White petals caress the marble floor, Sheer curtains sway, as the wind blows by them. The bride glides through the arched door And, bare footed, steps on a poisonous stem. She bares the pain, With tears in her eyes, Below her foot rests a stain, Of tormented lies. Walking wilted, towards the altar, Forcing a smile upon her ruby cheeks, Approaching her groom, trying not to falter, Peering into his eyes for the love she seeks. Embracing his hand with a clammy palm, Faintly trembling on the sanctuary steps, Breathing deeply to become slowly calm, His look of wonderment she accepts. The priest welcomes the loving guests: The caring mother, the regretful father, The jealous sister, the desirous mistress, And all the rest. They were all brought here, On this memorable day, To witness the fear And the inevitable dismay. Fighting back the tears, The bride listens to her fiances vows, The searing pain in her ears And the guilt that he endows. No more waiting for the right moment, To pour out her sins, No more having to say what she meant, On needles and pins. All that was left was this sacred union Between two people who were in love, A pair inseparable by anyone, Who's destiny was as pure as a dove. The bells chimed, and the ceremony ended. She gave her heart, to cherish and to treasure, "Till death do us part!" No pun intended.