Chapter 62
1006words
Zuria, Christina, and Emily were all waving at me. My mom and Hannah were taking pictures.
I looked ahead, and I saw him, Uvaldo Dakoda, my future husband, my rescuer, my hero and the love of my life. His enchanting blue eyes never left mine, and he had a big smile on his face. Suddenly everything seems a little better, and my anxiety was slowing disappearing. All the guest suddenly became a blur to me. The only thing I could see was Valdo smiling at me.
I smiled back.
This is Valdo.
The same Valdo who brought a pregnant homeless girl into his home without even knowing her real name or age. The same Valdo's heart was made of gold. He would never hurt me, and he'll always protect me.
At the end of the aisle Kevin hugged me, said "After this, you'll officially be my daughter. Welcome to the family."
I smiled and placed my finger at the corner of my eyes to prevent a tear from falling. Because of Valdo, I discovered the true meaning of family, and for that, I'll be forever grateful.
Kevin placed my hand in Valdo's and smiled, "Take good care of her. " he said before walking to take a stand beside his wife.
Valdo and I looked at each other with smiles on our faces, neither of us saying anything.
We turned towards the priest.
He looked ahead at our guest, "You can now be seated" They followed his request without hesitation. He looked down at us and smile. "Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of Uvaldo Dakoda and Jakobia Taylor in marriage. This couple is not like your average couple. They haven't known each other for years. It hasn't even been a year in fact, but love has no time span. Today, as we create this marriage, we also create a new bond and a new sense of family - one that will undoubtedly include all who are present here today."
The priest took about fifteen minutes to complete the readings; then he started to tell us about of responsibility to each other as a couple. I listen to his words. I felt a little overwhelmed and Valdo would sense it because he squeezed my hands to calm me down. It worked.
When it was time to exchange vows, we turned towards each other. Since we didn't have much time on our hands, we decided to go with the traditional vows.
"Do you Uvaldo Dakoda, take Jakobia Taylor to be your lawfully wedded wife, promising to love and cherish, through joy and sorrow, sickness and health, and whatever challenges you may face, for as long as you both shall live?"
Without hesitation, Valdo answered, "I do."
The priest turned to me, "Do you Jakobia Taylor, take Uvaldo Dakoda to be your lawfully wedded husband, promising to love and cherish, through joy and sorrow, sickness and health, and whatever challenges you may face, for as long as you both shall live?"
I smiled, "I do."
"Let's have the exchange of the rings."
I turn slightly to look at Eric, who moved closer to us. He handed Valdo the ring then winked at me.
I held my hand out to Valdo.
He chuckled and held my hands, "I Uvaldo Dakoda give you Jakobia Taylor this ring as an eternal symbol of my love and commitment to you."
A shiver went through my body as he pushed the ring on my tiny finger. When it was completely on, he looked up me and smile.
Zuria came closer to me and handed me the ring. Valdo stretched out his hands as I had done and I couldn't help but chuckle. I took his hands in mine and placed the finger on the tip of his finger. "I Jakobia Taylor give you Uvaldo Dakoda this ring as an eternal symbol of my love and commitment to you."
The priest offered us a smile then looked at our guest, "If anyone objects to the marriage speak now or forever hold your peace."
It was then my heart really started beating fast. In movies, this was the time when things went downhill.
I looked down at our guest, and no one said a word.
Phew!
"By the power invested in me by the State of New York, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."
Valdo leaned in and bent his head. His lips touched mine, and he kissed me softly. In the background, everyone cheered. However, I barely noticed; my full attention rested on my husband and his soft kiss.
After a while, we broke apart.
I looked in Valdo's eyes, not knowing exactly what to say. Sensing my shyness, he spoke first, "Are you ready to start your life with me?"
I smile, "Without a doubt."
He chuckled then turned towards our guest who was watching us keenly. I couldn't help but smile, seeing all our friends with big smiles on their faces. Especially knowing they were happy for us.
We enlaced our hands and walked down the aisle. Ready to start our new life together.
..
I jumped as I heard screeching screams behind me. I looked around to see Christina jumping in joy. "Congrats, Congrats, Congrats." she wrapped her arms around me, "I'm so happy you. You get a Prince Charming."
I smiled at her, "You'll get yours too."
She shrugged, "I doubt it. Men like Valdo are like diamonds."
"Diamonds are actually not as rare as people make them seem," Zuria inserted. "With that said, I think one day you will find someone who loves you unconditionally."
"What about you? I don't see you looking for anyone." Christina knew Zuria lost her husband so I know she wasn't trying to be mean.
"I've already met my forever love. He's just not with me anymore."
Christina looked at Zuria, confused, "So you'll never date another man?"
