Sorry it took so long, but here is the super long James POV wedding chapter, I hope you like it!
XOXOXOXO
Chapter 36
James
Mom and I got Sofia comfortable in our bed and made sure she was sleeping before joining my family downstairs.
Dad, grandpa Talbert, and aunt Tilly were glaring at grandma from across the island, and I crossed my arms in the doorway.
"I will not apologize for looking out for my family," Grandma Talbert spat as we all stood in the kitchen, "That girl is nothing but trouble,"
"Sofia is part of this family, and she isn't trouble; she's in trouble," Mom hissed, trying not to wake Sofia up.
"You have been trying to convince everyone of this stupid conspiracy theory for weeks, mother, and no one buys it," Aunt Tilly rolled her eyes, "Sofia is a sweet girl with a sinister past; that's no reason to dehumanize her in front of the entire family,"
"Her family has harassed her since we got here, she's been having nightmares about her brother, and she doesn't need my family adding to her stress, especially on the week of her wedding!" I growled, cracking my knuckles, "Sofia is perfect, and I don't want you here if all you're going to do is make her feel bad about herself,"
"Listen to me, James," Grandma Talbert persisted, "You can't trust her. Drug addicts raised her, and I can tell she's a drug addict. The anorexia, crowd anxiety, and this little black-out show, the signs are all there. She's going to get you hurt, either by the people after her or by her personally. You have plans to go pro, and I'm sure she loves the idea of getting her hands on your money,"
"Dad, make her leave before I do," I balled my fists, "We don't owe her any more explanations,"
"Please stop, Mrs. Talbert," Sofia squeaked behind me, and I spun around to hold her, but she shook her head, "I was forced to be a drug addict for two years when I was nine, and even though I've been clean for almost seven years I'm still suffering the effects. I can't gain weight because I was starved for six years, I can't sleep without nightmares because of the abuse, because I feel guilty for surviving the crash my brother died in that I caused, and because I was the reason two of my best friends and their parents were murdered. I've witnessed countless murders, I've attempted suicide multiple times because I hated myself, I have horrible anxiety which leads to panic attacks, and there are people after me because I know too much,"
Sofia took a deep breath, stepped toward grandma Talbert, and we all stared at her sadly.
"I tried to convince James not to bother with me, but he did, and they have all been helping me understand that nothing that happened was my fault. They sat with me in the hospital, got me on medication, and made sure I started therapy, which is more than anyone has ever done. I tried to convince James not to date me because it was too dangerous, but when I left to face Sam, he was the one that took him down because he loves me and wanted me back. I tried to convince James not to marry me until I got better, but I have a dress ready in my mom's room because he wants to keep me safe, he loves me even with my flaws, and I love James for everything he has done and everything he is. I can't change my past, and I understand wanting to keep your family safe; I want that too, but I would never hurt them or let them get hurt, and I am definitely not marrying James for his money. I love them too much," Sofia cried, staring at my grandmother.
I hated that my grandmother made her feel like she had to explain herself; I knew how hard it must be for her.
"I'm sorry," grandma Talbert whispered, hugging her tightly, "I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions; I'm just so worried about them,"
"I know," Sofia sobbed, "And it's okay. You have every right to be suspicious, but I swear I'm serious about this relationship, and I'm not a bad person,"
"How do you feel, baby?" I asked, kneeling in front of her.
She shrugged and looked around the room, "Sorry, mostly. I should have expected something like this to happen, but I didn't handle it well. I hope I didn't embarrass you guys,"
"Never," mom kneeled with me, "You couldn't have expected to be attacked like that, and I know you were already uncomfortable with so many people around. We love you and don't want you to worry about anything except feeling better,"
"Come on, love, let's get you back to bed," I picked her up and carried her back upstairs, "I'm so sorry, Sof,"
"Your grandmother cared enough to do a background check your sketchy fiancee," she half-smiled, "She's just worried about you; I think it's nice,"
"She called you out in front of everyone to try and get them against you; that's inexcusable," I frowned, laying her down, "And you're not sketchy, princess. Don't mistake fearmongering for care,"
Sofia nodded and stared down at the blanket.
"Can I get you anything, love?" I asked, sitting next to her, but she just shook her head, "You need to eat,"
"You know I'm not using you, right?" she whispered, looking up at me with tears in her eyes.
"Shh," I slid my arm under her shoulders and laid with her, "Of course I do, baby,"
"Right before I blacked out, your grandma said that I was an idiot if I thought a piece of paper was going to keep Sam from getting me back, and that was exactly what Seth told me in my dream last night. Seth keeps telling me I don't belong here, and maybe he's right. What if this is a sign that this is a mistake. You deserve better than me, and I can't let you get hurt, James," she cried, burying her head in my chest.
"There is no one better than you, Sofia. You belong here, right here with me, and us getting married is the furthest thing from a mistake. I will keep you from ever going back to Miranda, I will take care of you, and I will keep you safe from anyone who dares threaten you," I stroked her hair and kissed the top of her head, "I promise that the rest of this week is going to be stress-free and we are going to have the best wedding ever, my love,"
"Okay," she whimpered against my chest.
"Now, can I feed you?" I asked, running my hand along her back, and she nodded, "Good. I'll be right back,"
I moved her over and jumped down the stairs.
"How is she?" mom asked as I rummaged through the fridge.
"Insecure, scared, and trying to talk me out of the wedding," I glared at my grandmother, putting a plate of enchiladas in the microwave, "You need to apologize to the rest of the family and leave; I promised Sofia that the rest of the week would be stress-free and I meant it,"
"I'm sorry I meddled, James, but let me stay. You're my only grandchild, and I'd like to attend your wedding," grandma Talbert pleaded, "I'll talk to everyone and let them know I was wrong,"
"It's too late, grandma, and I'm sorry, grandpa, but the damage is done. Sofia means everything to me, and not only did you judge her unfairly and accuse her of being a gold-digging drug addict, but you also tried to turn the rest of the only family she has against her," I clenched my jaw and crossed my arms, "You didn't come here to see your only grandchild get married, you came here to bully my fiancee; go the hell back to Oregon,"
I grabbed the plate and a fork and bounded back upstairs.
"Here, baby," I handed Sofia the plate and kissed her before laying down.
"I'm sorry, James. I know how much you love your grandparents, and now I've destroyed your relationship with them," she frowned, poking the enchiladas with her fork.
"She destroyed it, love, not you. Don't worry about it," I assured her, taking her fork and feeding her, "Eat, please,"
Sofia nodded and let me feed her as I started a movie for us.
"Do you two have any extra stuff going on tomorrow?" Mom asked from the doorway.
"No, just school, why?" Sofia asked, pulling her knees to her chest.
"Meet me at the bakery at three-fifteen; I'm taking the rest of the week off from work. James, talk to your groomsmen and have them meet you and dad at the tailor at four-thirty; we'll meet you at the park after the fitting. Sofia, talk to the girls and have them meet us at the park at five," she said, going over her list.
"Okay, mom," we nodded, taking out our phones.
"I am so sorry you felt that you had to explain yourself to Francine. She was out of line, and she is the only one who doesn't seem to understand the severity of your situation," mom stated, kneeling next to Sofia by the bed.
"She wasn't entirely wrong; it's like Scott said, the longer you have me, the more danger you will all be in," Sofia sighed, resting her chin on her knees, "But I can promise that I won't hurt you guys, and I'm definitely not on drugs,"
"We're aware of what might happen, but we're also aware of what would happen if we lost you," mom shook her head and looked at me, "And you ignore everything that bitch said about you being a drug addict; we all know better,"
"Damn right we do, baby," I agreed, putting my arm around her shoulders and pulling her to my side.
"We love you, Sofia," Dad said, rounding the corner and joining mom, "You've been our daughter since the day you walked through our door; we will fight anyone who tries to take you away from us, including my idiotic mother, and we won't let anyone get away with making you feel any less than the wonderful girl you are," he took her hand and kissed her forehead.
"Thank you all," Sofia sobbed, "I love you too,"
"Dad and I are going to take Tilly and my parents back to the hotel; you two should try and get some sleep," mom kissed Sofia's temple, "James promised you a stress-free week, and we will make sure you get it,"
She nodded, and I wiped her eyes with my shirt, "We will. Thank you both," I smiled at them as they turned out the light and shut the door.
I held Sofia close as she continued to cry.
"I love you, James, and I'm sorry I tried to talk you out of marrying me again," she sniffled.
"Shh, don't worry about it, baby. Just know that nothing you could say will ever change my mind. I love you, and I know you don't mean it," I assured her.
"I don't," she shook her head, "I want to marry you more than anything. I want to be with you forever; I'm just so scared that my forever isn't going to be very long, and I hate to think what would happen to you if I die,"
"There is no way you're dying before me. We go out together or not at all," I pulled her on top of me, "I couldn't survive without you, Sof,"
She pressed her lips to mine, and I could feel the urgency in her kiss.
"I couldn't survive without you either, James," she rubbed her nose on mine, "I hate even thinking about not being with you,"
"Then don't, because it will never happen. I'll always be here, and I will track you down if anyone gets their hands on you," I pulled her to my chest, "You're my girl, and you will be forever,"
"Forever," she agreed, nuzzling my neck.
She sat up, and I ran my hands up her shirt, running my fingers along her sides.
She giggled, and I felt the goosebumps rise on her skin.
She tugged at my shirt, and I took it off as she took hers off.
Sofia laid down on top of me, pressing her chest against mine and closing her eyes.
"This is my favorite feeling," she sighed, closing her eyes.
"Mine too," I smiled, kissing her nose, "I love how you feel against me,"
"Friday night, you, me, Brent, Daniel, and Nick, my house, Bachelor party!" Garth jumped in front of Sofia and me as we crossed the parking lot.
"Seriously?" I groaned, and Sofia elbowed me in the side.
"He'll be happy to join you for whatever testosterone-driven festivities you have planned," she smiled.
"Sweet! Poker and strippers. Strip poker!" he belly laughed, and Sofia raised an eyebrow.
"You're seventeen, Garth. Can you even hire a stripper?" she asked skeptically.
"Oh shit, I'll have my brother hook us up if you're cool with it, Talbert's fiancee," Garth grinned.
"No," I shook my head, looking down at Sofia's clearly sarcastic face, "No strippers, just poker,"
"Lame, but fine," Garth scoffed, "What time am I meeting you at the tux place?"
