What Love Really Means

by mystic2182

The last part of the trilogy. Follows Sparks Fly in the Dark and Real Fine Place to Start

6. PART VI

PART VI

"We're married!" She said it again for what seemed like the millionth time, her eyes growing sparkly with tears, her pink lips spread in a wide smile.

Nathan laughed beside her, her enthusiasm contagious. "I know! I was there."

Haley elbowed him playfully in the ribs, her smile never wavering. "I know I just can't help saying it. We're married! You're my husband! I'm your wife!" She leaned over to kiss him, her lips fitting against his perfectly; her mouth soft. Nathan pressed back eagerly, his mouth pressing hers deliciously.

She pulled away quickly to laugh as the words bubbled out of her. "Haley Scott. I'm Haley Scott." She settled into his side, her body tight along his, the roominess of the limo lost on them.

Nathan chuckled, thrilled by her happiness. "Yes you are. I think it fits you well."

"I do too." Haley giggled, her hand stretched out in front of her to study the way her wedding band complimented her engagement ring. "I love you Nate." She turned her eyes on him, the happiness she felt spread plainly across her cheeks in a faint blush.

He watched her face, the way her eyes stayed trained on his, her lips curving up in a full smile, all while her fingers played with his. "I love you too Hales." He leaned over her, kissing her passionately, his tongue running along the soft folds her mouth. He felt the breath leave her, the way she all but sank into him, and his hands ran to grasp her hair. He moaned softly at the way she tasted, her tongue running along his. Pushing her back slightly against the leather of the limo, he felt the soft curves of her body beneath the satin of her dress.

Watching her walk down the aisle to him only minutes earlier had given him a sense of reality. They had pledged their love to each other in front of everyone that mattered in their lives, and to know that she was his, that she chose to be with him, had his heart brimming with joy.

Nathan's fingers grasped at the silky strands of her curls, before he pulled back abruptly. "Oh Hales, I'm sorry." Her hair hung loose from the clips that had previously held it so perfectly.

Her eyes fluttered questioningly before she smiled, her hands running over her hair. "It's okay. We can fix it." She grinned, leaning over to kiss him once more, her lips hungry and demanding against his.

Nathan smiled against her lips, his teeth nipping at her bottom lip. "Are you sure? I know you wanted our pictures to be perfect."

"And they will be. I'll just get Brooke to fix it before we set up for pictures." Haley glanced out the window. "Everyone else is meeting us there. It should only be a few more minutes."

Nathan nodded, running a hand along her back. "Yeah Luke said they'd be waiting for us."

The limo slid slickly down the street, the dimming twilight ushering in the light of the street lamps. On the horizon, Nathan saw the gardens come into view, the tall trees that lined the street on either side growing closer. On one of their many wedding errands Haley had wanted to find the perfect location for pictures. Wedding pictures, in her mind, were one of the most important parts of a wedding, as they would serve as a reminder to their eventful day. The photographer, a small man with large square glasses who insisted they call him Geoffrey not Geoff, had recommended Ailish Gardens as the ideal locale. The minute they had stepped into its plush gardens and extravagant fountains they had known he was right.

"Look how beautiful it is Nathan." Haley smiled, her eyes dancing. "I'm so glad we waited till after the wedding to take the pictures. Wasn't it perfect? Not seeing each other till I walked down the aisle?"

"It really was Hales. I don't think you've ever looked more gorgeous. All I was thinking about was running down the aisle and snatching you up." He pressed a kiss to her neck causing her to giggle.

They rolled to a stop, the faces of their friends and family illuminated in the twilight by the glowing street lights. Nathan framed Haley's face with his hands, studied the way her eyes darkened as they stared into his, the way her tongue darted out to touch the corner of her mouth, the way her breath came just a bit faster in anticipation for his lips. Closing the distance between them, Nathan felt the faint brush of her lips against his, the way they all but pulsed beneath his, and he dove for her, tasting all of her at once. The gloss of her lips was slick against his and his tongue ran along the soft inner folds of her mouth.

He pulled back to smile at her, before fingering the curls that fallen loose for the pins. He fumbled, trying to get the hair back to how it originally looked, or at least close.

Haley's hands stilled his own. "Don't worry about it Nathan. I'll just get Brooke or Peyton to fix it. I don't mind." She smiled sweetly, pecking him quickly on the lips before throwing open the limo door and stepping out.

