Page 49 of Happily Ever After
"I love you, Sunshine."
"Ahem," Father Josef tries again, and this time we pull apart, and, laughing, turn to him.
He graces us with a warm smile and begins.
"I went to a wedding recently… as a guest," he begins, his Italian accent pronounced, lending him an extra touch of charm. "The priest made an interesting claim. He said marriage is an act of worship.
"That statement touched something inside me, and I pondered it for a long while afterward.
"Marriage isn't merely a contract signed in the eyes of the law or a celebration for family and friends. In the grand tapestry of life, marriage is a masterpiece where two individuals, each a unique brushstroke, come together to create something beyond their individual selves. It's a dance of souls, and a celebration of the divine within each other, a commitment to nurture and cherish the flame of God that flickers within. It is a promise to support, uplift, and stand beside one another as stewards of this vast and wondrous universe.
"The challenges you face, the triumphs you celebrate—they all become threads woven into your shared destiny. In the crucible of life, your commitment transforms you into beings of greater love, wisdom, and compassion.
"As you exchange vows today, remember that they are not mere words; they are a sacred oath. The rings you place upon each other's fingers are not just symbols of commitment but carry the divine essence of your union.
"May your marriage be a sanctuary where love blossoms, where forgiveness heals, and where understanding flourishes. May it be a testament to the transcendent power of love to overcome all obstacles."
Wow!
For a moment, I'm speechless. I didn't expect this unassuming man who often deals with mobsters to possess so much poetic wisdom. Or perhaps it's because of those people that he's found such depth.
His words resonate deep within my soul.
The commitment we're making today transcends the ordinary.
It's a pledge to support each other not only in joy but also in adversity—and haven't we proven that already?
"Now, Aiden, I believe you wanted to say a few words," Father Josef invites, inclining his head toward me.
I turn fully to Ella and take in her beautiful face. Her eyes shimmer with emotions as my fingers dust over the back of her hand.
I haven't practiced this speech. I wanted it to be spontaneous and from the heart. Now, I'm not so sure that was a good idea.
Where to begin…
Closing my eyes, I focus on the touch of Ella's skin on mine, her warmth, her scent… her very presence.
Opening them again, I'm met with the most brilliant smile and soft eyes, telling me how much she loves me.
Now, the words flow from me with ease.
"Ella, the very first time I saw you… I remember it as if it were yesterday."You girls were staying in that hotel in Taormina on your Sicily trip, and I was there with Lex who had flown in to surprise Rhia for their anniversary. He and I were about to leave when she remembered she left something she wanted to give to Lex in her room and was rushing back to get it. None of us knew you were already on your way to bring it to her." I pause, letting those memories wash over me. My entire body lights up, remembering that next moment. That moment that changed my life forever… that moment that would shape and define my future.
"Even before the elevator doors opened, my eyes were drawn across the busy hotel lobby toward them. Then you stepped out."
Goosebumps erupt all over my body. It's like I'm living that moment all over again.
"One look at you and I knew it was over."
My sunshine laughs at that, and I join in.
"I mean every word. Life as I knew it was over.
"In fact, a sense that my real life was only beginning took hold.
"You stole my breath away… standing there in that happy, sunny dress. I swear you shone brighter than the sun, filling me with so much warmth that my heart melted for you right then and there."It felt like the earth was shifting beneath my feet and rearranging itself… It confused the hell out of me. "I had to look away to catch my breath and calm my suddenly racing heart.
"Lex was talking to me, but I heard nothing. When I looked back in your direction, your eyes were on me, and I swear I died and saw the light.
