Hey guys! Here's the chapter I've been waiting to write - Finchel's wedding. I tried to make it the best I could since I only wanted the best wedding for Finchel, and I went through several versions of the same chapter. I'm so glad they're finally married. Enjoy and review if you want me to keep writing!
Chapter 57: The Finchel Wedding
Rachel walked to the Embassy Suites downtown, where her bachelorette party was being held. She wasn't involved much with the planning, and that was fine by her. She wanted it to be a surprise. She didn't know what Kurt and the girls had planned, but she was sure it would be great.
As Rachel walked into the hotel lobby, she saw Kurt and Kylie waiting there. "Hey!" Kurt said. "Ready to enjoy one of your last nights as a single woman?"
"Yeah," Rachel said. "So, what do you guys have planned?"
"You will see," Kylie said as she and Kurt led Rachel into a party room. Rachel saw girls from many different parts of her life there: her other bridesmaids, Santana, Mercedes, Tina, Quinn and Brittany were there, of course. But the girls who'd joined New Directions after graduation were there as well, as were Marissa, Taylor and Dani from her New York life.
"Hey guys!" Rachel said.
"Are you ready for your bachelorette party?" Kitty asked. "Maybe when they find out it's a bachelorette party, they'll let us have some wine."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that," Rachel laughed. "But let's go. It means a lot to me that all of you are here."
"You're part of the New Directions family, of course all of us are here," Marley said.
"And we convinced Rupert to call in one of the extras of the show to play Fanny so we could both be here," Taylor told Rachel.
"Awww!" Rachel said.
"Well, we do have dinner reservations," Kurt said. "Come on. Let's go!"
"Where are we having dinner?" Rachel asked.
"You will see!" Kurt said.
Kurt and the girls led Rachel to Sardi's. "I should have known," Rachel said.
"Of course," Kurt said. "Let's go in."
"It is weird being here without Finn," Rachel said.
"Well, we couldn't think of a more perfect place to have your bachelorette party dinner," Santana said. "Come on, let's go in."
x
"What do you guys have planned for my bachelor party?" Finn asked as he walked down the streets of New York with Sam and Blaine. "Can you at least give me a hint?"
"We'll just tell you we have a great night planned," Sam said.
"Where are the other guys?" Finn asked.
"They're waiting at our first destination," Blaine said.
"Oh, more than one destination?" Finn asked. "Curiousity is peeking."
"All right, we're at our first destination!" Sam declared as he, Blaine and Finn walked up to the Mets stadium.
"We're going to a Mets game?" Finn asked.
"Yup!" Blaine said. "Then after the game we booked a hotel room so we can play xbox and watch movies and have snacks and stuff like that."
Finn had to smile. "This is awesome!"
"The other guys are waiting in the stadium for us," Sam said.
"Let's go see them then," Finn said. He, Blaine and Sam showed their tickets to the stadium employee before Blaine and Sam led him to the row of the stadium where Puck, Mike and Artie were waiting. "There he is!" Artie declared.
"Hey guys," Finn said. He noticed that it wasn't just his groomsmen here - the boys who were in New Directions during and after the period he led it were there as well, and so was Elliott and some of his friends from Columbia.
"Did you know that your party would start here?" Ryder asked Finn.
"No, I didn't," Finn said. "But this is a pretty cool way to start it off. Who are they playing?"
"Red Sox," Blaine said.
"Ugh," Finn said.
"Guess you're a true New Yorker, Finn," Elliott said. "Saying ugh about the Red Sox."
"Yeah, I guess I am," Finn said.
As Finn sat down, Puck leaned over and whispered to him. "You know, I can still see if we can have strippers brought to the hotel later..."
"No," Finn, Blaine and Sam all said at the same time.
x
After dinner, Rachel, Kurt and the girls walked back to the hotel. "So, Rachel, this hotel has a pool, what do you say we go swimming?" Kylie asked.
"That sounds like fun," Rachel said.
"Yeah, I stole your swimsuit, just in case," Santana said.
"You would!" Rachel giggled. The girls changed into their swimsuits and went to the pool, only to see some people they recognized there.
"What are you guys doing here?" Rory asked.
"We're going swimming," Rachel said. "What about you guys?"
Finn came over and gave Rachel a kiss. "Looks like the same hotel got booked for our parties."
Rachel giggled. "I guess so. So, what did you do earlier?"
"We went to a Mets game," Finn said. "What about you guys?"
