In Kirikagure Chojoro was surprised at what he just received. He had to tell the Mizukage right away. Racing down the road to the Kage's residence, bursting the door open he sprints towards her office. Yelling for her with excitement, reaching the door he makes himself known and opens it.
"Mizukage! Mizukage!"
Mei heard him well, seeing the way he burst in. She didn't mind, though goes get him to calm down."Well. Some one seems to be in high spirits."she said lightly."I see you've received one as well, Chojoro."Looking at the fancy ivory invite with the Kanji of love in the corner in his hand. His name nicely written in golden ink. The same as her's.
He saw it on her desk."You have one too?"he points. A small tint of red comes. From his excitement. "I can't believe it. Are you going to go, Lady Mizukage?"
A soft chuckles escapes her."Yes. Why would I miss this. The real question is though, if the others will go?"She looks at her invite. Reading over the time and day of the event. The paper used was rather lovely, it was sharp but soft. Elegant, yet simple. Golden flowers as boarders. Dark silver for the writing. In the corner held a picture of the two soon be newly weds. It was a sweet one. They complimented each other well. Even the little girl in between them. Mei heard she had a child, so this was what her child looked like. Rather cute little one.
After so long, it finally was happening. Over in Iwagakure, Onoki along with his granddaughter and her partner had too received their invitations. In Kumogakure the Raikage and few others received their invitations. The Raikage was rather surprise about the announcement. He couldn't believe it. He remember her, yes, she was Shikaku's adopted daughter. The one who had now become one of the best barrier users he's known. She provided protection and assistance during the war. A very capable and powerful kounichi. One of Tsunade's prodigies. He's meet her a few times when you came to the village for mission related reasons. Who would have thought. He kept telling himself.
Everyone who was anyone received their invitation, to the upcoming event. Which after so long was finally happening. It took some push and pull. Yells and struggles. But, it was finally happening. The date was set. Theme taken care of, dress picked out. Seating arrangement mapped out. Guest count covered, a rather large amount would be attending. It was clear no one wanted to miss this for the world. Tears came before the date of the ceremony. Rivalry sparked on who was more worthy to walk them down the aisle. There was a bit of a fuss over who was to be the Maid of Honor. Some didn't care really, bridesmaid was just fine. The venue was picked out. Preparations on the way to make the day perfect, just as they had done for their own special day. And everything else. They finally take care of them for a change.
The guest had begun to arrive, some came a few days before. They where provided with rooming. All of them started to gather and take their seats. This was actually happening. You felt so nervous, inside felt so light and fluttery. Then all of sudden knotted and heavy. A wave of emotions just over swept you. Never had you thought this would actually happen. You've seen movies about it. Been to them, about at least four. And now it was to happen.
"Stop that!"Ino barks, flicking the top of your hand. Stopping you from fidgeting with your fingers"You're going to mess up your nails! I will not have that! Now, keep them...still."
She forces your hands down and back on the small cushion. She shoots you a look to not do it again. Or else."Calm down, Ino." Sakura tells her."May's just nervous, that's all."
"I know she is."Ino huffs."But I didn't come here four days before the whole thing, to have her ruin it ALL! Where is her dress!?" She yells impatiently."It's suppose to be here! How much more time do we even have? Damn it, MAY! I said stay still!"
One would think it was Ino's day to be married, considering how stressful she was acting. Barking orders here and there. It was true what she said, she did come four days sooner than others for this day. She was the second one to call you after Hinata, when she found out. Nearly screaming over the phone. She was so stoked about it. Promising to make your day very special. She wasn't the only one. The others did too. Hinata. Sakura. Temari. Tenten. Kauri. Kurernai. Tsunade. All of them put their best foot forward to make this day wonderful. Ino wasn't the only one who arrived rather early. Hinata came a day before her, Shikamaru and his family arrived on the same day. Sakura and the rest came either a day or two after.
