CH 26

The Las Vegas chapel was bathed in soft, golden light as Bella and Mark prepared to take a step they had both been dreaming about for quite awhile. Their families were taken by absolute surprise when they broke the news they were engaged and getting married Saturday night. Hunter, Samantha, Kane and Jessica met them Friday in Las Vegas and helped get everything together for the wedding. Bella had asked numerous times where Chyna was but Hunter kept changing the subject. Bella stopped asking not wanting to stress about anything. She did end up stressing about all the details for the wedding from her dress, the girls' dresses and the flowers. She looked around the chapel taking it all in. The room's elegance made Bella happily smile, with white roses and ivy adorning the pews, and candles casting a soft glow over their gathered family. Standing by the altar, Mark wore a black suit that made his piercing green eyes more intense than ever. A rare, gentle smile softened his usually stern face, and only Bella, looking radiant in her white lace gown, could bring out this side of him. Jessica sat nearby, her green eyes glistening with happy tears. Her auburn hair cascading over her shoulders in curls. Her deep purple dress brought out her eyes even more. Beside her sat Kane, not hiding his happiness that his brother was finally marrying Bella. In the opposite pew, Hunter sat with Samantha, who wore a dress matching the color of Jessica's. Samantha was beaming with happiness. Hunter's face was a mix of emotion. He was happy for Bella but also felt a sadness realizing his baby sister was about to be married and start her own life. Bella's eyes met his for a moment and he winked at her making her smile. As the soft notes of a piano began to play, Bella took a deep breath, her gaze shifting meeting Mark's. Her heart raced with love and anticipation as she stepped forward taking his hand. He squeezed her hand gently, grounding her in the moment, his eyes never leaving hers.

The officiant welcomed everyone with a few words about the beauty of love and commitment. Bella and Mark exchanged a smile as they listened, savoring the moment. The officiant continued, "If anyone has any objections to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace."

Kane chuckled softly. "Not a chance after all this time waiting for these two to get together," he said, breaking the silence and causing everyone to laugh. The lighthearted moment eased any tension, adding warmth to the ceremony.

"You may now exchange your vows. Mark, you may go first," the officiant said.

Mark turned to face Bella, his eyes full of love. "Bella," he began, his gravelly voice softened with emotion. "From the first moment we crossed paths, I felt a connection I couldn't ignore. Over the years, you've become more than just a friend—you've become my best friend, my partner in life. I promise to stand beside you, to protect you, and to love you with everything I am."

Bella's eyes glistened as she held back tears. Her voice was soft yet steady as she replied, "Mark, you've shown me a love that I never believed was possible. Through every up and down, you've been there. You have made my life complete and I never want to be without you. Today, I promise to love you forever, to stand beside you, and to cherish every moment we share."

"Your ring exchange will visibly seal the vows you just expressed to each other. Notice that your wedding rings are a circle, the ancient symbol of wholeness. Wear these precious rings as a reminder that your souls are united in your hearts. You may now exchange rings," the officiant said as Jessica came to her Dad's side and Samantha moved next to her Aunt. Jessica handed her Dad the wedding ring.
"Bella, I give you this ring as a symbol to the world that you are my lover and you are my best friend - in all times and in all ways," Mark softly said, sliding the ring onto Bella's finger. Samantha handed her Aunt the ring.

"Mark, I give you this ring as a symbol to the world that you are my lover and you are my best friend - in all times and in all ways," Bella said, sliding the ring onto his finger.

The officiant smiled, turning to Mark and Bella. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride."

With a tender look, Mark lifted Bella's face, his hands warm and gentle on her cheeks. He leaned down, and as their lips met, the room seemed to hold its breath, the love between them almost tangible. He kissed her deeply feeling her melt into him.

"I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Calaway," the officiant announced as applause erupted as their family stepped up to congratulate them.

Jessica wrapped her arms around her father, whispering, "Congratulations, Dad. She's perfect for you. I wish you two all the best."

"Bella, welcome to our family," Jessica hugged her.

Hunter approached Bella, his expression a mix of pride and protectiveness. He pulled her into a tight hug. "Congratulations, little sister. I wish you nothing but happiness" he whispered. "He'd better take care of you."

Mark nodded respectfully at Hunter, meeting his gaze with an understanding look. "I will," he promised quietly.

"Welcome to the family Uncle Mark," Samantha hugged him then embraced her Aunt tightly. "I'm so happy you two finally are married."

"I second that," Kane said reaching out pulling Bella into a tight hug. "Thank you for marrying my brother. I've been telling him for years I needed a sister in law. Now you two can work on giving me a few more nieces and nephews," he laughed making Bella blush.

"Feel free to hit him," Mark smirked pulling Bella into his arms.

"Hmmm maybe another day but not today. Let's go celebrate," Bella smiled resting her head against his chest for a moment.

"You heard my wife, let's head out," Mark said kissing her softly.

As they stepped outside into the warm Las Vegas night, hand in hand, Bella looked up at her new husband, her heart full. "We really did it. We are married," she whispered, her voice filled with joy and disbelief.

Mark smiled down at her, his fingers laced with hers. "Yes, we are. And it's only the beginning. We have many years of good memories in front of us. I can't wait till we are done with Raw and we can go away for our own private celebration," he leaned down whispering in her ear giving her instant goosebumps.

"We are going to start our private celebration tonight as soon as we get back to the room," she turned whispering against his lips before kissing him deeply.

"Come on, let's go celebrate with family before we end up ditching them for our own celebration," he broke the kiss gently pulling her to follow their family.

As they walked away from the chapel, they knew they had both found their forever and could handle anything that came their way.