Title:Soul Harvest: Chapter 66 Author: fareast [ Send a Private Message ]
Copyright: mine Content Rating: PG-13 Disclaimer: not mine Author's Note: Thank you for all the wonderful comments! By the way, Rani- birkenstocks are a type of shoe. I love the sandals!
Bette and Tina stood behind some trees in back of all the guests. They looked at each other and smiled, hands clasped and they nodded at the minister who gave the cue to the guitarist to start playing their song. Waiting another minute before stepping towards the isle, they both gathered their breaths. Tina took the first step, guiding Bette to the first flower petals in the grass. The guests all turned to catch a glimpse of the beautiful couple. Bette started to take a step but Tina held her back, waiting for the right notes in the music to start their stroll down the isle. At that moment, Bette was amazed at Tinas calm demeanor, how she stayed so focused and level headed. Bette wouldve marched down the isle, focused only on what was directly in front of her and how quickly she could reach that goal. But Tina... she forced Bette to take time to look around and see how many loved ones surrounded them. Their support filled the forest and shared in their joy. Tina wanted to take this slow and savor each moment, and she wanted Bette there right beside her, not ten feel ahead.
After another minute, Tina looked at Bette and gently smiled, squeezing her hand. They took a step together and slowly sauntered through the petals as the sun was almost finished falling into the horizon. Silence filled the chairs but later after the ceremony, their guests would comment amongst themselves at how absolutely gorgeous the women had been. Once they reached the minister, she motioned for them to stand face to face, slightly facing the audience. Several flashes went off as the photographer made her way around the couple.
Peace be with all of you. The minister began. It is evident these two women have faithful supporters surrounding them. And that is a beautiful thing for two people taking the steps to come together and join together as one. Bette Porter and Tina Kennard stand before you as two individual women who are in love. So much so they are publicly expressing their love with all of you. It is a privilege to be here sharing in this commitment before all of us.
The minister continued to speak while Bette and Tina remained focused on each other, never losing eye contact. It was time for them to step aside and allow two people say a few words. While planning the wedding, Bette and Tina had decided to pick two people who could say something about them at the wedding... someone who had seen their relationship from the beginning and watched it grow. They chose Alice and Mandy, two women who would speak the truth, say kind words, and also challenge them in the future.
Mandy spoke first. Taking a deep breath, she first looked at Bette and Tina and smiled, taking in the love between them.
Ive known Tina since junior high, so its safe to say I know her pretty well. Mandy began, facing the guests. Ive known her inside and out, nothing was ever secret between us. She has always been the kindest and most sincere friend I have ever had. When she met Bette, I saw a side of Tina I had never experienced before. A freedom emerged in her, and she was truly happy, actually giddy. I was shocked... and excited. I knew Tina had fallen in love. I have had the great fortune of watching this relationship unfold and develop into true love. Bette is the perfect match for Tina and I couldnt have picked a better person for her. I know the road ahead will be blessed with love and happiness. Tough times will fall on them as well, but I know they can make it through anything, as long as they put their minds to it. And now, as I look at them, Im at a loss for words. Mandy hesitated a moment, catching her breath as a lump gathered in her throat. She didnt want to cry, so she took a deep breath before finishing. No more words need to be said because their love speaks for itself.
Mandy looked over at Bette and Tina while stepping down and mouthed, I love you. Tinas eyes filled with tears and despite her joy, she felt a wave of sadness fill her as she watched her best friend step away. Bette sensed Tinas sorrow and squeezed her hand. Alice then stood up to face the rows of people.
I never knew anyone more honest or stronger than Bette... until I met Tina. I was amazed at how quickly Bette fell in love with her. It was a beautiful thing to witness. For a while I was afraid I would be losing my best friend, but now I realize Im not losing my best friend but gaining a new best friend. Tina complements Bette in ways nobody else ever could and vice versa with Bette. As much as they are alike, they have differences that hold them together and allow them to keep their individuality, which is very important in a relationship. I love them both so very much. I dont need to say any more. You all are here for the same reason I am... we all know how great Bette and Tina are. Youve experienced it in some way and Im sure you all could echo my words. All of us have something in common tonight - we all admire and love Bette and Tina.
Alice walked back to her seat with tears falling down her face and Bette quickly and discreetly caught a tear falling down her own cheek. The guitarist played and sang a song, allowing Bette and Tina to regain their composures. Afterwards, the minister motioned for the couple to step back up in front of everyone. Bettes heart began hammering inside of her again at the thought of saying her vows to Tina. They faced each other and held hands. At the ministers guiding, Tina began with her vows first.
She took a deep breath and began, voice shaky. Bette... you are my partner for life and I promise to remain faithful to that. You deserve honesty, respect and kindness and I will do everything in my power to be those things to you. I love you.
Short and sweet, her words floated around in Bettes head, but she didnt even have time to process them. It was time for her to speak to Tina publicly.
Tina... I consider you my family and I will live each day as its the last with you. I will be honest, faithful, considerate and loving towards you for all days. I love you more than I love myself and I am happy to call you my partner.... my family.
Bettes voice quivered throughout all of her words as the tears welled up in her eyes, although she didnt cry. Tinas mind was in overload. Her nerves were raw, but it was impossible to take a moment and sit down to process everything so far. One thing after another took place and she now understood how stressful weddings really could be. The minister gave them the rings and nodded towards Tina who put Bettes ring on her finger up to the second knuckle while repeating after the minister.
I, Tina Kennard promise to be your partner for life through tough times, happy times, and even in the mundane. I promise to show strength, weakness, joy, sadness, peace, challenge and love. With this ring I express my commitment to you.
Tina gently pushed the ring completely onto Bettes finger and Bette repeated the same words, placing the ring on Tinas finger.
