The Unexpected Journey-A Prince Harry Fan Fic

Chapter 102

Twenty years from this day a retiring driver for The Royal Family would sit down with a publisher to discuss a book—a book he had zero intention of writing. But, when the publisher would ask of his fondest memories, the driver would get a twinkle in his eye and, with a slight smirk, he would talk about this day. The day he was called upon to drive the Duchess to St. Paul's to marry the Duke. He would talk about how sweet she was; bidding him good morning before they set about the long drive. He would talk about how at ease she was; waving to the people who lined the streets, smiling wide, bowing her head in the appropriate places. He would talk about how she and her mother hummed "Going to the Chapel" from the backseat in order to, he guessed, quell high nerves. He would talk about the way she paused, just before stepping from the car, and thanked him; the way she met his eyes, used his name. He would say that even on this day that was so important in her life, this day that surely brought up anxiety, she made it a point to remember his name and to say thank you. For the rest of his time with The Royal Family, he would smile fondly when he was driving her, when anyone spoke of her.

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When Maddie stepped from the car at St. Paul's, she could hear it—the roar from the crowd that had camped overnight across from the Cathedral. She could hear it over the cascade of bells announcing her arrival. She could hear it over the pounding of her heart in her ears. It was loud and boisterous and for her. Her life with Harry so far had been peppered with surreal moments, with larger than life extravagances. But none had ever been quite like this day was starting out.

Her eyes met Ella's, who was standing at the ready, and Maddie nearly started laughing. Both of them knew very well that, had Ella not been invited to this event, she would have most certainly been camped out across the street. Ella bit back her laugh and offered the slightest wink to her best friend before moving into her role.

Maddie took a moment to find her footing, her gown flowing around her and then she turned to the crowd; offering up a wide smile and a wave. The cheering increased. She already felt like she had been waving for hours. She had waved at so many people on the way; people waving flags, people wearing masks of Harry's face, people wearing "Team Maddie" shirts, people who were clearly mourning Harry's marriage and subsequent departure from bachelorhood. She felt like she had been waving for hours and the waving was far from over. She would have never guessed the impact of her wave, of her smile. But there it was, all lined out in front of her. This was her life now. Smiling and waving.

She took a few steps forward as her mother rounded the car and Ella handed her the bouquet before moving to adjust her train. The Bishop was standing on the red carpet at the top of the stairs, waiting for her to join him, to follow him into the Cathedral. It was funny, Maddie thought, how they had spent so much time waiting. Waiting for this day, waiting for the call to go, driving through town at such a slow pace and now that they were finally here, they were moving quite quickly.

As the bells continued to peal, as the crowd continued to cheer, Ella's steady eyes met hers and nodded with a grin. She was ready; dress and veil adjusted. Maddie took her mother's hand and, with one last look to the watchers, she focused her attention forward and they all began up the stairs.

There were moments; moments that people would remember forever. Of course this day would be chronicled like none other before in her life; videos and photographs in abundance. Maddie would forever be able to access every potential angle of the moment she stepped into St. Paul's cathedral that morning; full of people rising to their feet and turning to her.

Deep breath in, let it out slowly.

Maddie's smile never drifted from her face, from her eyes—not because they had rehearsed it, not because she was stepping into this new smile and wave role. That smile was in place because she knew, with every step, exactly what was waiting for her at the end.

Her very own pot of gold.

Her eyes twinkled with amusement as her lips absorbed the laughter. Stilling in the entryway, Ms. Ellis worked quickly behind her, adjusting her train, her veil, and stepping from the moment. The Bishop spoke softly to her; reassuring words, comforting words, congratulations. But Maddie remembered very little of it. Her fingers grasped Hannah's with a reassuring squeeze; hoping her mother was ready for this, praying she was going to be okay. Ella fell into place behind her, the Bishop gave his last nod to Maddie and, to signal their procession, he turned towards the Cathedral.

And then it began. The music played out; a triumphant announcement. Her mother's fingers stroked hers.

Deep breath. Smile. Head high.

Step forward.

In the future she would slowly forget the details; the music, the flowers, the vast majority of the guests. But she would always remember the stunned happiness she felt standing in that massive opulence on the precipice of her married life with Harry. She would always remember how it felt to look out over the sea of smiles, past the plethora of flowers, and know that he was there, in that building; waiting for her.

Harry. With his bright red hair; tamed for this day. Harry with his soft, blue eyes; looking for hers, offering her all of his strength, all of his certainty, all of his grace as she made her way to him. Harry. With his smile; full of assurance and love and...Happiness.

