Epilogue
Chase
T he sun bathes the garden in a warm, golden light as I stand at the altar, my heart racing with anticipation. I watch as she walks down the aisle, her beauty taking my breath away. Every step she takes brings her closer to me, and I can hardly believe that soon she'll be my wife.
As she reaches me, her hand in her father's, I’m overwhelmed with love for this woman. This is it. This is the moment we've been waiting for.
The minister begins the ceremony. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Nora Evans and Chase Steele.”
I look at Nora, and I feel like my heart is about to burst.
“Today, Nora and Chase, you stand before us to declare your love for each other, to walk together and support one another in everything that you do. Marriage is based on trust, mutual respect and commitment. It is a great thing that you have decided to come together today to become one. Marriage is a sacred bond; it's a lifelong journey, it's a partnership, for life. I ask, do you love each other?”
“Yes, we do.” Nora says, her voice strong.
“Are you ready to commit to each other?”
“Yes, we are.” I answer.
“Nora and Chase, remember that love is not just a feeling, but it's an everyday thing. You must forgive, embrace, and lift each other up. You must abide by each other. When you do this, you'll rise above all obstacles and difficulties. May your marriage be blessed. May you continue to inspire each other and all those around you.” Everyone choruses an amen before he continues.
“Now, it is time for you to exchange your vows, to share your love and commitment to each other. Chase, please take Nora’s hands and share your vows.”
I squeeze her hands gently, feeling the warmth of her touch as we say our vows and she looks up into my eyes, seeing the love and determination I have for her there. The minister nods at me to go on.
I take a deep breath, my eyes never leaving hers. My voice is steady but filled with emotion.
“Nora, in front of our loved ones, I promise to cherish and support you through every moment of our journey together. I vow to be your unwavering companion, to laugh with you in times of joy, and to hold you close in times of sorrow. I promise to love you fiercely and faithfully, for all the days of my life. I vow to be your husband, partner, your protector, and your best friend for the rest of my days. I love you, Nora Evans.”
Tears fill her eyes as I finish, and I feel a deep sense of joy and love. The minister turns to her, his smile encouraging.
“Nora, please share your vows with Chase.”
She takes a steadying breath, and my heart overflows with emotion as I look at the woman I love.
“Chase, ever since I met you, my world has been filled with light and excitement. You've been my rock, my confidant, and my friend—especially when I had no one to turn to. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in all your dreams, and to stand by you through every challenge life throws our way. I promise to be your wife, partner, encourager, and your biggest support for life. I love you, Chase Steele.”
Then he asks the question I’ve been waiting for.
“Do you, Chase Steele, take Nora Evans as your lawfully wedded wife until death do you part?”
“Yes, I definitely do.” I answer in a second, grinning from ear to ear.
“Do you, Nora Evans, take Chase Steele as your lawfully wedded husband until death do you part?”
“Yes, I do.” She replies softly, blinking away tears. Finally, the moment arrives for us to exchange rings.
“Now, Nora and Chase, it is time to exchange the rings, the symbols of your love and commitment.” The minister lifts a small pillow from the pulpit, with our rings resting in the center. He comes further and stands in front of us.
“Nora,” the minister continues. “Please take Chase's ring and place it on his finger.”
Nora's hands tremble slightly as she picks up the gleaming band, but her smile is steady and full of love. She gently takes my left hand in hers, and I can feel the warmth of her touch. As she slips the ring onto my finger, it's like a perfect fit, a seamless joining of our lives.
“Chase,” the minister's voice gently breaks the moment, “please take Nora's ring and place it on her finger.”
I pick up Nora's ring, a delicate band that seems to glow with an inner light. I take her left hand, and as I slide the band onto her finger, I feel a sense of completeness wash over me.
The minister’s eyes shine with approval. “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Chase, you may kiss your bride.” With a tender kiss, we seal our vows to each other, surrounded by the love and support of our friends and family.
“Please face the congregation as the latest couple in town.” We turn to face our loved ones and the garden erupts into cheers. It's official, and this is just the beginning of our journey together. I couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds.