Chapter 14: Promises
A/n: Hey! Thanks for the reviews; I was so eager to get them when I got back from vacation (which was quite fun, by the way. I had all these crazy dreams there- one of which involved my best friend meeting Sydney on a train, but for some reason I was the only one who knew that Jack was dead, or something like that. I had another dream that involved being trapped in a cave with a midget, but we won't go there. But if you want the whole story, don't hesitate to ask).
Ok, I went all crazy on vacation and did a lot of planning. I have the whole rest of this story planned out, and even some of the sequel. A lot is going to happen in a long period of time (I mean long period of time in the story), and I hope you all will appreciate the end results. But don't worry, there are still many chapters to go!
twin*muse: I cannot answer your question about Jack, for I don't even know the answer.
Ryanne: No cliffies for this chapter! It's a happy ending, for now... mwahahaha
Disclaimer: Don't sue me, it isn't mine, but a certain JJ Abrams'. Though I've been feeling quite anti-JJ since the season finale. I may just hold a grudge forever. (Or until he gives me Vaughn!)
* * * * * * *
I'm ready to tell you what's wrong with me, Sydney.
Sydney froze. It was the words she had yearned to hear for weeks on end, and yet she wasn't ready. She breathed heavily as the rain pelted down onto an algid windshield. Water was still dripping down her face; a bead splashing on her hand. Lifting her hand to wipe the remaining rain water from her eyes, she let out a shaky breath.
Why was Jack choosing now, of all times, to tell her this? Had he not better opportunities at home? Was there a specific reason he decided to tell her in a government-issued van in the middle of a Russian rainstorm? The answer was quite simple, though not obvious to Sydney: Jack had been preparing himself for this moment, and now he was ready. It had taken him weeks to realize that he needed Sydney more than ever right now, and there was no use protecting her.
After what seemed like an eternity to Sydney, she returned her father's icy stare.
I have leukemia. Sydney closed her eyes. Acute myeloid leukemia, specifically.
She couldn't believe at all what she was hearing. She blatantly refused to. The man that was never sick a day in his life... had leukemia? It couldn't be true. Although Sydney began to see a difference in Jack that she had not noticed as she entered the car; characteristics she only saw through her now teary eyes. He was thinner; his face had a gaunt look to it; dark bags were settled under his eyes; a light purple bruise was becoming visible on his wrist just under his watch; a softer presence evaded his usual stone-like face...
He began to continue. I suppose I should start at the beginning... He cast a desperate glance out into the foggy rain and sighed. It began when I was being tortured by Sark; I only remember because of the hypno-regression therapy.
~Flashback~
Jack groggily opened his eyes. He had blacked out again, though he woke up in the same room, with the same flickering fluorescent light. A sudden sharp pain in his arm alerted him that Sark was still torturing him.
Glad to see you're awake, he sneered. More pain for you, more pleasure for me. Jack clenched his fist, but quickly eased it as he found it further hurt his shoulder. Sark laughed. Now, what I've just injected into you will speed up the process it takes for leukemia to form. This chemical, he held up a now empty syringe, will severely increase the production of immature blood cells in your bone marrow.
Jack yearned to rub his shoulder; then to slug Sark. Why don't you just kill me now? he asked through gritted teeth.
Because I'd rather see you and your coworkers suffer.
Why are you doing this to me? Jack asked as an afterthought, moments later.
It was meant as a rhetorical question to himself, though Sark gave him an answer. It's all a part of Sloane's master plan. Years in the making. Well, years to create it, but it will be tested soon, I'm hoping. It's just easier on my part if you are gone for the results. Jack never got an explanation of the Sark/Sloane master plan – Sark had once again rendered Jack unconscious.
~End Flashback~
Sydney's tears much resembled the weather. Is that why... Why you haven't worked much lately? What were you doing in L.A. before you got here? Despite wanting to scream, she was filled with questions only Jack could answer.
I've been missing some work because I've started chemotherapy. That's what I was doing in Los Angeles.
Is it helping? Are you getting better?
Sydney, it's too soon to tell... she frowned at his answer and took a shaky breath. But I will need to be hospitalized soon, he added more quietly. The doctors were against me traveling here.
