A/N-In my past stories I have always provided a detailed wedding, reception, and honeymoon. I am starting to stray from that so that I don't bore you, but this story will have the detailed reception. I thought it was important considering they didn't have a big wedding the first time they were married, and they don't have the conventional family so there are intimate thoughts that are shared in this update. If you don't want to read those feel free to skip this chapter.
While the wedding party was taking pictures the rest of the guests were taken to the reception area to relax, and enjoy some food while they were waiting on the wedding party. When they arrived, they were treated to an open bar and,
Hors d'oeuvre
- Swedish meatballs
- Rolled tenderloin with Hazelnut Béarnaise
- Bacon wrapped scallops
- Mini Reuben sandwiches
- Sautéed beef filet tips
- Roasted vegetable tart
- Chicken Quesadillas
- Mini Beef Fajitas
- Oyster Bar
- Sushi Bar
Once they finished their pictures Sarah's assistant escorted Olivia in the makeshift dressing room to change into her reception gown. Olivia had changed into a Reem Acra off shoulder re-embroidered laced up the back-wedding gown. When she walked out the room her husband was looking at her like she hung the moon.
She smiled, "Down boy. We have a reception to attend, and I intend to dance with my husband tonight."
Fitz smiled. He knew that the reception was really what she was looking forward to, because when they got married the first time they really didn't celebrate their union. He was just happy that his wife was happy.
"Liv, you really are a stunning bride. I thought the first gown was stunning, but this one fits you it was made for you."
Olivia blushed.
"Seeing you today makes me regret my hasty decision to marry you. You deserve today and more, and I am sorry that it took all this time for you to receive it."
Olivia caressed her husband's right cheek, "I don't regret a single moment Mr. Grant. I was happy and excited when I became Mrs. Grant. I got a chance to marry, and become one with my best friend. Then after all these years to have the wedding & reception of my dreams with my best friend and our children by our side has been everything. It can't get much better. You have given me everything I wanted and more Fitz. There is nothing to apologize for honey. Today was supposed to happen today."
"As long as you are happy. I never want to intentionally disappoint or hurt you."
"I'm not. Let's go celebrate
The couple were introduced. They had decided to get the dances out the way early so they could enjoy the rest of the reception.
Olivia had shared many dances with Fitz over the years, but being able to share this first dance with her husband in front of all their guests was something special. It validated everything they went through as individuals, as a couple, and as a family.
Oh oh
Um oh
La la la
Oh yeah
I never knew such a day could come
And I never knew such a love could be inside of one
And I never knew what my life was for
But now that you're here I know for sure
I never knew til I looked in your eyes (oh baby)
I was incomplete til the day you walked into my life (um, hm)
And I never knew that my heart could feel so precious and pure
One love so real, real
Fitz smiled as he looked at his wife. Sure, weddings didn't make a marriage, but now he understood the importance of them. To some a first dance as husband/wife is so cliché, but being able to dance around with the love of your life for everyone to see was pretty special.
Olivia looked up to see him smiling, "Why are you smiling so hard?"
"I am a man in love with an incredible woman, and that thought alone is extraordinary…"
Olivia had no words. She knew she was a lucky woman the first time around, but seven years and four children later to have a man still love her this hard and this strong was beyond words at times.
Can I just see you every morning when (every morning, babe)
I open my eyes
Can I just feel your heart beating beside me every night (every day)
Can we just feel this way together til the end of all time
(Can I just spend my life) Can I just spend my life with you (um, hm)
Now baby the days and the weeks and the years will roll by
But nothing will change the love inside of you and I
And baby I'll never find any words that could explain
Just how much my heart, my life, my soul you've changed
Can you run to these open arms when no one else understands
Can we tell God and the whole world I'm your woman and you're my man
Can you just feel how much I love you with one touch of my hand
Can I just spend my life with you
Olivia finally looked back up at her husband, "I know this might seem like an odd time, but I want to thank you for walking away from me when we were living in New York."
Fitz was unsure how to respond to her thanking him for their separation.
Olivia continued, "I didn't know how out of control I was, and if you hadn't taken a step back then we wouldn't have made it."
Fitz nodded, "Divorce was never an option…"
"I know baby. Which is why you did what you did. I know it was the toughest decision you ever had to make, but it was what I needed. That time apart I was able to heal, and we were able to come back stronger than ever."
"I just want you to be happy."
"I am baby. Nothing makes me happier than coming home to my family. I am honored and proud to be Mrs. Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III."
