The characters still belong to JE, but I'm still playing with them. Warning for language, wedding night smut at the end (duh!). If you don't like smut, you can stop reading when it starts. You won't miss any of the plot.
Chapter 14: Bliss
Stephanie's POV
I can't believe that February 1st is finally here! Today Carlos and I are getting our someday; we are finally becoming a unit, husband and wife. And to think, a year ago I thought he was dead, and I would never see him again. I'm so excited and relieved that he is alive and well because I would never have been this happy with Lester. Don't get me wrong, I did and do love Lester, but not the way that I love Carlos. Carlos is the air I breathe, the food I need, and my shelter from everything bad that life throws my way. Since the day I met him, in that diner, I have known that Carlos was some special. I just didn't know how special he was until I thought I lost him to Scrog.
I missed sleeping in Carlos's arms last night, and though I had a great time with his sisters, Julie, Mary Lou, Connie, Dani, his mother, and abuela, it still wasn't the same. I spoke to Albert, and he said that he would come with Angie and Mary Alice so they could see us get married, but he couldn't stay the whole time because he needed to take them behind Valerie's back. She thinks that they are going to see Albert's mother, who has been as much of a grandmother to the girls as their biological grandmother. I'm glad that my new daughters will be able to spend a small part of today with Carlos and me.
My wedding dress is perfect, and I decided to wear my hair in a french twist, at least until Celia, Carlos's sister told me that I wasn't allowed to wear my hair up. Carlos had asked his sisters to make sure that I wear my hair down, with my curls showcased. He told them that my crazy curls were his favorite part of my body, followed by my blue eyes and my temporary baby bump. My new mother-in-law, Marisa, gave me the diamond earrings she wore at her wedding as my something borrowed; my something old was the simple diamond necklace that abuela got from her grandmother in Cuba; for my something new I had a diamond and sapphire tennis bracelet that Carlos gave to me yesterday; and my something blue was the blue garter belt I was wearing.
"Stephanie, how do you like your hair?" Mariela, Carlos's youngest sister, asked me. She was the one who styled it for me. My hair was down with perfect curls but strategically pinned up in sections to showcase my earrings.
"It looks wonderful. I'm jealous; I can never get my hair to cooperate like this on my own."
"I took beauty culture in high school, but decided I didn't like to stand on my feet all day long," Mariela responded.
"She does have a special touch when it comes to hair and make-up." Lydia, Ranger's second youngest sister, responded.
"But she has no idea on how to decorate. If left to her resources, she would have only a bed, a table and chair in her apartment." Jessenia added. She is Carlos's second oldest sister.
"My apartment wasn't decorated, either. I just had a collection of furniture rejects from relatives and friends, and considering how many times someone set my apartment on fire, it was good that I never spent a lot of money on decorating. I even lost a good couch to 'death cooties.'" I added while laughing.
Sara replied, "I heard about some of your mishaps. You made Julio question Carlos's sanity a few times." Sara is married to Carlos's brother. As the two sisters-in-law, we have to stick together to keep the Manosos on their feet.
"I'm grateful that all of you are here to support me. I have never had this much support from my family, so I am overwhelmed by how you all have accepted me into your family so easily. You all treated me with love and respect since the day I met you. Even when we thought Carlos was gone, you still treated me as one of the family. I am forever grateful to you all."
"Stephanie, you gave your heart to my son, and he gave his heart to you. That makes you a part of the family, even though you didn't have the legal document. We value individuals who are kind-hearted, loving, caring, and loyal, which you have always been to Carlos. Since you helped Carlos and Julie, you were an honorary member of our family. You saved our granddaughter, which we are forever grateful to you." Marisa stated.
Suddenly there is a knock on the door. Marisa goes to answer the door. "Tia Marisa, is Steph ready? The ceremony is about to start." Lester states.
"Yes, Lester, Stephanie is ready. You may come in now."
Originally, Julie was going to be a bridesmaid, but when we decided to get custody of Angie and Mary Alice, we took Julie out of the wedding party because I didn't want to hurt my new daughters. Instead, we decided to add the lighting of a Unity candle to our ceremony. Lester was supposed to be Carlos's best man, but I decided to have Lester walk me down the aisle then give me away, in place of my father. I felt that it was very appropriate since Lester gave me to Carlos after he returned from the dead. When I first brought up my idea to Carlos, he balked at it, but then decided that it was a good way to honor how important Lester was to me during his "death." Lester felt honored that I asked him to be a part of our special day and to hold such an important role. Tank was Carlos's best man, while Mary Lou was once again standing for me as Matron of Honor. We decided to have no one else in our bridal party because we wanted it to be simple. Tank and Mary Lou will sign our wedding certificate as our witnesses. Carlos's family and my friends left my room, except Mary Lou and Lester. Mary Lou gave my dress one last smoothing and tuck in a stray curl before leaving Lester and me alone.