She knew there was music; there must have been music. They had spent hours upon hours listening to an abundance of song options—narrowing it down to this one that would play in this exact moment. She knew there were guests; there must have been guests. She had seen the list of at least a thousand, had felt weak in the knees when she looked at it. And she knew her mother was there with her; she must have been there with her. Because it had been she who had flown to London, she who had climbed into the Rolls Royce with her, she who had held her hand, leading her to the doors of the church, it had been she who had brought her right to this spot; to this moment.

And though the music played and the guests stood, smiled and nodded and her mother held her steady as her knees grew shaky, it was truly Harry who moved her down that aisle. With his promise of what was to come. His promise to love her; always. To be her friend; always. To be there; always.

With a wide smile and a feeling of euphoria, Maddie took a few moments to look around, to take it all in, before her eyes settled on his location and they walked. Slow and steady, they passed throngs of people she didn't know; local VIPs, representatives of various organizations and charities. Smiling wide, they passed foreign dignitaries; The Crown Princess of Denmark, The President of the United States. They passed celebrities; Elton John, David Beckham. Her breath grew wavy then, her mind just the tiniest bit jolted by the knowledge of all of the power and prestige that sat along that aisle.

And then she saw them; people she knew. Kiki. Collins. Bishop. And she had to look away; it was much too early to fall apart.

In all honesty, the tears didn't come until the moment she saw Autumn; lovely, sweet, Autumn Philips. She was standing tall in a beautiful teal dress and smiling directly at Maddie. And when their eyes met, realization sank into Maddie. They were walking by family now. Filling with tears, her eyes moved away from them; knowing that their families would make her cry. So instead she looked forward.

To him.

And her heart warmed; flushing heat through her entire body. Her eyes swept over him, watching as Will turned first; humor in his eyes at the switch in position. She watched him nudge his brother ever so slightly but it wasn't needed. He was already turning around. And then he saw her.

Maddie decided right then and there that this was the reason that brides were kept from grooms the night before a wedding. This, right here. This anticipatory feeling, this look that crossed Harry's face when finally, finally, she was there. With a shuddery breath in, his smile widened, his eyes danced and Maddie swore she saw him take the smallest fraction of a step, as if he were coming to get her. But he stopped. He waited.

Resisting all urges to skip the rest of the way down the aisle, Maddie kept her pace and silently thanked Joan for making her walk this aisle a dozen times and her mother for her gift of patience. It was all that was keeping her from throwing herself into his arms and kissing him; long before it was officially acceptable to do so. She knew she should be watching her pace, she should be smiling at Charles and Camilla and The Queen, but she simply could not move her eyes from his. It was only when she made it to the front of the church, when she and her mother took those last few stairs, that she realized she had made it to the altar; this was it. It was time.

The music continued to play as she took her place at his side. He was all smiles as he nodded to her mother, all joy as he turned to her, eyes locking into hers.

"It's about time you got here..." Harry whispered; a twinkle in his eye. "I've been waiting so long."

"Hmm..." Maddie's cheeks pulled into a wide grin, mindful of the watching eyes, the watching world. Trying to keep this moment between just them, she spoke low. "If you remember, it takes nearly four minutes to walk this aisle."

"I wasn't talking about just today..." His voice caught in his throat, his hands flexed—aching to reach out to her.

"Henry..." She warned under her breath; her eyes growing fuzzy.

"Thirty years..." He breathed; deep breath in, slowly out.

"Shhh..." She begged, pleaded with him through her smile to stop, to spare her the tears that were threatening to spill.

And then, as if sent from the God she could feel all around her, the Bishop stepped forward and gave a nod to Hannah. Maddie turned to face her and Ella who came to take her bouquet. Hoping to ground herself, hoping to anchor her heart, Maddie looked to her best friend and, though Ella smiled wide, though she silently offered her all of her strength, the tears in her eyes only pushed Maddie closer to the edge.

"Hey..." Hannah breathed; calling her daughter's attention in the softest way possible. "You're okay..." She smiled, her hands reaching to move the veil up and over Maddie's head. As she straightened the soft fabric, she ran her hands over her arms, she met her eyes and she smiled; that comforting, assured smile that only her mother held. Maddie nodded, blinked, and with a deep, settling breath, she turned forward.

