And Then, The Wedding

The sky was the perfect blue of oceans and the air was crackling electricity. The cathedral, with all its walls and spires alive and vibrant just a few moments ago, fell in a hush as the doors opened. Everyone looked, and there she was -- beautiful, willowy, and ethereal in her white dress that went on for miles and miles. She looked radiant, like a spirit of air made flesh, gliding slowly on the aisle.

My heart tugged at me inside its cage of flesh, "There's June," it said. "Your little girl, your sweet, fragile China doll." Words tumbled up to my throat, but my tongue kept them in. I felt the rising of tears. No, I told myself. She's very much a woman. You, of all people, can tell. Two weeks ago, do you remember noticing? Her stride was different. Her hug was more sure, and her smile -- although still displaying traces of being a little girl -- was the smile of... victory, I suppose one can call it. June was winning life, and thank the powers that be she has someone like Glenn, who has a heart that is larger than life, to be with her.

More than a thousand words.


The arcs and lines of Manila Cathedral in Intramuros.



More of Manila Cathedral, above the entrance.



By the altar.



June and Glenn, after the ceremony.



Walking towards a new life together.



Erick and Diane, still going strong after six years!



Den and Stef.



One half of the Tsinoy Mafia: Cham, Denmark, and Walter with his girl, Angeline.



Shakti, Stef, Gaye, Den, and Celine.



The beautiful flowers on the table. That's Ricky in the background, who came all the way from Bicol.



The appetizer, with shrimps and avocado, among other interesting mix of flavors.