"Beautiful, I just want to tell you now that I am happy for you. I'm glad to see that smile on your face that was missing when my cousin was gone. As much as I loved you, you never wore a smile like that for me. Carlos is your true soulmate and I hope that you both have a long life together and that your family will be just like the Manoso and Santos family, filled with love, respect, and happiness. You look gorgeous and Carlos is a lucky man to have you for his wife."
"Thank you Lester, and I hope that you experience what Carlos and I have someday. I am also hoping that Dani will be that woman for you."
"She is, Beautiful. I can't imagine my life, Dani. That is one of the few good things that came out of this whole mess with Dalton and Lula."
"You're right. Lester, learn from Carlos and me, don't wait too long before claiming the woman who completes you. Life is too short to have any regrets."
"You're right, Beautiful."
"I love you, Honey, and I'm glad that you are walking me down the aisle to Carlos today."
"I wouldn't want it any other way." Lester kisses my cheek and walks towards the patio doors.
Ranger's POV
I can see that all the guests have arrived. I and my entourage arrived here about thirty minutes ago. We were relegated to Lily's cottage to get ready, not being allowed in the main house so I couldn't catch a glimpse of my Babe. Last night I hardly slept. I am so used to having my Babe in my arms at night that I am unable to sleep soundly without her. At least I know that I will have her in my arms at night forever, starting tonight. Lester is giving Steph away to me, which is perfect for us and Tank is my best man. My brother was not disappointed; he knows that Tank is as much of a brother to me as Julio is my biological brother. I saw many of the guests arrive, who were most my Rangemen, some with dates, but most solo. I saw Stephanie's only attendees, Mary Lou and her husband Lenny, Joe and Lauren, and Connie arrive. Albert got to the house with Angie and Mary Alice about ten minutes before the ceremony. I'm glad our new daughters can be here with us, it will help to symbolize our new family.
Lester leaves the cottage to get Stephanie since he is walking her down the aisle. I am glad that he is supportive of our marriage and that he found Dani because they are perfect for each other just like my Babe and I are. We have a large white heated tent set up in the backyard which is where we are getting married. I can't wait to see my Babe. I walk to where the Justice of the Peace is standing to wait for my Babe's entrance. I see all the woman come out of the house and into the tent, taking their seats. Finally, the music starts and Mary Lou walks down the aisle ahead of Stephanie. Pacabel's Canon in D is playing. Once Mary Lou makes it to the front, the wedding march starts, and my Babe enters the tent. I catch my glimpse of her, and I am taken back by her beauty. Her blue dress accentuates her eyes, and Mariela did a great job of getting her curls to sit perfectly. I feel my pants getting a little snug and have to get myself under control. Getting married with a boner is not appropriate. I can't take my eyes off of her; she is radiant today.
Lester and Stephanie arrive, and Lester gives Stephanie's hand to me. The Justice of the Peace begins, "Family, friends, and honored guests, today we are gathered here to witness the union of Ricardo Carlos Manoso and Stephanie Michelle Plum. The love that these two individuals have for each other has survived more than anyone could have imagined, including the death of the groom. They have requested a simple service that will unite them as one. So, without further ado, is there anyone here who feels that these two should not be getting married here today." The JP waited a few moments. When no one responded, he continued. "Marriage is a promise that is supposed to last a lifetime, where two individuals vow to remain as one, regardless of what life has to offer. Stephanie and Carlos have chosen to write their vows for today's ceremony. Carlos."
"Stephanie, Babe, I have loved you since the moment that I first laid eyes on you. You have a lightness around you that can lift the spirits of everyone you meet. I spent too many years pushing you away from me, and when I finally decided that it was time to make you mine, I was declared dead, and you had to grieve for me. I promise that, from this day forward, I will never do anything to hurt you, dishonor you, or disrespect you. I promise to love you with all of my heart and soul and to give you anything your heart desires. I promise to hold you in my arms every night until the day that I take my last breath. Tu eres mi amor, mi vida, y mi corazon. Te quiero siempre, querida."
"Stephanie, you turn."
