Daniel's POV
It was a Saturday afternoon, the week before our wedding.
Johnny and I were in the living room watching a movie, eating some popcorn and pizza, and snuggling up in a blanket.
We were rewatching the Rocky series and were on the fourth one. The scene that was playing on the TV right now was when Apollo and Drago were boxing.
I was very excited to watch the match because it was interesting, while Johnny, on the other hand, was on the edge of his seat, biting his nails. I rolled my eyes. He's been telling me to stop biting my nails, and he's doing it now. What a hypocrite!
Apollo entered the ring with a dramatic entrance, with James Brown performing “Living in America.”
Drago enters the ring, and from beside me, I can hear Johnny booing.
“Honey” I began, “Y'know, it's just a movie, right? It's not real.”
Johnny ignored me, of course, and continued to watch the boxing match like his life depended on it.
Whenever Apollo landed a punch on Drago or blocked one, Johnny would get excited, but then Drago would land several different hits on him, and Johnny would get anxious.
I didn't really know what to do at this point but to continue watching, wishing that it wouldn't get worse for Apollo but knowing that it would.
The first match came to an end, and Apollo looked like shit. Apollo’s trainer, Rocky, pleaded with him to stop the match, but Apollo refused.
“Listen to them,” Johnny chided. “Stop the fucking match.” He sounded like he was on the verge of tears.
The second match started, and Apollo was punched like there was no tomorrow. Apollo fell to the floor, twitching and eventually dying.
I hear Johnny crying, not just a few tears, but actually bawling his eyes out and whimpering.
“Aww, Johnny, honey, c'mere,” I told him, and he nestled his head on my shoulder while I wrapped my hands around him.
“Do you still want to watch the fifth movie?” I asked him.
"Yeah,” he sighed. “I need some cheering up though, Johnny smirks, raising his eyebrows in the most ridiculous way.
"Oh, I think I know what you mean,” I grinned.
Johnny lifts his head up, and we both lean in for a kiss.
Suddenly, there is a knock on our door, and we jolt apart.
Johnny groans, “When will we get our alone time?”
“Later,” I smiled, giving him a peck on the lips and standing up to open the door.
In front of the door were the girls and the guys.
“What are you guys doing here?” I asked them.
They looked at each other with smiles on their faces.
Ali and Bobby stepped forward, both with what looked to be presents in their hands.
“We came to say that we're finally finished setting it up,” bubbled Ali.
“Setting up what?” Johnny, who finally stood up and came to the door, asked.
Ali's smile dropped, and she turned around to see where the others were standing.
“You were meant to tell them.” Ali groaned to Dutch.
“I forgot I'm really busy,” Dutch confessed.
“Busy? Busy with what?” Ali huffed. “I would smack you right now, but I'm against animal abuse.”
The others laughed, and Johnny and I—even though we tried not to—snickered a bit.
“Why you little-”
Bobby cleared his throat in an attempt to calm everyone down.
“We’ve finished setting up your guys' bachelor parties,” Bobby explained.
Oh, that's really nice of them, but the thing is...
I took Johnny's hands in mine. “We were actually thinking of not having bachelor parties.”
“Nonsense” Jessica scoffed. “You guys have to. We've spent months organising this. You guys can't just say no.”
“Yeah” Tommy chimed in, “It's our treat.”
I look at Johnny and ask, “What do you think?”
Johnny shrugged. “I'm not going to turn down a party.”
“Great!” Amanda chirped.
“What are you waiting for?” Jimmy asked, “Go, pack your bags.”
We got to the airport, and I looked around to see if I could find Johnny as we went in different taxis.
When I didn't see them, I asked the girls, “Do you guys know where Johnny and the guys are?” I asked them.
“They got stuck in traffic, so they are catching the next flight. Let's go, though our plane is boarding.”
