Part Four – Forever and Always

"For the final time, hold still Mairin!" Serena snapped, giving the redhead a small tap on the head with the brush. Mairin sighed, forcing herself to go still as Serena ran continued doing her hair, running the brush through her thick hair.

"I'm just... nervous," Mairin muttered, resisting the urge to look down. "You know?"

"It's your wedding day!" An energetic voice said from behind them. "You should be excited!"

Mairin's gaze flickered across the mirror, allowing her to catch a glimpse of the grinning blonde next to Serena. Like always, Bonnie had a huge smile on her face, a Frogadier on one shoulder, a Dedenne on the other. Serena smiled at the young woman, her eyes widening slightly.

"Bonnie, why aren't you in your bridesmaid dress yet?" Serena cried, looking alarmed.

Bonnie shrugged, unconcerned as she patted one of her Pokemon. "We have like, an hour until the wedding starts, I have plenty of time."

Serena on the other hand, looked panicked, as if they only had minutes to get ready. Serena was currently wearing a long green dress, sky blue flowers stitched across the skirt of the dress and sleeves. Even though it was a spring wedding, Mairin had insisted on long sleeves for the bridesmaids, maid of honor, and of course her own wedding dress. Bonnie had moaned upon learning about this, while Serena had agreed with Mairin– the longer sleeves complimented the dresses' design.

Mairin hadn't been too worried about the design though– just as long as nothing looked horrid she'd be happy. The true reasoning for the long sleeves was because she knew that spring was a fickle season, and she just hadn't wanted to risk being cold if winter decided to cling on until April like it had in years past.

With Serena temporarily distracted, Mairin allowed herself to look down at the wedding dress she was currently wearing. It was made of a brilliant white fabric that felt like silk, though she knew it wasn't. She honestly wasn't sure what it was called– Serena had been a lifesaver when it came to helping her pick out dresses. There had been a few clashes between them however, Serena worrying over the style while Mairin had been more focused on how comfortable they'd be to wear.

They had eventually found a middle ground– the silky wedding dress having been both comfortable and easy to move about in for Mairin, and instyle enough for Serena. The white dress flowed out near the ground– giving the cloth plenty of space between it and Mairin's clumsy feet. The dress had no train– Mairin having seen it as a potential tripping hazard, and Serena had declared them out of style.

Silver sequins decorated the neckline and sleeves of the dress, webs of them branching down the dress and merging into trails of light blue sequins– which were formed into the shape of flowers down the skirt of the gown, mirroring Serena's maid of honor dress. More silver sequins lined the hem, and the dress was topped off with a beautiful green sash around her waist.

"And you're not stressed in the slightest?" Serena asked as she returned to Mairin, having finally conviced Bonnie to go and change. Mairin looked up at Serena by staring into the mirror, blinking.

Stressed?

"No," Mairin finally said. "Just nervous."

She was getting married– today.

Serena shook her head, brushing through Mairin's hair one more time before starting to do a Kalosian braid with her red hair, causing the bride-to-be to flinch every time a bobby pin was pushed against her head to hold every strand of hair in place.

"I swear, I've been more stressed out about your wedding than you've been," Serena muttered, though she didn't sound upset at all by this.

"Heh... I'm sure I would have been if you haven't been helping me," Mairin said– the moment had realized she'd have a whole wedding to plan she had gone straight to Serena for help– and it was thanks to the Kalos Queen that the wedding plans had gone through at all. Serena had basically seized control of the wedding plans the moment Mairin had asked– which had just been what Mairin had wanted.

Serena was a natural leader– and a natural when it came to what Mairin liked to call 'fancy events'. Serena had so many connections since she was the current Kalos Queen– able get the best deals for the flowers, dresses, food, and the cake. Thanks to Serena she knew that this wedding would satisfy what her younger self had always dream of, and not destroy her wallet at the same time.

But Serena hadn't been controlling either– so many conversations of 'Are you sure this is the dress you want? These are the wedding colors you want, right? I know you like simple Mairin, I'm not overstepping what you'd like, right?'

Serena smiled, but didn't say another word as she continued on with Mairin's hair– something she had Serena had different ideas for. Serena had offered to connect her with many of the high-end hair stylist– while Mairin was more than happy just to have her friend do it. This was a wedding, not a runway. In the end, Serena had given into doing it herself.

"Hold your breath," Serena said, before drenching her with hairspray.

At least, it felt like drenching to Mairin– she had never used more than a few sprays at most! Serena however released a plume around her, humming lightly as she turned the chair around to get a good look at Mairin.

"Perfect," She said after a moment, smiling happily. "I'll have one more look at it when we get closer to the wedding to make sure it stays this way– I'll have to make sure me and Bonnie are ready as well– we can not mess up your special day!"

"This dress is going to mess me up..." Bonnie muttered, having reentered the room. Her dress reflected Serena's– rather hers was mostly blue with green highlights. "I'm going to burn up in this thing!"

"And who's the one who'd run around in costumes in the summer when we were younger?" Serena asked with a slight smirk.

"I was just a kid then– I had more energy!"

Mairin smiled at her two best friends, before leaning back in her chair, closing her eyes. Less than an hour... In less than an hour she'd be walking down the aisle– she was going to be getting married.

Her heart started thumping– she hadn't lied to Serena– there was no stress about the wedding. It was simple, small, and traditional– just what she wanted. But it was her nerves she just couldn't calm down. Nervous wasn't the word– she was petrified. Married, she was getting married– and she honestly had no idea what to expect!

But at the same time there was a strange sense of eagerness– because what she had always wanted was about to happen. She was about to be married to the man she loved.

"Mairin?"

She was snapped out of her thoughts as Serena called her name. She blinked several times, looking at her maid of honor blankly.

"H-huh?"

Serena smiled. "You okay? You weren't answering us there for a moment."

Mairin flushed. "Just... lost in thought."

Serena's smiled widened. "We just wanted to make everything was ready. Cake and the refreshments arrived, right?"

"Last night," Mairin replied. "The caterer has them all set up."

"The professor's ready?" Serena asked.

Once again Mairin nodded. "Strange to see him out of a lab coat, but he has everything he needs."

Serena nodded at this, then turned to Bonnie. "The boys are ready, right?"

"Why are you looking at me, I don't know!" Bonnie said, fidgeting with the sleeves of her dress.

"Because we cannot let Alain catch glimpse of Mairin until it's time for the wedding," Serena replied, pushing Bonnie towards the door. "It's bad luck! Now you go make sure that they are dressed and ready to go, we will not be delaying this wedding because anyone thinks they can wait until the last minute!"

"I'm going, I'm going..." Bonnie muttered, and she flashed a grin at Mairin. "I'll make sure that my brother doesn't have anything that can blow up."

Mairin smiled. "Tell Alain I say hi."

"Check on the rest of the bridesmaids as well!" Serena called after Bonnie. "I don't think they've ever done something like this before!"

"They'll be fine," Mairin said, wistfully looking after Bonnie. She was sure Serena was going to keep her confined to this room until the wedding as to not risk Alain seeing her wedding dress– something she had been very adamantly against.

