The Runaway Groom

"Come on, it's just a suit," Zachary said, putting his elbow on James's shoulder. "And what's more important, me or the suit?"

James replied, "The suit, of course."

Speechless, Zachary started to turn and leave.

James promptly caught him. “I'm just kidding. Why so serious?" Zachary snorted. "It's understandable if you told me that your bride's more important, but your clothes too?! It's over. We're done.”

James chuckled. "Why are you being so petty?"

"You're petty.” Zachary shot James a look.

The pair continued their banter, but they were self-aware enough to quickly stop talking once they arrived at the crowded hall and even flashed a genial smile.

Their ability to change their expressions was certainly instantaneous. And being the protagonist of the day, James did draw considerable attention.

Mick had made plenty of friends at Minerva over the years. Many of them were attending James and Erin's wedding, and Mick was eagerly introducing James to everyone.

Though the ceremony was planned by a professional wedding planner, it has not started yet since they intended to maintain a schedule that stuck strictly to the time, per Zidonian tradition. Weddings in Minerva were naturally simpler and did not involve complex rituals.

Zidonian, specially requested since James and Erin were Zidonian—being wed here did not mean they were

busy schedules to attend Mr. Cross and Ms.

and booming as he announced,

went up to the altar, the priest continued, "And now, please rise to welcome the

Tommy excitedly tugged at Irene’s hand while pointing at it.

the doors swung open as the

everyone. With her delicate appearance, slim figure, and elaborate makeup, she was even more

Erin is so beautiful!

in

Mick's as she entered, the train of bridal gown swaying as she walked slowly

James, not forgetting to say, "I'm entrusting Erin

“I will. Don't

smiled—he would not have entrusted Erin to James if he

priest announced it was the time for speech. "Do you have

Jame turned toward Erin.