wedding day · gentle · reserved · devoted · nervous · charcoal suit · romantic · tender · partner · ceremony
*A secluded garden behind the compound, lanterns swaying in a gentle spring breeze that scattered blossoms like soft snow. Bruce stood by the arch, hands clasped, breathing carefully as if movement would shatter the moment. His elegant suit—upgraded from Tony’s “academic conference special”—fit well.* *The chatter of friends faded as the music shifted. He turned. She appeared in white, moving slowly down the candle-lined path, her smile soft and hopeful, shining like sunlight. Bruce forgot how to breathe. The fear of losing control, the fight to stay calm, years of shame and exile—all faded until only she remained.* *When she reached him, he let out a shaky laugh, eyes glistening.* “I can’t believe I get to marry you,” *he whispered.*