"Hey married couple!" Brooke shouted happily as they emerged from the back of the limo. "We weren't sure if we were going to have to send a search party." She smiled briefly before a frown turned on her lips. "What did you do to your hair?"

Nathan looked away quickly as Peyton laughingly joined them. "Isn't it obvious Brooke? Nathan got a little overzealous with his new bride." She gave Nathan a quick wink.

Brooke smirked as she turned Haley to work on her hair. "Was that it Nate? Couldn't keep your hands off Haley?"

Rather than respond, he simply pressed a heated kiss to Haley's mouth before turning to stand with Lucas and Tim.

"You know, you're lucky you have me Hales. Otherwise in all your pictures it would look like you had walked through a tornado." Brooke pulled at the pins, attempting to recreate Haley's earlier hairstyle.

Haley smiled, "I know. But Nathan was so cute, he felt bad about ruining my hair. He even tried to fix it before we got out of the car."

"So that's why your hair is all swirled on one side." Peyton laughed, fingering a curl.

"Pretty much." Haley nodded.

Brooke shrugged, her eyes narrowing to focus on the clips. "Well I'll give him credit for trying. But next time, hands off."

Haley laughed, "I'll remind him the next time we get married."

"You know what I mean." Brooke fastened one last clip, all but erasing any trace of Nathan's hands to Haley's curls, before stepping aside to study. "Almost as good as earlier. Do you have any hairspray P. Sawyer?

Peyton patted at her dress. "Sorry, I forgot to pack it in my bra."

Brooke raised one eyebrow. "No need for snipes Miss Sawyer."

"Sorry. I just couldn't resist." Peyton smiled, throwing an arm around Brooke's shoulders. "Maybe Geoffrey has some." She drawled out his name theatrically causing Haley and Brooke to laugh.

"Did I hear my name?" The man in question appeared behind them, looking artistic and not a little edgy in his black turtleneck, as if he was immune to the humidity of June in North Carolina.

Peyton cringed, afraid he had heard her sarcastic tone, as Brooke smiled charmingly at him. "Do you happen to have any hairspray? I wanted to touch up Haley's hair before the pictures."

Geoffrey raised a single eyebrow at Peyton, before smiling slightly at Brooke. "Of course. I make it a point to have those sorts of things for wedding pictures. You never know what the weather may be. Wind is a bride's worst nightmare."

Tim nudged Nathan. "Is this dude for real?"

Lowering his voice to a dead whisper, Nathan nodded. "Unfortunately, yes. But he's one of the best photographers in the area. Haley fell in love with his sample pictures."

Tim shrugged as the boys watched Brooke put the final touches on Haley's hair, readjusting her veil so it sat prettily on the top of her head. In a few short strokes all traces of any mussing were gone, and Haley looked as she had when she had first stepped down the aisle. Nathan's heart constricted happily at the recent memory of Haley's smile, the way her lips had turned up mysteriously as she had headed towards him, rows and rows of their friends and family on either side of her, yet her smile all for him.

"Gorgeous!" Geoffrey clapped his hands together, signaling everyone's attention. "Alright, I want to start with a few bridal party pictures before we do any of the happy couple or the families. So if I could get you all to gather around and Kim and I will place you for the first group of shots."

They all dutifully followed his instructions, watched as he and his assistant posed them one after another in a variety of pictures which he promised would turn out spectacularly. They were snapped in different combinations: the entire bridal party, the bride and her bridesmaids, the groom and his groomsmen, the maid of honor and the best man, and on and on and on, all in different locations and poses. The large fountain behind them provided a lovely background, the water spraying in magnificent arches as the trees twinkled with white Christmas lights.

"Thank you bridal party! I think we've gotten all the ones we need with you for now." Geoffrey dismissed them with a simple flick of his wrist. "Now, Haley, Nathan, I've got some great ideas for your photos, and of course if there is anything specific you want, please do not hesitate to tell me." He turned quickly, leading them to the large stone steps the whole party had occupied only moments before. "When we decided on all black and white pictures I came out here to do some test photos of the different backgrounds I thought would be best for your couple shots. I thought we'd try a few here on the steps first before moving to the fountain."

Haley nodded happily, following closely behind Geoffrey as Nathan trailed slightly. Geoffrey turned to him, beckoning Nathan closer. "Nathan, I thought we'd start with you sitting here please, on the third step." He motioned for Nathan to take a seat. Once Nathan was settled, her took Haley's hand, positioning her in between Nathan's legs, her back pressed solidly into his chest. Geoffrey nodded slowly, moving Haley's hair to one side, draping the long veil prettily over her shoulder. He hurried away from them, grabbing his camera. "Nathan, kiss Haley on the neck."