"Well, we went out to dinner," Rachel said. "After we're done swimming, we'll go back to the hotel room for a girls night with movies and snacks and stuff like that."
"I'm glad we get to spend part of our bachelor and bachelorette parties together," Finn said.
"Yeah, me too," Rachel agreed.
x
After swimming in the hotel pool, the girls and Kurt went to one suite, while the boys went to another. After a movie and some ice cream sundaes, the other girls went home, leaving just Rachel, Kurt and the bridesmaids in the suite.
"Two more days until your wedding," Kurt said to Rachel.
"I know," Rachel said. "It's crazy."
"You'll officially be my sister," Kurt said.
"You already are my brother in every other way," Rachel told Kurt.
"So, are you nervous, Rachel?" Kylie asked.
"A little," Rachel admitted.
"There's no need to be," Quinn said. "I know how much Finn loves you. Even when he and I were together, he was always talking about you."
"Sorry that didn't work out," Rachel said.
"If it had worked out, I wouldn't be where I need to be now, with Puck," Quinn said.
"So, Brittany, Kylie, anyone you girls have your eyes on?" Tina asked.
Brittany eyed Santana. "Well... not really."
"I do like Jack a lot," Kylie said. "We aren't together, but we are good friends, and we're singing a duet at the wedding reception."
"Well, take it from someone who did that a lot: singing a duet with the person you like in glee is always a good thing," Rachel said.
"Yes," Kurt agreed. "A very good thing."
"Thanks for letting me stay overnight with you guys," Kylie said. "I know you all have a special bond, as the originals."
"Of course you're staying overnight with us," Mercedes said. "You're Rachel's sister and maid of honor, and you're a glee girl, too."
"I am glad everything worked out for all of us to be together, after what happened with Sam..." Rachel began.
"Rachel, don't worry," Tina said. "It's for the best. I really missed being with Mike and even distance won't keep us apart this time."
"So, you're staying in New York for sure?" Mercedes asked.
"Yeah, I am," Tina said. "Since the three bedroom apartment is a bit crowded, maybe Sam and Artie can share a room, and you and I can share the other."
"I'd like that," Mercedes said.
x
Tomorrow was the big day.
Tomorrow, Finn and Rachel, Finchel, would officially be married.
Finn honestly just wanted to skip ahead to tomorrow and have Rachel for his wife. He knew that they still had to get through the rehearsal though, and throughout the rehearsal, Finn just was getting more and more excited. He couldn't wait to do this for real.
Since Rachel had been raised Jewish (though she did celebrate Christmas as well) and Finn had not been raised in a certain denomination, Finn and Rachel had decided to have a non denominational wedding. They'd asked Mr. Schue to be the officiant, and he'd said yes.
After the rehearsal, it was time for the rehearsal dinner. As they began to leave for the dinner, Rachel went up to Finn. "Don't you wish that was the real thing?"
Finn thought for a moment. "No, because I didn't get to see you in your dress."
Rachel giggled. "I love you so much, did you know that?"
"I never get tired of hearing it," Finn said as he kissed Rachel.
Mr. Schue came over to the couple. "So, how do you guys think I'll do with officiating the ceremony?"
"I think you're going to be good," Finn said. "Thanks for agreeing to do this."
"Hey, anything for you two," Mr. Schue said. "The glee club's really excited about the numbers they put together for the wedding and the reception."
"Well, so are we," Rachel said.
Mrs. Schuester came over with Daniel. "It's our ring bearer!" Finn said.
"And his helper," Mrs. Schuester said.
"Yep," Finn said. "So, do you guys think this next one will be a boy or a girl?"
"It's too early to tell, but I have a feeling it's another boy," Mrs. Schuester said.
"Really?" Finn asked.
"Yeah, it's just a feeling I have," Mrs. Schuester said.
Shelby came over to Finn, Rachel and the Schuesters. "Hi Will!"
"Hi Shelby," Mr. Schue said. "How are you doing? The girls told me..."
"I'm doing as well as I can," Shelby said. "We think this drug might be the one."
"Well, I hope so," Mr. Schue said.
"Beth's so excited for you two to get married," Shelby told Finn and Rachel.
"Well, we're very excited, too," Rachel said.
"She keeps wanting to put on her flower girl dress," Shelby added.
"Awww," Rachel said.
Watching Rachel with Shelby, Finn felt so happy that Rachel's mom had come back into her life. She had been a great mother to Rachel this past year, and Finn knew that he'd be glad to have her as a mother-in-law.
