Chapter Eleven
Julia
“Julia? Are you ready?”
“Almost.”
Katie appears in the doorway. “You can’t be late for your own wedding. He’ll think you ditched him.”
I laugh as I slide my feet into my shoes. “How do I look?”
“Like an angel.”
“Good.” Erika sits on the edge of the bed, looking upset. “You okay?”
She looks up and nods. “I’m so happy for you. I always cry at weddings.”
I laugh softly, giving her a big hug. “Thank you for being such a good friend.”
“Always.” She stands.
Katie pats my shoulder. “Are you nervous?”
“No. I was meant for this. Since I was fifteen, I was going to be his wife.”
“Aw, that’s so sweet.”
“It’s true.” I exhale slowly. “Let’s go.”
“Dad’s waiting.”
I shake my head as we walk to the door to meet him. “Can you believe everything that’s happened in the past six months? From thinking he might be my brother to marriage and Dad’s about face?”
“It’s kind of magical really. Especially Dad. This was long time coming I think.”
“Too bad he didn’t do it the first time he had an opportunity.”
“Yeah, but at least you know what you and Diego have can withstand literally anything.”
“Literally.”
We open the door to find Dad standing there with a flushed face. When he sees me, he smiles through glassy eyes.
“Are you crying, Dad?”
He nods. “It’s a big day. I’m so happy for you.”
“Thank you.”
He extends his arm for me and I take it as Katie and Erika walk ahead to join my mom. Since Diego left the priesthood, being married in the Catholic church wasn’t an option, which was fine with me. This beautiful garden is perfect. When we turn the corner, I pause to take it in. Diego stands under the tallest, most elegant tree I’ve ever seen. Dad walks me down the aisle and when we get to Diego, he offers him my hand.
“I already know you’ll take care of her. I already know how much you love her. I already know you’re a great man. Welcome to our family.” He offers a smile. “The right way.”
“Thank you, Sir.” Diego takes my hand and smiles at me. “You are stunning.”
“Thank you. So are you.”
We both look at the officiant who is speaking, but I can’t hear a word. All I can do is focus on the man in front of me.
“Guests, Diego has a few words he wants to say.”
Diego grips my hands. “Almost eleven years ago, I gave my heart to you. I fell in love under a tree, so it’s only fitting I also commit my life to you under one. I didn’t know it at the time, but every decision I made brought you to back to me. Our path was unconventional to say the least.” I smile. “Everything I longed for, everything I hoped for my life, I found in your eyes. Julia, my angel, thank you for the grace and healing your love has brought me. I am the man I was always meant to be because of you. I am living the life I was destined for because of you. I am whole, because of you. If there was a word stronger than love I would use it to describe my feelings for you. Until I die, I am yours.”
The officiant nods. “Julia?”
Katie hands me a tissue to wipe my eyes. “I was a girl the first time I saw you, but what an impression you made. I never forgot you. I believe that our paths were always connected, and I’m thankful we found our way back. We overcame unbelievable obstacles, but through them, you showed me the man that you are. You are brave. You are honest. You are kind, and you are amazingly loving.” I smile trying to calm my tears enough to finish. “A woman always wants to believe she is the most important person in her man’s life, and I can say without a doubt I know I am in yours.” Diego nods, smiling sweetly. “I didn’t know a love like ours was even possible, but every day you show me more. The possibilities of our future astound me. The way you share your heart brings me to tears. I was always meant to be your wife, and today it’s coming true. I love you, Diego, and I am proud to spend my life with you. I told you before and I’ll tell you now in front of all these people. I am yours. Forever.”
The officiant says some more words that I can’t hear until finally Diego’s voice cuts through.
“Julia? He said I could kiss my wife.”
“We’re married?”
“Yeah, Angel, we’re married.”
I exhale slowly. “Well then kiss your wife.”
“With pleasure.” Diego pulls me into his arms, dipping me low, and kissing me sweetly. “I’ll save the good stuff for when we’re alone.”
“I can’t wait.”