Chapter 44 ( This chapter ended up being a bit long. 😅 )



The sun had just begun to rise, casting a golden glow, where the wedding preparations were in full swing. The entire house was adorned with intricate garlands of jasmine and marigolds, their sweet scent floating in the air. Candles flickered on every surface, casting soft light that made the decorations seem like they were glowing with life.

Sky stood by the window, his heart beating a little faster than usual as he adjusted his traditional Thai clothes.

The cream-colored silk of his trandtional clothes was embroidered with gold patterns, rich and regal. Though his hands were still trembling with excitement. His mind kept drifting to the ceremony ahead, imagining the moment he would finally stand before Nani, and they would become husband and husband.

His family was bustling around him, the usual boisterous energy filling the room.

His mother stepped forward, adjusting the fabric on his sleeve with a critical but loving eye. She clucked her tongue as if she were still seeing him as the little boy she once had to care for, rather than the man he had become.

His sister in law stepped up behind him, a teasing smile on her face. "You're not going to get cold feet, are you? I hope you know that once you do this, you're stuck with him forever." Her voice was light, but there was an unmistakable warmth in her eyes.

Sky chuckled, turning to face her. "I'm not going anywhere, P. This is the best decision I've ever made."

The family gathered around, offering little jokes and warm words of encouragement. Sky felt a deep sense of connection, not just with his family, but with the life that was unfolding before him.

His parents had always planned his future with such precision, but today was different. Today, he was taking control of his own future, and it was all because of Nani.

His mother, noticing his quietness, gently placed a hand on his arm. "Are you nervous?" she asked, her voice soft and full of understanding.

Sky paused, then shook his head. "I was. But now... now I just want to be with him."

His sister in law grinned and gave him a playful shove. "Well, if you get too nervous out there, I'll be in the front row, making sure you don't mess it up."

Sky laughed, his nerves easing just a bit.

He looked once more at his reflection in the mirror. It wasn't just about the clothes, or the tradition, or the grandeur of the ceremony. It was about something that went beyond everything he had ever been taught. This day, he was stepping into the unknown—ready to spend his life with someone who had completely transformed his world.

He couldn't wait to get marry to the man who had stolen his heart, and to finally, officially, begin the rest of their journey together.

--

Nani stood in front of the mirror in his room, surrounded by his family, but none of their words could reach him. The moment felt surreal. He had never imagined himself standing here, wearing the traditional wedding clothes with its intricate gold and cream patterns, a thick sash around his waist.

Standing as a groom, and he couldn't help but admire the way the attire fit him perfectly.

The family couldn't help but stare, their smiles beaming as they admired him. His mother had tears in her eyes, pride and emotion overtaking her. while Prim gave him an exaggerated thumbs-up and grinned. "I can't believe my older brother looks like a prince. Are you sure you're ready for this?" she teased.

Nani smiled, but there was something deeper in his gaze. Something that spoke of how far he'd come. "I was never ready." he said softly. "But I think... I think I'm finally here."

His mother stepped forward, smoothing down the fabric with a soft touch, her voice thick with emotion. "You look just like your father on wedding day." she said, her voice full of love and nostalgia. "So strong, so beautiful. I never thought I'd see this day, but here you are."

"Hey, stop staring at yourself" Win joked, nudging him with his elbow. "You look great, but if you keep it up, I'm going to start questioning if you're really nervous about marrying Sky or just about your own reflection."

Nani chuckled, shaking his head.

Dew, always the romantic, sighed. "If I didn't know you, I'd say I'd be jealous of Sky right now. But knowing you, I'm sure you're about to make us all jealous when you walk into the ceremony."

"You all better not cry during the ceremony" he warned, though the playful tone in his voice didn't hide the deeper meaning. "I might be crying more than any of you."

When the moment passed, Nani took one last look at his reflection. The pride in his heart swelled. He was ready. And he knew that, no matter how he looked today, it wasn't his appearance that would define his marriage—it was the love he had for Sky, and the love they would grow together.

"Alright." Nani said, straightening his shoulders. "Let's go marry Sky, then."

--

The Khan Maak procession was about to begin, and Sky stood with his family, nervously.