Nathan did so happily, loving the way she shivered slightly as his lips skimmed over her skin. He almost forgot about Geoffrey or their friends and family watching them as his lips cruised over the milky skin of her neck, his fingers moving to intertwine with hers. The camera clicked loudly as Geoffrey took shot after shot of them. Haley moved their twined hands to her mouth, pressing a soft kiss against his knuckles as he watched her. She turned her head to look at him lovingly and he closed the distance between them, pressing his lips to hers sweetly and solidly. The faint click of the camera could be heard around them, as he gazed at her, loving the moment.

Geoffrey's clear voice broke through their thoughts, "Alright, that was perfect. For the next pose, I wanted to do a few pictures of Haley's veil covering the two of you." He moved the veil so that it was draped across the two of them, their faces shrouded by the thin layer of material. "Keep your eyes on each other and forget the rest of us are here."

Lucas chuckled, "Like that'll be hard for them." He slung his arm around Peyton's shoulders as she snuggled into his side.

Haley sent Lucas a cheeky smile before returning her eyes to Nathan, the deep blue of them as she watched the way they crinkled when he smiled widely at her. It was easy to see why she loved him so much.

He was her everything.

"Geoffrey might be a huge pain in the ass, but some of those poses he had for the pictures will be stunning." Brooke spoke up as they all walked towards the reception hall, the laughter and chatter from the partially open doors growing louder as they neared.

Nathan laughed. "Well for how highly he came recommended, I'm glad we got him."

"That one of the two of you in front of the fountain, Hales, I can't wait till you see it. The water was spraying in this huge arc, and from what we could see, it was the perfect backdrop. The pictures will be amazing." Peyton put in thoughtfully.

Haley laughed happily, "I can't wait till we get the pictures."

The group stopped outside the large doors, the sounds of the reception loud behind them. Lucas smiled, "I'm going to let the DJ know we're ready for introductions."

Nathan nodded as Lucas slipped through the doors, "Thanks man."

Tim sidled up next to Brooke, offering her his arm. "Are you ready for our introductions?" He wiggled his eyebrows at her.

Scoffing, Brooke looped her arm through his, taking great pleasure in pinching him slightly. "Don't get any ideas, Tim." She turned to look at Haley. "You just had to keep Peyton and Lucas together, didn't you? At least Tim would have left Peyton alone for fear of Lucas."

Haley smiled as she settled into Nathan's side, "Sorry Brooke, but I give you permission to hit him whenever you feel necessary."

Brooke brightened at that, smiling devilishly at Tim, as Lucas reappeared from the doors. "Alright, they're ready for us. Brooke, Tim, you're first."

The doors opened grandly as their friends and family sat waiting, all attention on the bridal party. The DJ spoke clearly through the microphone giving their introductions, "And now, our bridal party. Brooke Davis, friend of the bride and groom, and Tim Smith friend of the bride and groom." Brooke and Tim walked quickly through the dining tables, smiling as they made their way to the head table.

Lucas and Peyton stood next, their arms lovingly linked, Lucas throwing her a quick wink before they too walked through the door. "Maid of honor Peyton Sawyer, friend of the bride and groom and best man Lucas Scott friend of the bride and brother of the groom."

Nathan took Haley's hand in his, pulling her fingers to his lips. "I love you Haley. Let's go party." Haley smiled brightly at him, kissing him quickly as the DJ beckoned them. "Please raise your glass and help us welcome the bride and groom, the newly betrothed Mr. and Mrs. Nathan and Haley Scott." Haley gleefully pulled Nathan inside as their friends and family clapped and toasted them as they made their way to the head table. They stopped to hug both his parents and hers, before settling in their seats with Brooke and Tim, Peyton and Lucas flanking them. The reception hall was awash in black and white silk, flowers, votive candles, and strands of pearls strewn across the table tops, the large chandelier glowing brightly above them.

A clinking of forks tapping glasses started out from the crowd and Nathan smiled broadly, enjoying this particular wedding custom. Leaning over he grabbed Haley's chin, pressing his lips fully to hers, hearing the roar of cheers surround them from their family and friends. When he pulled back he delighted in the way Haley's neck had turned faintly pink and he pecked at her lips again before slinging an arm along the back of her chair.

