Susan stood at the lectionary and began to read. "A reading from the book of Tobit." She looked down at the words in the book as she started. "On the wedding night Sarah got up, and she and Tobiah started to pray and beg that deliverance might be theirs. He began with these words: "Blessed are You, O God of our fathers; praised be Your name forever and ever. Let the heavens and all Your creation praise You forever. You made Adam and You gave him his wife to be his help and support; and from these two the human race descended. You said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone; let us make him a partner like himself.' Now, Lord, You know that I take this wife of mine not because of lust, but for a noble purpose. Call down Your mercy on me and on her, and allow us to live together to a happy old age."
"The word of the Lord," Susan concluded, and the congregation murmured, "Thanks be to God." Emily looked over to Sly and smiled. She silently prayed. Lord, I know I haven't been the best person in this life, and sometimes I even doubted Your existence. But over these past few months, I have come to know You and how You create miracles, like our child. Please watch over us today, that we may indeed grow old together.
*-*-*-*-*-*
Elizabeth looked over at Emily and Sly, so radiant in their happiness. She remembered that look- she saw it on Lucky's face the day they made their vows. She saw him looking at her out of the corner of her eye. It made her heart flutter a bit. She looked back to the priest when everyone stood to hear the Gospel.
"A reading from the holy gospel according to John," Father Clark proclaimed. He was dressed in the dark purple vestments of Lent.
"Glory to You, O Lord," the congregation said in unison. Sly made a small sign of the cross at his forehead, his lips, and his chest as he thought, May the Word of God always be on my mind, on my lips, and in my heart.
Father Clark began to read. "Jesus said to his disciples: "This is My commandment: love one another as I have loved you. There is no greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. I no longer speak of you as slaves, for a slave does not know what his master is about. Instead, I call you friends, since I have made known to you all that I heard from My Father. It was not you who chose me, it was I who chose you to go forth and bear fruit. Your fruit must endure, so that all you ask the Father in My name He will give you."
"This is the gospel of the Lord," Father Clark said as he closed the book. "Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ," everyone said as they sat down. Sly held out his hand to Emily for support. He thought about what the Gospel had said, then said his own silent prayer. Dear God, I want to thank You for everything You have done for me. I thought I would never see this day. But now you have blessed me with Emily and our child, and with all the people that care about us. Please watch over us now and always.
*-*-*-*-*-*
Lucky watched as Elizabeth attended to the train of Emily's gown as she stood to take her vows. Looking at her today, he couldn't help but think of Valentine's Day, 1999, when they made their own vows in front of God. He hoped that Sly and Emily could be as happy as he was that day. Judging from the looks on their faces, he thought so. As he looked around at the family and friends assembled, he felt a tug at his heart. When he was held captive, a day like this seemed only accessible in his dreams. Sometimes he doubted he would see any of these people again. That desperate solitude was a thief- it stole his hope, his courage. Slowly but surely, however, he had taken it back. He then let himself feel the atmosphere of the room, so full of bright promise. He was not surprised when tears sprang to his eyes. He let a few escape down his cheeks, and he tasted their sweet saltiness.
Laura looked over at Lucky, who had begun to softly cry. She was concerned, but then he gave her a soft smile, and she was relieved. She gently patted his back as they looked at the young couple on the altar.
"My dear friends," the priest began, "you have come together in this church so that the Lord may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of the Church's minister and this community. Christ abundantly blesses this love. He has already consecrated you in baptism and now He enriches and strengthens you by a special sacrament so that you may assume the duties of marriage in mutual and lasting fidelity. And so, in the presence of the Church, I ask you to state your intentions."
Father Clark looked at them. "Sylvester and Emily, have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?"
"Yes," Sly said, and Emily concurred. "Yes," she said.
"Will you love and honor each other as man and wife for the rest of your lives?"
"Yes," they both responded.
Sly and Emily then turned a bit more to face each other. Sly felt lightheaded from happiness. This is it, he thought.
Father Clark spoke again. "Since it is your intention to enter into marriage, join your right hands, and declare your consent before God and His Church."
Emily held Sly's strong hand in hers, and she felt that they both were trembling. She gave Sly a secret smile as she attempted to calm the butterflies in her stomach.