"Four-thirty," I reminded him, "Don't be late,"
"You got it, Talbert," he nodded and ran off.
"What the hell, baby?" I laughed, squeezing her shoulders, "What if he said there would be strippers?"
"I trust you, but I'd also have an alibi for the smoke bombs that the girls and I would throw in his windows," she shrugged, smirking.
"That's my girl," I laughed, picking her up and kissing her, "Are you sure you're okay with me going?"
"Of course, baby, I'm going to whatever mock bachelorette party Vivian, and her mom has planned; you deserve a night with the guys," she giggled, kissing my cheek and jumping out of my arms, "I'm sure it'll be fun, and it will get your mind off the fact I'm not with you,"
"Yeah, like that's going to happen," I shook my head and grabbed her hand, "I'm going to miss you so fucking much, baby,"
"I'm going to miss you too," she sighed, leaning against my side as we walked, "It's a stupid tradition,"
"Agreed," I nodded, "What do you think you and the girls will do?"
"If movies have taught me anything, it will be a night full of chick flicks, charcoal masks, and non-alcoholic drinks that they still call by the alcoholic names," she shrugged, "Viv's mom planned it, so the variations might change a little. There might be board games,"
"That sounds way more fun than poker in Garth's basement. I'd totally crash it if I could," I groaned.
"You are so perfect," she giggled, jumping on my back and wrapping her legs around my waist.
I tried not to make a big deal about her willingly jumping on my back for the first time, but I spun her around happily.
"Have you chosen the song you're going to walk down the aisle to yet?"
"Yeah, but you can't hear it. I want to make the whole bride entrance special," she giggled, resting her chin on my shoulder.
"You're the bride, so of course it's going to be special, princess," I whispered, kissing the top of her head.
"You are so cheesy!" she exclaimed, throwing her head back in laughter, "God, I love you, James Talbert!"
"You are in such a good mood," I laughed, turning my head to see her smile.
"Fuck yes, I am; I'm getting married to you in three days!" she bounced happily, "I will legally and officially be Sofia Talbert. It's going to be on my driver's license, my college ID card; hell, I might even get it tattooed on my wrist!"
"You want to tattoo your name on your wrist?" I laughed, loving her enthusiasm.
"Mrs. James Talbert? Yeah, that would probably make more sense," she grinned, jumping down and using my arm to spin herself in a circle, "Oh! We need to think about the first dance too! I was thinking we use our song, but I am open to suggestions, my liege,"
"Our song will be perfect, princess, and I have a list of some other songs for the reception that I need to send Uncle Remmy. He's DJing for us," I smiled, pulling her chair to me in the classroom.
"What song are you dancing to with mom?" she asked, and I shrugged.
"She chose Do I make you proud by Taylor Hicks; what about your dance with dad?"
"Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman, I let him pick too," she giggled, "I haven't listened to it yet, though,"
"You might want to; it's going to make you cry," I warned her, "I mean, it's a beautiful song, and I know why he chose it, but seriously, listen to it,"
"I'll listen to it on the bus," she nodded, finding it on pandora, "I wish we could skip school and go plan," she groaned, tapping her forehead on my shoulder.
"Do you want to?" I asked hopefully, "I don't want you to go,"
"You, dear almost-husband, are a terrible influence on my academic record," she giggled, "But yes. Yes, I do; text mom to get us out of here,"
I grabbed her hand, and we ran back out to the parking lot, "I'll call her on the way home!"
"You two are ridiculous but fine," mom sighed over the speakerphone, "But only today!"
"Yes, ma'am!" we both laughed.
"We got our first shipment of decorations, and, fair warning, there are a lot of people at the house," she added, and Sofia closed her eyes.
"Okay," Sofia answered weakly.
"We'll be there in five," I stated, hanging up, "You sure you want to skip, baby?"
"Yeah. I want to get to know your family," she smiled, taking a deep breath, "I need to redeem myself,"
I pulled her against my side and parked into the driveway.
"Let me know if you want to leave," I kissed her temple, "We'll go to the park,"
She nodded and followed me out the driver's side.
"There's the happy couple!" Uncle George exclaimed, hugging us both, "Damn, James, I can not get over how buff you are! We were all so worried he wasn't going to fill out; he was so tiny!"
"I'm just glad he grew into his head!" Uncle Remmy called from the kitchen, "Yo sis, have you shown Sofia the scrapbooks yet?"
"Not yet! I'll go get them!" mom called, and I groaned.
"How have I not seen little James yet?" Sofia asked, hopping into the kitchen.
"There's the lovely bride to be," Grandma Newton smiled, kissing her cheek, "Don't let Francine get your spirits down, dear; we all think you are precious, and our James is very lucky to have you,"
"Thank you," Sofia hugged her, "I needed to hear that, and I'm very lucky to have him,"
"I'm lucky, you're lucky, we're all lucky!" Aunt Tilly exclaimed, laughing, and Sofia snapped her head toward her.
"You like Rocky Horror?!" Sofia exclaimed, and Aunt Tilly nodded enthusiastically.
"It's only the best 1970s cult movie EVER!"
"Right?!" Sofia giggled, "It's one of my favorite musicals!"