It was really good to see them, after so long. Since you left Konoha a couple of months back, after moving to Sunakagure with Gaara and Hikari. You hadn't seen much of them. Though there where ways to communicate still. It wasn't the same really. Not like having them here. That was one thing you did miss about leaving Konoha, being with your friends and love ones.
Moving back to Suna after so long felt nice. It felt right. This was the place you first came to, back then. It was in a sense, in this world your home. It held very good memories. You still remembered the spot where you first arrived. The area Temari had taken you to practice on becoming a kounichi. Meet Naruto, Hinata and Lee. Ate out with Temari. Where she took you shopping for your first attire here. Kaito's old home. Just everything. Even if the surrounding areas changed a bit to look somewhat more modern. It was still the same Suna to you.
After accepting Gaara's invite to come back, pretty much move back. It took you about a week to get your affairs settled back in Konoha. Tearful good-byes. Not just from your friends but the village as well. Packing up everything. Kaito and Natsuki where rather surprised you wanted to move. Their response was a bit damper. You understood why they where not budging. Their life and team was here. Meaning they would have to start all over again, forming a new team. Moving just wasn't in their cards. And you did feel bad, not considering their feelings in this. Unsure really what to do about it, until Kakashi came up with a rather interesting idea. Let them stay in Konoha under his protection. And when they felt ready to go, they would join you in Suna. Of course you didn't like that. Being separated from them, but both of them assured you, it was alright. And they would be alright. Natsuki saying, they're growing up and you couldn't fuse over them all the time. Plus it was time you lived for you. Right then you realized the maturity in her, and that she was right. Kaito telling you, no matter what you still consider family. The others assured you too, they would keep an eye on them for you.
When you arrived back to Sunakagure, you did admit how nervous you were. It had been so long, you wondered if they remembered you. And to your surprise, the whole village was awaiting your arrival. Welcoming you back. They hadn't forgotten about you. A lot of the children from the Academy where happy to have you back. Tears of happiness and joy stream down faces. Hugs and embraces exchanged. It was like a celebration. You where reunited with Shura and his teammates, Matsuri and her teammates too. To be honest you considered them to be your friends in Suna. You where reunited with Ebizo and Baki. That empty feeling you felt seem to become filled, returning back. When Ebizo came to greet you, he expressed his joy to have you back. Saying the dessert has its flower back.
It took about a good half hour before you actually made inside Sunagakure. Children pulling you to play with them. Other introducing themselves to Hikari who clung to you for dear life. She was scared which came off as being hostile. This was a big move for her too. And adjustment. The first place you went to, your old apartment which was still left vacant. Kankuro told you, everyday for year people mainly the children would go to the doors and knock. No one moved in it, it became the only memory and important part of the village. There where so many memories, it was hard not to reminisces about them. You didn't go inside, it was alright. Your little tour guide of children and friends took you all around the village. When you went to the hospital, the staff those who knew of you where happy to see you again. A few gushed over you, fanboying and fangirling in your presence. Stating you to be their best Medic-nin of the village. That one day returning back to the village was just a lot to take in. Even when evening came, luckily though you where able to break away. Hikari needed to rest and so did you. Since you didn't want to move back into your old apartment, and you weren't married. Gaara told you Ebizo had offered his place. Which you accepted. You and Hikari ended up moving in there. For a couple of months before the wedding. During which she turned three.
Your relationship with Gaara improved. Though he was busy with his Kage duties he made sure to spend time you, even Hikari. The whole village could see how happy the two of you had become. Just like old times, if he couldn't spend time with you, you would go and have either lunch or dinner with him in his office. You became rather popular during his council meetings, making snacks and refreshments. One day when you and Gaara where taking a evening stroll through the village he showed you the flower he had planted years ago, from the seeds you gave him, that Ino gave you to give to him. And the flower that came out: A red rose. It's meaning love. You were rather surprise he kept alive for so many years, even some of the other flowers you had given him as gifts lined the shelves of his office, with his cactus. It felt nice being in his presence. He was very attentive towards you, even when busy he had someone take care of should you need it.
