As they made their final preparations, their loved ones began to arrive, each bearing a unique story and connection to the bride and groom. Jane's nephew TJ, the ring bearer, skipped through the door, his bright blue eyes shining with excitement. Her brother Frankie, who had been by her side through thick and thin, gave her a reassuring wink as he took his place as the best man. And then there was Nina, Maura's closest friend and the maid of honour, her dark curls bouncing as she hugged everyone in sight.
The cabin was soon filled with laughter and the clink of glasses as guests mingled and shared their well-wishes for the happy couple. Jane couldn't help but feel a lump forming in her throat as she looked around, taking in the love and support that surrounded them. She glanced over at Maura, who was chatting animatedly with Vince Korsak, the officiant, and realized that this was all happening because of her. Because she had finally found the courage to take a chance on love.
Just then, the doors of the cabin swung open, and in walked Maura's parents. Jane's heart swelled with gratitude as they embraced their daughter, tears streaming down their faces. They had been so supportive of their relationship from the beginning, and Jane knew that they were just as happy as she and Maura were to see this day finally arrive.
As the guests continued to pour in, Jane couldn't help but notice a familiar figure lingering at the back of the room. It was Lily, Maura's former flame from before they met. They had run into each other at a bar a few months ago, and while the encounter had been tense, they had agreed to put their differences aside for the sake of Maura's happiness. Now, standing in the same room as her, Jane felt a pang of empathy for the woman who had once been so deeply in love with Maura herself.
Vince Korsak, the officiant, cleared his throat, signaling that it was time to begin the ceremony. As Jane and Maura took their places beneath the arch of birch trees, they exchanged glances, their hands trembling slightly with nerves. But when they locked eyes, all those doubts and fears seemed to melt away, replaced by a fierce and unwavering love.
"We are gathered here today," Vince began, his deep voice resonating through the forest, "to celebrate the union of Jane and Maura. A union that was forged not just through their love, but through the countless obstacles they've faced together." He paused, glancing at each of them before continuing, "Through the ups and downs, the highs and lows, they have emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before."
The sun dipped below the treetops, casting a warm glow over the couple as they exchanged their vows. Jane's voice trembled with emotion as she spoke of her love for Maura, of the moments they shared and the future they envisioned together. Maura, on the other hand, was surprisingly steady, her words ringing clear and true as she promised to love, cherish, and protect Jane for the rest of their lives.
As they said their "I do's," a chorus of laughter and cheers erupted from the guests, who had been quietly listening to every word. Jane and Maura locked eyes, their hands still clasped tightly together, and it seemed as if the whole world faded away except for the two of them. In that moment, they were the only ones that mattered.
The officiant, Vince Korsak, smiled down at them and asked if anyone objected to their union. Of course, there was no objection. He then took out the ring box and placed it in front of Jane. Her hands trembled as she lifted the velvet box, revealing the dainty gold band engraved with a simple yet meaningful message. She slid it onto Maura's finger, her heart racing with excitement and nerves.
Maura, her eyes glistening with tears, did the same, carefully placing Jane's ring on her finger. As they gazed at their interlocked hands, a sense of calm and contentment washed over them. They were now truly and irrevocably bound together, facing the future as one.
The officiant continued with the ceremony, guiding them through the exchange of vows and the official pronouncement that they were now wife and wife. Jane felt a weight lift off her shoulders as they sealed their love and commitment, surrounded by the people they loved most.
As the newlyweds shared their first kiss as wife and wife, the guests erupted into applause and cheers. Jane could feel the warmth of Maura's lips against hers, the familiar shape of her body pressed against hers. It was a surreal moment, one that she knew would stay with her forever.
The reception was a whirlwind of laughter, dancing, and toasts. The food was exquisite, the decorations beautiful, and the love in the room palpable. Jane took a moment to step away from the dance floor and survey the scene, taking in the smiling faces of their family and friends. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the life they had built together, the obstacles they had overcome, and the love they shared.
As they cut the cake, a traditional three-tiered confection adorned with fresh flowers, Jane felt a warmth spread through her chest. It wasn't just the sweetness of the cake or the joy of the occasion; it was the knowledge that they had found something truly special in each other. They had found a partner who understood them, who accepted them for who they were, and who loved them unconditionally.
The night flew by in a blur of dancing and laughter, as their guests took turns sharing stories of their journey together. There were tales of their first meeting, their initial dates, and the countless adventures they had shared over the years. Some stories made them laugh until they cried, while others brought tears to their eyes. But through it all, they held onto each other, a testament to the strength of their bond.
The sun began to rise, casting a warm glow through the windows of the reception hall. The music slowed down, and Jane and Maura found themselves alone on the dance floor, swaying gently to the rhythm of a romantic ballad. They were lost in each other's eyes, the words of their vows still ringing true in their hearts.
"I love you, Jane," Maura whispered, her lips brushing against Jane's ear. "With every beat of my heart, every breath that I take. You are my world, and I will always be here for you, through thick and thin."
Jane smiled, her cheeks flushed with emotion. "And I you, Maura. I promise to cherish this life we've built together, to never take you for granted, and to always be your rock when you need me to be." She held Maura tighter, feeling the warmth of her body against hers. "Thank you for giving me the best gift anyone could ever ask for: your love."
As they continued to sway on the dance floor, Jane noticed the other couples starting to filter out of the hall, heading off to begin their own lives together. But for now, it was just the two of them, sharing this special moment in time. They were the center of the universe, their love the only thing that mattered.
"So, what's next for us?" Maura asked softly, breaking the silence.
A/N: Finally finished writing this .. what do you think should happen next?