"We should watch it today!" Aunt Tilly grinned widely, "You're one of the only people to get my references!"
"I would love that!" Sofia nodded, and Tilly hugged her.
"James, I think they like me!" Sofia whispered as she came back to my side.
"They do, baby, they love you," I assured her, kissing her hand.
"Scrapbooks!" Uncle Remmy exclaimed, spreading them out on the table.
I watched Sofia's face soften as she looked at the old pictures of me.
"You were adorable, James!" she gushed, running her fingers over them.
"She's a keeper," Uncle George laughed.
"She's a liar. He was a silly-looking kid, but he grew up okay," Uncle Remmy laughed.
"Gee, thanks, guys," I rolled my eyes.
"Anytime, nephew," they high-fived each other and patted me on the shoulder.
"Sofia, do you have any baby pictures? We could do a slideshow at the wedding," Grandma Newton asked, but Sofia shook her head.
"I'm afraid not; I don't have any pictures of myself before I turned sixteen," she explained, continuing to look through the pictures.
Everyone went quiet, but Sofia didn't seem to notice.
"That's okay, sweetie. We can use the pictures you and James have taken together so far; I know there's a ton of those," Mom said in a warning tone.
"Yeah, I'll send them to whoever is doing the slideshow," I nodded, kissing Sofia's shoulder.
I looked over her shoulder and saw her lingering over a picture of mom, dad, and me at the Grand Canyon.
"Did you guys take a lot of trips together?" she asked.
"Mhm, they took their vacations from work together every summer, and we would go on adventures," I explained, showing her the family pictures from past trips.
"You've been to Disney World?" she gasped, "How was it?"
"It was so much fun!" Uncle Remmy answered, "We had our family reunion there back in '14,"
"You're so lucky," she whispered.
"We'll go for Christmas," Dad put his hand over Sofia's.
"And you're all coming to Hawaii for Thanksgiving; I'm hosting this year!" Aunt Tilly smiled.
"Tilly!" we all shushed her, "That was supposed to be a surprise!"
"Hawaii?" Sofia looked at us with her big blue eyes, "Really?"
We all groaned.
"Sorry," Tilly apologized, hanging her head, "I was just trying to make Sofia feel better,"
"It's okay; I was only keeping it as a surprise because that's where I had initially planned on proposing," I rested my head on the top of Sofia's, "But that ship has sailed,"
"It has indeed, captain," Sofia laughed, "I'm not sure how I feel about that long of a plane ride though, especially over the ocean,"
"No worries, love, we will go on shorter trips before then," I chuckled, wrapping my arms around her.
"So you're not mad?" Tilly asked, and I shook my head.
"Nah, Aunt Tilly, I couldn't stay mad at you anyway," I laughed, hugging her.
We looked at pictures, went through the decorations, and I listened to Sofia and Aunt Tilly sing along to Rocky Horror.
She seemed so happy, and I couldn't help but wonder what sparked the change in her from yesterday.
"Let's go to the bakery," mom announced, pulling Sofia and me to the door, "Meet us at the park at five!" she called, and everyone nodded.
We decided on blue velvet cupcakes, and I met dad and the guys at the tailor before heading to the park.
"The Sherriff and his deputies are going to be stationed around the perimeter, just as a precaution," Mom explained as we walked around the wedding site, "The caterers are going to be set up in the far pavilion with the dance floor, and this is where the ceremony will take place," she smiled leading us to a clearing next to the river, "We'll set up the chairs along here, there will be an arch covered in blue and green dahlias here, and the paper screen will go at the end for Sofia's entrance,"
"It's going to be beautiful," Sofia swooned, leaning against my arm.
"You're going to make it beautiful no matter what," I kissed the top of her head.
Everyone around us fake gagged, and I rolled my eyes playfully.
"Don't be so obviously jealous," I shrugged.
"I feel bad for your parents," Brent laughed, "They have to put up with the two of you together more than we do,"
"Yeah, but we get stuck with sighing Talbert all the damn time," Garth laughed, "At least when Sofia's around, he doesn't have to talk about her,"
"Agreed," our friends laughed.
"I'm glad to know someone sympathizes with us," dad chuckled, ruffling my hair.
"Yeah, yeah, whatever," I smirked, kissing Sofia, "I'm not going to apologize for my Sofia addiction,"
"Or me for my James addiction," Sofia giggled, hugging my arm tightly.
"Okay. Let's practice before the rest of us get too sick," mom sighed, pulling Sofia away from me.
We had our rehearsal dinner Thursday night, and our team won the game Friday.
I scooped Sofia up after it ended and ran to the parking lot with her, but Mom and Dad were waiting by my truck, blocking the doors.
"Did you guys even watch the game?" I pouted, "We won,"
"That's great; we would have been able to watch it if our son and daughter-in-law weren't so predictable," mom grumbled.
"It's one night, guys. I promise you'll be okay," Vivian pulled Sofia out of my arms.
"Come on, tails," Bridgett giggled, "Say goodbye to your prince and let's go party!"
"I love you, my prince," Sofia sighed, standing on her tiptoes and kissing me.
"I love you, my princess," I sighed back, trudging back to the locker room, unable to watch her leave.