No touch has ever felt so wonderful (you are incredible)
Not a deeper love I've ever known (never let you go)
I swear this love is true (now and forever to you, to you, oh, oh)
Can I just see you every morning when I open my eyes
Can I just feel your heart beating beside me every night
Can we just feel this way together til the end of all time
Can I just spend my life with you
Can you run to these open arms when no one else understands
Can we tell God and the whole world
(You're my woman) and (you're my man)
Can you just feel how much I love you with one touch of my hand
Can I just spend my life with you
Can I just spend my life with you
Can I just spend my life with you (forever here with you)
Can I just spend my life with you
The couple looked at each other as the words to the song ended. Both nodding their head at each other. Silently agreeing to spend their life with one another.
Can I just see you every morning when I open my eyes
Oh oh
Now it was time for the daddy/daughter dance. It was decided beforehand by the girls that he would start with Addie because she was the youngest. The couple also thought the older two were doing out of respect for Addie being Fitz's only biological daughter. They would never admit to it so they decided not to talk to them about their suspicions.
Ohhhh, oh, oh, oh, ohhh.
It must have been cold there in my shadow,
To never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that's your way.
You always walked a step behind.
So I was the one with all the glory,
While you were the one with all the strength.
Addie was dancing around the floor with her dad. Since he was so tall she had taken her shoes off before the song started, and she was dancing on top of his feet. It was special to see the pair on the dance floor.
Fitz looked at his youngest daughter, "Know that daddy will always love you, and you can come to me for anything okay?"
"I will daddy. I love you very much."
Fitz walked her back to her seat, and Alaina came on the dance floor with him.
A beautiful face without a name for so long.
A beautiful smile to hide the pain.
Did you ever know that you're my hero,
And everything I would like to be?
I can fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.
It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
But I've got it all here in my heart.
I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it.
I would be nothing without you.
Did you ever know that you're my hero?
You're everything I wish I could be.
I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.
Fitz smiled at his middle daughter. Despite all the health issues she had that could have kept her down she kept fighting even before she was adopted.
"Daddy wants you to know that he is so proud of the young woman that you have become. You never quit."
"You and mommy taught me that…"
"No baby. You were a fighter before we came in the picture. We have just continued to nurse that fighting spirit, and I never want you to let it go no matter who you are with and where you are. If they love you they will love you just the way you are."
"Okay daddy. I love you."
"Love you more…"
Finally, he was dancing with his oldest. It had not been easy for her, and when she almost died he was so lost. When he looked at his children he couldn't differentiate biological from adoption when it came to his heart. They were all his babies.
Did I ever tell you you're my hero?
You're everything, everything I wish I could be.
Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings,
'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, the wind beneath my wings.
You, you, you, you are the wind beneath my wings.
Fitz looked at Nadia, "In a few years we may be doing this again except it will be at your wedding?"
"You have some time dad. Although I now believe that I am worthy of love, and hope to find a man as good as you I want to concentrate on tennis and school."
Fitz nodded, "I'll take all the time you are willing to give me."
Nadia laughed, "Dad, I love you so much. Thank you for loving me."
Fly, fly, fly away. You let me fly so high.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly high against the sky,
So high I almost touch the sky.
Thank you, thank you,
Thank God for you, the wind beneath my wings.
Fitz whispered, "Despite how hard you tried to make it to love you. You are easy to love, and this family is not complete without you. You will always be my eldest daughter. DNA be damned, and don't you ever forget that."
Olivia looked on with tears in her eyes as Fitz danced with each of their daughters. Each one of their faces lit up as they danced with their dad. You could see the few moments he spent with them dancing would be etched in their memory. Fitz made sure that she always knew that he loved her, and that the kids knew he loved them. They could come to him for anything, and while he might be disappointed in some of their decisions he would always be there for them.
Fitz had decided early on that he wanted to share a mother/son dance with his aunt. She was the reason that he and Olivia were together. She had become the surrogate mother they all wanted and needed, and tonight he wanted to share a moment on the dance floor with her just to say thanks.
He walked over to Karen, "Mom, may I have this dance?"
The kids were now with Olivia, and they watched the shocked look on Karen's face. Karen was under the impression there was only going to be the first dance and the father/daughter dance.
Karen got choked up, "We don't have to do this."
Fitz nodded, "I want to do this, and more importantly I think that mom would want us to do this."
Karen nodded as she was unable to formulate words.
[Celine Dion]
No mountain's too high for you to climb
All you have to do is have some climbing faith
No river's too wide for you to make it across
All you have to do is believe it when you pray
[R Kelly]
And then you will see the morning will come
and everyday will be bright as the sun
All of your fears cast them on me
I just want you to see
[Chorus: Celine Dion & R. Kelly]
I'll be your cloud up in the sky
I'll be your shoulder when you cry
I hear your voices when you call me
I am your Angel,
And when all hope is gone, I'm here
No matter how far you are, I'm near
It makes no difference who you are
I am your Angel, I'm your Angel
[R Kelly]
I saw your tear drops and I heard you cry
Both of them had tears in their eyes as they listened to the words of the song.
