This Love Doesn't Run Chapter 5: Speak Now, an agents of s.h.i.e.l.d. fanfic

This Love Doesn't Run

Disclaimer:
As always, I own nothing.

Rating:
T

Genre:
Romance/Drama

Pairing:
Coulmons

Lyrics Used:
Taylor Swift "Speak Now"
Gloria Sklerov & Barbara Streisand "Friends Are Quiet Angels"
Heartland "I Loved Her First"
Chloé Wang "Every Day In Between"
Chuck Wicks "Stealin' Cinderella"

Author's Note:
Yes, I took slight creative license with the "Speak Now" lyrics, but, only to suit Phil's perspective. All I did was turn a tux into a dress. Please enjoy the story, otherwise. :D

Speak Now

Well, today was the big day. Today, two of his team members were celebrating their love for one another by consecrating that love by joining together in holy matrimony. Jemma and Antoine had earned this day, by far. The whole team had been through so much, together. Clearing their names as fugitives … Rebuilding S.H.I.E.L.D. from the ground up … Leo's recovery from Ward's attempt to kill him and Jemma. Now was their time to take the time to do something purely for themselves and their own happiness. As their leader – and a father figure to the entire team – Phil Coulson should have been happy for his operatives. And, under other circumstances, he would have been. The only problem in this scenario was that Phil, himself, was truly, deeply, madly in love with the bride. Phil could still remember the day his entire world lay shattered around him.

Things were just beginning to get back to normal for 'Team Coulson'. They were no longer fugitives and S.H.I.E.L.D. was well on its way to becoming bigger and better than it had ever been before. And, despite all the hardships the team had been through to get to where they were … two of the operatives had found solace and comfort in one another. Through the gray skies above them, their love had managed to grow and bloom into something amazing. And, there, in the common area of The Bus, Antoine Triplett had gotten down one knee – gazing hopefully up into the eyes of the woman he loved – and asked the one, simple, question that would change their lives forever. "Jemma Simmons … Would you do me the extraordinary honor of making me the single happiest man on Earth … And, will you marry me?"

Staring down, in shock, at the agent kneeling before her, Jemma's eyes were drawn to the beautiful engagement ring with a twisted shank and a half-carat center diamond surrounded by a halo setting – decorated by accent stones along the shank. Tears streaming down her cheeks, the biochemist covered her mouth with her hands as she frantically nodded her head 'yes'.

Grinning from ear-to-ear, Antoine leapt to his feet – sweeping his now fiancé into his arms, swinging her around in celebration as they lost themselves in the excited cheers from their friends. To his credit, Phil put on a convincing act as he cheered the newly engaged couple on. Meanwhile, inside, his world was falling apart. He knew it was insane. His feelings for the biochemist had always been clandestine – never spoken aloud. He had no claim over her. So, he just stood back, and pretended to be happy for her – because he was. At the end of the day, Jemma was happy. And, that was good enough. It had to be.

Now, standing in front of the mirror, Phil straightened his tie as he examined his tux. Feeling satisfied with his appearance. With a light sigh, he took his leave as he went to join the rest of the team to travel to the wedding. The church was beautiful. Truly, it was. Even Phil had to admit that. Skye and Melinda had disappeared into the dressing rooms with the rest of the bridesmaids and Jemma, herself, while Leo had gone off to join the other groomsmen and Tripp, leaving Coulson to wander the chapel, alone with his thoughts. Even though he'd never acted upon his feelings for Jemma, this was the type of place he'd always imagined marrying her in. It was classic and elegant, with a timeless air about it. Lost in his thoughts, Phil was soon brought back to reality when the other guests began filing in. With a heavy sigh, he left to take his seat inside the chapel. Without the rest of the team by his side to question his actions, Phil settled himself into a seat in the back of the chapel – reasoning that, sitting next to the aisle, he'd be among the first to see Jemma walking down the aisle. Finally, the ceremony got underway as soft music began to play.

Friends are quiet angels | Who lift us to our feet | When our wings have trouble remembering how to fly | They stand by us | And, give us the strength to try

As Skye emerged through the doors on the arm of their very own Leo Fitz in her pink floor length satin dress with a ruched bodice, sweetheart neckline and trumpet skirt decorated with structured pleats, Phil couldn't help thinking how beautiful she looked. As they reached the end of the aisle and each took their places at the aisle, Phil's attention was drawn back to the door as the bridesmaids and groomsmen prepared to make their grand entrances.

Friends are quiet angels | Who somehow make you see | The light that's in the darkness | Before the dawn | All at once the journey's not so long

The next pair through the doorway was Melinda and Antoine's younger cousin. Phil couldn't help but smile – both at the thought that he was looking at Melinda May wearing the same soft, feminine dress Skye wore and at the adorable pair the two made, walking down the aisle, arm-in-arm.

