The beach was quiet except for the gentle crash of waves and the soft rustle of the breeze through the driftwood arch. Chairs nestled in the sand held close friends and family, all turned toward the altar where Axylus stood barefoot in his linen suit, waiting for the love of his life.

You paced nervously, hidden just beyond the dunes, smoothing the fabric of your wedding attire for the hundredth time and beside you, their three-year-old daughter, Eleni, hopping excitedly from foot to foot in a tiny puffy tulle dress and flower crown that sat slightly askew from all her excited hopping.

Out in the clearing, Axylus stood at the altar, fidgeting nervously. The music faded, and the sound of static shimmered through the speakers, punctuated by the soft thud of the mic being handled.

“Hello daddy! It’s me,Eleni I’m walking down the aisle and will see you now.” Her tiny voice sparkled with excitement.

The crowd let out an audible “aww,” a few people chuckled in amusement. Axylus couldn’t help but wipe the tears that swelled in the corner of his eyes.

“You’re going to marry my mummy/daddy and they look perfect, like me! We love you so much.. to the moon and back. We love you lots and lots. Like jelly tots. See you in a minute!” She giggled between every word, her tiny voice bouncing like a ball of sunshine. “See ya, don’t want to be ya. See you alligator!”

When you appeared, walking slowly across the sandy path, with Eleni by your side, Axylus felt the whole world stop just for a moment. You smiled—and he knew it would be the image burned into his memory forever.

The ceremony was short. Sweet. Honest. You fumbled your vows halfway through, laughing through your tears. Axylus wiped his own eyes and told you that every version of the day—rain or shine—led him here. To you.

When they kissed, the crowd erupted in applause, laughter echoing into the waves. It wasn’t just a celebration of a wedding. It was the start of a lifetime.

Axylus leaned close and whispered, “This is my favorite chapter so far. Us and Eleni.”