Morning weddings were supposed to be calm; they were supposed to be quickly prepared; they were supposed to be on time.

At least, that's what Arthur had thought originally.

Instead, what he got was a very hectic morning, which was now chaotic, and loud. The aggravated screams of terror as red wine was pushed and spilled "accidently" on the floor; creating a sticky, strong scented puddle of what would now be called a stain.

Last night's "bridal shower" hadn't gone as planned either. Alfred being the self-proclaimed "'best' best friend ever" hired a group of about twelve – he was "informed" – legitimate strippers to the party. Arthur and Matthew were not pleased.

Back to the current situation at hand, Arthur was now running up and down the stairs – and although the aerobic workout for the day was nice – in search of the tie to his tuxedo.

"DAMN IT." He yelled, punching the wall beside him, which he yelped out again at the throbbing pain in his wrist due to the impact. When he did find it, however, the poor boy was too flustered by everything that he forgot how to tie it up.

"A-Arthur!" Matthew panicked, going up to him, "Calm down! Just breathe! Breathe!"

Matthew took the both ends of the tie; crossing the wide end under the narrow one, and over and under once more. Pulling the loop down, he tightened the knot and fixed it proportionately, patting himself on the back; a job well done.

Rushing to the mirror, Arthur carefully examined himself in the mirror, he straightened his back, "Everything has to be perfect."

"Now then…" Matthew walked over to the door, a few bags in hand, "We have to leave now. We're already fifteen minutes late!"

The day's plan was simple; get into the car, drive to the chapel, meet everyone there, and finish up with the ceremony and reception.

Francis had arrived at the chapel a good hour before everything was set up; and now that the ceremony was at the peak of beginning, and neither Matthew or Arthur anywhere in sight, he was starting to get a little worried.

To his left, he noticed Alfred conversing with some men near the hallway leading to the reception area. Hopefully he had some information about the tardiness of his fiancé.

As Francis approached them, the conversation grew louder.

"Dude! Make sure the music's LOUD when they enter the dance floor!"

"Sir, that isn't in ou-"

"JUST DO IT!" Alfred slapped the poor guy on the back, laughing as Francis finally reached him, "Hey! Where is everyone?"

"I was just about to ask you that!" Francis replied worriedly, "…D-do you think-"

"Don't worry about it!" Rolling his eyes Alfred snatched a mini sandwich from a waiter's tray as he passed by, "They'll be here soon!"

"FUCK. FUCK FUCK." Arthur yelled, fidgeting inside the limo, "WE'RE GOING TO BE LATE."

Oh, how he wished that the vehicle would move faster; or that he could some how teleport magically to the altar.

"We will be there on time, just calm down!" Matthew then unzipped a bag he brought earlier from Arthur's dorm. Quickly, he pulled something out and tossed it in Arthur's direction.

"You didn't." Arthur stared at the object on his lap in disbelief.

Matthew laughed, "I thought you were going to be nervous. So I brought you some extra support."

Lifting the item up so that it was at eye level, he smiled, "I missed you, Fluffy!"He held the unicorn close to his chest, memories of his and Francis' trip to the light show suddenly filling his mind. At least now he wasn't panicking! Pausing his cuddle session to look sternly at Matthew, Arthur narrowed his eyes, "You better not tell anyone about this."

"Yes, yes, yes." Matthew rolled the window down to let in some air, "whatever makes you happy."

"They are fifteen minutes late!"Francis yelled, grabbing Alfred with both arms and shaking him violently, "What if they had a car accident? What if it broke down? Alfred! Do something!"

"Dude! Chill!" Alfred pushed the frantic man away, to pull out his cell phone and start hitting buttons. Luckily, he had Arthur on speed dial; number three, "I'm calling right now. So just sit down, relax, and everything will be fine."

Back in the limousine, Arthur jumped up, the loud beeping of his ring tone sounding throughout the car.

"H-hello?"

"Arthur! Where are you? The ceremony's about to start!"

"We're pulling up right now. Just wait a few minutes."

"Hurry up!"

