Don and John stood together in silence at the makeshift altar. Beautiful native wildflowers, in every color imaginable, lined both sides of the Jupiter 2's ramp which led up to them. Dr. Smith, and Penny occupied two of the chairs that were placed on both sides. As they anxiously awaited the ceremony, Will gently strummed a lyrical greensleeves on his guitar.
Don fidgeted as he stood focused on the ground in front of him. Maybe it was the fact that he hadn't worn his dress blues in over 3 years, maybe it was the midday sun shining down on him, or maybe it was just plain nervousness invading every ounce of his being - Don couldn't really be sure why his hands were shaking slightly. Suddenly the music paused, along with his heartbeat.
Will began to strum the familiar cords of the wedding march, and Don slowly turned his gaze toward the Jupiter 2's entrance. There before him stood Judy. She was breathtaking. Her gown was enchanting, much more than he could have ever imagined. Her golden hair was brushed back from her beautiful face, and hung loosely about her bare shoulders. He had never seen her look more lovely.
Maureen suddenly appeared by her side. As she escorted her daughter down the aisle, ribbons attached to Judy's bouquet fluttered in the breeze with each step she took.
As John watched, he couldn't help but remember his own wedding day. The sight of Maureen walking down the aisle was overwhelming. And now his little girl was making that same trip. It brought a huge smile to his face.
Judy glanced around the small group of people. This was her family, the most important people in her life. She loved them all so much, and at that moment wished to be nowhere else in the universe.
As Maureen and Judy reached the end of the aisle, Maureen gave her a quick kiss on the cheek, and promptly took her seat in the front.
Don took Judy's hands in his own and they turned to face her father.
John cleared his throat, and slowly began. "Over the centuries, Captains of ships have had one joyous duty above all others - that being the privilege of joining two people in the bonds of holy matrimony. It is my privilege today to carry on this great tradition with two exceptional young people - Judy, my precious daughter; and Don, my best friend."
"We've been on a long journey which is not over yet. During this time Don & Judy have experienced more than most couples experience in a life time. They've persevered as a couple through all of these trials and tribulations. Life does not promise us an easy ride. It's how we accept life's challenges that show our true measure..."
Don tried to focus on the words spoken by John, but he was captivated looking at Judy. All of his focus was on her. His eyes locked with hers. He was lost in their sparkling blue depth.
"Don and Judy have chosen to face life's challenges together as a couple. I'm sure they'll have many adventures and experiences ahead of them. Their love and support for each other will help them face any hurdle, and hardship, they may encounter." John paused, "I understand you both have a few words you'd like to share. Judy…"
Judy blushed slightly and gazed into Don's deep hazel eyes. "Don, I knew the moment I met you that you were the one for me. You are the most courageous man I know. This journey we've been on has been difficult. Yet I wouldn't choose to be anyplace else in the universe. I love you, and always will. I promise to be by your side, to support, comfort and cherish you forever."
Don swallowed hard and began, "Judy, I've spent most of my life looking at the stars and believing that my destiny lie with them. Then I met you. When I look into your eyes, I see my future. You are my bright shining star. When I look at you I see truth, beauty, and compassion. I see where, and what, I want to be. And I promise, this day, to always love you, protect you, never take you for granted, and to build a life with you - wherever God may take us."
A solitary tear trickled down Judy's cheek. Don gently wiped it away with his thumb, as they both turned again to face John.
John smiled and continued. "Judith Elana Robinson do you take Donald Michael West to be your wedded husband? To have and to hold from this day forward, until death do you part?"
"I do."
"Donald Michael West do you take Judith Elana Robinson to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold from this day forward, until death do you part?"
"I do."
John concluded. "By the power vested in me as Captain of the Jupiter 2, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Don, you may kiss your bride."
Don took Judy in his arms and kissed her with a passion rarely seen by the others. The rest of the family clapped vehemently as they stood and approached the happy couple.
"Let the festivities begin - I'm famished!" Dr. Smith shouted as he stood and made his way toward the dining table.
"Smith, could you think about something other than your stomach for one second?" asked Don petulantly, as he shook his head in disbelief.
"It's OK Don. Everything's prepared." Maureen soothed.
The family was all a twitter as they made their way toward the reception area.
Don and Judy took their places at the head of the table never letting go of the other's hand.
"Mother, how did you do it?" Judy inquired. "I don't recognize half of these recipes, and everything tastes so wonderful!"
"Oh, it was nothing, dear." Maureen said with a smile.
"You think that was great, just wait until you see the cake!" Will enthusiastically announced.
"Cake, we have cake?" Dr. Smith asked greedily.
As the cake was served and enjoyed by all, John tapped his knife on his drinking glass. The clanging noise silenced everyone, and they looked to him in anticipation. "Judy, Don, we love you both very much, and we couldn't be happier for you. We all wanted to give you something really special, but that did give us a bit of a challenge..."
Don and Judy looked at him bewildered.
"You know, we didn't really have a lot of options when it came to getting your wedding gift. It took us a while to figure out what you might want, and Maureen came up with this..." John handed Don the keys to the chariot.
Don took the keys from John and laughed, "So, you're giving us the chariot for our wedding gift. Gee thanks, John!"
John mischievous smile started to reveal itself. "Actually, we're not giving you the chariot, we're giving you your honeymoon. Your gift is WHERE the chariot will take you."
Don and Judy looked at each other anxious and perplexed.
Maureen then spoke, "Everything's arranged. Your bags are packed and in the back. You have at least 5 days of clothes. I've also packed a little something to eat for later on, but don't worry about any of that. Everything's been arranged."
John escorted the couple from the table and to the chariot. "Just get in, sit back, and relax. The coordinates have been programmed into the chariot's navigation system. You should be there in twenty minutes or so."
Don smiled from ear to ear, and took John's hand in a hearty handshake. "Thank you Sir."
Hugs and kisses were shared, and goodbyes were said. Don helped his new bride into the front seat, and quickly ran around to the driver's side. As he climbed in, he waved to everyone, shut the door, and plopped down in the driver's seat.
"Are you ready, Mrs. West?"
Judy smiled and shook her head yes. Don put the vehicle in gear, and the chariot headed off toward their surprise destination.
