They drove back to the hotel and met everyone for lunch. Drew's parents and brother drove over too to meet Kayla's family. She felt nervous, just wanting things to go smoothly and not have any tension between their families. She was amazed at how sweet Angela had been to her, and was grateful that his folks had welcomed her into their family. When they got to the hotel, everyone was already in the meeting room and was talking. She saw her and Drew's mom talking and laughing and was glad to see that they were getting along. Andrew and her father were also talking like they were old friends. They said hello to everyone, and sat down to order as well.
She kissed her mom on the cheek and smiled "hi Mama. You been talking their ears off I see!"
Kayla told Stephie about how beautiful everything looked and reminded her that they had to be there early to get ready. She just smiled "I will be there with bells on, sweetie."
Angela told her that a lot of their family and friends were wanting to get them wedding presents, but she told them not to since they would have to get them back on the plane. "I told everyone just to either give you money or gift cards or let you get what you wanted when you got home, love."
"Thanks. That would be better, but they really don't have to get us anything. We have everything we need I think."
"I know, love, but they want to. Oh, and I called Reverend MacMillan and he is coming to the rehearsal dinner. He wants to meet you two before the ceremony, of course."
"That's great. I am looking forward to meeting him too. Drew told me he has known y'all for a long time."
"He has. He baptized Drew and John. He was more than happy to perform the ceremony for you. And your mum and I were talking, we would like to do your hair and everything if you will let us."
"Oh, yes, that would be great. Mama, did you bring Mamaw's veil?"
"I sure did, baby. It will look great with your dress. She always wanted you to have it. I can't wait to see your gown!"
"Me either!" Drew said with a laugh. "She won't even show me a picture!"
His mom smiled "it's bad luck, son! Plus, you need to be surprised."
"I know. I am just impatient. By the way, did dad get his mate to come play for us?"
"Yes. He will be there tomorrow."
"What are you talking about, Drew?"
"Oh, love, sorry I forgot to tell you. I didn't want to mention it until it was sure he could do it. One of dad's mates plays the pipes and will play for us at the church."
"Oh, Drew, that is so cool! That is a great idea!"
"I am glad you are excited about it. I figured you would be."
"Of course I am. Thank you."
After they talked for a while, before Kayla told them that she and Drew had some last minute shopping to do. They said their goodbyes, telling everyone they would see them that night at the rehearsal dinner. Drew drove them to Glasgow to the Braehead Shopping Centre and they set out to get their gifts for everyone. They didn't want more things to bring on the flight so they wanted to wait and shop in Scotland. Drew had already bought his gift for her, and she had found her gift for him.
Kayla decided to have baskets made for her in-laws-to-be and for Stephie. Drew picked out a professional poker set for his brother. She also read that it was tradition to have a blue garter, so she was planning on finding one. Drew just laughed that it at least matched his kilt. She sent him off on his own so she could go and look for some wedding night lingerie that he would like, so he went to look for gifts for her parents. She found La Senza and looked around, finding a white garter belt and blue garters. She was glad she already had her dress and shoes so she didn't have to look for those. She also picked out some white hose before she found the perfect babydoll. It was lace with a halter top and open front with embellishments on the cups and matching panties. She decided to pick out some white silk and lace Brazilian panties for the wedding as well, coming across some she liked better than the ones she had already bought.
Once she was done, she called Drew and he asked her to meet him in the sporting goods store because he was having a hard time finding a present for her father. When she made it to him, he looked frustrated. "Love, I have been walking around here like an idiot trying to find something for your dad."
"Well, I don't think my dad is that picky. He will like whatever you get for him."
"What is a good idea for him though? Does he like sports?"
"Um, well, you know he travels a lot with work; how about something like a travel kit?"
Drew's eyes lit up "Yes! Great idea. Let's get out of here and go find one."
"What did you pick out for Mama?"
"A jewelry box with Celtic knot work on the top. Do you think she will like it?" Drew asked worriedly.
