To have and to hold (6/8/2016)

We clasp our trembling hands together under the clear, blue sky, nervous for what today brings but knowing that nothing will stop us now. The whole world stretches before us on top of that mountain. The moment we had never dared to dream of before is suddenly right there, tangible and sweet as honey.

The birds themselves seem to cease their singing. The squirrels are watching quietly, holding their breaths. Time slows as our officiant says, "Repeat after me."

"I will trust you and honor you.

I will laugh with you and cry with you.

Through the best and the worst,

Through the difficult and the easy.

Whatever may come, I will always be there.

As I have given you my hand to hold,

so I give you my life to keep."

His eyes on mine shut the whole world away while we vow to never be apart again. Nothing matters except for our permanent reunion. This mountain is ours, and our lives are one.

We kiss to the sweet chorus of the birds, now singing louder than ever, accompanied by the cheers of my best friends. One is snapping picture after picture. (Looking back, they're so sickeningly sweet that it's no wonder everyone felt uncomfortable around us before.)

Later, I will have to face my family, the people who doubted me, doubted us. I'm apprehensive of their responses, but he dulls the bitter fear with every touch. For now, I will keep kissing him under the hot Alabama sun in the view of God and everybody, not giving a damn who notices.