THE GREATEST DAY OF THEIR LIVES

Note: FYI, this chapter is a mountain compared to the other chapters I've written so far. I really hope you all enjoy this chapter as much as I enjoyed typing it. I'll admit the previous chapter wasn't the greatest, so hopefully this makes up for it.

Mission San Felipe

In her dressing room, Nadia Santos leans over in front of the mirror, putting the final touches on her makeup. As she does, Sydney Bristow is standing behind her, already dressed in her pink silk maid of honor dress and making the final adjustments on Nadia's wedding dress.

Nadia's dress is a glowing silk white mermaid wedding gown. It's strapless and tight to the top half of her body and down midway to her thighs, where it expands out and reaches all the way to the floor. She completes the look with white high heels, which will mostly be covered by the gown.

She chose the dress yesterday for a few reasons. She loved how it looked on her, as it really shows off her curves. She also liked how comfortable it felt. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, she knew Tom would love it.

Nadia has part of her hair wrapped up in a bun on the top of the back of her head. The rest of it flows long and straight down her back. Her long black hair reaches halfway down her back now, and she has some of her hair draped over her shoulders as well. Around her neck, we see the heart-shaped diamond pendant Tom bought for her a few days ago.

Nadia finishes brushing out her eyelashes and sets her brush on the table in front of her. Looking in the mirror, she looks at Sydney behind her and impatiently asks "Are you done back there?" Sydney, playfully irritated, says "Almost! There's a lot of buttons!"

After a few seconds, Sydney hooks up the last button and says "Ok, got it!" Nadia stands up straight and admires herself in the mirror for a few seconds, taking looks at herself from every angle. She then takes a relieved deep breath, happy over what she's seeing. She looks good and she knows it.

She then turns to Sydney and somewhat nervously asks "So, what do you think?" Sydney grins as she reaches over to a table and says "It's not finished yet!"

Sydney grabs a silver tiara with a white transparent veil attached to it on the back. She then reaches up and sets the tiara and veil on top of Nadia's head in front of the bun and adjusts it so it looks good. The veil goes about the length of her hair down her back.

Nadia turns back to the mirror and examines herself again. She looks very happy, if not a bit emotional as she looks at herself in the mirror. She's amazed that she turned out this good on her wedding day.

Sydney smiles and, as shes look at Nadia in the mirror, says "You look gorgeous!" Nadia lets out a quick, nervous breath and nervously says "Sydney...I can't believe this is happening! I'm actually getting married!"

Nadia turns and gives Sydney a hug. As they hug, Nadia says "Thank you so much for helping me pick out my dress yesterday!" Sydney replies "We did a good job. You're going to raise some eyebrows out there, including the two that matter!"

Nadia releases the hug and questioningly asks "You think Tom will be impressed?" Sydney reassuringly smiles and says "I guarantee it! In fact, I can already see the look on his face when you start walking down the aisle!"

Nadia cracks a somewhat nervous smile, then walks over and sits on the couch. She takes a deep breath, trying to compose her nerves a little bit. Sydney joins her on the couch and says "Hey, don't be nervous. The hard part is already over. You have the dress, it's on, and all that's left is the formalities. You're going to do great out there." Nadia takes a deep, nervous breath and says "I hope I do. I'd hate to embarrass myself in front of Tom and our friends!"

Nadia then turns and looks over at Sydney. "Sydney, I never thanked you for finding me in Chechnya, and for a year later, when you found me in Argentina and brought me into APO." Sydney looks at her a little funny and says "Why are you thinking about all of that now?"

Nadia replies "Because I realize if you hadn't done those things, my life would be so different. I wouldn't be sitting here, talking to my very own sister, about to get married to a man who loves me more than anything in the world, and carrying my son or daughter in my stomach!" Nadia sniffles a bit, causing Sydney to say "Hey, you can't start crying now, you'll have to re-do your makeup!"

