Page 94 of Vapor

“Who’s waiting for you?” he asks.

“No one’s waiting for me. They’re all here for you. The waiting room is packed with men from the motorcycle club. Everyone’s there,” I tell him, feeling gratitude for their overwhelming support.

“Nah, babe. They’re there for you too.”

“I know,” I say, beaming at him.“And I couldn’t ask for anything more. I’ve never been a part of a supportive, loyal, and loving family before. But I am now.”

“Yes, you are.”

Squeezing his hand one last time, I leave the room to update my newfound family on Vapor’s condition. Despite the circumstances, my heart’s lighter than it’s ever been. I’ve finally found everything. I’ve never felt so loved.

Chapter 26: Blue

The crisp fall air carries the scent of magnolia and honeysuckle as I get ready to step into the back yard of our new home in the Garden District of New Orleans. Last month, Vapor and I decide to purchase the three-story Victorian the day we toured it. The house was originally built in 1894 but was renovated and restored within the last couple of years.

I fell in love with it immediately, mostly because it has a turret, which made me think of an enchanted castle. Decorative wrought-iron railings and delicate gingerbread trim add a touch of whimsy. Since every day with Vapor feels like a fairytale, why not live in a house to match?

He agreed. Secretly, I think he was captivated by the stained glass windows in the enclosed sun porch. But the bathtub in the primary suite could have been the catalyst; after all, it has its own fireplace. Also, he mentioned loving five bedrooms because it would give us space to have a family when we’re ready for one.

Personally, I love everything about the house. It has a wide, welcoming porch which wraps around the front of the house. Babet and I adorned its columns with hanging baskets overflowing with trailing ivy and colorful blooms. We bought comfortable wicker chairs and a swinging bench, which is perfect for lazy afternoons spent sipping sweet tea and watching the world go by.

We repainted the exterior walls from a gaudy pink to a warm sage green with lavender accents. We kept the intricate white trim that frames the tall windows and doors. My favorite arched windows flank the mahogany front door, allowing natural light to flood the interior. It’s so bright and cheerful inside.

Along the front edge of the property, a low wrought-iron fence, with its delicate scrollwork and gate, offers a glimpse of the enchanting sanctuary within while maintaining an air of privacy and exclusivity.

Our backyard garden is a carefully curated oasis, with cobblestone pathways winding through beds of azaleas, camellias, and magnolias. Tall, ancient oak trees provide shade and a sense of history, their branches draped with Spanish moss that sways gently in the breeze. Earlier today, a dozen men from the MC arrived to transform it into a haven of love and camaraderie.

The largest oak tree is adorned with strings of twinkling lights and ribbons in shades of autumn—burnt orange, deep red, and golden yellow. Beneath its sprawling branches, a simple arch draped in ivy and fairy lights marks the spot where Vapor and I will exchange our vows.

Stepping out onto a path of pink rose petals, I glance around at a sea of familiar faces. Members of the motorcycle club sit in white chairs. Some have their girlfriends by their side. The men’s leather vests and denim jackets are a stark yet comforting contrast to the romantic setting. I wanted everyone to be themselves at our wedding. Dressing up and pretending to be something I’m not isn’t who I am anymore, so I didn’t expect anyone else to be that either.

The girlfriends of the club members add a touch of grace to the gathering. They’re all dressed in casual summer dresses that flutter in the breeze, vibrant fabrics reflecting the warmth of the day. Their laughter rings out like chimes, mixing with the deeper voices of their partners, creating a beautiful, harmonious symphony.

I always through my sister would be by my side on my wedding day, but she refuses to stop blaming me for our father’s death. She can’t be reasoned with, so I’ve stopped trying.

My mother never came back from Europe. I think she’s happy to finally be free of my father. In a way I don’t blame her, and honestly, I don’t miss her either. She was never a big part of my life before, so why would she be now?

Instead of my blood family, I have my club family. The three people I care about the most are standing under the arch, waiting for me.

Babet, my only bridesmaid and the only one I want by my side today, is wearing her favorite muumuu. The pattern of bold, tropical flowers in hues of turquoise, coral, and sunshine yellow brings a smile to my face. The fabric flows effortlessly with a relaxed, airy fit perfect for a casual wedding.

Beside her, Ice stands in jeans, a light green T-shirt and of course, his cut. He’s grinning at Vapor who hasn’t taken his eyes off me. Ice is his best man, but any one of the men in the club could have taken his place. They’re all brothers and they all love each other with the same ferocity.

A local jazz band plays“Who Loves You” by Billie Holiday and Teddy Wilson as I walk down the aisle. I chose it because it captures exactly how I feel about Vapor. I fell for him right from the start, and I long for his caresses.

Vapor stands between Babet and Ice, beaming. He’s so handsome in the slate gray suit he insisted on wearing. He said he didn’t want me looking all kinds of gorgeous in my dress while he looked like a hobo off the street. I laughed at the time, because it didn’t seem to matter, but as I watch the photographer snap photos, I’m glad Vapor dressed up for our wedding. It means a lot to me.

When I reach the front of the gathering, Babet’s eyes glisten with unshed tears.“You look so beautiful,” she whispers as she takes my bouquet—a mix of wildflowers and roses.“I’m so glad he found you.”

“Me too,” I murmur before turning to take Vapor’s hands in mine. I gaze up at the love of my life and have to fight back my own tears. I never imagined a love like this could ever exist, but here we are.

One of the members of the club is an ordained minister. He offered to marry us, which was perfect. I’m glad we could keep everything in the family.

The first part of the ceremony is background noise to the hammering of my heart. My gaze locks Vapor’s as I begin my vows.“Vapor, you’ve seen me at my best and worst, and still, you’ve loved me through every storm.”

“And I always will.” He stands tall and proud, his eyes never leaving mine.

“Standing here with you today feels like the perfect harmony in a song I’ve been writing my whole life. From the moment our paths crossed, you’ve been my melody, my steady rhythm in a world of chaos, and my greatest adventure.

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