Then again she hadn't been too fond of letting Alain in on any of the wedding plans after he had suggested black as one of their wedding colors. (He had eventually decided that blue would go better with Mairin's green than black would after receiving several glares from Serena and Mairin.)

As soon as Bonnie was out the door Serena was back to her mental checklist.

"Flower girl?" Serena asked.

"Hope's ready," Mairin said– her niece had been ecstatic the moment Mairin had asked her to be a flower girl.

"Ring bearer?"

"Reluctant about the bowtie, but ready."

And on Serena went, pacing slightly as she ran through everything. Mairin closed her eyes, more focused on the clock on the wall. They had gone through everything last night, and the night before, and the week before– they had everything ready.

But was she ready herself?

Marriage... she was getting married today! The more Mairin thought on it, the more nervous she became. Was this really the right choice– was she ready to be a wife? There was no doubt about how she felt about Alain– but what if this was a mistake? What if this wasn't the next step they needed to take? What if she–

"Mairin!"

"H-huh?" Mairin asked, snapped out of her racing thoughts once more by Serena.

"Getting nervous again?" Serena asked with a smile. "I just asked you who was going to walk you down the aisle– you said a few weeks ago that you'd find someone and I just realized I never got back to you about that."

Mairin's eyes widened. "Um..."

Serena turned to face her. "You did find someone– right?"

Mairin flushed a bit, staring down at the hem of her wedding dress, speaking quickly and quietly. "WellImighthaveforgotten..."

Serena stopped in her tracks. "We have roughly forty-five minutes until the ceremony begins and you don't have someone to walk you down the aisle?!"

Serena wasn't angry– simply panicked. Her light pacing swiftly increased, blue eyes wide.

"I can go asked someone!" Mairin cried, leaping to her feet. "It shouldn't be too hard, I mean, the professor will be preforming the ceremony... but I can find someone–!"

"Who though?" Serena asked. "You can't just not have someone walk you down the aisle– it's your wedding! It's an important part of the ceremony! Oh, why didn't I realize this sooner, I don't want to ruin your wedding–"

"Hey," Mairin said. "It's not your fault– I'm the one that forgot. I'll... I'll go ask my dad, he should be here soon..."

Serena hesitated. "Is that who you want doing it?"

Mairin rolled her eyes. "Have you been listening to Alain about my family? Honestly, my sister is the only bad one– I know that Dad won't say no," She headed towards the door. "I'll just go ask him real quick, no sweat."

Serena hesitated. "But Alain–"

"I won't let him see me," Mairin promised. "Don't worry."

Serena hesitated, before giving a reluctant nod. "Okay... just hurry. I don't want anything to happen to you."

"To me or to my dress?" Mairin asked with a slight grin.

"To you of course–!"

Mairin's grinned widened. "I was just teasing Serena– I'll see you in a minute."

And with that Mairin headed out the door.

The church where the wedding was being held was a formal place– a simple chapel dedicated to Xerneas. It had been built as a place for weddings and ceremonies, regularly rented out for use. Mairin had found the place charming, the small building made of white stone, with a beautiful stained-glass window of Xerneas in the chapel.

But Mairin didn't have time to admire it as she hastily made her way through the hallways, nodding politely at those who paused to congratulate her and wished her luck. She couldn't give more than a friendly smile to them though, before quickly heading on. People luckily seemed to take notice of her rush, and didn't hold her up for long. Mairin forced a smile on her face, not portraying any of her worry as she hurried through the halls, looking for her father– or any of her family.

She unfortunately didn't see Alain anywhere as she made her way through the church– she hadn't seen him since early this morning thanks to Serena, and the sight of her husband-to-be would probably calm her nerves.

Mairin shook her head– she just needed to find her dad right now.

"The dress looks wonderful Mairin," Sophie smiled at Mairin as their eyes met.

Mairin nodded at her former coworker. "Thank you Sophie," Mairin gave a small smile, before pausing. "Um, have you seen any of my family anywhere by chance?"

Sophie paused as well, thinking. "I believe that adorable niece of yours was with Bonnie a few minutes ago, and I saw your brother heading towards the front of the building."

"Thank you," Mairin said, a bit curtly, and she quickly began to make her way to the front of the church. Justin wasn't who she was looking for, but if anyone would know where their parents were it would be him. Mairin gathered the skirt of her dress in her hands, allowing her to move a bit faster through the church.

She was frustrated with herself that she had forgotten as something as important as someone walking her down the aisle, but there was nothing she could do but right that wrong, even if it was at the last second. Mairin hesitated for a moment though, would it be alright to just suddenly throw this on her dad? Would he be offended that she was asking him this at the last minute?

She closed her eyes– this was her father! This was nothing to worry about– there was no sense in letting herself panic. Besides, who else would she ask to walk her down the aisle? The only other person that came to mind was Professor Sycamore, but since he was going to be the one performing the ceremony, he obviously wouldn't be able to do it. She had wanted a traditional wedding after all– and so having her father walk her down the aisle would be traditional.

But why was she feeling such a sense of dread then?

...Perhaps she was more stressed than she had realized.

She let out a sigh as she turned the corner, nearly to the front doors. Everything would be fine, it wasn't as if she had forgotten as something as big as a cake or a dress, the wedding would be just fine. In just a little while she'd be a married woman, and all this pressure would be behind her. She just needed to press forward, and enjoy the moment. This was her big day– today she was going to be officially married to Alain!

A smile spread across Mairin's face at the thought.

"What is she doing here?!"

Mairin froze as she heard the voice, sharp and angry, echoing through the hallways. She jumped, startled at hearing shouting within the church. She blinked, heart racing a bit as the cry died down, and she frowned. The voice sounded familiar, but her mind couldn't place it right away. Mairin hesitated for a moment, before pressing forward to where the hallways turned, and looked out at the entrance hall.

There was Justin, her brother currently having his back facing her. His posture was tensed however, and in front of him stood three people. Mairin's eyes quickly scanned them: her mother, her father, and...

Mercy.

Mairin stiffened at the sight of her older sister, blood running cold.

"Now Justin, why shouldn't she be here?" Mairin had pulled back around the corner, heart pounding, but she could hear her mother's voice carrying through the halls.

Mairin pressed her eyes closed, heart hammering.

Mairin had been torn when it had come to her sister and her wedding– Alain had wanted to not to even contact Mercy, while Mairin had been afraid of raising the tensions that already stood between her and Mercy. They hadn't been on speaking terms in years, but she knew that her sister would find any way to make things worse– perhaps something like not knowing of her sister's marriage. She didn't know if she should just send an invitation and pray that she didn't show up– or just take Alain's advice had pretend that Mercy didn't exist.

In the end she had left a message for her sister telling her that she was getting married– but had not invited her to the wedding.

"'Why shouldn't she be here'?" Justin snarled. "Because she shouldn't be here! She wasn't invited– so why in Zygarde's name did you bring her here?"

"Oh Justin, this isn't hurting you, is it?"

Mairin couldn't help but flinch at the sound of Mercy's voice. Twenty-four years old, and she still cowered at her voice. Mairin didn't focus on this though, simply pulling back, mind trying to understand what was happening. Mercy was here– the one that had hurt her so much. The very last person she wanted to see was at her wedding.