"I'm trying! They build too many fuckingstairs!"

As they finally reached the chapel, the ceremony was already starting – they could tell – by the obvious wedding march being played loudly on the church's organ.

Out of breath from all the exercise, Arthur stood beneath the entrance of the chapel. He began to walk – by himself – which many people would find completely pitiful and hopeless.

Not to Arthur.

His parent's had passed all too soon for them to give him most of their love; he thought it best to walk himself down the aisle.

Besides, it gave him a chance to assert his…

This thought was cut off when he noticed that at the end of the aisle was his soon-to-be husband, giving him that recognizable smile that he – although he would usually deny it – loved.

Before Arthur knew it, he was face to face with him; standing at the foot of the altar.

"A-ah..b-blah..e-ergh…h-hey!" Arthur managed to babble up, now already caught up in the moment and furthermore, embarrassed at his loss of words; he was a literature student! What was this?

It was then that Arthur decided that perhaps speaking only when asked to speak would help in favour of lessening his embarrassment.

The priest cleared his throat, "Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together here in the presence of these witnesses – and in the face of this company – to join together this couple in holy matrimony, which is commended to be honourable among all; and therefore – is not by any – to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly – but reverently, discreetly, advisedly and solemnly. Into this holy estate these two persons present now come to be joined. If any person can show just cause why they may not be joined together – let them speak now or forever hold their peace."

Arthur breathed a sigh of relief. If anything, he would've thought any one of his siblings would object; his fiancé was of French origin after all. He looked back, all of them smiling at him his eldest brother nodding quietly in approval.

Turning back the priest continued, "Marriage is the union of both parties in heart, body and mind. It is intended for their mutual joy – and for the help and comfort given on another in prosperity and adversity. But more importantly – it is a means through which a stable and loving environment may be attained."

Arthur smirked inwardly to himself; the moment they had met was the beginning of something strange, something he would've never experience, had he ended his life earlier.

"Through marriage…" The priest squint his eyes, adjusting his glasses to read out the text, "Francis Bonnefoy and Arthur Kirkland make a commitment together to face their disappointments – embrace their dreams – realize their hopes – and accept each other's failures. Francis and Arthur will promise one another to aspire to these ideals throughout their lives together – through mutual understanding – openness – and sensitivity to each other. We are here today because marriage is one of His most sacred wishes – to witness the joining in marriage of Francis and Arthur. This occasion marks the celebration of love and commitment with which these two persons begin their life together. And now – through me – you are joined together in one of these sacred bonds."

He took a moment to breathe, "This is a beginning and a continuation of their growth as individuals. With mutual care, respect, responsibility and knowledge comes the affirmation of each one's own life happiness, growth and freedom. With respect for individual boundaries comes the freedom to love unconditionally. Within the emotional safety of a loving relationship – the knowledge self-offered one another becomes the fertile soil for continued growth. With care and responsibility towards self and one another comes the potential for full and happy lives."

Arthur swore he heard Alfred immaturely laugh at "fertile" – he mentally face palmed.

"By gathering together all the wishes of happiness and our fondest hopes for this couple from all present here, we assure them that our hearts are in tune with theirs. These moments are so meaningful to all of us, for "what greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined together – to strengthen each other in all labour – to minister to each other in all sorrow – to share with each other in all gladness."

Arthur knew nothing could be better.

"This relationship stands for love, loyalty, honesty and trust, but most of all for friendship. Before they knew love, they were friends, and it was from this seed of friendship that is their destiny. Do not think that you can direct the course of love – for love, if it finds you worthy, shall direct you."

Friends. He remembered how he scoffed at the idea of even sharing his dorm with Francis; and now, he didn't even know where to start.

"Marriage is an act of faith and a personal commitment as well as a moral and physical union between two people. Marriage has been described as the best and most important relationship that can exist between them. It is the construction of their love and trust into a single growing energy of spiritual life. It is amoral commitment that requires and deserves daily attention. Marriage should be a life long consecration of the ideal of loving kindness – backed with the will to make it last. You may now exchange wedding vows."

