The Watson private estate in Palawan was transformed into a floral paradise. Since Mica was Jay's closest friend and Calix was one of Keifer's most trusted Law boys, no expense was spared.
White orchids hung from the palm trees, and the altar was set right on the white sand, overlooking the turquoise ocean.
"I can't believe she's actually doing it," Kit sniffed, dabbing his eyes with a silk handkerchief. He was wearing a suit that cost more than a small car. "Our little surgeon is getting married to a man who argues for a living. It's poetic."
"It's a miracle Calix found someone who can handle his legal jargon," Moya joked, straightening his tie.
The Bridal Suite
Inside the villa, I was helping Mica with her veil. She looked like a dream in her lace gown.
"I'm so nervous, Jay," Mica whispered, her hands shaking. "What if I trip? What if I forget my vows?"
"You won't," I said, giving her a reassuring hug. "You survive anatomy labs and 24-hour shifts. A walk down the aisle is nothing compared to that. Besides, look at who's waiting for you."
I pointed out the window. Calix was standing at the altar, looking unusually nervous, adjusting his cuffs every five seconds. Beside him stood Keifer, looking powerful and calm as the Best Man.
The Ceremony
As the music started, the guests took their seats. Because we were still keeping our marriage a secret at the university, Keifer and I had to be careful. But here, surrounded only by family and Section E, we could breathe.
Mica walked down the aisle, and I saw Calix's eyes well up with tears. He looked like he'd won the biggest case of his life.
When the priest asked, "Who gives this woman away?" I saw Keifer catch my eye from the altar. He gave me a secret, wink—a silent reminder of our own vows.
"I do," Calix said firmly when it was time for the 'I do's'.
"I do," Mica replied, her voice ringing out over the sound of the waves.
As they kissed, Section E erupted into cheers. Keigan and Keiran threw flower petals so hard it looked like a pink blizzard. Kit was full-on sobbing now, and even Erdix looked up from his phone to clap.
The Reception Chaos
The party moved to a massive tent on the beach. The food was incredible, and the drinks were flowing.
"A toast!" Moya stood up, clinking his glass. "To Calix and Mica! May your life be full of love, and may you never have to sue each other!"
After the speeches, the music turned up. I was sitting at the table, watching the chaos, when a hand settled on my shoulder.
"Dance with me, weify," Keifer whispered.
"Babe, people might see," I teased, looking around.
"Let them," my hubby growled softly, pulling me to my feet. "In this circle, everyone knows you're mine. I've spent all day watching Calix show off his wife. It's my turn."
The "Mumma" Dance
As we danced slowly under the fairy lights, Keigan and Keiran ran up and hugged our legs.
"Mumma, can we have more cake?" Keigan asked, looking up with puppy-dog eyes.
Ask your Kuya," I laughed.
Keifer looked down at the boys, his "Green Forest" side shining through. "One more slice. But if you get a sugar rush and wake us up at 3 AM, you're both doing laps around the beach."
"Deal!" they shouted, running back to the dessert table.
Keifer pulled me closer, his forehead resting against mine. The "Monster" shadow of his father was completely gone, replaced by the warmth of the family we had built.
"You think we'll be this happy in fifty years, honey?" I asked.
"Fifty? I'm planning on forever, weify," he replied, before kissing me deeply as the fireworks began to explode over the Palawan sea.
... .