Finn and Rachel walked over a little to where Rachel's dads were. "The food's really good," LeRoy commented.
"Wait until you taste the food at the reception tomorrow," Rachel said. "Finn and I tested it all. It's amazing."
"We're really glad that you two are getting married," Hiram said.
"Well, so am I," Finn said. "I love your daughter so much."
"We're so glad she found you," Hiram said. "This past year - both of you went through so much, but we're so glad you had each other."
Finn knew that Rachel's dad was right. "That's how it's always going to be."
x
Rachel had to admit, she was nervous when she woke up the next morning. Her wedding day was finally here, and her stomach was in knots. She'd dreamed about this day for years and for the first time, she was unsure if she really wanted it to be here. What if she fell down? What if Finn had second thoughts? What if...
Kurt came into the bedroom. "Hey, look who's finally up!"
"Shouldn't you be with Finn and the guys?" Rachel asked. "Finn needs his best man."
"I wanted to wait until you were up," Kurt said. "Blaine and Sam can cover for me until I get back."
"Kurt, you should go be with Finn," Rachel said. "He's your brother. He needs you. I have my bridesmaids."
"All right," Kurt said. "If you need me though, text me."
"I will," Rachel promised. She followed Kurt into the living area part of the suite, where she saw Santana, Mercedes, Tina, Quinn, Brittany and Kylie, all already in their blue bridesmaid dresses. "It's the bride!" Tina declared.
"Hey guys," Rachel said.
"Are you ready to be a married lady?" Brittany asked Rachel.
Rachel smiled. "Yes."
"That's what I thought," Mercedes said.
"Well, ladies, I'm leaving her in your care," Kurt said before leaving.
"Let's get you into your dress," Tina said. "Although maybe we should have done this before Kurt left."
"Hey, he should fufill at least some of his best man duties," Rachel admitted. "He did plan my bachelorette party." She walked over to the closet, where her dress was hanging. She'd gone to Shelby's so many times in the past few months to catch a glimpse of it and now she was really going to get to wear it.
Rachel turned back to her bridesmaids. "Let's get this dress on!"
The girls cheered as Rachel pulled on the dress. As Kylie zipped the dress up, the girls heard a knock on their suite door.
"I hope that's not Finn," Santana said. "It's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding and we all know what happened last time."
"I'll go see who it is," Quinn said. After Quinn went to the door, Rachel heard a familiar voice. "Quinn!"
"Hi Beth!" Quinn said as she came into the suite with Beth and Shelby.
"Wow," Shelby said, looking at Rachel.
"Do I look pretty?" Rachel asked her mother.
"You look beautiful, honey," Shelby said. "I'm so glad that I can be here today."
"Me too," Rachel said.
"When you walk down that aisle, Finn's going to be staring at you," Tina said.
"Five years ago, did you girls ever think that this was how it was going to be?" Santana asked.
"No," Rachel admitted. "Five years ago I thought I was never going to get married."
"Well, this is going to be the best wedding ever," Santana declared.
x
Finn stood in his suite with the groomsmen, looking at himself in the mirror. This was a different tux from the one he got for the almost wedding his senior year, but he had a tie to match the girls' dresses. The groomsmen had vests and bowties the color of the girls' dresses.
"Are you okay, Finn?" Kurt asked.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Finn said. "I just can't believe I'm finally getting married."
"Finally is right," Puck said.
"What do you mean?" Finn asked.
"You've been making googly eyes at Rachel ever since we first started glee," Puck said. "Heck, even before. I remember freshman year when the guys would slushie her, you'd always look over your shoulder to see if she was okay."
"You noticed that?" Finn asked.
"Of course I did," Puck said.
The boys heard a knock on the door and Kurt went to answer it. Burt and Carole came in. "It's our little boy's wedding day," Carole said, tearing up.
Finn gave his mom a hug. "Mom, don't cry."
"I can't believe you're really getting married," Carole said.
"Well, you guys are going to have two married men before long," Finn told his parents.
"Yeah," Burt said. "In a few weeks, we'll be doing this all again."
"How are the girls?" Finn asked Kurt.
"From what I've heard, Rachel looks beautiful," Kurt said.
"I want to see her," Finn said.
"Finn, remember what happened last time when you saw her before the wedding?" Artie reminded Finn.
"Well, yeah," Finn admitted.
