SIZZLE WARNING: If you can't take the heat, you better get out of the kitchen by 11:30 p.m.
**Insert cheeky grin here** It IS time for their honeymoon afterall!
7:34 p.m.
Jack and Elizabeth returned back down the aisle from which they'd entered, this time resolutely clinging to one another. Frank announced for everyone to head to the big white tent and "to enjoy his wife's cookin'" while the wedding party was being photographed for a short while. He took Abigail's arm and led her out. The rest of the party followed.
The photographer and his team worked quickly, as the sun was quickly dropping below the horizon. The desired group photographs were taken, leaving only the shots of the happy couple together.
The bridesmaids and groomsmen retreated to the big white tent to eat, starved from their busy day. From a distance, William, Grace and Charlotte watched the couple as they shared the quiet moments together with the photographers.
William spoke quietly after contemplating for a while, wiping tears from his eyes. "You have to pass on a desire for them to find a faith of their own. A second-hand faith is no good to anyone. It has to be one they choose. That's the secret to this whole parenting thing. I am so thankful to God that each one of our children has made their own decision to let God be in charge of their life and that He has led them to each other."
Grace looked over to Charlotte and took her calloused, scarred hand into her own delicate, freshly-manicured one. "Thank you for raising such an honorable man. I have prayed every single day of Elizabeth's life that a man like Jack would come, not to provide for her or to rescue her, but to love her. I am happy beyond my wildest dreams that they found each other."
Charlotte wiped her eyes-something that she was only becoming more accustomed to doing in the last few days. "We come from two different worlds. Two very different worlds. But there has not been a single moment where I have not felt God's love shining through your family. You have welcomed us into your lives without hesitation. You have welcomed my son into your home and your life time and time again." She turned to William with quivering lips. "You remind me so much of my Tom, Jack's Father. Oh, how I wish he was here to see this. He'd be so happy." She wiped her tears away and took a deep breath. "But I am so glad that Jack has another father in his life now that will love him just as much as Tom loved him and that he has another mother in his life that will love him like she loves her own daughter. Thank you both. Thank you both for loving him."
Jack and Elizabeth walked back over to their parents, finding them all crying. "Are you guys okay?" Elizabeth asked in surprise.
"We're all just very, very happy. Let's get you to this fancy reception, Lizzie!" Charlotte squeezed her new daughter-in-law.
8:02 p.m.
The sky was painted with oranges and reds; the sun had begun its slumber. Torches lit the path and lanterns illuminated the lively reception in the grand white tent. The sound of crickets and humming generators surrounded them. Music danced in the air.
Frank introduced the couple as they entered the tent. "Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Elizabeth Thornton."
Elizabeth squeezed Jack's arm tightly. I love the way that sounds!
They spent a large portion of the next hour sweeping around the tables, greeting their guests. Jack heard Elizabeth's stomach growl more than once. He looked desperately at Abigail. The food smells delicious at least. I'm assuming by the way everyone is devouring it that it tastes great too.
Toasts were made in honor of the new bride and groom; Abigail spoke sweetly of the couple's history as it unfolded in her restaurant. Lee, Tom and Julie each had funny stories to tell about the couple and their long, winding journey. Everyone laughed until their sides hurt.
8:44 p.m.
"Sergeant Thornton, would you like to gather your wife and light up this dance floor?" Tom beckoned his brother.
Jack's eyes rose to his brother's, who was aware of another surprise Jack had for Elizabeth. He watched as his brother led Elizabeth by the hand to the middle of the tent, under a sparkling chandelier and a canopy of twinkling lights. Tom placed Jack's phone in the speaker harness as Jack pulled Elizabeth close.
Paul started a video that he and Faith had compiled and projected it onto a large white screen. The familiar music started and Elizabeth smiled at Jack. The Train "Marry Me" melody began.
Forever can never be long enough for me, to feel like I've had long enough with you.
Her smile faded into bewilderment at first and then it returned even brighter than before. He is amazing.
Forget the world now we won't let them see… But there's one thing left to do…
Now that the weight has lifted… Love has surely shifted my way.
She recognized his voice. Jack had recorded their song for her.
Marry me
Today and every day
Jack twirled his new wedding band on his finger.
Marry me
If I ever get the nerve to say 'Hello' in this café
Say you will, mm hmm
Say you will, mm hmm
He wrapped his arms around her tightly. His body like a mold for hers as they swayed.
