*DALLAS, TEXAS*

Vincent and Catherine landed at DFW airport and picked up their luggage at baggage claim. A Lincoln town car was waiting for them in the front by arrivals.

Vincent was in town on business and after everything Catherine had endured with Heather being kidnapped, he couldn't bear to leave her alone.

Forty-five minutes later, they arrived at The Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas. The hotel was right off Main Street across from Neiman Marcus.

Catherine's mouth flew open as they entered the lobby of the hotel. The decor was unusual and bold. Two giant cog wheels were situated by the front desk, and slowly rotated around. An enormous reading table was in the lobby where guests could read Taschen books from the Taschen Bookstore, also located in the lobby. The lobby had a tech feel, but with style and sophistication. The bar had an upscale but cozy vibe with big plush chairs. A Charlie Palmer restaurant was nestled in the corner with exquisite furnishings.

The uniquely decorated lobby inspired one to think outside the box of normal designs.

Catherine smiled at Vincent, because she realized he had more than just a business trip planned.

"Catherine, this week is about you. Whatever you desire, consider it done," Vincent said.

"Vincent, why do I always end up crying every time we go somewhere," she said.

He took her hand and said, "As long as they're happy tears, cry all you want, as he wiped a tear from her eye, and kissed her forehead.

Vincent prearranged everything, so they didn't have to check in.

Catherine was beginning to see that Vincent just wanted to keep a smile on her face.

As they stepped off the elevator, they were fascinated by the general splendor of the hallway. Natural wood sculptures, exquisite artwork, and a hallway that ran the length of a runway.

Once again, Vincent surprised Catherine, as they walked into the penthouse suite. Two bedrooms, two and a half baths, library, dining room and a kitchen.

Catherine walked into the master bedroom and was amazed again. The room had floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the Dallas skyline, plus there was a fireplace and even a telescope.

"Mr. Keller, what am I going to do with you?" she asked.

He looked at her with a sneaky grin and before he could answer, she said, "cool your jets sir."

Vincent smiled and said, "Seriously, I want you to relax and just enjoy yourself."

Vincent noticed Catherine was emotionally drained after her sister was kidnapped and he wanted to pamper and spoil her, because she needed and deserved it. He felt guilty for the turmoil she experienced at the thought of having to lose him to save her sister. He vowed to make it up to her, because he was the reason she faced such a mental struggle.

There was a knock at the door and Vincent answered it. A line of people walked in and Catherine had a puzzled look on her face.

"Catherine, I have a business meeting, but I have given everyone instructions on what to do, so just relax and they will do the rest. Meet me downstairs at six o' clock," Vincent said, before he kissed her and left.

Catherine didn't know what to say or do. Vincent treated her like a princess and she was happy to be so loved. She wished he would let her surprise him sometimes though.

Vincent arranged to have her nails, toes, and hair done. A rack of dresses were brought in, so she could choose a dress to wear, as well as a selection of jewelry and shoes. Vincent had thought of everything.

Catherine looked into the mirror admiring the long cascading curls in her hair. She had on a red Zac Posen silk halter gown with diamond embellished silver Jimmy Choo shoes, diamond earrings, and a diamond necklace. She was drop dead gorgeous. She felt nervous as if she was meeting Vincent for their first date.

She took the elevator down to the lobby promptly at six o' clock. Vincent stood in the lobby in a Ralph Lauren Black Label Tuxedo. He looked so dashing, he could have been on the front cover of GQ magazine. When he saw Catherine, he was mesmerized and speechless. He was transfixed with every step she took.

As she stepped in front of him he said, "Wow, you look stunning," with the eyes of a man, who was in love with who, and what he saw.

"Thank you, you look rather handsome yourself, Mr. Keller," Catherine said.

Vincent was elated to have Catherine on his arm, and he wanted to give her the world. When they exited the hotel, a limousine was waiting out front. Catherine smiled, because she knew he had put a lot of thought, time and money into making her happy.