After a few months of being in the village was when proposed to you. It happened on the night you came to have dinner with him, Hikari was back with Ebizo, you always made sure to feed her and put her to bed before coming to Gaara. You weren't expecting it, just having dinner like usual. Towards the end was when he popped the question. Which of course you didn't get it first, considering the way he worded it. But when he asked again, this time be more clear you accepted happily.
All which lead up to right now. You still remained living with Ebizo till the wedding was over. Last night was the last day living with him. He was very happy for the two of you. You spent a good amount of time with him, like everyone else before this day. Since Naruto and his family came out first, you had more time to spend with them, though of course you and Naruto had your own time to spend together. Just the two of you. He made sure to make a day for it. Since there wasn't a raman shop, the two of you managed. He told you how proud and happy he was for you. Commenting on how stubborn you had been a few months ago, when he had to knock some sense into you. Which you of course thanked him for and apologize once again. You did spend time with Shikamaru too. Yoshino came and she cried her eyes out.
Looking out the window, watching everything happening, while Hinata and Temari helped you with your hair, a knock on the door broke your gaze. Turning around, the door opens and in came Tenten and Karui with your dress. Ino sighs heavily in relief.
"It's about time!"she tells them, hurrying them inside. Shutting the door."May! May! Come on let's get you in your dress."She tells you.
Bossy as every, Ino remained. Doing as she said, you get up and the others help you get into your dress. Being careful and delicate with everything. The sense of looking and being perfect for this day, seem more tiring being on the other side now. So use to getting things ready for others on their day, wasn't a taxing as yourself getting ready. Hours and hours it seem to take. You wondered if Gaara and the others where taking this long?
Over with Gaara, who was nearly ready with his Best Man: Naruto and Groomsmen. Consisting of Kankuro, Shikamaru, Lee, and Shima. All of them dressed for it all, the only problem, Lee's constant crying. The wedding hadn't even started yet and he was already in tears.
"Bushy brows. Seriously you need to pull yourself together."Naruto said slightly annoyed and uncomfortable."Or you're going to fill this whole room up with your tears."
Lee tries to pull himself together, but it was hard."I-I-I am sorry."he cries, blowing his nose that still dripped.
Getting a more uncomfortable, Naruto thumbs over his shoulder."I'm going to go...I'm just going to be right back."He leaves the room. Exhaling heavily. He had to just go see something real quick then he would be right back.
Back over with you, the others helped you get your dress on. They all stood there speechless and in awe. A few tears came some eyes. With everyone's attention on you, they didn't notice when someone came in, until they made themselves known.
"Oh wow! May, you look so beautiful."Naruto said, you look up surprised to him standing there. So where the others. You and Naruto look at each other, you could the pride and happiness in his eyes. And the reflecting memories of the past, bringing tears to his eyes.
Which he wipes away. You give him a bashful smile, looking away."T-Thank you. Y-You look nice too."
He chuckles lightly."Thanks. I kind feel underdress, being next to you. I just came to check up on you. Guess you're doing alright. I'll leave you to finish."He starts to leave.
"Naruto."you call after him, making him stop. Picking up the bottom of your dress, you step down and hurry to him. He turns back around to you."..."He notices the bottom of your lip quivering. And your eyes speaking for you. The wondering and worry.
Understanding, his knew what you wanted to know. He just didn't know how to say it. Or better yet what to say. Having two of the three you considered like a brother here. One was missing. You wanted to know if Naruto had heard any word. But it was clear he hadn't. Naruto's eyes apologize to you, watching your eyes drop hurt and disappointment. A good thing you couldn't cry, but it didn't stop the feeling. This was your wedding day, and the last thing you needed to be was upset.
He needed to think quickly, searching his mind what to say."Well, look at you."Kakashi said."Never have I seen a more beautiful flower."
You and Naruto find him standing there at the door, with his mask on dressed for the event. Smiling at you under his mask."Papa Kakashi."you greet him with a smile. He waves to you.
