The Fairest of Them All, Who's as Beautiful as Me

by TrudiRose

Smarting from the loss of Belle and his defeat at the hands of the Beast, Gaston goes in search of adventure to distract himself and comes upon another Disney heroine who, although beautiful, is as different from Belle as anyone could imagine.

35. The Day Your Dreams Come True

Early on the morning of Gaston and Snow White's wedding, two royal carriages were sent to the village to bring the bride, groom, and their attendants to the castle to get ready before the guests arrived. Cogsworth greeted them at the castle door. "Welcome, welcome, congratulations and felicitations on this joyous occasion," he said briskly. "Bride and her attendants, please follow Babette; groom and groomsmen follow me, please!"

Snow White was bubbling over with rapture. This was the day she had been dreaming about her entire life. She hugged Gaston joyfully. "Just think: by this afternoon we will be husband and wife!"

"Finally!" Gaston said. After all the false starts, he felt like he'd been waiting forever for this day. He kissed her. "You're going to be the most beautiful bride ever."

She smiled. "And you will be the most handsome groom!"

"Naturally," he agreed with a grin.

Snow White started to follow Babette, then remembered something and hurried back to him. Drawing him aside, she whispered, "I have a little favor to ask you. Just for today, do you think-"

"Let me guess," Gaston interrupted, rolling his eyes. "Be nice to Adam. Am I right?"

She smiled sheepishly. "Yes. He IS giving us this beautiful setting for our wedding, after all, and he provided the food and music and everything. It's only right to be gracious to him. We owe him so much."

"I know," Gaston said with a sigh. She was right, but he really hated feeling that he owed Adam anything. "I'll try."

Snow White got up on tiptoe and kissed him. "Thank you so much. After all, this is our wedding day! I want it to be perfect and special and just full of love and peace and harmony! No fighting."

Gaston had to smile. She was just so sweet, all sunshine and rainbows. "All right. For you. I'll see you in a little while...wife," he said, relishing the word.

Snow White beamed. "See you soon, husband!" she replied happily, and followed Babette.

Gaston, Lefou and Ferdinand then followed Cogsworth to a room where their wedding outfits waited, along with servants to help with tying cravats just so or any other assistance that might be needed.

Next, Cogsworth went to fetch Adam and Belle, who were getting dressed in their own room. "Your Highnesses, the bride and her attendants are in the lavender room, and the groom and groomsmen are in the green room."

"Thank you, Cogsworth," Adam said.

Belle said to Adam, "Thank you again for agreeing to host the wedding here. I know it means a lot to Snow White. And try your best not to butt heads with Gaston, no matter what he does to annoy you. It IS his wedding day, after all."

"I'll try," Adam promised. He smiled at her reminiscently. "I was just remembering our wedding day...how incredible it was to be myself again, and to know that you actually wanted to spend your life with me. I kept thinking I must be dreaming."

Belle nodded. "Me too," she said, her voice heartfelt. "To me, it was just such a miracle that you were alive and safe. After everything we went through, all the danger and fear... I was so thankful to know that we made it through, and now we would always be together."

"Yes. A wedding is a special day," Adam agreed. "So I promise: I won't ruin it for Gaston, no matter how obnoxious he is. I'll just keep reminding myself that it's just one day, and tomorrow he'll be gone forever and I'll never have to see him ever again."

"That's the spirit!" Belle said, although she felt a pang at the knowledge that her friend Snow White would be gone forever, too. She kissed Adam and went to the lavender room to meet the other attendants.

She entered to see the bride looking lovelier than ever in her wedding dress, smiling with pure joy. "I just can't believe this is really happening!" Snow White was saying blissfully. "The day I've been waiting for all my life!"

"Oh, Snow White, you look resplendent! A picture-perfect bride," Mme. Aiguille said. "I'm so proud of you, dear." She wiped away a tear, moved by the occasion.

"Thank you for working on the dress with me," Snow White told her. "It meant so much to me."

When the royal tailors had first presented Snow White with possible dress designs, she had requested that she and Mme. Aiguille sew the basic shell of the dress themselves, and then the royal tailors could add all the embellishments. "Sewing together in your shop was how we became so close," she had told Mme. Aiguille at the time. "And this is the most important dress I will ever wear – it would be even more special if you and sew it together. It will feel like I'm wearing a dress filled with love!" Mme. Aiguille had been touched by the sentimental idea, and they had spent several nights happily sewing the fine silk and fashioning it into a basic dress before turning it over to the experts at the castle, who added the sweetheart neckline, the fancy train, the intricate lace embroidery and tiny decorative diamonds.

Now Snow White turned around happily, admiring the finished product.

"You really do look absolutely gorgeous," Monique said. She grinned. "I can't wait to see Gaston's reaction!"

"You'll take his breath away," Amelie agreed.

"It's true. Why, I think you might even distract Gaston's attention from how handsome HE looks!" Belle joked. "For a few seconds, at least."

Snow White giggled. "Oh, I hope so!"

Meanwhile, in the green room, Gaston had gotten dressed and was rapturously admiring his own reflection in the mirror. He was thrilled to see that looked even better than he had expected! He had originally requested a bright scarlet tailcoat, but the royal tailors had insisted that maroon would be much more tasteful and more befitting royalty. Now, admiring himself, Gaston had to admit they were right: he looked truly splendid, the handsomest he had ever been (which was saying a lot), and very posh and sophisticated, like a true prince. He couldn't wait for Snow White to see him!

Snow is one lucky girl! he thought proudly. Then he frowned. I just hope that when she sees me, she doesn't swoon and faint in the middle of the ceremony - that would be awkward. He was so overwhelmingly gorgeous today, it seemed like a definite possibility. Oh, well, if she does, I'll just catch her before she falls, he groomsmen, meanwhile, were dressed in elegant blue outfits.

