A/N Thanks to my wonderful children who gave me the inspiration for the music in the last chapter and this one. Lyrics from Here We Go belong to Jon Brion. Lyrics from My Wish belong Rascal Flatts. Lyrics from Sunrise Sunset belong to Joseph Stein, playwright, Fiddler on the Roof.
I recommend a handkerchief for this chapter…preferably linen and lace, antique, maybe you carried it at your wedding? I'm going to use the red monogrammed one I used at my children's gothic wedding. FYI, I only cried when we were doing the mother-son dance which was My Wish by Rascal Flatts.
This is a long chapter…sorry again…but so much to cover.
XXXXX XXXXX XXXXX
Just Breathe, Chapter 25 – It's a nice day for a vanilla wedding!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
The pleasure of your company
is requested at the nuptials of
Anastasia Rose Steele
and
Christian Trevelyan Grey
Saturday, the first of October
two thousand and eleven
at half past two in the afternoon
Grey Estate, 212 Washington Lake Boulevard N.E.
Bellevue, Washington
9:00 A.M.
Ana's POV
"Are you awake?" Gail tapped on the door.
"Just woke up," I lie when I call out to her. I don't want her to know Christian and I have been sexting each other for an hour. I need a cold shower.
"When do you want breakfast," she calls out.
"Tell everyone I'm relaxing in a hot bubble bath. I'll take breakfast when brunch starts in an hour." I call back and head for the bathroom. The door to the suite is locked and I'm locking the door to the ensuite.
She recommends turning off my cell, locking the door and turning the music up to drown out the universe.
I go into the bathroom and run a hot bath, sinking into a tub full of foamy bubbles. There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them. I remembered a quote by Sylvia Plath. "Sylvia," I sighed. "You don't know my mother."
10:00 A.M.
Gail knocked on the door and entered with my breakfast tray. My breakfast tray holds a crystal bud vase with a single white rose and a one pound chocolate kiss, along with breakfast. She takes it to the small table set in the corner for me.
I smell my rose and laugh at the kiss. "Will you deliver this back to Christian? Also please keep everyone away for at least the next thirty minutes so I can eat a leisurely breakfast?"
"Brunch starts within ten minutes, they will be busy eating breakfast and talking," Gail assures me.
"Did my mother arrive yet?" I hug her.
Gail laughs, "Their driver misunderstood the directions to the estate. Carla and Bob will be arriving on time as planned…and not early as Carla directed. Marshall is stationed outside the door; she will make sure you are left alone for at least 30 minutes to eat breakfast. Grace has space for everyone to dress so everyone won't crowd into your suite while getting ready. Kate and Sophie will dress in Mia's room along with Mia. Your mother, Susan and Sam will dress in a separate suite. Frannie and Rachel are dressing with Grace in the master suite. I'm dressing in Christian's room. You won't have extraneous people in your suite while you are attempting to get ready."
Mummmm, breakfast. Ham; tomato, avocado and sharp cheddar omelet; a basket of mini citrus scones and mini slices of French toast; a petite orange and peach juice Bellini, and a tea-4-1 pot with hot water and English Breakfast tea bag out. I am pampered and left the hell alone. I should enjoy it while I can, because I think it's going to get Carla Crazy pretty soon.
Emails during brunch
From Christian to Ana
Do you want to play A game?
From Ana to Christian
Yes, please, entertain me while I'm eating breakfast. Those citrus scones smell heavenly.
From Christian to Ana
A is for Ana, who walks down the aisle and marries me today.
From Ana to Christian
B is for breakfast tray for the bride; brunch for the family, and bodyguard (Marshall) who will be on duty to keep you from seeing me before the wedding. I just got out of my bubble bath and no longer have bed head.
From Christian to Ana
C is for close calls. Taylor caught me trying to sneak up the stairs. C is also for cutting the cake. Ray asked that we please not smash the cake in each other's face. He'd like to see us be loving and kind when we feed each other the cake. I agreed to do that if he agreed to run interference with Carla.
From Ana to Christian
D is for decorum…yes, please, I would prefer not to wear cake. D is for dress…it is delicious. I'm looking at it…and I'm glad you will be the one to peel me out of it at the end of the day. D is for Dad – Ray's a good guy – set up a code with him for Carla blocking – tap your cufflinks, tap your toes, roll your eyes…whatever it is, Ray will intercede for us.
From Christian to Ana
E is for engagement ring and Elliott. Sorry to ask for your engagement ring back, baby, but I need it to slip inside the ring guard that is your wedding band. It can wait until the last minute, and then send it down to the pool house with Mia or Mom. Are we giving Elliott the rings? He might lose them. He's an airhead today.
From Ana to Christian
F is for football, fumble and forgetful…Mia wants to know if you remembered to get a football. She has a new one waiting in the marquee for when we do the garter toss. Fumble is for Elliott and Kate with our wedding rings at the altar. Forgetful is…Kate had better not have forgotten your ring! I'd better text her.
From Christian to Ana
G is for garter – and glad Mia remembered the football! Fumble is probably what the guys are going to do when I do the first garter toss. You remembered my joke; didn't you?
From Ana to Christian
H is for husband, happily ever after, honeymoon and hilarious. Yes, I remembered the item for the first garter toss. I'm wearing my garter on my left leg, and the item will be tucked in the side. You can't miss it.
From Christian to Ana
I is for intimate – thank for this small intimate wedding for us. It means almost as much to me as you do. I is for issues – your mother is here.
From Ana to Christian
J is for jitters…none here. Just so you know. J is also for Jason Taylor…let him help keep Bob and Carla at bay.
From Christian to Ana
K is for Kate – what is that woman doing with Taylor? Inquiring minds – Elliott for one – would like to know.
From Ana to Christian
L is for leave them alone. Kate emailed me. Carla insisted Kate conduct a "walk through" of Sophie's duties before the wedding started: instructions on walking and dropping rose petals and where to stand. Carla had better stay out of Kate's way for a while until her coffee kicks in. Marshall just sent Carla back down to the dining room. L is for livid; Carla's not happy to not have access to me right now.
From Christian to Ana
M is for mother of the bride who needs a mimosa to settle her nerves. M is for MUCH LONGER as in – I can't take this much longer. Brunch is becoming the breakfast from hell. If your mother has one more MOMZILLA MOMENT – I'm going to get her drunk and carry her to a guest room to sleep it off. M is for micro-manage. Taylor says if we change everything to your mother's suggestions, it's going to be a CHARLIE FOXTROT.
From Ana to Christian
N is for NO! I'd like Carla to be functional not non compos mentis until after we cut the cake and are on our way. N is for nervous mothers! Carla is acting this way because she is nervous. Your mom keeps checking in with Marshall…like she's worried I'm going to pull a run-away bride thing.
From Christian to Ana
O is for oh no he doesn't! Why is José making a list of "candid" pictures to take of you and everyone dressing? Stop this right now. Ask Susan and Samantha to take candid, getting-dressed pictures. I'm going to wring his neck.
From Ana to Christian
P is for photographer. Sarah will be here to take the before pictures. She's got the list we agreed on. José is not about to see me in my underwear. No one, except Kate and Samantha, is seeing me in my underwear until you take off my dress. No man, except Ray, is going to see my wedding dress before you do – not even security. Marshall is sending them all around to the other side of the house before Ray and I walk down the aisle. I will make sure Susan sends José down to get candid shots at the ceremony before I leave this room.