More tears began to rain down Sydney's face, and a few even slipped down Jack's cheeks. She lay her head in her father's lap, and as she cried, he comfortingly stroked her hair. They sat like that until she cried herself to sleep. Jack gently sat her back in her chair, where she curled slightly towards the window, but didn't wake. He spent a moment staring at his daughter's sleeping form before driving away.
* * * * * * *
Sydney woke up from an uncomfortable position in a plane chair. She blinked her eyes a few times before looking out the window. There were mostly gray clouds, but traces of ocean were visible in small empty spaces.
Suddenly she remembered Sark's note in her pocket. She checked to see if it was still there, and to her relief it was. She saw her father sitting across the aisle of the plane, behind Dixon. She hoped that everything her father had told her last night had all been a dream... A horrible headache arose as she saw her father's purple bruise on his arm. So it hadn't been a dream. This was the hell she would once again have to face. She put on a brave face, pulled the note out her pocket, quickly read it one more time – wincing at the He'll be in his place soon...' – and walked over to her father on the jet.
Jack looked in his daughter's general direction with slight hesitation before gingerly fingering the note and picking it up. After taking it, he placed it carefully in his briefcase. Jack was avoiding Sydney's gaze, which made her irritated. Hurt, she went back to her seat and stared hopelessly out the window. Will it be this way from now on? she wondered. Will he not want to talk to me at all? I want to help him.... so much...
She thought that at this moment she wanted nothing more to be held in Vaughn's arms, and again fell into an uneasy sleep, concerned for her father's welfare.
After what seemed like only minutes, Dixon shook her awake. We're starting to land, I just thought I'd let you know, Dixon said. He gave her a consoling look, for he knew that she previously had found out about Jack's condition. She replied with a nod and plastered a smile to her face. If anything, she least felt like smiling right now.
Dixon took his seat, and Sydney looked back to her father. He seemed to have taken an infatuation with the floor, though shot an occasional glimpse in Sydney's direction. He noticed during one of these glimpses that Sydney was awake and looking at him. He discontinued his floor infatuation and glimpses at Sydney and turned to stare intently out the window. He once again hurt Sydney's feelings. Why was he being so stubborn?! Sydney had many questions to ask him, and he was rejecting her presence completely. Her fear and pity quickly turned to anger. She felt her cheeks redden, and immediately she was ashamed of herself. He was the one with the life threatening disease, why was she making this about her? She tried to clear her head of these thoughts and decided that after her Vaughn would comfort her, she would leave him a message. That was the only idea she had right now; well, that or wait for him to come around. She decided against the latter, however, because she thought Jack could be dead before he came around.
On the other hand, what if he waited until he was too sick before coming around? She couldn't risk them coming to terms on his death bed... Oh! Cancer was just so frustrating! She sighed heavily and gazed out the window just as they landed on the ground. Yes; leaving a message on his machine would be the best solution. She could always get him with that. And no matter what, she would find a way to confront him.
These thoughts captivated her head as she drove home in silence and was greeted by Vaughn as she walked in the door. From the look of deep thought and concern on Sydney's face, Vaughn knew something was wrong.
Syd, is something the matter? he asked, pulling her to the couch after she set her luggage in the bedroom.
Can you just hold me now, Vaughn?
He nodded and took her in his arms. He became quite worried when she called him Vaughn.' She hadn't done that in nearly a year. This meant she was either scared, angry, confused, or worse: all three. He gently kissed the top of her head.
My father and I talked, she said finally, after a a minute or two of cuddling. Vaughn, not wanting to push her, waiting a while before she spoke again. The sound of her voice cracked and tears began to trickle down her face. He has leukemia! He squeezed her closer to his body, and let her cry into his shoulder.
He heard her let out a shaky sigh. I don't know what to do! He wouldn't talk to me at all on the plane ride back... I'm so confused, Vaughn, and scared, and... angry! (yup- there were those emotions). She sighed again. I... I don't mean to be angry...
Sh, sh, it's okay, Vaughn cooed as Sydney began another sobbing fit.
No! It isn't okay! It could never be okay again! a choleric Sydney yelled. She tried to calm herself, but her anger was building up. What if he dies? Vaughn, I'm not ready for him to die on me.