Together can never be close enough for me
To feel like I am close enough to you
You wear white and I'll wear out the words I love you
"I love you, Jarrick River." Elizabeth whispered as she pressed her lips into his neck.
And you're beautiful
His lips whispered a warm breath into her ear. "You're beautiful."
Now that my wait is over
And love has finally shown you my way.
They quietly sang the song to each other now, their minds running with memories of their past. The guests felt somewhat like intruders watching their love unfold. It was truly magical.
Short video clips flickered on the screen, many Elizabeth and Jack had never even seen. Images from the early years they shared together, video shot at Lee and Rosemary's wedding, images secretly taken during Jack's proposal. The video continued during the song, but the crowd was mesmerized by the couple.
Just as the song was ending, Opal wandered out onto the dance floor, and in her innocence asked "Officer Jack" to dance with her too. Jack and Elizabeth smiled down at the little girl and Jack picked her up. She rested on his hip with her arms around her beloved teacher and the handsome Sergeant that she adored. Smiles lit everyone's faces as the Train song ended.
9:02 p.m.
A dance was shared between Jack and his Mom and Elizabeth and her Dad as well, and then the floor was opened up to everyone. Uncle Wynn was the next to claim Elizabeth's hand. He had been like a second father to Elizabeth, especially when she was a child. I've probably danced on his feet almost as often as my Dad's. She laid her head on his shoulder and blinked back the tears. Wynn had become the force guiding their family when Elizabeth had lost her Grandfather a couple years back. No one had forgotten.
The crowd was having a fantastic time enjoying Tom's playlist. Soon it was time to cut the cake and Jack and Elizabeth couldn't have been happier. At least I'll get something to eat now! Elizabeth walked quickly over to the beautiful cake, covered with edible wildflowers.
They stood staring at the stunning confection, having no idea how to cut it open without making a mess of it. "Abigail! Help!" Elizabeth called out.
Abigail joined them, giggling at the two. "Here." She easily maneuvered and cut two slices for them and returned to her seat. "We make a great team, you know!"
Elizabeth held up her plate and picked up the cake, preparing to feed Jack. She grinned slyly at him. "Are you ready Jarrick River?"
Jack's face grew serious at the sound of his given name slipping through her lips. Her soft lips. He stumbled to gather his wits. "You wouldn't."
Elizabeth smiled mischievously and placed the cake in Jack's mouth, barely even getting a crumb on his lips. "Mmmm! It's really delicious!" He laughed as he finished his bite and picked up his own plate. "Are you ready, Elizabeth Brook?"
Elizabeth pointed her finger at him and gave him her best scary teacher face. "I was kind to you Jack! You better not!" She leaned in and whispered quietly into his ear that she also knew where he'd be sleeping that night.
"Hmmm. Well then, this could make tonight even more interesting," he whispered just before he smashed the cake into her mouth, smearing it all over her face.
She squealed and laughter burst from the crowd at Jack's mischief. She quickly retaliated, grabbing a fistful of the back of the cake and dragging it across his cheek and chin. Soon they were engaged in a battle that finally ended in a truce with both of them covered in cake. The photographers had a field day with it, begging them to kiss with the frosting all over their faces. Jack eagerly sucked the frosting off of Elizabeth's lips without having to be asked twice.
10:29 p.m.
Elizabeth shared a dance with Lee and another with Paul and Jack claimed Rosie and Faith. Even Reverend Gariss had a chance to spend a little time with her, leaving his wife thrilled to be dancing with a "young handsome man for a while… No offense!" she had yelled over to Randy, who laughed. She mentioned how they had questioned why they had been invited to Elizabeth's surprise party, not having been privy to the wedding details. "We're so old that we wondered if we were just getting the sympathy invite!"
Jack and Elizabeth were sharing another dance, after cleaning themselves up as much as possible. "Are you about ready to head out of here, or would you like to stay a little longer?" He looked down at her lips.
"I've been ready for a while, but wanted you to arrive at the same conclusion on your own." She returned his lip-staring.
"I've been ready since I saw you in the study." He ran his fingers along the buttons on the back of her gown.
She tightened her grip on his neck and pressed her body into his, rubbing against him. "Let's tell them. I noticed Tom, Julie and Lee sneak out a while ago, so I'm sure they're up to something."