Thirty minutes later the limousine stopped. The driver opened the door and they stepped out. Catherine looked around and they were at a lake. The scenery was captivating. Water for miles, tree-lined, cobblestone walkways with tall buildings as the backdrop and waterfalls in the distance. Vincent took Catherine's hand and they walked towards the lake. A gondola with a gondolier was there waiting. Vincent helped Catherine into the gondola and their romantic ride began. The water was so clear, it was if they were looking into a mirror.

"Vincent, how am I ever to surprise you?" Catherine asked.

"I like spoiling you. You are my queen and you deserve it," Vincent said.

A picnic was set up on the gondola. It consisted of caviar, smoked salmon, oysters, and champagne. As they began to eat, the gondolier sung a romantic Italian song and then he reached into the water and pulled a bottle, with a message in it, out of the water. He gave the bottle to Catherine and she took the message out and read it.

The message said: "A broken bottle brought us together and our hearts fell in love. This bottle is my promise to you that I will never break your heart. Love, Vincent."

Just as the sun was setting on the horizon, Vincent took a black box out of his pocket and got down on one knee.

Catherine, when I met you my life changed for the better. You gave me purpose, direction, and most importantly, your love. We have been through so much in the last few months and you have stayed by my side through everything. You have accepted all of me and I feel I am the luckiest man alive. Just seeing your beautiful smile makes me happy. You are the sun that brightens my day and my shining light in darkness. Waking up and looking into your eyes is like waking up in paradise. I can't imagine waking up without you, so I'm down on one knee, asking you to be my wife and wake up next to me everyday forever.

"Yes, Yes," Catherine said, as tears ran down her face.

He slid the ring on her finger and it fit perfectly. It was a two carat aura solitaire ring.

"I love it, Vincent," Catherine said, before they kissed.

The gondolier told them even though they were far away from Venice, Italy, they had fulfilled part of the local legend from there, by kissing on a gondola at sunset under a bridge. It meant they would be granted eternal love and bliss.

As they emerged from under the bridge, a plane flew by with a banner that read:

SHE SAID YES.

Then fireworks went off in the sky.

Catherine was speechless as they held hands and kissed while fireworks exploded in the sky.

Their ride ended on the gondola and as they walked from the lake, a helicopter was on a helipad in the distance. Vincent looked at Catherine and said, "Our ride is here."

"Mr. Keller, you are the best fiancé ever," Catherine said, smiling.

The helicopter landed on a rooftop and they descended from it. On the rooftop was a makeshift dance floor with tall vases of red roses surrounding it.

"The Waves of the Danube" begin to play on the stereo and Vincent looked over at Catherine and said, "I believe they're playing our song," as he took her hand and led her to the dance floor. As they began to waltz, a spotlight beamed down on them. At that moment Vincent proceeded to get down on one knee.

"Catherine, you have accepted to marry my human side, and now I ask you, will you marry my beast side?"

Catherine answered, "Yes." She knew he was asking her to marry him and accept him for who and what he was, which included his beast.

Vincent handed her one single rose and said, "This rose symbolizes the beauty that tamed this beast. I love you Catherine and you have made me more happy than any money or material possessions ever could have." He kissed her lips as they embraced and their passion exploded with both hearts in sync and the stars twinkling above.

*The Morning After*

Vincent opened his eyes to find Catherine straddling him with her honey treasure encompassing his magic stick. She whispered in his ear, "I'm hungry and I'm feeling insatiable. I hope you're up to the challenge because my appetite is ferocious."

She tied his hands with scarves, as she commandeered his body and then she moved her hips, her hands on his chest, briefly pausing, until he begged for more. His eyes rolled in the back of his head as he shouted "Catherine, please, don't stop, don't. ...stop."

"Oh you want more Mr. Keller?" She shifted from fourth to fifth gear and sent him into sexual overdrive. Their bodies shook as they traveled on clouds and passed rainbows until their sweet nectar flowed freely. Catherine looked into Vincent's eyes as they began to fall low with his body showcasing the sweat from lover's paradise.

"Why Mr. Keller, you look like you've been ridden hard and put away wet."

*EIGHT MONTHS LATER*

Catherine and Vincent decided to get married in Dallas, Texas

*THE JOULE HOTEL*

FRIDAY MORNING

April 28th introduced itself with sunny skies and a gentle breeze. Dallas weather was looking ideal for an April wedding.

