The Runaway Groom novel Chapter 1031

"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.

The priest soon spoke in Zidonian, specially requested since James and Erin were Zidonian—being wed here did not mean they were Minervan.

"Thank you everyone for taking time from your busy schedules to attend Mr. Cross and Ms. Gooding's wedding."

The priest's voice was rich and booming as he announced, "You may come forward, Mr. Cross."

After James went up to the altar, the priest continued, "And now, please rise to welcome the bride."

Everyone turned toward the main doors at that, and Tommy excitedly tugged at Irene's hand while pointing at it. "Mommy, is Aunt Erin coming in from there?"

Jame turned toward Erin.

It was a moment to convey his love, and though their relationship started with a one-night stand, many unpleasant matters followed.

That was why he had a serious look and an earnest tone. "It's my great fortune to be the one whom you'll spend the rest of your life with. From now on, I'll love you more. I'll shelter you, share all your burdens, and spend the rest of my life with you. Be it in the past or the future, I'll never give you up. I love you."

Once he was finished, Zachary led the crowd in applause!

The priest then turned to Erin. "What about you, Ms. Gooding?"

Erin's eyes were welling with tears.

The many moments of their past seemed to echo in his mind, and it was certainly difficult for them to get to where they were today.

"Thanks for coming into my life and making me the happiest person in the world. I entrust all my life to you, and I'll be with you no matter rain, sleet, or snow!"