In the traditional Thai wedding, the groom's procession was a significant event. Sky had to walk, carrying the Khan Maak, a beautiful tray adorned with gifts, gold, and symbolic items, towards Nani's family, all while navigating through a sea of relatives, all watching him expectantly.

His hands were trembling slightly as he reached for the tray, his grip faltering for just a second before he steadied himself.

"Sky, don't forget to smile" his mother whispered from behind.

Sky gave her a quick nod, trying to keep his nerves in check. He glanced over at Win, who was standing nearby with a mischievous grin on his face.

With each step Sky took, the guests lined up on either side, offering smiles, cheers, and playful comments.

The Khan Maak procession had its own set of traditional rituals, and one of them involved the family of the bride, Nani's side, holding a golden string across the path, preventing Sky from moving forward until he answered their questions or completed their requests.

As Sky approached the first golden string, a loud, teasing voice called out from Nani's cousin.

"Sky!" she shouted, holding the string high. "Before you can pass, you need to do something for us!"

Sky swallowed, his heart skipping a beat. He wasn't sure what to expect, but he could already tell this was going to be a challenge. He stepped forward cautiously, still holding the Khan Maak tray.

"Name one thing you love about Nani the most!" another relative called out, grinning widely.

Sky's mind raced. There were so many things he loved about Nani. But he knew this was part of the fun and tradition, so he put on his best confident smile.

"He acts heartless. People see his coldness, but they don't see how deeply he cares. How he pays attention to the smallest things, how he always makes sure the people he loves have everything they need, even when he pretends not to care. He thinks he hides it well, but I see it in him. And I love him for it." Sky replied smoothly. They cheered, and the string was lowered, allowing him to take the next step.

But as he walked, he noticed Win, who had been standing off to the side, grinning from ear to ear. The moment Sky approached another golden string held by Nani's others relatives, Win pounced.

"Oh, this is too good to pass up!" Win called out loudly, a mischievous gleam in his eyes as he stepped forward. "Sky! Let's see how strong you are!"

Sky froze, his face flushing with surprise.

Win held the golden string up higher, not letting Sky off the hook. "We want to see how strong the groom really is!"

Sky groaned, already knowing he was trapped. The crowd's eyes were all on him now, waiting for him to make a move.

"Alright, fine." Sky muttered, trying to keep his cool. In one swift motion, he began doing push-ups. His arms moved quickly and powerfully, each push-up more impressive than the last.

By the time he finished, the room was filled with applause and cheers, everyone clearly impressed by his strength.

"Not bad, groom!" someone called out, clearly impressed. Nani's cousin laughed, as she lowered the golden string, allowing him to pass.

Sky's cheeks were burning with embarrassment, but he couldn't help but laugh too.

"Not yet!" Win said, his grin widening. "You still have one more thing to do!"

Sky raised an eyebrow, already dreading what was coming next. "What now?"

Win held up the golden string and declared to the crowd "You've got to tell everyone here one thing about yourself that Nani doesn't know! We're testing the groom's honesty toward our Nani, right everyone?" He looked around at the crowd, who cheered and clapped in support.

Sky gave Win an exaggerated, pleading look. "Seriously, Win? Can't I just go in without further humiliation?"

But Win wasn't letting him off the hook that easily. "Oh no, Sky. You're not getting away with this that easily. You've gotta spill the beans. The guests are waiting."

Sky sighed, giving in with dramatic flair. "Alright, alright. Fine. You want honesty? Here it is." The crowd quieted, eager to hear what Sky would say.

"Back in high school... I totally had a crush on Nani. I mean, come on, who could resist those looks?" He paused "But don't get any ideas, it's not like I was obsessed or anything... it just... vanished. Totally vanished. Until, of course, we met again."

The room burst into laughter as everyone realized the truth behind Sky's words.

Win, who had been grinning the whole time, gave a dramatic gasp. "Well, well, well... looks like our groom was a little lovesick in his youth."

Sky chuckled, shaking his head at Win. "I can't believe I'm saying this. But hey, if it's for Nani, I'll do anything."

As the ceremony continued, approached Nani's bedroom door with a gentle smile, his heart beating faster with every step.

Nani, stood by the door waiting for him. The moment they locked eyes, something unspoken passed between them, something deep and full of meaning. Nani reached out his hand, and Sky took it, leading him outside to the waiting procession.