"You look great, Gaston!" Lefou enthused. "But then, you always do. Snow White's gonna be SO thrilled when she sees you!"

"Of course she will. How could she not be?" Gaston said, preening.

Adam entered the room. "Congratulations, Gaston. Best of luck to you and Snow White."

"Thank you," Gaston said. Remembering Snow White's plea, he recited dutifully, "And thank you for hosting the wedding."

"You're very welcome," Adam replied, equally dutifully.

Then they smiled, both mentally congratulating themselves and thinking, There - I was very polite! My wife would be proud.

Cogsworth knocked on the door and entered. "Your Highness, the guests have begun to arrive."

"Thank you, Cogsworth," Adam said, and left the room. Gaston followed him, eager to see the assembled crowd. They arrived at an upstairs railing that looked down on the Great Hall, where the villagers were all milling about and talking excitedly. Gaston was gratified to see such a huge crowd for his wedding.

As Adam surveyed the crowd, he remembered Belle's suggestion that this wedding was a perfect opportunity for him to connect with his subjects. He stepped forward and cleared his throat, about to make an announcement to formally welcome the guests to his castle.

Seeing Adam about to speak, Gaston frowned. What's he doing? This is MY wedding, and MY guests! he thought indignantly. Damn it, I KNEW he would try to take over everything if we let him host it here! Well, we'll just see about that!

Before Adam could speak, Gaston elbowed past him and boomed out, "Welcome, everyone, to the event of a lifetime: my wedding! Snow and I are delighted that you could all be here to share our joy. I promise you, it will be a day to remember all your lives!" The villagers cheered. Gaston grinned proudly and waved at the crowd.

Adam glared at him in annoyance. Talk about nerve! I'm nice enough to let him have his wedding here, and he immediately starts acting like he owns the place! But with an effort, he held his tongue, reminding himself It's just one day...

As the servants led the guests to the royal chapel to be seated, Gaston and Adam went back to the green dressing room to wait with Lefou and Ferdinand. Soon Cogsworth came in and told them it was time to begin. They exited the room and stood waiting in the hallway.

Meanwhile, in the lavender room, Belle, Monique, Amelie, and Mme. Aiguille were all ready, so Belle said, "I'll go see if it's time to start."

She left the room and saw Cogsworth in the hallway, along with Gaston, Lefou, Adam, and Ferdinand. Cogsworth bowed to Belle. "Your Highness, I was just about to knock to tell you we are ready to begin. The guests are all seated, and the preacher requests the wedding party to gather at the doors in the back of the chapel."

"All right. I'll tell the girls," Belle said. She smiled at Gaston. "So, this is it! Are you ready to become a married man?"

"Oh, yes!" Gaston said, beaming.

"You certainly look the part. That tailcoat suits you," Belle complimented him.

"Why, thank you, Belle." Gaston winked at her. "Having regrets? Sorry - you missed your chance!"

Belle laughed and shook her head. "I'm fine, thanks. But I just hope that new castle of yours is big enough."

"Big enough for what?" Gaston asked.

"To hold your ego!" Belle said. She went into the dressing room to tell the girls to get ready.

Adam looked askance at Gaston's flirtatious comment to Belle. It seemed inappropriate to him, especially considering all he had done to her in the past. "Watch how you talk to my wife," he warned.

"Relax, I was kidding," Gaston said offhandedly. "Did you honestly think I'd want Belle when I have someone like Snow? Believe me, you can keep her!"

Adam frowned. "Are you disparaging Belle?"

"Am I doing what with Belle? Look, pal, I never touched her!" Gaston said, exasperated. "I told you, Snow's the only girl for me. Really, I don't know why I even invited you to my wedding!"

"Because this is my house," Adam muttered. He sighed. Just one day, just one day...

Belle came back out of the dressing room, followed by Amelie, Monique, and Mme. Aiguille.

Gaston frowned, seeing that his bride was not with them. "Where's Snow?" he asked them. "Isn't she ready yet?"

Suddenly he was overcome with panic that something had gone wrong. Maybe she's changed her mind. Or maybe she's been kidnapped! Sure, everything had seemed to be going well – but that was what he had thought the last two times he'd tried to get married, both of which had ended in disaster.

But to his vast relief, Belle replied, "She's ready. She just doesn't want you to see her before the wedding. As soon as you go through the doors, Mme. Aiguille will fetch her."

Cogsworth said officiously, "Now, if you will all please line up here outside the chapel doors...Best man and maid of honor first...Splendid...Now the ushers and bridesmaids, two by two...and last, the groom...Excellent! We are ready to begin!" He poked his head through the doors and signaled to the organist to begin playing.

At the sound of the music, the seated guests turned expectantly to the back of the chapel. Lefou and Belle walked down the aisle and took their places as best man and matron of honor, followed by Adam and Amelie, then Ferdinand and Monique.

Then Gaston strode down the aisle, grinning from ear to ear as he basked in the attention, all eyes riveted on him. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Bambi and Bubbles swooning. I've still got it, he thought, gratified. He reached the front and turned, eager to see his bride in her wedding dress for the first time. An expectant hush fell over the crowd.

Snow White entered on the arm of Mme. Aiguille, who was giving her away. At the sight of his bride, Gaston actually did momentarily forget about himself - as well as everything else in the world. The room was filled with excited whispers of admiration, but Gaston didn't hear it. There was only her. Snow White was lovelier than anyone had ever seen her – a stunningly beautiful angel in white silk who had descended from heaven to grace their presence. She was smiling shyly, but the pure joy shining from her eyes made her radiant – she almost glowed with happiness. Gaston had never seen anything in his life so absolutely perfect - not even himself.