Sydney took several heavy breaths to even out her tears, and it was slowly calming her down. She leaned back in Vaughn's chest, waiting for him to speak.
I wasn't ready for my father to die, either, he began quietly. I didn't get any time to spend with him before he was gone... I just had to deal with the fact that the last time I saw him we were eating breakfast, completely unaware of his future. He put his hand to Sydney's chin, and turned her head so she was looking directly in his eyes. Syd, promise me that you'll spend time with him. Promise me that you won't waste a single day without him. Promise me you won't go a day not thinking of or praying for him. But most of all, promise me you'll give him all you love. Celebrate the life he has left; don't dread what might come.
It is going to be very difficult at times, he continued, and sometimes you'll want to give up. But don't. Never give up your hope, Sydney.
Though her lip still quivered, her tears had subsided. She leaned forward and gave her fiancé a lingering passionate kiss. she whispered sincerely, as she wrapped her arms tightly around his body. I know I couldn't do this without you.
I think we should both take sick days tomorrow... Just to relax, and let this settle in our heads, Vaughn suggested.
I'll go for the day of relaxation, though I'm not sure if the idea will ever settle.
Vaughn frowned, and kissed the top of Sydney's head. They spent the rest of the evening in silence until the next day.
* * * * * * *
I just feel like running, Sydney declared two hours after she ate the pancakes Vaughn made her as an attempt to cheer her up. Apparently, he had no say in her decision to run, for she was out the door before he could respond.
Sydney started at a brisk walk, then increased her speed to a slow jog, then a faster jog, then a near sprint. She didn't know where she was going; she was simply going where her legs would carry her.
She had been going for ten minutes when she realized the direction in which she was going. Within another seven minutes she had stopped at the bottom of her father's driveway. His car was still there...
Panting for breath, she slowly made her way towards the door. Her shaking hand reached for the doorknob, but Jack opened the door before she could grab it. Sydney had not expected him to open the door on her, and her face held an expression that looked as if her hand had been caught in the cookie jar. They stood awkwardly in that position for many prolonged seconds before Jack beckoned Sydney inside.
He sat down on the couch and stared at the floor for a moment in deep thought. I knew you'd be coming along soon, he said finally. Do you need some water?
Sydney quickly shook her head and sat across from him in the large leather chair. Dad, we really need to talk.
He took several glances from the floor and back to Sydney before saying, I know... And I apologize for my behavior on the plane. It was quite childish of me.
Sydney, I've been thinking excessively since I was diagnosed. I thought that I could protect you from the truth. I should have realized sooner that I've never been able to that successfully... What I'm trying to say is you deserve more than anyone to know everything about my condition. You should have been to first to know, and I'm also sorry for that.
Sydney had caught her breath after her run, though now she was holding it. Had she ever known her dad to come around this quickly? This was quite unusual, and she didn't know how to react.
She could only do what she was thinking. Don't die on me, Daddy, she said, running to pull him into a hug. Don't leave me yet, please.
I can't promise you anything, he muttered quietly. A distant look enveloped his eyes as his daughter gazed up at him, concerned.
Please, Dad, can you make me one promise? Sydney pleaded not only with her statement, but with her eyes as well. If he couldn't promise his life, then he could surely promise this.
I'll try... What is it?
I want you to promise me that you'll walk me down the aisle.
Jack didn't know how to respond. His first reaction was to laugh – he had expected her request to be something he couldn't attain – though as he noticed, his daughter seemed extremely uneasy about the subject. He decided to smile as best he could right now, and nod. Of course, he added for good measure, I promise.
A look of relief and content eased onto Sydney's face. She beamed momentarily at her father. While her simpler needs had been addressed, there was still much for her to learn of Jack's cancer. She paused for a moment. I still don't know what to expect.
Jack frowned. He was hoping they would not need to discuss his health any further, but apparently Sydney was not yet satisfied. Quickly he realized he was being hypocritical of what he previously said; ...I thought that I could protect you from the truth. I should have realized sooner that I've never been able to that successfully... What I'm trying to say is you deserve more than anyone to know everything about my condition...' He sighed. The doctors have been telling me all these symptoms of the chemotherapy, he began, though they are so varied and it's too early to tell how I'll react.