Once they reached the heart of the ceremony, the moment for the dowry tradition arrived.

Nani's mom sit a well design chair with other elderly and Sky's parents, her faces beaming with pride and love. She began counting out the dowry, an impressive collection of gold, jewelry, and other family heirlooms—all spread out in front of them.

Sky marveled at the wealth of tradition behind this moment. But, little did he know, it was about to become even more memorable—thanks to a certain friend.

As the ceremony unfolded, it was time for the playful dowry act and it is a part of the ceremony.

Win, with a look of exaggerated seriousness, picked up the dowry. "This" he said, dramatically balancing the heavy pile on his shoulder "is how much my friend is worth!"

The guests, already delighted by the sight of Nani in his groom's attire, now erupted in laughter at the show.

"Oh, this is a lot." he said with a wink, giving their a teasing look. "You must've really hit the jackpot, my friend."

Laughter erupted from the guests, and Nani, standing beside Sky, just shook his head with a grin. "Win, you're ridiculous."

Win didn't miss a beat. "Hey, I'm just making sure you know what you're getting into, Sky! You better take good care of my best friend here, or I might have to come after you." He winked, playfully setting the dowry back down.

Sky chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "I should've known this would be more of a circus than a ceremony."

Nani laughed softly. "What did you expect? This is Win, after all."

Win, not done yet, gestured to the guests and said, "Alright, alright, the fun's not over yet! Let's get back to it!" He then proceeded to hand out green peas, sesame, popped rice, and paddies, spreading them around the dowry as a sign of good fortune and happiness for the couple's future.

Win, having clearly enjoyed his role as the unofficial "mother" winked at Sky. "You're lucky, Sky. I could've made it much harder for you."

Sky laughed. "I'm just glad it's over."

"Not yet." Win replied with a cheeky grin. "But you're doing great so far."

--

After all the laughter, traditions, and playful teasing, the moment had finally come. The ceremony continued with Sky and Nani sitting side by side in front of the elderly. The traditional cream-colored carpet laid beneath them. The soft fabric felt cool against their legs, a stark contrast to the warmth of the moment as they sat together.



Win, carefully placed the rings on a small silver tray between Sky and Nani, the couple's eyes met, both of them feeling a moment of stillness, a brief pause before the weight of this promise settled in their hearts.

Sky couldn't help but look over at Nani, his heart swelling with love. Nani's eyes sparkled, though he tried to hide the slight nervousness under the calm facade.

The elders waited patiently, nodding with approval as the exchange of rings began. Nani slowly reached for Sky's hand, their fingers brushing together with a sense of finality. The same ring that he got for them before, a symbol of their love, slid onto Sky's finger.

Nani's eyes were filled with warmth as he sliding the ring onto Sky's finger. His voice, steady and sincere, rang clear, carrying the weight of his emotions.

"I never knew I needed someone like you. But now, I can't imagine my life without you. You came into my life like a storm, turning everything upside down, and somehow, you became the one thing I never want to let go of.

From today onward, I promise to be by your side, to carry your worries when they get too heavy, to catch you when you stumble, and to remind you, every single day, how much you are loved. I promise to be your home, your safe place. And, let's be honest, your personal trouble-fixer, because someone has to keep up with all the chaos you bring."

Win, of course, couldn't resist breaking the moment. "Damn, Nani, where did you learn to be this smooth? Are you sure you're not stealing lines from a drama?"

Nani turned his head slightly, shooting Win a mock glare. "Shut up, Win."

Laughter erupted from the crowd, but when Nani looked back at Sky, the rest of the world faded into the background.

Sky's smile trembled just slightly, his eyes shimmering under the golden lights.

Sky's mother signal Sky to put the ring for Nani. With steady hands, Sky took the ring and gently slid it onto Nani's finger.

"I promise to always stand by your side, through everything. You're the one I want to share my life with." Sky whispered, his voice filled with quiet certainty.

Then, after a brief pause, he added, "I know I can be reckless sometimes. I know I test your patience more than I should... but I also know that there's no one else I'd rather annoy at 3 AM over the last bite of dessert."

A soft chuckle rippled through the guests, but Sky didn't waver. His gaze remained locked onto Nani's, a warmth in his eyes that softened even the coldest edges of the man before him.

