The first morning of spring dawned bright and clear, sunlight streaming through the windows of Eliza's cottage. Birds chirped outside, and the faint scent of blooming flowers carried on the breeze. Today was the day—her wedding day.

Eliza stood in front of her bedroom mirror, her wedding dress flowing around her like a cloud. It was simple yet elegant, with delicate lace sleeves and a sweetheart neckline. Her hair was swept up into a soft bun, a few loose curls framing her face. As she adjusted the necklace Nathan had given her on their first Christmas together, she caught her reflection and smiled.

Mia, her maid of honor, walked in carrying a steaming cup of tea. "You look stunning," she said, her voice full of emotion.

"Thanks, Mia," Eliza said, turning to her. "I can't believe this is actually happening."

Mia grinned, handing her the cup. "Believe it, girl. After everything you and Nate have been through, this day is long overdue."

Nathan's Morning

Across town, Nathan stood in the small church where the ceremony would take place. The wooden pews were decorated with wildflowers, and sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the floor.

Nathan adjusted his tie in the mirror, fidgeting nervously. His best man, Jake, clapped him on the shoulder.

"Relax, man. You've got this," Jake said with a chuckle.

Nathan exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "I know. It's just... I never thought I'd get here. With her. After everything."

Jake grinned. "Well, you're here now. And if you mess this up, I'm legally obligated to call you an idiot."

Nathan laughed, shaking his head. "Noted."

The Ceremony

The small church was filled with friends, family, and neighbors, all buzzing with excitement. The soft notes of a piano filled the air as Eliza stepped through the double doors, her arm linked with her father's.

Nathan turned, and the sight of her took his breath away. She was radiant, her smile brighter than the sunlight streaming through the windows.

As she walked toward him, her heart raced, but she felt an overwhelming sense of calm the moment their eyes met. This was where she was meant to be.

The officiant began, their words a blur as Eliza and Nathan focused on each other. When it came time to exchange vows, Nathan took her hands, his voice steady and full of emotion.

"Eliza, you've been my best friend, my compass, and my greatest love. You've seen me at my worst and stood by me, even when I didn't deserve it. I promise to love you, to support you, and to never take for granted the gift of having you in my life. You are my home, and I choose you today and every day."

Tears shimmered in Eliza's eyes as she spoke her vows.

"Nathan, you've been my anchor, my dreamer, and my heart. Even when you left, a part of you was always with me, reminding me to be strong and to hope. I promise to love you through every season, to stand by your side, and to cherish the life we build together. You are my greatest story, and I'll write it with you forever."

As they exchanged rings, the room seemed to hold its breath.

"I now pronounce you husband and wife," the officiant said, beaming. "You may kiss the bride."

Nathan pulled Eliza into his arms, their kiss met with cheers and applause from everyone around them.

The Celebration

The reception was held at the community center, now a symbol of everything they had built together. Strings of twinkling lights hung from the rafters, and wildflowers decorated the tables.

Nathan and Eliza danced to their favorite song, lost in each other as the rest of the world faded away.

"Did you ever think we'd end up here?" Eliza asked softly, resting her head on his shoulder.

"Not always," Nathan admitted. "But I knew I'd always find my way back to you."

Later, as the guests laughed, danced, and toasted to the happy couple, Eliza slipped outside for a moment of quiet. Nathan followed, wrapping his arms around her as they looked out at the stars.

"What are you thinking?" he asked, his voice low.

She smiled, leaning into him. "That this is it. The life we dreamed of. And it's only just beginning."

Nathan kissed her temple, his heart full. "It's you and me, Liza. Always."

Happily Ever After

As the night drew to a close and the last of the guests trickled out, Nathan and Eliza stood hand in hand, surrounded by the people they loved. Their journey had been anything but easy, but it had led them here—to a love worth fighting for, and a future worth holding on to.

This was their story. And it was just the beginning of a lifetime together.