The priest turned to Sly first. "Sylvester, do you take Emily for your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
Sly looked deeply into Emily's brown eyes, which were pooling with tears like his. "I do," he said softly, yet full of conviction.
The priest then turned to Emily. "Emily, do you take Sylvester for your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
"I do," she whispered, and she was never so sure of anything in her life.
"You have declared your consent before the Church. May the Lord in His goodness strengthen your consent and fill you both with His blessings. What God has joined, men must not divide."
"Amen," Sly and Emily responded.
The priest then took the rings from Scott and blessed them, saying, "Lord, bless and consecrate Sylvester and Emily in their love for each other. May these rings be a symbol of true faith in each other, and always remind them of their love. We ask this through Christ our Lord."
"Amen," the congregation whispered.
Sly took Emily's ring, and her left hand. His hands were shaking a bit as he slipped the ring on her finger. "Emily, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
Emily smiled at Sly through her tears as she looked at the white gold band on her finger. She knew that they were both engraved inside with the word "Always," and the date, 3-16-01. She took Sly's left hand and placed the ring on his finger. "Sly, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." She could just barely slide the ring to Sly's second knuckle when it got stuck. Sly smiled at Emily as he manipulated it down the rest of the way unnoticeably.
The entire congregation said the Lord's Prayer. Then the priest extended his hands over Emily and Sly. "My dear friends, let us ask God for His continued blessings upon this bridegroom and his bride. Holy Father, Creator of the universe, Maker of man and woman in Your Own likeness, Source of blessing for married life, we humbly pray to You for this woman who today is united with her husband in this sacrament of marriage. May Your fullest blessing come upon her and her husband so that they may together rejoice in Your gift of married love. Lord, may they both praise You when they are happy and turn to You in their sorrows. May they be glad that You help them in their work and know that You are with them in their need. May they pray to You in the community of the Church, and be your witnesses in the world. May they reach old age in the company of their friends, and come at last to the kingdom of heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord."
"Amen," was the response.
Sly looked to Emily with anticipation. The ceremony was almost over. They were now truly married. He could not believe it.
The priest began to give his final blessing. "Please respond 'Amen' at the pause," he said. He then extended his hands again. "May God, the almighty Father, give you His joy and bless you."
"Amen," everyone responded.
"May the only Son of God have mercy on you and help you in good times and in bad."
"Amen."
"May the Holy Spirit of God always fill your hearts with His love."
"Amen."
"And may almighty God bless you all, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit," the priest said as he made the sign of the cross.
"Amen." The whole congregation extended forward as the priest said, "You may now exchange a kiss."
Sly and Emily leaned towards each other and shared a perfect kiss. They could taste the happy tears on their lips. Finally, they pulled away reluctantly when they heard the thunderous applause of the congregation.
Father Clark grinned. "I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Sylvester Eckert."
The organist began to play the recessional, and Sly and Emily began their walk down the aisle. Emily could scarcely believe that her feet were touching the ground. As they exited into the early evening darkness, Sly heard the church bells ring out their happiness. He very gently lifted her off the ground as he kissed her, a perfect seal to a perfect day.
*-*-*-*-*-*
"Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in a round of applause as we welcome Mr. and Mrs. Eckert to the dance floor."
Sly smiled at Jon as he and Emily rose from their seats and took to the floor. They had hired Wildfire as their band, of course. The band was happy to oblige. Sly also saw an added bonus. He could always get up on stage and sing a few if he felt like it. Sly never passed up an opportunity for a performance. He looked at the guys all spiffed up in their best performance clothes- black jeans with midnight blue shirts with two pockets, and brand new silver bolo ties, a gift from Sly to show his appreciation. He grinned at Emily as they reached the middle of the dance floor.
Emily got chills as Sly casually wrapped his left arm around her waist and pulled her into a warm embrace as they got ready to dance. It was simple, but it made her feel so wanted, like she was the luckiest woman in the world. She felt as if their bodies had melted into one as they began to sway to the soft rhythm. Jon started to sing.
There's some things I know to
be true
Snow is white and the ocean is blue
Rain is wet when it falls from the sky
And the stars come out every night
Sly buried his nose in Emily's hair, which smelled of the wildflowers that decorated it. Emily had found this song on a mix CD he had made once for an old girlfriend, which of course she teased him about. The song was beautiful anyway, and they both agreed that it should be their first dance.