From Christian to Ana
Q is for quit it with the questions very quickly! Seriously, if Bob doesn't stop trying to talk business with me, and pick my brain – I'm going to ask Taylor to shoot him – and you know how I feel about guns.
From Ana to Christian
R is for Ray…tell him you need to have a father-son talk with him before the wedding. Then ask him to enlist Taylor, Theo and Carrick to sideline Bob.
From Christian to Ana
S is for speak now or forever hold your peace – Bob is killing me. S is for STFU. LOL. Rachel announced everyone has things to do, and to finish eating brunch so we can get busy. Rachel wants us to carry wedding favors and place cards down to the marquee and help her get them laid out properly. I think it's her way of clearing the house. Please tell me that S is for silk stockings? I don't know how I'm going to restrain myself when I reach up under your dress to remove the garter.
From Ana to Christian
T is for think again buddy. The garter is going to be just below my left knee so you don't get to cop a feel while removing it. After you throw the first item…you can retrieve the garter and put it on the football and give it a toss.
From Christian to Ana
U is for U wicked, wicked woman. The guys are going to howl. What are you doing to the girls? Throwing a rubber chicken?
From Ana to Christian
V is for very. I love you VERY much. V is for Vamoose. When I vamoose the ribbon holding the bouquet; it will separate and rain flowers on all the ladies.
From Christian to Ana
W is for wife – can't we start this soon? I can't wait to marry you.
From Ana to Christian
XXXOOO; I can't wait to marry you either. X is for the x-rated underwear Roz and Gwen got me for the honeymoon. Gail packed it in your suitcase.
From Christian to Ana
Y is for Yes – please – X-rated underwear!
From Ana to Christian
Z is for zoom. This was a fast month, and the day is flying by. I don't want our wedding to get over too quickly…but I want to zoom away with you, on the GEH jet, and show you today's X-rated underwear at 30,000 feet in the air.
From Christian to Ana
I only care that your feet are going to be in the air! ;)
From Ana to Christian
Stop kink winking at me. I have to get serious. My mother warned Marshall she wants 30 minutes alone with me for my 'marriage talk'.
From Christian to Ana
That's it; I'm sending Taylor to shoot your mother. She offered to help with the place cards and the favors because she wants to see the seating chart for the reception. She asked Rachel to change the bridal party table from a 10-person round to a 20-person rectangle so the parents can sit with us. Rachel told her the tables and seating chart are set. Now she's asking about some of the names on the place cards. Rachel told her that probably half of them are your guests and she doesn't know who all of them are.
From Ana to Christian
Shoot away…but make sure Taylor takes out that chicken-shit Bob while he's at it. He's not keeping any control on Carla or her mouth! I love your Aunt Rachel.
11:00 A.M.
"Mom," Christian hugged her. "It's beautiful – Ana's will love it."
"Carla thinks we ought to move the first row forward about two feet," she whispered to him. "She thought it was a little far away during rehearsal. I told her we have to leave enough space for the photographer to get pictures of the ceremony without capturing pictures of people's backs and butts. The truth is – there's a microphone in the top of the arch to pick up you and Ana saying your vows so everyone can hear. I didn't want you drowned out by the sound of Carla crying."
"You are the best," he said admiringly and kissed her on the cheek. "You think of everything. Ray's terrariums are perfect cornerstones for the ceremony area." One was stationed at each corner of the ceremony area with white lattice demi-walls between them, creating a U-shape which held the loveseats and the arch. The lattice was decorated with white satin and tulle ropes. Each terrarium held lush white rose bouquets in antique silver bowls. The arch; placed on the west side of the property; was tall enough to provide clearance for Christian's height and wide enough to hold the judge and the couple. White satin streamers, tulle and white roses decorated it. Under it was a small white platform for the couple and the judge to stand. Three white stepping stones on the bride's side of the arch and two on the groom's side were set for attendants to stand.
White wicker loveseats were staggered in rows of two love seats; followed by a row of three love seats; followed by two, and so on until there were eighteen love seats on either side of the 'aisle'. White satin covered ropes lying on the ground delineated the aisle. Rose-decorated kissing balls marked the first row of love seats as reserved. On Ana's side, Carla and Bob would be seated in love seat one; Ray would sit in loveseat two. Ana gave special instructions to seat the Kavanaghs in loveseat one, second row. Sam and Susan in loveseat two, second row, and Prescott and Sawyer in loveseat three, second row. On Christian's side, Grace and Carrick would sit in love seat one; Theo and Frannie in loveseat two. In row two, Ben and Rachel are assigned to loveseat one; Taylor and Gail to loveseat two; Ryan and the judge's wife to loveseat three. Everyone else is seated as they arrive and to even out the seating on each side. The staggered seats provided line-of-sight to the arch and to Lake Washington in the background. Propped on a white easel near the entrance was Kate's choose a seat sign, propped on a white easel near the entrance, let everyone know they would be seated to even out the numbers on both sides as Ethan and Elliott seated people.
White rose topiaries, in white pots with fluttering blush and grey ribbons, placed at intervals along both sides of the sidewalk, marked where the female attendants would walk from the house to the lawn area leading to the ceremony. Heart-shaped wreaths of white roses and greens with fluttering blush and grey ribbons decorated the front doors of the house and the windows of the boat house. A row boat, filled with a carpet of white roses, moored at the dock. A row of potted trees blocked off the back lawn, garages, pool and pool house from line of site of the ceremony.
Grace housed the string quartet in a small white lattice gazebo, decorated with roses and tulle between the marquee and the ceremony area. The registration table would be located near the drop area for the cars. Half a dozen security staff would act as valets to park the cars and show the guests where to go for the ceremony.
Half a dozen white wicker love seats were positioned south of the marquee against another row of potted trees. They were interspersed with more rose topiaries. "The trees hide a dozen luxury portable bathrooms; they have wedding color coordinated towels, décor, soaps, etc." Grace murmured.
The white marquee, large enough to hold 400 people, hosted a dance floor in the top quarter with space for the DJ. The second quarter of the marquee held an open area for cocktails, appetizers, conversation and a photography nook. The nook held a white wicker love seat tucked under a smaller version of the wedding arch and two topiaries at the corners. The third quarter of the marquee held 12 circular tables to hold eight to ten people. The tables were set with tablecloths and place settings. The place cards, wedding favors and centerpieces were set for each table also. The last quarter of the tent was for the buffet stations and the rolling tea cart to hold the cake. Four silver chandeliers cast a soft glow to the marquee.
"The west wall of the marquee can roll up so we can see the sunset on the water if that's what you and Ana want. Is everything the way you pictured it? Speak now or forever hold your piece." Grace chuckled.
"It's wonderful," Christian said. "Thank you mom," He kissed her cheek again and wrapped his arm around her shoulder as they walked up to the house. "Listen," he said in a low voice of conspiracy, "Carla is really nervous – so Ana says keep her away from the booze. If Carla suggests something needs to be changed or done differently; please tell her it has to be approved through Ana first. If Ana approves the suggestion; she will delegate it to be done."