I nodded and got onto the plane. Thank God I got the window seat. Before we lifted off, I texted Johnny, sent him a picture of me smiling, and sent a love heart. He told me that he had just arrived at the airport. He told me that he was exhilarated, though he had already missed me.
I smiled at the text and put my phone on aeroplane mode, excited for my party in South Carolina.
*****************
Johnny's POV
The guys and I made it on our flight in time and were able to sit beside each other.
“So we're going to Las Vegas, right?” I asked them.
“Yeah, it's the best place for a bachelor party, no doubt,” Tommy grinned while the others murmured in agreement.
I hummed and looked out the window, and I was able to see the two streets. I smiled, and before I knew it, I was dozing off.
*****************
Daniel's POV
We landed in South Carolina, or, to be more specific, Myrtle Beach, and we made our way to the hotel without stopping to get drinks.
“What will we be doing?” I asked them.
"Well, since we're going to be here for two days, I think for now we should get some sleep right now, as tomorrow we're going to the Boardwalk and Promenade,” Amanda explained.
I perked up at the sound of that “Really!?”
“Yeah” Jessica beamed, “Now let's go to sleep.”
*****************
Johnny's POV
Of course, the first thing we did after getting off the plane was go to a casino; it's Las Vegas, so we had to.
We entered the Golden Nugget Casino and immediately went to the bar to get some drinks.
“What would you guys like?” the bartender asked.
Jimmy lightly punched me on the arm. “We'll have whatever he's getting.”
I whispered to the guys, “I don't even know what you can get.”
Bobby laughed, “We'll all get the Hurricane.”
"Alright, coming up.”
“What's in the Hurricane?" I asked Bobby.
“It's just white rum, dark rum, passion fruit juice, lime juice, and orange juice with those sugar and grenadine syrups; it's not that bad,” Bobby answered.
"Yeah, it's your bachelor party; you can get as drunk as you want,” Tommy chimed in.
We sat down on the stools next to the bar, talking about Rocky, tears threatening to fall from remembering that Apollo died.
A woman came up to our table, she wore a skimpy dress and dark red lipstick. She was pretty, but she wasn't my type.
She rested her hand on my shoulder, making me shiver, and she started purring at me, “Hey, you're cute.”
I freeze up. “Um, thanks, but I’m getting married,” I say, removing her hand from my shoulder.
“Can you leave us alone?” Dutch hissed at her.
The woman scoffed, ignoring Dutch. “I don't see your fiancé anywhere,” she said, smirking. “I mean, it's your last day of freedom before you get married. I'm sure she won't mind.”
I breathed in and out what the hell was wrong with her.
"Actually, he is at his own bachelor party, so can you leave?” I asked.
She rolled her eyes and said, "Whatever,” and stormed off.
I sighed while the bartender gave us our drinks. “I can't wait to get married,” I mumbled to myself.
*****************
It was the day of our wedding. The day I've been looking forward to for months is finally here.
Daniel and I were in separate rooms, so we couldn't talk to each other, but it was hard to believe that the next time I saw him, he was going to be a Lawrence instead of a Larusso. I chuckled a bit and continued to get ready.
I was in the middle of fixing my bow tie when I heard the door open. I turned around to see my mom smiling at me.
"Ahh, look!” she gushed. “My little baby boy is about to be married soon.”
I laughed. “I'm not a baby anymore, mom.”
“You will always be my baby, no matter what,” she sniffled.
At that point, my eyes were glassy, and tears were threatening to spill out.
I came up to her and gave her a careful hug full of lots of emotions. I didn't know what to feel—happy, sad, or angry.
“I'm so happy that you're still here to be at my wedding,” I told her, tears running down my face.
“Me too, Johnny. I'm so proud of you. Never forget that.” She said, “I just wish you had a better childhood. I'm such a terrible mother for putting you through that.”
“Mom, that wasn't your fault, ok? Don't be too hard on yourself; you only did what you thought was right at the time.”
I gave her some tissue to dry her tears.