"I hope I'm not too early. Came to pick you up."he tells you. Kakashi was the one to walk you down the aisle for the wedding. Though of course Guy wanted too, and accused Kakashi of taking it away. Stating he was more a father to you than Kakashi. But ended up accepting it.
You had told Kakashi because out of memory of Master Splinter who gave the task over to him to watch out for you. It made the most sense. Which Kakashi accepted and was of course honored.
"You're a little bit early."Ino tells him. Coming over taking you away."We still have a few more things to do. Than she'll be ready."She sits you back down.
"Alright then."Kakashi excuses himself."Let's leave them be Naruto."The two men leave you to finish up, shutting the door.
Down the hall they noticed three people coming. Natsuki and Tsunade, carrying Hikari. The little one dressed for the important day. Her hair nicely done, with your brooch in her hair. Wearing a lilac dress with light golden designs weaved into it. Natsuki who still kept her short hair, dressed in a formal deep silver formal halter kimono dress. With a deep blue slash around her waist. With a bit make up on. A flower clip in her hair.
"Well don't we look nice."Kakashi complements each of them.
"Thanks."Natsuki said with a cocky smirk. Her eyes look to the close door."Their not done yet?"
"Give it a few minutes."Naruto tells her."They each want to put in huge amount of effort, May put into each of them. I better head back though. See you guys at the ceremony."
He leaves heading back to the Gaara and the others."We should head there too."Tsunade tells Natsuki."Come on. Let May know we took Hikari."She tells Kakashi.
He assures her he would, watching the three of them leave. Leaving him to stand and wait for you to finish up. It took about another hour before you finally finished, when you stepped out was stun and over come with a wave of emotions. He couldn't grasp each one of them. He saw standing in front of him, your younger self for a second. So young, innocent and bright. Now a young woman, a beautiful young woman. He would be giving away. And he couldn't be honored. He holds out his arm.
"Ready?"
The guest all in their seats, awaiting for the ceremony to start. Honored guest sat in the front. Kages in the front. Yoshino too, who was holding her grandson. Even Hiashi, Hanbi and Ko came. Who was trying hard not to cry. Guy sat the front. Sai sat with son. Kiba with Tamaki and Akumaru. Shino. Iruka. Even Konohamaru and his teammates. Shizune sat wtih Kuerani, her daughter, Hinata and Naruto's son, and Sadara. Tsunade. Choji holding his little girl. Chojuro along with Kurotsuchi, Darui, Killer B, Omni, and Akatsuchi. Even Shima and Fukasaku showed honored guest. At the alter stood Baki who would preform the ceremony. Next to him stood the groom, dressed in a exquisite deep crimson long sleeved coat high collar, Sherwani. With front patch and cuffs is embellished with zari, stones, beads and kundans of gold and lilac. And matching pants. Standing there calm and collected, but many could see he was trying to keep his nerves at bay.
This was actually happening, he couldn't believe it himself. He hadn't thought his life could end up here. With all the deep thinking he's done, to understand his feelings for his soon to be wife. The many times he missed out on telling her, well he didn't actually know how to tell back when they were younger. She was of a different world, transported here out of thin air. Falling right in the center of his village. It was very strange. He remembered her resting in the hospital he had her in, there she laid in bed. The strange girl. He didn't know it back then, there was something that began to develop between the two of them. He at first treated her like guest he felt responsible for. She was his responsibility. He felt the need to watch her. The kind of aura she gave off made him want to. He was afraid to put her in an sort of danger. Though he didn't really talk much with her back then, she would with him. She liked to talk with him whenever they just so happen to be up at the same time. Or coming to visit him to delivery him lunch or dinner, sometimes breakfast. She for some reason took interest and concern over him. It was just her nature he came to see. He remembers finding her longing and missing her old home and loved ones. Always trying to hide it and keep it away from others, putting a smile and ensuring others not to worry. He had to admit to himself he found her constant smiling a mystery. That is until he found out about her life. It did amaze him on the outlook she carried.
