Love Deferred (Andrei Roxas ans Fides Mondragon Story)

Chapter 54: Christening

The sun streamed through the stained glass windows of the church, casting colorful patterns on the polished wooden pews. Today was a special day, and the air was filled with a mixture of joy and anticipation. Fides adjusted the delicate white dress that her son Raphael Marco would wear for his christening, her heart swelling with pride. This was a moment she had envisioned countless times, and now it was finally here.

Andrei stood beside her, his hand resting on her back, offering silent support as they prepared for the ceremony. "Are you ready?" he asked, a hint of excitement in his voice.

"More than ready," Fides replied, smiling. "I can't wait for everyone to meet him."

As they made their way down the aisle, the couple's parents were already seated, their faces lit up with joy. Raphael's paternal grandparents, Xandra and Marco, wore matching outfits, each adorned with a touch of white in honor of their grandson's special day. Fides' parents, Alyza and Raphael, sat next to them, equally eager for the ceremony to begin.

"Look at him!" Alyza exclaimed as Fides and Andrei approached the front, cradling little Raphael Marco in their arms. "He's so precious! Just like his grand Dads."

"I agree," Marco chimed in, his eyes shining with pride. "He's going to grow up to be a strong and kind man, just like Andrei and us."

Xandra leaned over to her husband, Raphael. "Can you believe how fast time has flown? It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating Andrei's graduation."

"Time does have a way of surprising us," Raphael replied, a nostalgic smile creeping across his face. "But today is about our little angel."

As the ceremony began, the priest welcomed the gathered family and friends, their faces a sea of smiles and warm greetings. The sound of soft music filled the air, enhancing the sense of sacredness that enveloped the room. Fides held Raphael Marco close, whispering gentle words of love into his tiny ear.

When it was time for the baptism, Fides and Andrei stepped forward, joined by their chosen godparents. The priest spoke solemn words of blessing as water was poured over Raphael's forehead, and the congregation responded with a collective "Amen."

Tears of happiness glistened in Xandra's eyes as she watched her grandson being welcomed into the faith. Alyza clasped her hands together, a look of pure adoration on her face. "He's officially part of our family's legacy now," she said, beaming.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued at LC Residences Pavilion, a pavilion intentionally constructed for gatherings which will be held in LC Residences, where a beautiful cake adorned with blue and white icing awaited them. The tables were decorated with floral arrangements, and the joyous chatter of family filled the room.

"Let's make a toast!" Marco called out, raising his glass. "To Raphael Marco! May his life be filled with love, happiness, and success!"

"And to his amazing parents!" Alyza added, her eyes glistening with pride. "You both have done an incredible job, and I can't wait to see him grow up."

Everyone raised their glasses, echoing the cheers for the newest member of the family. As laughter and stories flowed, Fides caught sight of her parents, who were sitting closely together, their expressions radiating warmth and joy.

"Look at them," Fides said softly to Andrei, her heart swelling with gratitude. "They're so proud."

Andrei nodded, his eyes reflecting the love he felt for his family. "We've been blessed, haven't we?"

As the day wore on, the celebrations included games, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of opportunities for everyone to hold and adore little Raphael Marco. The grandparents took turns cradling him, their faces lighting up with happiness each time he cooed or smiled.