Nadia takes a deep breath to compose herself, then says "I remember Tom telling me about a year ago how he had this dream of us living in San Felipe with no fears of any prophecies or any worries over impending doom...just a quiet and peaceful life to look forward to. He wanted to protect me and avoid anything like what happened in Sovogda happening to us. Maybe I should have listened..." Sydney puts her arm around Nadia to try to comfort her and says "I don't think he could have have envisioned what would happen. Plus, I know you still believed in your father and wanted to stay..."

Nadia looks at Sydney quickly with a look of disappointment and mild anger and says "And that was another foolish idea. My father is going to he here, Syd. At one point in my life, I would have been overjoyed to see him at my wedding. But now...seeing him will make me sick." Sydney shakes her head and says "Don't even think about Sloane today. This is your and Tom's day. The only thing that matters is what's going on on that alter."

Nadia nods and says "You're right." Nadia cracks a smile and looks back over at Sydney and says "I can't wait until our roles are reversed and you and Vaughn get married! I can't wait to be your maid of honor!" Sydney laughs and says "Well, we still might be a ways off from that day ever happening."

Nadia asks "Why? Just get it done!" Sydney looks down and says "There's a lot going on at work...and even though Vaughn is back, he's still at risk himself."

Sydney looks back up at Nadia and, with a smile, says "We're going to do what you and Tom are doing. We're going to wait for our problems to be behind us." Nadia smiles and says "That's probably a good idea!"

Nadia looks back down at her dress and contritely asks "With all I've done in life, do you think I deserve to wear white?" Sydney asks "Why would you ask that? Of course you do!"

Nadia looks back at Sydney and says "There's a lot that you and Tom don't know about me. I did a lot of awful things when I was a teenager, trying to survive on the streets of Buenos Aires with Cesar Martinez. I had over 130 criminal charges against me at one point...assault, burglary, you name it...and there was so much more I did that wasn't ever counted on my record. I was so different back then. I didn't even know who I was. But when Tom revealed what he did after his friend died, I asked myself who was I to judge him? I did bad things for survival, he did bad things to avenge a friend, and we both have done bad things for our jobs. I guess we both had valid reasons for our actions. I'd like to think we're both good judges of character. He wouldn't be with me if he thought I was rotten, and I wouldn't be with him if I thought he was rotten himself."

Sydney realizes something and, wanting to lighten the mood back up, asks "Speaking of your past, didn't you tell me you had a lip ring during your teen years?" Nadia, trying to hide her shame over that, says "Yeah, I thought it was cool..."

Sydney shakes her head and laughs. "I still can't imagine you with one! It just seems so out of character!" Nadia dismissively shrugs and replies "Like I said, I was a different woman back then."

Sydney then asks "Oh, do you have your vows written down? I'd like to read them if that's alright." Nadia shakes her head. "I don't have anything written down. I think it'll be better if I spoke from the heart when I'm up there."

Sydney raises her eyebrows and says "You're just going to wing it? Wow, aren't you courageous!" Nadia giggles a bit and says "I know how it's going to go! Trust me! I've given it a lot of thought and I'm not going to screw it up!"

Sydney giggles herself and says "I sure hope so!" Nadia then looks over at the door and says "I wonder what Tom's thinking right now..."

Over in his dressing room, Tom Falk stands in front of a mirror and fidgets with his black shawl tuxedo. Underneath the tux is a white shirt with a silver tie. Tom reaches with his hand to adjust his white calla lily boutonniere on his left chest.

In addition, Tom is also wearing black slacks and shined leather shoes. He's looking very formal and traditional for the wedding. He even looks handsome, although he'd probably never admit it.

From behind, his best man Mike Walcott stands up and says "Would you quit futzing with your tux already? You look fine!" Tom turns to him and worriedly asks "You sure?"

Mike then notices Tom's tie is a little off-center and walks up and adjusts it a bit. Then, he steps back and says "There, now you look good." Tom shrugs and says "As good as I'll ever be, I guess."

Tom eyes down Mike and says "You look good yourself." Mike smirks and says "Hey, I'm your best man! The last thing I want to do is piss off a groom with a titanium bone right fist on his wedding day!"

Tom laughs and says "Hey, I could hit pretty hard before Project Alloy!" Mike laughs back and says "Thank goodness I never tested you on that!"