"Ranger, Carlos, I also fell in love with you that first day. Even though you intimidated me as 'Street Ranger,' you agreed to help a clueless Burg girl become a bounty hunter. You became my Mr. Higgins. When I met 'Business Ranger,' I was shocked to see the savvy corporate executive. However, when you decided to introduce me to Carlos, by letting me in your life and heart little by little, I met the man who always supported me, who was always proud of me, you loved me for who I was, and not who he wanted me to become. Those three years that you were gone were the worst years of my life, and because of that experience, I promise to love and cherish you, support and protect you, and make sure to always provide you with the light you need to shine. Carlos, you are truly my better half, and I promise to love you and be with you until I am no longer on this earth. Te queiro siempre, Batman."
I am so surprised that my Babe isn't crying. I expected her to be crying by this point, especially with her pregnancy hormones, but she is composed and still glowing.
"Carlos, the ring." I turn to Tank who hands me Stephanie's wedding band.
"Carlos, repeat after me. "With this ring, I thee wed."
"With this ring, Babe, I thee wed." I slip the ring onto her left hand. She has her engagement ring on her right hand for the service.
"Stephanie, the ring." The JP states. Stephanie retrieves my ring from Tank as well. "Repeat after me, With this ring, I thee wed."
"With this ring, Carlos, I thee wed." Stephanie slips my ring on my finger.
"Stephanie and Carlos will be adding to their family tomorrow. As a sign of their love and support of all their children, I would like to invite Carlos's daughter, Julie, along with Stephanie's nieces, Angelica and Mary Alice, up here to light a Unity candle with the bride and groom. This Unity candle will be a symbol of the blending of five individuals into one cohesive family unit." The JP lights each of our candles. Stephanie's candle has two wicks, symbolizing the child she is carrying. We use our lit candles to light the larger candle simultaneously. We have symbolically joined as a family.
Once the girls return to their seats and Stephanie, and I return to our place in front of the JP, he continues, "By the power vested in me by the State of New Jersey, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." I gather Stephanie in my arms and give her one of my signature, mind-numbing kisses. Once we break away, the JP states, "I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo Carlos Manoso."
Our family and friends stand up and applaud us. Stephanie and I walk down the aisle followed by Mary Lou and Tank. Our guests surround us to congratulate us on finally getting married.
Joe's POV
I can't believe that I am stuck here watching my Cupcake marry Manoso. Witnessing this marriage is a fucking nightmare. I was ready to decline, but my mom, of all people, told me it would be inappropriate to decline Stephanie's invitation. So, I had to follow the "proper Burg protocol" and attend the wedding. It kills me to hear that they both fell in love with each other at first sight. That means that throughout my entire relationship with Stephanie, she was in love with Manoso. God, I was so fucking stupid. I can see Lauren smirking at me. Last night I told her about Lisa and my daughter Josephine. I told her that Lisa was mistaken, but no paternity test would work because John and I were too closely related (first cousins). She wasn't thrilled about it, but she forgave me because I was young and stupid. I told her I wasn't a hundred percent sure that Josephine was even my child.
My only fear now is that the bitch Dani will uncover something that conclusively proves that Josephine is my daughter. If that happens, I know I will be heading to divorce court, which is something that I would welcome at this point.
I keep looking at the bride. Cupcake looks beautiful. I just want to hold her in my arms and take her to my bedroom, while slowing undressing her. Even though she is pregnant, she is still the most beautiful woman I know. Pregnancy suits Stephanie, making her even prettier. Lauren looks worse being pregnant then she did before she was pregnant. She has gained over fifty pounds so far and she still has another month to go. If you saw Cupcake from the back or straight on in the front, you would never know she was pregnant. Lauren, on the other hand, looks like she should have given birth already. I can't believe how unattractive my wife is right now. At least she knows how to cook and clean. Her only saving grace is that she gives a good BJ, better than Stephanie, allows me to take her from behind and in her ass as well. Stephanie was too inhibited with me in the bedroom, which is her only fault, that and her marriage to Manoso.
Maybe I can get Lauren to leave in about an hour, to relieve my mother from watching our children for the rest of the night. It seems as if Lauren read my mind because she says, "We are not leaving until after dessert. Suck it up and let it sink into that thick head of yours that Stephanie will never be in your bed again and that you are no longer a part of her future."
Fuck my life; this night is the worst night of my life.
Lauren's POV
I know that my Joe is still in love with Stephanie. As much as I want to blame her or hate her, I can't. She has made no advances towards Joe and has given him no indication that she wants to be anything but a friend to him, but he is still in fantasy land. When we first started to go out as couples, Stephanie would wear sexy dresses, tight bodices, short skirts, and FMPs, and I knew that it was for the benefit of Ranger because he couldn't keep his eyes off of her, or his hands for that matter. But, I think either she or Ranger realized how Joe would keep looking her over and stare at her. Then, after we all thought Ranger was dead, she left for California. I was hoping that one of Ranger's men would go out there with her to help her settle in, but they brought her too much pain because they reminded her too much of her Carlos, which was why she was escaping. Joe volunteered to go with her, and she accepted his request, as a friend, helping her out. I know that she didn't sleep with Joe, and I know that she didn't allow his attempted advances to come to fruition. She is too honorable, and would never be the "other woman" in an affair. When Joe's trip went from being a week or two to a month, I started to get nervous. But, he returned, sexually frustrated, to me.
