Mia’s hair was the first sight that I could call absolutely breathtaking. The luscious curls that could shine on the gloomiest days. She has so much light emanating from every inch of her body and soul.

I walk into the hallway leading to her door. Today’s our wedding. The union of our souls, our very existence. The frivolous extras of cake and partying means nothing to me. I am happy to do so but I just need to look at her. See her for her beauty, tell her fully what she means to me. All of what it means for us to be together. I take a deep breath, deciding to go with our plan of a first look before we get this thing started. I open the door to find a different woman.

“No, no, don’t look at me, get out!”

I stand frozen. Confusion is all over my face. She’s sees it and mistakes it for something else. Fat tears roll down her face in droves. Loud sobs that can’t be contained escape from her mouth. A heap on the floor in her dress, a destroyed wig in hand. Her head is balding. More so bald with little scraps left that have no life left to give.

I quickly wipe away the look on my face for one of comfort and acceptance. I get on the floor next to her and scoop her up.

“You are so beautiful, I don’t think you understand how I see you, regardless of what may change of the outside. The hair I knew shined. Now, you head shines.”

She laughs with some sniffles in between. It’s true. I love this woman more than she’ll ever understand.

“I mean, come on Mia, I now get to rub your bald head whenever I want!”

“Really? That’s what you say in this situation?”

“Yup. You know who you’re marrying.”

She laughs again and scoots closer. She rests her head on my chest. The wedding is ours, it’s not possible to be late.