Then her eyes met his, and she smiled wider. Gaston grinned back at her, delighted by the realization that out of all the men in the whole world, he was the luckiest: the one man who would get to spend the rest of his life with her.

He recalled the day he had first met Snow White - how he had thought of winning her kiss as merely a challenge and a game. He was ashamed to think of that now. Snow White's love isn't some cheap toy. It's something special and priceless, something she would give only to the one man she found worthy of it. Gaston's heart swelled with pride and gratitude to think that she had chosen HIM to give her heart to, even over the valiant Prince Ferdinand, even despite his less-than-honorable past. She won't ever regret it, he vowed to himself. I'm going to be worthy of her, a hero and a husband she can be proud of. I'll make her happy for the rest of her life.

Snow White came up to Gaston and smiled at him, her eyes full of love. He smiled back and squeezed her hand.

The preacher began, "Dearly beloved, we are here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony..." He went on with the familiar words.

But as Gaston listened to the preacher drone on, he began to feel dissatisfied. He and Snow White were special! They deserved a ceremony that was unique to them, not just the same rote thing said to every couple! When the preacher paused, he spoke up. "Wait a minute. I'd like to say a few words."

"Of course he does," Adam muttered.

Gaston turned to his bride. "Snow, before I met you, of course I knew plenty of girls in the village. I even proposed to one of them." He glanced over at Belle with a rueful smile and a sheepish shrug. "Admittedly, NOT the best decision I ever made..." This elicited chuckles from the audience.

Belle smiled, glad that Gaston was now able to acknowledge he'd made a mistake, and even reframe the incident as a funny mishap, rather than a source of humiliation and anger.

Gaston went on, "But Belle, I want to thank you, because you actually did me a favor. If you had said yes, I wouldn't be here today. And I would have missed out on the greatest thing that's ever happened to me."

The audience responded with "Awwwws."

Gaston took Snow White's hands in his. "Snow, what I'm trying to say is this: I've known other women, but I've never felt about anyone the way I feel about you." He looked into her eyes. "I love you, Snow White," he said seriously. "I've never said that to anyone before. Ever. But I mean it. I love you. And I am...I am..."

He paused in frustration, struggling to find the right words to express the importance of this. "I am honored to be the man that you love," he said finally. "Winning your heart is the greatest achievement of my life - more than any trophy or contest, more than defeating the Evil Queen. Marrying you is the best thing I will ever do. And I swear to you, Snow White, for as long as I live, I will love you, and protect you, and take care of you, and always try to be the kind of man who's worthy of your love."

Despite himself, Adam was impressed. "Did you write that for him?" he whispered to Belle.

Belle shook her head. "No. I'm stunned. I didn't know he had that in him!"

Snow White looked up at her groom, touched by his words. "Oh, Gaston..." she said. "From the very first day we met, when you so bravely saved my life, you were my hero! But as I've gotten to know you, I've come to love and admire you even more. You've shown so much courage and self-sacrifice- not just in risking your life for me time and again, but in so many other ways too, facing challenges that are much harder than just fighting monsters."

Gaston nodded, relieved that she was being discreet, instead of publicizing his misdeeds and attempts at redemption.

"I've seen you become a better man day by day, and it makes me love you more than words can ever express," Snow White went on. "All my life, I always dreamed of finding my one true love...but Gaston, loving you is so much more wonderful than I ever could have dreamed! You make me feel so safe and protected, like I've finally come home after a terrifying journey. I am so grateful that you came into my life. And I promise to spend my life loving you, and cooking all your favorite meals, and making a warm comfortable welcoming home for you to come back to after a hard day, and hopefully raising lots and lots of little babies with you, and, well, just doing everything I can to be a good wife to you and make you happy!"

Gaston grinned. "You're the perfect woman, Snow. I always said so. And I'll do everything I can to be a good husband and make you happy, too." They stood there smiling at each other.

After a moment, the preacher cleared his throat. "May I conclude the ceremony now?"

"Yes," Gaston said. "We're ready."

"Very good. Now then..if any person here can show just cause why these two people should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace."

Gaston couldn't help glancing nervously at the door. Both of his other weddings had been unexpectedly interrupted – he was positive that someone or something would come bursting through to ruin his happiness this time too.

But to his vast relief, nothing happened. The preacher continued the vows. "Do you have the ring?"

Gaston drew the gold-and-ruby ring out of his pocket with a flourish and slipped it onto his bride's finger. Since he hadn't had the ring with him when he proposed, Snow White had not seen it until now. Now her eyes widened, and she let out an involuntary squeal of delight."Oh, Gaston! It's perfect!"

"Just like you," Gaston said, enjoying her pleasure.

"And you!" she said, looking up at him.

Off to the side, Lefou smiled to himself, glad that he had chosen well.

The preacher went on and led them in saying their vows.

When Snow White said, "I do," Gaston let out a breath he hadn't known he'd been holding. Finally! They'd done it! No one could take her away from him now.

"I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride," the preacher said.

Gaston immediately took Snow White in his arms and kissed her deeply, leaning her back till she was parallel to the floor, to the thunderous cheers of the audience. Then he drew her back up and said with a grin, "We did it, Snow!"

"Yes!" she said. "And now we can live happily ever after!" She hugged him joyfully. "Oh, Gaston...This is the day my dreams came true!"

"Mine too," he agreed warmly.

Cogsworth announced from the back of the chapel, "Ladies and gentlemen, please follow me into the ballroom, where a lavish banquet awaits you!"