"Yeah is right," Mike said. "You're staying right here."
"Your dad would have been so happy," Carole told Finn. "He'd be so proud of you. So happy that you found Rachel."
"You think so?" Finn asked his mom.
"I know so," Carole said.
x
Rachel looked in the mirror as she adjusted her veil. The pre wedding photos had been taken of her and the girls, and soon it would be time to head to the bridge. She'd selected a part up, part down hairstyle for her wedding, and the bridesmaids had a similar one. She'd given each girl a pair of purple earrings to wear to match the flowers, as well as a diamond bracelet. She had the same jewelry the girls had as well.
The girls heard a knock on the door, and Rachel's dads came in. "Wow," Hiram said, looking at Rachel.
Rachel smiled at her dads. "You're about to have a son-in-law."
"Yes we are," LeRoy said. "Are you ladies all ready to go to the park?"
"Are you, Rachel?" Santana asked.
"I want to get married," Rachel said.
"Then I guess we are ready," Santana said.
x
Finn stood with his groomsmen, waiting his turn to go to the bridge. Right now, he still had time before he'd go to the edge of the bridge to wait for Rachel, but he wished the groom could process in, too. Being with the guys made him less nervous.
"No, Finn, I didn't see Rachel in her dress," Kurt said, clearly trying to lighten the mood.
"You did at the bridal shop," Finn said.
"Yes, and you will soon," Kurt said.
Finn felt his heart beating fast and put his hand on his chest. "You okay?" Puck asked.
"Yeah, just nervous," Finn admitted.
"No need to be nervous," Sam said. "This is going to be the best day of your life."
"I guess this is a preview, huh?" Blaine asked.
"Yeah, this'll be you in a few weeks," Finn said.
Mrs. Schuester came over with Daniel. "Boys, you all need to go to the back to meet up with the bridesmaids. The glee club's about to sing the opening song."
Finn gulped. "Can you each give me a hug?"
"Awww, Finn's being a sissy!" Puck teased as the guys formed a group hug.
Finn watched as his groomsmen left before he listened to the New Directions sing their song for the prelude. He had to admit, they'd picked a good one.
Ryder: What would I do without your smart mouth?
Drawing me in, and you kicking me out
You've got my head spinning, no kidding, I can't pin you down
What's going on in that beautiful mind
Marley: I'm on your magical mystery ride
And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright
Ryder and Marley: My head's under water
But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind
New Directions: 'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all of you, ohoh
Rory: How many times do I have to tell you
Even when you're crying you're beautiful too
The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood
You're my downfall, you're my muse
Harmony: My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues
I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you
Kitty: My head's under water
But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind
New Directions: 'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all of you, ohoh
Jack: Give me all of you
Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts
Risking it all, though it's hard
New Directions: 'Cause all of me
Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges
All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me
I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning
Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me
And you give me all of you
Jake: I give you all of me
Unique: And you give me all of you, ohoh
At the end of the song, Finn went to stand next to Mr. Schue at the end of the bridge. He looked around the seating area and saw his mom and Burt in the front row with big smiles on their faces. In the front row on the other side of the aisle was Shelby, with two seats for Rachel's dads next to her. The current members of New Directions had just finished the prelude song and returned to their seats.
The band began to play Pachelbel's Canon as Beth began walking down the aisle, tossing flower petals. Mrs. Schuester followed close behind, carrying Daniel and the rings. Then Brittany and Artie came down the aisle, followed by Quinn and Puck, then Tina and Mike, then Mercedes and Sam, then Santana and Blaine. When Finn saw Kylie and Kurt walk down the aisle, he knew that Rachel would be next.
Mr. Schue asked for the wedding guests to stand and they all stood as Wagner's Bridal Chorus began to play and Hiram and LeRoy walked Rachel down the aisle. Finn swore he had never seen Rachel looking more beautiful. Her dress was gorgeous and she looked beautiful in it.
Rachel and her dads reached the front of the church and Finn watched as Rachel hugged her dads. Hiram and LeRoy both shook hands with Finn before she joined Finn.
Finn smiled and took Rachel's hand. "You look beautiful."
"You look so handsome," Rachel whispered back.
"Welcome," Mr. Schue began, "to the wedding of Finnegan Christopher Hudson and Rachel Barbra Berry."
Soon it wouldn't be Berry at the end of Rachel's name. Soon it would be Hudson. Finn could barely stay focused on the opening remarks or the readings. He really just wanted to get to the vows so Rachel would be his wife.