"Of course she will, baby."
They finished their shopping and Drew carried the bags back out to the car. They went back to the hotel to set everything out and to get ready for the rehearsal that night. John had arranged for Drew to have a stag party after the dinner, and Drew was supposed to stay at his brother's apartment. He decided they would just take their clothes and get ready at the castle. Kayla had told Stephie she didn't want a bachelorette party, but she insisted on her having one. Kayla argued that there was no point and there were only a few of them that would be there. Kayla hid her lingerie from Drew, not wanting him to see it yet.
Later that night, the couple left for the castle and were met by their parents and Heath, Stephie and John and his girlfriend Jenny. Heath's parents were arriving late that night. They took their gifts and her dress and accessories to have them lock everything up for it to be ready. They met with Olivia and she walked them to the Circular Saloon. Andrew introduced Kayla and her family to the minister. "Mac, this is Kayla Morgan, Drew's fiancée. And these are her parents, Joe and Virginia and her friends Heath and Stephanie Miller." He reached to shake their hands "everyone, this is Reverend William MacMillan, an old friend of the family."
He smiled "I was so thrilled when Angie called and asked if I would marry you two. Congratulations. I would like to talk with you both after dinner though."
"Of course. We would like that."
They got into positions and walked through the ceremony. Olivia reminded them that during the wedding, someone would be there playing the harp and the candles would be lit. Afterwards, she led them all to the Ailsa Room where their table was already set. Once they were done eating, they handed out their gifts. Angela smiled "sweetheart, you didn't have to do all of this."
"It is tradition, plus we wanted to" Kayla answered. She asked Drew to hand them the gift basket she had made. It had wine and cheese, along with a board and cheese knife. "Thank you, love. It looks good" Andrew told them.
"And for my beautiful matron-of honor, who is like a sister to me, I got you this." She handed her a basket full of things to have her own spa day at home.
"Oh, Kay, I love it. Thank you."
Drew stood up and gave Joe his present. When he opened it, he smiled. "Perfect for a man who is always traveling. Thank you."
"And for you, Ginny." He handed her the box and she beamed when she saw it.
"It is beautiful sweetie. Thank you."
"And my little bro, my best man." John opened it and started laughing "oh hell yes! Now I can start my own casino in my apartment! Cheers, bro!"
"Now for my beautiful fiancée. You are the love of my life and the mother of my unborn child, and I hope many more. This is a Celtic knot that symbolizes motherhood. I would like for you to wear it." He took her hand and placed the ring on her right hand, then kissed her knuckles.
"Oh, Drew, I love it! It is lovely, thank you." She hugged him tightly and kissed him. She pulled back and wiped her eyes before she spoke.
"Well, Drew, I waited so long for you, and now it is hard to believe that we are here. I love you so very much and promise I will try and give you everything you always wanted. Now, you know how much I love your country, your culture, your heritage, and your kilt" she said with a wink "so I want you to wear these tomorrow."
She handed him a box and he nervously opened it, but when he saw what was in it, he chuckled. "I love them. I will definitely wear them all tomorrow."
"Well, bro, what did she get you?"
Drew turned them around for everyone to see. "Cufflinks and sgian dubh with the lion rampant and a Claymore sword kilt pin with the lion rampant as well. Thank you, lassie."
"You're welcome, baby. Glad you like them. I wanted them all to match!"
Her parents looked confused and Ginny asked if she could get a closer look. "Drew, baby, what is a lion rampant?"
"It is the ancient coat of arms of Scotland."
"Oh, I see. Very good then" she said with a smile.
"They are very nice, Kayla" Andrew said.
After they exchanged presents, they walked out to talk with the minister. "Well, I just wanted to have a word with you before the wedding. I know that you both have been married before and you are expecting a child. I just want to be certain that you are ready to enter into marriage and are committed to each other."
"Yes sir, we are. We both know we made a lot of mistakes with our first marriages, and realize how much work we need to put into this one. I love this woman so much, more than I have ever loved anyone. I am devoted to her and our baby. I will do whatever I have to do to make it work."