Arthur froze. He had forgotten about that small bit of the ceremony. He had absolutely no clue on what to say. Arthur remembered spending all his time working and planning on the actual wedding that he had no time to sit down and write down his wedding vow!

Francis sensed this, and, taking Arthur's hands in his own, he laughed softly, "do not worry; I will speak for the both of us."

Clearing his throat, Francis took a few seconds to mentally prepare himself before he spoke.

"Many people spend their lives searching for their soul mate; their one true love. Some people are lucky to find the person that they can truly call the better half of themselves, while other people spend the rest of their lives searching and never finding. I am very happy to count myself among the lucky ones, because I certainly found you.

I love you, Arthur. Do you remember the very first day we met? From the very moment you fell from the sky, it was as if heaven sent me an angel. Our trip to the light show was one of the best days of my life, for you have become not just my lover and companion, but also my best friend."

At this point, Arthur began to tear up, all those memories beginning to one again surface and fill his mind.

"I want to be your lover, your companion and your best friend for the rest of my life. I promise to love and cherish you, to keep you close and with faithfulness, to support and help you in times of need, to make you laugh and to hold you when you cry, to hold you to the highest respect and honor as you so deserve for the rest of my life."

The ceremony continued on with the "I do's", the exchanging of rings, the whole package. To Arthur, he wished that this would finish up, and they could go straight to the hall and show off.

Francis assured him that they were almost done.

"May you always share with each other the gifts of love – be one in heart and in mind – may you always create a home together that puts in your hearts – love – generosity and kindness, in as much as Francis and Arthur have consented together in marriage before this company of friends and family and have pledged their faith – and declared their unity by giving and receiving a ring – are now joined.

You have pronounced yourselves husband and wife but remember to always be each other's best friend.

What – therefore – you have joined together – let no man put asunder."

They had, he wished to push that memory away. Arthur didn't want anyone to tear them apart again.

"And so, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you wed – and may your days be good and long upon the earth."

You may now kiss the bride.

Sure, they had kissed plenty of times before. But when Francis leaned over and casually brushed his lips over Arthur's, it was just as nostalgic as their first time; sparks flew, but it was almost too quick to end.

In the background, Arthur could hear the faint thunder of the crowd's cheers, Alfred's loud mouth screaming "AWH YEAH. YOU LIKE THAT!" while Matthew dragged Alfred to the back to shut him up.

And as Francis pulled back, eyes half-lidded with love, he picked up Arthur bridal style, and carried him out of the chapel and into the banquet hall. At least now, they could eat.

A lit up dance floor, tons of food supplied by Francis' father, their friends and family mingling and best of all actually getting along; despite the obvious cultural conflict.

Arthur sat at the head table; Francis had gone off to refill their drinks. Poking at the five star meal, he pondered on how lucky he was to make it up to this point in his life.

Francis came back soon after, placing Arthur's wine glass on the table before sitting himself down.

"Are you alright?" Francis laughed, "I would not want my wife to be upset on his wedding day…"

Blushing instantly at the word, he playfully punched his co-husband in the arm, pouting, "Not funny."

Arthur's scowl soon turned to a smile, "…at least not in public I won't admit it."

"Of course you would, Cher."

This small display of affection came to a halt, however, when a familiar female figure walked up to them, a box in hand.

"Hello" She smiled, genuinely, and held out the offering, "Here" She spoke, one worded answers; Arthur was confused.

"M-Ms. Jeanne?" He was shocked, yes, but that previous feeling of jealousy and hate wasn't evident. If anything, it was a feeling of bringing peace, of burying an ugly memory that would surely haunt the two in the future.

"How is the baby?" Arthur asked, small talk not small enough to hold a stable, concrete conversation. Luckily, she replied in a kind voice, "Fine, though at times it can be a handful. But that is not why I am here."

She cleared her throat, "I wish for you both to be happy." Jeanne started, "I hope that in the future, you will bear no grudge against me, for I am truly sorry for the pain this has caused you."

