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fellowshippers2005-02-02 11:51 am
ex-salwood.livejournal.com) wrote in fellowshippers2005-02-02 11:51 am
The Wedding - Part 2
Title: The Wedding 2/?
Author: Salogel42
Pairing: dom/lij
Rating: 15
Warning: None
Summary: It is the day of the wedding.
Archive: All chapters of The Wedding can be found here
Author’s note: This is the sequel to World Trip. There are characters from World Trip in this story and also flashbacks to certains events. World Trip can be found here
Disclaimer: Absolutely not true!
The Wedding
Chapter 2 – The Wedding Day
Elijah turned onto his back and opened his eyes; sunlight streamed through the bedroom window and for a second or two his mind was blank, and then it hit him.
I’m getting married today!
His stomach flipped, and he breathed in deeply. Then he grinned to himself as he threw off the quilt cover and made his way to the bathroom.
He stood under the shower for a long time, enjoying the heat of the water as it pummelled the back of his neck. This day has been something he had always dreamt of, but over the years he had gradually learnt to accept that it was a day that would never happen. Dominic, although he loved Elijah with a love that was profoundly deep, had never seen the need for marriage. Why bother? He was never going to leave Elijah, so there was little point. They were together for life, and he didn’t need a ceremony to confirm that.
But Elijah knew that his severe illness had changed Dominic. He was the same old Dom… of course he was. But he had lost his edginess, his self-doubt and his fears. Dominic had taken control of both their lives early that year… and in some ways it was as if their roles had been reversed. There had been some dark days back then, and it was Dominic who had pulled them through.
Elijah knew he would never know what Dominic went through during those weeks he thought he was going to die… that he was going to lose the thing that mattered to him the most. Dominic didn’t speak much about it, but it showed in the way he cared for Elijah afterwards. He had always lavished his affections on Elijah, but there was something more tender now, more defining. Elijah couldn’t put his finger on it. All he knew was that Dominic loved him more than ever, which was almost impossible to believe… and it ultimately led him to ask Elijah for his hand in marriage.
His Dominic, proposing! Elijah smiled as he turned off the water. Today was going to be the best day of his life, and it was all down to one man. He pushed his wet hair away from his face. One man! Christ… he couldn’t fucking wait to see Dominic again.
*
“How did you sleep?” Billy looked over at Dominic’s bed. Dumb question Billyboy!!
“I don’t think I did.” Dominic sat up and ran his fingers through his hair. “I don’t do sleeping apart from Elijah very well, Bills. Fuck knows how I got through those months when he was in hospital.”
Billy half nodded as he fought down the temptation to draw the sheets under his chin and drift back off to sleep. But he had too much to do, and already, five minutes into wakefulness his mind was beginning to whirr.
“Right!” Billy made Dominic jump. “Breakfast! Shall I order room service or would you prefer to go down to the restaurant?”
Dominic shook his head. “I don’t think I can eat, Bills.”
“Yeah? Well you’ve got that wrong. A hearty breakfast is what you need inside you, Dom. It’ll settle your nerves.”
Dominic smiled gently at his best friend. He knew Billy meant well. “I think coffee will be just fine, Billy.”
Billy snorted! “I’m here to look after you, Dom. You just leave it to me!”
*
Elijah sat on his bed, a towel wrapped firmly around his waist. He tied his bracelet on his wrist and then picked up his pounamu twist and slipped it over his head. Both he and Dominic wore their pendants daily, only ever taking them off to sleep. It was over a year ago that they gave them to each other, and Elijah could remember it clearly. That day was a mixture of fear and love. He had been dying… his body had been folding in upon itself, and giving up… but his love for Dominic had kept him there… long enough….
A gentle knock on the door brought Elijah’s attention back to the present. He didn’t often reflect on the days of his illness. To do that would stir up too many fears again. So a lid was put on those memories, but just now and then, on rare occasions, that lid slid open just a little, and the terror it released often left his heart racing.
A knock again. “Elijah?”
“Mom?”
“Mal’s here!”
“Ok…” Elijah smiled. Typical Mal… he was early as usual. “Be right there!”
He quickly slipped on his jogging bottoms and t-shirt, and made his way downstairs
*
Billy studied the restaurant menu as Dominic sipped his morning coffee. It was weird sitting here in this strange building with Billy sitting opposite him, and not Elijah.
And Dominic found himself constantly fighting down the urge to call Elijah on his mobile. He had even begun texting him a message earlier, and ended up pressing the delete button when he received the raised eyebrow look from Billy.
“Aw, fuck, Billy. I just miss him, that’s all.”
“No texting, no phone calls. No contact! Makes it more special when you finally meet him again.” Billy smiled his evil smile at Dominic.
“You’re a fucking sadist, Billy!”
Billy grinned knowingly! “Right, how about eggs and bacon?”
*
Elijah found Mal in the kitchen, sitting at the small table, cup of tea in hand. Debbie was busy rustling up pancakes for everyone.
“Elijah!” Mal stood up and shook Elijah’s hand. Despite their growing friendship over the past few weeks, Mal had always remained on the formal side.
“Mal…” Elijah grinned as he shook Mal’s hand enthusiastically. “You’re looking pretty dapper.”
Mal smoothed the lapels on his brand new suit. “Not bought anything new for a long time, Elijah. Never been any need to.”
Elijah nodded, then indicated that Mal take a seat again. They both sat at the table; Debbie poured Elijah a cup of coffee, and refreshed Mal’s cooling beverage.
“How was Dom?” Elijah asked. “Last night, I mean? Bet he was quiet.”
“He was… he misses you greatly.”
“I know…” Elijah’s voice trailed off.
“Anyway,” Mal broke the silence. “Just want you to know that I have everything in order.” He slipped his hand inside his jacket pocket and brought out an envelope.
Elijah smiled at him.
“Speech - the seating plan – your music play list – aeroplane tickets for tomorrow – your passports – euros – key to the shop.”
“That’s great Mal.” Elijah knew that he could have handled all their honeymoon details himself, but Mal had been so eager to help, and as the honeymoon destination had been Mal’s idea in the first place, Elijah let him go ahead with some of the preparations… Mal obviously knew what he was doing, having travelled the world himself.
Mal nodded, and as he sipped his tea he looked outside. “It’s going to be a beautiful day, Elijah…”
“I know…” Elijah leant back in his chair; he was amazed at just how relaxed he was feeling.
Debbie placed a hand on her son’s shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze as she leant over him placing a large plate of pancakes on the table.
The kitchen door opened… Elijah looked at this sister. “Just in time, Han! Breakfast is served.”
*
“How long does it take to get to Hamilton Gardens?” Dominic stopped buttoning his shirt and looked at his watch.
“Not long… but we have to be there early…” Billy picked up the ring box from his suitcase and flicked it open. He saw Dominic staring, and he winked at him. “Both rings present and correct,” he smiled. “Now, where’s the seating plan?”
Dominic pulled on the trousers of his new suit, bought especially for this day. He and Elijah had discussed their wedding attire, and at first contemplated wearing their Orient Express suits, which were bought when on holiday in Budapest, but those suits held some painful memories for Elijah, so in the end they decided to get brand new. How they managed to fit in a days shopping with everything else going on around them was truly amazing. Their house was practically unfurnished. Boxes were still waiting to be unpacked, and Elijah was up to his ears organising his new shop.
But Mal had saved the day. He researched and narrowed the shopping down to two stores, and after only a few ‘try ons’ both Elijah and Dominic were happy, Elijah more so, because Dominic usually took hours and hours on deciding when buying new clothes. He made his choice pretty quickly this time.
Miracles do happen, Elijah had thought to himself.
Then as they walked out of the shop, Dominic said… “Maybe the green is better, Lij. Shouldn’t we wear the same colour?”
Elijah had looked at him in gob-smacked surprise. “Blue is fucking good, Dom! Blue is fucking good…” and then Elijah had dragged Dominic to their car, and quickly drove him home before he completely changed his mind.
Dominic smiled at the memory; he always did have the knack of driving Elijah nuts when it came to shopping. Elijah always knew what he wanted… he would see it, and just buy it. Mind you… Dominic chuckled at the thought… that sort of mentality has led to a wardrobe full of stripy shirts.
“You got the seating plan, Dom?” Billy had emptied his suitcase searching for it.
“Nope…” Dominic tucked in his shirt, and then looked at himself in the mirror.