That's not exactly what I meant... How long... do.... do you have to live?
Jack swiftly averted his eyes. Of all things for her to mention, this was the one question he wished to avoid the most. Well, Sydney, I have acute myeloid leukemia –
Yes, but you've already told me that!
– which means that though I don't seem to be notably ill, I will get worse soon. Sydney's mouth formed a tight o' and she fell silent. On a lighter note, there's the chemo that might help, and if I reach a certain low point, there's always a bone marrow transplant. Jack could tell his answer was becoming sufficient in Sydney's mind. So I can't give you an exact answer. Sydney nodded glumly.
When do they think you'll be permanently hospitalized?
Six to eight weeks.
This time period seemed absurd to Sydney, but the doctors must know what they are dealing with. She nodded again. They sat for a minute or so in a deafening silence. Well, Dad, Michael's probably worried about me, so I better head home now. She stood up, he did the same, and they hugged good-bye. As Sydney let go, she whispered clearly, in his ear. With one last smile, she left the house she used to call home and began her jog back to Vaughn.
* * * * * * *
Vaughn greeted as she panted into the door. Forrest Gump called, he wants his line back. He noticed the weak grin on Sydney's face. So, where did you go? He had a prediction...
I went to go see my father. He was confirmed. I think we're back on good terms. Er, well, good terms for us. She smiled. And that's making me feel a little better about this, but I'm tired of talking about cancer now. Let's do something... just for us. Oh yeah, what does Mr. Vaughn want for his upcoming birthday?
Mr. Vaughn wants a Mrs. Vaughn!
We can't plan a wedding in two weeks! Plus there's Thanksgiving to think about too, she countered.
Does that mean we'll be getting married in December? I mean, I know you want to make sure your dad will be there.
Sydney thought out loud. They did already know where they were holding it, they just needed dresses, tuxes, flowers, a cake, invitations... And early December would give her father a great bit of possibility. All right. December. Wow, we have so much to do in, like three weeks.
* * * * * * *
And so the wedding plans commenced, and finally December thirteenth rolled around. It was the rehearsal dinner; the last time Sydney would see Vaughn before the wedding. Francie thought having the rehearsal dinner on Friday the thirteenth was a bad omen, but Sydney ignored her.
You're my maid-of-honor! You're supposed to tell me that nothing will go wrong, Sydney told her. Stop, you're going to make me freak out!
Quit fussing, you have to say good-bye to lover boy over there, Francie tilted her head in Vaughn's direction. Sydney pouted. Why did he look so tempting the night she couldn't be with him?
She stepped closer to Vaughn. The closer she got, the temptation became worse and worse. His hair was gelled in exactly the messy way she liked it; his tight black shirt framed his muscles; his masculine charm was unbearable as he raised one eyebrow and smirked to the side when he saw Sydney.
I guess this is our good-bye, he said. She sprang her arms around his neck as if she would never see him again, and smothered his face in light kisses.
I love you, she whispered. What if Francie was right? she thought. Friday the thirteenth, what had we been smoking? Something terrible is going to happen tonight, I know it.
I love you too. Is something wrong, sweetie?
What? Oh, no, it's nothing. See you tomorrow, she sighed.
I can't wait. His eyes twinkled. He was suddenly jerked away by a clearly disgusted Weiss. Sydney heard him mutter something about two love sick kids' as he was pulled away.
She chuckled to herself and left with Francie. She was going to stay the night with Francie and Will in their old apartment, and Vaughn was staying with Weiss. Somehow, she thought she had the better end of the deal. She was surprised that Francie didn't mind housing all the dresses and the cake (which was three layers and made by Francie), but she simply stated that it was duties of the maid of honor.
The three spent most of the evening talking, well, Francie and Sydney did most of the talking while Will sat, smiled, and nodded. Finally everyone became sleepy and went to bed. Sydney, however sleepy, couldn't fall asleep. It was just anticipation for the wedding, she told herself, though not believing it. The thought of something horrible happening on Friday the thirteenth was haunting her.
Soon December the fourteenth arrived. The next thing she knew light was pouring into her room, stinging her eyelids. A cold spot greeted her, causing her to remember a lonely night without Vaughn. Get up! It's wedding day, Francie smiled, her hair already in curlers. Will's gone to meet up with Michael and Eric.