Tom pats Mike on the shoulder, then walks over and sits on the couch and takes a deep breath to compose himself, much like Nadia just did in her dressing room. Mike notices he looks nervous and sits down next to him. He says "Relax, you're going to be fine out there."

Tom nods and says "I'm sure I will. I just don't want to do anything stupid out there and break Nadia's heart." Mike shakes his head and says "You won't. If you go into a mission...or in this case, a wedding, thinking you could fail...you just might. So, just be yourself and you'll be fine."

Tom rubs his palms in an another attempt to calm his nerves a bit. "Mike, I don't recall being this nervous before my wedding with Kate nine years ago." Mike pats Tom on the back and says "I know how you feel about Nadia. She has you whipped in a way Kate never did!"

Tom shakes his head as he laughs and says "I guess Nadia does have me whipped, doesn't she?" Mike smirks and says "Somehow, I don't think you mind that all that much."

Tom nods and says "Right, I don't. I loved Kate and all, but not like I love Nadia. I truly do cherish Nadia. When she learned I was in prison, she had the perfect opportunity to walk away. When she learned about what I did after our friend Matt Aguero died, she could have walked away then, too. But what did she do? She stuck with me. And not only did she stick with me, but she helped you and David get me out of prison..." Mike cuts him off and says "Helped? She was the ringleader in all of that, we were just along for the ride!"

Tom says "And that's my point. Nadia not only wanted me still in her life, she FOUGHT to have me in her life. You don't know what that means to me, Mike. What do you think Kate would have done were she in Nadia's shoes?" Mike sarcastically chuckles and says "She probably would have called you a piece of shit and left."

Tom looks at him funny and says "You think she would have just left it at 'piece of shit'?" Mike shakes his head and says "I was being nice. She would have tore you a new one and wanted nothing to do with you."

Tom nods and says "That sounds more like it." Tom then takes a deep breath and says "I feel like we're back at Matt Aguero's wedding 11 years ago. You remember that day?" Mike nods and says "I'll never forget it. Matt was just as nervous as you that day."

Tom looks down and says "I remember when Matt told me that his wife was his salvation. That she made him a better man and he felt born again. Well, Kate never really gave me that feeling, but Nadia does. Nadia is my salvation for all of the awful crap I've done in my life. She's the reason that I'm about to start the next chapter in my life. I'll be living the life I dreamed of: a peaceful life with the woman I love and not having to worry about us or our children being able to survive. And not only is Nadia taking my last name, she's also going to give me a child here in a few months. What did I do to deserve all of this?" Mike cracks a small smile and says "Love her. Plain and simple."

Tom shakes his head and says "Is that all? I mean...don't you ever stop and ask yourself how someone could even like you? I know I can be abrasive and I know I can spout off at the mouth and be my own worst enemy at times..." Mike cuts him off and says "You just said it right there."

Tom looks at him and asks "What?" Mike replies "You're your own worst enemy, no one else else is. You can influence how people think about you, but in the end, other people's feelings are their own. But think about why Nadia would like you...look at what you have done for her since you two got back together. I mean, I can't imagine myself rushing down to Argentina and dealing with a gang leader just to get a soccer program for a woman...and you're probably the only person on earth that would have gone that length for Nadia. Trust me, she realizes you care deeply about her, and with her background, that means a ton."

Mike then turns and looks down at the floor and says "But hey, what do I know? I can't hold a relationship to save my life..." Tom gives him a comforting smile and pats him on the back. "I know you'll find someone one day. And I appreciate your support as always. You were absolutely right just now."

Mike looks back at Tom and says "And I appreciate your support as well. We've been friends for 14 years and I'm glad you consider me your best man...now, just hold on to this one, ok? I'm not much for getting dressed all formally..." Tom laughs and says "Nadia's the one. I know that for a fact. We won't be doing this again!"

Suddenly, the door knocks to their dressing room. Tom shouts "Come in!" The door opens and David Marston, Tom's other Storm Crew friend, walks in and says "Hey, I think they're about ready to go out there."

