Janet eventually excused herself to take one of the microphones up to Jai and Stuart. Since the wedding ceremony had been so impersonal, they’d saved their vows for now, and gradually the room quieted as the newlyweds stood up and moved to the front of their table, still up on the little platform so everyone could see. They were still wearing their flower crowns, and with the warm spotlight on them both, Ryann thought they looked marvelous together. Jai spoke first.

“I want to begin by thanking everyone who took a workday off for our celebration today, and especially those of you who came from far away last minute to join us in our happiness. Thanks also to our families and our wedding party for supporting us throughout this adventure.”

After a smattering of applause, he turned to face his new husband.

“Stuart. When we met, exactly one year ago, I never imagined the kind of happiness I’d have here with you today. Growing up gay here wasn’t easy, and that was our first connection, since you came from a similar background. Then, as I spent more time with you, I realized there was more to us than that, and more to you than your handsome face.”

Stuart broke into a wide smile, and they joined hands. Jai cleared his throat and swallowed a few times before continuing.

“You are, to begin with, an amazing artist. Your work is breathtaking, and I’m proud to know that I’ll be the first person to see what you create next. You’re also incredibly loyal, and you’re fierce in that loyalty. I pledge to you my heart, my life, and my own fierce loyalty. And I know with you that I’ll be the happiest man alive.”

After more wild clapping and shouting, it took a little longer for everyone to fall silent for Stuart’s speech. She could tell, however, that this was a good thing, as it took a couple of minutes for him to compose himself.

During the pause, she and Maddie shared a long, piercing exchange, eyes locked. Both had tears streaming down their cheeks. Maddie grabbed her hand, squeezing it ostensibly to reassure her, but Ryann’s heart sank once again despite herself. As they stared at each other, she wondered how she could have allowed herself to think that she could accept what was about to happen to them. Still, they had tonight, and she wanted to enjoy it.

Stuart cleared his throat. Even so, when he spoke, his voice was choked with emotion.