She yawned. God, what time is it? She glanced at the clock near her bed. Ten o'clock! Francie, you were supposed to wake me up a long time ago.
Well, I figured you could use the extra sleep. And besides, I work better under pressure. Come on, let me start on your hair.
Though quite reluctant to leave a comfy bed, she was eager to see Vaughn. She needed to see her love just to be sure that nothing bad had happened on Friday the thirteenth. Finally after getting both their hair and make-up done, they headed for the church where they would change into their dresses.
After helping Sydney slip into her dress, Francie went to go greet the wedding guests. Sydney sat herself in front of a mirror and pulled out a familiar velvet box that held her mother's earrings. Just as she slid them onto her earlobes, she saw her mother's reflection in the mirror out of the corner of her eye. She ripped her head behind her, but found no one. When she looked back in the mirror, she swore she saw her mother again. But with another look, it was not her mom, but herself. It was as if putting on her mother's earrings showed how much she actually resembled her mom. Sydney never realized their features where so similar before... It must've driven Dad crazy sometimes, she thought.
There was a knock at the door. Come in, she said quickly, shaking her from her thoughts.
It was Will. he said, smiling. You look so beautiful.
Thank you, she said as she fastened the back of one of the earrings on. She noticed a weird look on his face. What's up?
Um, I really don't know how to tell you this, but, Syd, your dad isn't here yet... Will mumbled, averting his strikingly blue eyes.
What? Well, where is he? Agh, where is my phone?!? She scrambled to find her cell phone. Will retrieved it for her from her purse. Sydney dialed her dad's house as quick as she could without fumbling her fingers. She stood up and paced around the room as the ringing echoed in her head. Finally she got the answering machine. she hissed under her breath. She thought for a moment and tried his cell phone, yet again nearly fumbling her fingers. She had not noticed that Francie, James (Francie's new boyfriend- the new chef at her restaurant), and Weiss had entered the room.
a deep voice grumbled from the phone.
Sydney shouted, almost relieved. Where are you? Are you running late? The others began listening intently to Sydney's side of the conversation.
Actually, Sydney, no... I'm...
What, Dad?
There was a long pause. I know I made you a promise, Sydney, but it looks like I'm going to have to break it...
What's wrong? Where are you?
I'm in the hospital. Tears began to well in his daughter's eyes. One of her worst nightmares had happened. I collapsed last night after my chemo session. They felt it was best if I stayed overnight... And it looks like I may be here permanently.
No, no, no, no, no... Sydney muttered as she toppled into her chair. Why didn't you call me when it happened? She burst at him between her now falling tears.
I assumed you'd have a hard time sleeping before your wedding, and I didn't want to worry you, Jack said, with a rather guilty hint trailing in his voice.
But you promised! was all she could say before her crying took over her voice.
Sydney, believe me, I fought with the doctors on this one. There is no place I'd rather be than with you right now. I've never been more sorry in my life...
Daddy, you promised! she managed to mumble out between sobs.
I know, I promised, but it doesn't look like I'll be able to walk you down the aisle anymore. Jack's voice was truly sorry, though Sydney could not notice it.
No, you won't! And you won't even be here! Dad, I know our relationship hasn't been the greatest, she said, now as her tears slowed and turned more to anger, but I always thought you'd be here at my wedding to walk me down the aisle, no matter what! She screamed, but not too loudly, more as a cry of distress. Now you aren't even going to be here at all. God, I hate Sark for what he's done to you!
Sydney, listen to me. I love you so very much. And I know I won't be able to walk with you and hand you off to Vaughn, so I will tell you this now. Sydney heard his voice begin to strain as he spoke. I know I haven't always been the best father. I wish I could better myself for my past mistakes, but I don't think I need too, sometimes. You turned out perfect, Sydney. Even if I turned back time and could be there for you during your youth, you'd still be today my perfect, precious Sydney. I'm so proud of you. In everything you've ever done, I've always taken pride in you, don't forget that. And I'm very proud that you've found a man like Vaughn, who I know will treat you with great love and respect. And you must never forget that I love you. And though I won't be there today, promise you'll think about me. Please, that is all I ask.