“Sorry, I don't want you to remember the bad times on what's said to be the best day of your life.”
"Mom, it's ok.”
“I guess I'll leave you be; the ceremony is starting in a few minutes. I should go find my seat,” she told me, hugging me again before exiting the room and leaving me with my thoughts.
I finished putting on my suit, grabbed the very long sheet where my vows were, and left the room.
*****************
I made my way towards the altar. I looked around, overjoyed to see all of my friends and family here to celebrate the most important day of my life.
When I got to the altar, I was met with Bobby, my best man, and the guys, the girls on the opposite side of me with light gold dresses.
I greeted the officiant and took my place at the stand.
A few minutes later, Daniel, accompanied by his mother, made their way to the altar, and everyone stood up to get a look at him.
“All In Love” played in the background, and my God, Daniel looked stunning in his white suit, similar to mine, and black bowtie.
When it's love, you make
I'll be the fire in your night.
Then it's love you take.
I will defend, and I will fight.
I'll be there when you need me, yeah.
When honour's at stake
This vow I will make, yeah
Daniel finally reached the altar, but not before Lucille gave him a big wet kiss on the cheek. I didn't want to cry this early, but seeing Daniel's hands in mine made me tear up.
“You may be seated,” the officiant started.
“We are gathered here today to witness the sacred union of Johnny and Daniel. We stand here to honour and celebrate the love shared between these two people as they come together to start their new life with a solemn vow, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Johnny and Daniel are overjoyed that you are able to join us here today,” the officiant proclaimed.
“This ceremony celebrates the beginning of your marriage. It’s a journey of love, understanding, perseverance, and dedication to one another that lasts through time. As we stand here today to mark this occasion, we remember that what matters most is not the ceremony itself, but the love and companionship you will continue to share throughout your married life together.”
“If anyone objects to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace,” the officiant added.
Obviously, no one objected unless they probably would’ve been dragged out. I chuckled a bit, making Daniel smile. His smile was just so damn contagious that I couldn't stop myself from grinning.
“Very well then,” the officiant said, continuing.
“There are no vows more meaningful and powerful than those that will be shared here today. Your wedding vows are a sacred declaration of your love for each other, the foundation of your relationship as a married couple, and the life you want to build together.”
“Please face each other as you declare these vows to one another. Johnny, you may start.
I quickly take a deep breath in and out before starting, “Daniel, my sunshine, as I stand before you today, I am reminded of the very first day fate decided our paths should cross. A day as unexpected as the story it began. Who could have known that a moment of misunderstanding, a fleeting threat born out of confusion, would be the brushstroke that painted our future together? It's been four years since that day, and every moment, every challenge, and every laugh has brought us closer, weaving our lives together in the most unexpected and beautiful way.
You, my love, are truly beautiful, both inside and out. Your empathy and compassion are the lights that guide me, the anchors that hold me steady in life's most turbulent seas. Your affection and care have been my solace and my home. On days when the world seemed too heavy to bear, you were my refuge. When my mom was battling cancer, you stood by me like a pillar of strength and hope. With your support, we navigated one of the darkest times of my life. Your generosity, your love, and your unwavering presence helped us through, and I can't thank you enough for being my partner through it all.
So, today, before our families and friends, I make these promises to you:
I couldn't look at him while I was saying it, because I knew if I did, I would burst into tears and not be able to finish saying my vows.
I vow to love you unconditionally through every twist and turn life may throw our way. In the face of every challenge, in every joy and sorrow, my love for you will remain constant and unwavering.
I promise to create a loving home for us, a sanctuary where we can grow together and nurture the beautiful bond that we share. A home filled with laughter, understanding, and love, where every door opens to happiness and every window looks out to the future we will build together.
I vow to protect and care for you and to stand beside you against any storm. My arms will always be your shelter, and my heart will always be your guard.
I promise to always make you laugh, to cherish the moments when I call you "sunshine," and to see the light it brings to your eyes. Your happiness will always be my priority, and I will spend every day looking for new ways to bring joy into your life.
