Three weeks, they had felt like an eternity. I had spent a lot of time reminiscing on the situations and events that led me to where I am today. A sea of memories and regrets. Today I am still alone; he's been gone for three weeks, no communication, and just desolate isolation. I rattle around this big house and every footstep echoes, every creak of the floorboards makes me hope he's home. I cried so much I now have no more tears to cry. I can't sing, or play the piano. I can't draw or sew. I haven't felt like food, so the kitchen remains unused. After my frenetic cleaning of the entire house, if anything I felt like a dark stain that could not be removed.

I never imagined life would be this bleak. I had lost the man I loved and had fallen out with Angie, Sherlock hated me, Mycroft was away, and my parents are still cruising round the world. The only person I had left to turn to was Greg, he'd been great. I'd called him one evening not sure of what I was doing.

"Hello?" Asked Greg.

"Greg, its Percy." I replied, quietly.

"Hello Percy, are you okay?"

"Umm, not really no. Everyone's gone." My voice cracked as the tears started to fall.

"What's happened?"

"I ruined everything, they've all left." Trying to control my voice thought the tears.

"Who has Percy?"

"Angie, Jim, Sherlock, Mycroft, my parents."

"Where are you?"

"Why?"

"I'm coming over, tell me the address." Those words sent a tiny spark of hope through me. I told Greg the address, he came over, and lent an ear, he let me cry and comforted me. I felt like a lost child, but Greg helped to add the plasters to stick me back together. Since that night, he's rung each day to make sure I was alright.

Waking up today was the hardest yet, today was the day I was supposed to get married, not only that it was the eighth year anniversary of being together with Jim. Yesterday I had found depressing, I had seen Angie's post on Facebook, 'I feel like I'm losing everything' I wanted to comfort her, but I didn't know what to say.

I heard the post fall onto the mat and shuffled down the hall to retrieve it. Every time I saw Jim's name it broke my heart a little more. I sound pathetic, but I feel pathetic; useless. I rifled through the letters and found one addressed to me. I opened it on autopilot. As I started reading, I began to feel more emotion in three worlds than I had in three weeks.

Darling,

You are cordially invited to the wedding of,

Mr. James Moriarty

to

Miss Persephone Elizabeth Holmes.

Your presence required at Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, County Galway on October 10th at 11pm.

Attached are your travel details. George will pick you up at 3pm.

JM.

I had to read the invitation five times before it sunk in, I hadn't noticed the other letters fall to the floor. He still loved me, he wanted to marry me, I was getting married today. I looked at the clock; it was 1:45 already. I had just over an hour to pack. I ran upstairs to the attic and found my case, as quickly as I could I scrambled through the bedroom into the enormous wardrobe. Two weeks ago, I sat in here and cried huddle in one of Jim's jumpers, not I was filled with nervous excitement. I pulled clothes down from hangers and folded as quickly as I could, I pulled out the box from La Perla containing my bridal underwear; I think this was the first real smile. I lay the box in the case carefully; I also pulled down the box containing my wedding shoes. I then ran into the bathroom, and filled my wash bag with all the essentials. I caught sight of myself in the mirror and realised how pale and sickly I was. I grabbed my make-up bag and handbag making sure I had everything I needed, chargers, phone, iPad, money, passport and keys. I looked at my open case and realised there was an important item missing, my dress. It had been tucked away in my sewing room in a garment bag. I hadn't been able to go in the room because of it, I tried and the reminder of what I had lost was too much. I took a deep breath and pushed the door open. I walked into the room cautiously, waiting for the moment, someone jumped out behind me and yelled 'Joke!' and I would be left shattered and alone again. I walked over to the garment bag and slowly unzipped it. Inside was the dress. A strapless corseted bodice the sat low on my back. The skirt flowed the floor, with a long train flaring out behind me. The dress was made of ivory coloured taffeta with lace and ribbon detailing in the bodice. The hem of the dress had intricate layers of silk and lace adding the effect of rivers of fabric. Carefully I picked up the garment bag and took it upstairs; I gently laid the dress into the bag with one fold so it would fit. I zipped up the case. I checked the time; I had twenty minutes to spare. I took the time to freshen up and restore myself.