"Dad," Justin's voice was quieter now, but still strained. "You know she wasn't invited, why did you bring Mercy?"

"I think there's something wrong with Mercy not being invited to her own sister's wedding," Her father said, in his normal, business-like tone.

"...We all know why Mercy wasn't invited," Justin growled. "And we all know that you have no interest in even congratulating her– so why don't you just leave? This is the last thing she needs today."

"Honestly," Mairin's father said with a sigh. "You are no longer children, can you please put this to the side, Justin."

Mairin slowly pulled herself back towards the corner, looking out at her family. Mercy was standing near their mother, a satisfied smirk on her face. Her face was framed by red curls, a pair of pink eyes gleaming.

Mairin bit her lip, hurt rushing through her. Her parents had brought Mercy here– they knew what she was like! Why would they bring Mercy, how could they just invite her of their own accord!

"This has nothing to do with age," Justin growled. "You know how Mercy treats Mairin, and you thought it was appropriate to bring her to her wedding? When she wasn't invited?" He shot a glare at Mercy. "You hate her– we both know that– the only reason why you'd want to be here would be to do something to Mairin."

"Oh, I've never laid a finger on her," Mercy said with a laugh, a laugh that never failed to make Mairin's stomach curl.

Why was she here, why was she here...?

"Mom," Justin muttered.

"Justin, that's enough," The older woman said with an exasperated sigh. "Leave your sister alone."

Those four words felt like a knife to the heart.

Mairin blinked as she heard them, for a moment not quite registering what she was hearing. Slowly an inky feeling spread through her, a heaviness taking root in her stomach. The words were simple, so simple, words that most would never think twice of.

But they were the words Mairin had always longed to hear growing up. That she wished would have even been said in passing– said when Mercy would relentlessly harass her in her childhood, when harsh and bitter words would be thrown at her. When her sister would taunt and degrade her, make her feel as if she were nothing. Mairin had always hoped that someone would step in– would shield from her sister's words.

But Mairin had always been on her own, left her at the mercy of her sister.

She had always seen things as only between her and her sister– she had never dwelled on the fact that no one had defended her before– seeing it as her own problem to handle. But as she stood there, hovering around the corner, a heavy weight crushed her heart.

Her parents had always stood by when Mercy would reduce her to tears, they had heard everything ever said to her, but had done nothing. But yet when Justin pressed Mercy– accused her for being here when she shouldn't– they had taken her side. They had defended Mercy against Justin– who had just been trying to help Mairin.

The words had been simple– but they had brought a painful realization for Mairin– that they didn't care.

Her parents hadn't cared all those years Mercy had hurt her, hadn't cared when she had ran crying from the room. Mairin closed her eyes, heart racing as she remembered hoping that someone would try to comfort her, would seek her out after running. It had never happened though, it had merely become part of her routine, her life. How could she think twice of something when nothing different had ever occurred?

But now, after years of being freed from the toxic environment, she fully realized for the first time that they had never cared.

And it hurt.

Her eyes remained pressed shut, trying to hold back the tears threatening to fall.

Fists curled, and she struggled to muster her courage, trying to fight the instinct to run. She shakily stepped forward, pulling herself away from her hiding spot, and opened her eyes. She stared out at her family, trying to force herself to step forward again.

Mercy was the first to notice her, pink eyes slipping away from Justin and onto her. A sly smirk spread across her face, hands going to her hips.

"Speaking of Yveltal," Mercy said in a silky tone. "Looks like the little bride was eavesdropping."

Mairin gulped, watching as several sets of eyes turned to face her. Pink and amber, Justin's gaze looking pained, her parents' unreadable.

"Hello Mairin," Her father said, his tone unchanging. He offered her a small smile, before it flickered away. Mairin watched him– he knew that she had overheard what they had been saying. She stared at him, as if hoping he's something more. An apology, an excuse– something.

He said nothing more.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready?" Mercy asked, taking a step towards Mairin. She stumbled back, slightly startled to find she was now the same height as her sister– so many memories featured her sister glaring down at her that it was almost disconcerting. "I mean, you're not even wearing any makeup! You'll need something to cover up that hideous face of yours– we wouldn't want the groom running off in fear now, would we?"

Tears stung Mairin's eyes, and she gritted her teeth, trying to hold them back.

"Mercy, leave her alone," Justin growled. "It's her wedding day."

"Did a little advice ever hurt anyone, Justin?" Mercy asked. "And I don't see anything wrong with my question– why is she out here?"

"I–" The words seemed to get stuck in her throat. "I... I wanted to talk to Dad..."

"Oh?" He looked mildly surprised as she said this, her father blinking. "Why is that?"

Mairin opened her mouth, vision blurring in. Her heart was aching, the words refusing to leave her mouth. She closed her eyes, trying to hold back her tears as she forced the words from her.

"I w-wanted to know if you'd– if you would–" The words hurt as they left her throat. She sputtered for a moment, before they rushed from her all at once, voice almost a squeak. "–I was going to ask you if you'd walk me down the aisle."

Her eyes were glued to her feet as she said this, fingers shaking, a sticky feeling in her heart.

Her father blinked, then shrugged. "I suppose I could."

Mairin gritted her teeth. "But... b-but..." She looked up at him, amber eyes blazing. "S-seeing how you've never been here for me before... I... I don't think I want you here today. Clearly it'd be better you'd... if you'd just all leave."

It hurt, saying those words hurt so much, but she kept her gaze level with them, tears lining the brim of her eyes.

"It looks like the accident managed to say something smart for once," Mercy said quietly.

It was at this point Mairin couldn't keep back the tears anymore. They spilled over, a sob becoming caught in her throat, and she turned. Without waiting for a reply– for whatever excuse or insult would come next– Mairin ran. She bolted down the hallways, tears falling, stumbling her way as her feet caught on the hem of her dress.

Her vision was a blur, the heaviness in her heart feeling like iron. She didn't even try to hold back the tears anymore, the tears falling down her cheeks as she ran. She didn't know where she was going– the church wasn't the biggest, so she simply pressed on.

After several minutes she stumbled to a stop, pressing up against the wall as she stood there. She wiped away several tears on her sleeve, before stopping herself. She was shaking– and she didn't know what to do. She wanted to scream, cry, and breakdown all at the same time. She tried to tell herself that everything was over now– that they were gone– but that was half of the pain. Finally she sank down, drawing up her knees, crying even harder than before.

"...Aunty Mairin? Are you okay?"

Mairin hiccuped, looking up at the blurry image of her niece. Hope's amber eyes were full of concern and confusion, her father's white Floette hovering by her side. Hope was wearing a beautiful sky blue dress, her hair drawn up with a flower headband resting on her head. Mairin tried to smile, wiping away several more tears.

"I'm fine, Ledyba," Mairin whispered, hating to lie to her own niece, but she didn't need to be drawn into this mess. "Just... overwhelmed..."

"Dad says you should be happy today," Hope whispered, kneeling at Mairin's side. "You are happy, right? Today is your special day."

Mairin took in a struggling breath. "Y-yes, it is..." It was her wedding day. She was going to be married to Alain. She was going to be fine... everything was fine... "I'm just nervous, that's all Ledyba..."