Finally, it was time for the vows. Rachel handed her bouquet to Kylie so she could hold both Finn's hands. They'd decided to do on the spot vows so they would be as meaningful as possible. "Oh, Rachel," Finn began. "I don't even know where to start when it comes to you. There's so many things to say and it's always hard to find the right thing to say. I love you so much. During the first fifteen years of my life, I would look around at other couples and wonder where the girl for me was. Little did I know I already knew the girl for me. I remember at our first glee rehearsal, you freaked me out, but I had a feeling there was something there. And then a few days later we sang Don't Stop Believing together and our voices sounded perfect. Then we had that picnic in the auditorium and we kissed for the first time. I don't know - everything came together so much and I just knew that I had feelings for you. Feelings like I'd never had for anyone before. The more time I spent with you, the more duets we sung together, it just confirmed what my heart already knew and my head wasn't sure about: that you were the one. In every scenario about my future, I picture you and me together. I don't care what we're doing or how much money we're making or where we're living as long as I have you with me. I want to spend the rest of my life loving you and being loved by you. I want to wake up next to you every morning and protect you and kiss you and support you and get through all of life's challenges together and have children together. I love you more than I could ever know how to say and I could never find the right thing to say, but I just want you to know how happy I am that today you're going to be my wife."
Rachel had tears in her eyes. She gave Finn a beautiful smile. "Wow, I don't think I can top that but I'll try. Where do I begin? Finn, I don't even know what I'd be if it wasn't for you. Before I met you, I was just a crazy girl who thought she was better than everyone else just because she was a good singer. I wasn't happy at all, deep down, and I knew that there had to be something out there for me. That something was you. Without you in my life, I'd probably just be the girl who posted myspace videos of myself singing showtunes every day. You've made me into a better person, you've helped me grow beyond my weaknesses, you've brought out the best in me, you've supported and encouraged me like no one else does, and you make me feel happy and loved and special. You are my world and I will love you forever. I've always imagined this day, imagined us having a life together, and now it's finally here. Whatever our future holds, I know it'll be great because I have you with me."
Finn wanted to kiss Rachel, but he knew that he couldn't kiss her until after they were pronounced husband and wife. She'd been wrong though - she had topped what he said.
Mrs. Schuester and Daniel came over with the rings at Mr. Schue's command. Finn took the wedding band off the pillow and slipped it on to Rachel's finger. "With this ring I thee wed."
Rachel took the ring off the pillow and slipped it on to Finn's finger. "With this ring I thee wed."
Finn and Rachel went to light the unity candles before they stood on the edge of the bridge again. "By the power vested in me by the state of New York, I now pronounce you husband and wife," Mr. Schue said. "You may kiss the bride."
Finn was so glad he didn't have to wait anymore. He leaned in and kissed Rachel. "I love you so much."
"I love you too," Rachel said.
"We're finally married," Finn declared.
"Yes we are," Rachel said.
x
After some photos were taken of Finn and Rachel with their wedding party around the park, it was time to take the limo back to the hotel for the reception. Finn had to admit, he was impatient to go on the honeymoon, but he knew that the reception was going to be fun.
"How does it feel to be married?" Kurt asked Finn and Rachel.
Finn smiled. "It feels amazing."
"I don't think I've ever seen either of you looking so happy," Tina said.
"Well, I've never been so happy in my life," Rachel said.
"Me either," Finn said as he kissed Rachel.
"Hey!" Santana said. "You guys will have a week to do that. But at your reception, focus on your guests."
"We will," Finn pouted.
"Good," Brittany said.
"We have received word that the bride and groom have arrived with the wedding party," the group heard Mr. Schue say as they waited outside the reception hall. "First, welcome the bridesmaids, Miss Santana Lopez, Miss Mercedes Jones, Miss Tina Cohen-Chang, Miss Quinn Fabray and Miss Brittany Pierce!"
Finn and Rachel clapped as the bridesmaids went in.
"Now the groomsmen," Mr. Schue announced. "Mr. Blaine Anderson, Mr. Sam Evans, Mr. Artie Abrams, Mr. Mike Chang and Mr. Noah Puckerman!"
The boys went in, leaving just Finn and Rachel with their best man and maid of honor. "So, are you two almost ready for your speeches?" Rachel asked.
"We actually have been going over them," Kurt said. "I think you'll like them."