As they entered the ballroom, Gaston stopped short, stunned at the breathtaking sight before him. He had never been in the ballroom before, and he had left all the party planning to Snow White, so this was all new to him. Now he looked with amazement at the classical columns, the high ceiling painted with cherubs, the shining marble floor, the elaborate decorations, the tasteful string quintet playing classical music, the lavish feast spread out on long tables lining the walls of the room. It truly was a reception befitting royalty. He was gratified to see how impressed the the villagers were, all oohing and aahing and buzzing excitedly. This truly WAS a wedding to remember! Gaston puffed out his chest with pride.

Then a realization struck him. This is all due to Adam and Belle. Not just the castle, but all the party planning, and the clothes, and the fancy decorations, and the food, and the music, and EVERYTHING. Snow is right: if it weren't for them, we'd just be in the little village church with a party at the tavern afterward, like everyone else has.

He hesitated, squirming a little at the knowledge. Adam was certainly a royal pain who got on his nerves, always holding a grudge and acting so superior...but Gaston had to admit that this was a truly magnificent celebration, totally worthy of him and Snow White. It was everything Gaston had wanted: the fanciest wedding anyone in the village had ever seen, one that would be talked about for years and years to come. But without Adam and Belle's generosity, none of it would have been possible.

Adam really did come through for us today, Gaston grudgingly admitted to himself. And, well... to be totally honest...considering that I DID try to kill him once, it actually was nice of him. As much as he hated to give the guy credit, he knew he had to. It was the right thing to do.

He clinked a spoon against a glass to get everyone's attention. The room fell silent, and all eyes turned to him. Gaston announced, "Thank you all for coming today. I'm glad to see that everyone is having a good time. Right now, I'd like to take this moment to publicly thank Prince Adam and Princess Belle for hosting our wedding and allowing us to use their castle. So thank you, Adam and Belle! It was very generous of you, and Snow and I appreciate it. Once we're officially king and queen of Bavaria, we'll have to return the favor and host you at our castle." Even while trying to be nice, he just couldn't resist the opportunity to remind everyone that he would soon be royalty too, with a castle of his own. "Everyone, please give Prince Adam and Princess Belle a big round of applause for this magnificent celebration!" The villagers applauded and cheered. Snow White beamed, delighted that Gaston had remembered to be polite all on his own, and Gaston winked at her.

Adam was stunned. He had never in a million years expected Gaston to thank him publicly, at least not without major prompting from Snow White. He stood up and said sincerely, "You're welcome, Gaston. I'm glad you're enjoying it. We wish you and Snow White all the happiness in the world."

With harmony and good fellowship abounding, everyone sat down to enjoy the feast, which had more courses and fancy dishes and desserts than the villagers had ever seen in their lives. Then it was time for dancing.

Gaston drew Snow White on to the dance floor for their first dance, and he held her close. She sighed happily. "Oh, Gaston. This is the happiest night of my life."

"Mine too," he said, and kissed her.

The rest of the wedding party and the guests then joined them on the dance floor. The villagers were thrilled at the opportunity to dance in a royal ballroom, as if they were nobility themselves. It was a night they would never forget.

During the party, several of the village men took the opportunity to go over to Maurice. "Maurice," the baker said humbly. "We want to apologize for what happened the last time you were in the village. Things kind of got out of control...but we behaved badly toward you, and we're sorry."

"Oh, think nothing of it!" Maurice said, ever forgiving. "I'm sure I did sound crazy. But all's well that ends well!"

"Thank you," the baker said, relieved.

Maurice had an idea. "As long as you're here, why don't I show you some of my new inventions?"

The men exchanged a glance. "Sure, why not?" said Francois. It was the least they could do.

"Wonderful!" Maurice said, and led them to his workroom. They had expected to merely be polite, but when he demonstrated his wood-chopping machine, they were impressed despite themselves. "Say...do you think I could have one of those?" Francois asked. "It would sure come in handy."

"I want one too!" said the butcher.

"Of course!" Maurice said, beaming.

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Back in the ballroom, Bunny finished her dessert and put down her fork with a satisfied sigh. "Everything here was so delicious, wasn't it?" she said to Ferdinand.

"Yes," Ferdinand agreed, but in truth, he hadn't been able to eat a thing. He was too anxious and distracted, and his stomach was in knots. This is it. Tonight is the night. I HAVE to ask her, or I'll lose my chance. Tomorrow morning I need to leave! His heart was pounding. But how do I do it? What is the right moment? What if it's too soon, and she thinks me too forward? And the most devastating thought of all: What if she says no? He had waged many battles in his life and fearlessly fought for his life against a monster without hesitation, but asking this one question was the most terrifying task he had ever faced.

Lost in his thoughts, he was brought back to reality by the sound of music. Seeing everyone getting up to dance, he abruptly stood up, bowed to Bunny and held out his hand. "May I have this dance, my lady?"

She giggled and curtseyed. "Of course, my lord." He swept her onto the dance floor and twirled her around the room.

Bunny felt lighter than air. She couldn't help fantasizing that this was their wedding in his castle. If only... She stopped herself, reminding herself what she had told her sisters. Just enjoy the moment! Don't worry about the future.

But as the evening wore on, Bunny could see that Ferdinand seemed distracted. Something was on his mind. "Is anything wrong?" she asked.

"What? Oh, no! Of course not," he said. But seeing her look of concern, he suddenly seemed to make a decision. "Bunny..." He hesitated. "Let us go outside. There is something I need to talk to you about."

The unexpectedly serious tone of his voice worried her. It was out of place on such a happy occasion. "All right," she said in a small voice.

Outside in the garden, she waited for him to speak. He was clearly nervous and agitated. Bunny couldn't imagine what was wrong. As she watched him pacing, trying to find the right words, a sinking feeling of dread grew in the pit of her stomach. If it was so difficult for him to tell her, it had to be very, very bad.