Her parents had never cared...

Mairin bit her lip as more tears filled her eyes, and she tried to hold them back.

"Mairin!"

Justin's voice once more echoed through the halls, though it was only pure concern in his voice this time. She couldn't bring herself to look up, not wanting anyone to see her tears. She could hear his footsteps approaching though, his Floette letting out a concern call as her trainer approach.

"Dad, what's wrong?" Hope asked.

"...Mairin..." He placed a hand on her shoulder, and she looked up at him helplessly. "I... I know you said to leave, b-but– but I just wanted to make sure you're okay first and–"

Mairin shook her head. "Not you..." She muttered. "You can stay, I... I want you to stay, please..."

Justin's gaze softened. "Mairin, I'm... I'm so sorry. I tried, I tried to get her to leave before you could see and..." His hand tightened. "I'm sorry, for never doing anything."

Again she shook her head. "You defended me... no one else has done that..."

A sharp pain hit her heart– no one in her family had defended her before.

"I should have done something sooner," Justin muttered, mostly to himself. "I just never wanted to get involved but... but I let you get hurt because of that," He closed his eyes. "I'm sorry."

Mairin grabbed her brother's hand. "Thank you..."

Silence fell between them, Hope uncertainly glancing between her father and aunt.

"Everything is okay, right?" She asked urgently. "The wedding is still going to happen?"

"Yes Ledyba," Mairin whispered– nothing would stop her from becoming bound to her new family. "I can't have a flower girl without a wedding."

A new family– Alain was going to become her new family. Mairin blinked, a new family and a new name... that's what she needed. Some of the heaviness in her heart lifted somewhat, and she looked up at Justin.

There was still concern in his amber eyes, but he look much more relaxed than before. "Come on," He said, and he pulled Mairin to her feet. "You have a half an hour until the ceremony. Let's get you back and make sure... everything is ready."

Make sure she didn't look like she had just been crying.

"Justin?" Mairin asked quietly.

"Yes?"

"...Would you walk me down the aisle?"

Justin gave her a gentle smile. "I'd be honored to, Mairin."

Some of the tension drained away from Mairin's muscles, and she pulled herself away from Justin. She smoothed out the dress of her skirt, taking in several deep breaths. She couldn't imagine how she looked– Serena was going to kill her. Yet at the same time... she felt light. For a moment the intimidation of the wedding did seem as pressing– instead the future seemed nothing but inviting.

She was going to be okay.

"Do you want me to go find Alain?" Justin asked.

Mairin quickly shook her head. "Arceus no– he has enough on his shoulders at the moment. I don't want to throw this on him."

"Mairin it wouldn't be like that–"

"Justin, please?" Mairin asked– she knew how Alain would react. This was his wedding day just as much as it was hers– he had a right to enjoy the day without the pressures of what had just happened. She would tell Alain, but after the wedding was over.

Once everything was better.

"Okay..." Justin relented, sounding slightly uncertain. "Hope, why don't you take Mairin back with the bridesmaids? So they can make sure she's ready."

"Sure thing Dad!" Hope chirped. She grabbed Mairin's arm, and lead her through the church. Mairin glanced back at her brother, who was running a hand through his blonde hair.

Mairin smiled, grateful that he was here.

Mairin's heart was pounding, and she stared at the doors. Her heart was hammering– louder than it had been all day. Her hands clutched the bouquet– a bundle of yellow roses and blue lilacs. She stared down at the flowers, trying to master her racing emotions.

"I can't to this..." Mairin whispered. "I'm not ready."

"You'll be fine," Justin said. He was standing by her side, giving her a smile. Mairin simply shook her head, backing away from the door.

"No– I'm not ready," Mairin muttered, voice slightly strained. "I c-can't–"

Mairin fell silent as she felt a slight tug on her dress. She turned, finding Hope standing behind her. She was watching her aunt with sharp eyes, arms crossed unhappily. Hooked around her arm was a basket of flower petals, Justin's Floette floating next to her, alongside Kade. Mairin was startled by the scowl on innocent Hope's face, and for a moment she felt her panic slip away.

"You love Alain, don't you?" She asked, voice cold. But instead of looking harsh, as she was probably going for, the nine-year old looked absolutely adorable with her fierce scowl. Under any other circumstances Mairin probably would have laughed, but instead she just stared. "Don't you?"

"Of c-course I do!" Mairin said, slightly put off by her little 'Ledyba's' suddenly attitude change.

"And I know that he loves you– which means you two have to get married!" Hope declared, and she pointed towards the doors. "He makes you happy, and you have been sad enough for your special day– so you go in there and be happy!" She paused for a moment. "And make him my uncle, I've always needed one of those."

Justin chuckled at this, while Mairin smiled.

"She's right you know– both of you want this– so what should be holding you back?" Justin asked.

"Wh-what if something goes wrong, what if things end up like between you and Courtney–?" Mairin asked, her panic resurging.

Justin grabbed her arm. "Mairin– most people would give the world to have someone look at them the way Alain looks at you. He's the one you want, isn't he?"

"Y-yes–"

Justin smiled. "Then there's nothing to worry about."

Mairin hesitated for a moment, as if her mind was trying to scramble for some other excuse. She opened her mouth, but before she could say another word music started playing. Mairin stiffened up, staring at the wooden doors with wide eyes. The music kept playing from within the chapel, muffled and steady.

Justin offered her his arm. "Come on," He said softly. "It's time."

With shaky hands she placed her arm on top of his. Mairin took in a deep breath, and they turned to face the door. Out of the corner of her eye she could see Hope standing behind them, one hand in her basket of flowers, an eager look on her face. Kade was standing next to her, carrying a small box in his mouth. Mairin closed her eyes for a moment.

And then the doors swung open.

The organ music was now blaring loudly, washing over Mairin along with a wave of cold air. She hesitated for a moment, before opening her eyes. She could see the rows of people– those who had come out to attend her special day– looking back at her. She saw Bisharp and Zach, the two Pokemon having opened the doors for them. They were currently standing off to the side, heads held high as they waiting for her. She was still for a moment, before Justin urged her forward.

She stepped into the chapel, heart fluttering nervously with each step. She peered around at the many eyes watching her. She quickly pulled her gaze away, looking down at the ground for a moment before once more peering out. Time seemed to be going slow as she walked forward, the music echoing in her mind.

Mairin could see Alain's Metagross at the organ, using his psychic energy to press down the many keys. Mairin remembered how she had laughed when Alain had said that Metagross should be their organist– she had thought he had been joking. It turns out that having the mind of a supercomputer made one very adapt at learning music. It was quite the sight to see, but somehow it felt right.

Her eyes drifted away from the organ, and up towards the front of the chapel, the elevated stands gleaming in the light coming from the stained glass window of Xerneas. Mairin could see Serena standing as her maid of honor, smiling at her encouragingly. Near her stood the bridesmaids– Bonnie, Charizard, Weavile, Bébé, Piper, and Zola.

