nothing held Dimitri back from getting what he deserved. Nothing held him back from the board's stupid demand. They had to give it to him now.

The ceremony progressed with the couple kneeling when directed, reciting prayers and crossing their hearts more times than Dimitri counted. They stood one last time and his heart was pulsating in time with the final gospel's recitation. Once read, Father Johnathan joined Bella's right hand with Dimitri's. He relished her soft hands in his.

She wasn't his.

"Your vows, Isabella," Father Johnathan smiled.

She faced him, staring him deeply in his eyes. He stared back at her blue noticing all the things he hasn't before. He noticed the golden specks that rimmed around and mixed artistically with the black. Her eyes were fucking galaxies of their own and he merely wanted the earth.

"I, Isabella Rosaline Romero, take you Dimitrius Silas Asterio, to be my husband. To have to and to hold from this day forward for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us apart, according to God's holy law; and this is my solemn vow to you." Bella's words were sincere.

Dimitri recited his vows, meaning every single word he meant. He wishes she knew that.

After the final blessing, Dimitri's breath got caught in his throat. This final moment was the most important part of their wedding and he feels a wave of sadness transcend over him. Bella may never be his but he promises to cherish the moment for an eternity; with God and the whole world as his witness.

"You may kiss your bride, Dimitrius."

Bella closes her eyes. The kiss doesn't come.