Okay everyone, I was asked to input the honeymoon. As asked we follow along and even see the couple solve a case of a missing girl.

SURGEON GENERAL WARNING: The following fan fiction off of a piece of fan fiction contains EXTREMELY HIGH levels of BST – which has been proven to cause severe addiction in low doses. Read at your own risk. If you feel you are addicted it is too late – pray for new chapters and ease withdraw symptoms with re-reading past chapters from start to finish, or get allowance to write your own fan fiction from March Hare. You all who have yet to read any of it have been warned.

DISCLAIMER: Sherlock Holmes and all Cannonal Characters do not belong to me – in the US they belong to the estate of Dame Jean Conan Doyle (at least the casebook does). All BST characters not seen in the Cannon or other Sherlockian and NON-Sherlockian works belong to either March Hare or their perspective owners. All other characters belong to me, and cannot be used without my permission. ^_^

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Chapter 16

In Which We Celebrate and Go onto the Future

By Bonnie S.

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Nona –

We were back at Oakstaff not long after the ceremony. After the all too long for my tastes receiving line, Sherlock and I had our first dance. To my surprise it was the song I had hummed to him that night he finally got clean. Sherlock wore a grin on his face at my expression, but I had never been so touched in my life. I was surprised that he even remembered it. Later he told me that it would be a song that he would never forget. Just to get even with him I decided to sing the words to the music. As the music died away, I could see he was fighting with tears. "That was beautiful, Lady Holmes."

"The song said it all, Sir Sherlock. Everything I feel for you, even if I had to re-word the chorus a little – you are not a girl after all." He kissed me gently and look in my eyes. I swear I will never forget how I felt at that moment ever. "Even as you sang it to me, my wife, those words are how I feel as well."

I danced with my dad, while Sherlock danced with my mom after that. All too appropriate the song was "Butterfly Kisses". I chuckled at it. "Are all the songs from the future, dad?" He winked as he twirled me a little. "Only the important songs." He sang me the third verse and it hit home. 'She'll change her name today. She'll make a promise and I'll give her away. Standing in the bride room, just staring at her. She asks me what I'm thinking, and I said I'm not sure, I just feel like I'm losing my baby girl. She leaned over... Gave me butterfly kisses, with her mama there, sticking little white flowers all up in her hair. Walk me down the aisle Daddy, it's about time. And does my wedding gown look pretty Daddy? Daddy don't cry. Oh, with all that I've done wrong, I must have done something right, to deserve her love every morning and butterfly kisses... I couldn't ask God for more, man this is what love is. I know I got to let her go...but I'll always remember... Every hug in the morning.. and butterfly kisses....'

Then I dance with my father-in-law, while my mom and dad danced and little Ashley got to dance with her new 'favorite' cousin. "Dad, if it hurts, we don't have to dance." He looked at me with a stern smile. "You are finally my daughter, and I believe that this is our dance." I was not about to argue that point as a VERY familiar intro began to play. Again it was a song from my old time. Kyle was a sneak. It was the piece he and his teacher had wrote for my birthday a few years back – the orchestra version of 'Love Can Build a Bridge'. Dad saw that I knew the song. "What are the words, Nona?" I sang the song as it played. At the end I saw that Dad had tears in his eyes. "Violet would have loved that song. Thank you."

Trish –

I could hardly believe everything that had happened up to this point! It had felt so right walking up the aisle on Mycroft's arm, like it had been our day. But, he was a confirmed bachelor for life. That put a twist in my heart at that moment. Well, at the least I knew without question that I could trust him and he would always be a good friend. Who was I kidding? I was hurting. No one would know me as deeply as Mycroft. That I decided only minutes after I confessed my every dark secret to him. I would never set myself up to be hurt like that again.

I had looked him over as I had walked up the aisle. He was so good looking in that outfit, and I saw easily that he had lost more weight. A total of ten pounds I would later find out. It might seem like a small number, but it made a huge impact on his appearance.

We rode in the same carriage as Watson and Mary (who were lost in one another's eyes the entire trip) back to Oakstaff. I liked how Mycroft had kept a gentle possessive hand on mine as we drove through the night. I knew it was only because the previous night still had him and the other men rattled, but I secretly daydreamed that maybe he had some kind of feelings for me.

Once everyone had gone into the ballroom for the ball we lined up for the receiving line. Every man I was introduced to all asked me for the first dance, but there was only one I really wanted to dance with for that dance at the least. I politely told them that I had given the dance to another, hoping that if Mycroft didn't dance with me that these jackals would understand when I tell them that I saved it for myself. The man I wanted to dance with himself had vanished along with a few of his men after one of them whispered into his ear, so maybe something was going down and they didn't want to spoil everyone's good time.

The song was beautiful as Holmes and Nona breezed across the dance floor in their first dance. I smiled as I watched them, noting how quickly time was dwindling before the rest of us would be dancing with them. So far no Mycroft to my rescue, so maybe I could fake an illness? No, not on these guys' wedding day!

Looked like I was going to be stuck with whoever talked to me first. And here I thought that I was going to enjoy tonight. And then a warm familiar hand rested on my shoulder – Mycroft had returned from wherever. "I had heard you saved the first dance with someone. Should I feel disappointed or elated?"

"Elated of course. Where have you been? I was getting worried that the hunters would be stalking me in another few seconds." And I had been right. Most of the packs had broken off their attack patterns the moment Mycroft and I started talking.

What got me was he was wearing his all too rare smile! Still I had to give myself a reality check. More than likely he is just happy for his brother, not being here with me and hearing I saved the first dance for him. Yeah, that had to be it.

The music signaled all to join in, and he offered me his arm that I took gratefully and proudly. So what if we were only friends. So what if that is all we'd ever be. I would rather have him as my friend than to have never known the man.

We continued dancing through four more songs, to the annoyance of my many suitors. And then Mycroft found a way for us to slip out onto the back porch without being noticed. The stars were twinkling, and the moon was a beautiful smile. But, I doubted that it was smiling on me. Oh well, romantic interlude turned to dust as I force myself to remain in friends only mode – despite the fact that it was breaking my heart. "So, what happened to you earlier?"

"An unexpected and un-welcomed gift for my brother and his new bride. Someone left a box of red and white roses with this card."

He reached it over to me and I read it. It was written on a typewriter and read like this:

Mr. & Mrs. Holmes;

One sentiment to you both, and certainly to the blushing bride in particular. Cherish each of the days together you have as it were the last you have.

It was unsigned, and gave me chills. "What could this and flowers mean?"

Mycroft shook his head with a grave expression on his face. "Red and white roses given is a threat or wish for death. What do you make of the card?"