"Can do…no Carla changes." Grace wrapped her arm around Christian's waist. Thank god for Ana. The thing she wanted most for all her children was that they love and be loved. She knew Ana was special the day Christian introduced her.
Carrick took a quick picture of them walking back to the house and emailed it to Grace's phone. Bliss…that was the look on Grace's face…pure bliss. He smiled to himself; Christian was happier now than he had ever been…and all because of the beautiful petite blue-eyed girl upstairs. He was tempted to bail Elena out of jail just to watch Ana punch her smarmy mouth again. He arranged for the commissary to deliver a special package to Elena tomorrow – sparkling apple juice and Hostess Cupcakes to celebrate the wedding. He made arrangements with GEH Communications Team to send a dozen of the Sunday Seattle Times to the jail…just to make sure Elena saw the announcement of Christian and Ana's wedding.
XX
"Out, out, OUT!" Carla shouted at José. "Go take pictures of the men. You can't take pictures of Ana. Christian might ask to see her in her dress before the wedding."
"Fine," José huffed. "Steele, see you in three hours!" He stormed out of the room. Damn it, when was he going to get Ana alone to ask if this is what she really wanted? He reached in his pocket for his cell and thought about texting her – but the sight of the bodyguards who were anxious to get him off this floor of the house stopped him.
"Everyone. Calm. Down." Susan ordered. "Sam can take pictures of Ana getting ready IF Ana's comfortable getting her picture taken in her underwear."
"Which I'm not!" I called out through the bathroom door. "I'm not coming out of this bathroom until all of you GO AWAY."
Carla started to argue though the bathroom door. "The time for being alone with your thoughts is over. Kate, pour some champagne and let's party! It's your wedding day!"
"I don't want champagne…I want peace and quiet. I want the aesthetician to listen to me without interruptions or opinions from other people! I mean it!" Ana yelled, "Everyone out except Kate and Samantha! No one is allowed in this room until I'm dressed and ready for Sarah, the formal photographer. Rachel…we're supposed to be getting an influx of deliveries about now. Mia…can you make sure Sophie is dressed and ready for pictures? Kate…did you remember to bring Christian's ring? Susan…please check with Grace; I think we're doing formal pictures on the steps outside the library at two o'clock."
Carla moved next to the bathroom door to make sure Ana heard her over everyone talking in the room. "Nonsense, some lovely champagne will wet your throat and then we can listen to your vows. Are you sure you included everything you wanted to say? I had the most marvelous idea; Ethan should escort me from the house and down the aisle and Bob can follow behind. Oh, and the pearls are lovely, dear, but I think I'll wear them with the clasp showing. It's so pretty. Where's my dress? I thought I would get dressed in here with you in case you need help."
Ana called out again. "MOM! Take an anti-anxiety pill for you and then take one for me! You're making me a nervous wreck! I'm not reciting my vows. I wrote them for Christian; everyone will hear them during the wedding when I say them to him. The processional was set at rehearsal. We're not changing it at the last minute. Bob is to be seated when Theo and Frannie are seated. I promised Christian that Ray would be the first and only man to see me in my wedding dress until I walk down the aisle. You are wearing your pearls like everyone else, clasp… nape of neck. Please don't make me ask someone to be the jewelry and photo police." I will Photoshop you out of the pictures. Don't think I won't! Bridezilla has spoken.
I took a deep breath. "Susan…where is my mother getting dressed? No one is getting dressed in this suite but me." I texted Susan: Make sure Carla's aesthetician has adequate time and uses waterproof mascara and makeup! I don't want her to feel rushed, because it will make her anxious. Please limit her intake of champagne…like make her mimosas ultra-weak. Or remind her to pace herself so that she's able to party with us after the wedding? Please make sure my mother is dressed and ready for pictures by one-thirty. Then, please deliver her to Grace. Will that give you and Samantha time to get to the reception table?
We can make it work. Susan texted back. "All right…everyone out. Ana needs her privacy. Carla, let's go find that suite where we're supposed to get dressed." Susan held the door open and indicated everyone needed to leave; closing it firmly behind her.
"Everyone's gone," Sam knocked on the bathroom door.
I peeked out of the bathroom before entering the bedroom suite again. "Sam, I know you don't have your gun, so ask Marshall to guard the door and keep everyone out. I mean everyone; no Grace, no Carla, no Frannie, no Rachel, no Mia; just Gail, Kate and you. The aestheticians can come in and out, but that's it." I collapsed on the bed with a cold compress on my head. "Kate…where's that bridal first aid kit? I need an aspirin. Remind me, when I have a lucid moment after the wedding, to give Gail a raise."
"Marshall," Sam said quietly, closing the door behind her. "Ana is having a mini-meltdown right now. It might be a good idea to keep everyone except Gail, Kate and me out of that room unless you want to see the Jimmy Choos fly."
"Do no harm; take no shit," Marshall nodded. "Got it. Who do I call for backup if Momzilla comes around again?"
"My mom should keep her in lock down; but here's our numbers anyway," Sam gave Marshall the cell numbers for both.
Noon
Rachel sighed. The decorators just left. They left six huge boxes for Elliott near the garage, with a banner that said, "Just Married". Rachel suspected Elliott arranged decorations for the car, but did not announce the delivery to Christian or Ana. After the men helped deliver favors and place cards to the marquee; they clowned around for several minutes. However; when they were done, they were off to the pool house to dress and entertain themselves before the wedding.
The flowers arrived and Kate separated them by use. Kate sent the roses to decorate the cake to the marquee for the baker. The centerpieces were sent to the marquee. The men's boutonnières were sent to the pool house. The ladies' flowers were delivered to their suites. Extra flowers for family and friends were marked and delivered to Rachel.
The caterer arrived. Half of the serving staff arrived. Gail ensured the caterer knew where to set up. The cake just arrived, in separate tiers in a refrigerated van. She ensured the baker knew where to set up the cake. The baker needed to assemble the wedding cake on the rolling tea cart where it will be served.
When Rachel reported the aestheticians were in with the girls and Carla; Grace headed for her and Carrick's bedroom. She wanted a few moments of quiet before getting ready for the wedding. Rachel, Susan and Gail seem to have everyone and everything under control; along with the security staff. Grace sighed. Her own aesthetician was due in twenty minutes. She lay on the floor in her bedroom, propped her feet up on the bed and meditated. Mostly she sent prayers of thank you to heaven for Ana. Christian was a different man since Ana entered his life. She sent a risqué text to Carrick, to thank him for the wonderful picture of her and her son.
1:00 p.m. – 1 hour to pictures; 1.5 hours to the wedding
"Everyone has their clothes. I've reassured your mother, twice, that her gown is the right style for a young mother-of-the-bride, and is certainly not dowdy. I also assured her it looks great with her coloring." Sam reported. "I also gave secret orders to the aesthetician to go LIGHT and WATERPROOF on the makeup per your request. I also requested no virginal blush and no red lipstick. Kate's gone to Mia's room to dress and make sure Mia and Sophie are dressed and ready to go."
I slip off my engagement ring. "Will you give this to Grace to give to Christian? I need her grandmother's wedding band. Once I'm dressed, it's just finishing my hair and pictures and walking down the aisle and the wedding, and…" my voice shook.
Sam put her hand lightly on my shoulder. "You're in the home stretch now, Steele. You are the baton carrier, you will not break stride, and you will make it to the finish line."