With a small, almost shy smile, Sky continued, "You're my safe place, my home. The one person who never lets go, no matter how difficult I can be. And from today forward, I want to spend every single day proving that I belong by your side."

Nani, who rarely showed emotions so openly, felt something tighten in his chest. Sky had always been the only one who could melt his icy exterior, the only one who could make him feel something deeper than what he let the world see.

--

Sky and Nani knelt side by side, their hands gently resting together over a golden tray filled with delicate jasmine flowers. As per tradition, Sky sat on the right, and Nani on the left. The ceremonial headpieces, Mong Kol, rested atop their heads, symbolizing the sacred bond they were about to fully embrace.

Sky stole a glance at Nani, and for a moment, the whole world seemed to fade. . His sharp features softened by the warm candlelight, the slight curve of his lips betraying the emotions he tried to keep under control.

"You're staring." Nani murmured without turning his head.

Sky smirked. "Can you blame me? My husband is ridiculously handsome."

Nani cleared his throat, trying to suppress a smile, but the faint pink dusting his ears gave him away.



Before their playful banter could continue, the first guest stepped forward, their parents. Sky's mother and father poured the sacred water from the conch shell over their hands.

"Sky" she began, her eyes glistening with emotion. "You can be stubborn and sometimes a little childish but I know that deep down, your heart is full of love. From now on, you have someone to walk this life with. So take care of Nani, cherish him, and don't let your stubbornness push him away."

Sky, uncharacteristically quiet, nodded, feeling a lump form in his throat.

His father then took his turn, his voice steady yet affectionate. "And Nani" he said, looking at his new son-in-law "I know my son can be... a handful."

"But" Sky's father continued with a smile "he's a good person, and he loves with his whole heart. We're trusting you to be patient with him, to guide him when he's too headstrong, and to remind him that he doesn't always have to carry everything alone."

Nani's lips curved into a small, fond smile. "I'll do my best."

Sky, finally finding his voice, blinked between them. "Wait... is Nani your son now? Or am I still your son?"

His mother laughed, patting his cheek affectionately. "Oh, sweet boy. Nani is part of our family now. But don't worry, you're still ours... just a little less spoiled now that you have a husband."

"Don't worry." Nani teased "I'll spoil you enough to make up for it."

Sky huffed, pretending to be annoyed, but his glowing expression betrayed him. "You better."

Then came Nani's mother.

She poured the water over their hands, her voice warm and full of emotion.

"Nani, my son," his mother began, her voice carrying both affection and pride. "You've always been strong, someone who carries the weight of the world on your shoulders without ever asking for help. Independent, capable, always taking care of others."

She turned to Sky with a knowing smile. "But even the strongest people deserve someone to lean on. Sky, my dear, I trust you'll stand beside my son, not behind him, not in front of him, but right next to him. Because while Nani may not need saving, he does deserve someone who will hold his hand through everything."

Sky straightened up slightly, taking in the weight of those words. "I will" he promised.

Nani's mother gave a nod, then suddenly sighed. "But I must admit, I always thought Nani would end up marrying his work first."

Win piped up "Oh, don't worry, Auntie! Sky will be competing with Nani's work for attention every day!"

The crowd erupted in laughter as Nani rolled his eyes. "Alright, alright. Can we move on before Sky finds a way to turn this back on me?"

Then it was their friends' turn.

Win, for once, didn't start with a joke. He held the conch shell carefully, his usual mischievous glint dimmed by something softer, something sincere. As the water flowed over Sky's hand, he looked directly at Sky.

"Sky, I know you love him." Win said, his voice steady. "But I need to say this anyway, take care of his heart. This man has been through enough." His eyes flickered to Nani for a brief second before returning to Sky. "So don't be careless with it."

Win turning to Nani, tilting his head slightly. "And you" he said, voice still serious, "just because you're married now doesn't mean you have to carry everything alone. You've got someone next to you now, but if things ever get too heavy, you know where to find me."

But, of course, Win couldn't leave it at that. He let out an exaggerated sigh, rolling his eyes. "Alright, that's enough of me being soft. I feel itchy already."

With a smirk, he added, "Oh, and just so you both know, it doesn't matter if your first kid is a boy or a girl... but it would be better if my first nephew arrives ASAP."