But, it's the laughter and the fun | Sometimes, the feeling that we're one | All the tears we cry together you and I | That will keep us heart to heart | As time goes by

As the second pair took their places at the altar, the small congregation all turned back to the doorway to await the arrival of the next 'couple'. Finally, they'd come to the arrival of the matron of honor and the best man as Jemma's older sister entered, wearing the same dress worn by Skye and Melinda, on the arm of Antoine's twin brother.

The music finally came to a stop as the matron of honor and best man took their places at the altar. This was it. The moment of truth. Closing his eyes, Phil slowly turned to face the doorway where Jemma would walk down the aisle on the arm of her father. Where she would walk down the aisle to her all-too-soon-to-be-husband. Phil had been both anxiously anticipating and dreading this moment from the moment Jemma and Tripp had gotten engaged. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the music began to play.

Look at the two of you, dancing that way | Lost in the moment and each other's face | So much in love, you're alone in this place | Like there's nobody else in the world

Watching as Jemma stepped through the doorway, on her father's arm took Phil's breath away. This was the first time he'd ever seen her in her wedding dress, the veil, the whole nine yards. The dress cascaded down to the floor in a beautiful mermaid silhouette. The dropped waist gave Jemma a beautifully elongated torso while the beaded and jeweled sweetheart neckline and illusion bodice gave the bride a breath-taking royal look. The side swept ruffles in the skirt – topped off with the same jeweled beading from the neckline and the corset back pulled the entire look together. The all over lace gave the dress a perfectly timeless and elegant look. The cathedral length veil, adorned with an ornate pattern made of the same lace on her dress flowed behind her, looking almost ethereal atop the chapel train on her dress. And, the delicate tiara atop her head completed her fairytale Disney princess look. Her beautiful auburn locks were swept back into an ornate curled half-up-half-down style underneath her elaborate veil.

Phil knew the song was about the love a father held for his daughter. But, he also couldn't help noticing how perfectly they captured his own feelings for Jemma. The veteran agent had always told him that his feelings toward the young biochemist were purely parental. She was just a daughter figure to him. Nothing more. But, deep down, he'd always known that to be a lie. The line about being careful when you hold my girl, spoke to the night Tripp had asked for Coulson's blessing to propose to Jemma. Not only had he warned Tripp that – should he ever hurt Jemma, he'd be sorry his father'd ever met his mother. That night had torn him apart even more than the actual proposal – than the whole wedding. That was the night he gave someone else permission to marry the owner of his heart. But, as Jemma passed by him, on her way down the aisle, he couldn't help noticing the strange look she gave him. Where he'd expected an elated, cloud-nine-worthy smile … All he got was a facial expression that spoke of 'help me'. But, that had to be wishful thinking on Phil's part. Right? But, something in Phil wouldn't let him escape the little voice in his head wondering if Jemma realized she was marrying the wrong man.

Watching Jemma walk down the aisle with her father, Phil just couldn't shake that look out his head. Stop it, Coulson! The senior agent scolded himself. It's just wishful thinking! You just want her to realize this is a mistake! He told himself.

Once again, the lyrics of the processional song were speaking to him. The moment he'd first seen Jemma and Tripp together, Phil knew. It was only a matter of time before it came to this. Time and circumstances. Phil just couldn't help hating himself for not acting upon his feelings. Watching Jemma marry Antoine was nothing compared to the feeling of never knowing where he truly stood with the young biochemist.

Watching the bridal party all smiling as they watched the bride making her way down the aisle, Phil couldn't escaped the pang of guilt he felt knowing that – try as he might – he just wasn't a big enough man to share the sentiments. A small part of him would always resent Antoine Triplett for stealing Jemma away from him. He knew it was petty. But, he just couldn't help the way he felt.

As the music came to a stop, Jemma stood at the altar – still on her father's arm – as the pastor began to speak. "We are gathered here, today, in the sight of God and the angels, and the presence of friends and loved ones, to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our best wishes and blessings to the words which shall unite Jemma Annelise Simmons and Antoine Caelen Triplett in holy matrimony."

Listening to the pastor's grand welcome speech, everything was finally becoming real. It was really happening. Jemma was really marrying Tripp. That realization was almost too much for Phil to bear. Sneaking out had definitely crossed Phil's mind. But, he knew how much it meant to Jemma for him to be there. And, he'd be damned if he'd let her down. … Even if it killed him.

Completely oblivious to the internalized agony in the back row, the pastor continued smiling as he pressed onward with his speech. "Marriage is a most honorable estate, created and instituted by God, signifying unto us the mystical union, which also rests between Christ and the Church, so too may this marriage be adorned by true and abiding love."