Finally he turned to her. "Bunny, I have told you before about my responsibilities as prince and future king of my realm." She nodded, and he continued. "When I first came to Molyneaux, I had already been searching for Snow White for many weeks. When I learned that she was here, I intended to take her back home with me immediately. Of course, as you know, that didn't happen. And in truth, I am glad of it, because it enabled me to meet you." He smiled at her, and she smiled back, a bit reassured.

He went on, "However, with all that has happened since then, I have now been away from my kingdom for several months. A few weeks ago, I received a letter from my father. He was furious that I have tarried here so long, and he ordered me to return home at once and resume my studies and my royal duties. I wrote back to him explaining that I wanted to stay for Gaston and Snow White's wedding – I hoped that would appease him, since they are poised to become the rulers of the kingdom adjacent to ours, and attending their wedding would be a wise diplomatic move." Ferdinand looked at Bunny seriously. "But I had to promise him that as soon as the wedding was over, I would hasten home forthwith."

He took a deep breath. "In short... I must depart Molyneaux tomorrow to return to my own kingdom."

His words hit Bunny like a heavy stone, crushing her heart. Suddenly it was hard to breathe. He's leaving... She turned away quickly so that he wouldn't see the anguish on her face. THAT'S what he was having so much trouble telling me. He's saying goodbye! And I'll never, ever see him again...She choked back a sob.

"Bunny!" Ferdinand cried in alarm. "I did not mean to distress you! Please, forgive me-"

"It's all right!" she managed to say, forcing a smile. "Of course you have to return to your kingdom. You couldn't stay in a tiny backwater town like this forever!"

But belying her casual words, her eyes filled with tears. I'm such an idiot! she mentally berated herself. All my silly daydreams about Ferdinand being the one man who could love me..how could I be so foolish? He's a PRINCE! He deserves to marry a royal princess, not a peasant! He was only being kind to me, someone to talk to, nothing more...

She struggled to speak calmly. "It has been a pleasure knowing you, Your Highness. I wish you all the best in your kingdom." Despite her efforts, tears were rolling down her cheeks. "I have to go now!" she blurted suddenly, and turn and ran.

"No, Bunny, wait! You don't understand!" Ferdinand called after her.

Bunny ran faster. I can't let him see me cry! I don't want to make him feel bad. He's so kind - he didn't mean to hurt me. It's not HIS fault that read too much into it - that I was a silly romantic fool and got my hopes up again! Why am I always so STUPID? You'd think I'd have learned my lesson after Gaston! But Ferdinand was so wonderful, so dear, so understanding...He was the only person who ever really saw me for ME... Another sob broke from her at the thought of all the lonely years ahead without him.

"Bunny, please! Stop! Just listen to...ooof!"

Bunny turned and saw that Ferdinand, who had been chasing after her, had tripped over a bush and was sprawled facedown on the ground. "Oh!" she said, running back to him. "Are you all right?"

Ferdinand stood up quickly and tried to brush the dirt and leaves from his expensive suit. "Yes, I'm fine!" he said hastily, clearly embarrassed by the undignified mishap. Seeing her tear-stained face, he immediately took out his handkerchief and gently wiped away her tears. "Oh, Bunny..." he said remorsefully. "Please, please forgive me! I have made such a dreadful muddle of this!" Abruptly, he dropped to one knee, took her hand, and blurted, "Will you marry me?"

Bunny blinked in confusion. "W-what?" she squeaked.

"Will you marry me?" he repeated anxiously. "I know that it is sudden and that we have not known each other for very long. I deeply apologize if I seem forward or presumptuous! But as I explained, I must depart tomorrow. That is what I was trying to tell you – that this is my only opportunity to propose. Bunny, I love you, and I want to marry you! But only if it is what you want, of course." He wet his lips nervously. "Do...do you want to?" He looked up at her with a mixture of hope and fear.

Bunny was too stunned to speak. She couldn't quite grasp what was happening. She struggled to process and comprehend his words – had he really said what she thought she had heard? Was she dreaming?

Then, as his words finally sunk in, a warm glow slowly filled her like the summer sun. Tears continued to flow down her cheeks, but now they were tears of relief and joy. "Oh, Ferdinand! YES! Of course I want to marry you!"

Ferdinand let out a sigh of relief. "Oh, thank goodness!" He leaped to his feet. "My darling, dearest Bunny..." He gently placed his hands on the sides of her face, caressing her cheek. Then he kissed her. His lips were so soft and warm, so loving...like a fairy tale come true.

Bunny could have stayed in his arms kissing him forever – her dear Ferdinand, so kind and honorable and noble, who actually, truly loved her. ..

Then abruptly, she stepped back and playfully slapped at his chest. "But you dope! How could you scare me like that? I thought you were saying goodbye and I'd never see you again!"

Ferdinand hung his head, ashamed. "Please forgive me. You know I would never intentionally cause you distress. Truly, I don't know what's wrong with me! When I proposed to Snow White, I was so eloquent, so gallant! You certainly deserved no less, and indeed far more. But somehow, I just couldn't seem to find the right words."

She was touched by his admission. His fumbling felt more real and heartfelt to her than the most flowery poetry in the world. "I think it's because you really DO love me and you were afraid of losing me. So the stakes were high and it was a lot of pressure," she told him. "But that's all right. I like this proposal. It wasn't fancy, but it came from the heart."

"It did indeed," Ferdinand agreed. "Again, you prove that are the most understanding and insightful woman in the world. And now that you have agreed to marry me, I am the luckiest and happiest of men."

Bunny smiled. "Ah, now there's that gallant prince we all know and love!" she teased.

He laughed. "Now that I am assured that my affections for you are returned and that I need not fear losing you, I promise to make up for that awkward proposal, and shower you with all the gallantry and romance you deserve for the rest of your life."