Laughter rippled through the guests as Nani gave Win a dry look. "You do realize I can still make your life miserable, right?"

But before the conversation could spiral, Dew stepped forward, smacking Win lightly on the arm. "Move aside, troublemaker. Some of us actually came to bless the couple, not just bully them."

Win held his hands up in surrender, but the smug grin never left his face.

Dew took his place, giving both Sky and Nani a warm smile before carefully pouring the water over Sky's hands.

"I just want you both to know that you deserve all the happiness in the world. Love isn't always easy, but I believe in you two."

Sky felt his throat tighten at the unexpected warmth in Dew's words. "Thanks, Dew."

Dew smirked slightly. "Of course, if either of you ever messes up, I'll be the first to throw hands."

Nani chuckled. "Duly noted."

Prim stepped forward next, her gentle smile on her face as she carefully poured the water over.

"P Nani, please go easy on my brother-in-law. If you bully him too much, I'll have to step in."

Nani chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "Are you threatening me, Prim?"

Prim shook her head with an innocent smile. "Nooo~ I'm just looking out for my brother in law."

Then she turned to Sky, her expression turning a little more playful. "And you, Sky, don't be scared of my brother."

"He's already madly in love with you." She leaned in slightly, whispering loud enough for everyone to hear "If you ever want anything, just say a word. My brother will do anything to get it for you."

Sky immediately turned to Nani, smirking. "Is that true?"

Nani scoffed, pretending to be unbothered. "Don't listen to her nonsense."

Prim beamed, looking proud of herself. "It's not nonsense if it's the truth!"

One by one, the guests came forward, each blessing filled with love, humor, and heartfelt hopes for their future.

By the time the last guest finished, Sky looked at Nani, his heart full.

--

As the ceremony continued, the air was thick with reverence and respect. Sky and Nani knelt before their parents and elders, bowing low in a traditional gesture of respect. Both of them were filled with gratitude and humility as they prepared to ask for forgiveness, their hearts swelling with love and reverence for the people who had raised them and shaped who they were today.



Nani's mother, who had been watching her son with a tearful but proud expression, gently tied the holy thread around Nani's wrist, a silent blessing of protection and good fortune. She smiled warmly at both him and Sky before taking a step back, but not before presenting Nani with an unexpected gift.

With a dramatic flourish, she revealed a large envelope, holding it out with care. "Sky, this is for you."

He opened it to find a deed to a piece of land, one that was currently being rented by a large supermarket chain. Sky's eyes widened as he scanned the details on the paper.

"Mom... is this...?" SKy asked, unable to hide his astonishment.

"Yes, It's a piece of land worth millions. Right now, it's being rented out, which is why its value has grown significantly. I want this to be your."

The room erupted in happy shouts and applause as everyone around them took in the value of the gift.

Nani's mother smiled, her eyes sparkling with emotion. "You're a part of our family now, and I want you to have everything you deserve."

Sky, still in awe, gave her a deep bow. "Thank you, Mom. I don't know what to say."

Then, it was Sky's parents' turn. His father stepped forward, tying the holy thread around Nani's wrist with care before presenting him with several pieces of gold, each one gleaming and heavy in his hands.

"These are for you, Nani." Sky's father said, his tone warm but serious. "We want you to have these as a symbol of our family's trust in you. Take care of them, and may they bring you both the prosperity and happiness you deserve."

The pieces of gold were stunning, their weight solid and undeniable. Nani's hands shook slightly as he accepted them, knowing the true value they held—both in wealth and in the depth of the gesture.

"Thank you, father." Nani said, his voice filled with gratitude.

The room once again erupted in cheers and applause. It was a moment of pure celebration, a testament to the love and generosity of both families.

Win leaned over to Dew, his voice low but full of playful drama, as he watched the exchange of gifts.

"Dew" Win whispered with a grin, "If I don't get a pile of money like Sky and Nani when I get married, I swear I'll never get married in this life. It's just not worth it without the gold and land!"

Dew gave him an amused look, shaking his head. "Well, looks like you'll be single for life, then, Win."

Win scoffed, dramatically clutching his chest. "Heartless! Absolutely heartless, Dew!" He sighed heavily, shaking his head. "I thought you'd at least root for me to have a rich future."