"God, I've forgotten how much you make me laugh," I shake my head.
XX
"It's not working," I said. "I need to wear it, but I can't wear it on my finger. I'm worried if I pin it to the inside of my dress that the pin will come undone and I will lose it."
"What leg is your garter on?" Gail asked.
"Left," I replied. "But since we're going to throw it, I can't tie the ring to it, although it has extra ribbons."
"Let's borrow a chain bracelet from Grace; put the ring on it, and you can wear it as an ankle bracelet on your right leg. You'll be wearing it, but the gold won't show in the pictures. Which is why I assume you don't want your mother's necklace clasp showing?"
"God, I love you!" I tell her.
"Improvise, overcome, adapt," Gail murmurs the Marine Corps motto to me before she goes in search of a bracelet. "I'll check Kate, Mia and Sophie's hair to make sure no one has extra bling or flashy hair styles. Hair of the day: down, curled and simple. I don't want to stress you, but I have to quote Steel Magnolias…your mother's hair looks like a brown football helmet."
I roll my eyes. "Blush and Bashful…pink is my signature color," I chant. I don't know how my mother does it…a southern accent sounds so wrong coming from my mouth.
"How precious is this wedding going to be?" Gail quotes back at me and goes in search of a bracelet from Grace.
Not as precious as my mother wants, but it's my wedding, and my choices, I confidently tell my reflection in the mirror.
1:45 P.M. – 45 minutes to the wedding – 15 minutes to pictures
"Your dress is beautiful," Kate sighed. "Your hair is perfect, your makeup is perfect and your veil is perfect. Take a deep breath and remember to walk slowly down the aisle." She took a couple more candid shots of me.
I stood there in a white satin column dress with an embroidered silk lace A-line train-length overlay. The embroidered silk lace has petite roses accented with tiny seed pearls. The long lace sleeves button demurely at my wrist with a tiny pearl button. A fitted sweetheart bodice has lace overlay. Carla will be pleased with the lace overlay. It is so reminiscent of the lace on Kate Middleton's dress. The back of the dress is simple with lace covered buttons from the nape of my neck to my tail bone. It took forever for Samantha and Kate to button me up…and I smile to myself knowing how long it will take for Christian to peel me out of my dress. Such delicious torture! My hair, normally unruly, is subdued and wavy, held in place by the lace and pearl headpiece which holds my veil. The elbow-length veil is layers of simple tulle with lace borders which match the overlay of my dress and my headpiece. I'm wearing my pearl earrings and necklace from Ray. They were meant to accessorize this dress. My blue garter with the hidden surprise is in place. My something old, something new, something borrowed and the sixpence in my shoe are in place. I have a flashback, and it's not pretty.
XX
"Sixpence," Carla asked curiously. "Why a sixpence? Bob has a new 2011 penny for your shoe. It's customary for the father to do that. Bob doesn't get to walk you down the aisle or have the first dance with you. He should at least have this."
"A sixpence is my way of honoring Frank Lambert at the wedding. I received his genealogy chart when I visited his grave. At least four generations of Lamberts are from England. In Great Britain the saying is: Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe. Before Victorian times, it was the Lord of the Manor who gave the bride the silver sixpence. During Victorian times, a silver sixpence in the bride's shoe symbolized a traditional good luck wedding gesture. After Victorian times, it is the father of the bride who places the sixpence in her shoe as a symbol of him wishing her prosperity, love and happiness in her marriage."
"You and your books!" She sniped. "Frank's not here and it's important to Bob to have at least this tradition for your wedding. He can put it in your shoe before you walk down the aisle."
"Sorry, Carla…the silver sixpence is already taped in the bottom of my left shoe. I have no intention of any man seeing me in my dress, except Ray, before I walk down the aisle. Grace is going to coordinate everyone not turning around until I reach the ceremony area. That way Christian gets to see me in my dress before the rest of crowd."
"Well…," she paused again. "That's just taking the no-one-sees-my-dress-until-the-ceremony stuff too far. How are Bob and I going to get formal pictures taken with you before the wedding if he can't see you until the ceremony?"
"Formal pictures with all parents are scheduled after the ceremony," I tell her firmly. "I'm getting pictures with my attendants, you and Ray before the ceremony. Christian is getting pictures with his parents and attendants before the ceremony also. We've allotted thirty minutes for pictures after the ceremony."
Carla sighed. "Does your photographer have a list of the pictures to be taken? I don't want Bob feeling like a fifth wheel at this event."
"It's not an event…it's MY wedding," I said firmly.
"It would be the event it should be if you held it next June, invited 500 people, held it in an appropriate place, wore a Vera Wang designed wedding gown, and had a proper amount of attendants." She sniped.
XX
"Did you get the bridal bouquet the way I asked?" I hold it, examining it.
"Trust me," Kate said. "The florist and I practiced this a dozen times with a silk rose bouquet. When it's time, turn your back to us, untie and pull the lace ribbon and slip off the plastic holder. Then throw your bouquet. It will separate and toss roses in all kinds of directions for the single ladies to catch. We tested with all different numbers and sizes of roses. This bouquet is the perfect size." She grinned.
"You so rock," I hug her.
"You know what rocks? Your guestbook rocks. Your mother is obsessed about it…she wants to know why you can't have a traditional guestbook along with the rocks." Kate's eyes danced with laughter.
"Because I don't want a traditional guest book which will linger in a trunk or a drawer somewhere. The rocks and the vase are great. We will use them so much more than a silly traditional guestbook." I sigh.
"Trust you to do something to make your mother freak out." Kate laughs.
"I owe you a bottle of Cristal if she doesn't comment about the bouquet flying apart," We both laughed.
"I might as well order up a bottle of Bollinger now, because I know she's going to say something and I'm going to lose the bet." Kate groused. "It's okay as long as her comment makes me laugh. If you think my valedictorian speech was good…wait until you hear my maid-of-honor speech."
"Ray is on his way up, he wants to see you before your mom does. I'm helping my mom round up the ladies and guide them down to the library. Then we're going to the reception table. Have Gail give us a shout if you need anything." Sam checked her phone and slipped it in her pocket. "You did not have to buy clothes, jewels and flowers for us…we were glad to be here to help you."
"Your reward for all your hard work today is getting to sit beside Sawyer at the reception. You need that dress to keep his eyes on you," I promise.
"Bribery will get you everywhere girlfriend. However, I've planned for contingencies. I wrote my name and all my numbers and emails on the biggest rock in your collection. I'm going to slip it in Sawyer's pocket when we are dancing. Mom and I are bringing the pens and the rocks to cocktail hour in case someone forgot to sign in." She hugged me and departed, holding the door open for Ray to enter and for Kate to depart.
"Annie," he sighed. "You are so pretty. I brought Sarah with me. She wants a few pictures of us together."
1:50 P.M.
"Your dresses are quite lovely," Carla sighed.
"Sleeveless, scoop neck, empire waist dress in crinkle satin, with tulle overlay draped skirt. Fully lined with boning in the bodice for support and shape," Kate explained. "Once Ana gave us the color samples, it was easy to find something we both liked."
You like the shoes and handbag too?" Mia asked. "We're not carrying the handbags. We're sending them down to the marquee."
"Absolutely," Carla replied. "Now that I've seen you wear Ana's attendant gifts, I approve."
