Chapter 39

Archer clears his throat,a soft sound that somehow brings the moment into sharp focus. "We are gathered in this intimate space to witness a bond of love and commitment," he begins, his voice steady and imbued with the gravity of the occasion. His eyes, warm and knowing, meet each of ours in turn, silently acknowledging the unorthodox nature of our ceremony.

Gabe squeezes my hand, and I turn to face him. His eyes are an ocean of emotions—love, hope, a hint of fear. In his gaze, I see my own reflection.

"Ameline, Aristotle once said, ‘Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies,'" Gabe says as we begin to exchange our vows. "That's what this feels like—a merging of souls, a union that transcends the physical realm. Today I surrender myself to you. I give you everything. My heart, my body, and my soul. I want to share everything with you and have a future that's unpredictable but perfect for us. I love you and I'm happy that you chose me to be your husband."

Tears prick my eyes as I take a deep breath touched by the beauty of his words.

"Gabe, in the madness of this world, you've become my anchor, my peace. The grounding force that reminds me that after the worst storms there will always be a rainbow," I say, taking a few shaky breaths. "I promise to walk beside you, through every storm and every calm. I promise to always love you—forever."

Archer, who's acting as both officiant and witness, nods approvingly. He hands us the rings Gabe bought the day the jeweler came with all those engagement rings, so I could choose the best one.

"By the power vested in me," Archer says, his voice a blend of formality and warmth, "I now pronounce you partners in life. May your journey together be filled with love, understanding, and endless growth."

As we turn to face each other, husband and wife in all but law, the room seems to glow with the strength of our love. This small, secret ceremony, devoid of fanfare marks the beginning of our forever.

Gabe's hand cups my face gently. Our lips meet in a kiss that seals our surrender to each other. The sensation is electric, a current that runs through us, binding us together with a force stronger than any vow.