While the Pokemon weren't in full dresses like Bonnie, they were all wearing green ribbons laced with blue flowers. The Pokemon bridesmaids weren't standing still: Charizard had her wings flared open with excitement, tail swinging side to side. Weavile kept curling her claws, uncertainly poking at the ribbons on her. Bébé gracefully spun around, the Florges scattering a gentle Petal Dance across the room. Zola was curled up into a ball, the Sandslash nervously hiding. Piper kept pecking at Zola, the Pidgeot trying to get her teammate to look out at the crowd.

Mairin couldn't have asked for better bridesmaids.

Her eyes flickered to the other side of the chapel, where the boys were. There was Ash– Alain's best man– his usual cheerful grin on his face as he watched her approach. The groomsmen were near him– Clemont as stiff as a statue, Chespie beaming happily while wearing a bowtie, Alain's Tyranitar looking stoic as ever, with Unfezant perched on Tyranitar's shoulder.

Mairin was now half way across the aisle, and she fixated her gaze straight ahead, right where the altar stood at the top of the steps. Professor Sycamore was smiling down at her, and while he was no priest, as the League Professor he was legally able to perform marriages. Perhaps the scientist looked a bit out of place at the front of the chapel, but Alain and Mairin would have no one else be the one to bind them together.

Finally Mairin let her gaze fall onto Alain.

His bright blue eyes were gleaming as they made eye contact, a gentle smile spread on Alain's face. His gaze was locked right on her, taking in her whole form as she approached. Mairin barely noticed how she stopped shaking as soon as Alain was in her sights, her steps becoming steadier as she and Justin moved forward.

The fear seemed to be drained from her– because she slowly beginning to realize that she wasn't moving towards an uncertain future– she was moving towards Alain. He was nothing but familiar, nothing but safety. Her uneasy expression slowly grew to a real smile, and Justin had to increase his pace to keep up with her growing strides.

It was strange how something could be so swift and slow at the same time. It felt like it had taken mere seconds for her to reach the base of the steps, but every moment of it was so vivid, that nothing escaped her view as it played out. Justin's arm was slowly pull away from hers, and he stepped back to join his daughter. Kade bolted forward, the Flareon at Mairin's heels, the box with their rings in his mouth. Mairin stood there for a moment, watching as Alain descended the steps, hand held out towards her.

The tremble in her limbs was back as she reached out for him, his familiar fingers slipping between hers just as they always did. He guided her up onto the first step, before withdrawing his hand and offering her his arm in a more traditional fashion. She placed her hand over his, her arm resting on top as his, and then they slowly began to climb the few steps. She glanced at Alain for a moment, his gaze locked straight ahead. Mairin felt a flush fill her cheeks, and for a moment she felt like she was fifteen again, watching Alain as he battle. She too then turned her gaze forward, steps slow as her heart started to race.

Kade was suppose to be a step behind them, they had explained to the Flareon what his role as ring bearer would be. But with the excitement of the moment, the Flareon just couldn't linger back behind his slow parents. With an excited chitter Kade raced forward, bolting past Mairin, rushing his box with the rings to the altar. Mairin would have found this adorable– but Kade's sudden rush forward had twisted Mairin's dress as he ran by, causing the hem to become entangled in her feet.

The pull of the gut, the sense of weightlessness as her feet slipped from under her– Mairin was well acquainted with the sensation of falling. But of all the times, and of all the days, it had to be now. The rush of embarrassment raced through her even before she could even hit the ground, frustration and shame gnawing at her as she fell. The stairs with the foreign dress and shoes made attempting to catch herself an impossible task– not that would even change the fact that she had tripped while walking down the aisle.

Alain's strong hands were around her arms before she could get far though, and Mairin was dimly reminded of a rain-soaked Alain as she saw him peering down at her. One hand grasping her wrist, the other on her shoulder to keep her from crashing down the stairs. His hand shifted to her back, slowly steadying her even with her leaning back. Alain was smiling, a gleam in his eyes as if this had been expected. Mairin watched him for a moment, so comfortable in his arms that she nearly forgot that she had been moments away from crashing into the ground. Alain just looked so happy, so content, and for a moment it didn't even feel like they had a crowd watching.

He pulled her up slightly, before leaning down so their faces were close. She could feel his warm breath as he watched her, and he shifted her so he could whisper in her ear.

"You know," His voice was soft, like a gentle breeze. "You just keep falling for me, don't you?"

Mairin flushed, and before she could form any reply he pulled her back up onto her feet. She took a moment to find her balance, which Alain used to let his hand find her fingers. Once she was stable Alain continued on, the two of them heading up the last few steps as if nothing had occurred.

There was Kade, the Flareon sitting up on the altar, ears back. He let out an apologetic whimper, and Mairin stroked the top of his head as they reached him to let him know that it was alright. He thumped his bushy tail happily as Alain took the rings from him, then the Flareon raced off towards Chespie.

Mairin pulled away from Alain's side, their hands remaining interlocked as they turned to face each other as Professor Sycamore stepped forward. Mairin looked up at Alain, a fiery warmth in her chest. The blaze seemed to drive everything from her– the fear, the embarrassment and the pain– the only emotions remaining in her was the fierce love she felt for Alain. Nothing felt more right than her standing right here, him across from her.

His hand pulled away as he gently opened the box with their rings. The two silver rings glittered, Alain's a simple silver band, while Mairin's was topped with a gorgeous emerald gem. She took Alain's ring from him, while he gently cradled her left hand in his.

"A ring has no beginning or end," Alain said, voice soft, yet it carried through the chapel. "And just as my love for you is, Mairin, it shall carry on forever."

He carefully slipped the ring onto her finger, the metal cool against her skin.

Mairin fingered Alain's wedding band a moment longer, before taking his hand into hers. She was trembling slightly as she placed the ring on, but managed to find her voice. "A ring is something you can always have with you, just like how I will always be by your side, and that as long as I live, you will never be alone."

As soon as the ring was on Alain took no time to admire it– swiftly taking both of Mairin's hands into his once more.

With the ring ceremony now done, Professor Sycamore stepped forward. Mairin gave him the tiniest glance, before returning her gaze right back to Alain. The warmth in her chest was fierce, burning brighter than ever while her heart raced. This was the moment she had been dreaming of since she was a child. A tremble took to her hands, and Alain ran his thumbs across the back of her hands. He was simply smiling at her, and that was what held Mairin's attention. Not his tux or his blue tie, nor the fact that he had taken some effort with his hair today, just the unfading smile on his face.

Professor Sycamore was talking, but Mairin barely took in his words. Instead she glanced out towards those who had come to watch their marriage. It wasn't a large audience– but it was full of those she wanted here. She could see Sophie, Cosette, and Sina; all smiling up at her. There was Bonnie's father in the back, and Astrid on the edge of a pew. Mairin was surprised when her eyes met Steven's– he had been unsure if his champion duties would allow him to come.

Mairin pulled her eyes towards the front of the chapel– were the first row sat empty with the exception of Hope and Justin. Mairin's heart twisted, this was where her and Alain's family were suppose to be sitting. Seeing it nearly empty... hurt. Mairin's eyes locked with Justin, who gave her a nod. Hope gave Mairin a tiny wave, grinning.

She looked back towards Alain– neither of their parents were here. His had died years before, while she had sent her own away. But... but Mairin felt fine. Things were going to be okay, and perhaps it was better that it was this way. She squeezed Alain's hands, realizing that everything she needed was right here.