Karen smiled at Fitz, "You know she is your angel, right?"
"I do, and I know that she put you back in my life at the right time. You are my angel. You saved me not only a lot of heartache and pain, but you helped me realize that I needed to man up and be with the only woman who will ever have my heart."
All you need is time, seek me and you shall find
You have everything and you're still lonely
It don't have to be this way
Let me show you a better day
[Celine Dion]
And then you will see, the morning will come
And all of your days will be bright as the sun
So all of your fears just cast them on me
How can I make you see
[Chorus]
[R Kelly]
And when it's time to face the storm
[Celine Dion]
I'll be right by your side
"I was only doing what was right. It has been an honor and a privilege to be back in your life. You have given me more than I have ever given you.
"Olivia & I respectfully disagree, let's just call this one a draw."
[R Kelly]
Grace will keep us safe and warm
And I know we will survive
[Celine Dion]
And when it seems as if your end is drawing near (end is drawing near)
Don't you dare give up the fight
Just put your trust beyond the skies
The couple wanted their kids close during the reception so they had a table designated for the kids. Although a space was made for Grayson at the table he was now in his mother's lap enjoying the view. When Fitz walked over he opened his arms for his dad to take him which Fitz did after giving his wife a quick kiss.
The couple had a lavish dinner planned for their family and friends. Since they had to endure the long dances they knew they would be hungry so the staff brought out twin Portobello puffs and striped lobster ravioli for them to enjoy while the kitchen was getting the soup and salad ready to be served.
Each guest was served with soup & salad. They had decided on minestrone, and a tossed green garden mesculin with raspberry vinaigrette dressing.
For their entrée, the guests had a choice of:
-Seared Natural Salmon with red quinoa, asparagus, and roasted tomato vinaigrette
-Herbs de Provence chicken breast with au grain potatoes, mushrooms casserole and red vermouth
-Slow roasted angus prime rib with twice baked potato, carrots, asparagus, and creamy horseradish natural jus.
Olivia didn't want a stuffy wedding. She wanted to relax and party. She also had two teenage daughters so it was a no brainer that they had a D.J. to keep the party rocking after dinner.
Olivia's second gown allowed her to move freely. She had put Grayson back in his wheelbarrow at his insistence, and she had pulled him on the dance floor, and they were dancing around him.
Seeing them dance around the little boy who was shaking his body to the beat of the music was an image that none of them would soon forget.
After sometime the D.J. instructed the couple to head back to their sweetheart table for a surprise.
The couple got situated and they were surprised to see their kids making their way to the stage. Nadia takes the microphone first
For those of you who don't know who we are; we are the Grant clan. I am the oldest, then my sisters Alaina and Addie, and finally the little guy that refuses to leave his wheelbarrow is our brother Grayson (audience laughs). Sometimes I still must pinch myself when I say that my parents are Fitz & Olivia Grant. I had given up on ever being adopted, and if I was adopted I never imagined I would be blessed with such giving loving parents. Despite how powerful our parents are we are blessed to have a set of parents who decided that despite their demanding and powerful careers they would be hands on parents. Mom & dad have never missed anything of importance to me. More importantly whenever I need them they are there for me. Being able to lay my head in a safe & comfortable place is what I dreamed about for so long, and mom & dad gave me so much more. Thank you, mom, & dad for loving me even when I was difficult to love. I thank you for showing me what unconditional love is. Mom, thank you for showing me what a powerful woman looks like. For showing me that power is more than money and control. That without family power is nothing. Dad, thank you for wanting me. I know that initially you didn't know about me, but after mom told you about me you didn't think twice about taking me in. More importantly thank you for showing me how a man is supposed to treat a woman. Before you two came along I didn't believe in love, marriage, fairy tales, or soul mates. You have changed all my beliefs. I love you mom and dad so much, and on your wedding day I present to you matching Omega Constellation watches.
