Mariely walked slowly toward the altar, still unable to believe that she was finally about to marry the man she loved most. She held back her tears, not wanting anyone to think she was being forced into this moment.
God, why are You so good to me? she thought. Do I really deserve all these blessings? First, I passed my board exam on my very first try. Second, the love of my life came back to me and rescued me from five miserable years in a toxic relationship. And lastly, you gave me another chance to be happy—with him and with our child. Do I really deserve this? Gosh, I'm so blessed.
Her tears flowed as she walked down the aisle. Even though her vision blurred, she kept her eyes fixed only on Frank.
"Mariely," her mother called softly.
"No, Mom. I'm just… really emotional today," Mariely answered, smiling through her tears.
Her mother nodded and embraced her tightly before letting her go to hold the hand of her groom. Together, she and Frank walked forward.
"Wipe your tears," Frank teased. "I can't do it for you yet—it's not time to kiss you."
"You're so silly," she chuckled under her breath.
After she had recovered from childbirth, they immediately began planning their wedding. Their baby was five months old now, peacefully cradled in her brother's arms as the ceremony continued.
Frank held her hand firmly.
He had once asked her what kind of wedding she wanted. If it were up to him, he would have chosen a grand and extravagant celebration—something he could easily give her. But she had chosen instead a wedding that was simple yet elegant, a ceremony that felt solemn and holy. She didn't need grandeur; the most important thing was standing before God and vowing their love.
Looking around, she saw her family, her friends, and all the people most dear to her—now witnesses to this sacred union.
She looked Frank in the eyes, determined to take their vows seriously, knowing this was the man she would grow old with.
"You may kiss the bride."
Frank lifted her veil, smiling at her. Even now, she still felt butterflies in her stomach. He brushed her cheek gently and tucked her hair back.
"Hon, I will always cherish you forever," Frank whispered.
They sealed their vows with a passionate kiss, and tears streamed down her cheeks again.
"You crybaby," he teased as he wiped her tears.
She laughed softly, while the crowd cheered and applauded for their love.
Her makeup had been done by Veron, and after the ceremony they proceeded to the reception to celebrate with everyone.
Suddenly, Liam started crying—hungry and ready to be fed. Her brother carried the baby to her.
"Hon, I need to breastfeed first," she told Frank.
"No problem. Do you want me to get you a cover so you'll be more comfortable?" he asked.
She smiled and nodded. "Thank you, hon."
"You're always welcome," he said, kissing her forehead.
As the program continued, she nursed Liam quietly. She couldn't help but laugh and enjoy herself even while breastfeeding. When Liam finally fell asleep, she fixed her dress with the help of Veron and her sister-in-law Nadia.
"Thank you," she said.
"You're always welcome. Just tell me anytime if you need help with Liam," Nadia replied warmly.
Mariely's heart swelled with gratitude, surrounded by family who supported her every step of the way.
*****
That night, Frank smiled as he watched his wife sleeping soundly after the long day. She had already changed into her nightclothes, dozing off while watching over their baby, who was also fast asleep.
They had planned to open their wedding gifts together that evening, but exhaustion had claimed her first. He chuckled softly.
I guess I need to sleep too. She's my wife now… carrying my name.
For now, they were staying in his condo, though soon they would move into a new place—a true home for their family. He adjusted the blanket over her, making sure she was comfortable, then quietly checked on their baby.
He caressed Liam's tiny face. So this is what it feels like to be a father. I just want to protect them both and keep them safe always.
After checking the crib, he kissed his wife gently on the forehead and drifted to sleep beside her.
But he awoke later, sensing a gaze on him. He opened his eyes to find Faith watching him intently.
"Do you need something?" he asked softly.
She smiled and shook her head. "Did I disturb my husband?"
"You need to sleep. Did baby Liam wake you?"
"No. He's still sleeping soundly. I just wanted to check if he's okay," she whispered.
"Then go back to sleep," he urged.
"Later. I just want to look at your face a little longer," she admitted with a shy smile.
He pulled her close. "Go to sleep. I know I'm handsome, but you'll have plenty of time to stare at me." He teased her again, making her laugh.
Their eyes met, and he felt the strong urge to kiss her.
"Should we try for another baby already?" Frank teased.
Mariely laughed as she swatted at him playfully. "Not yet! I'm still in pain from giving birth," she said, half-joking, half-serious.
Frank laughter softened into concern. He had been so worried when she gave birth—worried about her pain, her safety, and the baby's. That was why they had stayed in the hospital for a full week, ensuring both mother and child were healthy before going home.
"Yeah, let's wait," he said seriously.
She smiled. "But Liam can't be an only child forever, you know."
He fell silent, sighing softly. The memory of her struggle during childbirth still weighed heavily on him.
"Hon," he asked gently, brushing her hair from her face, "have you lost your fear? Do you still feel the trauma sometimes?"
She hugged him tightly. "I'm okay now… But sometimes, I still dream about it. That's why I'm afraid to have another baby yet. What if… I lose the child?"
He kissed her forehead tenderly. "It's alright. I won't force you if you're not ready. I'll always respect you—and love you."
Her eyes softened. "You're different from him. I know you can be aggressive, but you're also gentle. I love you. But for now… I'm not ready to make love yet. Just cuddle me instead."
He smiled warmly. He was glad she could be honest and open about their marriage and intimacy. He could never hurt her, not like that bastard Edward had.
"Alright. We'll just cuddle. But we really need to sleep," he said.
She nodded, wrapping her arms around him tightly. They kissed once more, deep and lingering, before he kissed her cheek and forehead.
"So warm," she murmured, burying herself in his embrace.
He didn't care about Edward anymore. His only duty now was to protect this little family—a family he knew would one day grow even bigger.
Soon, she drifted off to sleep in his arms. He chuckled softly.
"What a sleepyhead," he whispered fondly.
And with his beloved wife resting peacefully against him, Frank finally allowed himself to fall into a deep, contented sleep.