I took a shower and reluctantly followed Garth to his house.
"Tomorrow's the big day!" Garth patted me roughly on the back, "How are you feeling, man?"
"I've thought about this day since I met her," I rubbed the back of my neck, "I couldn't be more ready,"
"I can't even imagine getting married yet," Daniel shook his head, "But you two seem like you're married already anyway,"
"Hell yeah, they do; you guys have Viv asking about our wedding now too. So thanks for that," Garth rolled his eyes.
"Haven't you guys been dating for, like, three years?" Brent asked, shuffling the cards.
"So? We're in high school. Most high school relationships don't make it in the real world, and I honestly can't see myself married to her," Garth shrugged, taking a drink of his coke.
"That seems selfish," Nick frowned, "Why don't you break up with her if you're just going to break up with her after graduation?"
"Yeah, it's not fair to her," I agreed, cracking open my water.
"Alright, alright, get your sights off me and my relationship. Tonight is about Talbert, and we are all super happy for you, man!" Garth exclaimed, grabbing his cards from the table.
"TO TALBERT!" they all yelled, crashing their cans together.
My phone vibrated, and I smiled when I saw Sofia's name pop up on my screen.
I hope you're having fun, baby! I miss you, and I am thrilled this is my first and last sleepover. I'm pretty sure this can be used as a form of torture!
Fun is a bit of a stretch, and I miss you so bad! Are they making you do those charcoal mask things?
YES! I make no promises that I will have a face tomorrow.
She sent me a picture of her in the mask, and I laughed.
For better or for worse, my love, you're gorgeous, and I would still love zombiefia.
You're too good for me. I'm calling off the wedding.
There's no such thing as too good for Sofia Talbert, and I'm still going, in case you change your mind ;)
I'll be the half-human in the pretty dress. I LOVE YOU!
I LOVE YOU TOO! I can't wait to marry you tomorrow!
Neither can I! Where are we on the stripper front?
No strippers, just poker.
Aye, aye, captain. I'll call off the bomb squad.
Wait, were you going to warn me first?
That depends.
On?
How far into the stripping you sat through, duh.
Fair enough.
Goodnight, my liege, I'll see you tomorrow night!
Sweet dreams, princess. See you soon XO
"Garth, you're in charge of the ring. Please, for the love of God, don't lose this," I warned, handing him the green box.
"You got it," he smiled, putting it in his pocket and straightening his tie, "I look damn fine,"
"Yeah, too bad this isn't about you, Garth," Nick sighed, "We need to leave in twenty minutes,"
"Do we have everything?" Daniel asked, looking around the room, "Ring, four groomsmen, one groom, yep I think we're good,"
"This isn't my wedding; why the fuck am I nervous?" Brent asked, smoothing out his sleeves.
"Calm down; you guys sound like a bunch of girls," Garth huffed.
"You said Vivian was talking about your wedding, right?" Nick asked, cocking his head to the side.
"Yeah, why?" Garth cocked his eyebrow.
"You might want to reconsider marrying her if she truly loves you; I don't think your options are going to get much better," Nick smirked, earning a playful shove.
"Shut up. I'm a motherfucking treasure," Garth snorted, "And at least I have a girlfriend, Nicholas,"
Nick just shrugged and walked over to me.
"I think you're the most relaxed of all of us, and it's your wedding," he laughed, pulling a piece of lint off my jacket.
"I'm good, dude. I'm about to marry the girl of my dreams," I smiled, "Let's go!"
We got to the park, and I marveled at how amazing it looked.
There were blue and green dahlias everywhere, blue and green ribbons adorned the white chairs, and the runner between them was covered in blue and green flower petals leading to the flower-covered archway.
There was already music playing as the guests took their seats, and I ensured the cops were in their places.
This day needed to be perfect.
I greeted my family members and found dad as my groomsmen went to take their places.
"Are you ready, son?" Dad asked as we walked to the front.
"I was born ready, dad," I nodded, hugging him and smoothing out my jacket.
"God, I'm so proud of you, James," he took a deep breath, "I'm going to go get your girl,"
"Thanks, Dad," I smiled, watching him disappear around the corner.
I stood under the flower-covered archway, trying not to fidget as I watched Sofia's silhouette appear behind the paper wall at the end of the aisle.
I Will Spend My Whole Life Loving You by Imaginary Future & Kina Grannis began playing, and the bridesmaids made their way down the aisle with my groomsmen.
Bridgett and Nick were the last to take their places, and mom moved the wall out of the way.
Everyone stood up, and my breath caught in my throat as the sunset hit Sofia's rainbow dress.
She blushed through her veil and bit her smiling pink lip, not taking her deep blue eyes off me as dad proudly walked her across the blue and green flower petals toward me.
The music ended, and Grandpa Newton motioned for everyone to sit back down.
"Family and friends, we are gathered here today to witness the marriage of James Talbert and Sofia Benton. Who gives this woman to this man?"
"Her very proud mother and father-in-law," Dad announced, shakily placing her bare hand in mine.
The fact she wasn't wearing gloves made my heart pound even harder than it was before.
"Raise her veil," grandpa instructed, and I gently pulled it back over her curls, staring into her sparkling eyes, "The bride and groom have written their vows, Sofia?" he nodded toward the vision in front of me, and she nodded excitedly.
