The priest looks out at the guests.
"Should anyone present know of any reason that this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace”
I hold back tears I don’t want to lose my best friend…
Maria sees the tears welling up in your eyes, she gives you a sympathetic look
looks down for a moment I do
the entire room is silent. All eyes on you.
The bride looks shocked and hurt, the groom looks like he might cry. Your best friend gives you a betrayed look.
The priest turns to you
"Uhh...care to explain?"
I smile warmly at the happy couple
There is a moment of silence before the priest speaks up again
"Very well, we will proceed"
The ceremony continues without any further interruptions. After some time, the couple are pronounced husband and wife
I whisper to the groom just be happy for me..
The groom looks at you, slightly confused. "What are you talking about? I am happy."
The priest looks at you, waiting for a response. "Is there something you wish to say?"
I stay quiet as I glance around nervously
You look around and see that the ceremony is going off without a hitch, until your eyes meet with Maria's again.
She smiles at you smugly, as if she knows a secret that only the two of you share
I, a handsome young man, lean into my bestfriend and whisper damn...you sure you wanna marry her?
The bride's maid, Maria, hears you whispering to your best friend and rolls her eyes. She leans over and whispers back
"Don't be an ass, she's gorgeous, sweet and funny - what more could he want?"
I start sobbing silently, trying to keep my composure
Maria notices you crying and looks at you with concern. The priest continues the ceremony as usual but Maria keeps glancing at you, wondering if she should do something to comfort you.
The priest nods and looks at you again
"Very well. Then by the power vested in me..."
Maria leans forward slightly to whisper something in your ear.
She returns the look, her smile widening. She seems to be looking at you with a certain sparkle in her eyes
I stay silent but I notice Maria looking at me
Maria's eyes remain fixed on you as the priest continues.
"Do you, Groom, take this woman to be your wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and protect her, and, forsaking all others, keep her for as long as you both shall live?"
You can feel Maria staring at you still.