On October 5th, 892, the atmosphere at the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation was filled with excitement. The wedding of Jonathan Axelsen and Caroline Dupont was taking place in the company town church, conveniently located just 300 meters north of the main office. It was a special occasion, and all employees were invited to join the celebration, including the hardworking factory workers who had dedicated their efforts to the company, the clerical staff who diligently managed the paperwork, and the executives who steered the company's direction. The vibrant spirit of camaraderie was palpable as colleagues exchanged warm greetings, their faces adorned with joyful smiles.
The company town church, a modest yet charming structure, stood as a beacon of hope and unity for the community. Its doors swung open wide, welcoming the steady stream of handpicked attendees. Inside, the air was filled with a sense of anticipation and love. The pews were adorned with delicate floral arrangements, their sweet fragrance mingling with the murmurs of conversation.
Jonathan, the co-founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, stood confidently at the altar. His well-fitted suit showcased his dignified presence, while a tasteful boutonniere on his lapel symbolized his commitment and love for Caroline.
Caroline, the CEO of Loreal Company, looked radiant in her elegant white gown as she walked down the aisle. Arm in arm with her father, their synchronized steps drew them closer to the person she cherished most. A melodic hymn filled the air, bringing a serene touch to the bustling atmosphere of the moment.
"I remembered the day you told me that you are going to introduce this man to me, Caroline," Caroline's father said, his tone stern yet filled with underlying warmth.
"Well, Father, an unexpected problem arose that time when we were in Paris so we had no choice but to cancel it. Still…I want to thank you Father for showing up here with Mother. I know that our relationship is strained due to me defying your expectations, but your presence here means a lot to me," Caroline responded.
"You live your life now, my dear," her father interrupted, his stern tone softening further. "I may not always understand your choices, but I can see the happiness in your eyes. It is evident that Jonathan makes you happy, and that is all a parent could ever want for their child. Now…go meet him."
As they reached the altar, Caroline's father gently kissed her on the cheek before stepping back allowing Caroline to stand face to face with Jonathan. Their eyes locked, and at that moment, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and their shared journey ahead.
As they were in that intimate moment, Poul, Sara, Morgan, and Amelia sat in a row of reserved seats at the front, their eyes fixed on Jonathan and Caroline with heartfelt admiration.
"Oh look how lovely they are," Morgan commented. "It seems that Mr. Axelsen had beaten you on this one, Poul."
Poul scoffed softly. "My marriage with Sara is certain, Mr. Morgan. It's just that Jonathan and Caroline seemed eager to be the first."
As he said that, he felt a light tap on his side as Sara elbowed him gently. "Shh…Poul. You are jinxing it…"
"Do you still believe in that superstition, Sara?" Poul teased, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "I assure you, our love is far stronger than any jinx."
Sara playfully rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile. "Well, if that's the case, then let's focus on celebrating their happiness today. It's such a beautiful moment."
The ceremony continued with the priest stepping forward, his presence capturing the attention of everyone in the church.
"Dearly beloved, we gather here today to witness and celebrate the union of Jonathan and Caroline in holy matrimony," the priest began his words carrying a gentle authority. "Marriage is a sacred bond, a covenant between two souls who have chosen to embark on a shared journey of love, companionship, and support."
His eyes scanned the room, meeting the gazes of the attendees, as he continued, "Jonathan and Caroline, you stand before us today, surrounded by your loved ones and colleagues who have come to honor your commitment to one another. Your love has brought you to this moment, a moment that marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives."
Jonathan and Caroline exchanged glances, their faces radiant with happiness and anticipation.
"Marriage is not merely a legal or social contract," the priest continued. "It is a union of hearts, a promise to stand by each other through life's joys and challenges. It is a pledge to nurture and cherish one another, to be each other's rock and refuge, to build a life together grounded in love and respect."
He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in, before speaking directly to the couple. "Jonathan Axelsen, do you take Caroline to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love her, honor her, and protect her, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Jonathan's voice resonated with conviction as he answered, his gaze never leaving Caroline's eyes.
With all my heart and soul, I take Caroline to be my wife, to love her unconditionally, to honor and protect her, to support her dreams and aspirations, and to walk by her side through all the seasons of life."
The priest smiled and shifted his gaze to Caroline. "And you, Caroline Dupont, do you take Jonathan to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love him, honor him, and protect him, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," she said with a trembling voice. "With all my heart and soul, I take Jonathan to be my husband, to love him fiercely, to cherish and support him, to be his confidante and his guiding light, as we embark on this beautiful journey together."
The priest nodded with a wide smile.
"May the vows you have exchanged today be eternally bound in the tapestry of your love. May your union be a source of strength, comfort, and inspiration to you both? And now, by the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss."
As the priest spoke those final words, a collective cheer erupted from the attendees. Jonathan and Caroline leaned in and sealed their vows with a tender, passionate kiss. Applause and jubilant laughter filled the church, spreading an infectious wave of happiness throughout the room.
Poul, Sara, Morgan, and Amelia rose to their feet, clapping enthusiastically.
"That's my man over there!" Poul whistled.
"Poul…shh!" Sara shushed Poul but failed utterly.
After their kiss, Jonathan and Caroline turned to face their loved ones and colleagues. Jonathan pointed his finger at Poul as if acknowledging his cheers to him.
"We are going to be next, Sara. Not even a king from the other side of the ocean can stop us…" Poul said.
