Page 24 of Zin and Celeste: A Fortis Family Christmas

“Celeste, your turn.”

“Zin, you are stubborn and bull-headed, but I knew if I could crack the shell of your heart, I would find the biggest heart and the mightiest love. I am honoured every day to stand beside you, and knowing you cherish me makes me the luckiest woman on the planet. I love you more than you will ever know, and I am so proud that you are mine and I am yours. I promise always to be truthful, to always tell you when I need you. With my body I will honour you, with my heart, I will love you, and with my soul, I will protect you from anything or anyone who wishes you harm.”

The tears in Zin’s eyes had spilt over and were now running silently down his face. She reached up to wipe them away, and he leaned in as she kissed his face with so much love. He pulled away and brushed the wetness away as she slipped on the hoop earring that would have to do for now.

“You have both made vows of love to each other and made everyone cry.”

Zin and Celeste laughed as they looked around the room at the evidence of the effect their words had on those they loved.

“Zin, do you take Celeste Bourdain as your wife? Do you promise to love her, cherish her and be faithful to her? Do you promise to be true in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.

“Celeste, do you take Zin Maklavoi as your husband? Do you promise to love him, cherish him and be faithful to him? Do you promise to be true in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“By the power invested in me by the government, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You can kiss your bride but keep it PG, there are kids present.”

Zin cupped her nape in his big hand as he dipped his head so she wouldn’t have to strain to reach him. His lips brushed hers, and she opened for him as he pulled her closer and surrounded her with his arms, making her feel precious and so loved. His tongue flicked inside her mouth, and she sighed against him, surrendering to his love.

He pulled away but kept his lips against hers. “I love you so much, Pixie.”

“I love you too, husband.”

His smile lit up his face as he turned and took his son from Roz and held them both while the adults took pictures on their phones to capture the happiness of the moment. It was a Christmas she would remember for the rest of her life.