VOWS II

These questions kept popping up till the voices of my parents startled me.

"Wow! My baby girl looks so beautiful!" exclaimed my mother with tears in her eyes as she gave me a head-to-toe look filled with emotions. I could feel her love and pride radiating so strongly that it instantly made my heart feel warm. "I know Maverick will love everything he sees. You look breathtaking Scarlet!" she continued, beaming at me.

Then, my father chimed in, bursting with pride as well. "No, my baby girl is the most beautiful bride that has ever existed. You're not just beautiful, your beauty is priceless."

Their words were like a soothing balm to my soul on my big day. I felt inundated with their love and support, and I couldn't be more grateful. "Mom, Dad, thank you," I said, my voice shaking a little. I was so overwhelmed with emotions at that moment that tears started welling up in my eyes.

"No, don't cry baby, you'll ruin your makeup," they both shushed me, wiping away my tears. "Now, let's get you to your future husband," my dad said with a smile.

But before leaving, I had to ask about Jordan. "Where's Jordan?" I asked, scanning the room.

"Oh!... He went ahead. We'll meet him there," my father replied with a knowing smile.

And with that, I took one last look at myself in the mirror, and with the love of my parents and the excitement of my wedding day, I headed out to meet my destiny. Yes, the wedding came too soon but if my parents want this for me, then I trust them completely. I might have not gone on dates before but right now after today, I'm ready and willing to learn everything. I just hope he likes me, that's enough for a start. We should at least like each other before love comes in.

AT THE CHURCH

So... You're getting married? Luke asked still surprised.

What's your problem dude?

I don't have any, I just don't understand you lately, You've been switching like a television are you ready to commit? He asked with a worried frown.

Look... I get you, and I want you to know that I'm serious. Things might be happening in a rush now but you'll understand when the time comes.

Does she know you? Does she have any idea of the man she's marrying? Luke asked worried.

I don't plan on building a glass house for her to live in Luke! I don't do glass houses so I'll tell her the truth about me. It's the first step to fixing this before someone else does.

What if she doesn't accept you?

Then we'll live with it till she gets used to it.

Do you love her? Luke asked dropping the bomb.

I... I don't know. He stuttered for the very first time in the History of Beryl.

You don't know?

Yes... I know I felt an attraction towards her from our first meeting but besides that nothing else. I just met her. I explained losing my patience.

This is weird! Luke exclaimed.

You don't need to keep sounding like a broken record, are you with me or not? I asked impatiently.

Till death do us, part bro, I just don't want you stuck in between, because you always get bored with women.

 Well... this isn't just any woman. She may be way younger than I am but I'll take care of her the way she deserves it. If feelings come, good and fine if they don't I'll accept it. Was all he said as he stood and adjusted his tie waiting for the wedding ceremony to begin.

As the ceremony began the various persons entered and the moment they were all waiting for arrived, The bride walked in looking breathtaking, everyone gasped at the sight of her appearance. She was like a white Jem amid people. 

BERYL'S POV

As I stood there, my heart was racing with anticipation. I looked at her and felt like I was seeing her for the first time. Her gown fit her perfectly, hugging every curve and accentuating her natural beauty. I took her father's hand and felt a rush of emotion at the thought of taking care of her for the rest of our lives.

As we turned to face the pastor, I felt a surge of emotions for her. All doubts and worries melted away, it was strange because this was the very first time I was experiencing something like this.

The pastor spoke and I felt Scarlett squeeze my hand. I knew that this wasn't easy for her, she was marrying a man she knew nothing about, How can I make her feel secure? Make her feel assured when I don't even know how I feel. 

I took a deep breath and looked into her eyes. "Scarlett, my love, my soulmate - I promise to be the best version of myself for you. I promise to listen, to be patient, and to always be here for you. You are my world, my everything, and I will love you unconditionally for all time."

As I spoke, I saw tears glistening in her eyes. I hoped with all hope that my words help her feel secure.

Maverick... I know I don't know much about you and our relationship is the strangest, but I promise to be a good wife, a good partner, your resting place, your peace, your home and your love. I promise to cherish you and show you complete love and attention. You will be my king and I'll be your Queen for as long as I live.

Do you, Mr Beryl Maverick Park take Miss Scarlett Jem Lockwood to be your lawfully wedded wife?

I do. He responded as she slipped the ring on his finger.

Do you, Miss Scarlet Jem Lockwood take Mr Beryl Maverick Park to be your lawfully wedded husband? 

I do. She responded as he slipped the ring on her finger.

I now pronounce you Husband and wife! You may now kiss the bride. The priest said with a cheerful smile. 

SCARLET'S POV

This was going to be my first kiss. I wonder how it's going to feel, will I get butterflies in my tummy? Or will I feel sparks? I can barely see through this veil, I haven't even seen his face properly. Last night he left without even saying good night I hope it doesn't repeat itself. I guess I'll know how it feels when he kisses me...