Tom looks at David a little funny, then back at Mike. "Mike, that was you at Matt's wedding 11 years ago." Mike cracks a smile at that as David asks "What are you talking about?"

Tom looks over at David and says "I was the best man for a friend's wedding 11 years ago and Mike walked in and said exactly what you just said verbatim." David asks "Whose wedding was it? Anyone I'd know?"

Tom looks at Mike, then back at David. "I'll tell you the story of Matt Aguero another time. Now, who here could use a drink before the ceremony?" Mike stands up and asks "Who do you think you're talking to?" David walks over and says "I guess I'll take one, even though I'm still a little hungover from last night..."

As Tom grabs a bottle of tequila and three shot glasses from a table next to the couch, Mike tells David "I've never seen you so hammered before! What got into you, man?" David replies "Tequila is what got into me! I've never drank tequila that went down so easy!"

As Tom pours the shot glasses, he says "Well, this stuff is local, but it's pretty good, too." Tom hands Mike and David their glasses, then grabs his own and holds it up. Mike and David follow by holding up their glasses.

Tom says "Here's to being able to share the greatest day of my life with two of the greatest friends a man could have." David smiles and says "Here's to great wives." Mike smiles wide and says "And just like I said 11 years ago at Matt's wedding, here's to staying single!"

The three share a laugh over that and touch glasses. As they do, Mike and David say "Strength and honor." Tom smiles wide and says "Amigos hasta el final. (Friends until the end.)"

David looks at Tom a little surprised while Mike smiles wide and says "Yeah, amigos hasta el final." David asks "Where did that come from?" Tom replies "'Amigos hasta el final' was our 'strength and honor' when Matt Aguero was alive."

David asks "What happened to..." Mike cuts him off quickly. "Another time. Now, this man has to get married!"

The three gulp down their shots and walk out of the dressing room together.

Out in the small, Mexican-style chapel, everyone else has gathered and is standing and waiting patiently for the ceremony to start. It's a hot day outside, but the fans and air conditioning are cranked up and everyone seems comfortable.

On the bride's side to the left, we see Jack Bristow, Marshall Flinkmann, and Michael Vaughn, with Isabelle in her rocker seat next to him, nodding in and out of sleep. To the right side, we see David Marston walk back down the aisle and stand next to his wife Lisa, a short, brown haired woman with a bubbly expression. To her right is Karen Falk, an average woman in her early 40's with shoulder length curly hair. She also looks a little anxious for the ceremony to start.

Oh, and in the far back corner on the bride's side is Arvin Sloane, who just sits there quietly and looks like he's patiently awaiting for the ceremony to start. No one appears to be paying him any attention.

At the altar, we see the minister step up and turn out and face the crowd. The Hispanic man is dressed in a typical preacher's robe with a large cross necklace. To his back left and back right, we see floral arrangements that Marcus Dixon and Eduardo Munoz, Tom's attorney and former Anti-Cartel director, have sent.

Meanwhile, back near the front door of the chapel, Tom stands next to Mike, still looking very nervous as he looks down the aisle ahead of him.

To his left, a door opens and Sydney steps out quickly and closes the door just as fast, that way Tom doesn't peek in at Nadia and cause bad luck by seeing the bride before the ceremony.

Sydney gives Tom a wide smile and says "Hey, you look great!" Tom nervously smiles back and says "So do you! How does Nadia look?"

Sydney giggles a bit and says "You'll know in a minute or two!" Tom rolls his eyes and says "I know...that's why I'm so nervous. Imagining Nadia walking down the aisle was one of the things that kept me positive for 11 months in prison. I'm anxious to see how she'll look."

Mike then says "She'll look fine...and you'll be fine, too." Mike holds out his arm and asks Sydney "Shall we?" Sydney grins as she hooks her arm around Mike's and says "We shall!"

Mike and Sydney then walk off to walk down the aisle together, leaving Tom still a little nervous. He hears the small crowd give the best man and maid of honor a small round of applause.

Tom sees Mike and Sydney assume their positions next to the minister. Tom gives Nadia's dressing room door one final look, then starts walking when he hears the organ player start to play his intro music.