I knew that he was abstinent during that time because that first night that we were together, he was rough and quick. Anytime that he went more than a week without having sex he would be aggressive in bed. The first time after he returned was very much like our first time. With Stephanie gone, our marriage was stronger, and he was more attentive to me. They would speak once or twice a week, which I was fine with because he was making sure she was okay. I even spoke to her some nights. Then, in August, Joe suddenly decided he wanted to visit her because she sounded depressed. I had to put my foot down and tell him that it was not his place. He needed to leave well enough alone. When he told me it was because Ranger's birthday was approaching, I hit the ceiling. In my mind, it was clear that he wanted to try to get in her pants again at a time when she was most vulnerable. I made him call Rangeman and speak to that guy in charge, Tank. Tank agreed to have one of the core team, Ranger's best friends, go out to surprise her and make sure she was okay. They all loved her and wanted to make sure she was happy, and this was as good an excuse as any for one of them to lay eyes on their sister. Lester went, and the rest was history.
After the Plum family tragedy, Stephanie returned to Trenton for good but promptly started dating Lester Santos. We went out on group dates, and she dressed much more subdued, jeans, t-shirts, and sometimes dresses, but they were toned down from her Ranger days. Still, she looked sexy, because that woman knows how to dress her body, but not as in your face. Still, Lester couldn't keep his eyes or hands off of her either. And my Joe would still practically drool over her. Now, don't get me wrong, she is an attractive woman, but she is not drop dead gorgeous. Her hair is a mass of crazy, wild curls, her chest is average, but she has piercing blue eyes the color of sapphires. She's a little on the tall side at 5'7" and is thin, and now fit and toned, but she's still not that special. I know that her personality is her best attribute, she can make anyone feel welcomed and accepted. That is a huge part of her appeal, but men are always looking at her when she walks by, and I don't get it. Granted, I have found myself staring a little too long at Ranger or Lester, but those men are exceptional specimens. You'd have to be blind not to give them a second look. However, my Joe is extremely handsome and sexy, so I am satisfied.
I can tell by the way that Stephanie's eyes locked into Ranger's once they saw each other that they are truly soulmates. They were made for each other and are destined to be lovers. No one exists to them right now but each other. When her nieces and Ranger's daughter Julie get called up for the Unity candle, I can see the love that exists between the five of them. They will be a great family. I just hope, for Stephanie's sake, that Ranger ages gracefully when the three girls all start dating. I look at Joe, and I can see that he is jealous and envious of Ranger. I know that he wants to be standing there with Stephanie, and it hurts me. Many times over the past few days Joe expressed that we should try to get home early to relieve mother of the children as a courtesy because it is hard watching two toddlers, but I know he wants to leave because he doesn't like seeing Stephanie happy with Rangers. As his penance for his past indiscretions, his flirting, and affairs, and for having a daughter that he ignores, we will stay here for the entire wedding. On Monday, when he's at work, he'll get served with divorce papers as I finish moving with my children to Princeton. He can spend the rest of his life alone with his whores. Joseph Anthony Morelli and I are over, and I will take him for whatever money I can get along with his pension. To think that I once was completely head over heels in love with this man, sigh.
Angie's POV
I am super excited that Albert took us to Aunt Stephy's wedding. I know that she wanted MA and me to be flower girls, but Mom wouldn't let us come, so not to make us feel bad, Julie decided not to be a bridesmaid. Once Albert said that we would be here for the ceremony, Aunt Stephy and Uncle Carlos decided to add the lighting of the candle to the wedding, which will make us all a family. Tomorrow can't come quick enough. I think Aunt Stephy and Uncle Carlos are going to New York City after the party to spend the night, but I know that tomorrow at 3 pm we will be a family. I want to call Aunt Stephy 'Mom' and Uncle Carlos 'Dad,' but I'm not sure how they will react. I'll just ask them. And then on Monday, MA and I start our new school with Julie. She said that she will escort us to our classroom and will wait for us outside for the bus in the afternoon. She is going to be a great big sister. But, most of all, I'm excited for the baby to be born. I'm going to miss Lisa; she's cute. I'm sad that she has to stay with mom and Albert. I only hope that Albert will make sure that Mom doesn't hurt her the way she hurt MA and I. Maybe he'll bring her here so we can see her. Aunt Stephy is happy today. I'm glad because I am tired of seeing her sad. Uncle Carlos always made her happy. I'm glad she finally has her happy.