Bunny sighed happily and kissed him again. "Oh, Ferdinand, I love you so much. I'm the lucky one, not you!"

"We are both lucky, because we found each other," Ferdinand said warmly. "But my love, I must ask you one more thing: will you mind very much leaving Molyneaux? I know it is your home and you must be attached to it, but unfortunately I must return to my kingdom."

She considered that. "No, I don't mind leaving," she assured him. "Actually, I like the idea of starting a fresh new life in a new place where no one knows me. Molyneaux is where everyone saw me as just 'one of the triplets', and where I spent my life chasing shamelessly after Gaston and making a complete fool of myself." She winced. "I can't believe I ever did that – it's so humiliating to think about now!"

Ferdinand smiled. "Well, we all make mistakes," he reminded her. "'Learn from them, but don't dwell on them.' You taught me that."

"Yes, that's true," Bunny conceded. She was silent a moment. "I do have one favor to ask, if it's all right?"

"Of course," Ferdinand said immediately. "Whatever your heart may desire, ask and it shall be yours."

Oh, I love the way he talks! Bunny thought dreamily. She forced herself to focus on the point at hand. "Would it be all right if my mother and my sisters come to your kingdom too?" she asked. "They're all the family I have, and it would make me feel more at home to have them with me. Then I won't have to miss them."

"Your family will be most welcome," Ferdinand assured her. Anything to make her happy.

Then he paused as the full ramifications of that hit him. He already had to deal with smoothing over any anger caused by his prolonged absence and defiance of his father's order, as well as his parents' shock at seeing him return home with a fiancee whom they had never heard of before, and who was in no way royal. The very thought of introducing them to loud, showy Mme. Coquette and flirty Bambi and Bubbles at the same time made him cringe. It would be a disaster!

"I...have a suggestion to make," he said slowly, trying to be diplomatic. "Let us inform your mother of our intentions – and allow me to formally ask her for your hand in marriage, of course, which is only proper. Then, if she approves, let you and me travel to my kingdom first, so that I can introduce you to my parents. Meanwhile, your mother and sisters can pack and make whatever other arrangements they need to make. After a week or two, once my parents have gotten to know you and approved the match, I will send a royal carriage for your mother and sisters so they can join us."

He tried to sound casual, but Bunny got worried nonetheless. "But what if your parents don't approve of me?"

"They will," Ferdinand assured her quickly, trying to reassure himself as well. They HAD to approve; the alternative was simply unthinkable. "Believe me, Bunny, with your kind heart, your wisdom, your integrity, our kingdom will be fortunate indeed to have you as its queen. Almost as fortunate as I am to have you as my bride."

Bunny felt better at that. After all, Ferdinand knows what his parents are like, she reasoned. if he is so certain they'll approve, it must be true.

Then Ferdinand added, "But what of your family? Will your sisters be jealous of you?"

"Probably," she admitted. Then she had an idea. "Do you think you could introduce my sisters to some eligible men? That possibility will have them packing their bags in two seconds flat!"

Ferdinand laughed. "It shall be done," he promised. "Believe me, there are any number of courtiers and nobles who would jump at the chance to marry one of the sisters of the prince's intended bride. They will be highly sought after."

"Wonderful! That's all they'll need to hear." Then she turned serious. "Ferdinand...thank you so much for coming into my life," she whispered, looking up at him. "You're my dream come true. You really are."

"As you are to me," he said, gazing lovingly into her eyes. "I have always dreamed of finding my true love, my soulmate...and here you were all the time, hidden away in this little French village! In truth, I believe that my foolish infatuation with Snow White was really just destiny's way of arranging for me to meet you - for it was my quest to find her that ultimately led to our paths crossing. The Lord works in mysterious ways, as they say. And I will forever be grateful that I found you at last: my one true love, to whom I pledge my heart forever." For a moment, they just looked at each other, caught up in the magic of the moment.

Then Ferdinand smiled and took her hand. "Come, my love – let us tarry no longer. Let us tell your mother of our happy news at once!"

Bunny nodded, but with misgivings. She prayed fervently that her mother would not embarrass her in public.

But, alas, no such luck. After hearing Ferdinand's formal request for permission to wed her daughter, Mme. Coquette let out a shriek so loud and piercing that the band stopped playing and everyone turned their heads. People immediately started rushing over to her.

"What's wrong?" Marie asked.

"Nothing's wrong!" Mme. Coquette said rapturously. Raising her voice, she announced, "Everyone, listen: Prince Ferdinand has asked for Bunny's hand in marriage! My little Bunny is going to become a princess!"

Immediately the villagers erupted in a hubbub of congratulations and excited talk. Some shouted for Ferdinand to make a speech.

The prince smiled and raised his hand for quiet. "Thank you, thank you all for your kind congratulations! I will forever be grateful that my travels led me to your village, where I met the love of my life, Bunny. I am overjoyed that she has accepted my humble proposal and consented to become my wife." The villagers cheered.

Bambi gave Bunny a "thumbs up" sign. "Good for you, sis," she said sincerely. "At least one of us got the prize!"

"Thanks, Bambi," said Bunny gratefully.

"Yeah, congratulations," Bubbles said, but she couldn't help pouting. "I just wish it could happen to me!"

"Maybe it will," Bunny said encouragingly. "Ferdinand said that once you move to our kingdom, and he and I get married, men are going to be lining up to court the princess' sisters."

"Really?" Bubbles squealed. "That's fabulous! Oh, I'll have to get ready for that! I'll need new dresses, and shoes, and ribbons..."

Meanwhile, Marie was marveling to Mme. Boucher. "My goodness! Why, just think: that's two of our village girls marrying royalty!"