“Holy fuck pile!” Billy crawled around on the floor, and looked under the bed… “I had it on me yesterday!”
“Maybe Mal has it.”
“Yer what?” Billy looked up, his hair was dishevelled, his face confused.
“I don’t know… last night.” Dominic answered calmly. “We looked it over with Mal, remember? Did you pick it up afterwards?”
Billy scratched his head. “I don’t fucking know… shit… what if it got binned?”
Dominic looked at his friend, good old reliable Billy. All he wanted to do was make this day perfect for him and Elijah.
“Bills… it’s no big deal. There are only twenty people, I’m sure we can sort it out, and anyway doesn’t the restaurant at the gardens have a table plan?”
But Billy wasn’t listening to him.
“Billy… Billy…” Dominic took his friend’s hands in his. “I thought I was the one who was going to be all over the place this morning, not you.”
“Ah shit, Dom. I just want to get right, mate. I’m going to have to call Mal. I won’t relax until I do.”
“You won’t relax anyway.” Dominic smiled as he handed Billy his mobile. “Umm… maybe you could put Lij on after, you know, just for a couple of minutes?”
Billy finally grinned. He waved the phone at Dominic. “If I didn’t know you better, Dominic Monaghan, I’d say you planned this, just so you can speak to Elijah! I smell a conspiracy!”
Dominic laughed out loud, and Billy made the call.
*
Debbie answered the phone. “I’ll get him right now!”
Elijah and Mal were sitting in the garden, enjoying the last couple of hours peace and quiet before it was time to get ready and leave.
Elijah was beginning to feel the first fluttering of nerves as his stomach began turning mini cartwheels. He had been surprisingly calm throughout the morning. He had managed to eat a good breakfast, ironed his wedding shirt yet again, determined to get rid of the creases he had put in the last time he ironed it, but ended up with even more. Debbie finally took over that task and shooed her son out into the garden to join Mal while she did so.
Mal and Elijah talked about everything and nothing as the time edged slowly on. It was during the moments of silence, usually when Mal was relighting his pipe, that Elijah felt his heart skip a beat as he thought of what lay ahead.
His and Dominic’s life had been so hectic over the past four months, since they had permanently moved to New Zealand, it was a wonder they had any time to plan a wedding. But they had. Once Dominic had proposed things snowballed, and now the big day was here, to be followed by two luxurious weeks of holiday - a honeymoon in Italy. Rome and Florence… you couldn’t get more romantic than that.
It was going to be great to be able to just chill out, with no house to worry about, and no work to worry about. Just time for themselves again, just like it was when they toured the world last year.
Last year…
How was it possible for a time in your life to hold the best memories and the worst memories? Elijah stared at the bare garden beds, ready to be filled with life and colour. They looked barren right now, empty… but at the same time, full of promise.
Full of promise…
Elijah smiled to himself… his whole future was full of promise again. Dominic had brought him to this day… this day that will mark the beginning, a turning point in his life… his new life. He didn’t think he could be any happier.
“Mal?” Debbie walked into the garden. “Billy is on the phone. Something about the seating plan?”
Mal nodded and stood up. “Morning Billy,” he said as he spoke into the mouthpiece.
*
Billy sat on the bed as relief washed over him. “Nope, no problem, Mal, just glad that you have it. Dom? He’s fine… he’s getting ready now. Umm… how’s Elijah?”
Dominic stopped knotting his tie at the sound of Elijah’s name.
Billy paused for a while… looked up at Dominic and then said… “Hi, Lij!”
“Hey Billy! How’s Dom? Are you going to let me speak to him?”
“Well… not just now, Lij. He’s busy…”
“Not to even just say hello?”
“Nope… just doing my duty.” Billy suddenly felt like a tyrant as he saw the look of hope fade on Dominic’s face. “Remember what we agreed, Elijah? … No contact, it’ll make it more special… when…when… ”
Dominic sat down opposite Billy, straining to hear Elijah’s voice.
“Oh for fuck sake, Dom… stop looking at me like that!” Billy frowned at Dominic.
“HEY, DOM!”
Dominic beamed as he heard Elijah’s distant voice shouting at him!
“HEY, BABY!” he shouted back, deafening Billy.
“For fuck sake!” Billy rolled his eyes.
“DOM!”
“LIJ!”
“Ok… ok, I give up! Here ya go!” Billy handed Dominic the phone… “Just don’t be on there all day, we have to get moving!”
Dominic held the mobile in his hand, a bit stunned at first. He looked up at Billy who was on his feet.
“I’m your bloody best friend Dom, not a monster… now speak to Lij, before I change my mind. I’m going to get ready.”
Dominic quickly stood up and took Billy into a big bear hug. “Love you, Bills.”
“Yeah, yeah… love you too, mate.” Billy patted Dominic on the back, smiled at him and then left him alone.
“Lijah?” Dominic’s voice was soft as he sat down holding the phone to his ear.
“Dom?”
“I made Billy crack.” Dominic smiled at the sound of Elijah’s voice. “How are you doing, baby? I’ve missed you… I’ve missed you so much.”
“I’m, ok.” A pause. “It’s so good to hear your voice, Dom… it’s weird you not being here with me... it’s… it’s like part of me is missing…”
“I know… I know. Not long now, baby, not long…. Christ, Lij, I can’t wait to see you again.”
“Me too…”
A long pause…
“Love you, Dom.”
“Love you, too baby. Love you too.”
“Suppose we’d better go?”
“Yup.” Dominic didn’t want to end the call.
“Ok, then… love you.”
“Love you…” then Dominic heard the long tone as Elijah hung up. He knew Elijah would have to be the one to hang up first; he would have been incapable of doing so.
“See you soon, baby…” he spoke to himself. “See you soon…”
*
Elijah stood alone in his bedroom, totally naked, looking at his reflection in the full-length mirror.
Fourteen months had passed since he was stung by the jellyfish, yet his scars seemed as vivid today as they had been then. They would fade eventually, he had been told, but it would take years, then he would be left with silver ribbons not the purplish red scars that he was looking at now.
Elijah placed his hand over the small area of thigh devoid of scars where the jellyfish’s body had been. He could trace the way the tentacles had wrapped themselves around his leg and then his hand. It was like a flowing jigsaw puzzle, long ribbons of injured flesh… thank God he couldn’t recall the attack. He had no memory of it whatsoever. All he could remember was walking into the sea on that hot day, and then waking up in the hospital.
Push them away… not going to think about them now…
Elijah continued to look at his body, at his injury, and the way his overall body shape had changed over the past year. He was still eight pounds short of the weight he was before he fell ill, but his body was toned, more toned than it had ever been in his life. His unceasing exercising and determination to walk again, unaided, saw to that… and he actually liked what he saw in the mirror.
No longer did he turn his head away in disgust and revulsion at the sight of his scars. Dominic had helped him learn to accept them months ago, and therefore accept himself again.
“You’re beautiful, my Lijah… always so beautiful…”
At first those words were hard to believe… couldn’t Dominic see what had happened to him? But Dominic was true to his word. He saw past the hideous scarring, and saw only the man who bore them. The same man he had almost lost, the man he loved more than anything in the world.
Elijah blinked hard and breathed in deeply as he finally dragged his gaze away from the mirror and turned his attention to getting dressed. He glanced at the clock on the nightstand. In one hour he would be marrying Dominic.
*
Dominic was pacing.
Billy was busy speaking to the wedding organiser, and Dominic felt so nervous that he thought he was going to be sick.
Hamilton Gardens, a beautiful venue for a wedding, but right at that moment Dominic wasn’t seeing any of it.
The wedding itself was taking place in The Victorian Gardens, followed by the wedding reception in the Pavilion. Everything was just about ready… now all they needed was Elijah and Mal to arrive. But that would be a little while yet, for Billy knew he had two jobs left in hand. One was to direct all the guests to The Victorian Gardens, and the other… the other was to bloody well calm Dominic down!
“I told you you should have eaten something, Dom.” Billy looked at Dominic’s pale face. “Fuck it man, will you ever listen to me?”
They were both making their way to the Pavilion where they were to await the arrival of their guests.
Dominic didn’t answer, he had been too nervous to eat, and Billy knew that.
As they entered the building, Billy indicated that Dominic should sit down while he fetched him a glass of water.