"It's alright." He could forgive her, in fact, he already had. She was just a girl after all! Someone's daughter for crying out loud! She did no wrong; like any human, she only wanted love, to give and to receive. He put this into perspective.

"Had we met under different circumstances, we may have been good friends."

"I believe so too." They laughed, together, something Arthur thought would never happen. To get along with someone who almost ruined his relationship with Francis; but of course, he knew, it wasn't completely her fault. There was indeed, partial blame.

"So, what will you do now?" He was curious, she had no where to run, no where to support herself. How funny it was, she was the heir of a multi-million dollar corporation, and suddenly, with a child, she lost it all.

"Perhaps I will travel, find a place where no one knows me; start life anew."

"Sounds like a good plan." He was happy for her; at least she could get away from a false life; away from all the hard work of dealing with money.

"I wish you luck."

The reception soon grew rampant, the dance floor flooded with people, dancing, jumping, grinding, one couple of which everyone kept a good distance from; if only Alfred weren't so "in touch" with his raging hormones.

After their first dance, Francis stopped in the middle of their second; a fast song. He looked around, warily, and pulled Arthur to the exit, whispering, "If we leave now, they will not notice."

Leave? Why would they leave their own reception? "…W-wha-?"

"Just follow." He pointed to his car, parked just to the side of a nearby metre. Thinking quickly, or possibly, not at all, Arthur slipped into the passenger's seat as Francis turned on the ignition and set the car in motion.

Francis' driving, Arthur noticed, was quite different from the usually calm and smooth route they usually took. But, when he began to recognize land features and buildings, he maybe sort of knew where this was going.

Francis took a sharp right turn, then, veering left he swerved into an empty parking space and stopped the car.

Not saying a word, Francis simply unlocked their doors and stepped outside, Arthur doing the same. Still confused, Arthur followed as Francis power-walked to the nearest elevator; of which his father had donated, a section in the contract his father had agreed to, for him to study at the school.

The high pitched beep of the elevator signalled its arrival, the doors slowly opening as the couple walked inside. Francis' silence remained consistent, which, in turn, made Arthur even more nervous than he already, was. In the panel of about five buttons, only one was lit; the singularity not helping in the least for his nerves.

Another beep and they had made it to the top. The doors slowly retracted, and they got out, now, they were both silent.

"W-wh….what is this?" Arthur stuttered, trying to regain his composure.

"That, is a tent." Francis stated obviously, "We will be spending our night here."

They entered the tent; a foam mattress placed neatly in the centre, typical also; familiar red petals scattered over the floor, and the light semi-sweet scent of designer candles on the side. The walls were plain, except for a clear mesh of a wall behind the mattress.

Sitting on the bed, Arthur looked through; from the part of the roof that they were currently sitting at, he leaned a bit, the canvas before him bore dots of bright lights, from moving cars to stop lights; the neon signs on late night coffee shops, and the stars in the sky.

Francis wasted no time joining Arthur on the bed, and directly pulling him into a hug, "You are nervous." He almost laughed; here they were, and he wasn't even sure if something was different. It wasn't like they hadn't done this before.

"…s-so?" What was the point in hiding it? He had already pushed his embarrassment over the edge at the reception; so now wasn't as big of a deal.

"Then…" Francis pushed Arthur down on the mattress, leant down and gave him a quick kiss on the lips, "How do you feel now?"

"Sleepy…" He lied. Too nervous to say what he actually wanted to. He was happy.

"Hmm? Alright then, you may sleep now." Francis turned over, his back facing Arthur, "Good night, Cher!"

Disappointed, Arthur sat up and blushed for about the hundredth time that night; what he was about to do, he would surely regret later. Or, at least, become even more embarrassed and hide himself in his closet until everyone – Francis – forgot.

He shook Francis' shoulder, honestly believing that his now husband was actually asleep, "I-I'm…not tired…"

Suddenly, he heard faint laughter, followed by Francis getting up and kissing Arthur once more – this time, much more heated, loving; complete.

