"No, you can't see the groom until you two meet at the alter," Raven giggled at Charles.
"Aww, please, just for a moment! I'm sure he's nervous just like me."
"Nope, sorry, big brother," she pushed him away from the door with her fingers. "Not until the ceremony."
"Fine," Charles said, faking a pout. He walked away, back to the front of the synagogue. Erik had asked to hold it at the town's new temple, and of course, Charles agreed. It was a gorgeous stone building, with a sprawling lawn and a beautiful dark wood interior. What wasn't to love?
He bit his lip nervously and paced outside the main sanctuary. He heard a door open and a wizened man with a long curly beard stepped out, holding in his hand a dark yamaka. He recognised him as Erik's childhood rabbi, Avram Goldberg, who'd flown in all the way from Germany to officiate the wedding.
"My son to be, kindly wear this sacred covering," he extended his hand to give the covering to Charles.
"Of course, Rabbi Goldberg," he smiled as he took the kippa.
"May I put it on you, dear child?"
"Oh yes, please," Charles said, bending down to allow the rabbi to pin it to his head. "Thank you, rabbi."
"Certainly," he nodded, patting Charles on the shoulder before disappearing back inside. He left him grinning, so touched by the kindness.
"Go Charles, come on!" Raven pulled him out the door into the temple. Erik stood at the very end of the aisle, smiling like a fool, tears streaming down his face as he walked closer.
Charles transmitted, "I love you, handsome" as he mounted the alter and took his partner's hands. Erik rolled his eyes and stuck out his tongue playfully.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are here to celebrate the union between our dear Erik Lehnsherr and his partner of 5 years, Charles Francis Xavier..."
"Erik, do you take this man to be your husband?"
"I most certainly do, Rabbi!"
"And Charles, do you take Erik to be your husband?"
"Absolutely," Charles nodded through his tear-blurred vision. He never thought he'd ever be able to get married, let alone to the most perfect man in the universe. But some dreams do come true after all. Thank God, whichever version anyone wanted.
"My sons, you may kiss the groom," Rabbi Goldberg said cheerfully, and Erik pressed his lips into Charles, the perfect kiss. Then he did something they hadn't planned: Erik dipped him and kissed Charles Navy style.
"Eep!" Charles squeaked, blushing the colour of a ripe tomato and hugged Erik tightly. The wedding party erupted into applause and roaring laughter.
"I love you, baby," Erik said, nuzzling his blushing husband.
"Oh god, I love you too! Always and forever."
"Forever and always."