Sydney was silent for a long moment. Her dad had truly touched her. She could never think of a time when he had ever said things like this to her. Though she was extremely disappointed that he broke his promise, it was almost a good exchange to get his speech in return. In everything she did, he was proud, and he always loved her. What more did Sydney need? Of course I will, Daddy. I love you too.
I better let you go. If I am correct, someone has to be married soon. Sydney could feel a slight blush rise in her cheeks. Good-bye, Sydney.
Bye, Daddy. She ended the phone call and slowly turned to face the others. They all held a look of concern on their faces. My dad isn't going to be able to walk me down the aisle after all. He fell last night, and now he's being hospitalized. Can one of you go see if someone has a video camera to tape it for him?
Weiss stood up. I'm on it, he said, leaving the room.
Sydney smiled sadly at Francie. I screwed up your wonderful make-up job.
Francie simply laughed at her best friend. It's okay, honey, nothing a little touching up won't fix. As she began to fix Sydney's make-up, she said, I have an idea. Why doesn't Will walk you down the aisle?
Both women turned to look at Will, who was found to have frozen on the spot. he asked, the color draining from his face. Are you sure?
Yeah, I think it's a good idea, France. Oh, please, Will, will you walk me down the aisle?
I... I mean, oh, I don't know, it doesn't seem right... he stuttered. Sydney gazed at him with pleading eyes. What? It'd be weird! That's the sort of thing a father is supposed to do.
And that's what we're missing, so we choose you to be the replacement, Francie said matter-of-factly.
Will still looked skeptical. Sydney said, I've known you since college, and you're one of the best friends I ever had. Sure, we've had our weird moments... she was suddenly reminded of an awkward kiss several years ago, but we're still best friends. I'd be incredibly honored if you walked me down the aisle.
Will slowly glanced from Francie to Sydney and back again. Okay, okay. Sydney and Francie beamed at each other. But only because your dad is sick and stuff. This doesn't mean you guys think of me as a father figure or anything, does it?
Sydney and Francie said in unison, joking, of course.
Well, come on, we've got a wedding to get started. I'll go tell the minister we're all ready, said Francie. Everyone left the room except for Sydney. She took one last glance in the mirror, seeing if she could draw any strength from her reflection as if she was her mother. Finally she sighed contentedly, grabbed her bouquet, and headed out of the room to the foyer just outside the church.
Weiss leaned back from next to Francie. Bridgette has a camera.
Sydney smiled, nodded, and took Will's arm. The music began and Francie and Weiss proceeded to walk. When they got near the end of the red carpeted aisle, the butterflies began to flutter about Sydney's stomach. She glanced quickly at Will for support.
What? Is my fly open?
she giggled. She was expecting a fatherly comment, but then again, she was with Will. She became glad that he could calm her so easily. Let's get me married.
Sydney and Will walked through the doors and began down the aisle. Suddenly all images around Sydney became obscure. The only thing that was completely visible to her was none other than Vaughn. She didn't noticed that everyone was now standing. She didn't see when she walked by the Dixons or Marshall, Kendall and his wife, Bridgette Vaughn and the camera, Emily Sloane, James, Francie, or Eric Weiss. Vaughn didn't realize that Will was walking her down the aisle. All they saw was each other.
Sydney soon found herself holding Vaughn's warm hands and staring into his endless green pools of eyes. All sounds around her were dissipating until she heard:
Sydney, do you take Michael to be your lawfully wedded husband?
I do, she said strong and clearly.
Michael, do you take Sydney to be your lawfully wedded wife?
I do, he replied back with the same tone in his voice.
If anyone has a just cause why these two should not be married, speak now or forever hold your peace.
Silence rang so loudly it reverberated of the walls and ceiling, and echoed out the bell tower. Sydney was suddenly reminded of a dream she had last night: She dreamt that Weiss stepped forward at this time and said in a soap-opera voice, I'm the father of her sister's cousin's aunt's baby! Oh yeah, and he was wearing a bunny suit too. Sydney smiled at the thought but regained composure quickly.
Repeat after me. I, Sydney Ann Bristow.
I, Sydney Ann Bristow.
Take thee, Michael Christopher Vaughn.