Tom takes a large deep breath and starts forward.

He walks at a somewhat quicker-than-normal pace down the aisle as he gets a friendly round of applause from the small group gathered. Tom looks over to the left at the bride's side and smiles at Jack, Marshall, and Vaughn. He looks right and does the same for David, Lisa, and Karen on his side. Tom hasn't noticed Sloane...yet.

Tom gets up to the altar and shakes the minister's hand, hugs Sydney, then takes his position to the right, where Mike is awaiting with a handshake and a pat on the back.

Tom turns back out to the crowd and immediately spots Sloane in the back right corner. They exchange blank glares for about a second, then Tom turns away and looks back out towards the entrance of the church. He's not allowing Sloane into his head...not today.

Tom puts his hands in his pant pockets. Mike notices and whispers "Hey, get your hand out of your pockets!" Tom looks over at him quickly, then back out down the aisle and folds his hands at his waist. Mike whispers "That's better." Tom whispers "Thanks!"

At that point, the organ player starts to play "Here Comes The Bride." Tom closes his eyes and takes another deep breath, and then opens his eyes again. He mumbles in disbelief "This is actually going to happen..."

After a couple seconds, he finally sees Nadia approach the entryway to the chapel. Once she clears the entrance to the chapel area, his eyebrows shoot up and his jaw goes agape at her beauty. Then, realizing he's probably being improper by having a wide-open mouth, forms a quick closed smile to compensate.

Nadia locks eyes with Tom and giggles a little bit at Tom's reaction. She slowly makes her way down the aisle, holding a bouquet of flowers in her hands and looking perfectly radiant and glowing out of happiness and beauty.

The rest of the crowd also looks at her in awe. Lisa whispers to David "Oh my god, she's beautiful!" Karen hears and says "No kidding!" Marshall looks awestruck and mumbles "Wow..." Sloane, meanwhile, looks on admiringly at his daughter and even has a smile on his face.

Nadia finally reaches the altar and hands Sydney her bouquet of flowers, then turns and faces Tom, who looks like he's in a trance over her stunning beauty. Nadia holds out her hands and Tom gently grabs them. As he does, he whispers "You...look absolutely amazing..." Nadia grins and whispers back "You're looking pretty good yourself!"

The minister clears his throat and, in English, says "Everyone, please be seated." The crowd sits and the organ stops playing.

And at that moment, Tom and Nadia finally relax. It's just them and the minister now.

As Nadia and Tom continue to look at each other with looks of admiration, the minister starts off. "Today, we are gathered here to witness the union of Thomas Loren Falk and Nadia Anabella Santos. In addition to the crowd visibly present, I'd also like to welcome Tom's parents, Thomas Charles Falk and Mary Landry Falk, who are also here in spirit." Tom and Nadia both exchange smiles at the mention of Mary's name.

The minister pauses for a second, then continues. "Thomas...Nadia...this union completes a long path for you two. Based on the journey each of you have taken, I could preach about the importance of love and commitment, but quite frankly, you two seem to have that pretty well handled." Tom and Nadia both laugh a bit, as does the rest of the crowd...except for Sloane. The minister continues. "However, it is important that we remember what led you to each other, and that you continue to be the very people that got you to this point...the very people everyone gathered here today knows."

The minister then looks out to the crowd. "Does anyone have any kind words about these two they would like to share?" Marshall timidly raises his hand and stands up. Tom and Nadia look at him a little surprised that he would speak up.

Marshall clears his throat and says "Well, I'm not very good at these things...but I feel that it should be said that, uh, I accompanied Tom a few times when Nadia was in the hospital and, while Tom wasn't usually in the most conversational moods...and that might have been a good thing actually, considering I'm not exactly the smoothest conversation...he would always talk about how Nadia filled this hole in his heart...and how he had hoped this day would come. So, um, I guess I just wanted to say that I'm happy this day has come for you two and...well, I guess that's it!"

Marshall then nervously sits down. Tom mouths "Thank you" to him. Marshall just gives him a timid wave, then looks down a little embarrassed. Michael gives Marshall a pat on the back to relieve his tension a bit.