Dominic took a seat on one of the wicker chairs, and then stood up again. He couldn’t keep still. He looked at his watch. Forty minutes to go. Why the fuck was he feeling so nervous? Because you are marrying Elijah… who means the fucking whole world to you…
“Here…” Billy tapped Dominic on the shoulder and handed him a glass of water.
When Dominic turned to face him, Billy saw tears in his eyes.
He smiled at Dominic, and couldn’t help but wonder what it must feel like to be that deeply in love. “Come on, mate…” he reassured him. “Drink up… you’re going to be just fine…”
And at the moment the first of the guests arrived. Sala pushed through the door, his face beaming, and his handshake strong. He took Dominic in his arms and hugged him, lifting him off the floor.
*
Elijah locked the front door of their house. His mother and sister had left half an hour ago, and he and Mal had one last cup of tea – on Mal’s insistence, before deciding it was definitely time to leave.
“Do I look ok?” Elijah asked for what was probably the million time that hour. He stood up straight, smoothed down the deep green three-quarter length jacket of his suit, and then ran his fingers through his long hair, only freshly trimmed the day before. His last haircut had been over a year and half ago! (He had become something of a hippy!) His hair swung back in place, settling on his shoulders.
“Dashing.” Mal said.
“Dashing!” Elijah laughed. “Now there’s an old fashioned word.”
“Shall we go, Elijah?” Mal opened the passenger door of the car for Elijah to climb in.
Elijah took in one long breath, held it for a moment, and then let it out slowly. “Yep, Mal,” he nodded. “Let’s go.”
*
“That’s good. Everyone is here!” Billy grinned at Dominic as he rubbed his hands together. “Can’t believe it’s gone as easily as this!” Then he remembered the speech he had yet to make and his smile faltered.
“Just Elijah and Mal, now.” Billy went to the window and looked outside. “Not here yet.”
Dominic could feel himself physically shaking. He wanted to take off his jacket, he wanted to sit down, he wanted this to be over, but then again he didn’t… he wanted… he wanted… fuck… all he wanted was Elijah.
“Great! Here’s the car!” Billy strode back to Dominic.
“Oh God, Billy!” Dominic looked at his best friend, and felt like bursting into tears.
“Hey…!” Billy took hold of Dominic’s hands. “It’s alright. Elijah’s here now, Dom… for you. He’s here for you.”
Dominic looked at Billy for what seemed to be a long time, and then he took him into his arms and embraced him tightly. “God, Billy… I love Elijah so much… so fucking much…” His voice dropped to a whisper. “Maybe even too much… you know?”
“Hey…” Billy felt a lump rise in his throat. “Don’t you start going mushy on me now, Dominic Monaghan, or you’ll start me off! Now come on.” Billy pulled back gently. “Let’s go meet Elijah.”
*
The traffic had been busy, as it always was on a Saturday afternoon. But they arrived at the wedding venue on time. Elijah’s nerves had now well and truly kicked in, and he had found it hard to sit still in the car on its slow journey to the appointed place.
Mal had spoken little, concentrating hard on his driving as he always did, so Elijah was left with his own thoughts, and they were just a jumble of everything. He was looking forward to seeing Danae again and Lynne, the wonderful nurse to whom he probably owed his life, due to her quick reactions when he finally succumbed to his illness last year. In fact he was looking forward to seeing everyone… but nobody more so than his Dom.
Dominic may have become stronger over this past year, but Elijah still knew his heart… his emotions and his over–whelming devotion to him, so he knew just how Dominic would be feeling at this moment in time. Some things about Dominic would never change.
And how was he feeling?
Scared – happy – nervous – terrified – ecstatic – in love… yes…so very much in fucking love.
This day was something Elijah had thought he would never see. It would never have been possible to marry in his own country, but here… here in New Zealand they were accepted, and fitted right in. And of course, the main reason this day was going ahead was Dominic’s total reversal of his thoughts on marriage. Dominic seemed to want it as much as Elijah, now, and Elijah never dreamt that would ever have been a possibility, and he often wondered what it was that changed Dominic’s mind.
Well… whatever the reason. They were here now, this eighteenth day of November 2006, about to be legally wed, and it was the most fucking fantastic feeling in all the world.
Mal applied the brake as the car pulled up in front of the Hamilton Garden’s Pavilion. He gave the key to the car-parking attendant, and then turned to Elijah.
“Ready, Elijah?”
Elijah smiled; his eyes shone as he replied… “More than ready, Mal. I’m more than ready.”
“Come on, then.”
They walked towards the door, and through the glass Elijah could see Dominic waiting for him and he felt his heart soar!
*
“Lijah…” Dominic’s voice was a whisper as he reached out for Elijah’s hand and pulled him into his arms. “Oh God, baby… I love you…”
Elijah closed his eyes as Dominic enveloped him.
Billy and Mal stood to one side, and couldn’t help smiling as the two men lost themselves in their reunion.
“Everyone here, then?” Mal eventually asked.
“Yup…” Billy nodded.
“That’s great…”
“You look so good, Lijah…” Dominic had pulled back a little from their embrace, and was looking into Elijah’s smiling face. “So fucking good…” his eyes fell on Elijah’s mouth, so perfect, so moist, so fucking inviting… and then without hesitation he cupped Elijah’s chin and kissed him, feeling Elijah’s lips give way under his own, and for a few seconds they became completely lost in each other, oblivious to everything and everyone around them.
Billy raised his eyebrows and grinned at Mal as they both waited patiently for Dominic and Elijah to remember that they had a wedding to attend.
The Celebrant of Civil Ceremonies arrived, and stood next to the waiting best men. Eventually Billy coughed very loudly, trying to attract Dominic and Elijah’s attention.
They broke their kiss, reluctantly. Dominic rested his forehead against Elijah’s and took both of his hands in his own. “Marry me, Lijah?” he whispered.
Elijah could barely reply as his throat locked up… “Yes…” he whispered back… “yes…”
Dominic smiled and then kissed him again, before they finally turned towards the waiting trio.
“Ok, are we ready?” The celebrant asked as she looked from Dominic and Elijah to Mal and Billy.
“We’re ready!” Dominic nodded as he raised Elijah’s hand and kissed it.
“Good…” The celebrant turned to the door. “Follow me…”
*
It was a short walk from the Pavilion to the gardens where they were to be married, and when they arrived they could see all their guests sitting down in the warm sunshine. It was a very small wedding; both of them wanted it that way, just their closest friends and family.
The celebrant took her place on the platform underneath a small open marquee, built for the sole purpose of weddings. Dominic, Elijah, Billy and Mal, waited for the instruction to approach the marquee.
The celebrant smiled at the guests who were looking at her expectantly.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” she said. Please welcome your grooms.
Everyone rose to their feet and clapped as Dominic and Elijah walked hand in hand, the short distance to take their place in front of the celebrant; Mal and Billy stood, one either side of them.
The celebrant looked at Dominic and Elijah and then motioned that their guests re-take their seats.
“Good afternoon…” she began. “We are here today to witness and celebrate a marriage, a union between two people. For Dominic and Elijah this ceremony is a public expression of something already real, and they wanted to share this day with you, their family and friends.
Before we proceed with the legal part of the ceremony, both Dominic and Elijah have prepared their own personal vows, and would like to give them to each other with you all as their witnesses.”
The celebrant looked at Dominic. “Ok, Dominic,” she said. “Please begin…”
Dominic nodded, and took in a deep breath in order to steady his pulse, which was racing. He turned to face Elijah, his beautiful Elijah, who was standing before him, smiling at him, and for a second, Dominic felt the overwhelming urge to just fall to his knees and thank God that Elijah was allowed to live, to see this day.
“Dom…?” Elijah’s smile broadened as he held Dominic’s hand a little tighter. “Love you…” he silently mouthed the words.
Dominic swallowed hard, he knew what he wanted to say, he had memorized it all, but he suddenly seemed to have lost the ability to speak.
“Dominic?” The celebrant prompted again, but Dominic didn’t hear her. He couldn't see her, he couldn't see anyone except the man he loved standing right in front of him, holding his hand, squeezing it ever so slightly in reassurance. It seemed like they were the only two standing there, in the warm New Zealand sun.
“Dominic?” The celebrant spoke again, and looked up and smiled at all the expectant guests.
“Dommie,” Elijah whispered as he took Dominic’s other hand. “You ok?”
Dominic nodded as he fought to keep the emotional overload he felt brewing at bay. Then finally he smiled at Elijah, and lifted one of his hands up to kiss it. He looked at the celebrant, and took in one more big deep breath, before turning his eyes back to Elijah. Then he began to speak.