'Certainly to the bride in particular.' Why single out Nona? "Could someone be out to hurt Nona?"

Mycroft shook his head. "No, I think it is a reminder." And then he told me about her close call with Moriarty.

I growled angrily. "He's reminding her that he tried to save her heart later down the road. That old coot is sick in the head!" Mycroft snorted indignantly at that. "And we have no way to prove that it had been he who sent the 'gift'. I will talk to Sherlock about this later. For now let's allow them to enjoy their beginnings, shall we?"

I nodded in agreement and again looked up. It was comforting when he stood behind me and rested his hands on my shoulders. I really began to wonder what my future held. Virgil wouldn't be a child forever. In fact, he was going to start at boarding school all too shortly. Theresa already had work lined up. But I had no idea how I was going to earn my keep when I was forbidden from doing housework.

Everything was uncertain and foreboding ahead of me, and yet, with Mycroft there with me, I felt safe. But I knew that he'd never see me as anything but a friend.

***

Mycroft –

I knew that I should have been worry for my brother and new sister, but at that moment my mind wouldn't focus on anything past the young woman before me. Trish had gone through so much and given up just as much to remain here. Now her future was in critical question. Like my new sister, she refused to live anywhere on another's charity. However there were few employment opportunities for her.

I knew that she had been through too much and it was too soon to consider asking her to remain as my permanent guest here at Oakstaff. I just couldn't find anything to suit her where I would not lose touch with her. The last thing this young woman needed was to be seemingly abandoned by the few she knew and the even fewer she trusted.

The look on her face told me she was only wearing a mask of pleasantness for the mean time. Soon Trish would break down, and I feared what could happen if she were alone when that happened. She … she … she …

When had this young woman become anything to me? I never thought anything of females in the past. My work, my club, and my rooms – that had been the extent of my focus for years. So how in so short of time had she made herself a part of that core?

That first night it had been a mere wonder that had kept me talking to her. Trish spoke of her friendship with Nona, her plans to teach, what she had learned at school, and some of the wonders I doubted that I would ever see. And then she began to ask intelligent questions about myself. When she continued to ask questions and make comments I saw that she held a genuine interest in her new world. She was as un-Victorian as Nona and the Queen. That quality about her was the first reason I respected Trish.

Respect and what I felt standing behind her on the terrace that night was as separate as could be had. The day Virgil fell asleep in her arms, I only borrowed Trish's book to be polite. It also gave me valuable information about the woman herself. She had written notes in the margins, presumably concepts for her own tales. I found her to be complex, interesting, and anything but predictable.

I returned the book and she turned over its next volume, along with her soul, to me without my asking. The things she said were appalling, and should have never been placed on a living soul – much less the child she had been at the time. Yet, I see a woman who had lived with those guilts and shame for her entire life. For a moment I wondered what had kept her from going mad from the strain I saw in her stance and face. But when I absolved her of that horrid past, she … she fit in my embrace so perfectly. No, I couldn't think like that.

I only took her to visit the Queen because I knew once word of Trish's arrival made it back to her majesty that it would be requested of me. I believed that we were both bored at the opera. Trish still had no idea that I held her in higher favor than most women.

When she returned to North Riding I went straight back to work. It was nothing more than a visit from a friend. I was not yearning to chase after her, and I had only watch the train depart to be sure she was secure. She was my friend and under my protection until that moment. I would have done the same for any other friend.

Then I escorted Nona here for the final wedding preparations. I returned the third book, not understanding why there was need of a fourth. Trish harped gently until I read the book to see what was so important. If she only knew how I wished such things could happen in life. However, pinning for such brings nothing in return normally.

The two of us discussed the books, and I critiqued a few of her works from the series. She wished that she had me with her when she had been writing them. It seemed that she had put them out for the public a few weeks before moving in at Oakstaff, and I found many little problems and inconstancies.

Then Trish and I began talking about the wedding, and told me about the various documents she had discovered. I chuckled at her resourcefulness. If she weren't a woman it wouldn't have been difficult to find her work in my department. Yet there was that one point standing in her way.

I held her shoulders in my hands and was pleased when she leaned into my touch. As remarkable a woman she was, Trish still needed a place to belong. She needed a reason to be.

"Mycroft, I wonder if I was supposed to go back instead of staying like I did."

That statement had me in shock. "Why Trish?"

She turned around and gave me the saddest smile I had ever seen on her face. "Nona had a place here in the past. I found her and Sherlock's marriage and death certificates along with several birth certificates for children accounted for them after all."

"Did you trying looking for your name as well?" I was worried. Trish was beginning to crack from the strain.

She looked at the ground and sighed hard. "The computer slowed down to where I just shut it off because I thought I didn't have enough time to look. Sherlock's letter said I had only a certain amount of time, while Nona's said I had about twenty-four hours more. She's meant to be here, I'm not."

"Just because you didn't find your records doesn't mean you are not meant to be here. After all, who would have saved my Father if you hadn't come? And think about all of the lives that you have touched since remaining? How different would their lives have been?" I held her close and wondered how different my life would have been without Trish. She didn't look up at me as she challenged my sincerity. "Name one."

I thought a moment and nodded with satisfaction. "What about that little girl you pulled away from being ran down by the carriage? The one you told not to let the good end with her? She didn't according to my sources." That got Trish's attention. "That little girl saved a little boy from drowning, and told him the same. Where did you think of that, Trish?"

She smiled and blushed. "I reworded a song I love a lot."

When she sang that song I felt something stir in my chest I had believed was long dead. I barely knew this woman, but I knew that I didn't want to see her leave. That was when we saw a doorway to her time open in the bushes. Trish started to go towards it, but I wasn't ready to give her up. I grabbed a hold of her arm firmly and got her eyes to meet mine. "If you don't stay for the rest, stay for me. Give me one year to see how you change my time … my world. One year and if I can't convince you to stay, I will … I will let you do as you wish."

Trish looked at the portal for a moment and then returned to my embrace and nodded softly. "One year from today."

I held her close and prayed hard that I could find the needed evidence before time ran out. I had no idea at the time as to why; I just knew she was a part of my life I did not want to lose.

***

Nona –

A few more appropriate to the era songs played. At the first moment we weren't expected to be on the floor dancing Sherlock and I went outside to look at the stars and get some privacy. We ended up on the same bench as we sat on at my first ball. "So much is different now than before." He didn't have to ask me what I meant. Sherlock just smiled an honest but tired smile. "That is very true Lady Holmes, but thankfully most of the changes are for the better."

