"This, this is re-really happening," Melissa gasped, staring at herself in the mirror.

"Yes," Carmen nodded, "But, I'm right here don't be nervous,"

"Do I look okay?" Melissa asked.

"Yes, you look...beautiful Avalon,"

The mask shifted inside her pocket, making Melissa pause as they turned to the doors.

"Hang onto it for me?" Dick asked, pressing it into her palm, breath tickling her ear.

"Are you sure?"

"I wouldn't trust it to anyone else,"

"Okay," she smiled.

The doors opened wide, everyone turning to see her. Tears threatened to spill, blinking, she put down her veil, took Carmen's arm and walked down the aisle. She caught Tim's eye and averted her gaze. She was nervous!

"I have one more thing for you," he grinned.

"And what's that?"

Without a word, he pulled a necklace from his pocket, the bee pendant catching the light.

"I know you don't wear jewelry but I saw it today and thought of you,"

"I like it," she smiled, moving her hair so he could put it around her neck.

"Do you know why I chose a bee?"

"Why?"

"Because Melissa means honeybee,"

She kissed his cheek. He wrapped his arms around her and spun her in circles making her laugh

Why was it so long? It seemed to stretch forever! She tensed.

"I'm right here," Carmen promised.

"I know," she nodded, tears slipping down her cheeks.

The end was in sight. The arch was decorated beautifully in carnations and roses. Dick was there. She just had to get to him. The sooner the better.

"Melissa,"

"Tim you startled me!" she snapped, "What is it?"

"You might want to sit down"

It started to drizzle rain as they reached the end. Not that Melissa cared. The flowers slowly fell from her hands as she ran the last few steps to the arch.

"I love you," she tearfully whispered, "Forever and always,".

Then, taking the mask from her pocket, she pressed a kiss to it.

And laid it atop the casket.

Well, did I surprise you? I know it isn't long but it's just something I thought of.