Looking at all the guest gathered here for his special day touched him deeply. They where here for him but he knew mostly everyone was here for her. And he couldn't be happier. His eyes carefully checking all the decorations, the lights hung like garlands giving an enchanting look and vibe. The gold and red flowers placed around and a few attached to some of the chairs. Nothing had to be out of place. Nothing could be out of place, no, nothing should be. Everything had to be just right. Perfect. He let her choose everything, how she wanted it set up. The many times she's put other before herself and pushed her needs down, this time it was to be reversed. Her needs would come first. He would spend all that was needed for it to happen. To his surprise he didn't have too. Others came together to help with this day, providing them with whatever they needed.
As he stood up there, he waiting attentively for the music to start playing. Telling him and everyone it was starting. No doubts crossed his mind, well maybe a few. But one thing he knew, he wasn't unsure. He knew this was what he wanted. How life would go on after this, he couldn't wait.
The music began, light and bright was the tempo, his eyes alertly look down the aisle. Expecting to see his bride, instead he saw coming out first. The Best Man and Maid of Honor. Naruto and Hinata. He dressed in a nice red tux, while Hinata wore a powder golden A-line gown with hints of lilac embroider design. Her hair still short. Following them came Shikamaru and Temari. Ino and Lee. Kauri and Shima. Kankuro and Tenten. Sakura. They sepereate and go to their respective positions, the men with Gaara and women on the other side. About a minute after them, out came Kaito dressed in almost in the similar manner as Gaara except without he high collar and long sleeves. The colour of his attire, the same red as Naruto and the others. Hair styled formal low ponytail. He held the two rings resting on the pillow and walking next to him, holding a small basket looking down at the petals in it. A bit confused on what to do, all eyes melt at the sight of her. Kaito was trying to get her to walk, but she wouldn't budge. She kept looking down at the petals. And started counting them.
"One, two, free..."she began. Earning chuckles from others. Which she heard and looks up. Seeing all eyes on her, she froze. Petrified.
Her eyes started to activate, noticing her mother was not present. Getting ready to cry, but tries to hold it in. Kaito does his best to calm her down, but she pushes him away lightly. Thinking quickly Hinata breaks formation quickly and hurries to her, to stop in her tracks Gaara steps down and makes his way over to her. Getting down to her level, seeing the tears ready to fall. He gentle wipes them away and takes hold of her small hands delicately. She looks at him scared, which he saw.
"M-Mommy..?"she whimpers to him. Wiping her eyes.
"She's coming."he said with a assuring smile. Holding out his hand for her."I've got you now."Her eyes look at the hand was offering her. Hesitant at for a second, before she does. With her hand in his, he guides her down the aisle with Kaito following behind. It was alright she didn't toss out the petals.
She stayed very close to Gaara, trying to hurry up away from the eyes. They reach the end and Natsuki comes and takes her from him. Though before Hikari sits down she gives Gaara her basket. Kaito shakes his head laughing silently. He reaches the alter, where Naruto and Hinata both take a ring. He then takes his spot by Kankuro. Now came the most important person of it all. The music tempo changed, to soft slow classical tempo. Mixed with harmonious and light tempo. All eyes turn down the aisle, awaiting the bride. Everyone stood in respect for her. Tears started to form and some began to fall. Smiles illuminated all around, but none as illuminating as the brides. Eyes followed her, each step she took was gentle and delicate. In a few eyes, they envisioned her younger self. Tears of pride and joy came down.
Student. Sister. Daughter. Mother. Friend. Best Friend. Teammate. She was so many, to others. And now soon to be wife. Gaara's eyes remained solely focused on her and her alone. No one else was around. He blocked them. She looked so stunning. Beautiful. He took in every single detail. Branding it in his mind. He couldn't believe how blessed and lucky he was right. Everything on her was perfect. Dressed in elegant and gorgeous fitted lavender long skirt sleeveless full body Sari. A sweetheart neckline. Golden designs embroidered and woven in. Her long hair in soft curls resting gently on her back, flowing behind her in the gentle breeze that blew. Little golden flowers spread throughout her hair. Her make-up done perfectly. adding more to her natural beauty already. She didn't need, he always told himself. She perfect just how she was. She looked so delicate and lovely. He couldn't wait to take her in his arms. Urging to just go down and get her. This was his treasure. This was his light, right here. Right now.
