Steps
Author's Note: Originally published on August 30, 2009
You blink rapidly for a moment as you stand before the floral-draped archway, unsure of whether your eyes are simply adjusting to the bright autumn sunlight, or if they are fighting to stop the tears which are threatening to fall. You peek out at the wondrous scene awaiting you, one which your younger naive self would have described as magical. But this is a type of magic, isn't it? Not the kind you perform with a wand, but the kind you feel deep in your heart and soul.
You sense the comforting presence of your father at your side as you step forward to be greeted by a crescendo of murmurs, nearly drowning out the swell of strings, which announce your arrival. You begin a slow walk down the richly carpeted aisle, your silvery slippers gliding over the rose petals strewn in the path to your future. Your love had insisted on the roses, having observed them in your parents' photo album.
You dare not meet his eyes just yet, or you will be lost. You glance up and see your adopted brother smiling at you proudly, playing the rare but welcomed role of sidekick. You faintly hear the quiet sobs of your mother and his, the sounds of their shared joy nearly overwhelm you.
Your resistance finally breaks as you shift your gaze to the man standing proudly in front of you. He looks so handsome in his dress robes. His fiery hair glints in the sunshine, the silky feel of it long since memorized by your fingertips. Your heartbeat speeds up when you see the look of love and awe in his eyes.
The people, the music and the decorations fade to the corner of your consciousness as you draw closer to him. The two of you have transported to your own little world, and you have the sudden urge to run the remaining distance and boldly leap into his arms, like you did that fateful night a few years ago. You know he would welcome it; you can see it in the amused smile he is now giving you.
You are broken out of your reverie by your father's whispered words as you feel him press two kisses against your temple, a simple gesture he had been doing since you were little; it had always made you feel cherished and safe. With one last look you can feel him letting you go, content in the knowledge that you will continue to be loved and protected.
Your soon-to-be sister flashes you a bright smile as you finally take your place at his side, where you plan to remain for the rest of your life. You feel his hand gently enclose yours and squeeze lightly, his palm sweaty but sure. You exchange tender looks and mouthed declarations of love before the ceremony begins. The two of you stand on the cusp of something wonderful and, hand in hand, you are ready to embark on this next great journey... together.