"You, Elijah, are the love of my life."
Dominic then paused momentarily; there was a distinct wobble in his voice that he had no control over.
"You are my reason for living, and I pledge my undying dedication to you for the rest of my life. I love you with all of my heart and soul. You are loving, and thoughtful," he paused again, "very thoughtful, caring and beautiful in my eyes, and your love always makes me feel like the happiest and luckiest man alive."
Dominic paused again, and closed his eyes for a second, before continuing. He squeezed Elijah's hands tightly desperate to get his feelings and message across to him.
"I know that as long as you are next to me, I will be willing to give my life to you, and I am proud," his voice finally cracked, and he stopped once more in order to regain control.
He looked down at his feet, as memories flashed before his eyes of Elijah dying, and how he thought he was going to spend the rest of his life alone. He took a large shuddering breath and looked up.
"I am proud, Elijah," he continued. "Proud to have you as my life's partner and I promise that I will always be by your side, through good and bad times. I love you."
Time seemed to stand still as they looked at one another before the celebrant broke the silence.
“Elijah…?” she said.
Elijah glanced at her and nodded, and then he looked down at his hands being held by Dominic’s. They had been through so much together over the past year, so much pain and anguish which would have destroyed most relationships. But something had held them together, something that was undeniably unique.
Dominic was unique.
“Dom…” Elijah began, slowly. “You know how much I love you, and I don’t think I could say any more about my love for you than what was said when you stood by me on Mount Victoria, just over a year ago.
Dominic nodded, his eyes never leaving Elijah’s face.
“But this is something I do know,” Elijah continued… “and that is, my love for you has grown stronger, and that you have become part of me, Dom. A part of me … right here.” Elijah pressed his hand hard against his chest.
“I couldn’t imagine my life without you, and I never thought I would see this day…. not ever.” Elijah re-took Dominic’s hands again.
“You know…” Elijah voice began to break. “… only you know how much this day means to me, Dom. To have you standing here beside me, taking my hand… this… this day… this special day….”
The guests were utterly silent; the only noise that could be heard was the bird song from the trees. No one moved, and no one spoke as they watched the two men in front of them.
Elijah knew he was beginning to cry, and made no attempt to stop himself from doing so… he just held Dominic’s hand tighter, running his thumbs over Dominic’s fingers. He only had a few more words to say, and tears tracked down his face as he said them.
“For as long as I live, Dom I will love you and cherish you, and give you all that I have. I never want to be apart from you, Dommie… not ever. My life is yours.”
Silence…
Dominic reached up and wiped Elijah’s tears away, ignoring his own. Then they heard the celebrant begin to speak again. They turned to face her, letting one hand each drop loosely by their sides, with the others still grasped tightly.
"Guests and friends of Dominic and Elijah, just a few brief words of love's responsibility before we move on to the legal side of things, and the giving and receiving of rings."
"Dominic, Elijah, all of us here today know that you are deeply in love. But beyond the warmth and glow, the excitement and romance, what is love, really? Real love is caring as much about the welfare and happiness of your partner as about your own.
Real love is not possessive or jealous; it is liberating; it sets you free to become your best self. Real love is not total absorption in each other; it is looking outward in the same direction together. Love makes burdens lighter, because you divide them. It makes joys more intense because you share them. It makes you stronger, so that you can reach out and become involved with life in ways you dared not risk alone."
She smiled at Dominic and Elijah as she opened a leather folder. “Ok… this is the legal bit.”
They both smiled back at her.
“I want you both to repeat after me… Elijah, you first.”
Elijah nodded, and shifted his feet a little… he listened to the celebrant and then looked at Dominic as he repeated her words.
“I call upon these people here present to witness that I, Elijah Jordan Wood, take you Dominic Bernard Patrick Luke Monaghan, as my legally married partner.”
Dominic smiled at him.
“That was lovely, Elijah.” The celebrant turned her attention to Dominic. “Now, Dominic, repeat after me…”
Dominic nodded, and repeated the words…
“I call upon these people here present to witness that I, Dominic Bernard Patrick Luke Monaghan, take you, Elijah Jordan Wood, as my legally married partner.”
“Good…” The celebrant looked over at Billy. “The rings?” She asked as she offered him a small silver tray to place them on. Billy fumbled in his jacket pocket briefly before producing two platinum bands. He looked at them glinting in the sunshine before placing them on the tray.
The celebrant held the tray and looked out towards the guests again.
“These rings are the symbol of the vows taken, a circle of wholeness; the perfect form. These rings mark the beginning of a new journey together for Dominic and Elijah, filled with wonder, surprises, tears, laughter, celebrations, grief and joy. May these rings glow in reflection of the warmth and the life which flow through the wearers today.”
She looked at Elijah and indicated that he should pick up Dominic's ring. Elijah picked up the band and looked at it. It was the first time he had seen their wedding rings… Dominic had wanted them to be a surprise for the big day, and they were!
He stared at the ring looking at the shiny almost white metal, inlaid with pewter strands from his bracelet of hope. He looked from the ring to Dominic, and could hardly see him through a blur of tears, as it suddenly dawned on him that Dominic had planned this day… to marry him… probably from the very first day he had opened his eyes in hospital, a year ago.
Dominic smiled at Elijah; he could see how overwhelmed Elijah was by his little surprise. He offered his hand to Elijah, and Elijah took it with trembling fingers. He held the ring ready to slip it onto Dominic’s finger.
Elijah had memorized the words for this moment, but his mind had suddenly gone completely blank… He looked from the ring to Dominic as he tried to recall them.
Then celebrant whispered them to him, and Elijah repeated them.
“I give you this ring,” he said… “As I give you my love and faithfulness.” The ring slid home
Dominic looked at the ring on his finger before turning to pick up Elijah's ring. As he placed it on Elijah's finger he looked at the celebrant and said, “I would like to say something different, if that is possible?”
The celebrant nodded her head, and Elijah looked at Dominic questioningly.
Dominic coughed and cleared his throat; he wanted to get this right. He looked at the platinum ring half way on Elijah's scarred finger. He swallowed hard and then looked up from the ring into Elijah’s eyes. He saw that they were shining.
“With this ring, I give you my promise that from this day forward you shall never walk alone. May my heart be your shelter and my arms be your home. May you feel deeply loved, for indeed you are. With this ring, I give you my heart, Elijah. I have no greater gift to give."
Dominic pushed the ring all the way on to Elijah's finger, and then breathed again.
Elijah beamed at him.
They both turned to look at the celebrant… it was nearly over.
The celebrant looked at the guests once more. “Now we shall take a few minutes to sign the wedding documents.”
Dominic and Elijah walked over to a small table. All the documents had been prepared over a week ago, leaving only their signatures on the marriage licence to finalise everything.
Billy and Mal acted as official witnesses, and once the signings were over, and their unity candle lit, they returned to the platform in front of the celebrant again.
The celebrant addressed everyone.
“Too often we forget the importance of two people in love, being not only joined by their love, but also united by their friendship. No human relationship gives possession of the other - each person is absolutely different. Continue to see the greatness in one another and to tell each other when it is seen. And remember, you accept the sunshine and warmth; you must also accept thunder and lightning.
You have already come so far, having known each other for seven years. Many of the possible trials and tribulation that can affect a relationship, you have already experienced… if not more. But this is not to say that now is a time of complacency. Take what you have learned and continue to prosper and grow. There are no longer any secrets.”
The celebrant paused before bringing the wedding ceremony to its conclusion.
“On behalf of us all gathered here, I extend to you our love and support. May your relationship flourish and grow throughout a long and happy life together. By the powers vested in me as a civil marriage celebrant, I now pronounce you legally married.” She leant forward towards them. "Let me be the first to congratulate you!”
The guests stood up and began clapping, as Dominic and Elijah turned towards each other and kissed, a long sensual kiss…
When they finally pulled apart Elijah looked into Dominic’s eyes. “We did it…” he couldn’t help but giggle… “We really did it…”
Dominic smiled at Elijah; the joy in his face was so evident.
“Yes, we did, baby…” he said. “We did.” He slipped his arm around Elijah’s shoulder and just before they turned to greet their guests he put his mouth to Elijah’s ear and whispered.