"And three villagers all together, if you count Gaston!" Mme. Boucher pointed out.

Gaston scowled at overhearing that comment. This was his wedding, the biggest day of his life, his final farewell to the village! He and Snow White were supposed to be the center of attention. But now, everyone was buzzing about Ferdinand and Bunny, forgetting the current bride and groom. And when someone did mention Gaston, it was only to lump him in with two girls as someone who had lucked out and married far above his station – hardly the image he was trying to project. To call him "miffed" would be an understatement.

Thanks for stealing my thunder on my wedding day, Ferdinand! he thought petulantly. It's great that you're getting married...but you couldn't have waited till tomorrow to announce it?

But Snow White, as always, put things in perspective. "Oh, Gaston!" she said joyfully. "Isn't that wonderful news? Everything was already so perfect...but it makes it even more perfect to know that so many of our friends are getting happy endings, too!"

Gaston had to smile at that. His Snow couldn't be truly happy unless everyone else around her was. Her sweetness was both admirable and adorable.

Snow leaned closer, confiding, "To be honest, I always felt guilty that our happiness came at Ferdinand's expense. You know I never want to make anyone sad. And yet, even after I turned him down, he still risked his life to save me from the Evil Queen. He's such a good, selfless person – he deserved to find true love of his own. I'm so glad that he has!"

Gaston had to agree. "You're right. Ferdinand is a good guy. And we do owe him a lot for helping to rescue you. Since he can't have you, it IS nice that he found a girl of his own."

He pushed his earlier selfish feelings aside, now feeling a little ashamed of his initial reaction. He WAS happy for Ferdinand, really – it was just so hard to shake the lifelong habit of his first immediate thought always being "How does this affect me?"

He strode over to Ferdinand. "Congratulations!" he said, shaking the prince's hand.

"Thank you, Gaston," Ferdinand said. Knowing whom he was talking to, he added, "I apologize for drawing attention away from you and Snow White on your wedding day - I wasn't expecting Bunny's mother to scream like that."

"Oh, nonsense! That never even occurred to us!" Gaston said magnanimously, with a dismissive wave. Turning to Bunny, he added, "Congratulations to you, too! I'm glad to see that you took my wise advice and found someone else, instead of staying heartbroken and pining for me for the rest of your life."

Bunny resisted the urge to roll her eyes. What did I ever see in him? "Yes," she said sweetly, "once I met Ferdinand, I realized how foolish I was to have ever chased after you."

Gaston frowned. It almost sounded like there was an insult hidden in there somewhere, but he couldn't quite work it out.

Snow White came forward and hugged first Bunny and then Ferdinand, telling them enthusiastically how happy she was for them. "And your kingdom is right near ours, so we can visit each other!" she added joyfully.

"That's true," Bunny said, smiling. "It will a whole new life in a new place – it will be nice to know someone nearby."

Lefou and Amelie congratulated the engaged couple as well. Then Lefou drew Gaston aside. "Gaston, was that your idea for them to announce their engagement at your wedding? That was so smart of you!" he said admiringly. "It made your wedding an even bigger event! The town hero has the biggest wedding ever, in a royal castle, and then during the reception, a prince gets engaged to a villager?" Lefou grinned. "No one is EVER gonna be able to top that!"

"You're right, Lefou!" Gaston said, lighting up. He hadn't thought of it that way. He really should thank Ferdinand for his timing!

-o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o -o

As the hour grew late, the party began to wind down, and the villagers began to depart. Adam and Belle were pleased to see that on their way out, all the guests stopped to thank them for the wonderful evening, and expressed the hope of seeing them more often in their humble village. It seemed the party had accomplished the goal of helping them connect with their subjects, and Belle couldn't wait to put her public book-reading plan into action.

Ferdinand and Bunny came up to them. Ferdinand bowed and said, "Thank you for a lovely evening. Sadly, it is time for us to take our leave. We depart for my kingdom tomorrow. But I will never forget my time here, and our friendship, and all the adventures we have shared. And I look forward to working with you in future in an official capacity as well. When I return home, I will ask my father to appoint me ambassador to your region, so that we may formalize our diplomatic and trade agreements."

Adam nodded. "It's been a pleasure knowing you, Ferdinand, and I too look forward to continuing both our friendship and our diplomatic relations."

Belle added, "And congratulations to you both on your engagement! We're so happy for you."

Ferdinand smiled. "Thank you. It's funny how things work out, isn't it? I came to France to find my true love...and in the end, I did find her." He squeezed Bunny's hand, looking fondly at her.

Bunny sighed happily. "Isn't he wonderful?" she said to Belle.

"He is," Belle agreed, smiling.

Bunny hesitated. "Belle...I mean, Your Highness-"

"Belle is fine," Belle corrected.

Bunny nodded. "Belle...I know I wasn't very nice to you when you lived in the village. I just wanted to say I'm sorry."

Belle waved that away. "Thank you, but it's fine. Don't worry about it." She smiled. "Just go off and live happily ever after."

Bunny giggled. "We will!"

Hand in hand, they went to join Bunny's mother and sisters so that the ever-gallant Ferdinand could escort them home.

Gaston watched the party drawing to a close and felt a bit wistful that it was over...until he remembered what came next. His wedding night! Suddenly he couldn't wait to get out of there. "Ready to go home, Madame Avenant?" he asked.

Snow White giggled with pleasure at her new name. "Yes. But first we have to say goodbye to Belle and Adam and thank them. Oh, look, here they are!"

Belle and Adam were coming toward them, each holding a wrapped box. "Congratulations again on your marriage," Adam said. "We have something for you. Two things, actually."

"A wedding present," Belle added.

Adam held out the larger box to Gaston. "This one is for you, since you're about to become a king," he said. "It's something no ruler should be without."