"I love Drew very much, and I am dedicated to him and our family. As he said, our first marriages didn't last, for different reasons, but we have both learned from them. I loved Drew for a long time from afar, and I would never do anything to hurt him."
"Very good. I just want to know that you are both willing to be faithful and true to each other and adhere to the vows you make tomorrow. I also want to be sure that your children will be brought up in faith."
"They will be. I go to church as much as I can. My grandfather was a rector so I was raised in church, and I know Drew was."
"Well I am happy to hear that. You have my complete support and will bless your marriage."
Drew smiled and shook his hand "thanks Mac."
"You're welcome, laddie. I have got to be part of most of the big moments in your life, and I am glad I can be part of this one as well. I will see you two tomorrow." He left and Drew put his arms around Kayla and kissed her. "I am a happy man, my love."
"I am happy too, baby. I am thankful that you are mine."
They joined everyone back in the dining room before they went their separate ways. Stephie told Kayla that she and Jenny were taking her out. Also her cousin Nikki who came and a couple of Drew's cousins were going to meet them. Her mom hugged her and told them to be careful. She kissed Heath on the cheek and told him with a laugh "you keep an eye on Drew. I don't want him looking half-dead tomorrow."
He laughed back "will do. Don't worry, baby girl. See you tomorrow. Have fun" he said with a wink.
Kayla leaned up and kissed Drew sweetly on the lips "you have fun tonight, baby. Y'all be careful."
"We will, love. Love you."
"Love you too."
Drew got into the car and drove off with Heath and John, and Andrew offered to drop Kayla's parents at the hotel. Kayla left with Jenny and Stephie for her hen party. When she got into the car, she told them "now look y'all, I can't drink and I am not playing DD while you two get tore up!"
"Oh hell, Kay, we aren't gonna go that wild" Stephie told her.
"Right. Just a couple of drinks and half-naked men!" Jenny agreed.
"What?! Strippers? You hired a man?"
"Well, hell yes! Listen, you didn't have a party the last time, and this will be the last time, so yeah, we hired you a stripping piper!"
"Oh. My. God. You. So. Did. Not!"
"Oh yeah we did! And he better be cute!" Stephie exclaimed. "And the best part, it was Heath's idea! He is paying for it!"
"He did what? I am gonna strangle him!"
"Lighten up, Kay. He wants you to have a good time. And I am sure Drew won't give a damn, as long as you aren't screwing the guy. Geez."
"I can't believe it. Heath, of all people."
"You will enjoy it, I promise. And we will too!"
Meanwhile, John was driving to the bar where the guys were meeting them. "I wonder what the girls are going to do tonight? Probably watch chick flicks and cry over their wine glasses, except Kayla with her sparkling cider."
Heath chuckled to himself and spoke low "uh, naw, they won't be doing that."
Drew stared at him "what do you mean?"
"Well, Drew, I kinda hired them a stripper."
Drew started laughing "you did? Kayla is going to go mental!"
"Why's that?"
"Because she hates male strippers! She said that when she went to that Ashley girl in accounting's party. She said it made her uncomfortable to have a naked man waving his tackle at her."
"Oh well. Already done now. She can kill me later."
They made it to the bar, and some of Drew's friends from college and his cousins were there, along with Stephen and Stu. He glanced over and saw Brett standing there as well. "What the fuck are you doing here, mate?"
"I had to come see you off, kid."
"You need to get the fuck out of here. I don't want to see your ugly mug again. I thought I made that clear when I busted your face up."
"Yeah, there is that, but I was just looking out for you. She has got her hooks in you even deeper than I thought since you are about to…."
Drew silenced him with a blow to the mouth. John and Stephen grabbed him and held him back. "I warned you, not to speak about her like that." He turned to his cousin Josh "did you tell him to come, mate?"