The waiters brought out the salads for everyone but Haley and Nathan were too busy to eat. They circulated the room, talking and mingling with their guests, earning well wishes and good luck from those who were there to help them celebrate.

"May I have Haley and Nathan join me on the dance floor please?" The DJ spoke again, causing the guests to find their seats and the married couple walked out onto the wide dance floor.

"Now before Haley and Nathan take their first dance as a married couple, I've been told that someone has a quick story they want to tell." The DJ handed the microphone to Peyton, who smiled genuinely.

"Hi everyone. I promise I won't take too much time, I know we all want to see Nathan and Haley's first dance. Now everyone knows that picking the song that you're first going to dance to is an important decision for a couple to make. And in Nathan and Haley's case, let's just say there was a differing of opinions. One they fought to the very last minute."

"There is no way I'm dancing to that song!" Nathan stood with his arms rigidly crossed, his mouth drawn in a thin line.

Haley sat across from him, her face set in a similar line. "What's wrong with it?"

Nathan chuckled humorlessly, "Where should I start? First, it's by Elton John. Second, it's by Elton John, and third it's lame. There has got to be a better choice."

"You like Elton John Nathan. Don't try and deny it now. You sing "Tiny Dancer" all the time." Haley scoffed.

"Okay, fine, he has some good songs. I just don't want that song to be our first dance. It's the freaking Lion King song Hales! You know the minute Tim hears it he'll start singing the whole freaking soundtrack. And I could do with out Tim's rendition of Hakuna Matata at my wedding."

Haley giggled then, picturing Tim belting out the familiar lyrics. "Alright fine, you're right. It's a horrible choice. But it just feels like every song we've thought of is completely clichéd. I mean, I love "At Last" or "Wonderful Tonight" but everyone uses those songs now. I want ours to be original. You know who we need don't you?" She smiled.

Nathan's eyes narrowed. "No. We can do this by ourselves. Come on, we have a good list going. "Everything I Do" by Brian Adams; "Memories of Us" by Keith Urban; "I'm Gonna Love You Forever" by Jessica Simpson; "From This Moment On" by Shania Twain; "Inspiration" by Chicago; "The Woman With You" by Kenny Chesney; "You and Me" by Lifehouse; "I Could Not Ask for More" by Edwin McCain; "Bless the Broken Road" by Rascal Flatts; "Take My Breath Away" by Berlin; "It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill; god we have a lot of country songs on here. Do you even listen to country?"

Haley giggled, "Sometimes. And what can I say; they have some of the best love songs. But I'm serious Nathan. We should call Peyton. She's the music expert. I'm sure she's got the perfect song for us."

Nathan closed his eyes and groaned. "I know, but I wanted to pick this out ourselves. I mean, it's our song. Shouldn't we be the ones to choose it?"

"Well seeing as you only listen to rap and I really don't want our first dance as husband and wife to be to a Jay-Z song, I think we may need Peyton's help. We can't agree on anything."

Nathan shot Haley a withering glance. "Like I'd really pick a rap song. Give me a little more credit than that."

"Please Nathan. Let me call Peyton, please." She pouted her lip out, putting on her most pathetic face.

Groaning again, Nathan slid the phone over to Haley, "Fine."

"Classics. You need to pick a song that you won't regret twenty years down the line. I don't care if it's popular now, you'll regret it if it turns out to be an incredibly cheesy song later." Peyton spoke up from the kitchen table, a long list of songs written in front of her. "So after you called Hales, I sat through my albums and some of my dad's and I went through only musicians that had stood the test of time. I mean, you're wedding is a black and white theme, I think that speaks of class. You need a song that will fit that."

Haley grinned, nodding happily, and even Nathan looked more interested. "That's exactly what we need Peyton. What did you come up with?"

Peyton cleared her throat. "Well I started with the old time crooners: Sinatra, Davis, Martin, you know, the Rat Pack. I think that might be your best bet. Plus Michael Bublé sings them with a new feel. And I think I found one in particular that might be perfect for you two. It might be a traditional wedding song, but it's so lovely I can see why." She tapped her pen on the first song listed, it's title underlined multiple times followed by exclamation points.

Haley let out a long sigh, her eyes growing wistful before she reached for Nathan's hand. "It's perfect Nathan. What do you think?"

Nathan let the familiar words flow over him before he nodded, smiling. "I think you're right. Thank you Peyton."

Peyton smiled, "My pleasure."