"I'm glad you approved the three-rose linear bouquets for us to carry instead of the single stemmed rose or the wrist corsage. These will look so much better in the pictures." Kate commented. "Bracelets on our right wrists to hold the bouquet over the left arm."
XX
Carla is speechless when I enter the room with Ray. It doesn't last long…the speechlessness.
"The dress…it's very…you," she shrugged. "Embroidered lace has become popular since Kate Middleton got married in April. Your bouquet could be a little grander, but the flowers overall have been acceptable. I was right; you should have had a tiara. Although, the lace and pearl headpiece does coordinate well with the veil and your dress. Here, let me arrange your veil over your face. Sarah, will you get pictures of me while I do this?"
"Seriously? I'm uncoordinated walking in heels and you want the veil to hinder my view?" I laugh and move out of her reach. "Besides, we didn't practice veil lifting during the rehearsal. I'm walking into this with my eyes wide open, remember?"
"I told you to practice walking in your wedding shoes," she comments.
Susan and Gail intervene and start sending everyone outside for pictures.
We stop for formal pictures on the steps outside the library. In the background I can hear the string quartet playing. Sarah flawlessly handles my mother, her questions and her requests for more pictures. "Mrs. Adams…there is no time to rearrange everyone by the heart wreaths at the front door for pictures…it's time to line up."
Gail lines everyone up. Grace is at the bottom of the sidewalk. Carla is at the top. Gail and Rachel slip away and go take their seats at the ceremony. When Grace steps off the sidewalk to be seated by Elliott; Carla begins her walk down the sidewalk. When she steps off the sidewalk to be seated by Ethan; Mia begins her walk. When she steps off the sidewalk; Kate is in position to begin her walk.
I have a few seconds to talk with Sophie and thank her for being my junior bridesmaid. Her grey dress has an ankle-length full skirt. She wears lacy white knee high socks and white patent Mary Jane shoes. She carries a white basket with grey, white and blush ribbons. It is full of white rose petals. Her pearl necklace and headband are perfect for a young girl. She asks me to make sure she gets a picture with her dad. I promise; then it's her turn to start. She takes three steps, drops a petal or two and starts walking again. Ray and I are hysterical watching her concentrated efforts to do a good job. When she gets to the end of the sidewalk…Ray and I begin our walk. The rose topiaries are lovely, and the sight of them makes me relax.
"Promise we won't rush down the aisle," Ray asks. "I'm sure you and Christian are a forever thing, so I'm only going to get to do this once. I want to take it slow and enjoy the moment. Also, I want to pause at the beginning of the path to the ceremony. I want you to stop and look at everything, because there won't be time to do it later. I want you to have memories of how everything looked. I don't want you to have to rely on pictures to remember this special day."
"Works for me," I smile at him. "Kate made me promise to walk slow and torture Christian." I sigh. "Ray, I have a huge favor to ask…"
2:30 p.m. - Grey Estate, Bellevue - The Ceremony
"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?" Judge Heath Gibson asked.
"I give myself, freely; without hesitation or reservation, to be married to this man," I say, to the surprise and shock of Carla and everyone who was at rehearsal. Ray was supposed to say her mother and I, but he understood when I asked to give myself away. Ray kissed my cheek and shook Christian's hand. He ignored Carla clearing her throat and took his seat.
XX
"Christian Trevelyan Grey, I promise to be your navigator, your wingman and your first mate as we fly, soar or sail through life. I promise to be your devoted wife, your soul mate, your constant love and your best friend. I promise to share the laughter, the tears, the love, the adventure that will be our lives together. The first time we held hands; I felt a connection to you I could not explain. I understand that connection now. You are the love of my life, my forever, my happily-ever-after. With all my heart, I share my life with you, to hold your hand, to walk beside you and to celebrate our love forever; no matter what our lives may bring." I placed his wedding ring on his finger and kissed it.
"Anastasia Rose Steele – You are the most beautiful, smart and loving person I have ever known. For now and forever, I promise to laugh with you, cry with you, support you, cherish you, respect you and love you. I promise to protect you from book destroying insects, inadequate book shelves, invasive paparazzi and zealous shoppers – especially family ones. You are my first, my more, my love, my life. Thank you for understanding my heart; for protecting my heart and for wanting to share your heart with me. I cannot wait to walk by your side through life as your friend, your lover and your husband." Christian placed my wedding ring on my finger and kissed it.
XX
Christian and I stood between the marquee and the ceremony area, close to the string quartet. I was first, followed by Christian, Ray, Carla, Bob, Grace and Carrick. We welcomed ] guests and sent them on to the marquee. Gail had a layout of the tables and where the guests were to be seated. José would man the photography nook and take pictures of the guests as they posed. Guests sipped light cocktails and wine while nibbling on appetizers. Servers in white shirts and black pants carried trays of grilled giant prawns and miniature crab cakes; and kept the antipasti buffet stocked.
"How's it going?" Zann asked quietly, hugging me.
"A proper receiving line has the attendants in it; and it would be polite to include the grandparents." I quoted. "She's lucky we're having one at all. Christian and I didn't want to do it. We wanted to walk from table to table and individually thank everyone for coming and introduce people as needed."
"Just breathe…take a deep breath when she oversteps or attempts to overstep and call her on it. It's your wedding; it should not be filled with confrontations with your mother. This is your time with Christian. If she oversteps again, calmly say….
"My wedding…my choices," I finish the sentence with a smile. "Christian, may I introduce my friend, Alexandra Scott and her husband Mitchell. Zann, this is my husband Christian." I passed Zann off to Christian who performed introductory services for Ray, Carla, Bob, Grace and Carrick.
XX
"Carla, enough pictures," Ray called out. "I came here to party, not rearrange Annie's ceremony area for pictures; and not to stand in front of the house, the boat house, the trees, the pier, the gazebo or the pool house for pictures. Enough - I can hear Annie's stomach growling. She's exhausted and I'm desperate for a drink."
"Are you ready for your introduction, Mrs. Grey?" Christian tucked Ana's hand into his arm and started walking up the aisle toward the marquee. Ray was right, enough was enough. How many bloody fucking pictures did Carla need of them anyway? They'd all be standing on their heads in the next one.
"Rachel, will you warn the DJ we're coming and need an introduction? We want to do our first dance immediately afterwards; followed by a drink and dinner. Mom, if you can get everyone into the marquee and settled at their tables, Ana and I will be along in a minute or two." He led her to the gazebo where the string quartet had been and held his wife gently in his arms. "Hand to God, Ana – I'm really tired of Cruise Director Carla." He whispered in her ear.
"Me too," she whispered. "Just give me a kiss, hold me, and as soon as possible, please my husband, take me away."
XX
"Ladies and gentlemen… May I introduce Mr. and Mrs. Christian Grey?"
Christian and Ana walked through the entrance to the marquee to much applause. Ana handed off her bouquet to Kate. They went immediately to the dance floor for the bride and groom's first dance. Christian swept Ana into his arms to the song Here We Go by Jon Brion.