Stephanie's POV
I can't believe that I am married to Batman, finally. Our someday is here, and we are now husband and wife. Today's wedding is the moment that I dreamed about a million times and never thought would happen. Not to mention that when I thought Carlos was dead, the dream was dead, though this day still occurred in my sleep nightly. I am even more in love with my husband today then I was yesterday. Tomorrow, we will be a family of five, and in a few more months, a family of six. We decided not to find out the sex of the baby ahead of time. We will find out when this baby decides to come. I am hoping for a son. There is very little that I can give Carlos because he has everything already, but I can give him a son. Now, I know that I have no control of the sex of a baby, which it's his sperm that determines the sex, but this child is growing inside me, so I hope that it is a boy. I want to name this baby after Carlos if he is a boy, which will make him Ricardo Carlos Manoso, III. I know, very cliche, but it's what I want. I thought to name him after Carlos and Lester, but I can't do that, and my dad, well, as close as we were in the last few years, we weren't close enough to honor him that way. He never really stood up for me against my mom, so I just have a hard time naming a son of mine after him. If this baby is a girl, I'm clueless about the names. I want something exotic and beautiful, maybe Isabella or Anastasia. I don't want a Burg name.
"Stephanie, congratulations," Albert says to me, giving me a kiss and hug. "You look beautiful and happy today."
"Thank you Albert, and thank you for bringing Angie and Mary Alice. It means a lot to Carlos and me to have them here for the ceremony."
"I know. Valerie is wrong, and I'm sorry that it took your custody battle for me to see how bad Valerie was treating the girls. I won't let her treat Lisa that way. I am taking her to a mental health facility in New York on Monday. She needs help; she doesn't see her way of thinking as being wrong. Everything changed the day your mother and grandmother died. I think Val relied on your mother for her feeling of self-worth, and when she died, she lost that encouragement. As you started to flourish and become a successful businesswoman, Valerie started to collapse. You got encouragement and approval from your partners and clients, and Val sought approval by being better than every other Burg housewife. She didn't feel adequate. I hope that the woman that I met is still somewhere inside her but if she is gone, then Lisa, and I will not be there. I can't let Lisa suffer. I hope you will allow Lisa and I to visit with the girls. I know that I have no legal rights to Angie and MA, but I do view them as my daughters, and I know that Lisa will miss her big sisters."
"Albert, you are always welcomed in our home with Lisa. I appreciate everything you have done for them and your support. If you need anything, please, let me know, and I will help you. Even though Val and I will never be close again, I do want to know my niece. She is an innocent in all of this, and I will not punish Lisa for her mother's instability. Again, Albert, please let me know if you need anything."
"Thank you. The day that I met you because of that Soder girl I knew you were a special woman. I had a crush on you, but after meeting Joe and Ranger, I knew I didn't stand a snowball's chance in Hell at being with you. But your sister was so sweet and lost; I couldn't help falling in love with her."
"I understand. You're a good man, Albert, and deserve the best."
"Well, let me round up Mary Alice and Angie to get back to the Burg before Valerie gets too suspicious."
"Bye Albert." I give him a hug and a kiss.
"What was that about?" Carlos asks in my ear as his hands come around my waist from behind before resting on our child.
"Albert was telling me that he's having Val committed on Monday and that if she doesn't change, he's taking Lisa and leaving her. He would still like to visit with Angie and Mary Alice, and to allow them to see their sister still."
"He's turning out to be a good man. I didn't think he had it in him. You know, I think he would be a much better real estate lawyer, doing closings and writing contracts. Maybe I'll offer a job doing that for Rangeman. That way, the other lawyers on staff can help train him, and he'll have a steady income."
"I think that's a great idea, but let's see what happens with Val first. I want to make sure that he keeps his promise to take Lisa away from her if she doesn't see what harm she's inflicting on her daughters."
"Now, Mrs. Manoso, I want to dance with you, and I want to whisper sweet nothings in your ear, and I want to make love to you all night long. Now that you're finally mine, I want to enjoy every part of you."
I turn around to look him in his eyes with my arms around his neck, "That sounds like a wonderful idea, Mr. Manoso."