Alaina
Mommy & daddy I just want to start by saying thank you for giving me a home especially when you were in the process of starting your own family. I remember when I first met dad. I told my nurse how nice he was, and she told me to continue to say my prayers, and one day I might get a dad just like him. I said my prayers every night not knowing I would get the best mom & dad any child could ever ask for. Mommy, thank you for being okay with daddy wanting me. More importantly thank you for wanting my sister who until you, daddy, and Addie came along was the only person who loved me unconditionally. I didn't expect to live a good life, but you have never treated me differently than Addie. Although having access to the best health care out there has been great I understand now that I am older that the expectations you set for me allowed me to be Alaina. I don't think about not having my leg, or living with diabetes. When I go to bed at night I know it is okay for me to dream big. Your love and kindness shows me that there is nothing that I can't achieve if I put my mind to it. Daddy, thank you for always working out with me, and making sure that I stay healthy and strong. Mommy, thank you for all the fun projects we do together. We have so much fun on our mommy/daughter dates, and I love all the life lessons you have given me. On your wedding day, I present you with an anniversary wine box. I had your date engraved. There is a bottle for your 10th, 15th, and 25th anniversary. Nana chose the wine inside the boxes (Everyone laughs).
Addie
Mommy and daddy, I wanted to tell you that I love you very much. I am very glad that you and daddy decided to bring Nadia and Laina home. They are the best big sisters ever, and they do a lot for me. Daddy, we have so much fun outside and when we go on our playdates together. I also like that you hold me when I don't feel good. Mommy, I love when we build a pillow fort and watch Disney movies. It is so much fun, and when we bake cookies for my class. I am also happy that mommy and daddy let me help take care of Grayson. For your wedding, I got you a photo frame. Nana helped me. It has Mr. & Mrs. on it, and we used one of the pictures that you and daddy took when you decided to get married again.
The couple went on stage to collect their gifts. Both with tears in their eyes. This moment is one they would cherish for years to come.
The couple went to Nadia first. Olivia said, "From the moment I saw you in that group home I knew you were my daughter. When I left that day, I left a piece of my heart there with you. It was never hard for us to love you. We knew that with time you would catch up to all that the love that we had to offer. Your dad & I are so proud of the young woman that you have become. We will always be here for you."
Fitz nodded, "I agree with your mom. Thank you not only for the wedding gifts, but being our daughter. You bring me so much joy, and I look forward to seeing all the great things you are going to do in life."
The couple shared a long emotional embrace with their oldest daughter before turning to their middle daughter.
Fitz grabbed his daughter's hand, "I am grateful that God answered your prayers, and he said that I was a fit to be your dad. Your resilience is what drew me to you, and you have only grown stronger with time. No matter what know that I love you, and that I am proud of you."
Olivia kissed her forehead, "When I saw your dad with you I knew you were coming home with us. The bond between the two of you was unmistakable, and I am glad that you wanted us as much as we wanted you. I love you so much Alaina. I am proud of the young lady you are and the fact that you are more than the disabilities you have."
Alaina was unable to stop the tears from falling, and her parents consoled her. It was an emotional moment, but special nevertheless.
Finally, the couple made it to their youngest daughter. Their first born biologically. The perfect mix of both of them. Olivia briefly thought about how she could have lost her if Fitz had not worked so her to find her when she was kidnapped. All those thoughts combined made Olivia emotional.
Fitz decided to speak to give his wife a moment to compose herself.
Addie smiled at her parents. Fitz pulled her into his arm, "I was so happy when mommy told me she was expecting you, and when you were born we ended up bringing home you and your sisters. I am overjoyed with how close you are all, and I am proud that you are doing things that make you happy and giving back. Don't stop and know that daddy will always be there for you."
Olivia nodded, "You will always hold a special place in mommy's heart because you were the first baby I carried. I created you with daddy, and to see the special young lady you are melts my heart. Mommy wants you to always follow your heart. Do whatever it is that makes you happy as long as it doesn't hurt others, and know that your daddy and I will be there for you as a soft place to land. I love you so much buttercup."
Addie holding onto her mom now whispered, "Love you too mommy…"
The couple went over and planted kisses all over their son's face, and the giggles that came out of him melted everyone's heart.
Fitz wasn't that man that talked about having a son to carry on his name. Deep down Olivia believed that he was a little scared to have a son considering the relationship he had with his dad. Although Addie was their only biological daughter Nadia and Alaina had been around them long enough they had started to look like them as well. Fitz had his mini Olivia's. Despite her not being vocal she wanted a mini version of her husband, and Grayson was Fitz inside and out. Down to his calm demeanor. It didn't take much to make him happy.
They shared one last group hug as a family before it was time to continue the party. They went back to dancing for a while until it was announced it was time to cut the cake.
Their wedding cake was covered in silky white fondant. The four-tier cake features white cake layers with whipped cream filling, edible pearls, and calla lilies.
The couple lovingly fed it to each other. While neither of them spoke, it was clear how content and happy they were.
Olivia didn't realize how complete she would feel getting to marry Fitz. Having a ceremony solidified their relationship that they had won. Many had tried to tear them apart, but they were not successful. They had grown closer, and like a fine wine she knew their relationship would only get better with time.
