening.
King reached the arch. He thanked Clara and turned to face Leo. “I can’t believe you did all this. For us,” he said quietly. “You really are a gift, Leo.Mygift.”
Leo sniffed and took King’s hands in his. “I can’t wait to be your husband, Ward.” He nodded to Santa, who smiled softly.
“Welcome, friends and family. Tonight, we have gathered here to celebrate the union of two remarkable individuals, Leopold de Loughrey and Ward Kingston. Not only are we here to witness the joining of two hearts, but to celebrate the love and support that surrounds Leo and Ward. Today is a testament to the power of love.” Santa turned to Leo. “Do you have something you would like to say to Ward?”
Leo nodded. He took a deep breath and met King’s gaze. “Ward, from the moment we met, we set off on an incredible adventure together. You started off as my protector and ended up as so much more. Today, in front of the people we love the most, I’m here to make you some promises. I promise to always be your partner in crime, to make you laugh and love you the way you deserve to be loved. Ward, you’re not just my hero but the keeper of my heart. Will you join me on this new adventure?” He took a black and silver band from Santa and slipped it onto King’s left ring finger.
“Yes,” King replied, tears in his eyes.
“Ward?” Santa asked.
King took the matching ring from Santa. “Leo, from the moment we met, I knew in that instant that my life had been forever changed. I promise to love you always, no matter what’s going on in our lives. Not just through the good times but through the difficult and messy times. I promise to always be there for you.
“To be your protector, your confidant, your partner in crime, and a shoulder to lean on. I’ll continue to cherish the unique quirks that make you Leo. Not just for today but for every day for the rest of our lives, no matter where this adventure leads us. Leo, will you make me the happiest man in the world and be my husband?”
Leo nodded fervently, laughing through a sniff as King slipped the ring onto his finger.
“I now declare you husband and husband. You may kiss.”
Everyone jumped to their feet and cheered as Leo threw himself into King’s arms, making him laugh before they kissed. Leo’s heart was all but ready to burst out of his chest.They were married!He kissed King with everything he had until they were forced to come up for air.
King placed Leo on his feet, and they turned to their family, white flower petals showering them as they walked back down the aisle to hug everyone. Fitz hugged Leo tight, his cheeks wet from tears. He whispered in Leo’s ear.
“You’re amazing. Never forget that. If you do, I’ll be there to remind you.”
Leo swallowed hard. He hugged Fitz back. It was difficult not to let the tears loose as everyone congratulated him and said such wonderful things. This was his family, and they loved him, all of him. Whether he was having a good day or a terrible day, they loved him and would never leave him. He understood that now.
Once everyone had hugged and congratulated them, Leo and King approached the table with the cake. There would be time for a big party later. He’d discuss it with King. For now, they had cake, champagne, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine for those among them who didn’t drink alcohol.
When they got close enough, King let out a bark of laughter. He’d spotted the cake toppers. With joy sparkling in his eyes, he pointed to one.
“Han Solo.”
Then the other.
“Spock.”
Leo gasped. “Youdoknow them!”
“Of course I do, baby. Anything that’s important to you is important to me. I’ve watched all your favorite movies.”
Leo narrowed his eyes. “Evil.” Then he melted. “I love you so much.”
“I love you, too, sweetheart.” King cocked his head. “What’s that?” He reached over to pick up the picture frame, a soft gasp escaping him. “Where do you get this?”
Leo worried his bottom lip. “I hope it’s okay. I asked Bibi to send me a photo of your parents. That way, they could be here with us.” He pointed to the other frame. “My mom. Dad sent me a picture of her so she could be here, too.”
King carefully placed the frame back on the table, then grabbed Leo and pulled him into a tight embrace. His voice was full of emotion when he whispered, “You never cease to amaze me. Thank you.”
After they cut the cake and everyone had a chance to chat, they said goodnight to their family and friends on screen. Then Leo turned to King.
“I have one more surprise for you. But we have to go outside.”