The sun rose to find Catherine and Vincent laying in bed cuddling.

"Are you getting nervous?" Vincent asked.

"A little," Catherine replied.

"Are you sure you don't want me to spend the night with you?" Vincent asked.

"No, it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding." Catherine replied.

Vincent could tell Catherine was struggling with the idea of sleeping alone for the first time in months. He didn't want to leave her either, but it was the day before their wedding, and Catherine was superstitious about him seeing her before the wedding.

"So, what's on your agenda for today?" Vincent asked.

"Last minute errands, but Heather should be here by this evening to help me." Catherine said.

"Do you need me to help you with anything?" Vincent asked.

"No, Tess will be flying in as well, so I'll have plenty of help. What time is J.T. arriving?" Catherine asked.

"About three. We booked a hotel room close to the chapel, so we won't have to fight traffic tomorrow," Vincent said.

"Should I be worried about you tonight?" Catherine asked, giving Vincent a quizzical look.

"No, we are staying in the room. We will probably have a few beers and catch up," Vincent said.

"I'm going to miss sleeping under you tonight," Catherine said, looking at Vincent with sad eyes.

"I know, me too. It's only one night and then you're stuck with me forever. Are you ready for that?" Vincent asked, as he hugged Catherine.

"Are you having doubts, Mr. Keller?" Catherine asked, with a curious look.

Vincent hugged Catherine tighter and said, "Never, I can't imagine my life without you. You're the only woman for me and I love you. I think I loved you ever since the first night we kissed. So don't worry, I'll be there tomorrow."

Vincent kissed Catherine passionately.

"Ok, Mr. Keller, don't get too excited. None of that until tomorrow night," Catherine said, pushing Vincent away.

"Ok, ok, but, tomorrow, you are totally making it up to me," Vincent said, smiling.

"I will and then some, so don't fall asleep on me," Catherine said, laughing.

"Are you calling me out, Catherine Chandler? You are going to pay tomorrow night," Vincent said, as he started tickling Catherine.

*LATER THAT EVENING*

"Cat are you sure you don't want to go out?" Heather asked.

"You and Tess can go. I'll be fine," Catherine said.

"Cat, this is your last night of feedom. You have the rest of the life to stay at home," Heather said.

"I know, but I've been doing so much I need to rest for tomorrow," Catherine said.

"I don't know why you didn't have the wedding in New Orleans. It would have been easier," Heather said.

"Because, I found the perfect little chapel here," Catherine said.

"Ok, so what are we doing tonight?" Tess said, as she walked through the door.

"Cat wants to stay home tonight," Heather said.

"Cat, I am not letting you lay here and miss Vincent all night. He will be fine. You will have the rest of your lives together, so enjoy your last night of freedom. Now get dressed, lets go see what Dallas is about," Tess said.

Catherine reluctantly got up and started to get dress. She knew she was fighting a losing battle with Tess and Heather. She hated going out. She just wanted to lay on Vincent's chest and watch a movie like they did every Friday night. She wondered what he and J.T. were doing. She kept dialing his number and hanging up before the phone rang.

VINCENT AND J.T.

"Are you ready to enjoy your last night being a single man?" J.T. asked

"I think I'll just stay in and watch TV," Vincent said.

"Dude, what is wrong with you? This is your night to let it all hang out," J.T. said

"I know man, but I'm not feeling it," Vincent said.

"You don't have to feel it, just enjoy it. Now get dressed and lets do this," J.T. said

Vincent was missing Catherine, but he was trying to be strong around J.T. He wanted her back in his arms. He knew it was going to be a long night.

April 29th

SATURDAY MORNING

WEDDING DAY

Tears ran down Catherine's face. She was overwhelmed by her emotions. She was going to be Mrs. Vincent Keller in four hours. She desperately wanted to hear Vincent's voice. Why hadn't be called? She started getting worried, then she felt anxious. Cat, calm down, he will be there, she kept telling herself.

"Cat, why arent you dressed yet?" Heather asked.

