Protective Arms (Completed)

46. Forever Hold Your Peace

Glorious songs from the birds fill the afternoon quietness. Nothing can break today and I know what tomorrow brings with trial but I am leaving that for later, because today I marry Zack.

There is not going to be any tuxes or suite but Zack did pull out his uniform that he has to wear for trial. Now that I did ask him to wear for today because we need good memories with it. Not to mention, he is sexy as ever. What is it about uniforms?

We have already had breakfast and showered. My hair is nice and soft laying straight but I may do some small curling around the edges to bring it in. Currently, I am just waiting on Chasity and Bethany to pull up, since the three of us are driving over together. Brit is here already with Zack talking over a file.

Seems like some work is being done for them but I don't mind. It is another case that does need his attention to where the suspects will be caught. I know that I will have his attention when the time comes and that is all that matters to me.

I let out a small sigh, part of me wishes my parents knew but they are busy still. Mom did text saying that much at least. Can't blame a girl for wanting her parents here, but they still don't even know because none of this is text material it needs to be vocal words.

A knock at the door pulls me from my thoughts. I step over and open it to the girls who are dressed and ready like I am.

"You look so beautiful Athena." Bethany hugs me.

"My brother is one lucky man." Chasity hugs me next.

"Thank you! You both look stunning."

"That I am." Zack kisses my head. "We will follow in behind you ladies."

"I'll walk you out." Brit moves to hold his arm out for Bethany. I watch as she actually blushes and wraps her hand around his elbow as they walk to the cars.

Chasity and I step out of the house and Zack locks up.

"My ladies." Zack bows to me, causing me to laugh while he holds out both arms for Chasity and me.

"You're crazy bubby, but I will let you slide today." Chasity giggles.

Zack makes sure we are in the car and he jumps in his truck. Today us girls are car pooling in Bethany's car to the station. The Chief had called this morning and we are all set to go, apparently his wife done up somethings late last night for us today.

"I can't believe you're finally getting this Athena. There is nothing better than seeing you happy. I, for one, am so glad and happy for you." Bethany tears up some as we step out of the car.

"Aww, Beth." I hug her tight. "You have been the best friend any girl could ask for and never failed to call me out or give me the push I needed."

Zack walks over and Chief is with him.

"I hope you don't mind it seems a few of the Officers want to join the ceremony as well? Plus my wife is here." Chief smiles.

I shake my head some. "Not at all." I smile back, as Zack takes my hand.

"I'll see you there." Zack winks and Chief walks off.

Sam and Carol pull up next getting out to hug my tight.

"Zack's already around back." I smile.

My face may break with all the smiling, or my arms jello from so much hugging. I will soak it all in though.

"I will show you folks around back." Brit takes them to where I guess some seating is at.

With a glance at my watch, it is time to start walking that way ourselves. To bad I didn't get that slight curl with my hair, since now a small section is getting in my face.

Bethany, Chasity, and I walk to the back and it is full of people. We stop just as we hear Chief letting everyone know to take a seat.

"Wait! I got something for you." Bethany pulls my arm some.

"This is your something borrowed." She smiles and takes a clip out of her pocket.

"Oh Bethany." I smile at the small clip. It is one we used to have as children and her mother had gave it to her before she moved here with me. Small diamonds on the clip sparkle in the afternoon sun. She takes the hair and moves it to the side where now the rose gold, floral clip holds it out of my eye.

"Thank you." I whisper.

I hold onto Bethany and Chasity's arms, together the three of us walk up to Zack. The girls kiss my cheek and move to stand off to the side. I take Zack's hands and we look at Chief.

"Today we are here for a special occasion. Zack Gatlin and Athena Greg are here today to bring love and be loved to each other. Today we mark their day with marriage."

I look at Zack and his eyes find mine. I have an overwhelming feeling going through me that is nothing but love.

"If anyone does not agree with this union, speak now or forever hold your peace." Chief's voice rings out clear, with almost a challenge to it.

"Zack please repeat after me. I, Zack Gatlin, to take Athena Greg to have and to hold from this day forward. For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sicknesss and in health. to love and to cherish until death do we part."

Zack repeats each word the Chief does.

"Please place this ring on Athena's finger. This ring is to symbol you vows and the union you are forming with her her today. If you ever should go through bad days, look at your bride and her ring to remind you of the vows you speak here today."

The rings are gently placed on my finger. Chief turns to me and I repeat everything just like Zack had done before me, word for word. Before placing the ring on his finger. With our hands back together, Zack squeezes mine and smiles so large.

"I am the Chief of the police station in Eestes Springs and I hereby pronouce you Mr. and Mrs. Zack Gatlin. You may now kiss your gorgeous bride."

Zack pulls my hands to where I am flush against him, as he let's go to cup my cheek kissing me so hard and tipping me back. Everything around me goes quiet as I can focus only on Zack's lips with my own that are full of our love and passion for each other.

A/N---
Hey Hey Guys!!!

What do you guys think?

To simple or cheesy? It's a little more than the simple courthouse wedding but this may be just want they secretly needed too!