Chapter 8 - Growing Closer

As the final preparations entered their feverish last stages, Victoria found solace in recalling treasured moments which assured their love's endurance through all.

One rainy eve, a carriage accident stranded two small children in their bustling streets. Victoria insisted they stay the night, doting on them with warmed milk and stories by the fire. Word spread of her kindness.

Later, upon discovering a shop girl's vast talent, Victoria promoted her to assistant without hesitation. The girl's seamstress mother wept, overcome with relief at no longer fearing hunger that winter.

Small threads of goodness Victoria sowed wherever fortune smiled grew into a tapestry proving goodness needs no pedigree. It swelled her heart knowing Fred witnessed these acts cementing why she deserved not judgment, but celebration.

In turn, Fred showered Victoria with devoted support. Accompanying her on supplier visits, he attentively aided negotiations while discreetly slipping coin to workers' hungry children. His doting handling of Victoria's every comfort cemented her as his life's treasured jewel, not merely possession.

Together they exemplified partnership nourishing both sensual and soulful dimensions of love. While rumors swirled, their steadfastness inspired many facing prejudice to persevere as they had.

Far too soon, the fated day was upon them. Victora woke radiant as the sunrise, heart fit to burst preparing to pledge herself before family and God. Adjusting her crown of yellow roses, she smiled imaging Fred's proud smile upon first glimpse of his bride.

Downstairs, Fred paced in equal turns of nerves and impatience, palms sweating at the knowledge his lifelong dream was soon reality. His mind replayed each milestone cementing their bond. From shy glances in candlelight to passionate unions beneath stars, their love had transformed from secrecy to power lighting society's darkest undercurrents.

At last, the grand church bells' clarion call announced the ceremony's commencement. Locking eyes across the full pews, Fred and Victoria saw only each other, all doubts vanquished in a heartbeat. This was no one moment, but a love which would stand eternal. Hand in hand they recited sacred vows as one soul in two bodies, eternally joined in spirit, heart and flesh come what may.

Their celebratory feast lasted into thewitching hours. Smiling upon their adoring crowds delivering well-wishes, Fred embraced Victoria tightly, whispering "My blossom, our light now shine for all who will see. This is but the first chapter of adventures we shall face side by side."

At long last, their bond was sealed in full view of heavens and haters alike. A new age was dawning for those whose love lifts them above life's trials. The future awaited its architects, hope personified.,,