"Please welcome the best man and the maid of honor," Mr. Schue announced. "The groom's brother, Mr. Kurt Hummel, and the bride's sister, Miss Kylie Nichols!"
"We're going to be announced as husband and wife," Rachel said.
"I know," Finn said. "I love hearing that."
"Yeah, me too," Rachel said.
"Finally, the guests of honor: Finn and Rachel Hudson," Mr. Schue announced. As Finn and Rachel went into the hall and saw people from all parts of their lives standing and applauding.
"Now the bride and groom will share their first dance," Mr. Schue said as Kurt and Blaine took their spots at the podium.
Finn and Rachel went into the center of the reception hall to dance together. The last time they'd danced together at a wedding, it had been
Blaine: There's a calm surrender to the rush of day
When the heat of a rolling wind can be turned away
Kurt: An enchanted moment, and it sees me through
It's enough for this restless warrior just to be with you
Blaine: And can you feel the love tonight?
It is where we are
It's enough for this wide-eyed wanderer
That we got this far
Kurt: And can you feel the love tonight?
How it's laid to rest
It's enough to make kings and vagabonds
Believe the very best
Blaine: There's a time for everyone if they only learn
That the twisting kaleidoscope moves us all in turn
Kurt: There's a rhyme and reason to the wild outdoors
When the heart of this star-crossed voyager beats in time with yours
Blaine and Kurt: And can you feel the love tonight?
It is where we are
It's enough for this wide-eyed wanderer
That we got this far
And can you feel the love tonight?
How it's laid to rest
It's enough to make kings and vagabonds
Believe the very best
It's enough to make kings and vagabonds
Believe the very best
"Our first dance as husband and wife," Finn whispered to Rachel.
"I'm so happy right now," Rachel whispered back as they kissed at the end of the dance.
"And now, the bride and groom would like to perform their first duet as husband and wife," Blaine said as he and Kurt left the stage and handed the microphones to Finn and Rachel.
"Hi," Finn said as he and Rachel stepped on the stage. "First, thank you all for being here today. This is such a special day for Rachel and me, it's been a long time coming, and we're so glad to have you all here." Finn looked around the room, feeling a bit overcome by just how many people were here. Their parents sat at a table close to the table where they'd be sitting. Ryder, Marley, Jake, Kitty, Unique, Rory, Harmony, Sugar and Joe sat at one table, while the underclass members of New Directions sat at another with Lauren Zizes and Matt Rutherford, who had been in glee club for brief periods. Mr. and Mrs. Schuester sat at a nearby table with Coach Beiste, Coach Sylvester, Principal Figgins, April Rhodes, Holly Holliday and David Martinez. At another table were Elliott, Dani, Taylor, Marissa and some of Finn's friends from NYU, including the former Warblers, Nick and Jeff. People from all stages of their lives had come today. "Since Rachel and I met in glee club, we wanted to have a first duet as well. This song that we're going to sing is a very special song to us. We sang it at Regionals our sophomore year right after I told her I loved her for the first time... so here it is again."
The music began to play as Finn and Rachel sang their song. The words had meant a lot when they sang it for the first time five years ago, and they meant even more now.
Finn: Highway run
Into the midnight sun
Wheels go round and round
You're on my mind
Rachel: Restless hearts
Sleep alone tonight
Sending all my love
Along the wire
Finn and Rachel: And they say that the road
Ain't no place to start a family
But, right down the line it's been you and me
And loving a music man
Ain't always what it's supposed to be
Rachel: Oh boy, you stand by me
Finn and Rachel: I'm forever yours
Faithfully
Rachel: Circus life
Under the big top world
Finn and Rachel: We all need the clowns
To make us smile
Rachel: Oh!
Through space and time (Finn: Through space and time)
Finn and Rachel: Always another show
Wondering where I am
Lost without you
And being a part ain't easy on this love affair
Two strangers learn to fall in love again
I get the joy of rediscovering you
Finn: Oh girl, you stand by me
Finn and Rachel: I'm forever yours
Faithfully
Finn and Rachel: Oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh oh...! (Finn: Faithfully...)
Oh oh oh oh (Rachel: Faithfully)
Oh oh oh oh oh (Rachel: I'm still yours)
oh oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
Rachel: I'm still yours!
Finn and Rachel: Oh oh oh oh,
Oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh oh!
Oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
I'm still yours!
Faithfully...
"I'm forever yours, faithfully," Finn whispered to Rachel as they finished.
