He had waited for her to grow up, only for her to undertake a perilous mission from which she never returned. Everyone called her a hero, but she was gone.
She had left him all alone in the world. He had spent years waiting for someone who was never coming back.
But miraculously, his wait was finally over.
After receiving the certificate, the only step remaining in the formal process was to recite the vows.
Bennett and Yvonne stood facing each other, holding the card with the official vows that the clerk had handed them, and began to read together.
"We willingly unite as husband and wife. From this day forward, we will share all the responsibilities and duties of marriage. For better or for worse, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, we promise to cherish and love one another for the rest of our lives."
Bennett's deep eyes were fixed on Yvonne, his gaze so intense it felt as if he wanted to merge their very souls.
She gazed back at him, her own beautiful eyes shimmering like starlight.
The entire process of getting married had gone off without a hitch.
As Bennett led Yvonne out of the building by the hand, the moment still felt surreal.
The office was now open to the public, and happy young couples were flooding in, crowding around the counter to take a number and wait their turn.
Yvonne instinctively paused, watching the bustling scene for a moment.
"It's so lively in there," she said, her voice filled with a touch of envy. "I almost wish we could have gotten married like that, amidst all the excitement."
"We could go join them," Bennett said, squeezing her hand. "If someone recognizes you, we'll just announce our marriage right then and there. Give everyone something to celebrate."
"Let's not," Yvonne said, shaking her head. "They're all having their moment. We shouldn't cause a scene." She let Bennett lead her out of the building.
She then took the marriage certificate from her purse and held it up for him to see.
"Grandpa, the wedding dress you made for me... I've kept it perfectly safe. When Bennett and I have our ceremony, I'm going to wear it and be the most beautiful bride for you."
"I miss you so much, Grandpa. If there really is another life after this one, I hope I get to meet you there, too."
Her eyes welled with tears she couldn't hold back.
Bennett leaned down and draped his jacket over her shoulders, then gently stroked her hair.
"The wind is picking up," he said softly. "Let's head back for now. We can come visit him again soon."
"Okay," Yvonne nodded, letting Bennett take her hand and lead her back down the hill.

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