Page 106 of Hard To Love


Font Size:  

“Do you love Nick?” she asked.

I nodded. “Yes.”

She crouched in front of me. “Do you want to spend the rest of your life with him?”

“Yes.” I smiled.

“Are you happy?” Her hand slipped in mine as she helped me up.

“Yes.” My eyes started to well.

“Then get dressed and marry your prince, sweetheart, because he is out there and he is waiting to hear you say those words.” The smile on my face was one of so much joy. My heart started to race and tears began to flow.

“It just seems so unreal.” I sobbed but laughed at the same time.

“You and Nick went through a lot to get where you are now.”

“I know.” I hugged my mother so tightly that she coughed. “I can’t breathe, darling.” She laughed, letting me go.

“Did you memorize your vows?” Cassie asked, pointing to her temple with a smile.

“I did.” I sighed. I wanted to surprise Nick with my own vows.

“You look great, by the way,” I said, hugging Cassie. She was in her grape-coloured A-line princess one-shoulder, knee-Length chiffon bridesmaid Dress.

“Well, you’re the belle of the ball, so let’s get you in that gorgeous dress of yours,” she said, walking over to the cabinet.

She gently removed my pure-white mermaid-style strapless dress with the ruffled top, chapel train and satin embroidered beadwork under the bust.

“Ready?” she asked once I was in my dress. Sucking in a deep breath, let it out slowly then nodded. Cassie nodded, and left the room. My mother stood by the door, waiting for her cue. My mother was walking me down the aisle in place of my father.

Once the music began, so did the butterflies in my stomach.

“That’s our cue.” She smiled and held out her hand.

As I walked down the aisle, the nerves didn’t calm one bit. Everyone smiled and snapped pictures as we walked past them. I finally got a clear view of Nick as we hit the middle of the aisle and my heart pounded in my chest. He looked dashing in his three- piece jet-black suit with satin lapels and white ascot. My mother hugged me, and then stepped away. Nick stepped forward, taking my hand, and I felt his hand shaking nervously, which made me feel better that I wasn’t the only one who was nervous.

The officiant started the ceremony, lasting a little less than twenty minutes until we reached the most important part of the ceremony. “And so here you are today to say your marriage vows to each another. Mr. Porter, please go first. The ring please,” the officiant said, and Mason handed the ring to Nick. Nick reached out to take my hand in his. “Lauren, when I look in your eyes, I know I have found my home. In your heart, I have a love I never imagined existed. In your soul, I have found my mate. With you, I am whole. You make me laugh. You let me cry. You are my breath, my every heartbeat. I couldn’t imagine a single day without you. I am yours forever and always.” He slid the ring on my finger, and my body shook tremendously. Then he added, “Miss Miller, I give you this ring as a daily reminder of my love for you.”

Sniffles from the crowd behind us could be heard. I couldn’t take my eyes off him, and the longer I stared, the more the urge to burst into tears became greater.

“Miss Miller,” the officiant said, “the ring, please.” I turned to face Cassie and took the ring in my palm. I took Nick’s hand in mine, and as I spoke, my voice shook. “From the first moment we met and I looked into your eyes, I knew you were my inspiration and my soul’s fire. You taught me how to love, laugh and cry. Every day that we spend together, you fill me with joy. I’m in awe of you and blessed that you chose me. I am yours forever and always.” I slid the ring on his finger, never taking my eyes off him. Nick’s eyes began to water. “Mr. Porter, I give you this ring as a daily reminder of my love for you.” We both stood there, staring at each other. He mouthed “I love you,” and I reciprocated, smiling.

“So now, by the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife and invite you to kiss one another.” At this point I practically jumped in his arms, crushing his mouth with mine. We both whispered words of love before turning to face our family and friends. “Please put your hands together . . . Congratulations to the newlyweds!” Everyone stood, clapping as we walked back down the aisle.

As soon as we were in the limo, I turned to Nick and planted a big kiss on his lips. Both of us were unable to stop smiling. Nick wrapped his arms around me, keeping me close.

“Mrs. Porter.” He hugged me, kissing my forehead.

“Has a nice ring to it,” I giggled. “No pun intended.”

“I bet,” he said and kissed me.

“You still haven’t told me where we are going on our honeymoon,” I said.

“I told you it was a surprise, so you will have to wait and see,” he replied.

“I love you, Nick.”

Source: www.allfreenovel.com