Next up is Jack, another small surprise. Jack says "One of my first memories of Tom was when I was recruiting him from Langley. He told me the story of how he met Nadia and how she saved him from a bad predicament. When I was informed of the wedding date, I remembered what Tom said after he was done telling his story at Langley. His exact words were 'I respect her very much and I still owe her a life debt.' Even though Tom and Nadia are no longer agents, I am pleased that Tom will be able to pay back that life debt by being Nadia's husband. And I'm happy for you, Nadia, that you're going to be able to live a long and happy life with this man. Congratulations...to the both of you."

Jack then takes a seat as the rest of the crowd, sans Sloane, gives him a small round of applause.

Next up is David, who takes a nervous breath and says "I wasn't there in Argentina, when Tom met Nadia. But, I saw the effect that Nadia had on him, long after the mission. Nadia, he always spoke very highly of you, like he was talking about his best friend. Anyone that knows me knows what I think about the man Tom Falk is. When I was facing a 20 year prison sentence for hacking the FBI mainframe, he didn't see me as a criminal. He saw through that and saw a man that just wanted to provide for my son in the only way he knew how." David then lowers his head and wipes some tears away. He sniffles a bit, then says "When he offered me the job as the op-tech specialist for Storm Crew and got my charges dropped, he ensured that I could see my son grow up. And he didn't stop there." David then looks down at Lisa. "When I was too afraid to ask Lisa out on a date, it was Tom that set us up on a blind date to get the ball rolling."

Nadia looks back at Tom and whispers "Did you really do that?" Tom looks back at her and nods. "Yeah, I did." Nadia smiles and whispers "That was sweet of you!" Tom shrugs slightly and says "I'm just glad it worked..."

David, still a little emotional, then says "I owe where I am in life today to you, Tom. And I'm glad that you're going to marry Nadia today. You two deserve each other, and I mean that in the best way possible. I'm so happy for you both." David then sits down and leans his head down to try to hide his tears. Lisa puts her arm around him to console him. Tom cracks a touched smile at David's speech as the rest of the crowd gives him a round of applause.

And finally, Tom's sister Karen stands up. She takes a deep breath and says "Me and Tom have been pretty close for most of our lives, even when he moved away to Los Angeles to join the CIA! But, for almost two years, from 2003 to 2005, me and my baby brother didn't speak to each other. We had a bit of a falling out over our father's death and, as it turns out, we were both afraid to talk to each other because we were both expecting nothing but a shouting match. After all, we're Falks, and we tend to get a little animated!"

The rest of the crowd, minus Sloane of course, chuckles a bit. Nadia giggles at Tom as he hangs his head and laughs and shakes his head.

Karen, smiling wide, continues. "See, he knows! But do you know who ended up breaking the ice between us?" Karen points at Nadia. "It was Nadia. When I called his apartment one day, Nadia picked up the phone. We had a nice chat about where they were in their lives and how she had just moved in with him. And as I heard her talk, I understood why Tom liked her so much. She sounded pleasant...kind...but more importantly, genuine. Also, honey, I would give anything to have your accent! It's much prettier than my my country accent, let me tell you!" Nadia laughs at that.

Karen laughs herself, then continues. "Anyway, Nadia convinced my baby brother to call me. And when he did, it was like we never had stopped talking to each other!" Karen then looks down a bit, then back up. "I know Tom was afraid to call me while he was in prison. But, when he did...instead of feeling remorse over what he did, he had more remorse over the fact that Nadia wasn't in his life because of her ailment she dealt with for nearly a year." Karen turns and gives Sloane a bit of a menacing glare, knowing he was the cause of it. Sloane just stares back at her blankly. Karen then turns and continues. "Nadia, honey, there wasn't a conversation where he wouldn't talk about how much he missed you. And when Tom called me out of the blue and explained that not only were you revived, but you also helped him get out of prison...well, I knew you were something special. Unlike Tom's ex, who...well, I won't say anything vulgar in a house of God...but unlike his ex, I'd be so honored to call you my sister-in-law. I'm so happy that my baby brother has found his true love!" Karen sniffles a bit, then says "Ok, I'm getting a little emotional, I better stop now! Just...congratulations! I'm so happy for you both!" Karen sits down and the rest of the crowd, minus Sloane, gives her a round of applause. Tom and Nadia clap as well, with Nadia smiling wide and mouthing "Thank you" to Karen.