Phil had to admit that the speech was moving. Glancing around the chapel, there wasn't a dry eye in the house – including his own. At least no one will question mine. Phil thought to himself, bitterly as the priest continued speaking.

"Should there be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united in marriage, they must speak now or forever hold their peace." That was it. Those twenty-five little words sparked a light bulb in his head. This is my chance. This was his final chance to finally silence all of the little 'what if's in his head. Finally, standing up on shaking legs, Phil watched as all eyes zeroed in on him. Damn … He thought to himself, nervously. It was the first time the veteran S.H.I.E.L.D. agent had felt nervous in years.

The entire chapel remained dead silent as Phil strolled down the aisle to the altar. Jemma and Antoine both turned to face him – as did the entire congregation – but Phil could only see Jemma. "I'm sorry, Jemma." Phil uttered, timidly, stopping just a few feet in front her and her father. "I'm sorry … But, I just can't let you marry Antoine without knowing how I feel about you." A chorus of shocked gasps sounded throughout the church.

Inside, Jemma was jumping for joy. As much as she cared for Antoine … Part of her always wished he was Phil. "Phil?" The beautiful young bride breathed, shocked, without realizing her use of his first name. "What d'you think you're doing?"

"Jemma … I love you." And, there it was. The big bombshell had finally dropped. "I love you and I can't stand the thought of you marrying someone else without knowing how I felt about you." Phil elaborated. It was like a dam had burst and all of the built-up clandestine feelings he'd kept bottled up for far too long came flooding out. "Never – in my life – have I ever felt more alive than I did the moment I met you. The day you came into my life … It was like the one piece of myself that had been missing finally fell into place and made me truly feel whole for the first time in my life."

Calvin Simmons was completely blown away. He'd always known that his daughter had held a special place within her boss and mentor's heart. But, he'd also just thought that Phil Coulson was an exceptionally caring and protective man. But, hearing all the things he was saying about his daughter made him realize that – despite the age difference – this was the type of man he'd always pictured giving his precious little girl away to. Antoine Triplett was a good man – and, he had no doubts in his mind that he'd be good to his little girl. But, Phil Coulson's words were bringing tears to his eyes.

Uncertain, Jemma knew there was one thing she was absolutely certain of. And, that was the fact that she was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with Phillip Coulson. Deep down, she'd always known that she'd only ever settled for Antoine because she'd always thought that Phil would only ever see her as a daughter figure. But, now – here she was, on the cusp of marrying her second choice only to have the man that had held her heart in the palm of his hands, stopping her wedding and declaring his love for her. Part of her was a little embarrassed and a tiny bit put off that he'd chosen that moment to do it. But, she just couldn't escape the feeling of pure, unadulterated elation that Phil actually returned her feelings for him. Shifting her gaze from her father – seeing the approval in his eyes – to her fiancé – seeing the horror in his eyes – and to Phil – seeing nothing but pleading hope, desperation and love shining in their piercing blue orbs – Jemma knew she had to make a choice. And, she knew what that choice would be. Turning to her father, she shifted her bouquet to one hand so that she could take her father's hand in her own.

Seeing the question in his daughter's eyes, Calvin Simmons knew in his heart that his daughter was just as in love with her mentor as her mentor was with her. He knew she'd never be as happy with Antoine as she would be with Phil. "Go ahead, baby." Calvin replied, gently, sealing his approval with a kiss to her forehead.

Throwing her arms around her father's neck, Jemma whispered in his ear, "Thank you, daddy." Pulling away from her father, Jemma stepped up onto the altar – before all their family and friends and stood for before her would-be groom. "Antoine … You know that I've always cared for you. From the moment you first walked into all of our lives, there was always a special connection between us. And, I know that you could make me happy everyday for the rest of our lives – there isn't a doubt in my mind about that."

Listening to Jemma's words to her would-be groom, Phil felt his heartbreaking. To him, it sounded, for all the world, like she was choosing Antoine over him. And, that really shouldn't have come as such a shock to him. He'd seen the way she felt about Antoine the entire time they'd been dating. He really should have known she would pick him. Staring down at the floor, Phil had to look away for a moment to wipe a tear from his eye as he braced himself for the impending let down.

"But, I've also always known, in my heart, that my heart has always belonged to Phil." Whoa, wait, what?! Phil's eyes immediately snapped back up at those words. Could he really be hearing what he was thinking he was hearing, could he? "Knowing what I know, now, that Phil returns my feelings for him … I just can't let myself settle for anything less than that." It was! It was really happening! Jemma was choosing him. Phil was still torn, though. He considered Antoine a friend and had never intended to hurt him by stealing his bride. But, on the other hand, he couldn't deny how happy he felt knowing that Jemma returned his feelings for her. "I'm so sorry, Antoine. I swear, hurting you was never my intention – you must know that."