"You calling me that makes me worried people will think that I am Holly." I chuckled. The truth was that I wasn't really accustomed to being a Lady. Sherlock brushed a finger down my cheek. "Then I will have to call you Mrs. Holmes until you have time to adjust to your new title my dear." That wasn't at all what I had in mind, but I wasn't in the mood to fight him – not on our wedding night. "If you must, Sir Sherlock." That lit his eyes with the heat of a challenge. I'd bet anything he was planning what he would do to me later on for that. "I insist, Mrs. Holmes."

Before I could retort, Ashley came running up. "There you are! I lonely!" She bounced into Sherlock's lap and beamed. "He nicer in person, me Nona."

I had to laugh. Poor Sherlock looked at me as if the girl was an alien from another planet! "Remember the letter, Sherlock? About the presents." That explained it all, but Ashley had to add her bit in. "Yeah, I love my dolly. I named her Christmas. But can I have new dollies for my dollhouse?" Sherlock smirked, but I could tell he wanted to laugh as badly as I did. After a moment, he finally had enough composure to answer her. "Wait until you get home, and we will see." That was a bad choice of words to say to a four-year-old. Ashley jumped down and giggled before running off, "yay, new dollies!"

I broke down into tears. "Nice job, Sir Sherlock. 'We'll see' to her is a sure thing." Sherlock shook his head and chuckled as well. "You wait until now to tell me this?" Raising my hands in mock defeat, I gave a sweet smirk. "Dearest, you didn't give me the chance. Besides, she asked me the day everyone arrived before she dragged me back here, and I stupidly said the same thing. So the double 'we'll see' means she will be angry for six months to a year if we don't get her a present." Giving a smirk and a shutter, Sherlock winked at me. "Given I am so nice, looks like we'll be sending some dolls." I nodded and we went back inside for dinner.

What Sherlock and I didn't know until our first dance was that the band was from the twenty-first century. Kyle had talked his band teacher into coming to Oakstaff with the full orchestra the man worked with on the weekends to play (creatively telling the man that it was a Victorian themed wedding). We also later found out that the portal to and from my old time connected to the front door was active for our wedding (nice wedding gift momma Holmes) connected to the Oakstaff of the future so that it was like they had only walked into the house, rather than time traveled. Yet, it closed until the band was ready to go, and then when my family a few days later too wanted to go home. None of the guests from the current era asked the band about the music they didn't recognize. Our families thankfully handled those questions.

After dinner, the champagne was passed around (the kids only getting a small splash in their juice mind you – it is a celebration, but I won't let them act as if they are adults) for the toast. Mycroft nodded over to Watson, which I knew meant he was getting our dear friend to speak first. "I have known Holmes and Nona from the beginning. I will not go on with how I knew this night was going to happen, because they both know that I did." Everyone chuckled and I fought off my blush. Maybe Sherlock and I should have kept the teasing to only when we were alone? Nah, was more fun watching Watson chuckling behind his paper.  He raised his glass and smiled at us. "They are my dearest friends and I am grateful to count them as such. Nona, you have had to deal with much in the short time I have known you – thankfully it was not all from Holmes." I couldn't hide my laughter at that, though Sherlock blushed a bit. Well, for a majority he deserved it. "But it made you all the better for it. Here's to the bride. May your hours of joy be as numerous as the petals of your bridal bouquet."

There were agreements as everyone took a sip but me (it isn't polite to sip when you are the subject of a toast!). I was fighting off my tears. Then Watson went after Sherlock. "Holmes, you once told me that you were a brain and that the rest of you is a mere appendix. I am grateful that you have learned otherwise. Here's to the groom, a man who keeps his head though he loses his heart." As I took a sip of my drink, I could see that Sherlock was as moved as I was. Appendix my foot! Not so long as I lived his body and heart wouldn't be! But, Watson wasn't finished with us just yet. "To you both, my friends. With all of the trials and heartaches the two of you have come through this past year, I hope and pray that the worst of woes for you both is over and done. May every day be happier than the last. Let's drink to love, which is nothing -- unless it's divided by two."

I'm glad I wasn't supposed to sip after that. I had to swallow just to keep from crying. I am so glad I got him that writing set the first Christmas we were all together. Before Mycroft stood I whispered to Sherlock, "if he jokes, we get that butterball." Sherlock smirked. "We could make certain he must act soon towards Trish." I nodded. So, was butterball to be roasted or not was the question needing answered. "I knew I shouldn't have let the doctor who is a known man of words go first. Who can follow a speech like that one?" Question answered and oven is set on pre-heat to four hundred! "First to my little brother. A toast to the groom -- and discretion to his bachelor friends and relatives. Sherlock, You've taken Nona for better or for worse, but please never take her for granted. I'm sure you know what will happen if you do that again." Taking that sip was hard giving the chuckles I just couldn't get a handle on as Sherlock again blushed. "And now to my new sister, Nona. I hope that this is a night you will never forget. But, if you do forget, may you remember it quicker than the things you forgot before and in an easier manner. May you never forget what is worth remembering or remember what is best forgotten." Okay, now I am so torn. Roast or not to roast … what a corny question! Time to find that baster. "Now to the happy couple together. What has past is best where it is now. The best advice I could give you both is to focus on making the next memory the best if it were to be your last. For the best memories are the ones we cherish the most, but remember infrequently at best. May the best of your yesterdays be the worst of your tomorrows." Okay, maybe I won't need that baster after all. Ah heck, I went and got it out already – might as well use it.

Then my dad stood up. This would probably be the last night I'd see him. It just hit me that he wouldn't even be able to tell me what to do if I need someone to talk to. No, I would not cry! "And Mycroft was complaining about following a wonderful speech? Well I least I am only following a measure of one." Guess he saw my hurt, because he would always go for a giggle right when I needed it most. "First to my baby girl. You will never stop being my baby, even now as a grown woman and a new wife, and I will never stop being proud of you. May the most that you will ever wish for, be the very least of what you will receive." Where's the giggle when I need it? Dad just smiled and went on. "Sherlock, you and your friend, John, have saved my daughter many times. That was the first reason I accepted that she was marrying you tonight. But, I also know that you are a man who will do whatever it takes to make her happy and take care of her when life gets rough. To the man who will always have the bride's heart, and her father's respect." I had to smile as I took a sip. Dad was already taking care of me, for when the times got rough. Then he smiled at us both. "Finally, to the both of you. I see the love you both have in each other's eyes and as your love grows for one another, may you look back on this day and know this is when you loved each other the least."