It took no less than a minute for the couple to totally shed their clothing to the side and continue on with their business.

This time was different than the last; because they had more time, it was much easier to admire each other's bodies.

Francis immediately took notice of Arthur's small form beneath him; a pale but fair complexion, a thin waist; his face red with self-consciousness, striking green eyes bright with lust at the moment's plea. He couldn't have asked for more.

In comparison, Arthur became aware of his lover's well toned muscles, his skin – he could tell – was very well taken care of; the result of being pampered as a child. Francis' eyes contrasted with Arthur's. An almost middle toned blue peered straight into his own, not to mention other places; althoughhe'd rather keep that information to himself.

It had become obvious that from their first experience, Francis wanted something different; something that no one could really portray in movies or videos. He didn't believe in simple "sex" as the medical term was used. He believed in "making love"; the kind of feeling you not get just physically, but mentally also.

The one night stands he had in the past, how he truly regrets giving his first to someone else other than Arthur. It haunted him; he was so lucky to have someone so amazing, and here he was, not even able to give that meaningful symbol back.

As he started and continued to prepare both himself and Arthur, he subconsciously began to think. It was true that they had moved too fast. It was a risk; but it happened.

When he was sure that Arthur was ready, he lifted him up so that they were now in a sitting position; Arthur sitting comfortably in his lap.

"Ready, Cher?" He whispered against Arthur's lips, lifting him up and slowly lowering him down onto his shaft until he was fully in.

Francis paused for a moment – as hard as it was – so that Arthur would have some time to adjust. Tears were beading at the corners of Arthur's eyes, as he bit down on his bottom lip trying to get used to the feeling.

When he finally loosened up, Francis pulled out slowly, before thrusting in. Arthur cried out, whimpering as he held on to Francis, arms wrapped tightly around his neck.

Leaning forward now so that Arthur could lie down, Francis thought it'd be easier for him to relax.

Sensing his lover convulsing in his lower regions, he came to the conclusion that he was close.

Francis quickened his pace, wanting Arthur to feel as good as possible. When he felt Arthur tighten around him, he held him close, whispering gibberish-infused love; flooding the atmosphere around them. Arthur came; Francis followed soon after, riding it off for a moment before collapsing cautiously on Arthur.

For about an hour, they stayed in bed, basking in the afterglow of their previous activity. Arthur flipped over on his stomach, looking out through the mesh wall; some lights had faded and turned off, and although it was almost pitch black, he could still see the stars up in the sky.

Looking over, Francis also turned over, smiling at Arthur lovingly as he kept his eyes fixed on the lights outside.

"Do you love me?" Francis asked suddenly; Arthur was shocked, almost – angry, even.

"O-of course I do!" He shouted, furrowing his eyebrows and pouting, to which Francis answered, "Then prove it to me. Shout it to the world." He gestured towards the mesh.

"Fine!" He blushed, leaned over to Francis' ear and whispered quietly, "I love you, jerk."

"Hmm? Why did you whisper it to me?"

"Because…" Arthur looked away, suddenly stricken with shyness; he whispered even more gently, "You are my world."

This would mark the beginning, of both of their lives.

It had been a whole year since then; past their graduation, their packing up, and moving to a new house. Francis had renewed the channels of communication between himself and his father; regardless of how long the silence between them for years; evoked emotions between the two that they thought impossible. Now the happy owner of a branch restaurant chain supported by his family, he had hired Arthur as a waiter, so as to keep the two of them close.

"Cher…" Francis complained, "Will you please put down that book? You have been attached to that thing for weeks!"

Flipping a page, Arthur looked up from the book and whined, "But I'm on my break right now!"

The clanking of dishes echoed in the sink as Francis turned the tap on to wash them, "You have read that book many times already! Are you not tired of it?"

"I don't think I ever could be." He turned the page again, "…you know, Romeo is my favourite character."

"Is that so?" He squeezed some soap onto a nearby sponge and began to clean the plates, "and why is that?"

"Mhmm. I've always wanted to meet someone with such a deep personality; some one with a strange infatuation with love, a need for rebellion, something forbidden. Sort of like…you."