"So I had a little help in choosing their song, which is just too beautiful for words. And so thank you for indulging me in a little story, and now, turn your attention to the beautiful bride and groom for their first dance." Peyton smiled brightly, leading a round of clapping as the beginning strains began.

Extending his hand, Nathan grasped Haley's hand in his, pulling her close, letting the familiar words of the old song surround them and they lost themselves in each other.

Some day, when I'm awfully low,

Nathan slid his arm around Haley's waist, his other hand wrapped tightly with hers, pressing their joined hands against his chest.

When the world is cold,

They moved slowly, their bodies keeping time to the simple sounds surrounding them and all they saw was each other. Their eyes stayed focused on one another.

I will feel a glow just thinking of you

He leaned down to kiss her briefly, loving the feel of her lips against his, the gentle brush of her skin beneath his fingertips, the very essence of her. He was so in love with her he could focus on nothing else, and that didn't seem like such a bad fate.

And the way you look tonight.

Nathan spun her quickly, earning a delighted squeal from between her lips before they moved into the dance they had been practicing for weeks.

You're lovely, with your smile so warm

"Dance lessons? Seriously, Hales." Nathan scowled as they drove to Miss Kit's Dance Studio.

"I know. It sounds horrible, but a lot of engaged couples sign up to practice for their wedding. Don't you want our first dance to be special? Not just us swaying in a circle like you would at a high school prom?" Haley smiled sweetly from the passenger's seat.

Nathan settled a flirty grin on her. "From what I remember about our prom we did a whole lot more than just sway. I never heard you say we need lessons for that."

Haley rolled her eyes good naturedly, chuckling at the way Nathan squeezed her thigh. "No that's definitely true." She leaned over to kiss him quickly. "But I'm serious. I want us to be able to really dance. I only signed us up for 3 lessons. I'm sure we can learn a simple waltz in 3 lessons. It's not like we're trying out for Dancing With the Stars."

And your cheeks so soft,

Miss Kit, they soon found out was nearly 70 years old yet she danced around the room as someone half her age. She fawned over them, quickly deciding they were her new favorite couple, and helpfully focused a great deal of attention on them.

"I don't know if I can do this. What if I step on her foot?" Nathan spoke up as Miss Kit was preparing to show them the beginning steps.

"Nathan darling, don't worry about that. I'm sure Haley won't die if you step on her foot. And with enough practice, you won't even worry about it anymore."

Haley patted Nathan's chest helpfully, "It's okay honey, let's just try."

Miss Kit lifted Nathan's arms, putting them into the correct position before sliding Haley into place. "Now Nathan, make sure you keep your arms here. No wandering hands." She pinched his cheek affectionately.

There is nothing for me but to love you,

"Now the music is going to start, I want you to count in your head. It's a 4-count, so on the first beat it's 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4, and so on. Just keep your arms in position and follow my feet. Haley will go where you lead her."

Nathan nodded, "No pressure."

Haley smiled, "I'll go wherever you go Nate."

And the way you look tonight.

The first lesson had been tough. He had never considered himself graceful enough to be a dancer, but yet Miss Kit had a way of explaining the steps so that he could relate. And after three lessons, they had both perfected a dance that was sure to surprise their family and friends.

With each word your tenderness grows,

Nathan pushed her, spinning her in a small circle as she gracefully slid under his arm. He caught the eye of his mother at her table, grinning at her shocked face as he caught Haley mid spin to pull her back into the slow waltz.

Tearing my fears apart

Haley smiled happily into his eyes, the pure joy of the moment written clearly across her face as she caught the eye of Peyton, standing off to the side with Lucas. The blonde smiled happily at her, grinning from ear to ear before whispering in Lucas's ear. Lucas turned to grin at her, kissing her lightly on the lips before turning his attention back to his brother and sister in law.

And that laugh that wrinkles your nose,

They continued to dance in a perfectly executed step, those three lessons paying off as their family and friends watched in admiration.

Touches my foolish heart.

"I love you Nathan. This night has been better than I ever could have dreamed. Thank you for everything you've done to make it like this for me."

Yes you're lovely, never, ever change

"I wanted this to be perfect for you. I love you Haley. I'd do anything for you. Never forget that."

Keep that breathless charm.

It was hard to focus on anything else, when all you could see was how in love they truly were, their smiles only for each other. Each look a loving caress, each touch a tender sign of affection, each word an oath of devotion.

Won't you please arrange it?

Lydia smiled at the way her daughter was now dancing with her husband. Husband. Her little girl was married, and she had never seen such a look of unbridled happiness, and knew that for them, this was the start of everything.