The distance between them became smaller and smaller. He could smell her heavenly aroma. It over took him, taking pleasure in it. Naruto couldn't help but smile behind Gaara seeing how in love he was. Moving from his friend to the bride. She looked so lovely. His blood sister, she was just breath taking. After all she's been through he couldn't be more happier to know she finally was going to find her happiness. He promised to protect her. Always. That connection between them, since the first day they met. It was strong and deep. He thought of everything they've been through. What she went through. The nights and times she would come over to have dinner with him. How he would drag her into doing crazy things with him. Back when she was in a sense naive. The two of them, where like two peas in a pod. He watched her grow. Become her own. Prove she was more than what others assumed. Fought against what she was, protecting others. Putting herself out there. A precious heart. He watched her suffer and have life throw so much at her. That many in her shoes would just be crushed by it. But she wouldn't allow it. He watched her stand tall. Even when all else went against her. Watched her mourn more times than he could count. Become a mother. Still hold that torch of innocence. That burned brighter than anything. That was her truth strength. Even as she grew, her view of the world did not derail her from it. A flicking flame in the harsh winds of life, he did his best to protect. Even after he married. Though he couldn't spend as much time with her, having his own family. Something that was taken from her. He was worried should she start to fade, seeing everyone else's happiness happening around her. And she was happy for them. She was always happy for everyone. To the point she began to fool herself. That she was happy too. Almost to the point she nearly missed out and lost today.
He remembered it clear as day. Never had he yelled at her that way, but how was he suppose to get through to her. When she would not see. He hated himself for doing that, but it was the only way. He just wanted her to be happy, like everyone else. There was no need for her to keep trying to increase everyone else's joy, pushing them forward, while she remained behind.
Now, he told himself, watching her coming down the aisle with Kakashi. She could have own happiness. She deserved it. No more punishing. The smile on his face, became bigger and bigger the closer she came. Tears forming in his eyes, he let a few fall. Looking to his side at Shikamaru, the Nara too felt the same. A warm half smile on. He was reminiscing too. Turning back, the bride reached the alter and Gaara went to her. Taking hold of her hand carefully. And led her to Baki. Though before she went, she turns around and hugs Kakashi tightly. Thanking him. He hugs her back with a tear in his eye. And first time told her, he loves her. And hands back to Gaara. The two face each other, both smiling at the other. It was clear they were nervous and happy. Four year. Four years it took for them to get here. It started out as nothing at first, but began to build into something amazing.
The long wait was worth it. The guest sit back down. Baki looks at the two. Smiling to himself and begins the ceremony that bind them as husband and wife.
"Friends, we have joined here today to share with the Fourth Kazekage, Gaara and May O'Neil an important moment in their lives." He starts."Their time together, they have seen their love and understanding of each other grow and blossom and now they have decided to live out the rest of their lives as one."He stops for a second looking around."Who so ever gives this lovely young woman to be wed?"
That was his cue. Naruto steps forward."I do."Everyone looks at him. He looks at you warmly. He clasp his hand over your's and Gaara. Squeezing them."I Naruto Uzimaki give you May O'Neil away. I'm so happy for you. For the both of you."he looks to Gaara, then back to you. He was starting to get emotional."You've been through so much May. You have the biggest heart I've ever come across. Putting others needs before your own. It's so amazing. You're amazing. I am proud to call you my sister. You've grown into a strong, beautiful and loving person. No matter your history. I will always love you no matter what happens. I know Gaara will make you happy and will do whatever he can to ensure it. Just try not to be so dense."He jokes, causing the others even you to laugh."But seriously, you need to be happy now. All of us up here,"he looks around."We all want that for you. So it's not just me that's giving you away. But all of us."he looks at the guest. Tsunade stood up. Followed by the rest of those from Konoha."See? But just remember this,"you look back to him."You might be starting a new life, doesn't mean we won't be here for you. You're still part of our family. Our village."He touches his forehead to yours. Looking straight at you."Love you, May. Gaara, I expect you to take really good care of her. She's very important to all us. Okay? I'm entrusting you with our flower."