Sighing, Antoine knew he had no choice but to admit defeat. Deep down, he'd always felt as though Jemma's heart had never truly lied with him. He just never knew that Phil Coulson would be the true owner of Jemma's heart. At the end of the day, all he cared about was that Jemma was happy and that she ended up with a good man that would go to the ends of the Earth to take care of and protect her. And, he knew that Phil Coulson would be that man. There was never a doubt in his mind. Stepping down from the altar, Antoine stopped just before Phil. "Congratulations, Phil." The specialist sighed, extending his hand in resignation. "Looks like the best man won."

"Antoine, I need you to know that this was never my intent." Phil replied, sincerely. "I never meant to break your relationship apart." Sighing, Phil elaborated further. "I just … I couldn't handle all of the 'what if's that came from never telling Jemma how I truly feel about her. I never once thought she'd choose me over you." He apologized, with a quick shake of Antoine's hand.

Releasing Phil's hand, Antoine nodded "I know that, Coulson." He replied "At the end of the day, all that matters to me is that Jemma's happy and cared for and I know you'll do that and so much more for her." Phil truly could not believe that Antoine was being so gracious about the whole thing. "Which is why …" The would-be groom trailed off, stepping back up to the altar to take the rings from the ring bearer. " … I want you to take these." He finished, passing the wedding rings over to Phil. "Now, you can do this today, tomorrow, or fifty years from now …" He added, hoping not to pressure the new couple. "Just make sure you do right by our girl."

Gratefully accepting the proffered rings, Phil nodded, swallowing down the lump in his throat. "Thank you." He finally replied, his voice thick with emotion. "I will."

Nodding his approval, Antoine turned to Jemma. With a gentle kiss on her cheek, he finally spoke, "I wish you all the best." Having said his piece, the would-have-been groom proceeded back down the aisle toward the exit. Once Antoine had taken his leave, Jemma turned back to Phil.

"So … What d'we do, now?" The bride asked, awkwardly, suddenly far more keenly aware of the crowd of family and friends all watching her.

After a brief, awkward silence, Calvin spoke once more. "I say why let a perfectly good wedding go to waste?" As Phil and Jemma – along with the entire bridal party – turned to stare at him in wonder. "You're here, looking far and away more beautiful than I could ever imagine …" The father of the bride replied, smiling at his radiant daughter. "You're here, saying all the things I'd ever want a future son-in-law to say about my daughter …" He added, smiling at Phil. "And, looking at the two of you, I get the feeling you'd end up here, one day, anyway …" He reasoned. "So, why not skip the added expense of a whole new wedding and just put this one to good use?"

Considering her father's offer, Jemma turned to Phil. "What d'you think, Phil?" She asked, curiously.

Smiling at his beautiful bride, Phil knew he'd waited long enough to meet Jemma Simmons. He didn't want to wait another moment to marry her. "I'm ready whenever you are." He smiled.

Smiling excitedly, Jemma replied "I'm ready."

"May I continue with this wedding, then?" The pastor interjected, playfully.

"Oh, yes, Father … Of course." Jemma giggled, quickly resuming her place by her father as Phil stepped up to the place at the altar that Antoine had once occupied.

"Please … Continue." Phil replied, only slightly awkwardly as the rest of the congregation chuckled.

"Good." The priest smiled, turning back to face the congregation. "Well, as I was saying … We are now gathered here, today, in the sight of God and the angels, and the presence of friends and loved ones, to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our best wishes and blessings to the words which shall unite Jemma Annelise Simmons and Phillip Coulson in holy matrimony." The priest added, repeating his speech from the beginning. Meanwhile, Phil and Jemma could only stare at one another, blown away that this day that neither of them ever imagined would even be possible – had finally arrived.

"Marriage is a most honorable estate, created and instituted by God, signifying unto us the mystical union, which also rests between Christ and the Church, so too may this marriage be adorned by true, abiding love." The congregation couldn't help the small chuckled at the new emphasis the repeated speech. "Now … Should there be anyone with cause why this couple should not be united in marriage, they must speak now or forever hold their piece." The congregation had to laugh as the bridesmaids all glared at the crowd, daring anyone to say anything.

Finally, as everyone remained seated, the priest grinned as he pressed onward with the ceremony. "Who is it that brings this woman to this man?" He asked, smiling at Jemma and her father.

Smiling at his daughter, Calvin Simmons took her hand in his own as he escorted her onto the altar platform. "Her mother and I do." He replied, placing Jemma's hand in Phil's. Turning to Phil, he couldn't resist adding in one final comment. "Take care of my little girl, Phil." He warned, though his voice was thick with emotion.

