Chapter 4: The Wedding Vows
The sun shone through the stained-glass windows of St. James' Chapel, casting colorful reflections on the polished wooden pews. The air smelled of fresh roses, and the quiet murmurs of guests faded as the ceremony began.
Alexander stood at the altar, his hands clasped together, heart pounding as Eleanor walked toward him.
He had seen this moment before.
The first time, he had barely paid attention. He had been preoccupied with his career, already thinking about the business meetings scheduled for the following week. He had exchanged vows, kissed the bride, and moved on with his life.
This time was different.
As Eleanor reached his side, she gave him a soft, expectant smile.
The priest began the ceremony, speaking of love, partnership, and commitment. Alexander listened intently, absorbing each word. When it was time to exchange vows, he took a deep breath.
"I, Alexander Whitmore, take you, Eleanor Davenport, to be my wife," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I vow to cherish you, to stand by you in every season of life. I vow to listen, to love, and to never let ambition cloud what truly matters. You are my heart, my home, and I will spend the rest of my life proving that to you."
A flicker of surprise crossed Eleanor's face. In their past life, his vows had been cold, rehearsed, impersonal. Now, she blinked away tears, her grip tightening around his hands.
"I, Eleanor Davenport, take you, Alexander Whitmore, to be my husband," she said softly, her voice trembling slightly. "I vow to walk beside you, to support you, and to remind you, when you forget, that life is meant to be shared. I vow to love you, even when times are difficult, and to trust in the man I know you are."
Alexander swallowed the lump in his throat. He had lost this woman once. He wouldn't lose her again.
"You may now kiss the bride," the priest announced.
Alexander cupped Eleanor's face gently, pressing a tender, lingering kiss to her lips. As the guests erupted into applause, he made a silent promise.
This time, I will be a better husband. A better father. A better man.
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