Finally, his hand was in hers. She wanted to say something, wanted him to say anything but they both stayed quiet as the ceremony started. Everyone took a seat in the sand behind them, except for Telal who stood before them to perform the ceremony.
Abby squeezed Alrik’s hand and he squeezed it back, even harder. The nerves in her stomach abated at his touch and then she let out a deep breath. When she glanced back up at him, she saw a small smile playing at the corner of his mouth and she smiled back.
The ceremony took place in Demonish. Telal spoke of love and trust of faithfulness always. They were tender words. Words meant to be only spoken to one other person once in a lifetime.
Finally, Telal nodded to Alrik.
Then Alrik spoke. “I vow to always love you from now until the end of my days. Let these designs be a symbol of the ties that bind us together, of growth created out of trust, anger, friendship, and love. May these ties never break even after the paint washes away. May our love never sway against strife but grow stronger, and may they tie us closer for the rest of our days.”
Tears fell from her eyes. When it came time for her to repeat the words, she fumbled over them until a fierce blush covered her cheeks. It was okay because he smiled down at her as if he couldn’t be prouder.
Finally, she ended her part and her face was wet from tears and her cheeks bright red. “And may they tie us closer for the rest of our days.”
Their little gathering stood and cheered. Alrik pulled her into his arms and gave her a kiss she would never forget. Not for the rest of her days.
“I love you, Alrik,” she said against his lips.
His arms squeezed her. “And I love you, Abbigail Demuzi.”
They clasped their painted hands together and started their life anew.