"Oh ya. Paul and Faith went out too. The only ones still in here are Abigail, Frank and Rosie. I think poor Rosie is exhausted." They scanned the audience to see her with her feet up and her shoes off, sipping some water. Abigail was mysteriously absent too.
The dance ended and their friends entered the tent just as Jack announced that he and Elizabeth were heading out. "Thank you all for coming and for not getting your feathers ruffled about the real surprise! We really wanted to keep this small and intimate. If you are here, it is because we really wanted to share this moment with you. We also really appreciate all the toy donations for the CPD Toy Drive in honor of Elizabeth's birthday. We will make sure they all get into the right little hands this Christmas."
Rosie jumped up, after hearing that Jack and Elizabeth were leaving. "Oh wait! We have to hand out the sparklers and give the photographers a chance to get ready! Hang on just a second." Despite her swollen, tired feet, she sprang into action dividing the sparklers amongst the tables.
10:45 p.m.
Jack held Elizabeth's hand as they approached the exit. He looked over at her and kissed her lightly, the sparklers beckoning them to Jack's well-decorated Jeep. He squeezed her hand three times. She radiated joy just looking up at him and returned four squeezes. "Let's go!"
They made a dash through the lanes of fiery gold sparks, holding each other tightly. The photographers requested that they stop in the middle of the aisle for a moment and kiss. "I guess one more won't hurt."
Jack pulled Elizabeth close and pressed his forehead against hers. His fingers found her jawline and grazed it before his mouth enveloped hers one last time in front of their dear friends and family. She could still taste the sweet frosting on his lips. He ended the enchanting kiss by dipping her dramatically as everyone clapped and cheered.
"Show off!" Lee cackled, as Jack's grin lit up his whole face.
They hugged their friends and their parents at the end of the rows and then turned to Jack's Jeep. It was covered in all sorts of paraphernalia—congratulatory notes written all over it with paints. We should have known that was what everyone was up to. "Our chariot awaits!"
Jack laughed and helped Elizabeth into her seat, carefully tucking her dress in before he shut the door. Abigail stepped closer before Jack got into his seat. "I packed you all some dinner in that basket back there. Thought you might be hungry." She pointed to the back seat and winked.
"My goodness. Abigail you are an angel sent directly from Heaven!" He kissed her cheek and she wished them well.
11:08 p.m.
Jack drove away, thankful that no one knew where they were going. The sound of the tin cans rattling around on the pavement elicited feelings inside him he didn't expect. Sneaking glances over at his beautiful best friend. Little pieces of cake stuck in her hair. This. This is the woman who will be by my side for the rest of my life. We will build a life together. Tears were threatening. His lip was trembling. Through the good and the bad, we will build this life. With our eyes on the Truth.
He pulled into a gas station to clean off the truck. And to compose himself a little bit. "We can't go to the hotel with the truck looking like this, so I'm going to clean it up a little." Jack squeezed her hand before he got out, avoiding eye contact.
Hmmm. I wonder where we're going if he's worried about how the truck looks. She watched him maneuver around the black Jeep, removing the tin cans and streamers, as well as some fuzzy handcuffs and a few other things Elizabeth wasn't able to identify. She smiled watching his dimples grow in his red cheeks. I can't believe this really happened. He is my husband now. My. Hot. Husband. This wonderful, kind, generous, brave man. With such integrity. And amazing dimples. He loves me. Me. The very idea made her want to cry and shout and dance all at once. Thank you Lord for making Jack.
She took a deep breath as he approached and got back in. He grinned and handed her the fuzzy handcuffs. "Thought we might want these later." His wink reduced her to a fit of giggles.
11:20 p.m.
Jack pulled into the hotel. He had booked an Gold Coast Suite for the two of them for the next two nights before they would leave early Sunday morning for their 8-day honeymoon.
Jack started to go open the door for Elizabeth, but a Valet Attendant was already there helping her out. Jack was slightly disappointed that their service was so good. It's okay. I'll get to kiss her plenty of times tonight. His lips were eager at the thought. He took her hand and led her to the check-in desk and presented his identification.
"Thank you for choosing the Waldorf Astoria for your wedding night." The Clerk smiled at the two, still in their wedding attire. She offered each of them a bottle of water. "Here, enjoy this while I get you all checked in. I see you will be staying with us for two nights, Sergeant Thornton?"