"I will." Phil swore, with the same, thick voice, taking Jemma's hand in his own as she passed the bouquet off to Skye.

"Jemma and Phil, life is given to each of us as individuals, and yet we must learn to live together." Phil and Jemma both knew the importance of that lesson. They both knew neither of them would have made it this far without learning to live and work together as one with their team – and, with each other. "Love is given to us by our family and friends. We learn to love by being loved." Once again, Phil and Jemma could both understand that sentiment. Neither of them could have come this far in their lives without the love and support of their family and friends – Phil, in particular – after losing all of the friends and family he'd had before his untimely demise. "Learning to love and living together is one of life's greatest challenges and is the shared goal of a married life." Gazing into each other's eyes, Phil and Jemma both knew that would most assuredly not be a problem.

"But, a husband and wife should not confuse love of worldly measures for even if worldly success is found, only love will maintain a marriage." Skye and Melinda watched their mentor and their best friend pledging their love and becoming united as one. They'd both seen the underlying feelings between the two and could not have been happier to finally see those feelings coming to fruition. Looking over at their ever-stoic pilot, Skye had to smile watching her wipe a few stray tears from her eyes. Skye, herself, had had to stop to dry her own misty eyes more than once. They all knew that Phil and Jemma would go the distance – that nothing could ever tear them apart. "Mankind did not create love; love is created by God. The measure of true love is a love both freely given and freely accepted just as God's love of us is unconditional and free." Staring into the eyes of the woman he loved, Phil couldn't think of a love truer or freer than the love he felt for Jemma. And, by the look in her eyes, he knew she felt the same.

"Today truly is a glorious day the Lord hath made – as, today, you are both blessed with God's greatest of all gifts – the gift of abiding love and devotion between a man and a woman. All present, here, today – and, those here in heart – wish both of you all the joy, happiness and success the world has to offer." The priest had to pause as the congregation erupted in applause – publicly displaying their support of the new couple.

"As you travel through life, together, I caution you to remember that the true measure of success, the true avenue to joy and peace, is to be found within the love you hold in your hearts." The priest added, picking up where he'd left off after the applause died down. Looking at Jemma, in all her radiant beauty, Phil knew the last statement to be true. No measure of worldly success could ever hold a candle to the feeling having her there by his side to celebrate it with him. "I would ask that you hold the key to your heart very tightly." Kinda hard to do that when Jemma already stole it the moment I met her. Phil grinned, to himself, silently.

"Within the Bible, nothing is of more importance than love." The pastor continued onward. "We are told the crystalline and beautiful truth: 'God is love.' We are assured that 'love conquers all'." That was absolutely true in their case. There had been so many hurdles thrown their way that neither of them could have ever risen above without another. "It is love which brings you here, today, the union of two hearts and two spirits. As your lives continue to interweave as one pattern, remember that it was love that brought you here, today, it is love that will make this a glorious union, and it is love which will cause this union to endure." Watching the newly formed couple standing before the pastor, every single person in that church knew that they would make it.

Turning to face Phil and Jemma, the pastor addressed them, specifically. "Would you please face each other and join hands?" He asked, watching as Jemma moved to stand directly before Phil, taking his hands into her own as instructed. There, in that moment, holding the hands of the woman he loved above all else … It finally became real for Phil. This is really happening … I'm really doing it … He thought to himself, ecstatically. I'm actually marrying Jemma Simmons. Turning to face Phil, the pastor addressed him, specifically. "Phillip, do you take Jemma to be your wife? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only to her forevermore?"

There it was. The single easiest question of his life. Smiling, Phil stared directly into the eyes of the woman he loved as he responded. "I do." His simple, solemn vow sealed his life-long devotion to his bride.

Turning to face Jemma, the pastor repeated the same question. "Jemma … Do you take Phil to be your husband? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish, and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only to him forevermore?"

Smiling the truest, purest smile of her life, Jemma squealed her response. "I do."

Smiling as he returned his attention the congregation, the pastor addressed the crowd as a whole. "Now, I know this reading was chosen by the bride for the original groom … But I know the reading well and I believe it better suits her and her newly chosen husband far better, so, if the lovely Ms. Skye wouldn't mind too terribly much …" He added, turning to Skye to gesture her forward to do the reading.