'Cause I love you

"That's my family." Lucas smiled serenely at the way Nathan and Haley danced, their eyes never leaving each other's, their bodies pressed close. He turned to look at Peyton, saw she too watched them happily, her eyes layered in a sheen of tears. "I love you Peyton."

Just the way you look tonight.

Hearing his words, Peyton turned, blinking back through the veil of tears. "I love you too Lucas." She pressed her lips to his once, twice, feeling the way he pressed back, inhaling the fresh scent of his cologne.

With each word your tenderness grows,

"They're my family. Nathan and Haley. And so are you. You're my family Peyton." His eyes stayed locked on hers, his gaze never wavering, and he was treated with the slow, brilliant smile that broke across her lips before she wrapped her arms around his neck, squeezing her body along the length of his.

Tearing my fears apart

Tim couldn't help but stare at the way Nathan moved Haley around the dance floor. It was hard to imagine Nathan without Haley, without the man she had helped make him, and watching them now, he couldn't help but envy what they shared. He only hoped he would be lucky enough to have it one day.

And that laugh that wrinkles your nose,

They were lucky. Haley and Nathan. To find someone they loved so completely when they were only sixteen. It was hard not to be jealous of them, but Brooke had learned long ago, that with Nathan and Haley, they made you believe that there was true love out there for everyone. And, as she settled into Chris's side, felt his arm twine around her waist, maybe she already had already found it.

Touches my foolish heart.

Of all his children, Haley had always been the closest to his heart. Jimmy had always believed it was because she was his youngest, but he knew now that it was for her kind heart, the way she brought the best out in everyone that had him wanting to keep her close. Not every father had the opportunity to watch his daughter fall in love with a man he not only respected, but now saw as his family. And for that, Jimmy considered himself the luckiest man in the world.

Yes you're lovely, never, ever change

Deb smiled serenely as Nathan and Haley continued to twirl while the old standard sung new filled the room. A beautiful song for a beautiful couple. Her son had done right for himself. It was more than a mother could ask for.

Keep that breathless charm.

Watching them, the way they smiled at one another, the way his son kept his eyes focused on her, brought a rise of emotion in Dan. His son had grown into the man Dan never had the courage to be: a man who loved without reservation, without approval, and without care as to who could see. He could learn a lot from his son. It was about time he started listening.

Won't you please arrange it?

"Miss Kit sure did teach you how to dance." Haley grinned at him, her lips pink and glossy.

'Cause I love you

Nathan leaned over to kiss her, barely moving his lips before he spoke. "It helped that I have a great partner."

Just the way you look tonight.

"So you're glad I signed us up?" She grinned against his lips.

Nathan nodded, leaning back slightly to look her in the eye. "Yeah I'm glad." He kissed her again, this time taking more pleasure in feeling her lips beneath his, the slight pressure of her tongue against his. "How long until we get to go upstairs?" He grinned devilishly.

Just the way you look tonight.

Haley giggled, barely containing the blush that spread across her face. "Soon. Very soon."

Darling

"Never stop blushing Hales. It's so hot." He pressed a kiss to her neck as their bodies slowed, as the music slowed around them, the one last line hanging in the air around them, a true testament to the night.

Just the way you look tonight.

Their family and friends broke out in applause, and the sound of forks clinking against water glasses had Haley pulling Nathan by his jacket into a searing kiss, earning them more than a few whistles.

The DJ put on one of the many songs they had picked out, garnering a few people to join them on the dance floor as others continued to eat their dinner. Haley stayed pressed close to Nathan. "How about another dance? High school prom style?" She wrapped her arms around his waist, staying close as the song drifted lazily around them. Nathan smiled down at her, pressing a kiss to her ear as he wrapped his arms around her, leading her in a slow spin.

"Ladies and gentlemen. We will now hear a few words from our maid of honor, Peyton Sawyer."

Everyone turned toward the head table, their eyes locked on Peyton's standing figure. She smiled slowly, pulling a note card off the table before addressing everyone.

"I'm not big on speeches, so I'll leave the wisdom and romance for Lucas, he's better at it anyway. But, uh, I've known both Haley and Nathan since high school. And I've had the pleasure of watching them fall in love. In the beginning not many people were sure if it would last. They seemed like true polar opposites, but in their case, they found their missing half. For all that Nathan isn't, which is a lot," Peyton smiled cheekily at Nathan, "Haley is. And vice versa. I'm not sure they'd be the people they are today without one another. Not many people can say that they've found someone who makes them who they are, but Nathan and Haley can. I love you both. You are some of my best friends, and I want to thank you for giving each one of us a chance to see what real happiness is, what real love is. It gives us all something to strive for." Peyton wiped at her eyes with Lucas's handkerchief. "So please, raise your glass and help me toast Nathan and Haley, a true love worth hoping for."