"James Edwin Talbert," Sofia beamed, squeezing my hands, "You proposed to me twice, and I promised to propose to you on your birthday but ended up proposing to your dad instead. I hope you don't mind if I do it now, I know it's a little on the spot, but it's the last chance I'll ever get," she giggled, looking at Vivian, who happily exchanged the flowers for a blue ring box and helped her get down on her knee.
"Ahem," she cleared her throat theatrically and smiled up at me, "James, I sarcastically called you Football for the first two days after we met, even after you told me you loved me that first day, and you still asked me to move to Ohio with you. I spent three weeks falling in love with you and waiting for you to ask me to leave, but you never have, and even when I sort of left on my own you were right there to bring me back. You have been convinced that we're soulmates from the moment we met, and you prove that fact every single day. You are an amazing man and the fact that you found me had to have been fated. If you choose to accept my proposal, I vow to allow you to hang as much football memorabilia in our house as you want, I vow to eat your healthy food and to only sneak a little junk food without you knowing, I vow to let you buy as much unicorn stuff as you want, I vow to support you in every decision you make, I vow to take care of you as well you take care of me, and I vow to love you with all my heart until we get old and die together. Will you marry me, James?"
I put my hand over my mouth, not knowing whether to laugh or cry and nodded my head as she slid the ring on my finger and helped her back up.
"Sofia Dawn Benton," I took a shaky breath, "Thank you for your proposal, I'm pretty sure that was better than mine," I chuckled, "You did call me Football and try to push me away the first couple of days of our relationship, but I knew you and I were meant to be together. You are unlike anyone I have ever met, I had to get to know you, and I will forever be glad I followed you around that first day. I fall in love with you more and more every day, and you are the only woman I will ever love. You are my best friend, my complaining trainee, my biggest distraction, my person, and the love of my life. I vow to show you how much you mean to me every single day, I vow to continue writing down the reasons I love you in your notebook, I vow not to bring up the fact that your breath smells like candy when you sneak snacks, I vow always to be there when you need me, I vow to take you on adventures, I vow to make you happy forever, and I vow to love you with all my heart until we get old and die together," I turned to garth, and he handed me her ring, "I love you so much Sofia, and there isn't anything I want more in this life than to call you my wife," I slid the ring on her finger and stopped myself from kissing her.
"Do you, Sofia, take James to be your lawfully wedded husband in sickness and in health, for better or for worse, until death do you part?"
"I do," she nodded happily, not taking her eyes from mine.
"Do you, James, take Sofia to be your lawfully wedded wife, in sickness and in health, for better or for worse, until death do you part?"
"I do," I nodded, keeping eye contact with her.
"Is there anyone who does not believe these two should be married? Speak now, or forever hold your peace," grandpa asked.
I saw a flash of concern across Sofia's face, but she calmed down quickly.
"It is with great pleasure that I pronounce you two, Mr. and Mrs. James Talbert, husband and wife; you may kiss your bride,"
I pressed my lips to hers as the crowd cheered around us.
We led everyone to the other pavilion in a wave of bubbles, and Sofia sighed happily as the twinkle lights came to life.
"It's perfect," she breathed, looking around the decorated park.
I took her in my arms and ran my fingers along her jaw, "You're perfect, Mrs. Talbert," I brought her lips to mine and twirled her around before the photographer ushered us to the group for pictures.
I pulled her to the dance floor after we finished taking pictures and spun her around to our song.
"You look amazing, Mrs. Talbert," I whispered, picking her up and spinning her around.
"So do you, Mr. Talbert," she smiled, wrapping her arms around my neck.
"I love that you didn't wear sleeves," I rubbed my nose on hers.
"I didn't want to hide today," she kissed me, "I wanted to be myself when I married you, and I couldn't take any attention away from this dress."
She stepped back and spun, flaring the skirt out, sending shimmering rainbows around her.
Everyone cheered, and she took a bow before coming back to me.
"You seem so comfortable," I kissed her forehead, "You've been so happy since Wednesday,"
"I realized that I was the one making myself unhappy, and I refused to continue doing so," she stated matter-of-factly, "I love you, and I have nothing to be sad about,"
"I love you so much, baby," I sighed, looking down at her.
Our song ended, and I reluctantly handed Sofia off to my dad.
I stood by mom as we watched them dance.
"He loves that girl," mom sighed contently.
"You'd never believe he was the one who tried to kick her out a month ago," I chuckled.
"No, you would not. Sofia coming into our lives was the best thing to ever happen to this family,"
"It sure was," I smiled.
Their song ended, and they stood there holding each other.
Sofia ran to me with tears in her eyes, "I forgot to listen to the song first, James," she cried.
Mom smiled over at us and patted Sofia on the shoulder.
Dad gently took her from me and motioned to the dance floor.
I took mom's hand, and we danced to our song, looking over at our better halves the entire time.
Sofia and I sat at the head table with our groomsmen and bridesmaids and watched the slideshow of our relationship.
"You took so many pictures," Sofia whispered, amazed, "We've been together a month; how did you take a year's worth of pictures?"
"Documentation, dear wife, I'm a pro," I smirked, putting my arm around her.