Passing the bouquet over to Melinda, Skye smiled as she stepped up to the podium where the printout of her reading awaited her. However, she she couldn't resist stopping to give the bride and groom a quick hug. Leaning forward, she whispered into Phil's ear "Epic timing, AC." before giving him a kiss on the cheek as she proceeded to take her place at the podium. Clearing her throat, she addressed the crowd. "I know you're all expecting a big, romantic reading and I promise I will not let you down." She began, only slightly nervous. "But, I just have to say … I've known Phil and Jemma for a long time, now … And, even though neither of them ever acted on it, I think we all knew there was something between them. But, until today, it was always like the Loch Ness monster. Maybe something's there, maybe it isn't. We may never know." She elaborated, gaining in confidence. "But, it's always fun to creep yourself out, thinking about it." If she was nervous before, those feelings were blown away by the roaring round of laughter erupting from the audience – which was totally worth the death glare from the groom. As the laughter died down, Skye sobered up and got back to her original point. "But, all jokes aside, I could not be happier for the two of them. They've been through so much to get to where they are, now – we've all been through so much – that I can't think of two people more deserving a fairytale ending than Phil Coulson and Jemma Simmons. And, with that being said, I'll just get on with the reading …" The hacker paused to gather materials together before she began to read.

"'Til Death Do Us Part', by Carol D. Bos. …" With a steadying breath, Skye began the reading. "I hope it is decades before death parts us … But, I don't know what God has in mind … I pray that He'll let us be happy, always … But, I can't comprehend plans divine …" Listening to the words of text Skye was reading, Phil and Jemma both knew how poignant those words were for S.H.I.E.L.D. agents like them. "It may be that turmoil may dot our landscape … With it's gray skies and swirling intrusion … It may be that joy will fill both our hearts … And, we'll think that pain is just an illusion …"

Jemma had chosen this reading for the lines about turmoil dotting the landscape. She knew what Phil had been through with Project T.A.H.I.T.I. and knew that the very same thing could have happened to any of them. Their lives as S.H.I.E.L.D. agents were always notoriously unpredictable. But, she knew that with the right man by her side, she could weather any storm.

"But, I think it's likely that we'll see some of each … As we walk on this pathway together … I promise you now: I will give all I have … From my mouth, you'll not hear the word 'Never' …" That passage evoked memories Jemma's battle with an unknown alien virus and how she'd very nearly sacrificed herself for the team. The look in Phil's eyes when she'd made him promise to tell her father the news, first, nearly tore Jemma apart. But, as much as it killed him to make that promise, Phil had given her his solemn word. He'd been willing to destroy his own happiness for something she felt she needed to do. That had been the moment she'd known her love for him was the real deal.

"With so much uncertainty, crime, and abuse that exists, everywhere, all around us … More than ever, we need to hold fast to the truth of our marriage … Life will not confound us …" Looking into Jemma's eyes, Phil knew the words to be true. No matter what life threw their way, they would always take solace in one another. That was more than he could have ever hoped for in his life.

"Time together is fleeting; it is too scarce to waste … My goal is to make my life-mission a beautiful tapestry of 'us' … Sewn with threads of our human condition …" Looking over to her two friends starting a life, together, Skye knew poignancy of these words for them. They'd both been through far more than any average person or couple should ever have to go through. But, it'd always made them stronger and brought them closer together. "I want to explore the full spectrum of life … Before we're too close to its leaving … I want to embrace vast explosions of joy … That make both our hearts strong and heaving …"

Looking into one another's eyes, Phil and Jemma both knew those words were everything they ever wanted for the life, together. And, only together would they make those plans and dreams come true.

"I know I will love you for all of my life … No matter the time we are given … I'm your 'til death parts us–left all alone– … Until God reunites us in Heaven." Wiping the stray tears from her eyes, Skye could only smile as she saw Phil and Jemma lost in each other's eyes. For all they cared, they were the only two people in the world.

Looking into the eyes of the woman he loved, Phil knew this was it for him. If God's plan was to ultimately take Jemma away from him one day, he would never love another woman the way he loved her. Whether she was with him, here, on Earth or waiting for him to join her in Heaven, Phil knew that Jemma would always be the one and only woman to ever hold his heart.

Gazing up into the piercing blue eyes that had haunted her dreams many a night, Jemma knew the last passage of the poem was particularly fitting for her feelings for Phil. And, knowing that Phil had already died once, she knew that the possibility that he could be taken from her was a very real and ever-present danger. And, she also knew that – if that ever did happen – she'd never find another 'Phil Coulson'. This would be her one and only wedding day. She could never love another the way she loved Phil. She wouldn't even want to try.

As Skye reclaimed her place at the bride's side of the altar, and the flowers from Melinda, she watched as the priest continued on with the wedding ceremony. "Well, that was very lovely and unarguably touching." The priest pressed onward with the vows as he turned to Phil. "Phil … Please repeat after me … 'I, Phillip, take thee, Jemma, to be my wife."

Following the Father's orders, Phil repeated the pastor's words. "I, Phillip, take thee, Jemma, to be my wife."

"To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore." The priest added, completing the groom's portion of the vows.

"To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore." Phil repeated, swallowing back the emotional lump in his throat, fighting back the tears of joy that refused to be held in.