Jon Brion - Here We Go
You've gotta hope that there's someone for you
As strange as you are
Who can cope with the things that you do
Without trying too hard
Because you can bend the truth until it's suiting you
These things that you're wrapping all around you
You never know what they will amount to
And your life is just going on without you
It's the end of the things you know, here we go
You've gotta know that there's more to this world
Than what you have seen
Because we all have a limited view
Of what we can be
As we move along with our blinders on
Each one of us feels a little stranded
And you can't explain or understand it
Each one of us on a different planet
And amidst all the to and fro
Someone can say hello, here we go
The feeling that someone really gets you
It's something that no one should object to
It could happen today
So I suggest you skip your habit of laying low
It's the end of the things you know, here we go
Because someone can say, "Hello here we go"
When they were done, the DJ segued into the next arranged dance. "Ladies and gentlemen…the bridal party." Christian and Ana, Elliott and Kate, Ethan and Mia, and Taylor and Sophie took over the dance floor for What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.
When the dance was done, Christian and Ana posed at the photography nook for a picture. Christian sat on the loveseat and Ana stood behind him, her hand with her wedding ring on his shoulder. The picture was reminiscent of photographs from the Victorian era, and Christian planned it that way.
"No, mom, no more formal pictures at this setting. We set it up to get pictures of the guests; not commander it for the entire reception," Ana said. "Christian and I are going to start the buffet line. We're already behind schedule and are going to have to cut items to get back on schedule."
"Items like what?" Carla sounded horrified.
"Extra, unplanned dances," Christian said cryptically and led Ana to the buffet line.
XX
"We already had a receiving line," Carla said pointedly, looking at a rough schedule in her hands. "If you skip going from table to table, there's plenty of time for more pictures and time for you to change into an appropriate going-away outfit."
Ana sighed and set her fork down, ignoring her food which netted her a frown from Christian. "We had a receiving line which we didn't plan, followed by an additional half hour of pictures which we didn't plan. Once everyone's been through the buffet line and are seated, Christian and I are going table to table to say hello to everyone and thank them for sharing today with us. We're urging everyone to get pictures taken at the photography nook if they haven't done so already. Then we'll start with more dances. I didn't bring an appropriate going away outfit because I'm not changing before we leave. Christian is not changing before we leave. There is simply no time."
"Ana needs to eat, Carla," Christian said gently. "I don't want her fainting during the dancing or getting light-headed when we do toasts.
XX
"Ladies and gentlemen…the father- daughter dance." Ray led Ana to the floor and they danced to My Wish for You by Rascal Flatts. Sarah circulated through the room to get different shots of them dancing. José circulated through the guests, taking pictures. He captured a lovely picture of Carla and Bob in a quietly heated spat.
My Wish
I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,
But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more than you take.
But more than anything, yeah, and more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big.
When they finished their dance, both Ana and Ray had tears in their eyes. Kate raced up with a linen and lace handkerchief for Ana and two glasses of champagne.
"I love you little girl," Ray whispered to her, clinking his glass with hers.
"I love you too," she whispered back, and they toasted one another.
"Ladies and gentlemen…this song is for all the fathers and daughters." Bob joined Ana, while Theo escorted Grace, while Keaton escorted Kate, while Carrick escorted Mia, while Taylor escorted Sophie. Ray sought out Samantha and she joined him on the floor. They danced to Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle.
As they left the dance floor Ana stopped Taylor. "It's very important to Sophie that she have a picture taken with you," she said quietly and gestured in the direction of the photography nook.
Taylor nodded. "We've cleaned up well," he admitted. "We'll be over there if you need us." He grinned. "It will frost her mother's ass when she finds out Sophie was here rubbing elbows with the cream of society."
Ana inclined her head in her mother's direction, "Maybe not…some people act like their cream is curdled."
Taylor laughed. "Well, in that case, I think I need to buy a collection picture frame and put lots of Sophie and Daddy pictures from today in it." He kissed Ana on the cheek while she laughed.
Once everyone was seated, the DJ handed the mike to Ray.
"Annie, I wasn't going to say a toast, but you know sometimes you just have to give in to your mother." He waited for the muffled snorts, howls and giggles to die down. "Here is to my daughter, Annie and her new husband, Christian. I was worried about Annie marrying Christian. I was worried I was going to lose a good fishing partner. However, Christian and I each gained something wonderful today. He gains an adoring wife and a life-long companion, while I gain new fishing partners, Theodore, Carrick and Elliott. I gain new hunting partners, Taylor and Sawyer. I gain new camping partners, Susan and Samantha. I also gain a new target if Christian messes up…this is a gentle reminder, son…if Annie ain't happy…Daddy ain't happy. So, raise your glasses everyone, a toast to Annie and Christian." Ray held up his champagne glass and everyone toasted.
He walked over to kiss Annie and shake hands with Christian. Theo and Taylor laughed loudest. Carla scowled. José felt a little guilty, he was capturing awful pictures of Carla, but she pissed him off when she shouted at him and sent him from Ana's room.
XX
Ladies and gentlemen…this song is for the groom and his mother." Christian led Grace to the floor and they swirled gracefully to You Raise Me Up by Josh Groban.
"Ladies and gentlemen…this song is for all mothers and sons." Ben led Frannie, Elliott led Grace, Ethan led Celeste and Christian surprised Carla with a request to dance with him. The DJ played Sweet Child of Mine by James Taylor. Sarah seemed to understand the importance of Christian's gesture and took several pictures of Carla and Christian.
Once everyone sat down, the DJ handed the mike to Elliott.
"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, family, friends and frequent flyers…I'm Elliott Grey, the good-looking brother of the groom. One month ago, when Christian and Ana announced their engagement…the world was shocked. Our family was shocked. Since Christian never was a ladies' man; we had doubts this day would ever come. However, Christian has always excelled at anything he's done – good athlete, great scholar, and astute businessman. We should not have been surprised when we heard Christian had proposed. As in business; when Christian knew that Ana was the one for him; nothing stood in the way of the greatest acquisition of his life – Ana's heart. I speak for all of us when I say we hope your vows are still as special to you when we celebrate your diamond anniversary. Your love is an inspiration to us all." Elliott started to raise his glass, when he heard Frannie clear her throat. "Oh; one last thing, Ana, darling – my grandparents would like you to hide Christian's laptop and his smart phone until after baby number three is born. To Ana, my new sister, may today be the happy beginning of the next generation of the Grey family."
The marquee could not contain the laughter. Carla frowned and sipped her champagne. José captured lots of candid pictures today. As amazing as Ana looked, with loving and lovely expressions on her face – Carla's seemed skewed in perpetual disappointment, disapproval, distain and distemper. José chuckled to himself. Despite what he felt for Ana; he realized Christian Grey bit the bullet by taking that woman on as a Momzilla-in-law.
"Ladies and gentlemen…the parents dance." Ray swept Grace out onto the floor as Carrick lead Carla. They danced to the song, Sunrise Sunset from Fiddler on the Roof. Carrick deliberately planned it that way. He liked Ray almost as much as he liked Ana. He didn't want Carla to be after Ray during the dance to help her rearrange whatever she wanted at the reception.
Sunrise Sunset
Is this the little girl I carried?
Is this the little boy at play?
I don't remember growing older
When did they?
When did she get to be a beauty?
When did he grow to be so tall?
Wasn't it yesterday
When they were small?
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly flow the days
Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
Blossoming even as we gaze
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears
What words of wisdom can I give them?
How can I help to ease their way?