I vow to respect and cherish you and to recognise the value of the love we share. I promise to listen with an open heart and an open mind, to support your dreams, and to walk beside you as an equal partner in this journey we call life.
Daniel, as we embark on this new chapter together, I look forward to the life we will build, the memories we will make, and the love that will continue to grow between us. With you, I have found my partner, my love, and my laughter. You are my sunshine on cloudy days, and I am beyond grateful to call you mine.
Today, I give you my heart, my promise, and my life, from this moment until the end of time.”
I looked up, trying to blink back my tears. Daniel was crying too, and he squeezed my hands.
Daniel, please now make your vows.
“How am I going to top that?” Daniel asked, making everyone in the crowd laugh.
He smiled, drying his eyes a bit before continuing.
“My Dearest Johnny,
As I stand before you today, I am reminded of the first moment our paths crossed. Who could have imagined that a somewhat threatening introduction would lead to this beautiful day? It was four years ago when you charmingly cornered me with that unforgettable warning. Yet, here we are, proving that love truly works in mysterious ways. From that peculiar beginning, you became the most significant part of my life, transforming every moment with your warmth and laughter.
As I take your hand in mine, I promise to love you unconditionally through every chapter of our story. I vow to create a loving home with you—one filled with laughter and joy, warmth, and comfort. A home where love is the foundation of everything we build together.
I promise to make you laugh always, for I have seen how our laughter can brighten even the gloomiest days. I respect and cherish you, for you are my equal in every way. Your dreams and ambitions are as important to me as my own, and I vow to support you at all times, standing by your side as we face the world together.
We will navigate the ups and downs of life, celebrating our victories and facing our challenges head-on. I promise to be there for you, to hold your hand through the storms, and to bask in the sunshine beside you.
In you, I have found my best friend, my soulmate, and the love of my life. Today, I give you my heart and my soul, promising to cherish and honour you for all the days of my life. With every beat of my heart, I will love you more—today, tomorrow, and forever.”
I took a deep breath again. I think my heart just exploded into a billion pieces. I never thought that I would love someone so much.
“What lovely vows,” the officiant praised.
“Now, do you, Johnny Lawrence, take this man to be your wedded husband?”
I beamed, “I do.”
The officiant nodded. “And do you, Daniel Larusso, take this man to be your wedded husband?”
Daniel laughed. “Of course I do.”
“Let us now proceed.”
“It is now time for you to exchange rings. Your rings symbolise the eternal commitment that you make to each other and the never-ending circle of your love. May these rings always remind you of the commitment you are making here today.”
“Johnny, please repeat after me,” he starts.
“I, Johnny, give you, Daniel, this ring as a symbol of my love and commitment to you.”
I repeated what the officiant said, sliding the ring on Daniel's ring finger, and Daniel did the same to me.
The officiant smiled and said, “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and husband. You may now kiss.”
We grinned at each other, and as I leaned in, I felt a rush of anticipation and giddiness. His lips were soft, almost silken, and pillowy against my own. I could feel the soft tickle of his breath beneath my nose, fingers carding through his hair as we breathed each other in. For a moment, nothing else existed but the two of us, lost in the intensity of the moment.
“It is with great honour and delight that I present to you, Mr. and Mr. Lawrence.”
We were cut off by our friends and family cheering, and the guys behind me were loudly whistling. As we walked down the aisle, hand in hand, I couldn't help but think of how far I've come in life.
*****************
Daniel's POV
I can't believe I just got married to the love of my life. I'm still in shock. I honestly never thought this day would come.
“Care for a dance?” My husband—gosh, it feels weird saying that—asked, making me blush.
“I would love to.” I smiled.
I took his hand, and I was led to the dance floor. We arrived at the centre of the dance floor and started to dance, moving slowly and gracefully.
In the background, “I Don't Want To Miss A Thing” played.