Another page turn; Francis laughed, finished up and walked over to Arthur, hugging him from behind, "'Sort of'; You know I can never…"

"Yes, I know." Arthur leaned up; kissed Francis on the lips and sighed contently, "You're only one half my Romeo."

"For never was a story of more woe
Than this of Juliet and her Romeo."

THE END

FINISHED

Thank you all for reading my very first multi-chaptered story! All your reviews made me so happy! I wish this story didn't have to end, I love it so much! But, stay tuned for the upcoming SEQUEL.

CONTEST RESULTS:

Thanks for all your entries! The answers were all really great! Here, I will announce the top three winners for the hard, medium and easy questions:

HARD: Which character(s) do/does Matthew and Alfred represent in the original "Romeo and Juliet"? and why?

WINNER: I am a purple crayon

ANSWER: "I believe that Matthew and Alfred represent one character; Mercutio. Mercutio is a very funny character in the romantic play that is also a good friend of Romeo. He is also a sexual person and is more into being physically romantic than connecting on an emotional level.

Alfred and Matthew are also like this. They add a lot of humor (and not to mention fan service) to serious situations. In addition, Matthew and Alfred,like,totally play Arthur's BFFs. Finally, they have a very... physical relationship. All in all, Alfred and Matthew resemble Mercutio the most out of all the characters in Shakespeares work of genius, Romeo and Juliet."

MEDIUM: What kind of tea does Arthur offer Francis first?

WINNER: Allyon Everstone

ANSWER: "a swirl of orange liquid and grey-ish black herbs A tart, tangy flavor , a hinted mix of orange and lemon; not too sweet, not too strong either.

I'm guessing a lemon mint tea"

EASY: What is the name of Arthur's plush? Why do you think he named it so?

WINNER: Luciyfer

ANSWER: "I THINK HE NAMED HIS UNICORN THAT BECAUSE IT SOUNDS LIKE A VERY UNICORN-ISH NAME FOR A UNICORN AND ARTHUR LIKES UNICORNS. AND THE UNICORN MUST BE FLUFFY BECAUSE THAT UNICORN IS FUCKING BOSS AND ONLY A BOSS PLUSHIE UNICORN CAN BE FLUFFY.

BTW THE ENDING OF THIS CHAPTER LIKE ALMOST GAVE ME A HEART ATTACK."

PRIZES:

Hard: One shot with pairing of the reader's choice (based on the pairings list on my user profile; there are some exceptions [e.g. No crack pairings]), and an illustrated drawing of any scene in the fic under the "T" rating.

Medium: Illustration of any scene rated "T" and under.

Easy: Suggestion of a scene that I will write in the "One Half Romeo" sequel.

(WINNERS MUST LEAVE A REVIEW IN THIS CHAPTER AS TO WHAT THEY WANT IN THEIR PRIZES)

If you're not up in the top three don't worry, you still win!

Listed below are the other readers who have entered the contest! If you entered, you may request a scene that be written in the SEQUEL when it is posted up. In other words, all the scenes from the other readers will be put somewhere in the sequel you must also leave your scene idea in a review so that I can see if you've claimed your prize:

PrussianAwesomeness

RasalynnLynx

Valainstima

Teal Phoenix

ONE HALF ROMEO FINAL ANALYSIS:

See the list of characters and roles played, the behind the scenes look, and the making of the story.

Found here: http : / / emgee-chan . deviantart . c o m / journal / 36410107/

ONE HALF ROMEO PURIKURA SCENE ART:

http : / / emgee-chan . deviantart . com / # / d330cdy

NEW STORY ALERT: "SECONDHAND MARIONETTE"

If you enjoyed "One Half Romeo", you might enjoy my latest story, "Secondhand Marionette"

Pairings: USCAN, FrUK

Genre: Romance/Humour/Adventure

Summary: "And, like a collector falling in love with that cute doll in the window, it was only natural that one would make the purchase. That is, until those said "inanimate" objects fall in love with their new masters."