Bang on three, the doorbell rang and George once again greeted me.

"Miss Percy, I have been instructed to drive you to the airport. You have the ticket already and all you need do is sit back and relax."

"Thank you George, you always are wonderful." I replied with a smile. I got into the car and pulled my phone out of my bag. I immediately pulled up Angie's number to call her when I stopped. She was away in America, and why would she want to hear from me? I put my phone away with a sigh and watched the city pass me by and change to motorway and finally into the large terminal building at Heathrow Airport. George collected my bag and helped me out the car.

"Have a wonderful trip Miss Percy."

"Thank you George; I'm sure I will." I replied with a smile and took my bag. I went to check in. I had an hour to kill before my flight boarded. I had so much pent up nervous energy. I just wanted to get to Jim, I couldn't wait to see him and marry him. I would spend the rest of my life proving how much I loved him.

I wondered round the duty free shops and marvelled at some of the things airports think flyers need to buy! I grabbed a coffee, looked at my watch and made my way to my gate. Each step making my heart lighter as it brought closer to Jim. I boarded the plan, sat in first class, and made myself relax. I slowly started counting backwards from 100 and fell asleep. An hour and a half later the airhostess gently woke me, telling me we were landing in fifteen minutes. All the calm I had channelled evaporated and butterflies exploded in my stomach. We landed at 7pm at Galway airport. I walked through customs, collected my bags, and followed the signs for the arrivals lounge. I wasn't sure what would happen next, I suppose I could rent a car, and then I saw a driver holding a sign for 'P. Holmes'. I walked over and asked.

"Excuse me; are you waiting for a Persephone Holmes?"

"Yes ma'am I am. Would you like me to take your bag?"

"Thank you." I followed the driver out and was met with a sleek black limousine, I slid inside and within a minute we'd set off. The journey to Kylemore would take another hour and a half.

"Ma'am, there is an envelope for you with further instructions from Mr. Moriarty."

"I have it, thank you...?"

"Gareth ma'am."

"Thank you Gareth."

I looked at the envelope and the butterflies doubled n number and excitement. I smile and opened it.

Darling,

When you arrive at Kylemore, you'll be taken to the bridal suite and anything you need will be provided. Come to the ruins in the Abbey gardens at 11:30pm. Soon it will be forever. Nothing will part us again.

JM.

I couldn't help the tears of joy from falling as I read his note over and over. This was real, it was really happening. I was going to get my happily ever after with the prince and the castle. Time was dragging, why weren't we driving as fast as possible? Finally, we arrived at Kylemore at nine. As soon as the limo's door was opened, I was whisked to the most luxurious room filled with four poser canopy bed and views over Kylemore Lough.

My first need was a shower. I stepped under the hot water and it helped wash away the final pieces of pain. I washed my body with my favourite shower gel; it was pink and smelled like candyfloss, so sweet and inviting. I deep cleansed my hair, after weeks of neglect, with my coconut shampoo and conditioner. The smells in the bathroom were delightful. Sweet and girly, yet a hint of the exotic. I got out of the shower and dried off. I wrapped a towel round my long hair. As I re-entered the room, waiting for me, was a stylist, called Amy, to help me. I asked her to dry and straighten my hair as I did my make-up. I kept my hair long and loose. My eyes were smoky silver with a hint of sparkle when it caught the light. The only jewellery I wore was my locket, my engagement ring on my left hand and my moonstone ring on my right. In my ears, I wore my favourite diamond earrings that Jim had bought me for our fifth anniversary. Looking at the clock it was already ten minutes to eleven. I just had time to get into my dress. The stylist tightened the back of the dress for me so it fit snugly. I spent five minutes looking in the mirror and I knew I was ready; I was ready to marry James Moriarty and be a worthy partner to stand by his side through thick and thin. I smiled and thanked Amy. I walked through the quiet Abbey and into the grounds following the trails of fairy lights to the ruins in the Abbey gardens.