And just as sure as the sun will
rise
This love is real you see in my eyes
Plant a seed and it will grow
Some things I know
Emily giggled as Sly whispered the words softly into her ear. His husky voice seemed made for singing. For a moment in time, it felt like they were the only ones the room, in the whole world.
There's some things in life I
need
Water to drink, air to breathe
A place to rest when I need sleep
When I'm hungry, food to eat
"She looks happy, doesn't she dear?" Edward asked.
"Of course, dear," Lila said as she sat beside Edward at one of the tables.
Edward fiddled with his top hat that he placed on the table. He had insisted on the hat and tails even if no one else wore them. This was a grand Quartermaine wedding; he should at least dress the part. He looked at Lila, resplendent in a soft lavender gown. He took her hand and kissed it. "I've only seen one person look as happy as her, and that was you, my dear, on our own wedding day."
Lila blushed as she remembered their special day from so many years ago. The memories were still fresh in her mind, as if it had taken place yesterday. "True. My feelings haven't changed."
Edward smiled, his eyes twinkling with a love that had withstood the test of time.
As sure as I need the Lord above
That's how much I need your love
I need shelter from the cold
Some things I know
Elizabeth scanned the room from her place at the small head table when she spotted Lucky. She was pleasantly surprised when Lucky met her gaze, and their eyes locked. As soon as she could, she was going to go over and talk to him. It had been a long time since she felt like he welcomed her presence, and she respected his feelings, and the distance. Now she knew, however, that maybe that time was over.
There's some things in life I
want
A house with a porch, trees out front
Someone to talk with, someone to hold
And walk with as we grow old
Scott made a goofy face at Serena and he saw her giggle from her place at a table with Lucy and Kevin. As his eyes drifted to the happily reunited couple, he sighed. It had always been obvious whom Lucy was meant to be with, he thought. You had your chance Baldwin, but you can't fight fate.
And I want all my dreams to come
true
And I want them all with you
And I just had to tell you so
Some things I know
Emily felt Sly's strong arms around her and she sighed contentedly. She knew that from now on, she had a partner, and that she was never going to be alone again. Right now, that was all she needed to know.
There's some things I know to be true
*-*-*-*-*-*
Elizabeth sighed in relief after dinner was finally over. Nearly all of her maid of honor duties had been completed, and now she had the time to talk to Lucky. As she was walking over, she bumped into Nikolas.
"I'm sorry," Nikolas mumbled, not looking up. He started to walk away when Elizabeth touched his shoulder.
"Hey, where are you running off to?" Elizabeth asked.
Nikolas looked past her to the entrance to the hallway. "Oh, I was just going to use the restroom," he said. This never gets any easier, he thought.
Elizabeth laughed. "Don't let me keep you then." She took another look at him. "Nikolas, are you sure that you're alright?"
Nikolas nodded stiffly. "I'm fine, Elizabeth, really." With that, he quickly walked away.
Elizabeth shook her head. Something was up with Nikolas- it must be a Cassadine thing. She turned to where she saw Lucky last, and he was still there. Unfortunately, his eyes did not meet hers this time. Instead, they were focused on the gorgeous blonde in front of him.
*-*-*-*-*-*
Jenny rubbed her feet after she slipped off her heels. She was never sure why women tortured themselves with ill-fitting footwear that only came off halfway through the night anyway. She looked over at Sly, who was talking animatedly in a group of people, his hand firmly in Emily's. It was obvious he had just said something funny, because the group shook with laughter. Sly leaned over and gave Emily a kiss on the cheek.
Paul leaned closely to Jenny. "Didn't anyone teach you it's not polite to stare?"
Jenny turned her gaze towards Paul. "I was just looking at Sly." She turned back toward him. "Did you ever think we'd see him this happy?"
Paul looked too. "He's come a long way."
"When he came home from Oregon, I thought for sure that we had lost the Sly we knew, and I think we did in a way. He was so scared."
"I remember how he used to jump at any little noise, and recoil at a touch," Paul related sadly.
"I was afraid that he would never be happy again. So I think that's what makes today all the better," Jenny summed up, leaving the conversation on a more hopeful note.
