Chapter 45

The Celebration of Love The first ray of morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a glow in Lin Xiaoxiao's room. She sat up in bed, took a deep breath, and felt the arrival of this special day. "Xiaoxiao, are you up? Today, you will be the most beautiful bride." Her mother's gentle voice came from outside the door. Lin Xiaoxiao opened the door and saw her mother with tears in her eyes but a happy smile on her face. "Mom, I'm ready." The house was already bustling with activity. The bridesmaids arrived one after another, dressed in light blue dresses, holding various makeup bags and hairstyling tools. "Xiaoxiao, we're here to help you get ready," Xiao Li and the other bridesmaids said excitedly. Lin Xiaoxiao sat at the dressing table as the bridesmaids began to do her makeup and hair. Every detail was meticulously attended to, ensuring she would be the most beautiful bride. Meanwhile, Lu Tingshen was at his own home, with the groomsmen helping him put on his suit and adjust his tie. His younger brother, one of the groomsmen, handed him a delicate boutonniere. "Tingshen, you look really handsome. Xiaoxiao will be pleasantly surprised when she sees you," the groomsmen teased. Lu Tingshen stood in front of the mirror, took a deep breath to calm his excitement, and said, "It's time to go meet my bride." The wedding venue was already set up, with white petals strewn along the path to the ceremony site, and soft music floating in the air. Guests arrived one after another, dressed in festive attire, their faces beaming with joy. Lin Xiaoxiao's father, dressed in a formal suit, walked into her room. "Xiaoxiao, it's time." Lin Xiaoxiao stood up, wearing a white wedding dress and holding a bouquet, looking stunning. She walked out of the room with her father, heading towards the wedding venue. All eyes were on her as she slowly walked towards the ceremony site, each step filled with determination and happiness. Lu Tingshen stood at the ceremony site, watching Lin Xiaoxiao approach, his heart filled with love. "Xiaoxiao, you look beautiful," he said softly, extending his hand to her. Lin Xiaoxiao took Lu Tingshen's hand, and under the witness of the guests, they began the wedding ceremony. "We are gathered here today to witness the love of Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen, as they make their lifelong commitment to each other," the pastor's voice was solemn and warm. They exchanged vows, promising to face the future together, no matter what it held. "I do," Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen said almost simultaneously, their voices filled with determination and love. The moment to exchange rings arrived. Lu Tingshen placed a sparkling diamond ring on Lin Xiaoxiao's finger, and she placed a delicate men's ring on his. "Now, I pronounce you husband and wife. Tingshen, you may kiss your bride," the pastor said with a smile. Lu Tingshen looked at Lin Xiaoxiao with deep affection, gently kissed her forehead, and then her lips. The guests erupted in applause and cheers. After the ceremony, the guests were guided to the banquet hall, which was decorated with beautiful flowers and candles, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen walked into the banquet hall hand in hand, and the guests stood up and applauded, celebrating their union. The wedding banquet began, with delicious food being served. The guests enjoyed the meal while sharing in the couple's joy. "Xiaoxiao, Tingshen, we wish you a happy marriage and a lifetime of togetherness," the guests offered their blessings to the newlyweds. Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen spent a joyful time with their family and friends at the banquet, dancing, singing, and sharing their stories. As night fell, the wedding celebration gradually came to an end. Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen stood at the door, bidding farewell to the guests. "Xiaoxiao, Tingshen, we are proud of you and happy for you," their parents said as they said their goodbyes. Lin Xiaoxiao and Lu Tingshen tightly embraced their parents, "Thank you, we will always cherish this love." After the last guest had left, the two of them stood hand in hand under the moonlight, looking back on this day filled with love and blessings. "Xiaoxiao, this is the beginning of our life together. I promise to always love you, respect you, and support you," Lu Tingshen said tenderly. Lin Xiaoxiao nestled in his arms, "Tingshen, I also promise to always love you, respect you, and support you." Their wedding concluded perfectly with the blessings of family and friends, and the two of them embarked on a new journey in life hand in hand.