"And I'm forever yours," Rachel said as they went to take their seats at the table for the bride and groom with the wedding party. The bride and groom sat in the elevated middle of that table with the best man and maid of honor, while the groomsmen sat on one side and the bridesmaids sat on the other.
When Finn and Rachel sat down, Kurt stood up for his best man speech. "Hello everyone," Kurt said. "I'm Kurt Hummel, the best man and Finn's brother. Rachel is also my best friend. I'd like to start off by congratulating Finn and Rachel. They've been in love for so long and they really deserve this. I'd also like to congratulate Finn's and my parents, Burt Hummel and Carole Hudson-Hummel, and Rachel's parents, Hiram and LeRoy Berry and Shelby Corcoran.
"I've known Finn and Rachel since grade school, but I didn't really start to know them until our sophomore year of high school, when they were in the glee club with me. To be honest, I had a crush on Finn that year. I would flirt with him and go out of my way to spend time with him, and I went on to set up our parents in hopes of getting closer to Finn. Turns out we did get closer - in a much better way than what I'd hoped. Finn is the best brother anyone could ever ask for. It's amazing to have someone who has your back no matter what, who understands you, who will always support you. Finn does all that, and more. After my mom died I thought my hopes for a sibling were gone. I'm so glad that I ended up with Finn as my sibling. I would only want the best for my brother, and I know he has it. The way Finn and Rachel support each other and understand each other and love each other - everyone should have that.
"Rachel has been my best friend since my junior year of high school. Well, she wasn't my best friend at first. We were always competing for solos and for Finn. But then I asked her for help with an assignment, and I realized what I was missing out on. The last four years of my life would not be the same without her, and I'm so lucky that I can call her my sister now.
"Everyone, please raise your glasses and join me in a toast to Finn and Rachel."
The guests raised their glasses as Kurt came over to hug both Finn and Rachel. Then he handed the microphone to Kylie.
"Hi everyone," Kylie said as she took the microphone. "I'm Kylie Nichols, the maid of honor and Rachel's younger sister. We didn't know that we were sisters until last summer, since our birth mother gave both of us up for adoption to different families. I actually met Rachel for the first time last spring, and she talked me into joining the glee club at my high school, of which she was also a member in high school. I joined it, and it was there that I met so many of my close friends.
"During my first semester in glee club, Finn was the glee club's assistant director. I knew that Finn was a great guy. He was so nice to everyone, made sure everyone's ideas were heard, and was always encouraging and supportive. I see the way he and Rachel are together, and like Kurt said, everyone should have that. They love each other so much, and they're meant to be.
"Rachel and I met for the first time when she visited her former high school last spring, and she mentored me when she visited for Nationals that year, but it was last summer when I found out she was my sister. At first I was afraid to tell her that I'd discovered that, but I know now that I had nothing to be afraid of. We were close already, and when we found out that we were sisters, it was as if we knew all along. I can talk to her about anything at any time, and we have the best time together when we see each other. I couldn't ask for a better big sister, and like Kurt said, I only want the best for my sister, and I know she has it. So everyone, please raise your glasses to Finn and Rachel!"
As the audience raised their glasses, Kylie hugged Finn and Rachel. "Guess I'm your brother now!" Finn whispered to Kylie.
"Yeah," Kylie said. "You are."
"The New Directions and alumni also have a surprise planned for Finn and Rachel," Kurt said, taking the microphone.
"A surprise?" Finn asked.
"Yeah," Puck said, giving Finn a look as he went to the dance floor with the other past and present members of New Directions. Some music began, and Finn and Rachel realized that the past and present New Directions members were singing a song for them.
Kurt: The whispers in the morning
Of lovers sleeping tight
Are rolling like thunder now
As I look in your eyes
Blaine: I hold on to your body
And feel each move you make
Your voice is warm and tender
A love that I could not forsake
Mercedes: 'Cause I am your lady
And you are my man
Sam: Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
Santana: Lost is how I'm feeling lying in your arms
When the world outside's too
Much to take
Brittany: That all ends when I'm with you
Artie: Even though there may be times
It seems I'm far away
Kitty: Never wonder where I am
'Cause I am always by your side
Tina: 'Cause I am your lady
And you are my man
Mike: Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
Marley: We're heading for something
Somewhere I've never been
Ryder: Sometimes I am frightened
But I'm ready to learn
Of the power of love
Jake: The sound of your heart beating
Made it clear
Unique: Suddenly the feeling that I can't go on
Is light years away
Kylie: 'Cause I am your lady
And you are my man
Jack: Whenever you reach for me
I'll do all that I can
New Directions: We're heading for something
Somewhere I've never been
Sometimes I am frightened
But I'm ready to learn
Of the power of love
Finn gave Rachel a kiss on the cheek at the end of the song. When the New Directions arrived back at their seats, dinner was served, and Finn realized that the food tasted even better now than it had when he'd tasted it at the tasting parties.