Take thee, Michael Christopher Vaughn.
To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer for poorer, till death do us part.
To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer for poorer, till death do us part.
Michael, repeat after me. I, Michael Christopher Vaughn.
I, Michael Christopher Vaughn.
Take thee, Sydney Ann Bristow.
Take thee, Sydney Ann Bristow.
To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer for poorer, till death do us part.
To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer for poorer, till death do us part.
We will now exchange the rings. Everyone's faces turned to look at Weiss, who at first held the expression of What'd I do?' but then realized where he was, and dug for the rings in his pocket. When he handed them over, a look of relief swept across his face. His only job had been completed.
Say together as you put them on, With this ring, I thee wed. A token of my love and fidelity, forever.
With this ring, I thee wed. A token of my love and fidelity forever, Sydney and Vaughn said in unison, each slipping on their rings without losing eye contact.
May I present Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vaughn. Everyone in the church smiled broadly. You may kiss the bride.
Vaughn lifted the veil with eager fingers; he had wanted to kiss Sydney since the moment he was taken from her last night... Their lips finally met, and a cheer erupted from everyone present. When they pulled apart, Vaughn whispered, We did it.
Yeah, we did. A single tear trickled down her cheek. They recessed down the aisle, followed by Francie and Weiss, then everyone else and headed for the reception.
* * * * * * *
It wasn't another hour or so until Sydney and Vaughn shared their first dance, eaten Francie's beautiful three tier cake, and listened to Weiss's sweet (but corny) best man toast. The guests were slowly leaving, and all the people that remained were Sydney and Vaughn (who were dancing still), Bridgette Vaughn, and Francie, Weiss, and Will. (James ironically had to leave for work). Occasionally someone would cut into Syd and Vaughn's excessive dancing, but they would always return to each other's arms.
After Sydney returned to Vaughn after dancing with Weiss, and Vaughn finished dancing with his mom, Vaughn greeted his wife with an enchanting kiss.
God, I missed you so much last night, he said. I woke up, and my bed was all cold, and instead of a good morning kiss, I got a good morning dog lick from Donovan.
Still better than a good morning Hi-let's-curl-your-hair-and-get-a-message-from-your-dying-father.
True. Oh, Sydney, I'm so sorry. I can't believe he's in the hospital already.
She sighed. Neither can I. At least your mom video taped it for him. I'll have to thank her before she leaves.
Or before we leave. Our flight for our honeymoon leaves in less than three hours. And I know neither of us are packed.
Crap! We better get a move on then...
They found their friends and mother chatting casually at a nearby table. Weiss was playing with the miniature bride and groom cake statues. Hate to break it to you guys, but we have to leave and get packed for our honeymoon.
Everyone stood up, hugged and said their good-byes (Weiss's was something like, You kids have lots of fun, if you know what I mean. He then winked. Buy me something!).
Sydney and Vaughn proceeded out the door and into their limo, after a day they once thought was never possible.
A/n: Wow, guys, I actually cried while writing this. (It also hasn't helped that I've been listening to My Immortal by Evanescence almost nonstop...) Anyway, you'll all hate me to know that I've been planning Jack's leukemia since chapter 9-ish. Am I good at keeping secrets or what? Sorry if it's all gloomy and depressing. The leukemia parts are the ones that make me cry.
Yes, I realize that the wedding ceremony part may not exactly be correct. I used pieces from one of my fanfic buddy's fics (thanks, Lily Smith) and some bits from my common knowledge. I also find it peculiar that I consider something like that common knowledge.
I know that this chapter sounds like the end of the fic. To your relief or dismay, hopefully relief, it is not the end. There is still much to go. Hey- just for kicks, I almost thought of at the part of speak now of forever hold your peace having Sark run in and shooting someone. But I completely decided against it. It was more of just a random thought, though now that I think about it it seems rather JJ-ish.
For those of you who were confused about Emily Sloane's presence at the wedding, I decided that she was welcome because A). she was close to Sydney, and B). she isn't Arvin Sloane/didn't know about his evilness.
Where should Syd and Vaughn go on their honeymoon???
So, after a MIGHTY long A/N, REVIEW, I SAY! REVIEW!
~Whitelighter Enchantress