Mom stood up and looked as nervous as I had ever seen her. "Since I'm the only mother able to give a speech tonight, I hope it is fitting and well received by all." Getting that out of the way helped mom to calm a little. "Nona, I've been with you from the earliest beginnings of you life. And with every milestone you have come to I have been there in person or at the very least in spirit. May you have many more to come across and be there for your children's as well." I could see that mom was battling her tears too. I knew right then, if Sherlock and I had kids, watching my babies get married was going to be the hardest experience I would ever bear. Then she smiled again. "Sherlock, marrying you for my baby is a dream come true. I only ask that you do all you can to make the dream last and keep the nightmares away. To my new son, a toast to love, laughter, and happily ever after." I smiled more at that. Mom knew I wanted to be the secret Princess rescued and married by the white knight. Well now I have my knight who rescued me and finally married me. "As to the both of you. I have only one wish I could give you. May you live as long as the two of you want, but never want so long as the two of you live."

That nearly started the waterworks. I had to swallow twice while Sir Siger stood up. My new dad. At least I knew for certain that I could go to him if things got real bad. "I am certain that my Violet would not only receive that toast well, but she would have been as pleased with the lady who gave it as I know she is with her daughter." Okay swallow. Again, and again. "Nona, you have come into this family, turned what was accepted upside down, gave my son new strength to stand up to me, and taught a bitter old fool a well deserved lesson. You also helped to save my worthless life, and gave me a peace I thought I would never have again. For all of that I thank you, and am proud to call you my daughter." Dang, one tear got away. This time I caught it with my handkerchief. "Sherlock, I told you not long ago to do right by this girl. Thankfully you took my advice for once. Here is to the son I have never said this to, but I am very proud of and grateful I have him." I sipped my drink and tried to keep from crying and laughing at the startled expression that was now on my husband's face. Dad was grinning as he raised his glass one last time to us. "Violet and I had many years together. We were happy and content with all we did. I wish that the same be blessed on the two of you, my children. May the joy you share today be just the beginning of a lifetime of happiness and fulfillment."

I was so hoping there would be no more speeches, but I was wrong. Victoria stood and everyone was instantly silent. After a moment to compose herself, I saw the shy friend who dotted on her grandchildren turn into the Queen I respected and admired. "It is a rare joy to know such a couple. It is even rarer still to count them among my friends." That was the most uncommon of honors I never dared hope to get – for her to call us her friends in public. First she looked to me. "Nona, with a wisdom and heart that none has before now seen, you are a jewel. All that you have gone through to get to this time and place has made you who you are. The harsher days cut you, while the better days polished you until now you shine. Now all can see the brilliant fire of the love you two share alight with you. Never be afraid of who you are, because none can outshine you." Okay that just out did being call a friend, by a VERY long mile! Sherlock was smiling, until Victoria addressed him. "Sherlock, you are a subject and friend who is uncommon in Our kingdom. And it was only recently that I was able to give you the honor you most certainly deserve. Yet, I doubt that title is of very great importance next to the distinction you have now as Nona's husband. You are a worthy man for such a tribute, and may you never forget nor renounce what she has given you tonight." He nodded as I took a sip. "As for you both, you have been there for one another through grief and troubles. May you see each other through many dark days, and make all the rest brighter." Victoria might be shy, but she could give quite the speech.

Then Sherlock stood. Oh man, how would I get through this? Would he at the least give me the chance to recover from the other toasts? Nope, my luck would hold wouldn't it? "Nona, this past year had turned my world around, often confused me, irritated me, and came close to losing my sanity along with my life now and again. Through it all I have had two constants, Watson and then you." He smiled and I gave up fighting my tears. "Watson called our negotiations that first morning a very neat battle as I remember. It was a battle I am thankful I lost. I got not only that chemistry book that I thoroughly enjoyed, but I also found the most amazing of women as well. You have changed my life, changed my world, and changed myself. To my bride, who knows all there is about me and still loves me." After a moment he turned to Watson. "Watson, you have been a dear friend over the years. Saw me through injury, stupidity, and healing of all kinds. You were the first to save Nona, and it was you who brought her into our lives. It is you too I must thank. To my dearest friend and my Boswell, John Watson."

I could see how touched Sherlock's words made Watson. Then my husband turned to his elder brother. Roast butterball anyone? "Mycroft there are times you can be tiresome with your audacious humor. Yet, you are there when I need advice, support, or a smack in the head. As I too will be for you."

"Mr. Brown, I am the lucky man indeed tonight. For as often as I tried to push her away, your daughter is still remaining with me. The fact that you support us gives me all the more reason to be grateful." Holmes might not do many speeches, but the ones he did give when sober were memorable. "Mrs. Brown, Father was right in that my mother would have enjoyed that speech. And finally having Nona as my wife is my dream come true as well. And I will do my best to guard her from the nightmares that might one day come." Then he nodded to his father. "We have never seen eye to eye until Nona came into our lives, Father. And then she gave us a blessing none other than she could give. I am grateful that you accepted her as my wife, and have done so much to welcome Nona into our family. I only hope to have as many happy times with Nona as you had and would have had with Mother." Then Sherlock bowed to Victoria. "Your Majesty, it is an honor and a pleasure to be held as a friend of yours and to have the other honors you have bestowed upon myself and my bride. Nona, true, is a jewel and my treasure. I do not intend to ever give her up. Of that you have my word."

Well, it was my turn. God, I was not ready for this! Heck, I have never been good at speeches! "First to you Sherlock. You were out to help me from the start without being asked. I know I was butting in your life and you didn't like that at first, but you and Watson were the constants in my world at that time. I knew from the start that I could trust you both, and that was the reason I fought that little war with you to stay. Then you took my heart, and I never want it back." That got applauds and I saw the tears shinning in his eyes. He knew what I meant, and that I had meant every word of it.

I looked over at our friend and now family doctor (who else would we trust?). "Watson, you save my life that first night, and didn't mind when I snapped at you – must have been used to it, but where from?" Everyone laughed a little. Dang, butterball was rubbing off on me! "You took me home, and helped me fit in, and helped me figure out my heart when I thought for sure there was no chance I'd be here tonight like this. Thank you for being there and for remaining our friend." The tears he wiped away told me that Watson was touched, but I meant it all.

On to butterball. "I'm still annoyed about that afternoon you first showed up at Baker Street, Mycroft." Everyone chuckled at that, but Mycroft simply sat back and smirked! Did he not know that I was not playing? "But it brought us an amazing adventure, and helped Sherlock and I get closer – even if you derailed that a time or two. I just hope you are there when we need to be put back on track as well."

"Daddy, I thought that you and my family wouldn't be here and it hurt now and again while the girls and I pulled this wedding together. Then I heard a certain little girl demanding for a hug," that got many laughs that became louder as Ashley stood up and proclaimed that I was talking about her. "Yes, Ashley dragged me back to the house and everyone was here. You will never realize how happy that made me. But now, my happiness is here beside me, in Sherlock."