"You look beautiful," his voice was warm next to her; his finger on his left hand rising to stroke the back of her right hand; one swift swipe of his skin that sent shivers through hers.

"So do you..." She risked a glance, risked the tears, and smiled up at him.

And then, in effort to pull her from the tears, to pull her into the revelry with him, his lips pulled up into the slightest of smirks and he winked; knowing fully well it would be talked about the next day. He didn't care. This was his day; his and Maddie's. And it worked. Maddie's lips pressed together, muffling the giggle; stopping the laughter. The Bishop stepped forward and gave them a nod. It was starting. Seriousness washed over them both, pulling them into the gravity of the day.

"Dearly beloved," the music had faded and the Bishop's voice boomed throughout. "We are gathered here in the sight of God and in the face of this congregation, to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted of God himself, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Christ and his Church; which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence, ad first miracle that he wrought, in Cana of Galilee, and is commended in Holy Writ to be honorable among all men; and therefore is not by any to be enterprised, nor taken in hand, unadvisedly, lightly or wantonly; but reverently, discreetly, soberly, and in the fear of God, duly considering the causes for which matrimony was ordained."

Maddie could sense Harry next to her, could feel his impatience as he rocked ever so slightly on his feet. To be fair, she was impatient too. Though she understood the protocol of it all, the propriety, the traditions, she desperately wanted to touch him; to hold his hand, to feel connected. As the Bishop finished speaking and stepped away and the Archbishop of Canterbury stepped forward, Maddie knew what that signified. His job was to marry them, to ensure that they left the Cathedral as Husband and Wife. He nodded a smile to the two of them and then, in a loud, commanding voice,

"I require and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment why ye may not be lawfully joined together in matrimony, ye do now confess it. For be ye well assured, that so many as are coupled together otherwise than God's word doth allow are not joined together by God; neither is their matrimony lawful."

A moment of silence followed; allowed for a breath, a pause, before the tall, regal man turned first to Harry, "Henry Charles Albert David, wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded wife, to live together according to God's law in the holy estate of matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?"

"I will." It wasn't a whisper. It was loud and clear and declarant. A promise. An answer he had been waiting his whole life to give.

As the Archbishop turned to face Maddie, the roar of the crowd outside drifted through the congregation, bringing a slight laughter to the moment, a wide smile to Harry's face and a warmth to Maddie's heart. It truly was the only reminder that there were others watching.

"Madeline Jae, wilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband, to live together according to God's law in the holy estate of matrimony? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honour and keep him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?"

Maddie's eyes shifted to meet Harry's eyes, "I will." The crowd roared again.

"Who giveth this woman to be married to this man?" As Hannah held Maddie's right hand, giving it over to the Archbishop, the two women shared one last moment of familial love, a look that spoke multitudes of emotions. But before she could be overtaken by feelings, Maddie was being handed over to Harry.

With the softest of fingers, the most gentle of touch he took her right hand in his and they finally, finally, faced each other. Her eyes settled a hazy focus on him; realizing there were so many more people there than just the two of them, but refusing to acknowledge it. It had taken them much too long to get to this point where they were together; their focus on each other, their hands clasped between them. She wanted to keep this flash of time only for her.

But, knowing that they needed the Archbishop to make it official, Maddie's subconscious let him into her bubble. He nodded to Harry and directed his vows.

"I, Henry Charles Albert David..." The corners of Harry's mouth tugged up just slightly, just enough, remembering Maddie's recitation. Sucking in his breath, he repeated.

"I, Henry Charles Albert David..."

"Take thee, Madeline Jae..."

"Take thee...Madeline Jae..." Maddie watched his Adams' Apple bob and her throat tightened.

"To my wedded wife..." The Archbishop encouraged.

"To my wedded wife."

And it hit her. The wave of emotion she had hoped they had rehearsed out, the tide of feelings that washed over her. They had spent hours in this Cathedral; walking and standing and kneeling but not once, not one single time, had they repeated these vows.

"To have and to hold from this day forward."

Maddie blinked her eyes, praying she wouldn't break down, praying she wouldn't cry.

"To have and to hold from this day forward..." Harry, catching her struggle, offered all he could in that moment; a stroke from his thumb, warm, welcoming eyes.

"For better, for worse."

"For better, for worse." He was beaming. And she was on the brink of blubbering. She could see the headlines now.

"For richer, for poorer..."

"For richer, for poorer..." Blubbering Bride Ruins Royal Wedding.

"In sickness and in health..."

"In sickness and in health..." Maddie looked up to him then, wishing she could share her headline with him, share a laugh with him and instead, her mind was silenced.

"To love and to cherish..."

Harry was crying.

"To love and to cherish..." His voice wavered. It wasn't full on crying but there were tears and he was sniffing and his hand was holding hers as though it were the only thing he had in the world.

"Till death us do part."

And she was missing it all trying to keep the tears from her own eyes.

"Till death us do part." Harry was solemn, stoic; he wasn't playing, he wasn't laughing. He was pledging his entire life to her.

"According to God's holy law..."

Maddie's fingers moved in his; propriety be damned, she was holding onto him in this moment—this moment when he became her husband. Her hand wrapped around his and she let the tears fill her eyes.

"According to God's holy law."

Harry smiled wide; lighting up the entire room.

"And thereto I give thee my troth..."

His eyes flashed wicked; he knew what that word meant.

"And thereto I give thee my troth."

Maddie's hands shook as they let go and Harry's fingers stroked hers as they reclaimed each other. His right hand resting in hers as the crowds roared outside. Her lips trembled as she smiled at him and his shoulders shuddered as he took a breath. The Archbishop smiled encouragingly and nodded to Maddie.

"I, Madeline Jae..." And then, with a voice that spoke of absolute certainty, of a single, clear mission, more sure than anyone in the entire world, Maddie repeated her vows; line for line, word for word—never once breaking eye contact with Harry.

"I, Madeline Jae."

"Take thee, Henry Charles Albert David..."

Her lips formed love around all four of his names. His tongue tipped out of his mouth, pulling his bottom lip between his teeth. Nerves. Nerves and excitement.

"To my wedded husband." My husband, she thought. Mine.

"To have and to hold from this day forward..." Her smile stretched.

"For better, for worse..." It was a cadence; marching her to the end of this long journey.

"For richer, for poorer..." Her chest lightened.

"In sickness and in health..." Her shoulders felt weightless.

"To love and to cherish..." Her heart swelled.

"Till death us do part." She was floating.

"According to God's holy law..." So this was what heaven felt like.

"And thereto I give thee my troth."

She was his wife. His wife. His.

As the crowds cheered from outside the Cathedral, William handed the rings he had been carrying to the Archbishop, who held his hand over them as they rested in his Bible. "Bless, O Lord, these rings, and grant that they who give them and they who shall wear them may remain faithful to each other, and abide in thy peace and favour, and live together in love until their lives' end. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

Harry was first; first to declare his intent, first to say his vows and now, first to slip the ring onto her finger. With great ease and eyes full of pride, Harry repeated the words from the Archbishop, "With this ring I thee wed; with my body I thee honour; and all my worldly goods with thee I share." His hands held hers in both of his, his thumbs stroking the back of her hand tenderly. "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

And then, as realization settled over Maddie, as a wave of peace and contentment calmed her beating heart, she took his hand, his ring, and repeated the same. It was getting easier and easier; the recitation, the words, the breathing. Maddie's eyes twinkled, her smile carefree. Harry held tight to her hand as they turned towards the Archbishop, letting go only as they moved to their knees; bowing their heads.

"Let us pray," the Archbishop called out. "O Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, giver of all spiritual grace, the author of everlasting life; send thy blessing upon these thy servants, this man and this woman, whom we bless in thy name; that, living faithfully together, they may surely perform and keep the vow and covenant betwixt them made, whereof these rings given and received are a token and pledge; and may ever remain in perfect love and peace together, and live according to thy laws; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

Their hands came together one last time; wrapped in the cloth of the Archbishop as he ordered, "Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder." Their hands were released and Maddie hated the way it ached to let him go. It seemed so unfair. This moment in time when they were pledging so much to the other, the very least they should be allowed was to hold on to the one thing that was pulling them through this.

Alas, the Archbishop paid no mind to the musings in Maddie's head; instead addressing the congregation as she and Harry remained on their knees. "Forasmuch as Henry and Madeline have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth either to other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving of rings, and by joining of hands; I pronounce that they be man and wife together, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

And the roar that came from outside could not compare to the roar that came from within. Maddie swallowed the lump in her throat and fought to control her urge to hug Harry tightly to her. The Archbishop continued with his blessing,

"God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Ghost, bless, preserve, and keep you; the Lord mercifully with his favour look upon you; and so fill you with all spiritual benediction and grace, that ye may so live together in this life, that in the world to come ye may have life everlasting." Maddie blinked back tears. "Amen."

