The fifteen or so guest, that included mostly close friends from work, were already seated in the folding chairs. The evening sky whose colors were slowly changing as the sun set, served as the perfect backdrop for the ceremony. The minister joined Chris and Eddie at the water's edge. Doug Basham escorted Autumn and Molly down the steps that led from the hotel directly onto the beach. Both women took their positions to the right of the minister, as Doug took a seat on the front row. Everyone was anxiously awaiting the arrival of the bride. Molly noticed Chris wringing his hands and smiled as she exchanged looks with Eddie.
"I hope he's really ready for this Dean. You know I love him with all my heart right? And you know I'm gonna take good care of him." Mel smiled as she linked her arm through Dean Malenko's.
"I know you will sweetheart. I'm just glad he finally found you. He's been searching for love and happiness for so long, and he's found it in you."
"Thanks Dean, it means a lot to both of us to have your approval." She smiled shyly and placed a kiss on his cheek.
"The man's waited long enough, let's not make him wait any longer."
Mel took a deep breath and exhaled slowly as they stepped out onto the terrace. Despite there not being any music, the guests all stood as they made their way down the steps. Eddie patted Chris on the back. "You're one lucky amigo." Chris never took his eyes off her. "I know." She took his breath away. Dean walked her down the makeshift aisle, the sand was lined with candles and seashells. She wore a simple white silk dress and carried the single rose, she smiled as her eyes locked with Chris's. A gentle breeze blew in off the ocean making the flames of the candles flicker as she and Dean walked past. Stray strands of hair swirled around her face as she made her way to Chris. Both smiled lovingly at each other as if they were the only two people there. They were completely lost in each other. Dean gave her a kiss and placed her hand in Chris's as he took his place beside Eddie. Mel passed the rose to Autumn and turned facing Chris. He reached out, gently tucking the wayward strand of hair behind her ear. His touch sent sparks through her, their love evident as they gazed intently into each others eyes, as he took her hands in his.
"We are gathered here to witness the uniting of Christopher Michael Benoit and Melony Abigale McBaine in holy matrimony. I understand you have written your own vows. Christopher, if you will." The minister nodded and Chris smiled, squeezing her hands gently, he looked into her eyes. "I don't remember the second I fell in love with you. The truth is I can't picture a time that I wasn't in love with you. I always knew you were the one that could look into my eyes and see my soul. I don't question your love for me, because it shines through in everything you do. It's a miracle to find the kind of peace and happiness that you've given me, and in honor of that miracle, I take you as my wife and best friend. I pledge before our family and friends to love and cherish you forever."
Mel took a deep breath, willing the tears not to spill. Her heart thumped heavily against her chest as she spoke. "I look at you and I see my best friend, your energy and passion inspire me in ways I never thought possible. Your inner beauty, so strong, that I no longer fear being myself. I no longer fear at all. I never thought that I could find someone that would love me back unconditionally. You give me a purpose when I feel I have none. Without you my soul would be empty, my heart broken, my being incomplete. I thank God every day that you were brought in my life, my soul mate. Thank you for loving me."
Tears of happiness filled her eyes as Chris kissed the back of her hand. His own eyes watering. "The rings please." Eddie put the ring in Chris's palm, whispering a blessing in Spanish. Autumn kissed Mel on the cheek before placing the ring in her hand. "Now Christopher if you will please repeat after me." Chris took her left hand in his, nervously repeating the ministers words. He gently slid the ring on her slender finger, smiling through tears of sheer joy. She in turn did the same, repeating the very words and sliding the platinum band on his finger. "In the name of the father, the son and the holy spirit, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." As the newlyweds embraced each other, the guests erupted in applause, and cheered as Chris and Mel continued to kiss passionately. Their love was just beginning to truly blossom.