“Love you, Lijah… can’t wait to make love to you…”
Then they were enveloped in a sea of guests.
tbc
Author: Salogel42
Pairing: dom/lij
Rating: 15
Warning: None
Summary: It is the day of the wedding.
Archive: All chapters of The Wedding can be found here
Author’s note: This is the sequel to World Trip. There are characters from World Trip in this story and also flashbacks to certains events. World Trip can be found here
Disclaimer: Absolutely not true!
The Wedding
Chapter 2 – The Wedding Day
Elijah turned onto his back and opened his eyes; sunlight streamed through the bedroom window and for a second or two his mind was blank, and then it hit him.
I’m getting married today!
His stomach flipped, and he breathed in deeply. Then he grinned to himself as he threw off the quilt cover and made his way to the bathroom.
He stood under the shower for a long time, enjoying the heat of the water as it pummelled the back of his neck. This day has been something he had always dreamt of, but over the years he had gradually learnt to accept that it was a day that would never happen. Dominic, although he loved Elijah with a love that was profoundly deep, had never seen the need for marriage. Why bother? He was never going to leave Elijah, so there was little point. They were together for life, and he didn’t need a ceremony to confirm that.
But Elijah knew that his severe illness had changed Dominic. He was the same old Dom… of course he was. But he had lost his edginess, his self-doubt and his fears. Dominic had taken control of both their lives early that year… and in some ways it was as if their roles had been reversed. There had been some dark days back then, and it was Dominic who had pulled them through.
Elijah knew he would never know what Dominic went through during those weeks he thought he was going to die… that he was going to lose the thing that mattered to him the most. Dominic didn’t speak much about it, but it showed in the way he cared for Elijah afterwards. He had always lavished his affections on Elijah, but there was something more tender now, more defining. Elijah couldn’t put his finger on it. All he knew was that Dominic loved him more than ever, which was almost impossible to believe… and it ultimately led him to ask Elijah for his hand in marriage.
His Dominic, proposing! Elijah smiled as he turned off the water. Today was going to be the best day of his life, and it was all down to one man. He pushed his wet hair away from his face. One man! Christ… he couldn’t fucking wait to see Dominic again.
*
“How did you sleep?” Billy looked over at Dominic’s bed. Dumb question Billyboy!!
“I don’t think I did.” Dominic sat up and ran his fingers through his hair. “I don’t do sleeping apart from Elijah very well, Bills. Fuck knows how I got through those months when he was in hospital.”
Billy half nodded as he fought down the temptation to draw the sheets under his chin and drift back off to sleep. But he had too much to do, and already, five minutes into wakefulness his mind was beginning to whirr.
“Right!” Billy made Dominic jump. “Breakfast! Shall I order room service or would you prefer to go down to the restaurant?”
Dominic shook his head. “I don’t think I can eat, Bills.”
“Yeah? Well you’ve got that wrong. A hearty breakfast is what you need inside you, Dom. It’ll settle your nerves.”
Dominic smiled gently at his best friend. He knew Billy meant well. “I think coffee will be just fine, Billy.”
Billy snorted! “I’m here to look after you, Dom. You just leave it to me!”
*
Elijah sat on his bed, a towel wrapped firmly around his waist. He tied his bracelet on his wrist and then picked up his pounamu twist and slipped it over his head. Both he and Dominic wore their pendants daily, only ever taking them off to sleep. It was over a year ago that they gave them to each other, and Elijah could remember it clearly. That day was a mixture of fear and love. He had been dying… his body had been folding in upon itself, and giving up… but his love for Dominic had kept him there… long enough….
A gentle knock on the door brought Elijah’s attention back to the present. He didn’t often reflect on the days of his illness. To do that would stir up too many fears again. So a lid was put on those memories, but just now and then, on rare occasions, that lid slid open just a little, and the terror it released often left his heart racing.
A knock again. “Elijah?”
“Mom?”
“Mal’s here!”
“Ok…” Elijah smiled. Typical Mal… he was early as usual. “Be right there!”
He quickly slipped on his jogging bottoms and t-shirt, and made his way downstairs
*
Billy studied the restaurant menu as Dominic sipped his morning coffee. It was weird sitting here in this strange building with Billy sitting opposite him, and not Elijah.
And Dominic found himself constantly fighting down the urge to call Elijah on his mobile. He had even begun texting him a message earlier, and ended up pressing the delete button when he received the raised eyebrow look from Billy.
“Aw, fuck, Billy. I just miss him, that’s all.”
“No texting, no phone calls. No contact! Makes it more special when you finally meet him again.” Billy smiled his evil smile at Dominic.
“You’re a fucking sadist, Billy!”
Billy grinned knowingly! “Right, how about eggs and bacon?”
*
Elijah found Mal in the kitchen, sitting at the small table, cup of tea in hand. Debbie was busy rustling up pancakes for everyone.
“Elijah!” Mal stood up and shook Elijah’s hand. Despite their growing friendship over the past few weeks, Mal had always remained on the formal side.
“Mal…” Elijah grinned as he shook Mal’s hand enthusiastically. “You’re looking pretty dapper.”
Mal smoothed the lapels on his brand new suit. “Not bought anything new for a long time, Elijah. Never been any need to.”
Elijah nodded, then indicated that Mal take a seat again. They both sat at the table; Debbie poured Elijah a cup of coffee, and refreshed Mal’s cooling beverage.
“How was Dom?” Elijah asked. “Last night, I mean? Bet he was quiet.”
“He was… he misses you greatly.”
“I know…” Elijah’s voice trailed off.
“Anyway,” Mal broke the silence. “Just want you to know that I have everything in order.” He slipped his hand inside his jacket pocket and brought out an envelope.
Elijah smiled at him.
“Speech - the seating plan – your music play list – aeroplane tickets for tomorrow – your passports – euros – key to the shop.”
“That’s great Mal.” Elijah knew that he could have handled all their honeymoon details himself, but Mal had been so eager to help, and as the honeymoon destination had been Mal’s idea in the first place, Elijah let him go ahead with some of the preparations… Mal obviously knew what he was doing, having travelled the world himself.
Mal nodded, and as he sipped his tea he looked outside. “It’s going to be a beautiful day, Elijah…”
“I know…” Elijah leant back in his chair; he was amazed at just how relaxed he was feeling.
Debbie placed a hand on her son’s shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze as she leant over him placing a large plate of pancakes on the table.
The kitchen door opened… Elijah looked at this sister. “Just in time, Han! Breakfast is served.”
*
“How long does it take to get to Hamilton Gardens?” Dominic stopped buttoning his shirt and looked at his watch.
“Not long… but we have to be there early…” Billy picked up the ring box from his suitcase and flicked it open. He saw Dominic staring, and he winked at him. “Both rings present and correct,” he smiled. “Now, where’s the seating plan?”
Dominic pulled on the trousers of his new suit, bought especially for this day. He and Elijah had discussed their wedding attire, and at first contemplated wearing their Orient Express suits, which were bought when on holiday in Budapest, but those suits held some painful memories for Elijah, so in the end they decided to get brand new. How they managed to fit in a days shopping with everything else going on around them was truly amazing. Their house was practically unfurnished. Boxes were still waiting to be unpacked, and Elijah was up to his ears organising his new shop.
But Mal had saved the day. He researched and narrowed the shopping down to two stores, and after only a few ‘try ons’ both Elijah and Dominic were happy, Elijah more so, because Dominic usually took hours and hours on deciding when buying new clothes. He made his choice pretty quickly this time.
Miracles do happen, Elijah had thought to himself.
Then as they walked out of the shop, Dominic said… “Maybe the green is better, Lij. Shouldn’t we wear the same colour?”
Elijah had looked at him in gob-smacked surprise. “Blue is fucking good, Dom! Blue is fucking good…” and then Elijah had dragged Dominic to their car, and quickly drove him home before he completely changed his mind.
Dominic smiled at the memory; he always did have the knack of driving Elijah nuts when it came to shopping. Elijah always knew what he wanted… he would see it, and just buy it. Mind you… Dominic chuckled at the thought… that sort of mentality has led to a wardrobe full of stripy shirts.
“You got the seating plan, Dom?” Billy had emptied his suitcase searching for it.
“Nope…” Dominic tucked in his shirt, and then looked at himself in the mirror.
“Holy fuck pile!” Billy crawled around on the floor, and looked under the bed… “I had it on me yesterday!”
“Maybe Mal has it.”
“Yer what?” Billy looked up, his hair was dishevelled, his face confused.