"I know. And thank you."Gaara looks at him. Then to you. Squeezing your hands more. With that Naruto release his grip and goes back to his post.
"You have anything to say, Shikamaru?"Naruto elbows the Nara.
Who gives him a rather annoyed look. But smirks, turning his attention to you."After all this time of being a bother. You can be one to someone else."he scoffs playfully. Earning a few laughs and smiles. He walks over to you, looking at you deeply. He couldn't believe this was actually happening. This was to be his father's position, not his. But it was. The responsibility he was given over you. Was no longer going to be his. The thought of this realization was too much. But he held himself well. Raising a hand, placing it on the side of your face. You place a hand on his, both of your grip the others."..."He smiles and gently places a kiss on your forehead. Lasting for a few seconds he breaks it. He looks to Gaara nodding his head. Giving his approval.
Baki then continues. He gets to the vows. He starts with you first and you repeat what he said."I, May O'Neil, take you, Gaara, to be my lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part."You then add extra at the end."You have always been so kind to me, Gaara. When I first came to your village, you offered me a home. You have always been so important to me. And now you're the most important person in my life. I can't wait to begin a life with you. Thank you for loving me. I love you Gaara."You smile at him tenderly.
He returns your smile. Baki moves to Gaara who repeats everything he said."I, Gaara, take you, May O'Neil, to be my lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part."He adds his part with it. Looking into your eyes deeply."May. You always made me smile. Though I never showed it, your presence brought something new, something better in my life. I didn't understand it at first. All I knew was this feeling I always felt when around you. Not second went by that I didn't think about you. You always put me first with everything. Always worrying over me, when it was to be the other way around. All you ever wanted for me to smile and be happy. But the truth is, when I am with you. I am. A village is not home when someone is missing and May. Not having you here in Sunagakure made it empty. I stand here today before everyone to again tell you sorry. For everything. I want you know and everyone."He moves closer to you, leaving barely and inch apart."I will never let you go. Again. You are the flower of this dessert. You are precious and rare. It is my job as Kazekage to protect everyone. And it will be my job as a husband to protect you and be there. I will take care of you now, as you had with me. I will make sure you smile everyday. No matter what. You won't lose me. I will give you back the family you lost. We'll make one together. You, Hikari and myself. Looking into your eyes gives me strength and hope. I want you to look into my own and see a future."Those words, made you gasp silently. You look at him ready to cry. He places a hand on the side of your face, using his thumb to gently caress your cheek."You won't be alone anymore. I love you, May O'Neil. Thank you for being my wife." Tears of love slowly fall from his eyes.
With the vows done, Baki wraps it up."By the power vested in me by the village of Sunagakure I now pronounce you Lord Kazekage Gaara and May husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." All eyes watch the bride and groom kiss passionately."I present to you Lord Kazekage and Lady May of Sunagakure." He finishes applauding.
Everyone stands up cheering and applauding. A few whistles here and there. You and Gaara smile at them, then to each and kiss again.
The ceremony now over, it was time for the reception. Everyone came, it was nicely done as well. More than you thought. The fabric had to cost a pretty penny. But it was all worth it. You loved the flowers and nature theme. Hikari was brought over to you, she was happy to be in your arms. Everyone who get to you and Gaara came over to congratulate you both. Lee and Guy crying their hearts out, nearly covered you in it. If not for Tenten and Shikamaru who kept them at bay. The other Kages came over, Mei commenting on how lovely you looked. The Raikage too praised you and Gaara, stating Gaara choose wisely. Oonki congratulated you two, and even gave you a hug. Telling Gaara to be good to you or else. Ino came over screaming on the top of her lungs, a bit over the top, but she was just being Ino. Sai had to calm his wife down. Shikamaru and Temari came, who was happy it happened. Stating now the two of you actually being sister. Which prompt Ino to come in stating she was sisters with you first. They almost fought if not for you, who told them you consider them both. Chojuro, Dauri, Onmi, and Kurotsuchi came over. Karui and Choji too.