"Mairin Floraison," As Professor Sycamore spoke her name she was snapped away from her thoughts. "Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, in good times and bad, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"

Mairin could feel everyone watching her, but her gaze remained on Alain. Her heart was thumping, but there was no hesitation in her voice as she spoke.

"I do."

Two words, so simple, but so impactful. She felt Alain's hands tighten as Professor Sycamore turned towards him.

"Alain Vide," He didn't even look at the professor as he spoke, blue eyes locked on Mairin. "Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, in good times and bad, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"

Alain's eyes were gleaming as he looked down at Mairin.

"No."

The single word sent chills down Mairin's back, her whole form freezing up. Swift mutters swept the audience, and Professor Sycamore blinked. Mairin stood there for a moment, mind trying to take in what he had just said. She tried to pull back, but Alain's hands were tight around hers. He stepped closer to Mairin, one of his hands going to her waist and pulling her in close. He leaned his head down, their faces nearly touching.

"Not 'until death do we part'," Alain said, almost fiercely as he held her close. "I won't accept that. I want you forever and always."

The momentary fear that had built up in Mairin melted away all at once, and she relaxed in his grasp.

"Y-yes," Mairin stuttered out. "Forever and always."

Professor Sycamore smiled. "...In that case, I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may now–"

Alain tugged her forward, closing the gap between them, lips pressing together.

"Um... kiss the bride," Professor Sycamore finished, chuckling as Alain and Mairin embraced.

Mairin didn't hear him, nor the cheers as she and Alain kissed. She was too caught up in the moment, arms wrapped around her husband as the kissed continued. The feelings rushing through her didn't end, even as they pulled back, Alain looking down at her. Her eyes were gleaming as she looked at her husband, a smile across their faces.

She was married.

Alain didn't even give her a moment to embrace this fact, scooping her up bridal style, carrying her down the steps of the chapel.

What happened after that was honestly mostly a blur for Mairin– everything taking place so quickly, her bursting emotions racing through her. Faces of those that approached them merged together, the many congratulations and smiles becoming one. What Mairin remembered was Alain's warm hand around hers, and the tingling on her lips.

Chespie had wrapped the happy couple up in his giant arms, before the rest of their Pokemon had raced to join the hug. Kade managed to worm his way to the mass of Pokemon, slinking up into Mairin's arms. She had planted a kiss on the Pokemon's forehead, and Kade had then insisted on stay on either her or Alain's shoulder the rest of the night.

Cake, pictures, thanking everyone for coming– Mairin barely registered any of it. A giddy feeling was about Mairin, making sure Alain was right next to her the whole day, hands entangled in each other. It didn't take long for her face to start hurting from her unfading smile, and not even the pain could make it die down. Every few minutes she'd press up against Alain, just to make sure that this was real.

His kisses were enough to confirm that.

"Naught!" Chespie cried later that day, at this point the reception was dragging on. Mairin hadn't seen much of her starter since the beginning of the reception, so it was a welcoming sight. He drew up behind the married couple, throwing glares at those who lingered near. And as a towering fighting type, it didn't take long for people to back away. "Ches!"

Chespie's face grew friendly again, and he happily began to nudge Mairin and Alain towards the doors. She shot her starter a questioning look, to which he responded by picking both of them up, and carrying them out the doors despite their protesting.

"Where is Charizard when you need her," Alain grumbled, having been thrown over Chespie's shoulders... well, shell, while the Chesnaught gently carried his trainer in his arms. Alain was holding onto on of Chespie's large spikes so he didn't fall, looking back at the guests following them.

Chespie grinned.

"I'd bet she's in on this," Mairin said, happily settling into Chespie's arms. Her feet were killing her anyways, and she'd give just about anything to finally get out of this dress. Despite having been by their side the whole day, Kade was currently nowhere near the couple.

Chespie carried the two of them outside, where Mairin was able to spot a crowd of familiar Pokemon. Their teams were gathered around Charizard, Tyranitar and Piper doing their best to hide the lizard from sight. Alain was deposited onto the ground in front of them, while Mairin was carefully set down next to him.

The Pokemon let out an assortment of greetings– roars, rumbles, chitters, and chips– their cries filling the air. Alain pushed himself to his feet, and the Pokemon pulled away from Charizard happily.

"Oh Arceus..." Alain muttered as he saw his starter, paling. The Pokemon had taken all of their ribbons, bowties, and flowers; placing and lacing them all across Charizard. She was a flowery nightmare, lilacs dangling from poorly tied ribbons. A wreath of flowers had even been taken from the wedding, hooked around Charizard's horns. Charizard was grinning happily, and spun around.

That's when they noticed the clump of cans tied to Charizard's tail, and the words 'just married' crudely written across her wings Oran berry juice. Alain stared, while Mairin let out a laugh.

"Looks like we have our getaway car!" Mairin grinned, and their Pokemon let out a happy calls.

"What did Charizard ever do to you..." Alain whispered to Chespie, who gave Alain a playful shove.

"Let's go now!" Mairin said excitedly. "I'm sick of walking around anyways."

"But the reception was suppose to go until–" Alain began, and Mairin shut him up with a quick peck on the lips. He flushed slightly at being interrupted.

"Do you honestly think they want to be here all night?" Mairin muttered, gesturing out to their guests that had followed them outside. "It's our wedding day, and I'd like to spend that time with you."

"Um... I mean–" Alain stuttered, and their Pokemon started laughing. Mairin's grinned widened, and she turned out towards their guests.

"Party's over!" She cried, cupping her hands to her mouth. Chespie pushed Alain and Mairin towards Charizard, who lowered herself onto all fours so the newlyweds could mount her. Alain scooped Mairin up, placing her on Charizard's back before climbing on himself. Mairin felt his hands wrapping around her waist, and she leaned back against his chest.

"Mairin!" Serena's voice called out as Charizard opened her wings. Mairin peered back, afraid for a moment that her wedding planner and maid of honor would be upset at her sudden escape.

But of course this was Serena, and there was only a smile on her face.

"You gotta throw the bouquet!" She called out to her. "Before you go!"

Mairin looked down at the bouquet in her hands, then out towards them. Mairin grinned, and then chucked the bouquet of flowers as hard as she could. She knew that she was suppose to do it blindly over her shoulder, but hey, this was her wedding.

Mairin had been aiming the bouquet towards Bonnie– since she was the one always trying to pair everyone up since she was a kid, but Mairin's throwing skills weren't the best. The bouquet went over Bonnie's head, and landed straight into Serena's hands. The woman blinked, clearly having not planned on catching it, and Mairin grinned.

"See you at your wedding then!" Mairin called out to her friend, before wrapping her arms around Charizard. "Fly Charizard, get us out of here!"

"She's my Pokemon–" Alain began, but the Charizard took to Mairin's words, leaping up into the air. Alain's arms tightened around Mairin as they rose into the sky– ribbons and petals falling from Charizard as the wind tore at them. Mairin pressed herself up against Alain as the reception became a blur below them, nothing but open skies ahead.

"Where to then?" Mairin asked.