I had to fight off my tears as I kept going. "Mommy, you made a great toast. And I do have my dreams at last. And I promise to keep in contact." Everyone chuckled and I turned to my new dad. "Dad, thanks for everything. You helped me get my memory back. And even helped Sherlock and I get back together. I just hope that all the bad is gone." Dad nodded and smiled as the others clapped.

I curtsied to Victoria and smiled. "Thank you for you sweet words, Your Majesty. I have never felt as blessed as I have tonight, but your words helped to make this wedding more than any of my dreams."

Then I looked over at my best friend for too long to not say anything. "Trish, I have to thank you too. If you hadn't come back, I would have died. You gave me back my life, and my oldest friend as well. Thanks girl."

After all of that, Sherlock and I cut the wedding cake. The top tier was saved for our first child's christening (though neither of us had any idea why, we just knew that no one was going to eat from it ever). The cake itself was a really moist fruitcake that was frosted with a thick and sweet icing. Some traditions suck, give me plain cake and butter cream icing any day. But it was nice to do something together. Then I was introduced to another little tradition. Inside the cake had been charms. Ironically, Trish got the charm meaning that she would be married before the end of the year. Sherlock and I were still determined to follow our plan though – just to help superstition this once.

After dinner, Sherlock and I decided that it was time to set fate into motion so that dad would have his Christmas wish come true. According to Sherlock, the men were not hard to convince. I, however, did have to plead and finally give a brief account of the plan for the ladies, but they all agreed after that. It was not tradition in a fancy wedding like this for the garter toss, but we were hoping that with all the gentlemen who were hovering near Trish for a chance with her that Mycroft would interfere.

All of the ladies, including Trish, were gathered in the center of the room. I turned around to make it all seem legitimate. On three I tossed the flowers into the air, and right to target they landed in Trish's hands. She blushed and seemed to groan mentally when she saw all the suitors whose eyes were targeting her. That is until, when the next dance began, Mycroft asked to dance with her – heading off the wolves and falling for the trap! Both fell and looked like they wanted no help getting up out of the hole at all. Dad smirked and nodded his satisfaction at our little trick. He looked to be counting the days before wedding plans were hatched once again.

***

Mom helped me get ready to go after Sherlock and I set up butterball and my best friend. There was NO way I was going on my honeymoon in that dress with all of its tiny buttons! It took time to get out of my gown (the main reason I was NOT wearing it oh my honeymoon night!), but changing into my traveling dress wasn't that hard. I didn't want to wear make up that night, so I washed my face before I finished changing. After I changed and was in the bathroom looking in the mirror, I was so scared that I was dreaming. I prayed that if I were that I would live in this dream for the rest of eternity.

Looking at my left hand, gone was the diamond and garnet ring. In its place was a plain gold band. I looked and found mine and Sherlock's initials and our wedding date engraved on the inside – WSSH-NEB 01-25-1883. It was official. I was Mrs. Sherlock Holmes at last. It still felt surreal. Mom smiled at me as I came out of the bathroom. "Yes, you are married to him now baby." Shaking my head, I smiled. "Do I have 'Am I Dreaming?' tattoo on my forehead?" Mom chuckled, "no, but I remember how I felt when I was getting ready to go on my honeymoon. You looked how I felt then." And then there was a knock on the door.

"I believe I am allowed in here now, am I right, Lady Nona Holmes?" Sherlock chuckled with that mischievous grin I hoped our sons too would one day carry as he came into the room. I giggled as I ran into his open arms and relished the feel of his embrace. "I love you, Sherlock."

He rubbed my back and took claim on my lips, a claim I fully returned on his. This was my husband and only love. For the first time in so long, I was certain about where and who I was. When we broke our kiss, I looked and saw that his eyes were two deep pools of dark gray silk. It was a first, and I was hypnotized by it. "I love you more, my Lady Nona. And I will spend the rest of my days proving just that."

Mom chuckled. "I think we should get you two off to the station before you decide to have a hometown honeymoon."

I couldn't help but chuckle at that. The silk in my husband's (I love saying that) eyes lit up and sparkled. And it was me who had caused it to happen. Have to say that made me feel beyond cherished.

He grabbed my last two bags and offered mom and I his elbows. Mom grinned, knowing that I had someone to watch over me in this new past age. "Thank you son." I swear she enjoyed calling such a famous man her son.

Sherlock just loved having a mother in his life again – no matter how short a time it was to be for. "You are welcome, mother." I beamed him a smile.

Mom too was beaming in joy, pride, and love. "Call me mom, son. After all, that is what your wife calls me." I could see in her eyes that she loved saying that. Sherlock too had a look of pure pleasure when he looked at me. "Yes, mom. Thank you for everything."

She stopped us just before we made it to the stairs. "Just take good care of my baby girl. And remember I can research it and find out if you do or not." The grin on her face told me that she was playing, Sherlock chuckled and that told me that he saw mom's tease as well. "Nona is my life now. I will never let her regret our marriage."

That was enough for mom. We went down the stairs to applauses from everyone we cared about. I know that I wasn't the only one to see how close Trish and Mycroft were to one another (his hand on her far shoulder in fact, with hers covering his – promising). Sherlock grinned at it too and winked at me, our plan was working well.

We ran through a shower of rice and got into the carriage that would have taken me to the church. As we settled in the carriage a left slipper landed on my lap with a note stuffed in it.

Hey Girlie,

The two of you deserve all of the good luck in the universe, because of all of the good deeds you both have and will do together.

T&M

We chuckled at it and I waved goodbye to everyone, but mostly to my friend and new brother. I settled back and into my husband's arms and smiled up at him. "Christmas at the latest."

"What do you mean, my beautiful wife?" That got a chuckle from Mr. St. Clair. We shared that chuckle with him. "I mean that Mycroft is going to be coming by Baker Street to ask for mom's engagement ring." I rubbed its band with my thumb where it then set, on my right hand. Sherlock agreed with me, as did Mr. St. Clair (though he swore to keep it secret from the pair – he wanted to see what unfolded as well).

Mycroft had set up a special train for us, just to the boat for the continent! It was an engine with the fuel car and a club car, with snacks, drinks, and plenty of seating (several we could snuggle together on in fact). We waved goodbye to Mr. St. Clair from one of the windows, and then were on our own. For the first time, I was nervous. I guess that Sherlock saw it, because he wrapped his arms around me and held me close. "Not yet, Nona. Not on a train, not our first time."

