This Time(47)

The quartet changed the music, and Pacabel's Cannon in D wafted on the air. At the right time in the music, the ushers swung open the sanctuary doors and the guests stood as Belle glided into the room on her father's arm. All eyes focused on her, but for Belle, only one set of eyes mattered.

Burke's handsome face bore an expression full of love. Tears pooled in her eyes and her heart, humbled and honored, softened with emotion.

Once at the altar, Duke placed her hand in Burke's, kissed her cheek with trembling lips and stepped back.

Burke drew her close, locking his eyes with hers. His smile radiated love and tenderness. They lingered in the joy of the moment, letting the music play, basking in each other's presence.

Pastor Mike began the ceremony with prayer and a scripture reading. "Love is patient, love is kind. Love keeps no record of wrong."

With emotion, Burke and Belle spoke their own vows, repeating words they'd penned from their heart.

Burke's vows brought tears to Belle's eyes. "I left you once, and I promise to never leave you again. Never. I will always be with you, encourage you, comfort and love you. You can depend on me. I pledge my fidelity and heart to you, and you alone. Belle, before God and this congregation, I make these vows to you."

Wiping away her tears, Belle spoke her vows from her heart. "I promise to forgive and forget that you ever left me. This day is a new day for us, Burke. The past is past. It is not a part of our future. I promise to love you, respect you, encourage you and trust you. I will be faithful to you in body, mind and soul. Burke, before God and this congregation, I make these vows to you."

After Pastor Mike pronounced them married, they shared communion together as their first act as husband and wife. Reese and Duke gathered around them and prayed over them a father's blessing.

Finally, Pastor Mike presented them to the congregation, announcing a new family to the teary eyed guests. "With great joy I introduce to you, Mr. And Mrs. Burke Benning.

"Burke," he said, his face animated with a wide smile. "You may kiss your bride."

As his lips touched hers, she fell into his embrace. Thunderous applause filled the sanctuary. When the processional music started, the ushers opened the doors. The local press lit the back of the room with video lights and camera flashes.

Burke gazed down at Belle and winked, squeezing her hand three times, I-love-you. She beamed up at him, her heart enraptured and in love.

This time is our time, she thought, walking up the aisle on his arm. This time.