Pretty Boy: The Lost Chapters

Brad's Survival Arc: Part 24

With winter being in full swing, the sky had darkened several hours ago. Overhead clouds were thick, completely shielding the moon and constellations. A light, delicate flurry fell from the heavens to paint the earth with soft, gentle white. It had yet to fully stick to the grass surrounding the estate, however, vibrant blades felt more crunchy when traversing across them. 

A long stone pathway leading away from a single gazebo was illuminated by fairy lights woven into tree branches and nearby plant sculptures. Tall windows made it possible for indoor lighting to shine outside as well, bathing certain sections in a more saturated champagne color. Reflective crystals on hanging chandeliers had tiny rainbow slivers revealed because of the lightbulbs' intensity. They were seen in sporadic areas around a lone shadow, its owner quietly leaning against the open doorway.

Since the initial ceremony had ended a few minutes ago, all of the guests, aside from the wedding party and grooms themselves, were waiting in the reception area. A jumble of familiar voices melded into a series of random conversations to keep people occupied for the time being. 

From his spot down the hall, Marshall could catch a miniscule glimpse, between a gap in the doors, of his friends and extended family members in white formal wear. Everyone dressed in that distinct singular color caused his own attire to come off as that much more extravagant.

Marshall was clad in a black, satin dress shirt; a satin red tie; a golden waistcoat with slightly brighter accents etched into the material; a textured red and black frock coat; black pants with golden accents running down the legs; and a simple pair of black cap-toed Oxfords. A plethora of golden chains and decorative trinkets helped to vivify a few pieces of regalia he'd just been given since a few post ceremony pictures had just been taken. To further enhance an Enchanted Fairy Tale theme, both grooms were given a matching pair of single-shoulder capes and beautiful crowns—symbolic pieces meant to signify royalty.

Paul was still in the process of putting his accessories on, so Marshall was given a bit of time to get his bearings by himself.

He brought his attention down to the sweetly-scented bouquet held near his chest. The bundle was composed of roses and sunflowers; the same types he was given after accepting Paul's request to take their platonic relationship to the next level. Even though about two years flew by since then, receiving those flowers from his new boyfriend felt like it happened yesterday. And now...now they were at their wedding.

When pondering about it, Marshall believed his life had panned out quite like a real fairy tale: he started out living a life he wished he could change, met the man of his dreams through odd circumstances, had to face a few hardships, and then, finally, he was able to get to his long awaited happily ever after.

He'd been swept off his feet by his handsome knight in shining armor so easily, Marshall could only be thankful that, all things considered, he was able to get to this point. Where his life was filled with love, happiness, and a genuine intrigue in how the future was going to pan out for them.

His apparent delight was so encompassing, the colorful bouquet was gently pressed further against his chest in a tender embrace. The change in position also allowed the smell of the flowers to become richer, bringing an endearing smile to his face.

A quick camera shutter got his attention.

The photographer, Brad, Paul, and the rest of the wedding party all had either a camera or a phone up, having just taken Marshall's picture.

"Sorry to disturb, pendejo. We just couldn't pass up the opportunity." Brad took another set. "Seeing you all dressed up like this- and looking so happy- you really do look like the dashing prince straight out of a storybook."