A murmuring of agreement broke out among the guests as they sipped their champagne before Lucas stood to take the microphone from Peyton. He kissed her briefly before smiling at the guests. Haley reached over to hug Peyton tightly as Lucas began to speak.

"My girlfriend, the poet." Lucas smiled, clearing his throat. "Nathan and I haven't always had the greatest relationship. We've fought, we've thrown punches, but we've grown to be brothers. And a lot of that was due to Haley. In the beginning she was our common bond. And she brought us together in a lot of ways. It was our love for her that helped create a family. There are no two people I'm closer to than them. They are my family in every way that matters. In blood, in love, and they are what true love is. We tend to scowl at the term 'true love' nowadays, but in terms of them, nothing else seems to do them justice. My greatest wish for the two of you is that through the years your love for each other only deepens and grows, that years from now you will look back on this day, your wedding day, as the day you loved each other the least. And in the words of Elizabeth Barrett Browning: 'yet, love, mere love, is beautiful indeed and therefore if to love can be desert, indeed this very love which is my boast and wilt thou have me fashion into speech, if thou must love me, let it be for nought.' I love you both. Be good to one another."

Haley leaned over to kiss Lucas on the cheek, hugging him tightly. Nathan hugged him, whispering his thanks as Lucas sat again beside Peyton. Nathan stood, grabbing the microphone and earning him a curious stare from Haley.

"I'm not one for giving speeches. And from the look Haley's giving me, you can tell she's surprised I'm up here." The guests chuckled as Haley nodded her head. Nathan grinned, "I wanted to start by thanking you all for coming today to help Haley and I celebrate. It really wouldn't mean as much to us if all our friends and family weren't here with us." He glanced down at Haley, pulling her up beside him. "I consider myself a very lucky man to have someone as wonderful as Haley to share my life with. She's my best friend in every way that matters, and I'm so thankful I found her. I love you Haley, and I can't wait to spend the rest of our lives together." He leaned down to kiss her as tears trickled down her cheeks. He pulled back to wipe them with the pads of his fingers, her smile heartbreakingly beautiful.

"Nathan." She spoke his name softly, a brief whisper. "I love you."

"Are you ready for the bouquet P. Sawyer? I've already told Haley she has to aim for you." Brooke bumped hips with Peyton as they stood in the middle of the dance floor with the rest of the "single" women as Haley prepared to toss her bouquet.

Peyton turned a sharp eye towards Brooke. "Why me?"

Brooke rolled her eyes as if the answer was obvious. "Who's all but engaged to Lucas already? You missy. So therefore, you are next in line. So I'll push all these desperate women out of the way so you can have a clear path." She laughed heartily.

"Gee thanks Brooke. That doesn't look desperate at all." Peyton joined her, laughing loudly.

"Everyone ready!" Haley shouted from the far side of the dance floor where she stood with Lydia.

The girls chattered happily, "Ready!"

Haley turned her back, swinging her arm over her head to send the bouquet flying in a wide arc. The bouquet sailed, as if by fate, or by Brooke's pushing, into Peyton's outstretched arms. Haley turned and squealed when she saw Peyton holding the bouquet, rushing over as Brooke pulled Peyton into a huge hug.

"You did it!" Brooke bounced up and down, more excited than Peyton, who seemed to be stunned. "You're the next to get married." She turned to look for Lucas, who stood deep in conversation with Nathan and Whitey, seemingly oblivious to his signed fate.

Peyton smiled, "It's not like it's written in stone. Catch bouquet, wedding next week."

Haley laughed as she quickly approached them, "Well no, but I have to admit, I really wanted you to get it. You and Lucas are next anyway, I can tell."

Peyton brought the bouquet to her nose, sniffing slightly, "You think?" She smiled happily.

"Definitely Peyton. He's all but bought the ring. And knowing him, I wouldn't be surprised if it's in his coat pocket right now." Brooke's eyes widened quickly. "We should check his coat pocket!"

"Down girl." Peyton and Haley laughed. "He will. Eventually."

