30. Janta

CHAPTER 30

Janta

O ur wedding day is one of the best days of my life. Rayna and I bask in the joy of the day savoring every moment. Before the ceremony is set to start, I go looking for her, wanting to see her one last time before we stand before our family and friends.

I walk into the bridal area and see her as she stands in front of the mirror, fixing her hair. It hangs in a dark contrast to the lace white of her dress. For all the swatches that littered the living room floor, she ended up going with a traditional white. It's strapless, and slings to her curves while still having a classy look about it.

"You're so beautiful," I say, unable to stand here silently a second longer. Her eyes widen as she jumps, startled at the sound of my voice.

"You're not supposed to see me before the wedding!" Rayna shrieks as I step into her dressing area. I scoff lightheartedly, chuckling as I see her slip behind a door.

"That's just a human superstition," I say with a laugh as she slowly comes out from behind the door.

She has her hands on her hips in disapproval, but I grin as a slow smile slowly softens her features.

"Am I allowed to do this?" I ask playfully, a mischievous smile slips across my usual put together demeanor. I pull Rayna flush against me and proceed to kiss her gently.

I let out a throaty rumble as our lips part, leaving her flushed and flustered.

"Are you ready for today?" I ask before I turn away to leave her alone in her dressing area.

"I'm more than ready," she replies swiftly.

The day unfolds as a beautiful canvas of smiles, laughter, and heartfelt congratulations. Everyone weaves in and out, creating a mosaic of shared joy and communal celebration. As Rayna and I step up to the heart of the ceremony, under an archway adorned with vibrant flowers, the surrounding chatter and music gently simmer down into a hushed reverence.

The officiant invites us to declare our love and commitment in front of everyone gathered. I take Rayna's hands in mine, feeling their delicate strength and firm resolve.

"Rayna," I begin, my voice steady though emotions swell inside me, "from the moment our paths crossed, you have been my strength and my solace. Today, I promise not only to love you but to cherish the life we have made and the challenges we have overcome. I vow to support you, to inspire you, and to believe in us, no matter what lies ahead."

As I speak, each word resonates deep within me, echoing through my very soul. Rayna's eyes, glistening with unshed tears, lock onto mine with an intensity that deepens the moment.

She takes a deep breath, her gaze fixed deeply into mine, and responds. "Janta," she says, her words imbued with deep affection and commitment, "you are my heart's echo. You have taught me more about love, patience, and kindness than I ever thought possible. I vow to stand by you, to share in your joys and your sorrows, and to build a future that honors both our dreams. You are my partner in life, now and always."

Our vows fill the space, binding us with their sincerity and depth. Applause and cheers break out as we seal our commitments with a kiss, symbolizing our unity and the beginning of our new life together. As the officiant joyfully pronounces us married, and we turn to face our family and friends, their faces alight with happiness, the moment feels utterly surreal.

The reception is a joyful blur of music, dancing, and laughter. Toasts are made, each touching on the strength of our bond and the journey that brought us together. Our first dance as a married couple is to a song that holds special meaning for us, its lyrics a reminder of the journey we've embarked on together.

As the celebrations continue around us, the music and laughter gradually fade into a soft murmur in the background when Rayna gently places Lily in my arms. I pull her close, cradling her small form against me. The world around us seems to slow down, the distant sounds of celebration becoming a gentle hum, allowing me a moment of profound introspection.

Looking down at Lily, her innocent eyes wide with wonder, I'm struck by the purity and sincerity of her smile. She giggles, a delightful sound that seems to resonate with every beat of my heart. In this quiet moment, holding my daughter, I'm overwhelmed with a sense of peace and gratitude. It's as if all the complexities of life simplify into this single, perfect moment—just Lily and me, her laughter a sweet melody that drowns out the rest of the world.

I treasure this pause, a rare stillness amidst the joyous chaos of our wedding celebration, feeling blessed beyond measure. This little life we've created, who looks back at me with such trust and joy, reinforces the promises I've made today. It's a poignant reminder of the beautiful journey that lies ahead with Rayna and Lily by my side.

Rayna and I find ourselves under a canopy of stars, the soft glow of lights strung above us. We step into each other's arms for one final dance, swaying gently, lost in the warmth of our embrace. Rayna fits perfectly against my chest, her petite frame nestled into mine. Despite our differences in size, it feels just right, and at this moment, with all our imperfections, I wouldn't change a thing.

The music around us seems to quiet, becoming a distant echo as we move together. "I can't wait to see what our future holds," Rayna whispers, her voice soft and full of emotion, her eyes glossy with happiness.

"Me either," I reply, my voice low, filled with the same hopeful anticipation. I press my lips gently to the top of her head, feeling her sigh contentedly "Here's to the future with you, love," I murmur as I pull her even closer, our bodies moving in sync with the subtle rhythm of the music.

"To our future," she echoes, looking up at me with a smile that lights up her entire face. That smile, brimming with love and hope, is all I need as we continue swaying under the stars, surrounded by the night's magic.

This dance, this moment, signifies more than just the end of our wedding day—it's a promise, a shared vision of the life we are building together. As we continue to move in perfect harmony, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and excitement for every day that is yet to come with Rayna by my side.

Rayna's mom finds us outside, holding a babbling Lily. Her eyes light up as she sees us, and she holds her hands out to me.

"Well, look who wants to join the party," I say, as Rayna laughs and plants a gentle kiss on Lily's forehead. "You think she understands any of this?" I whisper to Rayna, nodding towards Lily who is now giggling, probably at the sight of our faces so close together.

"Maybe not," Rayna replies, her eyes twinkling with amusement, "But she can feel the love, can't she?"

"That she can," I agree, looking into Lily's eyes. "You hear that, little one? We're talking about the future. A future where you get to complain about my old-fashioned music and your mom's healthy breakfasts."

Lily babbles something incoherent in reply, and we both laugh, her joy infectious.

"Here's to our future, Lily," I say softly, my words more for me and Rayna than for her, knowing she doesn't grasp the full weight of them yet. "A future filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few more dances under the stars."

"To our future," Rayna repeats, and we all sway together, the music enveloping us in its gentle embrace.

I can't think of a better way to bring our wedding night to a close. Having both Rayna and Lily here with me is what we've fought so hard to achieve all these months. Through the uncertainties and insecurities, everything has led us to this point, and I wouldn't change a thing.

As the song ends and the night whispers its last, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and love for my family, excited for all the days to come. I would have never thought that this is the turn my life would take. Before Rayna came to Curiosity, bringing Lily into my life, I was content to work myself to death, having nothing to live for but my livelihood and even then, there was no one to share it with.

These last couple months have been filled with heartache and growth, and most importantly filled with lessons that have shaped me into the man and father I've become. And now with my wife and my daughter in my arms, I feel like I'm ready to tackle whatever else may come our way.

The End