The music sounded out. The singing began. And, before Maddie could move to her feet, Harry was there; offering a steady hand. With a wide grin and matching teary eyes, she let her fingers slip into his and rose to his side. William and Hannah left them at the altar then and Harry, his hand wrapped snug and secure around hers, led the way to their chairs for the remainder of the service.

From that moment on, Harry kept her hand in his. He snuck glances; offered his knee-weakening grin, and kept her with him; physically and emotionally. Though he knew there would be talk; that comparisons would be discussed, judgments made. But he didn't care. He had waited thirty years for this moment; he a husband, she a wife. Besides, what were they going to do? Un-marry them? They couldn't. The Archbishop had just called upon God to bless them. Take away his title?

They could have it.

Cause he had her. It was as simple as that.

This day was many, many things. It was a beginning. It was a conclusion. It was momentous. It was effortless. It was flawless in execution and overrun with love and excitement, friendship and passion, festivity and joy. It was a day they had imagined, a day they had planned for, a day they thought would never actually arrive.

It was the day Harry had become her husband. It was the day Maddie had become his wife. It was an occasion to be marked, an occasion to be celebrated, an occasion to be revered. The enormity of it escaped all of his words. The simplicity of it escaped all of her sentiments.

They remained together; through the Hymn, The Anthem, The Address and, when called to the High Altar, Harry linked her hand through his arm and, resting his hand on top of hers, they followed on.

Falling to their knees one more time, they snuck a private glance, an isolated smile. It was beautiful. Maddie couldn't quite contain the way her heart warmed as the Motet was delivered, as they moved into a long, liturgical list of prayers. She had never been incredibly religious, not nearly as devout as some but in this moment, kneeling before God, next to Harry, it was a spiritual experience unlike any other. With every prayer, every blessing that was bestowed upon her and her new husband, Maddie felt wave after wave of love and devotion and significance and finally...

"Let us pray." Heads bowed. "O Almighty Lord, and everlasting God, vouchsafe, we beseech thee, to direct, sanctify, and govern both our hearts and bodies, in the ways of thy laws, and in the works of thy commandments; that through thy most mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be preserved in body and soul; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen." Maddie sucked in a breath; this was it. "The blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you and remain with you always."

The fanfare sounded and, taking Harry's extended hand, Maddie rose to her feet; singing the National Anthem to her new Queen, her new Grandmother. And as the congregation sat, as the choir sang, the newlyweds, followed by their families and Ella, made their way out of public view for the first time since this had all began. The very second they disappeared, Harry broke and pulled her hand into both of his, turning to her; eyes wide and bright.

"Madeline..." One hand moved to her face, his fingers daring to stroke her cheek. "Baby you look amazing."

"Thank you," she whispered, still unsure of the formality this moment required. Her hand lifted to his, pressing it closer to her cheek as she breathed a little easier. "You clean up well yourself, Captain."

"How are you? Are you holding up?" He looked her over, his hand moving down the base of her neck.

"I'm fine," she grinned, blinking back tears for the umpteenth time that day. "I'm...wow...Harry. I'm your wife."

"Yeah..." He breathed. His head bobbed into a nod as it hit him again; not for the first time, not for the last. "You most definitely are that."

"Are you okay?" She smiled up at him sweetly.

"I want to kiss you..." He wasn't being mischievous, he wasn't trying for naughty or wicked. He genuinely wanted to kiss his wife; very, very much. Swallowing back the lump in his throat, he met her eyes. "Can I kiss you?"

"No..." Though nothing inside of her stood behind her words; her head shaking weakly. "I think you'll get me into trouble with God...and The Queen. And Ella." His lips pulled into a smile as he sighed his defeat.

"Probably best not to tangle with any of those."

"Probably," Maddie agreed.

And then they were no longer alone. Ella was the first one through the door, her eyes puffy as she held onto Maddie's bouquet. Harry turned a smile to her, opening his mouth to say hello, but she held up her hand.

"You two..." She shook her head, taking a deep breath. "You know you're taking down weak willed women all over the world right now?"

"Sorry," Harry held up his hand that wasn't holding onto Maddie.

"No you're not," she eyed him, her smile moving back into place.

"No I'm not." He watched as Ella moved around Maddie, checking her makeup, tending to her dress. His family stepped in then, with Hannah mixed among them. Unable to resist, his grin turned slightly wicked. "Ella, you've met my brother Will, no?"

