It was a crisp and wintry day, the sun casting sparse yet radiant rays that pierced through the season’s chill.
Today marked exactly one year since Chloe’s arrival in the capital. A momentous occasion, to be sure, but the day was even more momentous for quite another reason.
“Ready?” Lloyd’s voice reached a stiff, nervous Chloe as they stood before an imposing set of double doors. He was the picture of formality in his full dress uniform, reserved for only the most grandiose events.
“I...think so,” Chloe replied, trying her best to sound even the tiniest bit confident. She was adorned in a delicate, lacy silk gown—pure white, of course.
“Watch your feet,” Lloyd said gently.
“I-I’ll try my best,” Chloe stammered back.
Chloe Ardennes, true to her nature, was still a bit of a handful. This was the first time she had ever worn a dress so opulent and heavy, and all her focus was dedicated to not tripping over its folds.
“If you fall, I’ll catch you,” Lloyd assured her, his tone full of support and affection.
Chloe let out a light giggle, her nerves easing slightly as she looked up at him. “Then I’m counting on you, my knight.”
The usher stationed at the doors hesitated momentarily, seemingly reluctant to break up the happy scene, but duty called. “It’s time,” he announced. At his cue, the grand doors began to creak open. Arm in arm, Chloe and Lloyd stepped forward together.
Chloe’s breath left her in a wispy “Wow...” The church they had chosen as their wedding venue boasted majestic, vaulted ceilings and exquisite stained glass windows. The sunlight streaming through the colorful panes bathed the interior in a kaleidoscope of light, creating an almost divine atmosphere, as though God Himself had descended upon the earth to give them His blessing.
But it wasn’t just the visual splendor that captivated Chloe; the church was alive with the sounds of joyous celebration. The applause of friends and loved ones filled the air, a resounding symphony of happiness and well-wishes for Chloe and Lloyd’s union. As they made their way down the aisle, the lengthy train of Chloe’s dress gracefully trailed behind her. The path was adorned with a beautiful arrangement of red and white flowers, leading them towards the altar where they would soon exchange their sacred vows.
Don’t trip... Don’t trip... The mantra echoed in Chloe’s mind with each step. But as she progressed, arm in arm with Lloyd, her fears began to fade. Passing by the rows of benches, they were enveloped in a chorus of celebratory cries.
“Congratulations, Chloe!”
Miss Ciel...
“Congratulations, Lloyd, Chloe!”
“Master Lloyd, congratulations! I’m over here, Master Lloyd, over here!”
“Congratulate Chloe too, ya punk!”
“Ouch, my head!”
Freddy, Luke...
“Chloe, Lloyd, congratulations!”
“Congratulations, Miss Monkey Lady!”
Miss Sara, Millia...
“Congratulations, Lloyd, Chloe!”
Ian...
“Congratulations, Lady Chloe!”
“Congratulations, my friend!”
Shirley, Kevin...
Chloe’s heart swelled with gratitude and joy at the abundance of heartfelt wishes. They reached the altar, where the officiant stood ready, greeting them with a warm, welcoming smile. He opened his codex, and his voice, rich and resonant, filled the nave of the church. “We are gathered here today to witness the sacred vow between two souls,” he began. “Chloe Ardennes, do you take Lloyd to be your wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?”
“I do.” Her voice was a soft yet firm affirmation.
“Lloyd Stewart, do you take Chloe to be your wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, so long as you both shall live?”
“I do.” Lloyd’s response was immediate and unwavering.
Acknowledging his reply, the officiant said, “And now the rings.” Lloyd produced a small box, revealing within it a beautifully crafted gold ring, intricately carved—a tangible symbol of their shared future.
Chloe watched, her heart fluttering with anticipation, as Lloyd carefully took the ring and tenderly slid it onto her finger. The moment the ring made contact, a surge of emotion coursed through her. The cool metal settled into its place, wrapping her in warmth and belonging. Such a simple object, yet it embodied an immeasurable depth of love and promise.
Next was Chloe’s turn. She carefully retrieved her ring and reached for Lloyd’s outstretched hand. Lloyd, ever composed, showed only the faintest hint of nervousness. With a delicate touch, Chloe slid the ring into its rightful place on his finger.
“By the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride,” the officiant declared.
Chloe and Lloyd shared a glance, filled with love and understanding, before their heads naturally came together in a tender, heartfelt kiss.
CLANG, CLANG, CLANG—the church bells rang out, accompanied by the thunderous applause of their friends, a resonant celebration of the couple’s union. The joyous peals had the weight of a divine acknowledgment of their unbreakable bond.