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The sun was shining, and the little garden venue Gabby had chosen was glowing with soft light. String lights and flowers decorated the space, giving it the simple and intimate vibe she had dreamed of.
Gabby stood in the small bridal suite, staring at her reflection in the mirror. Her dress was sleek and elegant, a white satin gown that hugged her curves just right. Tasha and Keisha were helping her with the final touches, fluffing her veil and adjusting her necklace.
"You look like a whole queen," Tasha said, stepping back to admire her.
Keisha nodded. "Zay gon' lose his mind when he sees you."
Gabby smiled nervously, smoothing her dress. "Y'all sure this is okay? I don't wanna look like I'm doing too much."
"Girl, stop," Keisha said, rolling her eyes. "You look perfect. Now stop doubting yourself."
Gabby took a deep breath, her hands trembling a little. "Alright, let's do this."
The Ceremony
Zay stood at the altar, looking sharp in a tailored black suit. His sister and a few of his closest friends sat in the small rows of chairs, waiting patiently. But Zay's focus was on the path Gabby would soon walk down.
When the music started and Gabby appeared, Zay's heart skipped a beat. She was breathtaking, and for a moment, it felt like it was just the two of them in the world.
As she walked down the aisle, their eyes locked. Gabby could see the love and pride in Zay's expression, and it made her steps a little lighter.
When she reached him, Zay leaned in close, whispering, "Damn, G. You tryin' to kill me? You look so good."
Gabby blushed, whispering back, "You clean up nice too."
The officiant began the ceremony, and everything else faded into the background. When it came time for their vows, Zay went first.
Zay's Vows
"Gabby, from the first day I met you, I knew you was different. You ain't just beautiful—you strong, smart, and got a heart that I don't even deserve sometimes. You made me better, and I promise to always hold you down, no matter what. You my peace, my partner, my everything. I love you, and I'm always gon' love you."
Gabby blinked back tears, her heart so full she could barely breathe.
Gabby's Vows
"Zay, you came into my life when I didn't think I needed anybody. I didn't have family, I didn't have friends, but you saw me when I couldn't even see myself. You believed in me, supported me, and made me feel like I was worth it. I promise to always love you, respect you, and be by your side no matter what. You're my best friend, my safe place, my everything. I love you."
Zay reached out and gently wiped a tear from her cheek, his own eyes glistening.
The Celebration
After the ceremony, the small group moved to a cozy outdoor area for dinner and drinks. Gabby and Zay shared their first dance under the string lights while everyone cheered them on.
As the night went on, Zay pulled Gabby aside, wrapping his arms around her. "So, how you feel, Mrs. Carter?"
Gabby smiled, leaning into him. "Happy. Real happy."