"Indeed," Paul said as he kissed her on the cheek.
"I hope they save the happy memories of this day." Jenny looked at Sly and Emily one more time. "Something tells me they're going to need them."
*-*-*-*-*-*
Lucky looked up a little at the tall girl with blonde hair that was in front of him. She was very striking. Her hair was up in a French twist, and she had a pair of sapphire earrings on that emphasized her blue eyes. Her long orange dress had a slit up the side that was dangerously close to her hip.
"So I think I look a little different than the last time you saw me," she laughed.
Lucky laughed as well. "I think so. You were fourteen?"
She nodded, and chuckled. "Don't remind me."
"You're the one who brought it up, Susan," Lucky smiled. Inwardly, he felt relaxed. It was the first time in a long time that he felt like his defenses weren't working overtime. Of course, relaxed for a Spencer was probably the height of stressed for someone else.
Susan tilted her head to the right slightly. "So how are you really, Lucky?"
Lucky smiled sadly. "Oh, I'm holding my own."
Susan returned the sad smile. She knew that look in his eyes. It was the same one Sly always had when he was remembering the past. She spoke slowly. "I heard about what happened. That Faison was really a bastard," she said bitterly.
Lucky gave her a curious look. "You speak as if you knew him."
Susan's eyes clouded over. "I did. He poisoned me when I was seven."
Lucky's eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa." He looked at her as she flexed her fists. "What happened?"
Susan cleared her throat. "My dad had gotten mixed up in this stupid cartel thing. Faison and his associates were bent on world domination. Eventually, my dad didn't want to help them anymore, but they insured his participation." She fidgeted a bit. "They poisoned me with a new and deadly virus. I don't even know when it happened," she said as she fought back tears. "All of a sudden, I got really sick. Dad was frantic because the doctors couldn't figure it out. Then one day, he gave me a pill, and I was suddenly better, but only for about a month or so."
Lucky nodded his head. "Faison had some kind of antidote and he was blackmailing Paul?"
Susan shook her head. "Yeah. If my dad kept helping them, then we would get the pill. If not, then I would die." She played with a ring on her finger. She was surprised how much it still hurt, even after all these years.
Lucky sensed her discomfort. "But you're here, you're healthy, right?"
Susan exhaled. "Yeah, I guess. The virus shot my immune system to hell, though. I've got to be really careful, because a simple cold could turn into pneumonia in a flash."
Lucky felt a wave of sadness. Faison had caused so much pain for way too many people. He knew Susan would never forget, just like he wouldn't be able to.
Susan saw that she had upset Lucky, and she felt badly. That was not her intent for starting this conversation. "I guess what I'm trying to say is that I know what it's like to have your future, your whole life, subject to the whims of a madman."
Lucky looked into her eyes, and he saw that she was speaking the truth. "Thanks. I know you do."
She smiled. "Would it be ok if I gave you a hug?"
He laughed. "I think that can be arranged."
She stooped down a little as they embraced. "If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here," she said.
Lucky nodded as he saw Elizabeth approach. He was sure he saw a hint of jealousy in her eyes.
Elizabeth walked even faster towards Lucky. Who was this girl? When the girl pulled away from Lucky and turned around, she realized it was Sly's cousin Susan. She mentally berated herself for jumping to conclusions. Lucky rewarded her with a knowing smile.
Susan smiled at Elizabeth when she finally reached them. "You must be Elizabeth. I've heard a lot about you from Sly and Emily."
"All good I hope," Elizabeth said. She kept sneaking glances at Lucky, and Susan noticed.
"You know, I'm going to go find my dad," Susan said and gave Lucky a wink.
"Thanks again Susan," Lucky said thoughtfully.
Elizabeth was grateful when Susan left. She had been waiting for this moment all night. She was about to open her mouth to say something when she saw all the color drain from Lucky's face. An audible gasp was heard in the enormous ballroom. She turned to see what he was looking at. Her heart tightened in fear when she saw who it was.
Lucky's voice was a barely audible whisper.
"Helena."
Song Credit: "Some Things I Know" written by Burton Collins and Sally Barris. Sung by Leeann Womack from her album of the same name.
The readings and prayers came from "The Catholic Wedding Book."