Now they must learn from one another
Day by day
They look so natural together
Just like two newlyweds should be
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears
"Everyone…the bride and groom requested an 'all family' song. Please members of the Steele family and the Grey family – select a partner." The DJ played, Unforgettable by Natalie and Nat King Cole. Ana danced with Theo; Christian danced with Frannie; Elliott danced with Grace; Ray danced with Mia; Ben danced with Carla; and Carrick danced with Rachel.
Once everyone sat down, the DJ handed the mike to Kate.
"Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends…Elliott and Christian…I am Kate Kavanagh; best friend of the bride and maid of honor. Every millennium or so…two people met, and you know they are meant to be together. The planets align, the stars shine brightly in the heavenly skies, and Fate determines these two people's paths should cross…but enough about how Elliott and I met each other."
Everyone burst into laughter; José almost wet himself trying to control his laughter. He missed a great shot...Carla sputtering in her champagne.
"Christian, Ana was my roommate for four years. You know she is beautiful, smart and a great cook. What you may not realize is she has an appalling addiction to classic British literature, she has an appalling obsession with British movies, she finds British comedies funny, she hates coffee, she hates shopping, and she hates girly dates. If you can live with these quirks, she's great to be around. If you are as lucky as I think you are…she will love you more than jeans and Converse; hunting, fishing and camping; or that tasteless English Breakfast tea she drinks. If you remember you are vying for her attention with the literary gentlemen and heroes she adores; you'll be fine." Kate continued her speech.
José and José Senior lead the laughter this time. Carla ignored Kate and concentrated on staring at fixed points around the room.
"Christian, today you received the best present you will ever receive in your life. I'm sharing my best friend with you. She will be your best friend. Ray and Carla are sharing their daughter with you. She will be your home, your comfort, your joy. Ana's friends who are here are sharing her with you. She will always be there for you. I know you two are meant to be together; you are each other's happily-ever-after. Everyone please join me in congratulating the very beautiful bride, my best friend Ana, and her prince charming, Christian."
The DJ played All My Life by Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville softly in the background as the wedding cake was wheeled forward for Christian and Ana to cut. The lit tea candles in frosted votives at the corner of each tier lent a soft romantic glow to the cake with its white frosting, fresh real white roses and silver-plated cake topper in their initials A&C.
"Give it to him good," Kate yelled.
"Bite her finger!" José yelled.
"It's your dress," Christian looked at the white lace decorations on the cake.
"I gave Gail a piece of lace that matched my dress to have it recreated on the cake. Do you like it?" Ana asked.
"I love it. I love that you will use the cake topper for a paper weight on the desk in your office." He kissed her gently. Christian and Ana posed and then cut the first piece of cake and put it on a plate. Holding it between them, they each took a two inch by two inch square to feed to the other.
"Me first," she said gently, feeding him the cake, and loving it when he gently bit her fingers. "Behave," she scolded, blushing when the bite turned into an ardent kiss on her hand.
"I love making sure you eat," he laughed, ignoring the cat calls from the guests who urged him to smash the cake in her face. He held her bite gently, letting her nibble and swallow, leaning down to kiss her pouty pink lips.
Ray sighed to himself. Annie hated getting dressed up and she hated makeup. He was proud Christian appreciated her efforts to look beautiful for him today; and heeded his father-in-law's warning.
Christian led his bride for another dance around the floor to Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars. When they finished dancing, Christian asked for a dance for all the married couples and the DJ played Georgia by Ray Charles. Christian and Ana went from table to table urging all couples to dance while the cake was being cut and served.
The next song, Someday Lady You'll Accompany Me by Bob Seger, caused Carla to seek out Ray. "It's our song," she said pointedly.
"Sorry, Susan asked me to dance," Ray said. "If you and Bob have a special song, I'm sure the DJ would be glad to play it for you." He smiled down at Susan leading her to the dance floor.
Carla's eyes narrowed as Ray and Susan took the dance floor. She went in search of Ana. "Ana; did Mia make arrangements for your top tier and cake topper to be taken up to the house at the end of the evening?" Carla interrupted the conversation between Ana and Christian with a table of people. She could not remember the strangers from the receiving line. She really wasn't able to concentrate on the receiving line because it should have been longer with the entire bridal party present. Why did Ana insist that everything be so simple!
"Mia and Grace coordinated everything; there's nothing to stress about; nothing to micromanage. Carla, you know the Kavanaghs. You know José Senior. This is John and Rhiann Flynn; friends of Christian's. This is my friend, Alexandra Scott and her husband Mitchell." Hands were shaken all around.
"Are you a co-worker of Ana's," Carla asked Zann graciously.
"Ana, do you have a problem with my telling Carla how I know you?" Zann asked.
"Certainly not; we have nothing to hide," Ana's eyes twinkled.
Flynn watched quietly as this discourse took place.
"One of Ana's tasks during couple's counseling was to find out about her biological father, Frank Lambert, so that she's aware of his medical history when she and Christian are ready to start a family. I'm originally from Barstow. I'm pleased you named Ana after Frank's great-aunt Rosalind Lambert. Rosalind knew my family. I knew Frank from high school. I told Ana where to find Frank's grave." Zann paused; watching Carla's face. "Ana and I meet twice a month for tea and we talk."
Mitch tugged at her arm.
"Delightful to meet you," Zann said smoothly. "But my husband wants to dance; and you know…if a man's willing to dance…you have to strike before he gets cold feet…no that's not right…strike while the music is hot…no that's not right either." Mitch pulled out her chair and away they went, followed by the Kavanaghs, the Flynns and José Senior who went in search of José and the photographer, Sarah.
Christian and Ana moved on to the next table. Carla returned to her seat next to Bob and held out her champagne glass to a passing server.
"Do you feel well?" He asked solicitously. "You are so pale."
"I feel like a ghost just danced on my grave," she said.
XX
"This is a dance for married people only, but we're going to do it differently. Those of you married five years or less, take the dance floor." The DJ announced. Christian held out his hand to Ana and guided her to the dance floor. They were joined by Bob and Carla.
"Those of you married ten years or less may take the dance floor." He announced. Gwen and Roz and the Loeders took to the dance floor.
A minute later, "Those of you married fifteen years or less may take the dance floor." The DJ announced. Welch and his wife, the Flynns and Max and his wife stepped up to dance.
A minute later, "Those married twenty years or less may take the dance floor." Judge Gibson and his wife advanced to the dance floor.
Another minute later, the DJ announced, "Those of you married more than twenty years, please take the dance floor. Grace and Carrick, Frannie and Theo, Ben and Rachel, the Kavanaghs, the Scotts, Mr. and Mrs. Roach, and Joe and his wife joined in; dancing to It Had to be You by Harry Connick, Jr.
"Christian and Ana, you are surrounded by family and friends who have long and happy marriages," the DJ announced. "All of us wish both of you a long and happy marriage." He started a round of applause which overtook everyone in the marquee.
When the applause died, he announced, "Everyone, this dance is for Ana to dance with all the men, starting with her father and stepfather, and for Christian to dance with all the women, starting with his mother and grandmother." The DJ played various Elvis Presley songs until everyone had a turn with either Christian or Ana.
XX
"Everyone, this is a singles dance only," the DJ played the B52's Love Shack. "Every single dances, partner or not."