After dinner was served, Finn and Rachel made their way around the reception hall to greet their guests, starting at the table where their families were seated. "Are you two happy?" Hiram asked as Finn and Rachel arrived at their table.
"Never been happier," Rachel said.
"You take care of our little girl," LeRoy told Finn.
"I will, I promise," Finn said. "I won't let anyone or anything hurt her."
"And you take care of our little boy," Carole said to Rachel.
"Oh, don't worry about him," Rachel said. "No matter what, I'll be there."
"So we have a daughter now, too, Carole," Burt said.
"Well, the Hudson-Hummels always were my second family," Rachel said.
"You're officially part of the family now," Carole said.
"And you're my brother now?" Beth asked Finn.
"I am," Finn said.
"Yay!" Beth exclaimed as Finn and Rachel moved on to the next table, made up of some of the adult figures from their high school life.
"Thanks for officiating, Mr. Schue," Rachel said as they greeted their former glee director.
"I'm so honored you guys asked me," Mr. Schue said.
"Well, you did catch the bouquet when I tossed it at the Schuesters' wedding attempt," Coach Sylvester said. "I hope you don't mind that I wore a white tracksuit, Rachel."
"Well, it's a white tracksuit, not a white dress," Rachel giggled.
"We're really glad you could all be here," Finn added.
"I thought you'd never ask," Ms. Holliday said.
"Besides, we might as well see Will Schuester before he goes out west," April added. "Holly and I tried to convince him to stay."
"But at least I'm here for this," Mr. Schue said.
"Again, thank you all so much for coming," Rachel said before she and Finn moved on to the table where the current New Directions were standing around talking. "It's the married couple!" Marley exclaimed.
"Thanks for your performances," Finn said.
"Oh, of course!" Ryder said. "One of our leaders getting married."
"Yeah, we appreciate it," Rachel said. "New York isn't an easy trip."
"You guys are worth it," Kitty said. "And so is Artie, of course. Besides, I'll be here in a year, anyway."
"Well, again, thanks for your performances," Rachel said.
"Oh, some even better ones are coming," Harmony said.
Finn and Rachel then walked over to where their wedding party was. "Guys, thanks for being the best wedding party ever," Finn said.
"Well, we're honored you asked us all," Mike said.
"Of course we did, you're our closest friends," Rachel said. "Seriously, this weekend would not have been possible without all of you."
"Well, we are pretty awesome," Santana said.
"You are," Finn said. "And Rachel and I will make your weddings awesome when it comes time for them."
"Oh, we look forward to that," Blaine said.
"We're working on our duet for your first dance," Rachel said.
"Speaking of songs, I'm up for my solo," Mercedes said.
"I bet it'll be the best song so far!" Sam said.
"You two should go dance," Kylie said. "After all, it is your wedding."
Finn held out his hand for Rachel. "May I have this dance, Mrs. Hudson?"
Rachel smiled. "You may, Mr. Hudson." They began to dance on the floor as Mercedes started singing.
Mercedes: At last
My love has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like a song
Oh yeah yeah
At last
The skies above are blue
My heart was wrapped up in clover
The night I looked at you
I found a dream, that I could speak to
A dream that I can call my own
I found a thrill to press my cheek to
A thrill that I have never known
Oh yeah yeah
You smiled, you smiled
Oh and then the spell was cast
And here we are in heaven
for you are mine...
At Last
"I'm so happy right now," Finn told Rachel. "This has been the best day of my life."
"Yeah," Rachel agreed. "Mine, too."
SONGS: All of Me by John Legend (performed by New Directions), Can You Feel The Love Tonight by Elton John (performed by Blaine Anderson and Kurt Hummel), Faithfully by Journey (performed by Finn and Rachel Hudson), The Power of Love by Celine Dion (performed by New Directions and alumni) and At Last by Etta James (performed by Mercedes Jones)
Chapter 58 preview: Finchel's honeymoon and the beginning of their lives as a married couple!
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