TIFFIN 2

101

I was in shambles as we made our way down the highway. I did look good because my friends, I knew that.

I just had a feeling that Hero would surpass all that they could do for me in his own way.

He waiting for me at the alter.

What if he had second thoughts? What if, in the thick of things, he decided he missed the bachelor life?

No. I couldn't think that way. Marriage, something that he always said he never wanted, was now at the forefront of his mind.

He was mine and I was his.

When we arrived at the campground, my body froze. It was the most gorgeous place anyone could have picked. It was a woodland wonderland, surrounded by flowing water and embankments.

I could hear several kids running around near the playground, amidst the soft lullaby playing from a distance away.

Oh. That must have been the music for my walk down the isle.

Josephine and Rose helped me out of the Escalade, forming a line with Brendan and Kylie, as we all made our way into the thick woods.

"When does it start?" I whispered as we descended down a pair of stone steps.

Josephine grinned, shaking her head.

"It's already started, Kristina. Be prepared to take your father's hand as soon as we reach the carpet. This is going to be wonderful."

I took a deep, shuddering breath as they led me through brush. I could smell the earth and soil. It put me at ease.

I closed my eyes, unable to open them. My body shook like a leaf. I was too nervous. Everything was so close it was almost painful.

I must have been breathing too heavily because our line paused.

"Kristina?" Rose murmured. "Are you ready?"

I blinked my eyes open, now staring into my father's eyes. He extended a hand, squeezing mine gently. As I slung my arm around his, I saw my friends rushing to the altar.

"Ready?" Archie asked.

I smiled feebly.

"Always."

As we made our way forward, I now took notice of all the work everyone had put into this reception. Slung around the giant trees, were ribbons and bouquets of flowers.

As discussed, the atmosphere of the wedding had viking roots. The officiant was dressed in Celtic leather as well as a few of his colleagues.

Everything soon disappeared into the background as I latched my eyes on my husband. He looked much better than I could have expected.

I had seen him in a tux before but it was different this time. Just like in my vision, he was... glowing. A bright smile was plastered upon his gorgeous face, bringing attention to all his piercings.

When I reached him, he took ahold of both my delicate hands, unwilling to let go. I held back tears doing my best to listen to the officiant though to no avail.

It felt like water flooded my earbuds as I stared at Hero.

All his protectiveness, all his flaws, all his willingness to be so... cruel...

It all led us here. It was worth it.

Though he was a pain in the ass, he loved me in the only ways he knew how.

It was when we finally reached our vows, that I came back to reality.

I'd been required to bring the sheet of paper with what I wanted to say, but I found that unnecessary. As did Hero considering he hadn't brought his either.

"I swear," he started, "to love and respect you for the rest of my life. I promise to be by your side through thick and thin, for better or for worse. No matter what happens I swear to do all I can to make sure you're safe and protected. I promise to love you to the best of my ability."

I blushed, already knowing he'd given me the best vows. How could I ever top that?

I took a deep breath before speaking:

"I promise to love you faithfully. I swear that no matter how many fights we get into, whether it be in sickness and in health, I will be by your side."

The officiant stared at us eagerly, holding up his thick book.

"Go ahead and place the ring on her finger."

As Hero fit the gorgeous golden diamond on me, I nearly lost my breath.

"By the power vested in me," the officiant finished, "you may now kiss the bride."

It all happened suddenly-

Hero took ahold of my face, eyeing me intently as if giving me a warning before he leaned in.

The kiss was intense and gratifying.

I allowed all activity to melt into nothing as I gave in. We both took our time, making our kiss long and liesurely. This was my happy place, right here with him. I didn't give a damn that it was innapropriate for the moment.

When we finally pulled away, I heard the defeaning commotion of applause and screaming. I hid my face into Hero's chest, grinning.

He lifted my chin with a finger.

"I wouldn't want to be any other place than here. Know that."

The remainder of the night was spectacular. We were led down a stone path, to a built-in dance floor that looked like it had been a pool in its past life.

Much to my glee, they played many of my favorite waltzes. Hero wasn't any better than I was at dancing, but it was like we were in our own separate world.

He spun me around effortlessly as I buried my face in his chest.

Some of the families had brought their children and grandchildren which had added to the craziness.

Many of the kids were born talents, jumping and moonwalking their way on the tiles, making them the life of the party.

Both sides of the family, and every other family in between, were present and excited.

Niall and Josephine had the time of their lives, joining the crowd.

Brendan was as fruity as ever, doing a strange hand-jive for all to see.

Kylie and Rose were also just as carefree, looking deeply in love for the guys they came with. Despite all their worries it seemed everything would go their way.

Amidst everything, I was sidetracked.

As I made my way over to the sound station, I caught none other than Dorinda staring from the sidelines.

She didn't look angry.

She looked...

Mournful.

Oh no.

Without thinking I ran for her as she trudged up the stone steps away from the party.

"Dorinda, wait!"

They are officially married you guys!

Eek! Why am I so excited 👀❤🥴