Gaston grinned, delighted that Adam was treating him as a royal and an equal. A kingly present...maybe it was jewels, or a crown! Eagerly he tore open the wrapping and opened the box – and immediately recoiled in disgust.

Inside was a book. A very big, very intimidating-looking book.

Gaston glared at Adam. "Is this a joke?"

"No!" Adam protested quickly. He pointed at the title: Principles of Ethical Governance. "It explains how to be a good ruler. It was very helpful to me when my spell..." He broke off, remembering that there were still villagers around, and quickly amended, "When my, uh, spell abroad ended and I returned home. This book has a lot of useful information for a king."

"Oh." Gaston looked at the book with distaste, but gingerly opened it and glanced through it. It had hundreds of pages. Each page was filled with dense, small print and big words that Gaston knew he'd never be able to read, let alone understand.

But he certainly wasn't going to admit that to Adam. "Great. Thanks," he said. "It's perfect. Really. Just what I always wanted."

Adam hesitated. "I know it looks complicated. But I'm sure you'll have royal advisers. You could have one of them read it aloud to you-" He stopped short at Gaston's insulted expression. "I just mean...if your eyes get tired from reading the small print..." he said lamely.

Belle quickly stepped forward. "Snow White, this is for you." She held out a much thinner package.

Snow White opened it and squealed with delight. It was a children's picture book of fairy tales.

Gaston rolled his eyes. Were books literally the only thing Belle EVER thought about?

Belle said to Snow White, "Do you remember that day in the carriage, when you asked me to tell you a fairy tale? The ones I told you that day are in this book, plus a few more."

"Oh!" Snow White said happily. "So when I read it, it will almost be like having you there with me!" She turned the pages. "And look, it has nice big print, and short words...I can read this easily! Thank you, Belle!"

"You're welcome," Belle said, relieved that Snow White liked the gift. She had been worried that her friend might be offended at being given an easy-to-read book that was clearly meant for children. But luckily, Snow White was taking it exactly as intended: a book that she could enjoy.

"And ooh! What pretty pictures!" Snow White gushed enthusiastically. She held up the book to show a colorful drawing of a beautiful golden-haired maiden in a tower. "Look, Gaston!"

"Yes, I see." Gaston turned back to Adam and complained, "How come SHE gets one with pictures and I don't?"

Oh, lord, Adam thought. That poor kingdom is doomed.

"I apologize, Gaston," he said. "I just thought you would prefer a book that was meant for royalty. Since you ARE royalty now." God help us all.

"Oh, right. Good point," Gaston acknowledged.

"Thank you so much!" Snow White gushed. "For the lovely presents, and for this beautiful, wonderful wedding! It was magical!"

Belle smiled. "It was, wasn't it? I'm so glad it was everything you wanted."

Gaston had to admit, "It was great. Everyone will be talking about it for years. So...thanks. Really."

Adam said magnanimously, "It was our pleasure," which wasn't entirely true, but what the heck, it was over now. "And I wish you all the best of luck in your new kingdom. I mean that."

"Thank you," Gaston said, pleased.

But Adam wasn't done. "Just...please understand what an enormous responsibility it is, being a ruler. You'll have a whole kingdom of people depending on you. There will be complicated challenges to face, and difficult decisions to make. It's hard, Gaston! Much harder than you think. So please, don't be too proud and stubborn to ask for help! Ferdinand will be nearby, and I know he'd gladly answer any questions and help you navigate things. And feel free to write to me, too. Believe me, I'd be more than happy to help and give you advice."

Gaston's eyes narrowed suspiciously. Oh, I just bet you would, he thought. You'd LOVE for me to fail and have to come begging you for help! Adam's offer might seem friendly on the surface, but Gaston knew their rivalry underscored it. The prince was just itching to prove that Gaston was a stupid peasant who couldn't handle being king, and to show off how superior he and Ferdinand – the "real" royals – were. Well, Gaston would show him! He didn't need anyone's help, least of all Adam's.

"Thank you for the offer, but it won't be necessary," he replied confidently. "Snow and I are going to be the greatest rulers that kingdom has ever seen!"

Adam sighed. "I hope so, Gaston. I truly do."

Meanwhile, Snow White was hugging Belle and saying, "Thank you for everything. I will miss you so much! Please promise you'll come visit sometimes!"

Belle hugged her back. "We will, I promise! Thank you for being such a wonderful friend. Please write and let us know how everything goes."

Snow White nodded. "And you write to me, too!"

"Come on, Snow," Gaston broke in. "Time to go home now. It IS our wedding night, after all." He winked at her meaningfully, and she blushed, remembering the sleepover in the castle when he had made her feel all tingly.

"All right, husband," she said with a shy smile. To Adam and Belle, she said, "Goodbye, my dear friends! Thank you so much for everything!"

Adam held out his hand to Gaston. "Good luck to you...King Gaston."

Gaston grinned at the title and shook Adam's hand. "Thank you...Your Highness."

With that, they left the castle.

Adam sighed and shook his head. "That poor kingdom!"

"Well...maybe it will be all right," Belle said, trying to convince herself. "Gaston is so determined to be the best at everything – maybe he'll work hard to be a good king. And Snow White is so kind. I know she'll try her best to help her people. Besides, according to her, the Evil Queen was a cruel, oppressive dictator. Surely ANY well-meaning ruler would be better than that?"

"I suppose," Adam said. "We can only hope."

"Anyway, the wedding went well," Belle added. "Thank you again for that."

"To be honest, now that it's over, I'm glad we did it," Adam admitted. "It does feel good to finally put the past behind me and end on a friendly note. Well...as friendly as can be expected."

"I agree," Belle said, and kissed him. Hand in hand, they went up to bed.