It took all of my self-control (like I have much in the first place mind you) to keep from crying. I held tight to him and breathed in deep. In his arms I was home. When I looked up into his eyes I could see that he felt the same. Slowly my hands slid up his chest and wrapped around his neck as he pulled me even closer. We just started to move to the music in the peace around us – the stillness in the car, the sound of the train moving, and the beating of our hearts. For a long time that was all we did. Soon though I was snuggling closer to him from lack of sleep. Even if his presence in the house made sleeping easier, I still woke a couple times in the night. Then next thing I knew he had me in his arms once again (I would never get enough of him doing this ladies!). A moment later I was resting on a Chaise lounge and Sherlock was cuddling close to me. "Sleep now, Nona. It has been an exciting few days."

The next thing I remember is waking to his chuckle. The train was slowing down. "Where are we?" Sitting up in a corset is murder ladies, this I know … at least after I winced and Sherlock had to help me get into a sitting position to clear the sleep from my head. "Were are at the boat for the Continent, Mrs. Holmes. As you only saw a spare view of France, and I do have a favor owed me there, we are to start our honeymoon tour with the French countryside." My eyes must have nearly popped out of my head with the smirk and chuckles Sherlock was shaking with. A few hours later and we were across the Channel and settled into a quaint French villa that I later discovered was owned by Sherlock as inheritance from Vernet through his sister.

It was small and romantic. No city noise, only the insects to sing for us. Seven rooms (only one bedroom mind you), indoor plumbing (wonder if Sherlock or Mycroft had anything to do with that), and private. There was a very small courtyard in front that was no bigger than our sitting room at home. In it was a fountain a few benches and flowers. There were roses and night blooming jasmine (one of my favorites) growing just outside our bedroom window. Speaking of the window, it opened onto a small quarter balcony – just big enough for the two of us to sit and relax. A double bed surrounded with white thin curtains that was all set for a wedding night stood again the wall opposite that window.

Looking at that bed, I was still nervous. This was where everything changed, but would I ruin it for him? Sherlock rested his hands on my shoulders and began to give me an amazing massage. "We don't have to now, Nona. I won't force you ever." I had to smile. Turning around I could see just how worried for me he was too. "I'm just nervous, because I want tonight to be special for us both." He relaxed at that and smiled at me. "As long as we are together it will be special, ma belle jeune mariée." At the stunned look on my face he chuckled and brushed my cheeks with his thumbs. "My beautiful bride."

"I'd better get ready then." It took some doing to talk Sherlock into only helping me out of my corset (receiving open mouthed kisses from him all over my neck as he did), but I wanted to see his reaction when he saw my lingerie. He had already seen my body a year before, now he was about to see it dressed up a bit. Floor length ivory silk chemise with a cream lace robe. Leaving the robe open, I slid out of the bathroom to find him in his mouse colored dressing robe and obviously his usual gown. I felt very underdressed and a fool for trying to dress as if we were a couple of my age! Before I could get back in the bathroom (forgot to mention it is connected to our room didn't I?), Sherlock turned around and gasped. His eyes were wide in shock – oh, man I obviously went way overboard.

I couldn't look up at him, knowing that I probably broke a hundred rules and wrecked everything. "Too revealing?" When his hands rested on either side of my face so gently, I was stunned. "It is perfect. You are beautiful, Nona. More so than the you in my memory and dreams." I couldn't help but blush at that. What was I supposed to do or say now? For a few minutes we just stood there, easy to deduce that he didn't know how to continue either. I looked up into his gray eyes and smiled. He looked so nervous, uneasier in appearance than I felt. Taking the initiative, I stepped closer and rested my head on his chest. "You get to hold me now you know."

That bit of comedy broke through the uncertainty. Sherlock pulled me close and chuckled. "I know my dear, dear Nona. I simply wish to not rush you into anything that you are not ready for." He was holding back for me? I smiled and fought the urge to shake some sense into this man. All I had dreamed about for months now was being his and this night. "Sherlock, I'm ready. Don't mistake my nervousness for unwillingness. I love you; I just remember what Trish went through and how she described it. But she was a kid and she didn't want it to happen to her. Dan liked hearing Trish scream and that was why I caught them. I know that you will not hurt me to simply hear me scream." That seemed to stun my new husband. Still, he smiled as those beautiful gray eyes of his darkened with his passion. "I will never hurt you willingly of my best judgment."

After that we were lost in one another for the rest of the night. I will not give up details of that area of our night, even being of not a strict a moral as most women of this time – I do NOT kiss or more and tell. Yes, it hurt at the start – though nowhere as bad as I had feared, and the pain was gone in only a few moments. After that was pleasure that I was glad to have as my own alone. Once we were exhausted, Holmes held me close as I drifted off into the sweetest dreams I have ever had. When I woke a few hours later, the sun was rising, and I was alone in the bed. If it weren't for the disorientingly different room and no Mrs. Hudson waking me (along with a slight bit of discomfort in my lower body) I would have sworn that it was all a dream. And then I found my husband seated in the corner of the room, watching me.

I smiled as he sat there analyzing me, and maybe my mind. The sun slowly crept into the room, and his expression barely changed, but it was in a way and enough that I knew he was entranced by whatever it was in me that he saw. "Coming back to bed, handsome? It is a bit lonely laying here alone." His eyes lit up and sparkled and I chuckled at the sight. "First things first, Mrs. Holmes." Faster and with more precision of movement than should be legal for a man, he shut up the windows and drew heavy, dark curtains to block out the light near completely. Then he slipped back under the covers with me. "Too much light would make it difficult to sleep, as we both know my dear Lady Nona Holmes." Then we, well at least I for sure, got back to sleep.

After a couple days there we dipped down into Spain to visit and old friend of Sherlock's who raised prized horses. One of his horses caught my eye and my heart. She was beautiful! A rare all black Kabdara with a small silver star on her forehead a mane and tail as black as her body. Old Gilando had only then received the gentle girl and hadn't named her, so he asked me what she should be called. I looked her over and petted her, wishing so desperately that she was mine. No, I still did not like to ride; still I'd learn to love it with this girl. Just pretending that she was mine I gave her a name that suited her well – Onyx Queen. Sherlock chuckled, and old Gilando smirked as he nodded. "Then Onyx Queen she shall now be. Shall the two of you stay for some lunch? It has been too long to have my old friend here, but to have his new wife as well is a special treat to say the least."

We stayed, but while the men went off to see about some old clue Sherlock had left with Gilando I stayed at the window and watched Onyx Queen play in the pen we had left her in. She acted so happy, but seemed to be looking at me from time to time. As if she was making sure that I was still watching her. I was so entranced by her that I didn't notice the men come back until Sherlock rested a hand on my shoulder, startling me. "Sorry. Are you enjoying yourself, my Lady?"