Ana laughed when Ray went to the dance floor with Susan before José Senior could get to her, and Sawyer grabbed Samantha before Ryan could get to her. Elliott and Kate danced alongside Ethan and Mia.
At the very end of the song, the DJ spoke. "Ladies, please stay close. The bride is going to toss the bouquet." The DJ started playing the song Only Girl by Rihanna. Everyone left the dance floor except the single ladies. Ana looked around the room. "Okay, Prescott, Marshall, Gail…get up there. I'm not tossing the bouquet until every single woman in this room is standing up. I don't care if you don't want to scab for the bouquet or not. Stand on the perimeter of the group if you don't want to catch it." Despite refusals, Ana held on to the bouquet until the last single woman joined the fray. She pulled the lace ribbon and slipped the plastic holder portion of her bouquet off. "Ready," She called out. When everyone replied ready…Ana let the bouquet fly…tossing white roses everywhere. Frannie and Rachel laughed hysterically. Several single women scrambled to get at least one rose from the bouquet.
"That was fun!" Frannie confided in Carla.
'Yes, it's not traditional; like keeping your bouquet and preserving it. Kate could have arranged for a bouquet to throw. It seems but Ana's simple and classic wedding has a lot of nontraditional parts to it." Carla took generous sip of her champagne.
"Her bouquet was on life support anyway," Frannie giggled. "All cut flowers are on life support when you get them. Besides, Ana's just trying to spread the joy. She has Christian; she doesn't need a dried-up bouquet to remember this day."
When the ladies left the dance floor, the DJ put a chair in the middle and escorted Ana to take a seat. "Single gentlemen, gather around." He started playing the song, Got to Give It Up by Marvin Gaye. Christian knelt in front of Ana. "Are you ready?" he smirked.
"Oh so ready," she smiled.
Christian's hands slid under Ana's dress; caressing her from her ankle to her knee. He found the item he was seeking and pulled it from the garter. "Ready boys?" He called out, looking around. "Ray and Taylor, get up here." They did, but stood stoically to the side of the crowd. "Ready, set…" He let the white lacy granny panties fly. Men roared with laughter. Women blushed. Ana giggled. Carla sipped her champagne.
"Nice try!" Elliott yelled, stuffing the granny panties in his pocket. "We want the real thing!"
Christian's hands slipped under Ana's wedding dress again. His hands went all over, copping a feel here and there, and she swatted his hands, accompanied by laughter from the single men. He finally reached for the garter and gently removed it. He sighed when he had it in his hands. "Very pretty, Mrs. Grey; I'm sorry we don't get to keep it." He leaned forward and whispered in her ear, "I could restrain your hands with this." When she was blushing furiously, he stood to address the men. "Outside boys, we're going to need room to watch this one fly." Mia handed him the football and he arranged the garter around it. Everyone stepped out of the marquee and watched as Christian pulled the ball back to his shoulder in a typical quarterback pose. "It's going to be a long pass," he yelled. The guys took off running for the deep front lawn and Christian let the football fly. Elliott made a jump for it, and barely brushed the edge, sending it spiraling in a different direction. It landed right between Taylor and Ray who thought they picked the most out of the way spot they could. They stared at it and then at one another.
"Run!" Taylor yelled at the top of his lungs. He and Ray made a mad dash toward Christian as Barney went down on top of the ball, having been tackled into position by Elliott. Barney understood simple physics the rest of the men didn't. Just lay on the ball, both arms tucked around it and wait until a referee declares you the winner. The dogpile on Barney eventually let up when Carrick and Theo shouted at the men to quit squishing Barney. Elliott and Sawyer nodded at each other and disappeared.
Carla helped herself to another glass of champagne. There was no chance to get decent going away pictures now; the damn men had grass stains on their tuxes and suits.
XX
"Rockers and Rockettes," the DJ intoned, "please leave the dance floor so Mr. and Mrs. Christian Grey may have one last dance." He put on the song, I Cross My Heart by George Strait.
Christian kissed Ana gently before they began to dance. "I'm not supposed to have noticed," he winked. "Taylor warned me Elliott and Sawyer slipped away after the garter toss. He thinks they are decorating the SUV." He whispered a plan of action in Ana's ear and was rewarded with a giggle and a nod.
Susan and Samantha coordinated a large picnic basket for Christian and Ana and staff on the plane. Containers of food and appetizers were tucked in between two bottles of Bollinger and two bottles of Sancerre. They included generous sections of wedding cake in covered containers and handed it off to Taylor to transport to the plane. Gail coordinated the cake tier and topper to go to the house, servers circulated pouring coffee and clearing tables as much as possible. Kate coordinated the picture for the Seattle Times tomorrow with Sarah. She sent her article about the wedding to Grey House's PR team earlier in the week. It was approved and forwarded to Keaton Kavanagh. He would take a memory drive with the approved picture to the paper tonight, and thank his lucky stars Christian Grey wasn't embargoing Kavanagh Media's scoop this time.
Gail, Susan and Rachel coordinated everyone stepping outside to throw white rose petals at the bride and groom as they left on their honeymoon. Their parents stood at the end of the line near the driveway so they got the last kisses and hugs from their children.
Elliott and Sawyer decorated Christian's SUV with a Just Married banner, streamers, and white helium balloons. Christian and Ana had no clue, but the inside was stuffed with five very large boxes of white helium inflated balloons. It was difficult for one of the new security staff to drive it from the garage to the happy couple. The white decorations really stood out against the black SUV. Christian and Ana hugged, kissed, or shook hands with all the guests under a blizzard of white rose petals before posing for pictures in front of the decorated vehicle.
"I wish you had changed into a going away suit or something," Carla sighed. "What if your dress gets ruined before you return?"
"Christian didn't want me to change before we left. It won't get ruined. Gail tucked a spare space bag in my luggage to hold my dress and veil. Frannie is having it made into a set of baby clothes and baby blanket when I return from our honeymoon. We'll use them for the first formal pictures of Baby Grey," Ana explained. "Christian says we have to go, we have to be on the tarmac in one hour so the plane departs on schedule." She gave Carla a hasty kiss on the cheek. She gave Ray a hug. "I'll email both of you when I can." She turned to hug Grace. "Thank you for him," she whispered to Grace. "I love him so much, and I promise to take good care of him."
"We love you too, Ana," Grace hugged her tightly. Carrick joined in on the hug bringing Christian, Elliott, Mia, Frannie, Theo, Ben and Rachel with him.
Christian opened the door to the SUV and laughed when the balloons began spilling out, floating around the guests and then rising to the sky. Christian and Ana clasped hands and ran to a parked, undecorated vehicle driven by Prescott. Christian scooped up Ana and put her in the vehicle and jumped in after her. They took off down the driveway to shouts and cheers. Taylor, Sawyer, Ryan and Marshall followed behind in a second unmarked vehicle; loaded with luggage…leaving the decorated SUV where the paparazzi could not see it…and where Carla could mourn the unannounced getaway of her daughter, Mrs. Christian Grey.
A/N:
Thank you for the reviews and viewers; thank you for the messages and questions; thank you for the favorites and follows!
I do not own Fifty Shades Trilogy or the characters. They belong to E. L. James. My story is the interpretation of my thoughts about how the characters could have, should have, would have acted.