"Sorry?" Ella's eyes went wide just as the very same brother stepped up to the group.

"Yes of course," Will smiled; poised and charming as he held his hand out to her. "Ella. We met in Bendal. And a few times since then, I believe. You look lovely today."

"Thank you," she flushed slightly as she shook his hand, her eyes darting to Harry who winked like the naughty little boy she knew he really was. The group moved further into the space; parents hugging Maddie and Harry and, before too long, the Archbishop brought them all back to point, back to focus.

Leading the way to the strong, ornate table, Harry and Maddie signed a set of documents; license, Cathedral Registry, Royal Registry. It felt like mere moments before the family was being sent back into the Cathedral; save for William and Ella. As members of the clergy filed past them, only the four remained. Maddie moved her engagement ring back to the correct hand, resting it against the new ring Harry had placed there just that day. She tucked her hand into the crook of his arm; his hand instantly covering it with warmth and assurance. Ella handed her bouquet back to her and fell into place behind them, next to Harry's brother.

"Hey Maddie?" Harry spoke in soft tones; his fingers patting against hers.

"Harry?" She whispered back.

"I love you for this," he turned to look at her then. "For many, many reasons, but for this specifically."

"This?" She lifted her eyebrows, tears racing back.

"Showing up today." He chuckled. "We're not even close to done and...thank you," he squeezed her hand under his. "Thank you for today."

"Don't mention it," her voice wavered ever so slightly as she sniffed and shrugged; hoping to elevate the moment. "Besides...I had nothing better to do."

"No?" He grinned.

"No." She nudged him with her arm. And then, as if on cue, the fanfare sounded out. "Not even close."

Harry took a deep, cleansing breath, and, hand over hers, they took a step forward; towards the congregation, towards the rest of their day, the remainder of their lives. Ms. Schuler had told Maddie at least a hundred times 'Remember to smile.' It was her wedding day and nobody liked to see a sullen bride. And though there were moments when her nerves had threatened the best of her, there were times when the enormity of it all came close to too much, Maddie never once had to remind herself to smile.

It was with that same, complete-happiness smile that reached her eyes, that she walked back into the sanctuary on Harry's arm. It was that same smile she turned to the congregation, now on their feet to greet the newlyweds. It was the same smile she held as she dipped to curtsy before The Queen while Harry bowed his head. It was the same smile that found her cousins; beaming and wiping at their eyes. The very same smile she carried with her down that four minute walk towards the doors to the Cathedral.

With every step towards the outside, Harry had become more and more lively, more giddy; smiling and laughing and holding her hand to him as they walked. Stepping out into light of day was jarring in the most wonderful of ways. They were greeted by the grand cascade of The Bells of St. Paul's. They were welcomed by thousands of cheering fans, most of whom were smiling just as wide as the bride and groom.

They paused for a moment; allowing for photos and for Harry to pull on his gloves, situate his hat. And then, taking great care to support his new wife, Harry led the way down the carpeted stairs to the awaiting carriage. A few salutes, well wishes, and Harry was up and holding out a hand to her, ready to pull her up to him, ready to sit next to her in the parade that was his life. With her bouquet resting on the seat across from them, Maddie sat down and let out her breath, the very last bit of tension slipping away from her as Harry settled in his spot. His hand found hers, pulling it into his. With a smile and a wave to their collective parents, the horses lurched forward and they were off.

"I'm dying to kiss you..." His hand was tight around hers as he spoke to her across the carriage. They had barely pulled away from the church, barely made it onto the parade route and he was already pushing. His eyes carried the same wicked twist as his lips. "Is there any way that can happen?"

"Absolutely not," Maddie breathed; though everything in her body was screaming for him to do just that. Turning her face from his, her eyes from his, she waved to the crowds as they passed. This was the part she hadn't been prepared for; the delay in gratification—all of the formalities that had to be met before she could celebrate her husband.

"Fine." He sighed heavily; smile never wavering. "I'll behave," Harry squeezed her hand in his before bringing it to his lips. Maddie's face turned to his as the on-lookers clapped and cheered at this display of affection. "From here on out," he winked. "I'll behave."

"You're going to be in so much trouble," she spoke between teeth, smile masking the words.

"Totally worth it," he kept hold of her hand in his and turned to wave to the crowds. Not one ounce of him regretted taking just a tiny bit for himself.