They also decided to have a large dessert bar since they were all sweet lovers. The bar included:
-Peach Berry Torte
-Eclairs
-Carrot Cake
-Classic Italian Tiramisu
-Coffee Kahlua Cheesecake
-French Apple Tart
There also was an ice cream sundaes bar, chocolate bar, and a cookies bar.
Between the sweets, the alcohol, and the D.J. the couple as well as their guests were having the time of their lives.
The couple had hired a nanny for the evening. She had taken Grayson and Addie back to the hotel when they got sleepy.
It was getting late, and some of the guests were starting to head out.
Before more guests left Fitz wanted to give his wife the surprise that he had working on. Sarah, their wedding planner nodded that she had everything cued up and ready to go.
Fitz was handed a microphone.
Fitz looked at his wife, "Liv, I remember when we first met. I knew that you were something special. In truth for the longest I felt that I was out of your league. Sure, I was a Grant, and to most that meant I could rule the world if I wanted to. You were different. You were special. You never gave me anything. I had to earn it, and that included your friendship. Deep down I knew that I loved you. I knew I was in love with you, but I didn't think I could ever earn the right to be the one for you so I accepted that we would only be friends. When you admitted that you were in love with me deep down I was overjoyed, but I told myself that I wasn't good enough so I lied and said I didn't feel the same. As we grew apart I was miserable. My heart hurt. I have never been more thankful for my aunt who made me open my eyes. You made the ultimate sacrifice for me, and move to another country to allow me to follow my dreams. I appreciate you and the kids for allowing me to do something that I wanted to do, and that I enjoy. Now I believe it is my time to allow you to follow your dreams. I know that you all are itching to get back to the United States. While my wife has not directly shared anything with me I know that she has had several business offers in California. I also know that my oldest daughter would love to attend Stanford so she can continue to play tennis as well as she wants to be a doctor. I have no doubt the other kids would find something in California to their liking. I had my turn. I am ready for my family to have their turn, but especially my wife. She deserves to see her business continue to grow. Which is why I have purchased a home for us in California if you want it Liv."
Olivia was in shock. On the screen was a breathtaking home in California. The home had eight bedrooms and ten bathrooms. The home included a great room with a fireplace, family lounge with fireplace, a floating wine cellar, and pool.
Olivia looked over at the kids who were in shock as they looked at the pictures. She didn't know that Fitz had overheard her conversation with Nadia. She had received several offers to play college tennis, but her heart was set on Stanford. She had told him that she had received some offers to not only expand her business in California, but it would allow her to do more charitable work.
Olivia walked over to her husband, "How and what about you?"
Fitz smiled, "Remember that conference I had to attend in California?"
She nodded
"There really was no conference. I spoke with the Dean, and he made some calls for me. The Associate Dean at the law school is set to retire a couple of months after Nadia graduates high school. The Dean recommended me to take over the position. I went there to interview for the job, and I recently received word that if I want the job I can have it."
Olivia was in shock. Although they had talked about going back to the United States when Nadia went to college they had not sat down, and came up with a concrete plan. He had recently become a tenured professor and she didn't want to take anything away from him.
Olivia asked, 'What about mom? You know the kids have gotten really attached to their Nana."
He smiled, "Well I did confide in her what I wanted to do, and she supported me. The house also has a two bedroom, three bath 2400 square foot home which would be hers when she is not traveling or staying with John."
"Are you sure you are okay with this? You have worked so hard for the position you now have."
"I don't give a damn about a title. My family is most important. I can't be happy if my family is not happy, and while I understand that none of you are miserable it is time for us to think about the next stage of our lives."
Olivia leaned in and kissed him. When she pulled back she said, "I think the kids should be involved with this decision."
He nodded. They walked over the kids.
Olivia smiled as she looked at their shocked but nervous expressions. "Guys, what do you think about what daddy has done for us?"
Nadia said, "I think it would be very nice to have my family close to me, but since I won't be living at home I think that Lania and Addie should have the most input."
Olivia looked at the other girls.
Laina said, "I would love to live in California, and I would like to be close to Nadia."
Addie agreed.
Olivia turned and looked at her husband, "I guess that means we are moving to California."
A/N-I am going to end it there. Check out my Twitter account kimberl17711667 for pictures related to this story.
After much consideration, I have decided to wrap up several of my stories this summer including Bound Together which has just one more chapter left. Before you get nervous the plan is to start one or two new stories in the fall. Although I do have a troll that is enjoying harassing me I have decided to look past that since I have more positive than negative reviews. Once most of you get tired of me I will put the pen down.
