CHAPTER FOURTEEN - FIELDS OF GOLD - FINAL CHAPTER

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"Many years have passed since those summer days
Among the fields of barley
See the children run as the sun goes down
Among the fields of gold"

- Eva Cassidy (Fields Of Gold)

As Sorscha reviewed her reflection in the mirror she couldn't quite believe it. It was her wedding day and now, there was only an hour to go until the ceremony. She checked her pocket for the hundredth time, making sure that her handwritten vows were still safe and sound. Sorscha had never been much of a dress girl so she'd chosen a navy blue suit. As she tried to calm her nerves, her Mammy came up behind her and wrapped her arms around her waist before resting her head on Sorschas shoulder. "You look beautiful love. I'm so proud of you."

They'd decided as a couple that Clodagh would walk down the aisle and meet Sorscha at the alter. It only seemed fitting that once again, Sorscha would be waiting for her love. In the years since their reunion, although Clodaghs parents had somewhat accepted their relationship they'd chosen not to attend their wedding. As she waited, Sorscha thought of the many times she'd consoled Clodagh when she'd asked "why can't they just accept me completely?" Sorscha's Dad had offered to walk Clodagh down the aisle, suggesting that he 'accompany her into their family' rather than 'give her away.'

As the music began, Sorscha's heart began to pound. The time had come for them to declare their love proudly for the world to see, no hiding, no pretending. They'd chosen Songbird by Eva Cassidy, as it reminded them of summer days and cosy nights together. As she heard Clodagh approaching her, it was finally time to turn around. There she was, wearing a beautiful white dress and a glittering veil, arm in arm with Sorschas father who was beaming. Clodaghs sparkling eyes were complimented by stunning sapphire earrings.

The beginning of the ceremony passed by in a blur, as both women could barely take their eyes off each other. Eventually, it was time for their vows and as it was Sorschas turn first, she reached into her pocket and retrieved them. Initially she felt nervous but as she began to speak, her nerves dissipated when the words took hold of her heart.

Clodagh,

From the very first moment I met you, my heart belonged to you. You're the reason for everything I do, you're my inspiration and my constant. Whenever I'm worried, I look to you and see everything good within this world. Once upon a time, I genuinely thought the love that I felt was wrong, but everything about us is so right and so perfect. You've taught me what it truly means to be kind, I've never known anything quite as beautiful as your heart. You make me want to be the best version of myself and because of you, I am truly living.

I promise to love you, forever and always, in this lifetime and any others. I'll never leave you alone and I'll never make you cry. Thank you for coming back for me, my eternal love.

As she looked into Clodagh's eyes, Sorscha felt proud. She could see how much her words had meant to her soon to be wife and since she'd never been so great with words, she felt glad she'd got this right. As Clodagh looked right back at her, she started to speak. Sorscha beamed as she thought to herself "of course she's memorised her vows, my perfect girl."

My Darling Sorscha,

Thank you for waiting for me. The way you hold me so safely within your heart makes me feel so loved. When everything kept us apart, the thought of you was all that kept me sane. You're strong, passionate, kind and loving and I can't wait to start a family with you.

I promise to protect you and to love you until my dying day. You will always be my first and last thought and I'll always be here to support you.

I love you more everyday and I'm constantly in awe of the person you are. My love for you is eternal, you are my world. Thank you for choosing me Sorscha.

Tears filled both of their eyes as Clodagh finished her vows. They'd made it, safe and sound, together forever. Being surrounded by people who loved them and wanted nothing more than to celebrate their love for each other, had healed something within both of them like nothing else had ever been able to.

As they walked back down the aisle together, the tie between them now official, they both smiled when they spotted it. Right at the front was an empty chair decorated with baby blue ribbons. On the seat lay a note, the words handwritten and having come directly from the heart.

This seat is for you Gorgeous. We miss you and we love you. One day, we'll tell our children all about you George. You're always with us.

Love your Sunshine & Cupcake x

❤️

"You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Upon the fields of barley
You'll forget the sun in his jealous sky
As we walk in fields of gold"

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