Dew chuckled, crossing his arms. "Win, you don't even believe in love after your last breakup. What are you going to do with all that money? Frame it and hang it on the wall?"

Win smirked. "Exactly. If love won't last, at least gold and land will."

Their friends overheard and burst into laughter, shaking their heads at Win's antics. But deep down, they all knew—when the right person came along, even Win wouldn't be able to resist.

--

As the ceremony neared its conclusion, the nuptial bed was about to begin. Sky and Nani, now officially married, sat in anticipation as the elders led them through the last ritual.

Before they could even enter the bedroom, Nani's Sky stepped forward to invite a couple who had been happily married for many years to arrange the nuptial bed. This couple, renowned for their strong and loving relationship, were given the task of preparing the bed with all the necessary items for a prosperous married life.

On the bed, they carefully placed two pillows, each symbolizing the couple's shared dreams and the harmony of their union.

Around the pillows, they arranged the traditional items: mortar and pestle for strength and support, a winter melon for fertility and abundance, an old male cat to bring good luck, beans and paddies for prosperity, and a bowl of rainwater to symbolize purity and freshness in their marriage.

Nani couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the cat, its grumpy face making everyone laugh. "Well, I guess that's one way to ensure good luck"

Sky, still a bit overwhelmed by all the traditions, raised an eyebrow. "Do we really need all this?"

His parents, now standing proudly beside him, smiled warmly. "It's for your good fortune and happiness" Sky's mother explained, her voice soft and full of love. "May your marriage be filled with laughter, health, and prosperity."

Nani, unable to hide his grin, leaned in and whispered to Sky "So... we need to make sure we take care of the cat, right?"

Sky nodded, chuckling. "Yeah, I guess so. Let's hope it's a good omen!"

The guests laughed along, and with a final blessing from the elders, the newlyweds were invited into the room, where they would start their new chapter together, surrounded by the love and wisdom of those who had come before them.

--



As the evening breeze carried the soft melody of laughter and conversation, Sky and Nani walked hand in hand down the aisle toward the grand wedding cake, its towering tiers adorned with delicate flowers and shimmering gold accents.

The glow of the fairy lights cast a warm, romantic hue over them, making the moment feel almost dreamlike. The guests watched in anticipation, phones at the ready, eager to capture every second.

With matching smiles, they each took a small piece of cake, turning to feed one another. Of course, Sky grinned mischievously before smearing a bit of frosting onto Nani's cheek as he fed him the cake.

Laughter exploded through the crowd.

"Nani, don't let him get away with that!" Win called out, practically bouncing on his feet in excitement. "Come on, get him back!"

One of the guest joint "Yeah, Nani! This is your one last chance for revenge!"

Even Prim covered her mouth to suppress her giggles. "Don't be too nice. You have to at least pretend to fight back! P Nani"

Everyone waited for Nani's retaliation. They expected him to smear frosting all over Sky's face, to playfully mess up his hair, or at least flick a bit of cake at him. But instead, Nani simply let out a small breath of laughter, shaking his head as if he had long accepted his fate.

With a soft, almost amused smile, he took his piece of cake and gently fed it to Sky—no tricks, no teasing. Just a quiet, sincere gesture. His gaze lingered for a second too long, his eyes filled with something far deeper than words could express.

The teasing died down for a brief moment as realization dawned on everyone.

"Oh... oh no" Dew muttered, nudging Win. "Did you see that?"

Win blinked, then dramatically gasped. "Oh my god. He's gone."

Sky's sister in law nod agree with Win "This is bad. This is really bad."

Dew snickered. "Nani, blink twice if you need us to rescue you. It's too late, isn't it?"

But Nani didn't even hear them. He was still looking at Sky, his smile small but full of something warm and unwavering.

And at that moment, everyone in the wedding knew.

Knew exactly who had fallen deeper.

As the moment for the bouquet toss arrived, guests eagerly gathered in a flurry of excitement, all vying for the chance to catch the coveted flowers. Laughter and cheers filled the air, creating an electric atmosphere.

But amidst the chaos, the groom's friends stood lazily to the side, making no effort to join the commotion.

Win crossed his arms. "I'm not even gonna pretend I care about this" he muttered. "I don't believe in love, anyway."