“I don’t know… last night.” Dominic answered calmly. “We looked it over with Mal, remember? Did you pick it up afterwards?”
Billy scratched his head. “I don’t fucking know… shit… what if it got binned?”
Dominic looked at his friend, good old reliable Billy. All he wanted to do was make this day perfect for him and Elijah.
“Bills… it’s no big deal. There are only twenty people, I’m sure we can sort it out, and anyway doesn’t the restaurant at the gardens have a table plan?”
But Billy wasn’t listening to him.
“Billy… Billy…” Dominic took his friend’s hands in his. “I thought I was the one who was going to be all over the place this morning, not you.”
“Ah shit, Dom. I just want to get right, mate. I’m going to have to call Mal. I won’t relax until I do.”
“You won’t relax anyway.” Dominic smiled as he handed Billy his mobile. “Umm… maybe you could put Lij on after, you know, just for a couple of minutes?”
Billy finally grinned. He waved the phone at Dominic. “If I didn’t know you better, Dominic Monaghan, I’d say you planned this, just so you can speak to Elijah! I smell a conspiracy!”
Dominic laughed out loud, and Billy made the call.
*
Debbie answered the phone. “I’ll get him right now!”
Elijah and Mal were sitting in the garden, enjoying the last couple of hours peace and quiet before it was time to get ready and leave.
Elijah was beginning to feel the first fluttering of nerves as his stomach began turning mini cartwheels. He had been surprisingly calm throughout the morning. He had managed to eat a good breakfast, ironed his wedding shirt yet again, determined to get rid of the creases he had put in the last time he ironed it, but ended up with even more. Debbie finally took over that task and shooed her son out into the garden to join Mal while she did so.
Mal and Elijah talked about everything and nothing as the time edged slowly on. It was during the moments of silence, usually when Mal was relighting his pipe, that Elijah felt his heart skip a beat as he thought of what lay ahead.
His and Dominic’s life had been so hectic over the past four months, since they had permanently moved to New Zealand, it was a wonder they had any time to plan a wedding. But they had. Once Dominic had proposed things snowballed, and now the big day was here, to be followed by two luxurious weeks of holiday - a honeymoon in Italy. Rome and Florence… you couldn’t get more romantic than that.
It was going to be great to be able to just chill out, with no house to worry about, and no work to worry about. Just time for themselves again, just like it was when they toured the world last year.
Last year…
How was it possible for a time in your life to hold the best memories and the worst memories? Elijah stared at the bare garden beds, ready to be filled with life and colour. They looked barren right now, empty… but at the same time, full of promise.
Full of promise…
Elijah smiled to himself… his whole future was full of promise again. Dominic had brought him to this day… this day that will mark the beginning, a turning point in his life… his new life. He didn’t think he could be any happier.
“Mal?” Debbie walked into the garden. “Billy is on the phone. Something about the seating plan?”
Mal nodded and stood up. “Morning Billy,” he said as he spoke into the mouthpiece.
*
Billy sat on the bed as relief washed over him. “Nope, no problem, Mal, just glad that you have it. Dom? He’s fine… he’s getting ready now. Umm… how’s Elijah?”
Dominic stopped knotting his tie at the sound of Elijah’s name.
Billy paused for a while… looked up at Dominic and then said… “Hi, Lij!”
“Hey Billy! How’s Dom? Are you going to let me speak to him?”
“Well… not just now, Lij. He’s busy…”
“Not to even just say hello?”
“Nope… just doing my duty.” Billy suddenly felt like a tyrant as he saw the look of hope fade on Dominic’s face. “Remember what we agreed, Elijah? … No contact, it’ll make it more special… when…when… ”
Dominic sat down opposite Billy, straining to hear Elijah’s voice.
“Oh for fuck sake, Dom… stop looking at me like that!” Billy frowned at Dominic.
“HEY, DOM!”
Dominic beamed as he heard Elijah’s distant voice shouting at him!
“HEY, BABY!” he shouted back, deafening Billy.
“For fuck sake!” Billy rolled his eyes.
“DOM!”
“LIJ!”
“Ok… ok, I give up! Here ya go!” Billy handed Dominic the phone… “Just don’t be on there all day, we have to get moving!”
Dominic held the mobile in his hand, a bit stunned at first. He looked up at Billy who was on his feet.
“I’m your bloody best friend Dom, not a monster… now speak to Lij, before I change my mind. I’m going to get ready.”
Dominic quickly stood up and took Billy into a big bear hug. “Love you, Bills.”
“Yeah, yeah… love you too, mate.” Billy patted Dominic on the back, smiled at him and then left him alone.
“Lijah?” Dominic’s voice was soft as he sat down holding the phone to his ear.
“Dom?”
“I made Billy crack.” Dominic smiled at the sound of Elijah’s voice. “How are you doing, baby? I’ve missed you… I’ve missed you so much.”
“I’m, ok.” A pause. “It’s so good to hear your voice, Dom… it’s weird you not being here with me... it’s… it’s like part of me is missing…”
“I know… I know. Not long now, baby, not long…. Christ, Lij, I can’t wait to see you again.”
“Me too…”
A long pause…
“Love you, Dom.”
“Love you, too baby. Love you too.”
“Suppose we’d better go?”
“Yup.” Dominic didn’t want to end the call.
“Ok, then… love you.”
“Love you…” then Dominic heard the long tone as Elijah hung up. He knew Elijah would have to be the one to hang up first; he would have been incapable of doing so.
“See you soon, baby…” he spoke to himself. “See you soon…”
*
Elijah stood alone in his bedroom, totally naked, looking at his reflection in the full-length mirror.
Fourteen months had passed since he was stung by the jellyfish, yet his scars seemed as vivid today as they had been then. They would fade eventually, he had been told, but it would take years, then he would be left with silver ribbons not the purplish red scars that he was looking at now.
Elijah placed his hand over the small area of thigh devoid of scars where the jellyfish’s body had been. He could trace the way the tentacles had wrapped themselves around his leg and then his hand. It was like a flowing jigsaw puzzle, long ribbons of injured flesh… thank God he couldn’t recall the attack. He had no memory of it whatsoever. All he could remember was walking into the sea on that hot day, and then waking up in the hospital.
Push them away… not going to think about them now…
Elijah continued to look at his body, at his injury, and the way his overall body shape had changed over the past year. He was still eight pounds short of the weight he was before he fell ill, but his body was toned, more toned than it had ever been in his life. His unceasing exercising and determination to walk again, unaided, saw to that… and he actually liked what he saw in the mirror.
No longer did he turn his head away in disgust and revulsion at the sight of his scars. Dominic had helped him learn to accept them months ago, and therefore accept himself again.
“You’re beautiful, my Lijah… always so beautiful…”
At first those words were hard to believe… couldn’t Dominic see what had happened to him? But Dominic was true to his word. He saw past the hideous scarring, and saw only the man who bore them. The same man he had almost lost, the man he loved more than anything in the world.
Elijah blinked hard and breathed in deeply as he finally dragged his gaze away from the mirror and turned his attention to getting dressed. He glanced at the clock on the nightstand. In one hour he would be marrying Dominic.
*
Dominic was pacing.
Billy was busy speaking to the wedding organiser, and Dominic felt so nervous that he thought he was going to be sick.
Hamilton Gardens, a beautiful venue for a wedding, but right at that moment Dominic wasn’t seeing any of it.
The wedding itself was taking place in The Victorian Gardens, followed by the wedding reception in the Pavilion. Everything was just about ready… now all they needed was Elijah and Mal to arrive. But that would be a little while yet, for Billy knew he had two jobs left in hand. One was to direct all the guests to The Victorian Gardens, and the other… the other was to bloody well calm Dominic down!
“I told you you should have eaten something, Dom.” Billy looked at Dominic’s pale face. “Fuck it man, will you ever listen to me?”
They were both making their way to the Pavilion where they were to await the arrival of their guests.
Dominic didn’t answer, he had been too nervous to eat, and Billy knew that.
As they entered the building, Billy indicated that Dominic should sit down while he fetched him a glass of water.
Dominic took a seat on one of the wicker chairs, and then stood up again. He couldn’t keep still. He looked at his watch. Forty minutes to go. Why the fuck was he feeling so nervous? Because you are marrying Elijah… who means the fucking whole world to you…
“Here…” Billy tapped Dominic on the shoulder and handed him a glass of water.