"Home," Alain said simply, placing his chin on the top of her head. She scowled– knowing he was just doing this to remind her who was taller.

"The lab?" Mairin muttered– Alain had taken to living over the lab since he had moved out of Sycamore's lab. Mairin had been more than happy to get her own apartment though, sick of living where she worked.

"No, home," Alain said, offering nothing else. Charizard flared her wings open more, catching an updraft. The wind tore at them, the temperature around them dropping.

"Take that Bonnie," Mairin muttered under her breath.

"Huh?"

Mairin tugged at the sleeves of her dress. "I told Bonnie I'd want the longer sleeves– it's cold up here!"

Alain wrapped his arms around hers, then whispered in her ear. "We'll just have to fix that, won't we?"

"Alain!"

"Charizard, think you can fly faster?" Alain asked, and the lizard put on a suddenly burst of speed, wings flapping.

"...Now I'm colder..." Mairin muttered as the wind increased, though she was smiling. Alain simply hugged her closer.

"So... where are we heading anyways?" Mairin asked. She wasn't sure how long they had been flying, but her fingers were starting to go numb from the chill of the ride.

"I said we're heading home," Alain said– the same thing he's been saying the whole trip.

"I recall that we don't have a 'home'," Mairin said. "You live at the lab, and I've been crashing at Bonnie's since I moved out of my apartment."

It wasn't that they hadn't considered that they'd need a place to truly call their own once they were married– Alain had brought it up once or twice, and Mairin had of course forgotten in the havoc of the wedding planning with Serena. And now as they flew out across Kalos, it had once again popped into Mairin's mind. The only place they had to go was the lab– which wasn't where Mairin would want to spread their first days as newlyweds.

She could hear the smile in Alain's voice. "You worry too much."

"I'm pretty sure you're the one that worries too much," Mairin replied, pressing up against his chest. She peered up at him, his gaze fixated straight ahead. The wind blew at his hair, tuxedo wrinkled. Mairin didn't even want to guess what state her dress was in– but then again she was the one that wanted to fly on Charizard right away.

They were flying across Cyllage City, the ocean spread out towards the west, the sky turning orange as the sun dipped low on the horizon. The cloudless sunset was breathtaking, especially when they were racing across the sky. She could see the beautiful beaches and cliffs of route 8 in the distance as they skimmed the edges of the city.

"You're right, I do worry too much," Alain said, ruffling her hair. "And you forget things too much."

She scowled. "Don't do that, I'm not a kid."

He chuckled, but ignored this comment. "I'm just saying that you and Serena were caught up in the wedding plans, and so it's no surprise that we haven't considered this until now. Well, I've been thinking on it– because two certain women didn't seem to like having me involved with the plans for my own wedding."

"Well, if I recall correctly... 'I think black wouldn't be a bad option for the wedding– it goes with just about every color and looks quite nice'!" Mairin quoted, holding her hands up dramatically. She and Charizard then laughed, and Alain rolled his eyes.

"I'm just saying that while you were busy with the wedding, I decided that I thought I should do something as well," Alain said, his hands reaching forward to find hers. "I hope you like it, and if not... well, we can figure it out later then."

And with that Charizard swooped down, heading towards the mountainous lands on the end of Cyllage City. Mairin opened her mouth, but she didn't have anything to say, so she simply stayed silent to see what Alain was going to show her.

The small cottage soon came into view– the modest little place the only building in sight. There was no lawn– simply the wilds coming right up to the doorstep. Mairin could see a small little garden on the side of the home, a porch winding all the way around the cottage. While the home most likely sat within the borders of Cyllage City, the town was out of sight. Mairin could hear the ocean in the distance, and the calls of bird Pokemon.

"It's not fully paid off or anything," Alain said quickly as Charizard landed outside of the house, folding her wings to the side. "But I have everything set up so that all payments would go smoothly. I know it's not big or anything, but I thought it might be a nice place to start off–"

"It's perfect," Mairin said softly. "Oh Alain, you didn't have to go house hunting on your own–"

Alain slipped off of Charizard. "You've always wanted your own place, but don't make a final opinion until you at least see the inside," Alain said as he offered her his hand, and he gave her a small bow, grinning. "So, my lovely bride, may I?"

Mairin placed her hand in his, and he helped her off of Charizard's back. The lizard's wings flared open as soon as she dismounted, and she leapt right back into the sky. Mairin peered at Charizard as she flew off, much faster now that she didn't have any passengers.

"Where is she going?" Mairin asked.

Alain smiled. "With Bonnie. I asked her to watch all of our Pokemon for the night– her daycare will be able to handle them all."

"Is Kade aware of this?" Mairin asked, knowing just how... fired up the Flareon could be about being left behind.

"...Bonnie's problem," Alain said swiftly, and he pulled a key out of the inside pocket of his suit, handing it to Mairin. "Shall we go inside?"

And with that they approached the small cottage. It had light yellow siding, and a dark roof. Mairin had been in love with the place from the distance, but she couldn't help but let out a small squeal at the planters that hung around the porch and at the base of the windows– which had green shutters! The only word Mairin could bring to describe the house was adorable, and Mairin knew just how much Bébé would love the gardens, Chespie as well. There was plenty of open air for Piper to fly, and Zach could discharge as much electricity as he wanted freely in the wide fields around the house– which would also be perfect for Zola to dig about in. Mairin could only hope that the insides could handle an energetic fire type– so Kade could be happy as well.

She slipped the key into the lock– happily noting that the door was also green. Mairin turned the key, eyes flickering down to the wedding ring on her finger. She grinned to herself– basking in the fact that she was married. To Alain.

She pushed the door open. She couldn't see too much from the doorway, but she recognized some of the furniture from her apartment that Alain had offered to store for her. But before she could step inside Alain grabbed her waist, scooping her up bridal style– which was fitting– but it still startled her. She yelped, the key falling from her grasp as she was lifted up into Alain's arms.

He somehow managed to catch the key as it fell with two fingers– not being able to do much more as he held her. Mairin fumed to herself at the fact that he was slick enough to do that, before setting into his arms. She still glowered up at him, though in a playful way.

"I'm capable of walking, you know?"

He smirked. "Usually."

"Hey!" She slapped his chest.

He laughed, his smirk relaxing into a smile. "Besides, it's tradition for the husband to carry his bride across the threshold of their home. You wanted a more traditional wedding, didn't you?"

She answered him by relaxing into his arms, and Alain stepped into the cottage, careful to make sure her dress didn't get snagged in the doorway. Mairin looked around at her new home– which was just as beautiful and modest on the inside as it was outside. It was a bit bare– which was not unexpected. Alain had actually done more with the place that Mairin had thought he could for a place that had just been bought. She let herself look over the house, before looking up at Alain.

He smiled, leaning down and kissing her. Mairin had lost count of how many times they had kissed today... which she saw as a good thing.

He pulled back, still cradling her in his arms, and for the first time Mairin truly mulled over the events of the day– with the excitement and stress now in the past.

She was married– she and Alain were officially married. A new chapter of her life had opened up, one of just her and Alain, the step in their relationship she had always dreamed of making. The man that she loved with every fiber of her being was officially hers, and she was his. Husband, wife... it now applied to them. They were one now, not to be separated. Her heart swelled– sealed to the one she saw as the perfect man.