The way he would call me that was wonderful. I could see in his eyes that he knew exactly how I felt. "And then some. She's a beautiful horse. A prideful creature that seems to only allow a few close. Three of the handlers tried to get her, but she gets away from them and their ropes. They grumbled it seemed when they finally left her alone. Since then she's been playing in front of me, but always seems to look for my watch." Sherlock and Gilando both chuckled, but it was the older man who spoke first. "A fitting description of both ladies it would seem. And Onyx Queen, she seems to be watching her Lady closely because she is trying to gain your heart and trust." At first I longed inside that it was me she did belong to … no, with. No creature that beautiful could ever be owned, only befriended. And then it hit me. "Her Lady?"

Sherlock and Gilando both laughed hard. I looked back out at the rare horse and was shocked, it just couldn't be! Onyx Queen was mine? Gilando sighed as he got his laughter under control. "Yes, Lady Holmes, the Queen is yours. She is my gift to you for making my old friend here so happy. Call her my wedding gift to you." My heart raced with joy. Sherlock rubbed my arms and whispered in my ear, "a Queen for my own Queen." I looked up at him and smiled. He saw me as a Queen, just as he would forever be my King. God, I had to stop sounding like Watson! Even if it was only in my mind. I looked over at Gilando and beamed. "I don't know how to thank you. She is so beautiful!" The old man took my hand a kissed it before giving me a wink. "As to thanking me, there is no need. She is my gift to you for making my old friend happy. And yes, the Queen is a beauty." Without another word the three of us went back to the paddock to visit my horse. Onyx Queen seemed to know she was mine now. When we got to the fence she extended both of her forelegs and bowed to me!

When we got ready to leave, I rubbed her neck. "Onyx, Sherlock and I are still on our honeymoon. You are going to go to Oakstaff in England. I'll be there every month, but you'll live with our family. There is a little boy named Virgil, he can play with you if you like him. He's a sweet kid. So, you be a good girl. I'll see you before Sherlock and I go home to London. Okay?" She snorted and nodded her head. Somehow I just knew that she understood me. Just after we left, Onyx Queen left Spain for her new home in England.

***

Sherlock and I then went back through Spain and France into Belgium. I was so happy to find such wonderful chocolate! For some reason I had been craving it for a few days. We spent a couple of days in Mons, which is the capital of the Belgium province Hainaut. We saw the City Hall; a gothic building that impressed me. It seemed that my husband knew it all too well – as he pointed out the windows to the offices of many officials he has had to visit in the past for one case or another. We walked by the Belfry Tower and took in a couple of museums. Stayed in a quaint inn whose owner made extra certain that we were not disturbed. In all, I loved it. Then we were off to Brussels (I HATE BRUSSEL SPROUTS!), the capital of the country. A lot of gothic buildings to say the least. The Town Square on the other hand was beautiful, even with all of the buildings. It was nice to be with Sherlock, just wandering around with nothing to do but explore. The Royal Park and Royal Square reminded me of home, as in my new home of London.

When I told that to Sherlock, he let go of a laugh. He was glad that was what I meant by home and feeling a little home sick. That was why my stomach was queasy, I was just home sick. Sherlock at first wanted to go home, but I was enjoying being a bride enjoying her honeymoon. After my pouting (I was only upset because I felt I was ruining it all) he finally agreed to see our planned honeymoon to the end. A little more sight seeing and we went on to our next stop – the city of Antwerp. The second largest city in Belgium. It was on a harbor, but still brought home to my mind, though I never said so to my husband. Sherlock bought me a beautiful single diamond bracelet to go with the necklace that Watson had given me for that first Christmas we all were together.

Then the two of us were pulled in on a case that neither of us were ready to say no to – honeymoon or no. Given the nature of the crime and who was involved (along with my true history being revealed) I have been sworn to secrecy as to the full account. All I am allowed to mention in any form is this. A little nine-year-old girl was taken from her room in the middle of the night. What was notable was this girl was the daughter of a high-ranking government official with ties to Mycroft who sent us word – asking us to intercede with apologies for the interruption. Seeing that my dear husband was genuinely interested in the case, and I wanted to find that child, we took it as our first case as husband and wife.

What scared me was this was vaguely similar to that kid in Utah, I wondered to myself if she would be all right and would ever be found. Shaking it off, I went about with the normal interview. She had been missing forty-eight hours, but there was no ransom note. At first it looked like there wasn't a lot to go on, until we searched her room. Reading Watson's accounts of the case he and Sherlock dealt with, and watching shows like CSI, rubbed off on me. Right away I found what the official police missed – a patch of mud that had to have been swiped off the shoe of the abductor by accident, since there was only a little there. The local Inspector (A/N: I don't know if they are called Inspectors in Belgium, but for the sake of the story let's say they do until I am informed otherwise) showed up and had an attitude towards me that was worse than LaRat's the first day I met him! Before Sherlock could say a word, the girl's father stepped in and pointed out how a woman could spot vital clues better than the local police and he would have to look into the matter. That was enough to silence the Inspector. The twinkle in Sherlock's eyes was more than enough. The father had gained my husband's respect.

It would seem that Watson's stories came to our rescue again in this case. A little boy (age 11) named Peter, who seemed to be an inspiring consulting detective and was a friend to the girl, begged to help us. He became very useful as an honorary Irregular by gathering his friends from all walks of life in the city to become Irregulars as well. It was almost like home. On the fourth day of the investigation, we were going over the sample yet again when a young voice said, "that's from the piers I think." It was Peter! He told us of how he wanted to know every part of Antwerp like Sherlock knows London. I could help but grin at that. In fact Peter was able to point us to the correct building on the correct pier because of his having gone by the day before after a rain.

Getting to the pier an hour later, we split up to cover more ground (though Sherlock disliked the element of danger I was facing on my own). Then I heard it! "Come on pretty. Time to go to Brussels and make me some money." The voice was gruff, and I could just hear a soft whimpering. I turned around to see one of the local Irregulars jogging towards me, so I waved frantically. It was enough to get him to pick up his pace. Aren gasped when he saw the girl the man was dragging out of the small shack. "That's her Mrs. Holmes!" If I didn't do something fast, we'd lose her and it would be my fault! "Go get Sherlock now!" Aren nodded and ran faster than I thought he could. I still needed to buy him time to find my husband and for Sherlock to get to me. Then I noticed my chance.