Prim adjusted her dress with a smirk. "I still have goals to accomplish before even thinking about marriage."

Dew, who was standing beside them, merely sighed. "I already have my hands full with Tee" he said, his gaze drifting toward the person in question.

With no one in their group interested, they assumed they'd be safe from the bouquet's reach. But fate had other plans.

As Nani prepared to throw the bouquet, he turned to glance at Sky. But just as he lifted his arms, Sky instinctively reached out, placing a firm hand on Nani's waist.

"What are you doing?" Nani whispered, confused but amused.

"Making sure you don't fall over from all that excitement" Sky murmured back, his voice laced with teasing.

Nani huffed, rolling his eyes but leaning into the touch just slightly. "I'm not that clumsy as you, okay?"

But before their quiet moment could linger, Nani finally tossed the bouquet high into the air, and as expected, it sent the guests into a frenzy.

Smack.

It landed directly in Win's hands.

A stunned silence fell over the group as Win stared at the flowers in horror, as if he had just caught a live grenade. "Oh, hell no." Without hesitation, he shoved it into Prim's hands.

Prim, unfazed, immediately tossed it toward Dew. "Here, you take it!"

Dew recoiled, catching it reluctantly. "Nope, not happening." He tried to throw it back, but just as he raised his hands...

Tee intercepted it.

Tee held the bouquet with an easy smile, looking down at it with mild amusement. "Guess that means it's mine now?"

For a moment, silence. Then—

"YOU'RE NEXT!" Win shouted, grabbing Dew by the shoulders and shaking him dramatically. "IT'S OVER FOR YOU! START PICKING OUT YOUR WEDDING SUIT!"

Dew groaned, shoving Win away while their friends burst into laughter. Meanwhile, Tee just chuckled, twirling the bouquet in his hands. "Well, I wouldn't mind." he said casually, making Dew's ears turn bright red.





As the evening slowly came to an end, laughter still lingered in the air, the warmth of celebration wrapping around them like a soft embrace. Guests were starting to leave, their well wishes echoing in the night. Nani let out a quiet breath, thinking everything had finally come to a close.

But just as he turned, ready to step away, a firm yet gentle grip found his waist.

Sky.

Before Nani could question him, Sky pulled him in, their bodies closing the space between them in one fluid motion. The first notes of a song began to play, the soft melody drifting through the evening air.

Nani blinked, momentarily speechless. "Sky...?"

Sky smiled, a little breathless himself. "You love Western weddings, right?" he murmured, his voice tender as he intertwined their fingers. "That's why I planned this part too. Just for you."

Nani's chest tightened, a warmth blooming inside him.

Without another word, Sky began to sway, leading them into a slow dance under the golden glow of the fairy lights. His eyes never left Nani's, a gaze filled with something deep, something unspoken yet undeniable.

Nani didn't speak, but he didn't pull away either.

Sky's hands rested securely on his waist, fingers pressing gently but firmly, as if afraid Nani might slip away. Nani's own hands found their place on Sky's shoulders, hesitant at first before settling naturally. Their movements were slow, almost instinctive, their bodies falling into an easy rhythm without effort.

The soft glow of the fairy lights cast a golden hue over Sky's face, stealing Nani's breath away. He swallowed, his fingers unconsciously tightening against the fabric of Sky's suit. Sky noticed but said nothing, only pulling him closer.

For a few moments, they swayed in perfect sync, their breaths steadying together, their hearts beating in quiet harmony.

Nani's body melted into Sky's, the space between them disappearing until it felt like they were one. His cheek rested against Sky's shoulder, eyes fluttering shut as he let himself sink into the warmth that only Sky could give.

"I know I don't have to say this" Nani murmured "but I want to. From this day forward, you're stuck with me. If there ever comes a day when you feel tired of me... just rest. But leaving? That's not an option. I won't allow it."

Sky stilled for a moment, then let out a soft, breathy laugh, his arms tightening around Nani's waist as if sealing a promise. "That day will never come" he whispered against Nani's temple, his voice unwavering. "I'm not just stuck with you, I want to be with you. Forever. Every day, for the rest of my life. Until the very end."

Then, with a tenderness that made Nani's chest tighten, Sky pressed a lingering kiss to his hair, letting it rest there as they continued to move as one.