"Yes, that's right. Then we'll be flying to…" he stopped, realizing that he still had one final surprise for Elizabeth.
"Where, Jack? Where will we be flying to?" she prompted, making the Clerk laugh. "It would be nice to know what to pack tomorrow!"
Jack narrowed his eyes at her as he took the room cards from the lady. "You'll find out soon enough, Mrs. Thornton. Right now, let's get you and our overnight bags upstairs."
"Your bags have already been taken to your Suite, Sergeant. The room has been prepared for you and you will find a few upgrades waiting for you as a 'thank you' for staying with us on such a special occasion."
"Thank you very much Ma'am. I need to grab the picnic basket from the back seat before they drive off with my truck as well."
"They've already taken that up for you too, Sir. You're all set. Your room is on the top floor. I hope you enjoy your stay and the spectacular view of Chicago."
11:30 p.m.
Jack and Elizabeth got into the quiet elevator and pushed the button for the top floor. Looks like we have a little bit of a ride. Jack decided he wanted to make up for the lost opportunity when he didn't get to help Elizabeth out of the car. The mischievous spark in his eyes tipped her off. He nudged her into the back wall of the elevator.
"And just what are you up to, Jarrick River?"
"Just looking to get into a little trouble, I suppose."
She welcomed him into her space, still holding up the train of her dress. She leaned her head back against the wall as his lips swept over her neck like the night breeze. He tasted the sweetness of some of the frosting that she had missed below her ear. "Mmmm. An extra treat!" He licked it off, sending her body into frenzy.
The elevator climbed on in smooth silence. By the time the doors dinged, his body was aching for hers.
She took him by the hand and pulled him down the hallway, following the signs to their room. We're at the end of the hallway. Perfect. Private. She reached for the key card in his hand.
"Not so fast." He put the card in his pocket and swept her up into his arms in one swift motion. The firmness of his body making her breath quick.
"Now can I have the card?" She laughed as he realized his blunder.
He rolled his eyes. "Yes, but it's in my back pocket. Can you reach it?"
She slid her hand under his jacket and down his backside. "I'm having trouble getting my hand inside the pocket, honey. I might have to try several times." Her grin told him she knew exactly what she was doing. At last, after finding much enjoyment in groping Jack's backside, she retrieved the card and opened the door.
11:39 p.m.
It was a beautiful room, no doubt. And as hungry as they were for Abigail's food, they were hungrier for each other. Jack gingerly placed Elizabeth down, not allowing her to take a single step before pulling her back to himself. "I love you Elizabeth Thornton."
"I love you too Jarrick Thornton." She released the train of her dress, allowing the skirt to flutter to the floor. They stepped out of their shoes.
His hands were already exploring her body, feeling the softness of her dress. His lips grazed over her collar bone as she slipped his jacket off of his shoulders and let it drop onto the floor. His tongue flitted down the scalloped V neckline as it plunged down her chest where her breath was caught.
Her nimble fingers made quick work of the buttons on his shirt and it soon dropped to the floor as well, a couple steps closer to the bedroom. They had found themselves in this predicament many times before, but this time…
He unbuckled his belt as his lips found hers in a vigorous advance. She brushed his hands away and began unbuttoning his pants. His body straightened at her fierceness. He had been waiting for a long time for this moment. He did not want to disappoint.
He couldn't take his lips off of her, even long enough to get her undressed. His pants crumpled in a heap just outside the bedroom door. He pressed her against it, his bare skin against the soft lace of her dress.
His hands waved over the tiny, capped sleeves brushing them down her arms slightly. "May I?"
She opened the door to the suite bedroom and stepped inside, Jack so close she could feel his breath on her neck. He wrapped his strong arm around her waist and pulled her back into his chest. He brushed her hair to the side and began kissing the back of her neck and shoulder. His trembling fingers fiddling with the buttons down her back. Trying desperately to get them open.
At last his breath signaled defeat as he only managed to get half of them open while kissing her. He pulled back and laughed. "You had to pick the dress with a million little buttons didn't you?" His words and his breath quick. "But I like what I see so far." His fingertips touched the lace of the bustier under the gown and his body throbbed.
She giggled. "That's exactly what they told me when we bought it. But you've always been a hard worker, I suppose," she spoke over her own shoulder. "Well, except in English 111. Did you know I actually thought you might have a learning disability?!" She giggled at the thought.