But as she thought back on the wedding her smile faded, the more unpleasant memories of the day rising. Sending her parents away from the wedding, the realization of just how little they had cared for her, and the fact that they had brought Mercy...

Mairin closed her eyes, having been able to push her sister from her mind until now. She had only seen her for a few minutes, but her presence had been like a knife, cutting into her. That cut was now widening, as Mairin thought on her, shivers racing through her.

"I mean, you're not even wearing any makeup! You'll need something to cover up that hideous face of yours– we wouldn't want the groom running off in fear now, would we?"

There was never a neutral word from Mercy– everything was meant to hurt. Mairin tried to push the thoughts from her mind, but they seemed to be stronger than her will. Mercy had been right– Mairin hadn't worn makeup at her wedding. She had never before in her life, so why now? Mairin's insides shriveled up, had she really been that lazy? Couldn't even spend an extra minute to look her best at her wedding? She turned away as Alain gently sat her down, lost in her thoughts.

Her fingers dug into the mattress– someone as amazing as Alain... and he had chosen her? Not that she'd ever want anyone else– but why would he want her? He was kind, brave, strong... everything that she wasn't. She couldn't even carry a key without dropping it... she was a klutz, less than pretty– not someone to spend the rest of one's life with.

Alain made her so happy, but how could she do the same for him?

"Mairin?" Alain's voice snapped her from her intoxicating thoughts. His voice was so gentle, so concerned... just pure. "Mairn, what's wrong?"

She blinked a few times, everything jumping into focus. She noticed the tears streaming down her face, silent and steady. Her cheeks were wet, eyes stinging as she blinked, and she swiftly turned away from Alain, hands digging into the blanket of the bed. Of course this would do nothing– he had already seen her tears.

"Mairin..." He sounded so worried, but she didn't offer a reply. "Please, talk to me..." He hesitated. "I know today's been a long day and you... you don't have to–"

"Why me?" Mairin croaked out.

He was silent, not sure of what to make of her words. She turned to face him, amber eyes watering.

"What do you mean?" He asked after a moment.

"Of everyone in the world... of everyone you could possibly want to be your forever..." Mairin whispered. "Why me?"

There was a flicker of nervousness in his gaze. "You... you did want this, right?"

"Of course I do," Mairin whispered, and a sob began to escape her. "But why would you w-want me?"

Alain stared at her for a moment, surprise on his face at her words. He blinked, realization crossing his face, before his gaze hardened, scanning her. "...What happened, Mairin?"

She shook for a moment, and threw herself forward, burying her head into his chest. Her bottled up emotions from her encounter with her parents spilled over, sobs escaping her. She tried to speak, tried to explained what she witnessed, but the only word to escape her was a strangled: "M-mercy."

This was all Alain needed to hear, his arms seizing her in a protective embrace. She was pressed against him, his muscles tensed. "Today?"

"M-mom and Dad b-brought her," Mairin whispered. "They... they just brought her! They knew I didn't want her there, th-they knew how much she hurts me, and– and–" She closed her eyes. "Alain, th-they don't care, they never– they never really wanted m-me– she was always r-right and–"

His fingers dug into her shoulders. "She wasn't right, Mairin, don't dare believe any of her words for a second..." He paused for a moment. "...Why didn't you tell me about this sooner, Mairin?"

She squeezed her eyes shut. "It's m-my problem... you shouldn't have to d-deal with it..."

But by breaking down right now, she was forcing this upon him.

He pulled her back, forcing her to gaze into his burning blue eyes. "Mairin, I do not want to hear that ever again. You are my– my wife– and you never have to face anything alone from now on," He swiftly pulled her back into a hug, a look of bitterness on his face as he thought of Mercy. "You never have been alone... and neither have I. You've always been here for me, and Arceus help the soul that tries to keep me from you."

"But why me... why would you want someone so..."

"So what?" Alain spat. "There's nothing wrong with you– her words mean nothing Mairin!"

"But there is..." Mairin muttered. Her sister had always pointed out the worse in her– but they had never been lies. Mairin looked up at Alain, taking in a deep breath, trying to rein in her emotions. "You want to know what's wrong with me Alain?! The fact that I can't handle things on my own– that I always have to fall back on someone!"

"Mairin–" Alain began.

She pushed herself away from him. "Mercy wasn't wrong about me... my parents never cared about me... I'm a klutz, I can't even walk down the street without–!"

"That doesn't matter!"

"Well maybe it should!" Mairin cried back.

"Enough," Alain growled. "That's... that's enough Mairin!"

"Why? Because you know I'm right?" Mairin asked, tears still falling. "Because someone as perfect as you deserves someone better–"

His arms wrapped around her, pressing her against his chest again. She refused to look up at him, shivering as she tried to throw her sister's words out of her mind. But they didn't leave, echoing through her, pulling up every doubt she had ever buried. Alain let out a sigh, seemingly not knowing what to say.

"Maybe you are a bit clumsy Mairin," He whispered. "Always tripping and falling... but then you get right back up. You're so strong, never letting anything keep you down, you're always moving forward. I wish I could be like that, able to let go of the past and make the most of life..."

He planted a kiss on top of her head, rubbing her back.

"Mairin, it doesn't matter what they think. If they can't accept you, then they're the ones missing out on one of the most wonderful, kindest people I know... She's hurt you so much, but don't you dare for one moment believe that it's true or that you deserve it. You are strong, you are beautiful, and Mairin– you are wanted."

His body was tense as he held her close, as if afraid someone would tear her away.

"The only thing wrong with you is the fact that you can't see this yourself Mairin," He told her gently. "The fact that you don't see just how amazing you are... the fact that you keep dragging yourself down when in reality you're flying..."

He was so warm, as he held her close. Mairin pressed against him, eyes closed.

"You're right, maybe I do deserve someone else... because I don't deserve someone as wonderful as you... You think I'm perfect? Me?" He gave a small scoff. "No, no one deserves you, because there is no one out there that could be as wonderful to you as you are to them..." He looked into her eyes, blue eyes shining. "But yet you want me, someone like you wants me... why would you want someone like me?"

"Because I love you," Mairin whispered.

"Exactly. Mairin, perhaps I haven't said this enough to you– but I love you. I love you. That's why I want you to be my forever, Mairin– because I love you and only you," Alain said.

A warm feeling had returned to her chest. "That's the truth?"

"Yes," He said softly, and she could hear the conviction in his voice.

Mairin pressed up against him. "Tell me you love me again, please."

He smiled. "I think instead I'll show you."

He brought her in close, placing a kiss on her lips, arms entangling one another. Tears fell down Mairin's face, but this time they were tears of joy as her doubt was chased away. She loved Alain, and he loved her– so nothing else mattered. Not their faults, not their doubts, and not even the perfection they saw in each other.

They were meant to be together.

Outside the sun set.

And that night two souls became one.

Well, that's the end of Falling For You. This story was originally going to be a one-shot about Mairin being clumsy and have some romance on the side... instead it became a four-part romance story. xD It has been really fun to write, and it's almost sad to have it come to an end.

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!