Brooke shrugged, though she kept a watchful eye on Lucas. "Fine, if you say so. But if you change your mind, you distract him and I'll find out." She smiled at the bouquet that sat resting in Peyton's hands. "So after the tossing of the bouquet, you know what's next, right Hales?" She raised her eyebrow.

All three girls grinned, "The garter."

"Alright, this is a tradition I can get behind." Nathan smirked as he kneeled beside Haley, her leg in his hand. Trailing his hand up along her leg he felt the elastic of the garter, felt the warm skin of her thigh and wished they were anywhere but in the middle of their wedding reception. Haley caught his eye and sent him a slow grin, all but promising what was to come later, as his fingers glided the garter down her leg.

Pulling the light blue garter off her leg, he twirled the material around his forefinger, causing chuckles from those who watched. The dance floor was littered with the single guys, Lucas and Tim standing off to the side, seemingly relaxed.

Haley leaned forward, whispering in Nathan's ear. "Aim for Lucas."

"What? Why?" He pressed his lips to her ear.

"Because Peyton caught the bouquet and it would be nice if Lucas caught the garter. Tradition says they'd be the next to get married. And for them it would be to each other." She smiled.

Nathan nodded, "Playing matchmaker I see."

"Oh please." She rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "They're already matched. He's all but on one knee already. Let's just give him an extra push."

"Yes dear." Nathan smiled, standing with the garter clasped in his hand. "Alright guys, get ready." He turned his back, whipping the garter over his head, throwing it to the side Lucas had been standing on. He turned back quickly, hoping to see Lucas holding the garter.

"Tim." He laughed out loud at Tim's startled expression, the garter held between two fingers. Lucas stood next to him, clutching his side with laughter at Tim's shocked expression.

Nathan turned back to Haley, smiling as he helped her stand. "Sorry."

Haley laughed, "Are you kidding? Tim's face is priceless. I hope we get a picture of that."

"Have a great honeymoon! Enjoy Greece!" They exited the ballroom to the shouts of their friends and family, all wishing them well. They were staying in the honeymoon suite upstairs and would leave for Greece the following evening, but for now, tonight, there only thought was of the wedding night, of being together, of expressing their newfound commitment. Nathan's hand pulled Haley behind him, eager to be alone with her even as their reception raged on into the night. They came to the bank of elevators, pressing for their floor before he turned to kiss her, his lips insistent against hers. She pushed back, running her tongue along his lips, diving into his mouth, tasting all of him.

The elevator arrived and Nathan pushed them into it, thankful to find it empty as they rode up to their room. Haley's mouth latched onto the sensitive skin behind his ear, his fingers flexing on her hips. The elevator doors glided open and he pulled away to guide them down the hall, stopping in front of their room. Taking the key from his pocket, he opened the door slowly, propping it open with his foot. He turned back to Haley, grinning widely.

"You don't have to Nathan." She smiled back.

Scooping her up, he laughed. "Are you kidding? We're doing this right!" He carried her over the threshold, their laughs bouncing off the walls of the hotel room. Reaching over to flick on the light, Haley let out a little gasp at the beautifully decorated room. Candles and white rose petals littered the furniture and their luggage sat open and waiting. Setting Haley down, he kissed her again, his hands fisting in her hair, no longer worried about her hair-do or appearances at all, and instead focusing on the feel of her, the taste of her, and of quelling the longing that had settled deep within him all day long.

Haley sighed into his mouth, running her tongue along his, her fingers working the suit jacket off his shoulders to drop it in a clump on the floor. Desperate to be closer, to feel his skin beneath her hands, Haley quickly removed his vest and tie, and then began to work on the buttons of his shirt.

Nathan barely had time to realize her intent before she was stripping the dress shirt off his shoulders and arms and fastening her mouth to the smooth skin of his chest. "I love you Nathan."

He began to unbutton the buttons of her dress, wishing he could rip them away but knowing to take care in removing each one. He relished in taking his time, stopping to kiss her back after each button was undone, and she quivered beneath his hands. Minutes stretched beneath them and by the last button they were both panting with strain.

"I love you Mrs. Scott." He smiled down at her, the wedding dress a pile of white fabric on a chair, his tux strewn in pieces around them.

With her hair undone, her veil and dress aside, his locket nestled between her breasts, she smiled at him, her whole face shining with love for him, and she spoke softly, her voice rough with pleasure for him, "I love you too."

And in that moment, no one else mattered, it was only the two of them, and he knew it was the beginning of always.