Lester's POV
Listening to my cousin and Beautiful exchange vows, I realize that this is the way it should be for them. Stephanie never loved me as I loved her. How could she when Carlos completes her? I thought that I would feel jealousy or sadness at officially losing her, but instead, I feel free. I can now finally move on with my life. Dani and I have been dating exclusively, and we have made love a few times, but I didn't feel that connection to her that I thought I should feel. Now, I realize it was because I was still waiting for Beautiful. However, she is off the market, and I am free. I don't have to fear her changing her mind and leaving Carlos for me. I don't know why that thought was in my head, but it was. I glance at Dani sitting next to me, and I take her hand in mine. I bring it up to my lips and kiss her on the back of her hand. She looks at me, and I see love in her eyes, and I feel the love in my heart. I am one hundred percent ready to commit to this wonderful woman sitting next to me. She is the one who will give me my someday, and I can thank Beautiful for taming me and letting me see that my playboy days were over. Yes, I enjoyed being with different beautiful women, but I enjoy being with a woman who loves me more. I never thought that a monogamous relationship could be so great. Stephanie first showed me that making love to someone multiple times leads to learning their body and what drives them crazy. Within a week, Stephanie was able to make me aroused with the simplest touch, look, or sway of her hips. I could go from uninterested to horny in five seconds. Dani has that same power. That makes sex much more enjoyable for both parties.
I think it's time to let Dani know just how much she means to me. I'll talk to the core team and ask them if I can take off during Spring Break so I can take Dani away somewhere special, maybe Hawaii. If we can spend a week together alone away from Trenton, then I'll know that she's the woman for me. Suddenly, Dani's pulling me to my feet, "Lester, the ceremony is over."
"I'm sorry, Baby, I was lost in my head. Let's go congratulate the happy couple, and then I want to dance with you all night long."
"That sounds wonderful, Les."
We walk over to Beautiful and Carlos. Tank finishes his conversation and walks away. I hug Beautiful and kiss. "Congratulations, Beautiful. You deserve your happily ever after with my cousin."
"Les, Honey, you deserve yours too, don't let Dani get away." She says with a wink. I turn to my cousin, and we do the manly bro hug. "Congrats Carlos. You better not fuck up or I will kick your ass."
"I know, Les, you along with Tank, Bobby, Hector, Cal, Hal, Vince, and most of our men. I think the only man who won't kick my ass is Morelli. He'll be there to swoop in a take Stephanie."
"He does look angry and miserable. I think there is trouble in Burg paradise. His wife is jealous of Stephanie because her husband isn't over her yet."
"What do you mean?"
"When we used to go out as a group, Morelli would constantly be checking Beautiful out. His eyes would wander to her chest and her legs, and I could see him mentally undressing her. She used to wear looser fitting clothes and higher necklines but did it unconsciously. The first time we went out, she wore one of her typical dresses, and his eyes were on her the whole time. I don't think she was ever really comfortable around Morelli on her own. I think he tried to get in her pants when he was with her in California because she would refuse his offers to visit her. She never refused our offers after that initial visit."
"Interesting. I thought that Morelli still had a thing for Stephanie, though Steph denies it. We need to keep an eye on the cop. If his wife leaves him, which I think she might, he may try more aggressively to get back with Stephanie."
"Do you want us to put a tracker on his car?"
"Yes. Ask Hector to do it. He's the most discreet and knows the best places to hide it so Morelli will never find it."
"Consider it done. But in all seriousness, I'm glad that you and Stephanie are finally married. You both deserve to be happy and to have your forever."
"You too, don't let Dani get away. She's a keeper."
The music is starting, and it's time for the happy couple to have their first dance. The happy couple walks hand in hand onto the dance floor to dance to "You're Still the One" by Shania Twain. The lyrics fit them perfectly, and it is the perfect beginning to the rest of their lives as Mr. and Mrs. Manoso.
Ranger's POV
We danced, we talked with our guests, and we ate cake. Now, I just want to leave with my Babe and spend our first night as a married couple making love to her. I can never have enough of her body. We can spend hours making love and minutes after I finish, I want her again. If we didn't have the girls and if she wasn't pregnant, I think I could spend whole days locked in our home making love nonstop. I mean, we practically did that in Hawaii. I can't imagine my life without her by my side.
I'm scared to start our new life together as the parents of three girls. I'm barely coping with Julie, and she's my biological child. I know, though, that with my Babe, I can accomplish anything. We finally say goodbye to our last guest, and Lily comes over to us. "Ranger, Stephanie, I have your bags packed and in the Turbo. I'll have dinner prepared and waiting for you tomorrow when you return, enough for the both of you and the three girls. Angie and Mary Alice's rooms are ready for them. I have enough cold cuts and bread for their lunch on Monday, and if you like, I can pack their lunch Monday morning. Enjoy your night, and I'll see you tomorrow when you arrive home. Between Ella and I, everything will be cleaned up and organized when you return."