The journey to Buckingham Palace was invigorating. Though Maddie had seen the people lining the streets on her way to the Cathedral, she had been more nervous, more focused. And now, with Harry next to her, she could feel their excitement compound her own. And Harry was right there with her the whole way. They smiled, they waved, they shared laughs and sidelong glances and when Harry dropped her hand to salute, he was quick to sweep it back up into his.

Finally, when they came to a stop at Buckingham, Maddie felt completely at ease; relaxed and overjoyed as Harry stepped from the carriage and reached back to help her out. With big smiles to the awaiting photographers, they stepped, hand in hand, into the palace and out of view.

They were going upstairs to be with the family for just a brief glimpse of time before they went to the balcony. Fifteen minutes to hug their parents, to have a much deserved drink before they faced the public who was coming to the Palace in droves. Staff came out to greet them; to take Harry's hat and gloves, to take Maddie's bouquet. As the rest of the wedding party and their families began to arrive, Harry took Maddie's hand and nodded to the side.

"We're going to take the elevator," Harry informed the staff that was waiting for him, leading her in that direction.

"The elevator?" Maddie giggled slightly but followed anyway. He had done this before; this was her first time. Stepping in next to him, she smiled as the doors closed before her.

"God you're beautiful," his voice was low, rough, as he turned to her.

"Oh I see what's happening..." She felt her stomach stir as he stepped towards her. "Are you trying to rattle me?" She met his eyes; narrowed and playful. "Do you keep saying these things because you want me to push you up against the nearest wall and..."

"Are you going to push me up against the nearest wall? Cause I am completely okay with..."

"You know your family is just outside that door and..."

"I can't wait to kiss you." He cut her off; his head shaking as his hands moved to her neck, cupping her gently; tipping her face to his. "Truly. I've waited long enough. I think I've lasted longer than anybody would have guessed. But I can't wait any longer."

"Such a big talker," Maddie grinned as the elevator began to move. "So many words from you with, what I'm guessing will be, a small delivery."

"Ohhh..." Harry chuckled; a deep rumble that resonated in his chest. "Dangerous move Doctor."

"I'm not afraid of you," she took a deep breath, her fingers curling around his wrists as he moved closer. "And I don't know if you've heard..." Her eyes flickered in anticipation. "But it's Duchess now."

Harry nodded; a heavy, deep nod as though he were letting that wash over him once more. With a grin, he dipped his head. "I've heard..." He muttered against her lips and then, as his lips slid against hers, she closed her eyes and sighed into him. With a moan, he stepped closer; his hands still on her neck, angling her up to him. Her lips parted under his, welcoming him with enthusiasm.

The fight was futile. He had won. She had surrendered; happily. They had been pronounced Husband and Wife. He was kissing his bride. He only had very few precious seconds before he was going to have to share her with the world again; he refused to be cheated of this moment. This silent, intimate, private moment where he kissed his wife.

"Harry..." She gasped as the elevator slowed to a stop. With great effort, she pulled her lips from his; her heart aching as she moved.

"Mmm..." He smiled, his mouth seeking hers again; oblivious for the moment of his surroundings.

"We have to..." Her fingers fell to his chest, stilling him in his quest. She could feel his heart pounding under her hand, under all of that cloth; she could feel his heartbeat.

"I know..." He nodded; taking a breath to calm himself.

"Your family and..." She began her explanation.

"I know," his eyes lifted to hers; full of adoration. With one more kiss to her mouth, he sighed and reached for her hand with a groan. "This is going to be a very long afternoon."

"Yes." She smiled; slipping back into work mode.

"Drinks with the family," Harry's hand smoothed over the front of his uniform. "Balcony. Brunch..."

"Yes," Maddie squeezed his hand.

"You okay?" He looked her over, wanting to be sure.

"Yes," she turned her eyes to his. "A little breathless, but I'm just fine."

"I'll take it," he grinned, proud, as the doors opened before them.

When they stepped into the room, the family was assembled; Charles and Camilla, William and a very pregnant Kate, Hannah, Ella, The Queen and Prince Phillip. As they breeched the doorway, Charles led a light round of applause and Maddie felt her cheeks flush. How funny, she thought, that the smaller group brought about more nerves than the masses of people from this morning.

But there was no time for her to spiral in any sort of fashion. As bottles of champagne were popped and poured, rounds of hugs began.

"Your Majesty," Maddie curtsied as The Queen moved to hug her, pressing a kiss to her cheek with a smile.

"That tiara looks magnificent on you, dear," her eyes grew a bit nostalgic as she looked the bride over. "My mother would have been very proud."

