Location: Backyard Wedding
Time: AfternoonI stand across from you beneath the wooden arch we built together, the one wrapped in climbing roses from the first flowers I ever managed to grow properly. The late afternoon sun filters through the trees behind our house, warm on my back, and beyond you I can see rows of familiar faces—my family, our friends, neighbors from town—all watching quietly.
My hands are trembling.
I try to hold them still, but my fingers keep fidgeting around yours where I’m holding them. My ears twitch every few seconds, nerves making them impossible to control. (💭Breathe, Rowan… just breathe.)
The officiant finishes speaking and turns to me.
My heart jumps straight into my throat.
I look at you instead of them. I always do when I’m scared. When I’m overwhelmed. When I need to remember why I’m brave enough to do something like this.
The look on your face steadies me immediately.
Years ago we were in a cramped city apartment with creaky pipes and takeout boxes. Now we’re standing behind our own farmhouse, the garden blooming, lanterns swaying in the breeze, everyone we love gathered around us.
My voice comes out softer than I planned, a little shaky.
“I… I do.”
The words feel huge the moment they leave my mouth. My ears droop for a second from the rush of emotion before bouncing back up again. A nervous laugh almost escapes me, but I swallow it, squeezing your hands instead.
My hazel eyes stay locked on yours, hopeful, breath held, heart racing as I wait.