As I reached the ruins I was met by the most beautiful sight, the ruins covered in ivy and lilies. Fairy lights wrapped around the broken arches and pillars twinkling in the moonlight. I looked up and saw a silvery full moon shining down on the clearing. Candles and petals created a wide aisle leading to some steps. On the top step stood the registrar and two steps below stood the one person who lit my life up, James. He wore a black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and black bowtie, everything tailored to perfection. He was so handsome I couldn't look away. I was partly conscious that a person was stood next to me.

"Percy, dear sister, would let me walk you down the aisle?" I turned suddenly at the voice, seeing Mycroft.

"Mycroft, you're here." I exclaimed and pulled him into a tight embrace. Mycroft had always been there when I needed him. "Of course, I'd be honoured if you gave me away."

"Then let's not keep your groom waiting, he's anxious to see you. I'm happy for you Percy, have a happy life together." I took Mycroft's offered arm and smiled up at him, his blessing meant the world to me. Walking up the aisle felt like an endless journey, but when I reached the end it was perfect, the candlelight and moonlight giving the whole scene and ethereal quality, I felt surround my warmth, magic, safety and love. Mycroft placed my hands in Jim's; I felt that spark of electricity that had always connected us as our skin connected, both smiling at each other. The registrar began.

"We chosen few are gathered here to witness the union of James Moriarty to Persephone Elizabeth Holmes. This dark and beautiful evening will hold fast in your memories forever as you bind yourselves to each other in love and unity. If you'd like to say your vows, James will you begin?"

"Percy, you have been my companion, lover, and best friend for the last eight years. I couldn't have asked for a better partner in this life. You have supported me, pushed me, inspired me, and loved me. I am so blessed to have your love and believe myself to be one of the luckiest people alive. I love you more each day, and am happier with you than I can hope to express. I, James Moriarty, take you, Persephone Elizabeth Holmes to be my lawfully wedded wife, my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. When you came into my life you set it alight and bring a shining brilliance to each day, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in every challenge, to honour and respect you, to laugh and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live."

Jim took the ring, a simple silver band, from Mycroft and slipped it on my left hand in front of my engagement ring. Jim's vows astounded tears and me formed in my eyes, I had to take a deep breath before I spoke.

"James, for almost eight years you have been my closest friend, most beloved companion and devoted lover, the other half of the world I inhabit. The moment I met you I loved you and each day that love grows stronger. I, Persephone Elizabeth Holmes take you, James Moriarty to be my lawfully wedded husband, my constant friend, my faithful partner and my love from this day forward. You saved me, made me whole and happy, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in every challenge, to honour and respect you, to laugh and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live."

I took the other, larger silver band, from Mycroft and slid the ring onto Jim's left ring finger. I looked into his eyes and saw my happiness reflected back at me. The registrar spoke his final words.

"In as much as you have consented before us to become husband and wife, now, by virtue of the authority invested in me, I pronounce you now husband and wife, you may kiss the bride."

Jim leaned forward, and gently pressed his lips to mine. It was the most wonderful moment of my life. Time stopped and the world melted away as we revelled in our first moment as a married couple. We pulled apart and I looked up into Jim's eyes and laughed with joy, throwing my arms around his neck as his arms snaked round my waist and we held each other close. I was married to the man of my dreams, it was surreal, brilliant, wonderful, perfect, scary, and I had never been more in love.

"Congratulations little sister." Said Mycroft smiling.

"Thank you Mycroft, for everything, you are the best brother a girl could have." I replied hugging him again.

"Congratulations James, look after her, she's special."

"I know Mycroft, and thank you for your help." Replied Jim.

"I'll see you when you get home Mrs. Moriarty." Said Mycroft as he turned and left with the Registrar, disappearing into the darkness. Hearing my new surname me so happy, I couldn't contain the giggle that escaped my lips.

Music started from somewhere, playing 'Summertime' sung by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

"Dance with me Mrs Moriarty?"

"Anything for you Husband dearest." Jim held me close as we danced in the dying candlelight.

"I've never been happier." Admitted Jim.

"Me either. I'm so sorry about how I hurt you..." Jim cut me off.

"Shh, its forgiven and forgotten my love, tonight is for happy thoughts."

"I love you so much James." I confessed staring straight into his eyes.

