Page 7 of My Only

“Hassani,” I began, “from the moment we met, you’ve been the light that brings laughter and ease to my days. You are the dreamer when I’m the realist.”

Reverend Harte chuckled softly.

“And the optimist when I’m afraid to hope.” I nodded. “In you, I’ve found a partner, a friend, and a love that reminds me every day that life is better when shared.”

Hassani closed his eyes and nodded at my words.

“I vow to stand beside you, even when life gets messy, to celebrate your wins as if they’re my own, and to build a life with you that reflects all the joy and love we share. Today, I choose you. Forever.”

“Damn,” he whispered before a bright smile pulled at his beautiful lips.

“Beautiful,” Reverend Harte commented. “And now, Hassani.”

Hassani folded his bottom lip into his mouth and bit down as a smile pulled at the corners. “A. Boogie.”

I tossed my head back in laughter as the crowd echoed with their own.

“Ayla, you are my foundation, baby,” he continued, his voice steady, filled with emotion. “The steady ground beneath me when life feels unsteady. The spark that inspires me to dream bigger than I ever thought possible.”

He licked his lips, shaking his head slightly. “Man, when I look at you… hmph.”

I squeezed his hand, inhaling deeply to hold back my tears.

“I see a woman who challenges me, believes in me, and loves me.”

I felt the weight of his words in my chest.

“You’ve taught me that love isn’t just about the big moments, but the quiet ones. Those mornings over coffee, those nights spent dreaming together over red wine.”

I stared into Hassani’s eyes, feeling something stir deep inside me.

We had been together for four years, and while our love had always been strong, on this day, in this moment, it felt richer—stronger—something potent and undeniable.

“I vow to honor the woman you are, to never stop learning how to love you better, and to always come back to you, no matter how far life takes us.” His grip on my hand tightened. “Today, I promise to build not just a home, but a life worthy of you.”

Afterward, Hassani held my gaze for a moment longer before giving a small nod toward Reverend Harte, silently signaling that he was done.

“My God,” Reverend Harte murmured, drawing our attention back to him. “Dem vows deep, man—woi!”

Laughter and applause broke out behind us, voices calling out their approval.

“Okay, all right,” Reverend Harte said, grinning. “Let us dry our eyes here…”

More chuckles from the crowd.

“…and proceed.” He gestured. “May I have the rings?”

Hassani and I had chosen not to have a maid of honor or best man, so we were responsible for our rings.

I had kept his on my thumb during the ceremony, and he carried mine in his pocket. We handed them to Reverend Harte, who held them in his hands for a brief prayer before passing them back to us.

“Ayla and Hassani,” Reverend Harte said, his voice warm, “these rings are more than simple bands of white gold and diamonds.” He looked between us. “They are a circle with no beginning and no end… just as your love has no limits.”

I blinked back my tears.

“When you look at these rings in the years to come, may they remind you of this day, this moment, and the promises you have made to each other.”

Reverend Harte gestured for Hassani to place the ring on my finger.

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