Pretty Boy: The Lost Chapters

Extra: Because You're Worth That to Me

Note: So, fun fact: I had never intended to write out a full blown wedding scene when Marshall and Paul did their commitment ceremony at city hall. I've attended a city hall wedding before, and they're actually really quick. Like, when I witnessed it, it was legit like a "do you take this person? is it reciprocated? cool, you're married." Really fast. Plus, I wanted to leave the important vows and things like that for the bigger celebration at the end of Pretty Boy.

Still, I did think heavily about how the night went after the commitment ceremony was over with Marshall and Paul now donning their new roles as husbands. Switching from just boyfriends to being legitimately bound to each other, not just in terms of the imprint, was and still is an extremely important, emotional shift for them. I wanted to flesh that out, both to capture how much they really feel about each other along with how those emotions are amplified since the big fight with Victoria's army is looming over their shoulders.

This is going to be extremely emotional and heartfelt. Get your popcorn. Get your tissues. And, as always, please enjoy!

Also, character details I never mentioned: I always thought it was cute to have a pretty substantial height difference between Marshall and Paul. So even though Marshall himself is a big guy, standing at a staggering 5'11, Paul is even bigger, standing at 6'4. That five inch difference normally leaves Marshall at just about chin height to Paul (which is adorable!).

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"It is here, on this day, June 14, surrounded by friends, family, and loved ones, I hereby bind you, Marshall and Paul, together as committed partners. May life's journey be full of warmth, laughter, love, and happiness. Finally, in honor of your union to one another, you may now seal your promises with a kiss."

With their commitment ceremony now at its end, Marshall could no longer contain his excitement. A small, delighted hop was followed by him standing on his toes. Doing so made it easier for Paul to lean down without having to bend too much. 

As their lips collided, both men let out pleased sighs that were drowned out by the excited cheers coming from the pack. 

A thumping heart could be felt against Marshall's chest. His hands were wrapped, blanketed, in enveloping currents of blissful heat. Additional warmth caressed the skin of his cheeks, courtesy of Paul's apparent blush—one which bloomed across his skin at their shared declaration of "I do".

Even though Marshall wasn't capable of blushing himself, his chest swarmed with rampant fluttering. Goosebumps frolicked across his bare arms, giving texture to the vibrant patterns of his intricately done tattoos. The nerves in his hands felt abuzz with excitement. He was able to feel every fold in the palms and fingers pressed against his own. He was able to feel light trembles of exhilaration.

His heart swelled in genuine happiness, and a new form of adoration swept over him.

Marshall was pulled into a hug at the conclusion of their quick smooch. His head was cradled against his now husband's chest. Additional kisses were peppered against his scalp. Delicate rubs were made along his upper back, instilling a sense of comfort.

Being in his partner's arms had never felt more homey than they did in that very moment.

Both men allowed themselves to be whisked away by their pack mates. Laughter and cheering followed them out of the main hall.

Glass doors were pushed open, cool, somewhat humid air greeting everyone along with the salty smell of oncoming summer. Streetlights with white bulbs illuminated the stairs and sidewalks. Parked cars reflected vibrant streaks in their windows. Trees ruffled in accordance with a minor breeze. Flower petals fell from thin branches to dance along the pavement in an uncoordinated waltz.