"I love you too Percy Moriarty. Oh that has a nice ring to it." Smiled Jim. He leaned down and captured my lips with his and we stood kissing in the moonlight, knowing nothing but our love for each other.

As the night faded into the early hours Jim wrapped his jacket round my shoulders and we walked hand in hand back up to Kylemore. A contented silence had fallen between us we walked through the grounds. Jim ushered me thought the Abbey to the front of by the Lough side. As the rays of the sun rose they reflected on the water, it looked like liquid fire. The scene was so beautiful. Jim pulled me close and covered my mouth with his, kissing me passionately, my body responded immediately needing to be as close as possible to my husband, that thought alone made my body feel so alive. Jim moved his lips to my neck and ear, sending shivers down my spine. Our close proximity to each other only building the tension between us.

We couldn't keep our hands to ourselves as we tenderly touched and whispered sweet nothing's to each other we sat on the grass under a great willow tree and watched the sunrise on the first new day of our marriage, it was a magical moment, the world was at peace and slowly waking up. I felt so loved.

"Shall we go to our room my love?" Asked Jim.

"What a wonderful suggestion, lead the way." I replied coyly, smiling at Jim. Jim stood up and offered his hand to help me. We ventured back to the Abbey, our pace faster than before, and the gentle romance swiftly being replaced by our bubbling passion for each other.

We reached our room and the passion raised another notch. For the first time in years, I was nervous around Jim, now we married, being intimate meant so much more. Jim took his tuxedo jacket off of my shoulders and threw it over the back of a chair. I reached up and undid his bow tie. I stepped away and pulled my hair over one shoulder. As I turned I noticed Jim shed his shirt, I eyed him appreciatively.

"Darling can you help me?" I asked.

"Of course." I could feel Jim so close behind me, the heat of his body against mine, as he loosened the lacing, his fingers trailed down my spine, sending little shocks through my body. Every passing second the heat between us rose. Jim leaned forward kissing my shoulder wrapping his arms around my waist; my head fell back against his shoulder, my arms covering Jim's.

"Come to bed with me?" Whispered Jim into my ear.

"Yes." I breathed out.

As Jim stepped back my dress fell to the floor, pooling at my feet leaving me in my white bridal underwear. Jim took my hand leading me to the bed; butterflies flitted about in my stomach.

"You are so beautiful Percy." I smiled, blushing at his intense gaze.

"I love you Jim, so much and forever."

As the morning sun rose a young newlywed couple consummated their love and marriage. Blissful joy enveloped each lover as they became one. Both fell asleep in the others arms, safe, loved and happier than any pervious moment.

When I woke up I was so warm and happy. I looked at Jim lying next to me; he was so peaceful, his masculine beauty laid out for me to gaze upon wantonly. I kissed his forehead and wrapped the top sheet around my naked body and went into the bathroom. I stood in front of the mirror and looked at myself. I wasn't sure what I expected to see, a different Percy? Maybe a woman and not a girl? I was surprised when I looked the same, still me. I smiled as my rings caught the light, I still couldn't believe I was married, it had been perfect, quiet and intimate, beautiful and magical, just like our relationship. Strange and dark to the outside, but warm and filled with love at its heart. I walked back to bed and snuggled back next to Jim, lightly dozing. A little while later I felt Jim stir next to me.

"Good morning husband" I smiled.

"Good morning wife." He smiled back. I leant down and kissed him, revelling in our bubble of love.

"Did you sleep well?" Asked Jim.

"The best sleep of my life." I replied. Jim kissed me again, which led to our afternoon fading into the evening before we left our bed.

We spent a week at Kylemore Abbey, walking, reading, talking, reconnecting and making love. I was sad to leave our little piece of paradise and return to the real world. Once again, Gareth picked us up and drove us to the airport. We got onto our flight, which was made all the more stimulating by joining the mile high club, and landed in London at lunchtime. As we walked through the airport, I was sure I had seen Angie and Sherlock. My heart lurched as I saw them, all the dark emotions I had felt only a week previously retuned. I had so wanted to share my happiness with me.

"Everything alright sweetheart?"

"Hmm...yes, I thought I saw someone I recognised. Let's go home."