When Dominic turned to face him, Billy saw tears in his eyes.
He smiled at Dominic, and couldn’t help but wonder what it must feel like to be that deeply in love. “Come on, mate…” he reassured him. “Drink up… you’re going to be just fine…”
And at the moment the first of the guests arrived. Sala pushed through the door, his face beaming, and his handshake strong. He took Dominic in his arms and hugged him, lifting him off the floor.
*
Elijah locked the front door of their house. His mother and sister had left half an hour ago, and he and Mal had one last cup of tea – on Mal’s insistence, before deciding it was definitely time to leave.
“Do I look ok?” Elijah asked for what was probably the million time that hour. He stood up straight, smoothed down the deep green three-quarter length jacket of his suit, and then ran his fingers through his long hair, only freshly trimmed the day before. His last haircut had been over a year and half ago! (He had become something of a hippy!) His hair swung back in place, settling on his shoulders.
“Dashing.” Mal said.
“Dashing!” Elijah laughed. “Now there’s an old fashioned word.”
“Shall we go, Elijah?” Mal opened the passenger door of the car for Elijah to climb in.
Elijah took in one long breath, held it for a moment, and then let it out slowly. “Yep, Mal,” he nodded. “Let’s go.”
*
“That’s good. Everyone is here!” Billy grinned at Dominic as he rubbed his hands together. “Can’t believe it’s gone as easily as this!” Then he remembered the speech he had yet to make and his smile faltered.
“Just Elijah and Mal, now.” Billy went to the window and looked outside. “Not here yet.”
Dominic could feel himself physically shaking. He wanted to take off his jacket, he wanted to sit down, he wanted this to be over, but then again he didn’t… he wanted… he wanted… fuck… all he wanted was Elijah.
“Great! Here’s the car!” Billy strode back to Dominic.
“Oh God, Billy!” Dominic looked at his best friend, and felt like bursting into tears.
“Hey…!” Billy took hold of Dominic’s hands. “It’s alright. Elijah’s here now, Dom… for you. He’s here for you.”
Dominic looked at Billy for what seemed to be a long time, and then he took him into his arms and embraced him tightly. “God, Billy… I love Elijah so much… so fucking much…” His voice dropped to a whisper. “Maybe even too much… you know?”
“Hey…” Billy felt a lump rise in his throat. “Don’t you start going mushy on me now, Dominic Monaghan, or you’ll start me off! Now come on.” Billy pulled back gently. “Let’s go meet Elijah.”
*
The traffic had been busy, as it always was on a Saturday afternoon. But they arrived at the wedding venue on time. Elijah’s nerves had now well and truly kicked in, and he had found it hard to sit still in the car on its slow journey to the appointed place.
Mal had spoken little, concentrating hard on his driving as he always did, so Elijah was left with his own thoughts, and they were just a jumble of everything. He was looking forward to seeing Danae again and Lynne, the wonderful nurse to whom he probably owed his life, due to her quick reactions when he finally succumbed to his illness last year. In fact he was looking forward to seeing everyone… but nobody more so than his Dom.
Dominic may have become stronger over this past year, but Elijah still knew his heart… his emotions and his over–whelming devotion to him, so he knew just how Dominic would be feeling at this moment in time. Some things about Dominic would never change.
And how was he feeling?
Scared – happy – nervous – terrified – ecstatic – in love… yes…so very much in fucking love.
This day was something Elijah had thought he would never see. It would never have been possible to marry in his own country, but here… here in New Zealand they were accepted, and fitted right in. And of course, the main reason this day was going ahead was Dominic’s total reversal of his thoughts on marriage. Dominic seemed to want it as much as Elijah, now, and Elijah never dreamt that would ever have been a possibility, and he often wondered what it was that changed Dominic’s mind.
Well… whatever the reason. They were here now, this eighteenth day of November 2006, about to be legally wed, and it was the most fucking fantastic feeling in all the world.
Mal applied the brake as the car pulled up in front of the Hamilton Garden’s Pavilion. He gave the key to the car-parking attendant, and then turned to Elijah.
“Ready, Elijah?”
Elijah smiled; his eyes shone as he replied… “More than ready, Mal. I’m more than ready.”
“Come on, then.”
They walked towards the door, and through the glass Elijah could see Dominic waiting for him and he felt his heart soar!
*
“Lijah…” Dominic’s voice was a whisper as he reached out for Elijah’s hand and pulled him into his arms. “Oh God, baby… I love you…”
Elijah closed his eyes as Dominic enveloped him.
Billy and Mal stood to one side, and couldn’t help smiling as the two men lost themselves in their reunion.
“Everyone here, then?” Mal eventually asked.
“Yup…” Billy nodded.
“That’s great…”
“You look so good, Lijah…” Dominic had pulled back a little from their embrace, and was looking into Elijah’s smiling face. “So fucking good…” his eyes fell on Elijah’s mouth, so perfect, so moist, so fucking inviting… and then without hesitation he cupped Elijah’s chin and kissed him, feeling Elijah’s lips give way under his own, and for a few seconds they became completely lost in each other, oblivious to everything and everyone around them.
Billy raised his eyebrows and grinned at Mal as they both waited patiently for Dominic and Elijah to remember that they had a wedding to attend.
The Celebrant of Civil Ceremonies arrived, and stood next to the waiting best men. Eventually Billy coughed very loudly, trying to attract Dominic and Elijah’s attention.
They broke their kiss, reluctantly. Dominic rested his forehead against Elijah’s and took both of his hands in his own. “Marry me, Lijah?” he whispered.
Elijah could barely reply as his throat locked up… “Yes…” he whispered back… “yes…”
Dominic smiled and then kissed him again, before they finally turned towards the waiting trio.
“Ok, are we ready?” The celebrant asked as she looked from Dominic and Elijah to Mal and Billy.
“We’re ready!” Dominic nodded as he raised Elijah’s hand and kissed it.
“Good…” The celebrant turned to the door. “Follow me…”
*
It was a short walk from the Pavilion to the gardens where they were to be married, and when they arrived they could see all their guests sitting down in the warm sunshine. It was a very small wedding; both of them wanted it that way, just their closest friends and family.
The celebrant took her place on the platform underneath a small open marquee, built for the sole purpose of weddings. Dominic, Elijah, Billy and Mal, waited for the instruction to approach the marquee.
The celebrant smiled at the guests who were looking at her expectantly.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” she said. Please welcome your grooms.
Everyone rose to their feet and clapped as Dominic and Elijah walked hand in hand, the short distance to take their place in front of the celebrant; Mal and Billy stood, one either side of them.
The celebrant looked at Dominic and Elijah and then motioned that their guests re-take their seats.
“Good afternoon…” she began. “We are here today to witness and celebrate a marriage, a union between two people. For Dominic and Elijah this ceremony is a public expression of something already real, and they wanted to share this day with you, their family and friends.
Before we proceed with the legal part of the ceremony, both Dominic and Elijah have prepared their own personal vows, and would like to give them to each other with you all as their witnesses.”
The celebrant looked at Dominic. “Ok, Dominic,” she said. “Please begin…”
Dominic nodded, and took in a deep breath in order to steady his pulse, which was racing. He turned to face Elijah, his beautiful Elijah, who was standing before him, smiling at him, and for a second, Dominic felt the overwhelming urge to just fall to his knees and thank God that Elijah was allowed to live, to see this day.
“Dom…?” Elijah’s smile broadened as he held Dominic’s hand a little tighter. “Love you…” he silently mouthed the words.
Dominic swallowed hard, he knew what he wanted to say, he had memorized it all, but he suddenly seemed to have lost the ability to speak.
“Dominic?” The celebrant prompted again, but Dominic didn’t hear her. He couldn't see her, he couldn't see anyone except the man he loved standing right in front of him, holding his hand, squeezing it ever so slightly in reassurance. It seemed like they were the only two standing there, in the warm New Zealand sun.
“Dominic?” The celebrant spoke again, and looked up and smiled at all the expectant guests.
“Dommie,” Elijah whispered as he took Dominic’s other hand. “You ok?”
Dominic nodded as he fought to keep the emotional overload he felt brewing at bay. Then finally he smiled at Elijah, and lifted one of his hands up to kiss it. He looked at the celebrant, and took in one more big deep breath, before turning his eyes back to Elijah. Then he began to speak.
"You, Elijah, are the love of my life."