"We need to address this later; I think you have a problem," she giggled, laying her head on my shoulder.
"Best man speech!" Garth announced after the slideshow was over, "Now, I haven't know Talbert very long, but there are two undeniable things about him. one being that he is a helluva cornerback, like seriously, he definitely deserves that national scholarship, and the other is that he is completely in love with Sofia. He spends so much time talking about her and texting her that I'm not even sure how he gets any work done at school. I have never met anyone as dedicated to his girl as James is. It's truly inspiring. This guy tackled a serial killer to get Sofia back. He makes the rest of us look like bystanders in a superhero comic, for real. I do not doubt that these two will be together forever, To James and Sofia!"
"To James and Sofia!" everyone cheered, holding up their glasses.
"My turn!" Vivian giggled, standing up, "I haven't know Sofia very long either, but the first week that She and James started Sydney High, Sofia started college classes because she's super smart, and James started sitting with us at lunch. Now, like Garth said, he talked about her non-stop. James would show us pictures of Sofia and tell us how absolutely perfect she was. We all thought he was exaggerating, but we knew he was serious after meeting this gorgeous, talented, insanely sweet girl. They have the most genuine relationship I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. James calls her every day before he eats to make sure she's eating too, he makes sure she's okay, and he always makes a point to tell her he loves her in the middle of their conversations. Those of you that know Sofia know that she is really shy; it took her two weeks to open up to the girls on the squad, but the moment James is around, it's like a switch flips. They were obviously made for each other, and I wish you both all the happiness in the world. To Sofia and James!"
"To Sofia and James!"
Sofia stood up and hugged Vivian, "Thank you for being my maid of honor, and thank you for being my friend," I heard her whisper.
"You bet, sister," Vivian whispered back, "I love you,"
"I love you too, Viv," Sofia sat back down, wiping her eyes.
"I am ruining this make-up," she groaned.
"You still look fantastic, love," I kissed her hand.
"It's time for the cake," Mom announced, pointing to the cupcake tower, and we laughed.
I led Sofia to the table, and we each grabbed a cupcake.
"You two know the drill," dad chuckled.
We nodded, unwrapping the cakes, and I held mine up to give her a bite, but she smooshed her entire cupcake on my face, laughing maniacally.
"Really, baby?" I chuckled, wiping my face off.
I narrowed my eyes at her, and she tried to run away, but I caught her, picked her up, and smashed mine in her face before kissing her cake-covered lips.
Everyone was in tears from laughing so hard, and mom rushed up to keep the cake off her dress.
"Are you hungry?" I asked, wiping frosting off her chin.
"Yes, taco me, husband!" she giggled, "I'm going to go sit with mom and dad,"
"I'll meet you over there, wife," I laughed, watching mom and Vivian help her maneuver her dress around the table.
"Here you go," I smiled, handing Sofia a plate.
"Chicken in wheat tortillas?" mom laughed, inspecting her plate, "Well, sweetie, you know who you married,"
"Yes, I do," Sofia smiled, happily taking a bite, "It's delicious, husband, thank you."
"You're welcome, appreciative wife. See, female parent, I found someone who won't complain about my healthy food!" I exclaimed, pointing at Sofia.
"Yeah. There's someone for everyone apparently," Grandpa Newton laughed.
"And we thought living with them before was hard to deal with; it's going to be worse now that they're married," dad rolled his eyes playfully.
"It was all 'princess' and 'baby' before; now all we're going to hear is 'husband' and 'wife'," mom shook her head.
Uncle Remmy started the music, and people began filling up the dance floor.
"Mmm! I love this song!" Sofia bounced up and kicked off her shoes, running as well as she could in her dress.
"She's in a good mood, huh?" dad observed, laughing as he watched her dance, "The last time she was this excitable was when we went to the lake,"
"I think she's relaxing," I nodded, laughing as she started dancing with one of my little cousins.
"Let her have this; we've got a month before the storm is going to hit again," mom patted my arm.
"Yeah. It's going to be a long four months," I frowned.
"Go dance with your wife. Enjoy this night; it's for you both," dad waved me off.
We danced for an hour, and I sat back down next to mom.
"She still up there?" mom laughed.
"Yeah, this is her thing. I think I know how to train her better now, though," I took a drink of water, "I've been training her like a football player when I should be training her like a cheerleader,"
"That's just like you," mom scoffed, "Thinking about training on your wedding day,"
"I am who I am, female parent," I shrugged.
"Yes, you are, male child," she rolled her eyes playfully.
"Since you don't have time for a honeymoon, your mother and I are going to give you two the house to yourselves until Monday," dad laughed, "Don't forget to feed the dogs, and there will be a deputy parked outside all weekend,"
"Thank you both," I nodded, hugging him and mom.
"You're welcome; now get out of here," mom laughed.
"Sofia!" I called, taking her attention away from dancing with my cousins and waving her over.
"Are we leaving?" she asked, sliding her shoes back on her feet.
"Yeah, mom and dad gave us the house until Monday," I whispered, and she giggled.
"To home, husband!" she called, pulling me toward the truck, which had been vandalized with silly string, and the back window read JUST MARRIED in blue and green window chalk.
"Did they tie cans to the bumper?" Sofia asked, skipping to the back, "Yep. They did!" she laughed, "Your family is the best!"