"Lily, you are already too good to us. I appreciate you helping Ella with our wedding and helping to get Angie and Mary Alice settled. You are a Godsend." Stephanie tells her.
"It's my pleasure. It felt so good to be needed and wanted again. While I had the restaurant, I had a purpose to my day, and it started early and ended late. Now, that I'm working with you, I have a purpose again, that reason for living. I get to take care of you and cook, which is what I love to do. I have a beautiful home, and a beautiful family to share it with now. I'm grateful for how my nephew has been taken care of by your company, Ranger, and this is my opportunity to thank you over and over again."
"Lily, it's my honor to provide a place for men like Cal to work and to be respected, as well as understood. We all understand and relate to one another, which makes our lives much more fulfilled."
"Well, I won't keep you here any longer. Go enjoy your night." With that, Lily hugs us both and shoos us out the door."
Ten minutes into the trip, Babe falls asleep. When we arrive at the Four Seasons in NYC, I gently wake her before the valet opens the door. The bellhop takes our bags and we follow him to the registration desk.
"Good evening, Sir, Madam. Welcome to the Four Seasons Hotel. My name is Karl. How may I assist you?" The fifty-something concierge asks.
"Good evening. I have reservations booked under Ricardo Manoso."
"Yes, you have booked our Ty Waner suite for the night, with your lovely wife."
"Yes. Very well. I just need a credit card, and I will have Juan take your bags to your suite for you."
I hand him my black AmEx card, and he swipes it into his computer. He gives me the papers to sign and hands two key cards to me. "If you have any requests, just call the front desk and we will accommodate you. Have a pleasant evening, Mr. and Mrs. Manoso."
Stephanie and I follow Juan to the elevators where he takes us up to the 52nd floor, to our suite. "Sir, would you like me to take the bags into the room or leave them in the foyer." The bellhop asks in broken English.
"Puedes dejarlos en el vestibulo. Gracias por su asistencia." I respond while slipping him a hundred dollar bill. (You can leave them in the foyer. Thank you for your assistance.)
"Gracia, senor. Trajajare manana cuando salga." Juan responds. (Thank you, sir. I'll be working tomorrow when you check out.)
With a nod, Juan leaves us and returns to the elevator. I pick up Stephanie and carry her into the opulent suite. She is gawking at the living room, with the mother of pearl sheen and the amazing views of the City. I head to the bathroom to fill the large tub with water and bath soap. She finally comes to join me. "Carlos, what are you doing?"
"Mrs. Manoso, we are going to take a bath first. You've been on your feet most of the day and I want you to relax a bit before we move on to other activities. We only have about twelve hours to ourselves here, and I don't want to waste any time."
I watch her remove her shoes and start to take the pins out of her hair. "Stop, Babe." I get up and walk to her. I stand in front of her and remove the hairpins myself. "Babe, I love you curls, and I've been waiting to release them all night long. I can't wait to run my fingers through your hair." I lean in to smell the sweet strawberry scent of her hair. Once her hair is free, I slowly remove her dress. I kiss my beautiful wife on the lips and unclasp her bra. As her pregnancy progresses, her breast keeps getting larger, and I love the way they feel under my hands. I lift her and place her on the counter so I can suck on her breasts for a few minutes. I hear her moan and I love the sounds she makes. I take off my shirt, shoes, socks, and pants, and then I place her back on the tile floor before removing her panties. I gently place her in the tub after securing her hair on top of her head in a bun. I want her hair to stay dry, so I can run my hands through it while we make love. I climb in the tub with her and sit behind her, so Stephanie's back is against my chest. I wrap my arms and legs possessively around her and tell her to sleep. Within minutes, she's asleep. When the water starts to get cool, I let some out and refill it with hot water. I gently wake her with kisses to her neck and playful caressing of her breasts with one hand while I rub her clit with my other hand. She awakens with moans. "Oh, Carlos, that feels so good."
"Do you want me to continue, or do you want to wait until we get out?"