"Thank you," Maddie whispered, a sob in her throat. "Thank you very much. It was...quite the honor to wear it."

"Madeline..." Charles rich voice called out. "Darling. Welcome to the family." He hugged her tight; pressing a kiss to her cheek.

"Thank you, sir," Maddie hugged him back; feeling at home in his warm arms.

"The wedding was beautiful," Camilla took her turn.

"Thank you," Maddie agreed wholeheartedly. And then Hannah stepped forward. Maddie blinked back the tears as she hugged her mother tight and smiled with great joy when Hannah moved to hug Harry.

"Congratulations sister," William pressed a kiss to her cheek and then offered a wink. "And best of luck to you."

"Thank you," Maddie chuckled softly. "And how are you doing little mother?" She turned her attention to Kate.

"Really well, thank you," Kate smiled; her hand lingering over her belly. "I think he slept through most of the ceremony, so that's nice."

"Ella darling," Harry smiled at Maddie's best friend as he hugged her close. "Did we make you proud?"

"Above and beyond my expectations," she was still a bit teary as she lowered her voice. "Also...that particular shade of lip gloss looks wonderful on you...Your Royal Highness."

"Of course," Harry nodded, swiping at his upper lip as Ella moved to Maddie's open arms. "You let me walk out here with your lip gloss on my face?" His eyes flashed jokingly to Maddie.

"I'm sorry my darling," she blushed slightly, her eyes sweeping over him for any other hints of their private indiscretion. "You left me witless; what can I say?"

And, as Ms. Schuler stepped into the room with a nod to the Butler, indicating it was time to step out to the balcony, Harry met her eyes, ready with a snappy comeback, but he saw the waver in hers and he silenced himself.

"Harry..." Her voice had the slightest shake to it.

"I got you," he nodded; pulling her hand into both of his. "Don't worry. I've got you." The family stepped to the side; parting as Moses had the sea. And Harry, the steadier of the two at the moment, held her hand in his and, together, they stepped through the doors onto the balcony.

And the world below them went wild.

"Wow..." She couldn't help the word that bubbled up from deep inside, pushing through her lips in a gasp. It was indescribable; unimaginable. She had never, ever, in her entire life been part of something so...magnificent. There were people as far as she could see; cheering and clapping and waving the Union Jack.

He watched as she took it in, watched as her mind processed it all and, when he saw her lips let out that last breath of anxiety and pull up in a smile, when he saw her hand lift in the air and offer a wave to the adoring crowd below, he relaxed and let his heart out of the protected gate. He turned to face the crowd with her, tossing up his own wave and beaming grin. The family filed out behind them; taking their spots around them as they waved to the people.

And then because he didn't want to wait for the chanting to start, didn't want to wait for that awkward moment where they hemmed and hawed and went for it—because he didn't want to wait any longer.

"Madeline..." In truth, he could have said any word at all but when he said it in that voice, she would always turn to him. And she did. She turned. Her eyes finding his and she knew. Her hand stretched out for his, pulling it up from his side and she smiled; bright and cheery and ready.

And he wasn't facing the crowd. He was facing her. He was attending only to her. He lifted their join hands, pressing a kiss to her hand; a reverent, eyes closed, lips lingering kiss. And then in the beat of a blink his face lifted from her hand and he leaned into her. She felt his free hand move to her cheek, tilting her face to his and she closed her eyes.

This moment was hers. She didn't care that there were thousands of people watching from the street, thousands more watching from TV. She didn't care that her mother stood to her right or that the Queen of England stood to his left.

In truth it lasted longer than either of them had ever planned, longer than even Harry would have pushed. But he took that half a step closer and she tilted her head that few degrees more and their lips held on to each other, grasping for fractions of seconds.

Maddie was the first to step back, a flush in her cheeks. Her eyes met his with half warning, half promise and he smiled wide; registering the enormous roar from the crowds below. He dropped another kiss to her lips, one to her forehead and, with a wink from his wife, turned back to the crowds; her hand held tightly in his.

Only a few more minutes and they could retire inside. Only a few more minutes and they could go to their reception and begin the celebrations. Only a few more minutes before the duty of his role, of her new role, could loosen just a bit. There would be more cheering. There would be a flyover and there would be one more kiss for the books. And then there would be an entire day of festivities. But for now, Harry was content to watch with pride as she accepted her new role in his world and as his world accepted her.

(To Be Continued)