Page 45 of Always, For Love
Ariel's gaze met Miles's as she stepped beneath the wooden arch, her heart swelling with love.
"Dear friends and family," began Mabel, who had become ordained just for the occasion, "we are gathered here today to join Ariel and Miles in holy matrimony." A hush fell over the crowd, their collective warmth a comforting presence amidst the frosty landscape.
"Let us begin," Mabel continued, turning to Ariel. "Ariel, please share your vows."
Ariel took a deep breath, her eyes never leaving Miles's. As she spoke, her words spoke of love, promises, and a deep understanding of the journey they had taken to reach this moment. "Miles, you've shown me that love can heal even the deepest wounds. You've brought hope back into my life, and for that, I will be forever grateful. Today, I promise to stand by your side through thick and thin and to cherish every moment we share together. I vow to support you and encourage you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to love you unconditionally for as long as we both shall live."
Tears glistened in Miles' eyes. "Ariel," he began, his voice steady and sure, "you've brought light back into my world when I thought all was lost. You've challenged me to grow, to be a better man, and to embrace life with open arms. Today, I promise to be your rock, your support, and your partner in all things. I vow to honor you, to respect you, and to cherish you for all the days of our lives."
As their vows hung in the air, mingling with the delicate snowflakes that continued to fall, Ariel felt a profound sense of peace wash over her. The path they had taken to reach this point – filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours – had led them to this magical moment in time.
They said their “I Dos” and exchanged rings, gazes never straying from one another.
The snowflakes danced in the air, drifting like gossamer as they settled upon the earth and intertwined with the rich fragrance of pine. In this serene moment, time seemed to pause, as if the universe itself held its breath in anticipation. The world was a canvas, painted in hues of love and new beginnings.
"By the power vested in me," Mabel proclaimed, her voice steady against the gentle rustling of the trees, "I now pronounce you husband and wife."
Ariel's heart swelled with joy, a symphony of emotions surging through her as she turned toward Miles. His eyes, once clouded by the pain of his past, were now filled with hope and a warmth that enveloped her soul. As they locked gazes, Ariel felt the frigid winter air dissipate, replaced by the comforting embrace of their love.
"You may now kiss the bride," Mabel announced, her smile broadening.
Miles reached up and gently cradled Ariel's face in his hands, his calloused fingertips tenderly brushing away a stray tear that had escaped from the corner of her eye. Their lips met, the touch as soft as the falling snow, and yet, it ignited a fire within them that burned brighter than any flame.
Cheers and applause erupted around them, as the guests – their loved ones, their friends, their family – celebrated the union of two souls who had traversed the treacherous path of life and found solace in each other's arms. Their voices joined together, a chorus of happiness that echoed through the snowy landscape and into the hearts of all present.
As they broke away from their kiss, Ariel drank in the sight of Miles' beaming expression – the tender curve of his lips, the creases that formed at the corners of his eyes, and the unbridled love that shone within them. Then, her gaze wandered over the sea of familiar faces that surrounded them.
"Thank you," she whispered under her breath, a quiet prayer of gratitude to those who had stood by her side through the trials and tribulations of life. She knew, with absolute certainty, that the love of these people – this family forged through both blood and circumstance – was the foundation upon which her new life with Miles would be built.
The stillness of the falling snow was punctured by the warm laughter and excited chatter of their loved ones as they all stood and gathered around Ariel and Miles, embracing them in a cocoon of love and unity. The cold air seemed to be held at bay by the heat of their collective joy, leaving only the soft, serene beauty of the snowy seaside landscape as a backdrop.
Hand in hand, Ariel and Miles began the triumphant walk back down the aisle, their hearts full and their smiles radiant, as the snow continued its gentle descent from the heavens. In that moment, they knew they were ready to face whatever life had in store for them, buoyed by the love and support that enveloped them on that magical winter day.
EPILOGUE
Ariel Hawthorne—no, now Clemens—surveyed the long, beautifully decorated tables that filled the outdoor space in the cove of Leeside B and B. The guests chatted animatedly as they savored every morsel of the delicious meal that Darcy and Jill had prepared.
"Everything tastes incredible," whispered Hannah between bites, her eyes sparkling with delight. chuckled as she watched the young girl devour her plate with gusto, knowing that moments like these were what made her career choice worthwhile. Darcy would have appreciated the compliment of a kid—they could be the harshest culinary critics.
The festive atmosphere of the reception celebration was palpable, enhanced by twinkling lights strung across the trees above them. The snow had stopped, but the amount that had stuck on the ground and landscape added an ethereal touch to the scene. It felt as though the whole world was pausing to highlight the love shared between Ariel and Miles. In this moment, their past struggles seemed distant, overshadowed by the promise of a bright future together.
"Ms. Ariel, can I have seconds?" asked Peter shyly, his cheeks flushed from the winter chill. "This food is amazing."
"Of course you can, sweetie," Ariel replied warmly. “And when you’re done, go find Mr. Darcy and tell him how much you liked it.” She watched as Peter eagerly helped himself to another serving, exchanging a knowing glance with her older sister, Charlene.
“I swear, that child grows a foot every time he gets this hungry,” her sister said, laughing. "Cheers to Darcy!"
Laughter rippled through the crowd as they raised their glasses in a toast. Ariel's gaze wandered to Miles, who caught her eye and winked. Despite the lively conversations and laughter around them, an unspoken understanding passed between the couple. This was it—forever.
Ariel went and stood beside Miles, their fingers entwined, and they moved from one group to another. with every step, her heart swelled with gratitude for the people who had gathered here tonight.
"Isn't it magical?" Ariel asked Miles, her eyes twinkling with delight.
"Like a fairy tale," he agreed, his gaze never leaving her.
As they continued to mingle, Ariel caught sight of Darcy and Jill laughing together near the edge of the dance floor.
"Look at them," she said softly to Miles. "They make such a lovely pair."