"Please don't stop now. I need to have my first Cuban Sex God, the Ranger-induced organism of my married life." That's all the encouragement I need. I continue to kiss her neck and lips while rubbing her with my hands. I place two fingers inside her while rubbing my thumb on her clit. I feel her body tensing as her orgasm nears. Within minutes, she's trembling as her first orgasm courses through her body. I let the water out and get out of the tub. I tell her to stay as I turn on the shower and adjust the water temperature. Once it is perfect, I lift her out of the tub and place her underneath the shower heads and join her. I take my time washing her using the washcloth and the Bulgari shower gel that either Lily or Ella packed. When I reach our baby, I kneel and place a few kisses. "Mi querido bebe, recuerda que tus padres te quieren aunque no hayas nacido aun." (My dearest baby, remember that your parents love you even though you're not born yet.) Once I finished washing my Babe, she takes the washcloth from me and washes me. As much as I want to take her in the shower, I hold myself back. Babe, however, has other ideas. Suddenly, she's kneeling in the shower with her mouth around my cock. "Babe, you don't have too."
"I know, Carlos, I want to do this." She teasingly licks the tip of my cock, where there is some precum already dripping. She takes her tongue and licks up and down my shaft while holding my balls in her hand. I move so my back is against the shower wall. She takes my entire hard cock into her mouth, where she slowly glides it in and out while following with her hand. I am surprised that she can take me so deeply in her mouth. Even though she has done this to me before, I still am surprised at how great she is at giving blowjobs. I feel my release building, and so does Stephanie. She starts to take me deeper and faster, and I can't help but explode in her mouth. "Babe, please stop." She continues to suck me, even though I released everything. My cock is sensitive right now and it is a pleasurable hurt. Finally, she decides to stop and kisses me. I shut off the water and open the shower the doors. I encase her in a huge, soft towel and slowly dry her body. Once she is dry, I take a towel and dry myself off. I take her hand and lead her to the king-sized bed.
I lay her down on the bed and place my body over hers. I hold my weight up on my arms and legs, not wanting to crush her or hurt the baby. I kiss her, for what seems like hours, which our tongues are fighting for control. I move my mouth down to the sensitive point where her neck and shoulder meet, marking her as mine. I start to suck and nibble on her right nipple while I give the same attention to her left one with my hand. When her nipple is nice and red and sensitive, I switch. I feel her body writhing underneath mine and I know she wants more. I once again kiss the bump where our child is growing, before heading to the promise land. I gently move my tongue around her hard nub, careful not to touch it. She's moaning and thrashing beneath me. I know that I am teasing her and driving her crazy. "Carlos, stop teasing me already."
"Querida, be patient. I promise it will be good."
I finally concede and put my mouth to her promise land. Dios, I love the way she tastes. I know right where to lick her to drive her crazy. I build her up, and right before she's ready to explode, I move back to her hips or thighs. I place my tongue inside her pussy, start to fuck her with my tongue. "God, Carlos, I need to come. Please."
"Why, you don't like this, Babe?"
"I love it, but you are a tease. I need you to fuck me. I need you to be inside me already."
"In time, Babe."
I go back to sucking and licking her nub. I have some mercy on her and place three fingers inside her wet center. I move them in and out slowing and follow the pace with my tongue. Her body is building to an orgasm and this time, I let her release. However, once she does, I still don't stop. Her juices are flowing out and I do the best I can to drink as much of her sweetness as possible. I feel her body readying again and know that she is ready for me. I bring her hips to the edge of the bed, so I can stand while entering her. I place a pillow underneath her lower back to put her at the correct angle. I place her legs on my shoulders and enter slowly and deeply. She is so wet that my cock just glides in, and I feel her tighten around me. "Dios, Babe, you feel good."
"Oh, Carlos, please go faster and harder."
"As you wish, querida." I pump inside her hard, fast and deep. Her moans are getting louder and longer. I finally place my hand on her clit and I feel her explode. I slow the pace because I'm not ready yet. I want her to have at least one more orgasm before we go to sleep for a little while. I can see she's exhausted, but she's also not yet completely satisfied. It's been a few weeks since we've made love, since our date night. She still feels funny making love with Julie in the house. Hopefully, she'll get over that soon because I can't keep on going without having her. I continue to slowly enter and almost completely pull out and once again pick up the rhythm. I lean down and kiss her before sucking on her breasts again. I'm ready to explode and I know that Steph is close as well. Once again, I rub and pinch her hard nub, while she and I explode together. Once we calm down a little and catch our breath, I gently place her back on the bed under the covers where I join her. She places her head on my chest and snuggles next to me. "I love you, Carlos."
"Te queiro, querida." With that, we both fall asleep.
XXXXXXXXXX
Author's note: I obviously have more than three chapters left in me. But the wrap up is starting. I think that someday I'll write a sequel, but I have to finish Changing Seasons first. Once again, thank you to my Beta for her quick editing turn around. Also, thank you for your comments, especially the lengthy and descriptive ones. I receive so much joy in knowing how much you are all enjoying my story. Please keep the comments coming! Until the next update...