Six months of planning went into this day, the day that Greg Sanders and Hailey Parker would become husband and wife. They couldn't have chosen a better day than June 16th. The sun was shining and the birds were singing sweetly in the trees. Everything was perfect. Greg had waited for this day his whole life. He couldn't believe it was finally time to become one with the girl of his dreams.
Also unbelievable was the fact that they had found a decent church to get married in, considering this was Las Vegas, the city that was infamous for its drive through chapels and quickie marriages. Both the bride and groom grew more anxious as the time drew nearer. Greg's hands hadn't shook this bad since the accident, but this time it was a different kind of anxiety. Was he really ready to commit to one woman for the rest of his life? Was Hailey Parker really the one? He reminded himself that he was ready and that Hailey was the perfect woman for him.
They both felt a sense of relief when the time finally came for Hailey to walk down the aisle.
She looked absolutely stunning in her white wedding dress. Greg had a hard time containing his emotions as he watched her walk down the aisle towards him, much to the surprise of his co workers who were seated near the front of the church.
Nick mouthed a silent "You can do it", while Warrick gave and enthusiastic thumbs up. Grissom was content enjoying the orchestra playing in the background and Catherine and Sara admired Hailey and the beautiful flowers. Greg just wanted her to hurry up and join him at the altar. Just her being there with him made everything less scary. As soon as she reached the altar and stood opposite Greg, all his fears and doubts began to fade. He loved how she had a way of calming him and making him feel secure.
As they gazed into each others eyes, the rest of the world seemed to stop. Now it was just the two of them, ready to pledge their undying love for each other. Greg said his vows first. He took a deep breath and glanced around the building. Everyone was watching him with and expectant look on their faces.
"Hailey, I can't believe I found such an amazing woman" Greg looked into her eyes and smiled. "You are truly incredible. You make my life so complete and fulfilling. You comfort me and give me a strength that no one else can. You chase away my fears and you know my hopes and dreams." Greg began to choke up and he struggled to maintain his composure.
"Not only are you beautiful, but you're also smart. You can give me advice and make me laugh. You understand me like nobody can. You know exactly when I need a hug or a smile.
I just love your smile. It makes my world so much brighter, and I can't wait to see your smile everyday for the rest of my life. I love you, Hailey."
Hailey wiped the tears from her eyes along with people in the church.
"Greg, I can't express how thankful I am for you. You showed me what true love is. You've given me a shoulder to cry on and you have been a source of comfort like nothing I've ever known. You opened a part of my soul that had grown cold. You helped heal the pain that kept me from loving someone like I love you. You awakened my heart to love when I thought I could never love again. Greg, you found me when no one else was looking. I don't know what I did to deserve such an amazing man like you. I can't wait to see what our life together holds for the future. I love you with all my heart."
Now there was not a dry eye in the church. Even the female members of the small orchestra were misty eyed. The love Hailey felt for Greg was unlike anything she had ever felt before.
After the "I do's" were said, it was time for the best part.
"You may kiss the bride."
Greg could hardly contain his joy as he smiled and kissed his new wife. He felt as if he was on a cloud. The kiss was short and sweet and ended with a knowing glance. There would be more time for affection that night.
"I now present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Sanders." Hailey couldn't believe what she was hearing. She was Mrs. Greg Sanders! Both Greg and Hailey were all smiles as they walked down the aisle together. Greg caught a glimpse of the CSI team as they made their way to the door of the church. Catherine and Sara were wiping their eyes, wads of tissues lying between them.
When they got out of the church, both breathed a sigh of relief. "We're really married!" Hailey exclaimed.
"Yeah, I've never been so relieved in all my life." Greg replied with a chuckle. They headed out to meet the limousine that would take them to the reception. They were greeted with the traditional showering of rice before getting in the vehicle. Greg had to remind himself to remain calm and to keep his hands to himself as they rode through the streets of Las Vegas. Hailey sensed what he was thinking and kissed him tenderly on the cheek.
"Be patient, baby we still have the reception to get through!"
"Sorry, sweetie it's just that you look so beautiful." Greg said blushing. They couldn't wait until the reception was over. Tonight would be a night neither of them would forget.