I don't want to miss a smile.
And I don't want to miss a kiss.
And I just want to be with you.
Right here with you, just like this
And I just want to hold you close.
I feel your heart so close to mine.
And just stay here in this moment.
For all the rest of time
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
“You're beautiful, sunshine,” my husband cooed.
“And you're perfect,” I told him.
We continued dancing until our moms came up to us. Johnny went to dance with his mom, while I danced with mine. The song changed to “Dancing In The Dark.”
My mom beamed, “How are you feeling?”
I was extremely happy, to the point where describing it as such would be an understatement. It's hard to believe that this day is actually happening.
“Words can't describe how I feel, but I'm really happy,” I said.
“Your father would be so proud of you.”
I felt myself tearing up. “I wish he was here.”
“Me too, my dear, me too,” she said, wiping away my tears with her hands. She gave me a coy smile. “Anyway, I can't wait to meet my grandbabies.”
I laughed, my face as red as a tomato. “Mom!”
“What?” She grinned.
*****************
It was finally time to slice the three-tiered vanilla cake. Every level of the cake had horizontal stripes and tiny pearls dotted on it. The cake was adorned with white flowers such as roses and peonies, as well as green leaves placed on the sides of each tier. On top of the cake, there was a gold circular cake topper with an “L” on it and some more leaves.
I picked up the knife, and Johnny put his hand on top of mine. We carefully cut the cake, and our friends and family clapped. Johnny was grinning from ear to ear, and so was I.
After everyone received their portion of the cake, I laughed as I playfully scooped up some cream from my slice and gently tapped Johnny on the nose with it. Johnny chuckled and repeated the action with me, then quickly kissed me on the nose.
Suddenly, Bobby stood up from where he was sitting while making a clink sound with a fork and his glass, quieting down the audience.
“First off, I think Daniel and Johnny deserve another round of applause,” Bobby starts, everyone cheering again.
“I just wanted to say how proud I am of Johnny and Daniel,” he continued. “They've come so far. Daniel, you were the new teacher at our school; you're nice, cool, and hilarious, and I'm really happy that you're able to spend the rest of your life with the person you love, and Johnny, I've known you since you were a child. I've been there for you when you were crying over your failed relationships, claiming that you'd never have a shot at love, and now look at you laughing, smiling, and living your best life.”
“And lastly, I want to say you're welcome because if it weren't for me, you guys would not be here,” he smirked, bowing.
I burst out laughing at that, and Johnny smiled, playfully rolling his eyes.
*****************
I was seated on a stool next to the bar close to where the reception was taking place, casually chatting with the bartender, when Johnny suddenly appeared, sitting beside me and leaning his arm on the bar counter with a mischievous grin.
“Hey handsome,” he purred.
“Hey Johnny,” I answered.
“How'd you know my name?” He asked, and I was confused for a second before realising he was joking around.
“Just guessed,” I responded.
“Ahh” He nodded. “Anyway, you know you're really cute.”
"Yeah!” I giggled.
“So can I get your number?” He asked.
“No thanks,” I replied.
“What?” He fakely whined, “Why not?”
“I have a husband,” I told him.
“Really!?”
“Yep, I just got married today,” I chuckled, showing him my ring finger.
He took my hand, examining the ring. “Your husband is a seriously lucky dude.”
“I think we're both lucky,” I smiled.
"Oh, I forgot to ask,” he smirked. “What's your name?”
I smirked back. “My name is Daniel, Daniel Lawrence,” I said, pulling him in for a kiss.
———————————————————Author's Note!
Hello my darlings! I trust that this chapter of 4000 words compensates for the lack of one last week. I must admit, I enjoyed writing this chapter immensely and actually shed tears during the ceremony. I truly hope you all liked the chapter; in the next one, they will go on their honeymoon, followed by discussions about children and other matters. Once again, I truly hope you found this very long chapter enjoyable. I hope you have a fantastic remainder of your week!
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