Naruto and Hinata came, she was so happy for you. More than anyone. Expressing her joy in seeing happiness in your eyes, since Neji. Naruto welcomed Gaara in as his brother. Telling the Kazekage he wouldn't have anyone better than him. Hiashi, Hanabi and Ko came over, Hikari was happy to see her uncle again. Hiashi accepted Gaara to take care of you and Hikari. To your surprise Ko offered to move to Sunakagure on behalf of Hikari. To teach her and help in her training, something Hiashi wanted for her. Gaara didn't mind and would make sure to make living arrangements for him. Tsunade, Shizune and Kuerani came over stating how happy they are with your marriage. Tsunade praising you as her student. You thanked her for everything, for taking you in and honoring your Master's wishes. You thanked Shizune and Kuerani too. Yamato and Kakashi came over, shaking hands with Gaara. Kiba and Shino too. Kiba commenting how lucky was to have someone like you. Telling him like many others to there for you. Natsuki and Kaito came both of them happy. Natsuki joking what she should call Gaara and she is now from a loaded family.
The reception continued, you and Gaara had the first dance as husband and wife. He was rather good. Neither you nor him eyes ever left the other. You laughed mostly. After your dance it was time for father and daughter, since you didn't have a one. You chose danced with Ebizo, many assumed you would have chosen Naruto, but dancing with Ebizo felt right. He kind of was like one to you. He was honored. After you came Gaara's dance, he danced with Temari. When their dance ended, he had another surprise dance. One with Hikari. It was so sweet and touching seeing them dance. He had her standing on his feet while holding her hands carefully and protectively. You could see he cared for her greatly. The way he danced so gently. The dance lasted for about a minute. Then raced back to Hiashi's arms. The dance floor became free for anyone who wanted to dance. And quite a few did. Killer B began rapping with Kaito and Naruto. Lee ended up joining them.
You shared a dance with Naruto, Shikamaru, Kakashi, Guy and Kankuro. Even Kaito and Konohamaru who told you he would be there if things ever went South between you and Gaara. But he was happy for you, seeing you happy was all he wanted for you. He gave you a kiss on the cheek, the very last one he would ever give. You told him you appreciated him and the bond the two of you had. You would not trade it in for anything.
Ino pulled you with her to take pictures with her, Hinata, Tenten, Kauri, Sakura and Temari. You mingled with the guest, sharing laughs and stories. Others started to address you as either Lady Kazekage or Lady May. The whole festivities went all the way into the very late night. The very last dance was between you and Gaara under star filled sky. He used his sand as platform rising you both up, so it was just the two of you under the light of the stars and moon. His hold on you was strong and close. He held you close to him. Reflecting his words, never wanting to let you go. And in his eyes, you could see he meant it. The two of you spin around slowly, with nothing but the sound of the wind and each other's heart beats as music. It was perfect.
Gaara led and you followed. Your head resting on his chest, eyes closed. His chin resting on the top of your head."May."he whispers your name."May."He hears a relaxed moan from you."..."He smiles softly to himself, lifting his head he kisses the top of your head deeply. This was love. This kind of love was different from the love he had for others and those of his village. Love like this was separate from all the others. It meant something deeper than he knew. Looking down at you resting. He saw his life. His life with you. All the tragedy you've been through. All you took on for the sake of others. His hand moves up your back, his fingers gently trace the Foot Clan's brand mark on your back. The mark that showed him and everyone the lengths you would go to protect them. All of them. Everyone. This mark had once been a reminder of the guilt he felt, but now, it stood for his desire to protect you. To always protect you. No more harm would come to you. Those days where gone now. He stops dancing and looks up at the stars. Promising to the Heavens he would do all he said.
You now were his flower. He kisses the top of your head once again."I love you. May."