He chuckled. "Oh, I'm working for it alright. And no, I most definitely just couldn't think straight with you around." He slipped his hands under her dress and around her waist, across the front of the bustier. Her breath quickened as she leaned her head back onto his shoulder, feeling his moist skin against her cool back. Her dress soon slipped to the floor and he took her hand to help her step out of it.
11:46 p.m.
Barely another second passed before he pulled her to the bed. They scarcely noticed the rose petals that had been strewn about and the wine chilling in the corner.
Their faces slowly moved closer, eyes steadfast. He leaned in, just a little. Each breathing slow, rhythmic breaths. They had waited so long for this moment. Coming so close. Back and forth.
His soft, heart-shaped lips brushed hers. He sucked on her bottom lip for a moment, pulling her into the kiss. She ran her fingers through his hair as his tongue slipped into her mouth. Following his passion. The kiss deepened as he navigated over the suggestive undergarments, hands grating over her thigh, and delicately up her arched back. She pushed into him at the touch of his red hot fingers on her cool skin. He laid her back on the mattress and slid up beside her. Fingers grazing up the front of the bustier to the sapphire necklace gracing her neck.
The flicker from the candles across her body mesmerized him. He nuzzled his face into her delicate skin, rubbing his cheek against hers. "You smell like sugar," he whispered as he drug his lips along her jawline. The clasp of the bustier between his fingers.
He could not resist her lips. Her velvety, swollen lips. He slowly released the hooks. She returned his affections, the passion growing exponentially. Letting the ache rush through their bodies like a dam giving way. His kisses were trailing down her neck, along the gleaming blue necklace. He removed it delicately and dropped it on the bed. Her hands glossing over his chest and down over his navel, flirting with the band of his Calvin Kleins. Their kissing continued as the rest of their garments were discarded.
There's no going back now. The sight of her body. His heart beating in his throat. Her gaze met his, smiling shyly. He couldn't hold back. He pulled her to himself, the kissing fiery now. She is mine. And I am hers.
He rolled her over and slid on top of her. She relaxed into the sheets, relinquishing all control to him. Their trust overpowering their nervousness. Quickly becoming natural. Their bodies knowing exactly what to do. His eyes searched hers for fear, but found none. She welcomed him, closing her eyes in delight as he pulled the sheets over them. Their bodies fitting together like a custom lock and key.
They relaxed back into the bed breathless. Neither left wanting any longer. Their wait was over.
He took her hand and squeezed it three times.
She returned four squeezes.
5:46 a.m.
Jack woke after a pleasant dream and squinted at the clock on the nightstand. Surprised at its response, he rolled closer to his peacefully sleeping beauty just as he had grown accustomed to over the last month. He was soon aware of her nearness in a new way… a way that he'd never experienced before. The warmth of her naked body as she snuggled back against him sent tingles all through him. He ran his fingers over the embroidery on the transparent panties he found discarded between the sheets. "The Mrs." I like the sound of that.
The strength of the arm that he wrapped around her... her bare skin against his bare skin… I can actually feel his heart beating. He smells like vanilla. She smiled to herself. She ran her hand over his skin lightly. Her own body reacting in a way that it never had before, remembering what happened just a few hours before. The throbbing was growing stronger as she lay against him and she was growing powerless to struggle against it. She rolled away from him to cool off.
Almost immediately his muscular arm slid under her body and pinned her securely back against chest. His other hand slid down her side, lightly grazing up and down from her thigh to under her arm. She tucked her hair to the side and relaxed her head back onto his strong shoulder, exposing her neck to his delight. He raised up slightly and nuzzled his face into her delicate skin, rubbing his cheek against her back. Her shoulders. Her neck. His hand now reaching down her leg and dragging back over her inner hip.
I love everything about this man. Her breaths were coming quickly now, trying to maintain some sense of control. He pulled his arm out from under her and laid propped up on his side. He rolled her onto her back and pulled back the sheet, exposing her partially. He leaned over and began a trail of kisses on her shoulder. He leaned further and further over her until his lips were even more intimate with her body. She laid her head back and moaned quietly, and he took that as an invitation to continue pleasuring her. He doesn't seem to need that game. When she could take no more, she clutched his bicep and pulled on his body, begging him to finish his sultry job and quench her ache.
And boy did he ever. I thought the first time was pretty amazing. But where in the world did he learn that?