Dominic then paused momentarily; there was a distinct wobble in his voice that he had no control over.
"You are my reason for living, and I pledge my undying dedication to you for the rest of my life. I love you with all of my heart and soul. You are loving, and thoughtful," he paused again, "very thoughtful, caring and beautiful in my eyes, and your love always makes me feel like the happiest and luckiest man alive."
Dominic paused again, and closed his eyes for a second, before continuing. He squeezed Elijah's hands tightly desperate to get his feelings and message across to him.
"I know that as long as you are next to me, I will be willing to give my life to you, and I am proud," his voice finally cracked, and he stopped once more in order to regain control.
He looked down at his feet, as memories flashed before his eyes of Elijah dying, and how he thought he was going to spend the rest of his life alone. He took a large shuddering breath and looked up.
"I am proud, Elijah," he continued. "Proud to have you as my life's partner and I promise that I will always be by your side, through good and bad times. I love you."
Time seemed to stand still as they looked at one another before the celebrant broke the silence.
“Elijah…?” she said.
Elijah glanced at her and nodded, and then he looked down at his hands being held by Dominic’s. They had been through so much together over the past year, so much pain and anguish which would have destroyed most relationships. But something had held them together, something that was undeniably unique.
Dominic was unique.
“Dom…” Elijah began, slowly. “You know how much I love you, and I don’t think I could say any more about my love for you than what was said when you stood by me on Mount Victoria, just over a year ago.
Dominic nodded, his eyes never leaving Elijah’s face.
“But this is something I do know,” Elijah continued… “and that is, my love for you has grown stronger, and that you have become part of me, Dom. A part of me … right here.” Elijah pressed his hand hard against his chest.
“I couldn’t imagine my life without you, and I never thought I would see this day…. not ever.” Elijah re-took Dominic’s hands again.
“You know…” Elijah voice began to break. “… only you know how much this day means to me, Dom. To have you standing here beside me, taking my hand… this… this day… this special day….”
The guests were utterly silent; the only noise that could be heard was the bird song from the trees. No one moved, and no one spoke as they watched the two men in front of them.
Elijah knew he was beginning to cry, and made no attempt to stop himself from doing so… he just held Dominic’s hand tighter, running his thumbs over Dominic’s fingers. He only had a few more words to say, and tears tracked down his face as he said them.
“For as long as I live, Dom I will love you and cherish you, and give you all that I have. I never want to be apart from you, Dommie… not ever. My life is yours.”
Silence…
Dominic reached up and wiped Elijah’s tears away, ignoring his own. Then they heard the celebrant begin to speak again. They turned to face her, letting one hand each drop loosely by their sides, with the others still grasped tightly.
"Guests and friends of Dominic and Elijah, just a few brief words of love's responsibility before we move on to the legal side of things, and the giving and receiving of rings."
"Dominic, Elijah, all of us here today know that you are deeply in love. But beyond the warmth and glow, the excitement and romance, what is love, really? Real love is caring as much about the welfare and happiness of your partner as about your own.
Real love is not possessive or jealous; it is liberating; it sets you free to become your best self. Real love is not total absorption in each other; it is looking outward in the same direction together. Love makes burdens lighter, because you divide them. It makes joys more intense because you share them. It makes you stronger, so that you can reach out and become involved with life in ways you dared not risk alone."
She smiled at Dominic and Elijah as she opened a leather folder. “Ok… this is the legal bit.”
They both smiled back at her.
“I want you both to repeat after me… Elijah, you first.”
Elijah nodded, and shifted his feet a little… he listened to the celebrant and then looked at Dominic as he repeated her words.
“I call upon these people here present to witness that I, Elijah Jordan Wood, take you Dominic Bernard Patrick Luke Monaghan, as my legally married partner.”
Dominic smiled at him.
“That was lovely, Elijah.” The celebrant turned her attention to Dominic. “Now, Dominic, repeat after me…”
Dominic nodded, and repeated the words…
“I call upon these people here present to witness that I, Dominic Bernard Patrick Luke Monaghan, take you, Elijah Jordan Wood, as my legally married partner.”
“Good…” The celebrant looked over at Billy. “The rings?” She asked as she offered him a small silver tray to place them on. Billy fumbled in his jacket pocket briefly before producing two platinum bands. He looked at them glinting in the sunshine before placing them on the tray.
The celebrant held the tray and looked out towards the guests again.
“These rings are the symbol of the vows taken, a circle of wholeness; the perfect form. These rings mark the beginning of a new journey together for Dominic and Elijah, filled with wonder, surprises, tears, laughter, celebrations, grief and joy. May these rings glow in reflection of the warmth and the life which flow through the wearers today.”
She looked at Elijah and indicated that he should pick up Dominic's ring. Elijah picked up the band and looked at it. It was the first time he had seen their wedding rings… Dominic had wanted them to be a surprise for the big day, and they were!
He stared at the ring looking at the shiny almost white metal, inlaid with pewter strands from his bracelet of hope. He looked from the ring to Dominic, and could hardly see him through a blur of tears, as it suddenly dawned on him that Dominic had planned this day… to marry him… probably from the very first day he had opened his eyes in hospital, a year ago.
Dominic smiled at Elijah; he could see how overwhelmed Elijah was by his little surprise. He offered his hand to Elijah, and Elijah took it with trembling fingers. He held the ring ready to slip it onto Dominic’s finger.
Elijah had memorized the words for this moment, but his mind had suddenly gone completely blank… He looked from the ring to Dominic as he tried to recall them.
Then celebrant whispered them to him, and Elijah repeated them.
“I give you this ring,” he said… “As I give you my love and faithfulness.” The ring slid home
Dominic looked at the ring on his finger before turning to pick up Elijah's ring. As he placed it on Elijah's finger he looked at the celebrant and said, “I would like to say something different, if that is possible?”
The celebrant nodded her head, and Elijah looked at Dominic questioningly.
Dominic coughed and cleared his throat; he wanted to get this right. He looked at the platinum ring half way on Elijah's scarred finger. He swallowed hard and then looked up from the ring into Elijah’s eyes. He saw that they were shining.
“With this ring, I give you my promise that from this day forward you shall never walk alone. May my heart be your shelter and my arms be your home. May you feel deeply loved, for indeed you are. With this ring, I give you my heart, Elijah. I have no greater gift to give."
Dominic pushed the ring all the way on to Elijah's finger, and then breathed again.
Elijah beamed at him.
They both turned to look at the celebrant… it was nearly over.
The celebrant looked at the guests once more. “Now we shall take a few minutes to sign the wedding documents.”
Dominic and Elijah walked over to a small table. All the documents had been prepared over a week ago, leaving only their signatures on the marriage licence to finalise everything.
Billy and Mal acted as official witnesses, and once the signings were over, and their unity candle lit, they returned to the platform in front of the celebrant again.
The celebrant addressed everyone.
“Too often we forget the importance of two people in love, being not only joined by their love, but also united by their friendship. No human relationship gives possession of the other - each person is absolutely different. Continue to see the greatness in one another and to tell each other when it is seen. And remember, you accept the sunshine and warmth; you must also accept thunder and lightning.
You have already come so far, having known each other for seven years. Many of the possible trials and tribulation that can affect a relationship, you have already experienced… if not more. But this is not to say that now is a time of complacency. Take what you have learned and continue to prosper and grow. There are no longer any secrets.”
The celebrant paused before bringing the wedding ceremony to its conclusion.
“On behalf of us all gathered here, I extend to you our love and support. May your relationship flourish and grow throughout a long and happy life together. By the powers vested in me as a civil marriage celebrant, I now pronounce you legally married.” She leant forward towards them. "Let me be the first to congratulate you!”
The guests stood up and began clapping, as Dominic and Elijah turned towards each other and kissed, a long sensual kiss…
When they finally pulled apart Elijah looked into Dominic’s eyes. “We did it…” he couldn’t help but giggle… “We really did it…”
Dominic smiled at Elijah; the joy in his face was so evident.
“Yes, we did, baby…” he said. “We did.” He slipped his arm around Elijah’s shoulder and just before they turned to greet their guests he put his mouth to Elijah’s ear and whispered.
“Love you, Lijah… can’t wait to make love to you…”
Then they were enveloped in a sea of guests.
tbc
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Sal, what can I say that I haven't already said...
I will say though, that if ever you write a fic around your shopping list, I will read it!
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Thanks and huggles!
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brilliant, really.
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