“These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, for a lifetime of happiness.
These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes: tears of sorrow and tears of joy.
These are the hands that will comfort you in illness, and hold you when fear or grief racks your mind.
These are the hands that will hold you tight as you struggle through difficult times.
These are the hands that will give you support and encourage you to chase your dreams. Together, everything you wish for can be realized..”
“Amen.” Their voices were joined by Nia’s sister’s and Standish’s as the short but touching ceremony concluded.
“Is that it?” Nia asked the blacksmith.
“I believe your groom has more to say on the matter.”
This was Jasper’s cue, so using his free hand, he dipped into his pocket and removed a rather worn-looking piece of paper.
“Our agreement!” Nia’s eyes flew wide, and then softened.
Without unfolding it, Jasper spoke solemnly. “Equal input in making all decisions.”
“Asking not telling,” Nia added. “And no assuming.”
“No assuming,” Jasper repeated.
“Agreed,” she vowed, a smile dancing on her lips.
“As binding as ever.”
“Unless one of us wishes to add an amendment,” she added.
“But of course.”
“Is that all?” The blacksmith glanced between the two of them.
“For now,” Jasper smiled, placing the agreement in her hand. “Because our marriage will be uniquely ours.”
Nia’s eyes teared up, and when Jasper raised a hand to capture one from her lashes, she blinked the tears away. “No crying,” she whispered.
“You can always cry with me.” Jasper found himself fighting tears of his own.
But then Nia rose onto her toes and placed another kiss on Jasper’s mouth. A sweet kiss, but also a promise.
“Then ye are married,” their Scottish officiant announced.
Upon which, laughter filled the room. And knowing it was finally done, feeling shaken by the gift of marrying this woman, Jasper threaded his fingers through Nia’s without removing the tie, which, he had to admit, had been a nice addition to the ceremony.
“We’re married!” Nia whispered, holding his gaze. And as they all stepped outside into the sunlight, her words echoed the fullness Jasper experienced. He was at peace, knowing that marrying her was a completion of their journey, but also the beginning of a new one.
“We’re married.” He couldn’t help but kiss her again while the other couple led them back to the inn.
“Now what?” Nia asked, glancing around.
“A wedding breakfast!” Goldie answered. “And after that,” she grinned, “Reed and I will leave the two of you alone.”
“An excellent plan,” Jasper agreed, looking forward to an afternoon of loving… and a true wedding night.
“I have one rule,” Nia said in mock sternness.
