TO HAVE & TO HOLD-Sequel of Catch Me I'm In Love

Chapter 38 - The Wedding, Finally!

East Hampton, Long Island NY

It was right on the marina, a playful garden wedding at sunset. It was an intimate affair. Only a few close friends who are in New York were there.

Roan was wearing a Monique Lhuiller’s Bliss creation, an A-line strapless silk satin organza gown with re-embroidered lace, the gown features an intricate beading detail. Roan has the look of a radiant bride.

Erik is wearing a one button black Calvin Klein tuxedo with grosgrain shawl lapel and matching grosgrain beason pockets. He is a handsome groom, his eyes lit up- excited.

The violinist is playing Beethoven’s Ode to Joy as Roan marches the aisle towards Erik.

Erik was filled with joy as he waits for her.

“God, she is beautiful.” He exhales and puts his sweaty hands together trying to shake away the nervousness he is feeling.

Roan is teary eyed as she listens to the music and looking lovingly at Erik, she thought, this is it, there’s no turning back now, I can’t believe it!  

She offered her hand to Erik. He kissed it, his hands trembling. Roan gently pressed his hand, her eyes reassuring – telling him they made it, that no one can take each other away.   They faced the priest. His name is Father John and held hands.  

The ceremony proceeded….  

Marriage Vows  

Father John: Since it is your intention to marry, join your right hands and declare your consent. Do you take to be your lawful wedded wife to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live.

Erik: I do.  

Father John: Do you take to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live.    

Roan: I do.  

Exchange of Rings  

Father John: The wedding ring is a symbol of unity, a circle unbroken, without beginning or end. And today give and receive these rings as confirmations of their vows to join their lives, to work at all times to create a life that is whole and unbroken, and to love each other without end. May the Lord bless these rings which you give to each other as the sign of your love and fidelity.

(To Erik), take this ring and place it on finger, and state your pledge to her, repeating after me:  

“With this ring I thee wed.   I offer you my hand, and my heart as I know they will be safe with you.

  All that I am I give to you and all that I have I share with you.”

(To Roan), take this ring and place it on finger, and state your pledge to him, repeating after me:  

“With this ring I thee wed.   I offer you my hand, and my heart as I know they will be safe with you. All that I am I give to you and all that I have I share with you.”    

(Simple Gifts as the background music)  

Father John in closing, he said “As a collection of words, this ceremony would count for little, were it not for the love and commitment you here pledge to one another.   

Your vows may have been spoken in minutes, but your promises to each other will last a lifetime. Those who are joined by this sacred covenant, let no one put asunder.  

As have pledged themselves to meet sorrow and joy as one family before this community of friends, I now pronounce them husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.

 Erik lifted Roan’s chin slowly claimed her lips and they shared a short and sacred kiss.

Everybody clapped as Erik and Roan faced everybody showing their hands together, wearing their rings- they are Officially Married.