Emotion welled in my chest as I watched the scene unfold. This was my family, the people who had stood by me through thick and thin. How'd I get so lucky?

The bridal march filled the air, and my spine tingled with anticipation. This was it. The moment we'd been waiting for. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the sight of my bride.

And then there she was—Amelia. She looked like a dream come true in her stunning white gown, delicate flowers woven through her hair. Her arm was looped through her father’s, pride radiating off him. Hero pranced dutifully beside Amelia like he was the real star of the show, our rings glinting on his collar.

As they approached, I fought back tears, my chest tightening.

Her father placed Amelia's hand in mine, his eyes misty. "Take care of my girl, Trevor."

I met his gaze squarely, my voice low and firm. "Sir, I'd lay down my life for her. You have my word." And I meant it with every fiber of my being.

Amelia's eyes locked onto mine, and suddenly, everything else faded away. The officiant's voice became a distant hum as we prepared to exchange our vows. Amelia started, her voice steady despite the emotion shining in her eyes.

"Trevor, our story started long before you became the infuriating—yet undeniably handsome—firefighter who moved in upstairs. Remember that shy freshman with a hopeless crush on the cool senior?" She paused a mix of nostalgia and amusement in her voice. "That kiss behind the bleachers... and then you were gone."

The crowd murmured softly, and I felt a pang of old regret.

"When you came back, I was determined to hate you. But life had other plans." Her smile widened. "From early morning wake-up calls to replanting my garden after Hurricane Hero, you showed me a different side of Trevor Phillips. The kind, loyal, incredibly thoughtful man beneath that rugged exterior."

She glanced down at our furry ring bearer, who wagged his tail proudly.

"You've become my true partner in ways that teenage me could never have imagined. I promise to stand by your side, to be your rock during tough times, and to celebrate every joy. I love you, Trevor, and I can't wait to write the rest of our story together."

Eight Months Later…

As Amelia finished, I swallowed hard against the lump in my throat. Those memories of our past, the regrets, and the beautiful journey that led us here hit me at once. Now, it was my turn to pour my heart out to this incredible woman who had given me a second chance.

"Amelia, you came into my life like a whirlwind, with your vibrant personality and uncanny ability to keep me on my toes. From our paintball mishaps to the quiet moments spent in your shop, you've brought color and laughter into my world. You've seen me at my best and worst, and you've never wavered in your love and support. I promise to be your partner in every sense of the word, protect you, make you laugh, and cherish every moment we have together. You're my home, Amelia, and I'm so grateful to be starting this new chapter with you."

As we exchanged rings, my hands were steadier than I expected. Hero sat there like a furry, panting pillow as I untied the rings. I slipped the band onto Amelia's finger, marveling at how something so small could mean so much.

The moment the officiant declared us married, I pulled Amelia close, our lips meeting in a kiss that said everything words couldn't. Our friends and family cheers barely registered until the unmistakable wail of sirens cut through the air.

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Looks like the boys have cooked up something special," I whispered to Amelia. “Are you ready for your first official firefighter's wife experience?"

Her eyes sparkled with that mix of curiosity and mischief I loved so much. "Bring it on, Mr. Phillips. I'm all in."

I grabbed her hand, and we made our way down the aisle, dodging the floral confetti assault from our enthusiastic guests. As we stepped outside the greenhouse, I felt my chest swell with pride. My fellow firefighters stood lined up in full gear, axes raised to form an archway that glinted in the sunlight.

Amelia's eyes were as wide as saucers. "Trevor, this is... wow. I had no idea you guys did this."

I couldn't help but grin. "What, you thought we just sat around playing checkers at the station all day?"

Amelia's laughter rang out, clear and bright. "Well, I did wonder how you got so good at board games."

As we approached the archway, I spotted Chief Johnson off to the side, holding a fire hose with a glint in his eye that spelled trouble. I leaned in close to Amelia, my lips brushing her ear. "I'm not saying we're about to get soaked, but... maybe hold your breath?"

She squeezed my hand, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Bring it on, Firefighter Florist. I’m not afraid of a little bit of water."

We charged forward, ducking under the gleaming axes and into a spray of water that left us laughing and sputtering. As we emerged on the other side, I caught sight of my bike, decked out in flowers with a "Just Married" sign that looked suspiciously like Addy's handiwork.

Amelia gave me a sly grin. "Ready for the getaway, Mr. Phillips?"

I raised an eyebrow. "In that dress? I'm good, but even I can't promise it won't get caught in the wheels."

Her grin widened. "Who said anything about the dress?"

Before I could process what she meant, Amelia reached for the hidden zipper on her gown. She stepped out of the dress in one smooth motion, revealing a pair of well-worn jeans and a white T-shirt underneath.