"No, I guess he just found out. We will take care of it, lad, just go on in." John grabbed Brett by the arm and dragged him to his car. "Just leave and stop making a horse's ass out of yourself."
Stephen walked Drew in and tried to calm him down. "Look, fella, let me buy yeh a drink. Don't worry about that asshole."
Drew took a deep breath and sat down at the bar. "Give me a scotch. A double."
Back at the hotel, the girls were all in Kayla's room awaiting the stripper's arrival. Kayla wasn't happy and they could tell. Nikki asked her "what is the matter?"
"Really? I don't want some strange man throwing his dick in my face Nik."
"Relax. Not going to be much different than what you work around every day: half naked men parading around in Speedos."
"Yeah, it is different because they ain't rubbing it against me. And if they tried, Drew would rip their heads off!"
"Oh give me a break. Being preggars has made you a prude." Kayla huffed and took a drink of her sparkling cider. She figured she was in for a long night. "And by the way, I am not a prude. That is how I got this way, in case you forgot how that works!"
Back at the bar, Drew was on his second round, still fuming. Stu sat by him and told him "forget that bugger. All of us couldn't be happier for you. We know how great Kayla is and how much she loves you. Piss it off, mate."
"You're right. This is supposed to be a party! Am I drinking alone? You all better get a drink too."
A few hours later, they were all drunk and were heading out. Drew was with John and going to his apartment. The girls' party had broken up as well, and they were picking their guys up. Drew asked Jenny "how is Kayla, love?"
"She's fine. She was about to take a bath and turn in for some beauty sleep when we left. I have a feeling that Heath will be getting an earful tomorrow, but I think she still had fun."
When they made it to his brother's, Drew called Kayla and she was just getting ready for bed. "Hi, baby."
"Hello, my love. I miss you already." Kayla could tell he was drunk because he was slurring his words.
"Awww, I miss you too. Did you have fun with the boys?"
"I did after I punched Brett in the mush."
"What? Oh God, please tell me he is not coming tomorrow!"
"No, no love, please don't be upset. He won't be there. Don't worry."
Kayla felt her chest tightening at the thought. Drew could tell she was worried and he wished he wouldn't have told her. She got very silent and he asked her "are you alright?"
"Um, yeah. Fine."
"Kayla, I promise he will not ruin our day. I swear it."
"Okay."
"Our day will be perfect. And at the end of it all, you will be my wife. That is what matters."
"I know. I just don't want anything to happen."
"It won't. I love you and I am going to let you go get some sleep. The next time I see you, you will be walking down that aisle to me. Goodnight, my beautiful bride."
"I love you very much Andrew. You get some sleep too."
She hung up and tried not to cry. She couldn't help but worry that something would go wrong. She called Heath and asked him to come down and talk to her. He was the only person who could seem to always make her feel better. He told Stephie he was going to see Kayla and stumbled down the hallway. When he came in, she could smell the booze on him. "Wow."
"I know, I know. But I am drunker than him, so I kept my word. What is the matter, baby?"
"What am I going to do if Brett shows up tomorrow? He could ruin our wedding."
Heath put his arm around her "I can't believe Drew told you about that. No one is going to ruin your day. Stu and Ste are going to be ushers and he won't get passed them. Don't you worry your pretty little head about that. If by some miracle he does, I will snap his neck before I let him stop your wedding. By the way, I am sorry about the stripper."
"Oh it's fine. It was actually kinda fun. He wasn't too obnoxious!"
"Oh good. I'm glad I am not in trouble."
"No, you're not. I can't stay mad at you anyway, never could" she said with a smile.
"Okay sweetheart, you need to pack and get some rest. Sleep well and don't worry." He put his arms around her and kissed her temple before heading back down the hallway. Kayla went ahead and packed her things up, knowing that she and Drew would be leaving from the castle and going to the airport. She said her prayers and crawled into bed. She sent Drew a text message telling him how much she loves him before falling asleep with thoughts of marrying the man of her dreams, soon to be a reality.