"Yeah, they're something," I shook my head, chuckling.
"Bye, guys!" everyone waved as I opened Sofia's door, "Congratulations!"
"Bye!" We called back, "Thank you all for coming!"
"Sofia!" Vivian called, running to her and pulling her away, "We'll be right back!"
I watched them disappear among the parked cars and emerge with arms full of bags.
"What are those?" I asked, trying to peek in the bags.
"You'll see later," Sofia blushed and shook her head.
"Have fun, you two, see you Monday!" Vivian winked, helping Sofia in the truck.
"Bye, Viv! Thanks again for last night!" Sofia called out the window.
I sped home and carried Sofia to the porch, "Welcome home, baby," I kissed her as we crossed the threshold.
"But, husband, I already live here," she laughed, rubbing her nose on mine, "Does it still count as crossing the threshold?"
"I am so done with traditions," I laughed, "We will make our own from now on,"
"Sold!" she pumped her fist in the air.
I carried her up the stairs and flipped on the bedroom light switch.
"Oh, I need the bags from the truck," she pointed out the door.
I put her down and ran back outside, quickly grabbing the bags and dashing back inside.
"I am so ready to get out of this dress," she smiled as I put her bags down.
She began untieing the corset ribbons, but I stopped her.
"I happen to love this dress on you," I tied the ribbons back, "And I would very much like to keep you in it for a while longer,"
I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her chin up, deeply kissing her.
"Did you have fun tonight?" I asked, kissing down her neck.
"Yeah, it was amazing," she purred, "Did you?"
"It was the best day of my life," I ran my fingers along her jaw and stared into her eyes, "I loved seeing you so happy,"
"How could I not be happy? I married you," she smiled, loosening my tie and unbuttoning my shirt.
"We don't have to have sex tonight, baby. As I said, we can make our own traditions," I rubbed my hands along her arms.
"I want to make love to my husband," she looked up at me with sparks in her eyes.
"Okay, love," I pulled my jacket and shirt off, tossing them in the corner, and went to remove my tie, but she shook her head.
"Keep the tie," she smirked, running her hands along my chest and down to the button on my slacks.
I pulled them and my boxers off, watching for any signs of hesitation from my beautiful wife, but she bit her lip and pushed me back on the bed.
I watched her remove her panties from under her dress, and I grabbed a condom from the bedside table.
My heart raced as she came toward me; her eyes were shimmering as brightly as her dress.
I pulled her dress up as she mounted me, and she leaned down, kissing me forcefully.
"I love you, James Talbert," she whispered, brushing my jaw with her lips.
"I love you, Sofia Talbert," I whispered back, sliding my cock inside her, "You are the smartest, sexiest, most beautiful woman in the world, and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you,"
She giggled through her moans as I grabbed her hips and bounced her on my lap.
She leaned back, grabbing my calves as she let me fuck harder into her.
I slid my hand up her dress, finding her clit, and made circles across it until I felt her warmth engulf me.
I picked her up and laid her on her back, pulled her legs around my neck, and reentered her.
I latched my lips on the skin below her collarbone, right above her dress line, as I pulsed inside her.
Her breathing was ragged, and her moans were increasing in pitch, sending me into a wave of euphoria before I came.
I pulled her to the edge of the bed, unable to contain myself, and kneeled on the floor.
I kissed her thighs and ran my tongue across her clit before dipping into her depth.
"James!" Sofia squealed, moving her hips in rhythm with me.
She came again, and I quickly exchanged my condom with a new one.
"Hold on," she gasped, this dress is too hot,"
"That is a very true statement," I smirked, and she giggled.
She took a deep breath and grabbed one of the bags from the floor.
I craned my neck to look inside, but she spun her finger.
"Turn around," she instructed, and I reluctantly did as she told me.
I impatiently waited as she moved around behind me.
"Okay, done," she stated, and I spun back around.
"Wow," I breathed, looking at her in the white babydoll lingerie, "Please tell me those girls didn't make you model for them," I growled, grabbing her hips and pressing her to me.
"Absolutely not," she laughed, "It was embarrassing enough opening them in front of Vivian's mom," she blushed.
"You are so fucking sexy, baby," I ran my hands along her body and kissed her.
I picked her up and pressed her against the wall, keeping my lips on hers, and wrapped her legs around my waist.
I went to remove the panties but quickly found them to be crotchless.
"Oh, fuck," I moaned against her mouth.
She wrapped her arms tightly around my neck and slid me inside her, moving her hips hard and fast against me.
I felt her suck and bite hard on the skin below my ear, and I could hardly keep myself standing.
I stumbled backward and sat on the edge of the bed as she worked me over.
We both collapsed in exhaustion, and I kissed along her face. "Are you okay, my gorgeous wife?" I asked, catching my breath.
"Mhm," she nodded, "I think we figured out my problem,"
"What's that?"
"I need to be on top," she giggled, pulling herself back on me.
"That is fine with me," I grinned, pulling her down in another kiss, "But for real, are you okay?"
"All I can think about is my amazing, handsome, perfect husband," she smiled, gripping my biceps, "I am beyond okay,"
"Good," I hugged her to my chest.
We took a shower and went to bed, falling asleep naked together for the first time.