Page 40 of Pitch for You

I stood before the antique mirror, reflection framed by the delicate lace of my wedding gown.

“Your hair looks lovely,” Helen said, carefully arranging the last strands into an intricate updo. My eyes met her own in the mirror, filled with gratitude for my friend's unwavering support.

“Thank you,” I whispered, running my fingers over the intricate lace sleeves, feeling the familiar callouses earned from years of hard work on the ranch. It was a reminder of the life I built and the love that finally found me.

“Are you ready?” Diane asked, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder. She had been there for me, offering advice and laughter when needed.

“Almost,” I replied, taking a deep breath to steady myself. “I just need a moment with Max.”

“Of course.” Diane nodded, understanding the bond between mother and son. She and the other bridesmaids exited the room, leaving us alone.

“Mom!” He wore a miniature suit, tailored to fit him perfectly. In his hands, he clutched a small velvet box containing the rings. “It's almost time!”

“Come here, sweetheart.” I knelt down, eyes filling with tears as I took in the sight of my grown-up little boy. The weight of the responsibility I carried as a mother, the struggles we face together, it was all worth it for moments like these.

“Max, I know things have been challenging, but I want you to know how much I love you and how proud I am to have you as my son.” I brushed a stray lock of hair away from his forehead.

“Mom, I love you too. And I'm really happy for you and Brett.”

“Thank you, sweetie.” I hugged him. “Now, are you ready to walk down the aisle as the best man?”

“Absolutely!”

“Let's do this!” I whispered, taking one last deep breath. I stood up, ready to embrace the future that awaited at the end of the aisle.

The ranch transformed into a fairy tale. Rows of white chairs lined the aisle, each adorned with bunches of vibrant flowers, their petals fluttering gently in the soft breeze. Delicate fairy lights twinkled from above, weaving through the branches of towering oak trees, while the scent of fresh greenery and blooming flowers filled the air.

A rustic archway stood proudly at the end of the aisle, its wooden frame lovingly wrapped in an array of lush greenery. It was the perfect symbol of love, strong and unwavering, just like the bond between Brett and I.

“Mom, it's time,” Max whispered, taking my trembling hand in his. I looked down at him. He wanted to walk me down the aisle so I wouldn’t have to do it alone. My little boy had grown up to be quite a sweet boy.

“Ready?”

“Ready!” Max beamed, his eyes shining.

As the music began to play, I took a deep breath, feeling the butterflies swarm in my stomach. With every step I took downthe aisle, the memories of my past struggles seemed to fade away, replaced by the warmth of love. My veil danced gracefully behind me.

As I approached the altar, I locked eyes with Brett, and the world around us seemed to blur into a haze. His blue eyes sparkled, reflecting the depth of his feelings for me. The corners of his mouth turned up in a tender smile, sending a wave of reassurance rushing through my veins.

“Hey,” Brett whispered.

“Hey.”

This was where I was meant to be - standing beside the man who reignited the fire within my soul.

“Are you ready?” Brett asked, his fingers brushing against mine in a comforting gesture.

“More than ever,” I answered with a smile, eyes shining with unshed tears. The past had been a journey full of obstacles and heartache, but now, as I stood before her future, it had all led me to this moment of pure happiness.

The ceremony began and I tried to keep my composure, but once it was time for vows - my nerves got worse.

“Today, I promise to stand by your side,” Brett began, his voice strong and steady as he gazed into my eyes. “To support you through life's challenges and to cherish every moment we share together. I vow to always do my best to give more than I take, and not keep score.” He wiped a tear from his eyes. “And the most important of all, if fortunate enough to have children with you, I’ll consider myself lucky. I’ve had a front row seat to see you as a mother and the way you love him is unmatched. I’m madly in love with the person you are and the person you will become.”

My heart swelled with love as I listened to Brett's words. I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment settle around me like a comforting embrace. “I promise to believein us, even when the world may have doubts,” I said, voice trembling slightly with emotion. “To trust in our love, our strength, and our bond. I promise to always fight for you, pursue you, and love you wholeheartedly and unconditionally for the rest of my life.”

I glanced out at the sea of faces - my friends, my family, my community.

“Mommy?” Max's small voice echoed across the ranch, drawing everyone's attention. Dressed in his miniature suit, he stood proudly before the crowd. “Can I say something?”

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