"I was wondering why Vincent hasn't called me. I tried calling him this morning and it went straight to voice mail," Catherine said

"Cat, he loves you, he will be there and I'm sure he's fine. He's probably getting dressed like you should be doing. We need to head to the chapel soon, so you can start getting dressed for the wedding."

"I just need to hear his voice," Cat said.

"It will be okay, trust me. You will be in his arms soon," Heather said, as she hugged Catherine.

"What's wrong Cat," Tess asked, as she walked into the room.

"I'm just worried about Vincent. I haven't heard from him," Catherine said, as her voice started to crack.

Just then Catherine's phone rung.

She looked at the caller id and her eyes lit up. It was Vincent!

"Hello."

"Hey, are you okay?" Vincent asked.

Vincent could sense something was wrong with Catherine.

"I was worried about you. I needed to hear your voice," Catherine said.

"Just a few more hours and we won't be separated again. I want you to enjoy our special day. Everything will be fine. I can't wait to see your beautiful face as you walk down the aisle to me. I have to get dressed, but I will see you soon."

"Okay, see you then."

"Catherine."

"Yes."

"I love you," Vincent said.

"I love you too," Catherine said.

Vincent knew Catherine was missing him, because he sensed it, and he missed her desperately, but he didn't want to get her worried. He was counting down the hours until they were reunited, as husband and wife.

"Do you feel better now?" Tess asked.

Cat shook her head yes

Okay, we need to head to the chapel, before it gets too late. The limo will be here soon," Heather said.

TWO HOURS LATER

BELLA DONNA CHAPEL

The limo pulled into the parking lot of Bella Donna Chapel. Heather and Tess were awestruck. The front gate opened to reveal a beautiful Croatian rock bridge that had a drawbridge feel to it. The chapel was surrounded by a lake. The view was breathtakingly awesome.

"Wow, Cat, it is so beautiful. Now I understand why you opted to have the wedding here?" Heather said.

"Cat, girl I am jealous, you are so lucky. And Vincent is paying for everything. Does he have any brothers?" Tess asked.

"No Tess."

They walked up to the chapel, so Catherine could get dressed. Catherine could feel her old friends, those butterflies, returning.

"Catherine gave her name to the lady inside and a group of people rushed over to her.

"Your fiancé has taken care of everything and he gave specific instructions that we were to make sure you were happy. I have to say you are one lucky lady," the lady said, smiling.

Two tall wooden doors revealed the inside of the chapel and it was even more beautiful inside. High cylindrical ceilings with dramatic chandeliers enhanced the magnificent structural design. A Juliette balcony and alcoves with statues served as a beautiful backdrop. With a European ambiance, you could very easily forget that you were in Texas. The chapel itself, was small but it made up for it in natural beauty. Deep gold tones on the walls gave the feel of elegance and sophistication. It was the perfect venue for a princess to marry her prince.

WEDDING TIME

Catherine and Vincent decided to have a small intimate wedding with friends, family, and coworkers.

Catherine wore an A-line Sophia Tolli wedding dress with a plunging strapless sweetheart neckline with rose flocking and a chapel length train. She had on Badgley Mischka peep-toe heels, diamond jewelry and her grandmother's blue broach. Her hair was in an updo with soft curls comimg down the sides of her face.

"Here Comes The Bride" started to play and Catherine's nerves were all over the place. She just needed to see Vincent's face to steady her nerves.

The wooden double doors opened and she took her first step towards her new future. She walked slowly down the aisle looking in front of her until her eyes met Vincent's eyes.

Vincent looked dashing, dressed in a black Armani Tuxedo with black shoes.

Vincent looked at Catherine and he was moved to tears. She was a vision to beheld. He didn't blink or look away, he took in every detail of her ensemble, as if photographing it with a camera. He couldn't believe this beautiful angel was going to be his wife.

Catherine looked at Vincent for support as she got closer until she was standing beside him. She was nervous, but seeing Vincent made it better. He looked dapper in black and she was grateful she was going to be his wife.

Minister: Please be seated.

I will now read a poem on marriage that I like to share with couples uniting for the first time.