Smiling fondly at Phil, the priest turned his attention to the bride. "Jemma … Please repeat after me." He spoke, giving Jemma the same orders he'd just given Phil moments before. "I, Jemma, take thee, Phillip, to be my husband."

As the uncontrollable smile spread across her face, Jemma followed the instructions given to her as she stared straight into the eyes of the man she loved. "I, Jemma, take thee, Phillip, to be my husband."

"To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you, forevermore." The Father, added, completing the bride's share of the vows.

"To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you, forevermore." Jemma replied, meaning every word of her vows with the very fiber of her being.

Turning to face Phil, the priest grinned as he asked "Now, Phil … I believe you have something for your blushing young bride?" He spoke, gesturing to the breast pocket of Phil's suit jacket.

"Oh, yes!" Phil declared, after taking a moment to gather his thoughts. "The rings!" He added, much to the amusement of everybody in the chapel. Fishing the rings from his pocket, he took Jemma's ring into his hand as he prepared to place it on her finger.

"Now … Once again … Repeat after me, please." The Father spoke, warmly. "Jemma … Take this ring …"

"Jemma … Take this ring …" Phil replied, suddenly more nervous and anxious than he could ever recall feeling.

" … As a sign of my love and fidelity." The priest added, smiling as he watched the young couple before him.

" … As a sign of my love and fidelity." Phil finished, with a relieved sigh as he slid the ring onto Jemma's finger, in front of her engagement ring. The curve of the wedding band fit the grooves of her engagement ring beautifully as Phil looked up at her face and smiled.

As Jemma took Phil's wedding ring in her hand and prepared to slide it onto Phil's finger, the pastor smiled at her as he gave her the same orders he'd just given Phil. "Jemma … Please repeat after me … Phillip, take this ring …"

"Phillip … Take this ring …" Jemma repeated, gazing into the piercing blue eyes of the man she loved.

" … As a sign of my love and fidelity." The Father finished.

" … As a sign of my love and fidelity." Jemma smiled, sliding the ring nervously before visibly relaxing when the ring which had originally been intended for Antoine Triplett, fit Phil Coulson perfectly.

Shifting his gaze between the bride and groom, the priest spoke again. "Jemma and Phillip, the two candles symbolize your separate lives, your separate families and sets of friends …" He began, gesturing to the altar behind him where two taper candles set upon the backs of two carriage horses while a third, larger, candle rest on the top of the carriage drawn by the two horses. "I ask that you each take take one candle and that, together, you light the center candle. The individual candles represent your individual lives before today. Lighting the center candle represents that your two lives are now joined to one light, and represents the joining together of your two families and sets of friends to one."

Following the orders given to them, Phil and Jemma held hands as they approached the unity candle set as Skye once again stepped up to a mic off to the side of the altar platform while soft music began to play. After a brief, musical introduction, Skye's surprisingly beautiful voice began to sing.

As he took his individual candle in his hands, Phil smiled as he watched Jemma do the same. He was still reeling from the sheer shock of everything that had happened. When he'd stood up to confess his feelings for her, he'd just assumed that Jemma would have been flattered – if not a little mortified – and would have let him down, gently. Never, in a million years would he have dreamt that the enchanting young biochemist would actually reciprocate his feelings for her. And, he definitely never thought that his impromptu confession would lead to him taking Antoine's place in the wedding as the groom. But, looking at his bride as they simultaneously lit the center unity candle, he knew he wouldn't have it any other way.

Watching as Phil took his own individual candle in his hand to light the center candle with her, Jemma couldn't believe all that had happened, that day. She never expected her boss, mentor, and dear friend to stand up – at her wedding – and declare his love for her. She'd never even expected him to reciprocate her feelings for him. But, here it was. She was actually marrying the true love of her life. And, she couldn't have been happier. She honestly felt like a Disney princess marrying her prince charming.

Watching her two friends uniting themselves and their lives as one, Skye couldn't resist smiling as the happy tears streaked down her cheeks. Whether she'd been the only one to see it or not, she'd never really know, but, she'd always seen something going on between the biochemist and the senior agent. But, she'd begun to think neither of them would ever act upon it – despite her desperate pleas to do so. But, here they were. Joining together in the most sacred union of holy matrimony. It looked like every one's dreams were finally coming through.

Once the unity candle had been lit, Phil and Jemma proceeded to make the rounds, hugging and celebrating with each of the friends and family. Both in the bridal party as well as the family members seated across the front row.

