Don't take it Personal

The Wedding

Then came the pivotal question, "Who gives this woman away?" Her dad stood with a resounding "Yes."

"Now, for the vows, the couple has decided to say their own," the pastor announced.

He gestured to Stephanie, and she began, her voice filled with emotion, "Where to begin? I've always considered us as friends and nothing more. You allowed me to be myself, even when I was at my lowest, even when I pushed you away. The day I realized I loved you-it was shocking. Figuring out how to navigate that after being friends for so long... But being the person you are, you told me that you were in it for the long haul, and that shouldn't have surprised me. Because when we were just five years old, you told me we were getting married right over that swing." She pointed to the swing, and I couldn't contain my excitement, shouting, "You remembered!" The guests chuckled, and she continued, tears running down our cheeks. "Well, I didn't remember until I was about to walk down the aisle. I assure you, I'll be there for you as you've been for me-loving and supporting you through all our dreams."

"Stephanie, you are an amazing woman, and yes, at the age of five, I realized you were the one for me when I fell, and you hurriedly ran over to my aid, helping me. You stayed by my side that day, despite it being a simple cut, you took care of me. Your love for others and what you've overcome is a testament to the incredible woman you are.
Even after confessing my love to you and receiving your cryptic response, "Don't take it personally," I'm glad I never took it to heart. And here we stand today," I said, causing Stephanie to chuckle.I promise to love you in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, till death do us part," I declared, our hands firmly held together.

The pastor concluded the ceremony with the words, "I now present to you Mr. & Mrs. Williams. You may kiss the bride." And kiss her I did, with a passion that echoed the depth of our love.

The Reception

Trey POV

The magical evening unfolded seamlessly. With our wedding pictures captured, our dedicated team swiftly transformed the venue for the reception. The same chairs and tables, elegantly arranged, welcomed our guests, who were enticed by the delightful fruit bar and refreshing coconut water station.

Stephanie, my stunning bride, disappeared briefly and reemerged in a dress that accentuated her curves, featuring an enchanting frill at the waist. She radiated beauty and elegance, as she always does.

The evening's festivities commenced with the playful shoe game, skillfully hosted by our Master of Ceremonies, Blacks. Following this light-hearted start, we indulged in a delectable dinner, setting the stage for the heartwarming daddy-daughter dance between Stephanie and her father.

Then, it was our turn. Stephanie and I took to the dance floor for our first dance as a married couple, a moment that felt nothing short of enchanting. Holding my queen in my arms, the world melted away as we swayed to the music. Soon, our guests joined in, filling the dance floor with joy.

As the night progressed, the atmosphere was further elevated by the soft glow of pepper lights, twinkle lights, and lanterns, which illuminated each step of our dance and made the evening truly magical.

Stephanie POV

Amidst the whirlwind of festivities, I took a moment to rest my tired feet, sinking into the chair. All around me, everyone was caught up in the euphoria of the celebration. It was a surreal feeling, embracing my new identity as Mrs. Williams, Trey's wife.

Watching Trey gracefully dance with his mother was a heartwarming sight. It reminded me of the deep bonds we were forging with our families.

Then, my father, perceptive as ever, sat beside me and gently broke the silence. "Penny for your thoughts," he said, pulling me out of my reverie.

"Hey, Dad," I replied, holding his hand affectionately. "I'm just overwhelmed with happiness, not just from experiencing love but truly feeling it."

With a smile, he squeezed my hand and offered his words of love and encouragement. "You deserve all the happiness, baby girl."

His words touched my heart, and we clasped our hands tighter together. He continued, "Stephanie, I recently expressed how proud I am of you, but I also want you to be proud of yourself. You've overcome challenges that many are still trying to figure out. Remember, I'll always be here when you need me." With a tender kiss on my temple, he walked over to Uncle Devon Black's dad.

As I reflected on my father's words, they resonated deeply within me. I was proud of myself, having defied the odds. And thanks to my husband's support, I had sought therapy and continued to do so, arming myself to navigate whatever challenges lay ahead with resilience and strength.