Some advice on marriage for you

To have a happy marriage

Love, honor, and be true

Memories and time, always cherish

Never let the sun go down

With anger and resentment in your heart

Keep smiling when you want to frown

Respect your partner from the start

Whether happy or sad

Always keep God in the plan

Whether times are good or bad

Spend as much time together as you can

Show your love and appreciation

Smile through the tears

Pray without hesitation

And you'll be married for many years

Minister: We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony, commended to be honorable among all; and therefore is not to be entered into lightly, but reverently, passionately, lovingly, and solemnly. Into this, these two people present now, come to be joined. If any person can show just cause why they may not be joined together; let them speak now or forever hold their peace.

Vincent and Catherine looked around, both nervous, because they didnt know if Vincent's past would be walking through the door.

Minister: Vincent and Catherine prepared their own vows, so they will now exchange vows.

VINCENT'S VOWS

Once in a lifetime a door opens and an angel appears. Life as you know it changes forever. I know this, because I stand here looking in the very eyes that captured my attention and grabbed my heart. I never knew one person could incite so much happiness in me and brighten my day with just a smile. You complete me from my heart to deep within my soul. You are the rainbow that shines bright after the rain. From the rooftops to the skies I want to travel with you. Together we can overcome anything. I want to be your knight in shining armor, your confidante, your lover, your friend, and most of all your husband. He who finds a wife, finds a good thing, and I have found a diamond. You are my queen and I want to grow old with you. I stand here before God and everyone asking you Catherine Chandler, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife.

"Yes," Catherine said, with tears in her eyes.

CATHERINE'S VOWS

It has been said when you're not looking, the right man will find you. I know this to be true, because my prince found and rescued me. I thought only men like you existed in dreams. You are the air that dries my tears and the light that guides my steps. Every moment with you is like being a princess in a fairytale. You are my protector, provider, best friend, and I look forward to being your wife. As I take your hand I promise to love, honor, and cherish you. Through ups and downs, good and bad, I'll be the smile to reverse your frown. In the eyes of God and everyone, I ask you to join me on this journey called life. Would you do me the honor of becoming my husband?

"Yes," Vincent said, with tears in his eyes.

They then exchanged rings and lit a unity candle, followed by the minister saying a prayer.

"By the power vested in me by the State of Texas, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Vincent looked deeply into Catherine's eyes and took her face in his hands, as he kissed her.

Minister

"I present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Keller"

**********applause************

THE RECEPTION

Vincent and Catherine had their reception in a location by the chapel.

The room was decorated in red and gold with hints of ivory. Red roses filled hurricanes on each table. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling and candles were everywhere. Crystal glassware and gold charger plates covered each table with little red wedding favor boxes. Elegance and sophistication was displayed everywhere.

A lady announced the bride and groom was coming.

The red carpet was rolled out and the lady said: I present to you:

"MR & MRS VINCENT KELLER"

*******applause*********

"At Last" by Etta James started to play and Vincent led Catherine out on the dance floor. They danced as they gazed into each other's eyes. Their love was felt by everyone in the room.

Later dinner was served. The guest enjoyed crab & avocado salad served on avocado halves, pan seared scallops or salmon with seafood dressing and grilled corn salad topped with cotija cheese.

A dessert station had an assortment of desserts for everyone. The guest enjoyed the open bar that was available.

Catherine surprised Vincent with a "legacy table" in honor of his brothers. Rose petals surrounded pictures of his brothers along with candles. On the front of the table was a fireman hat with an inscription that read:

" You braved fires with hearts bigger than the blazes that burned. Your heroism will live on forever through your legacies."

Vincent was overcome with emotions. A waterfall of tears flowed down his face as he looked into Catherine's eyes and said thank you. He had never cried for his brothers, but at that moment he cried tears of closure as he released the hurt, pain, anger and resentment, he had carried for years. He finally felt at peace with their deaths. He hugged Catherine, because he knew she was definitely his angel.

They said their goodbyes and exited the building. A white Rolls-Royce Phantom was waiting to drive them to their happily ever after.

THANKS FOR READING MY STORY. I HAVE ENJOYED WRITING IT. STAY TUNED FOR THE "KELLERS IN DALLAS."