To his surprise, Jemma's mother had pulled him into a tight hug when he'd offered her his hand and gave him a light peck on the cheek with the same request to take care of her baby girl. After assuring her that he would indeed take care of Jemma every day for the rest of her life, they'd both moved onto her father. After kissing his daughter on the cheek, Calvin looked to Phil. After smiling and shaking the groom's hand, he allowed the young couple to return to their places at the altar. After the music had come to a stop and Skye resumed her place alongside the other bridesmaids, the priest spoke again.

"Phillip and Jemma, in so much as the two of you have agreed to live together in Matrimony, have promised your love to each other by these vows, the giving of these rings and the joining of your hands, I now declare you to be husband and wife." With the declaration of husband and wife, the entire congregation erupted in applause – as well as the entire bridal party. Once the applause died down, the priest spoke, once more. "May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up his countenance unto you and give you peace."

Well, peace would certainly be a welcome change. Phil thought himself, smiling uncontrollably as stared into the eyes of his new wife. Although, it was true. After all the battles they'd fought, together, a little peace might be nice for a change. Although, when had the word 'peace' ever really been used to describe the life of a S.H.I.E.L.D. director?

Meanwhile, Jemma could only smile as she realized her sweetest dreams were coming true. She was actually married to Phillip Coulson – the man who'd stolen her heart the moment she'd met him. It was all so surreal. And, then, the priest spoke the words that changed her life, forever, all over again.

Turning to Phil, the priest grinned as he spoke. "Congratulations, you may kiss your bride." Turning to face Jemma, Phil smiled as he gently cupped either side of her face as he gently lowered his own – eyes gliding closed – as he rose to new heights of ecstasy the moment his lips touched hers. In that moment, the rest of the world disappeared. They never even noticed the second round of applause that erupted at the sight of their kiss. Once the bride and groom finally parted, the priest turned to address the congregation as he rose his arms behind Phil and Jemma. "I present to you … Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Coulson!" Bridal party and guests alike all continued to cheer as the recessional music began to play while Phil and Jemma made their way down the aisle as husband and wife.

I went to see her dad for a sit down, man to man | Wasn't any secret, I'd be askin' for her hand | I guess that's why he left me waitin', in the livin' room by myself | With at least a dozen pictures of her, sittin' on a shelf

Once Phil and Jemma had cleared the aisle, Skye and Leo left their places to join arms at the front of the aisle as they two proceeded to make their exit down the aisle.

She was playin' Cinderella | She was ridin' her first bike | Bouncin' on the bed and lookin' for a pillow fight | Runnin' through the sprinkler, with a big popsicle grin | Dancin' with her dad, lookin' up at him | In her eyes, I'm Prince Charming, but, to him, I'm just some fella | Ridin' in and stealin' Cinderella

As the first chorus came to a close, Melinda took the arm of Antoine's younger cousin as they, too, took their leave.

With Melinda and her groomsman out the door, Jemma's older sister took the arm of the best man as they proceeded to take their leave.

Playin' Cinderella | She was riding her first bike | Bouncin' on the bed and lookin' for a pillow fight | Runnin' through the sprinkler, with a big popsicle grin | Dancin' with her dad, lookin' up at him | In her eyes, I'm Prince Charming, but, to him, I'm just some fella | Riding in and stealin' Cinderella

After the bridal party had all taken their leave, Antoine's parents – who had stayed, mostly out of curiosity as they'd never seen a wedding do a complete one-eighty with the bride marrying someone else … and … let's be honest … to see who she was leaving their son for – finally rose from their seats to take their leave. Jemma may not have married their son, in the end. But, they could tell that Phillip Coulson would be just as good to their would-have-been daughter-in-law. And, they could live with that.

Oh, he slapped me on the shoulder | Then, he called her in the room | When she threw her arms around him | That's when I could see it too

Watching Antoine's parents leaving the church, Calvin and his wife had to admit that they did feel bad for them – having sat there and watched their son's heart being broken in front of all their family and friends. But, in the end, the most important thing to them was their daughter's happiness. And, they knew that Jemma would never be truly happy with anyone other than Phillip Coulson. With that in mind, they rose from their seats to take their leave.

Once the bride and groom had been joined outside the chapel by their family and friends, the newly wed couple had been drowned in a sea of congratulations and celebratory cheers. Even though they were on cloud nine, right now, they weren't idiots. They knew not ever day would be as perfect as this one. But, Phil knew that Jemma was the one person he'd fight the most for. Just as Jemma knew she'd do the same for Phil. And, together, they'd always conquer any challenge thrown their way.

Author's Note:

Holy shitballs! I had no idea this would come to 16 pages long! This has been my single longest chapter/one-shot I think I've ever written! Well, I hope y'all enjoyed it! This was also the first wedding I've ever written (I believe) so, please, be gentle! Don't forget to read and review! And, if you wanna see more of what I got up my sleeve, new updates, and new stories, don't forget to subscribe! ~Skye Coulson