There was a rope the man was coming up on. If I got it and held it up just right, he'd trip! Keeping myself hid, I got the rope and did what I could to keep from shaking. Three steps away the girl starts to cry. "Shut up or I'll give you something to cry about. Wanna go home and get another lesson?" That quieted her. God, she had been abused by the monster! Two steps away a hand rested on my shoulder and a familiar voice breathed in my ear quietly, "creative, Nona. Very creative." Sherlock had made it in time! One step away, I lifted the rope and felt Sherlock grab hold to help. Then it was done. The scum hit the boards and let go of the girl in an effort to protect himself. Before he could get up, Sherlock had a gun on him, and the girl was in my arms. A few days later I testified to what I had heard and the man was executed. It seems he did this for a living. Raping young girls after kidnapping them from their homes. Many of the few children found were dead, dying, pregnant, had small families of their own, or were so emotionally scarred that I wondered if any amount of love from their families would heal them a bit.

What was lucky was the little girl had been only been abused once on that one day. Sherlock and I felt we had failed by not getting to her sooner. But, he father pointed out she would have been completely lost without our help. Still we accepted no payment at all. Just as we were going to leave she came in the room holding a doll and her mother's hand. "[She] (A/N: remember no name people) wishes to say her goodbyes."

The girl looked like any child should; yet there was this shadow of age in her eyes. Her innocence was gone, but she was fighting still. I knelt down and was instantly in the tightest hug I had ever gotten before. "Thank you for bringing me home to my mummy and daddy." She whispered in my ear. Then she laid a package in my hand. She hugged and gave a similar package to Sherlock, and then left waving to us.

In my package was a small doll ornament, while Sherlock had the same but his was a boy while mine was a girl. "From her holiday tree. She adores the small ornaments on the tree we put up in her room every year, those two being her favorites." Her father explained, but would not hear of taking them back. They were and still are among the most treasured of rewards that the two of us have received in our lives.

Next we were off to Amsterdam, Holland and treated to the best of everything as a wedding gift from his clients. We took in the sights, traveled canals, went to the Artis Zoo, walked the beach together (still have shells from that trip). We took in a couple of concerts, went to the Hortus (a botanical garden and the jewel of the city) several times, we even saw the gutter grave. Sherlock shook his head at it, and I have to agree. I would have just made arrangements to be buried in a Catholic cemetery, but that is me.

Next was Switzerland. And I thought the chocolate in Belgium was great, I was in chocolate lover's heaven! It was beautiful as well! We ended up in Meiringen; staying in the inn we would stay at in the future case that would nearly end my husband's life – the Englischer Hof. Peter Steiler was everything I expected from Watson's description. We were the only ones in the inn besides his family there so privacy was no issue. The landlord's wife was a sweet woman, and his son Peter was excited to help us – though Watson's writings had not made their way to the little town. That relieved Sherlock to my mirth. After a couple of days, we decided to take the future trip to the hamlet of Rosenlaui and see the Reichenbach falls ourselves.

After a little over ten minutes or so we were there. And it shook me to my core. Going up was a terrifying (to me at least) noise. I read somewhere once that it was described like water mixed with fire. For me it was the cry of a death omen. Sherlock just pulled me closer to him as we walked, and I relished his touch. We walked the narrow path and soon were past the noise into this silence above it. It was a scary possibility of what my life would be like without him – empty and silent. 'A fearful place' did not cut it at all in the form of description. Then again it brought to my mind of all the things that just might go wrong in too short a time. That certainly made it more sinister to me. A long drop of six hundred and fifty-six feet, and I already could nearly hear Moriarty cursing us from the Aare River below. Can you tell I have looked up the facts before? Can you tell how scared I was by just reading this? Sherlock went over that place for over an hour before we finally left. He saw that I was near tears and decided that the trip had been a mistake, but I told him I wanted him to know the place so that he would have the advantage when the day would come.

Rosenlaui was a pretty place, but my mind and heart were battling with possibilities and nightmare visions of my wearing black for life. Sherlock and I returned to the Englischer Hof after only a couple of days. Every night after we visited the falls he held me tight and tried not to leave me sleeping alone when I might wake.

Next we went to Italy and saw many towns and villages. Spent most of our honeymoon there in fact. There were still some places where we were not famous, but in the places where we were there seemed to be little bands of Irregulars waiting for any chore the two of us wanted done. Sherlock took it on himself to give them some small means of training in detective work – which most of the kids loved. We were lucky to be called to see the Pope the day we made it to the Vatican. Pope Leo XIII it seems was a fan of Watson's writings! Oh, Sherlock was fit to be tied from that! But he and Leo (we were given the privilege to call him such as his friends) talk about crime and the stories, along with seemingly thousands of other items. I trusted the man with my secret and he was stunned with the problems the church would someday face, as was my husband. Leo knew for him to move would alter history, but he was determined to seek out those who did such and punish the ones brought to him justly. Maybe messing with history can be a good thing. But then again, maybe I was supposed to tell him about it. No way to know for certain. Then we talked about the future at large, and he and Sherlock were both stunned about bathing suits, the environment, school violence, and what teachers would have to do to get marginally decent wages and credit. We had lunch and dinner both with Leo, along with touring the Vatican. He blessed our marriage and each of us himself before we left and we both smiled at the wonderful friend and memories we had made that day.

We went back to Oakstaff about a week after that. It was certainly nice to be on English soil again, as well as our second home. The first place we stopped at was the stables and found Virgil riding Onyx Queen with a big smile on his face. In fact, if I didn't know better, I would swear my precious Queen was smiling as well. Then they both saw me. "Aunt Nona! Uncle Sherlock!"

Onyx Queen bowed to me and Virgil jumped off her back. In a split second it seemed her was in my arms. "I missed you both bunches!" Sherlock was chuckling, and I just smiled as my Queen rose and walked to me. My husband simply grinned. "Obviously Onyx Queen has taken to you." Virgil beamed as he rushed over and grabbed my husband's leg before being lifted into his arms. "Yes Uncle Sherlock. She likes me and always lets me ride her. Daddy said I could since she was always so gentle with me."

I went to my Queen and smiled. "Thanks girl. Told you he's a sweetie. Do you like your new home?" Onyx neighed and nodded her head. I fed and walked her before seeing her tuck away in her stall for the night. Dad was happy to see us back and in smiles. Sherlock and I were glad to see our little plan was working very well as we were also greeted by both of our brothers, Holly, and Trish. Mycroft was in all praise about our organization and success in Belgium. Trish was more interested in listening to him than girl talking, a very good sign. But we had been gone from London for a long time. After a ride on Onyx, which turned out to be the best ride of my life, we got ready to leave. Then my stomach decided to be a pain again. I wasn't feeling well and agreed to see Watson in a medical capacity once we got home. What a surprise he had for Sherlock and I!

I hope everyone likes the additions to this chapter. It was SOOOO long I had to break it up a bit.

Wedding toasts came from:

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