The minister says "Thank you, everyone. And now, Thomas and Nadia, it is time to confirm your desires to be married."

The minister looks at Nadia. "Nadia Santos, do you take Thomas Falk to be your husband, companion, and friend? Do you promise to love him, honor him, and cherish him, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?"

Nadia confidently replies "I do." Tom lets out a sigh of relief, which Nadia lightly giggles at a bit.

The minister then turns to Tom. "Thomas Falk, do you take Nadia Santos to be your wife, companion, and friend? Do you promise to love her, honor her, and cherish her, in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?"

Tom nods slowly as he looks deeply into Nadia's eyes and says "I do." Nadia smiles wide and mouths "Thank you" to him. Tom smirks and mouths back "You're welcome."

At this point, the minister asks the crowd "If there is anyone that wishes that these two should not be wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace."

As he finishes saying that, Tom slowly turns his head and eyes down Arvin Sloane. Tom gives Sloane a death stare, almost daring Sloane to say something.

Meanwhile, Sloane glares back at him with an angry and somewhat offended look. By now, the crowd has noticed their staredown and has turned to look at Sloane, now patiently awaiting his reaction, too. Sloane then looks around and sees everyone looking at him curiously. Nadia looks on with a look of concern while Tom continues his look of menace. Sloane starts to feel a little uncomfortable being the center of attention here.

Sloane looks at Nadia for a little bit. He knows his daughter is about to get married to a man who hates him more than anything in this world. Sloane also knows that, if Tom hadn't promised to let Sloane live if he found a cure for Nadia, Tom would probably make good on his desire to turn Sloane into unidentifiable thick brown sludge like he said he'd like to do a couple days ago.

Internally, as Sloane looks at his daughter, he feels her slipping away from him. Nadia has clearly chosen Tom over him as the man in her life to lean on.

Sloane then turns back to Tom and stands up slowly. The rest of the crowd looks a little nervous at what Sloane might do. Everyone knows about the rift between Tom and Sloane and no one would put it beneath Sloane to put the death knell on an otherwise wonderful wedding.

Tom forms a scowl on his face. "He's really going to say something, the jackass" he thinks to himself. Nadia, meanwhile, forms a look of fear on her face, afraid that her father is going to ruin the wedding.

You could cut the tension with a knife in the chapel as Tom and Sloane stare each other down for a little bit.

Finally, Sloane, still eyeing down Tom, utters three words in about as defeated of a tone as you can get: "She's all yours."

And then suddenly, Sloane quickly walks around the back of the pew and out of the chapel area.

Sloane walks through the lobby and angrily shoves the front doors open, forcing them to go flying open quickly. As he walks through the doors, they come back and slam shut, causing some audience members to jump a little bit.

Unbeknownst to anyone in the chapel, Sloane walks to his car and leans up on it for a bit. He fights the tears for a while, but he succumbs to them after a few seconds. Finally, he just lets the waterworks flow. While this was a day of happiness for everyone else in the chapel, it might as well have been Nadia's funeral to him. She was now out of his life, and there's no turning back now.

She's gone. And this fact is destroying him.

Finally, Sloane reaches into his coat pocket and, with his hands trembling, grabs his keys, gets in his car, and drives off out of the parking lot quickly.

Meanwhile, back in the chapel, a somewhat uncomfortable pall has been cast over the crowd. Tom notices and sighs. He then looks back at Nadia to gauge her reaction. Nadia still looks out at the front doors, recollecting her father storming out.

And then, she takes a relieved sigh of relief and turns back to Tom. Seeing Tom's concern, she cracks a small smile and mouths "I'm ok." Tom gives her a small headnod and cracks a small smile...and then a wide one when he realizes the magnitude of what just happened. Now, he actually wants to do a happy dance, seeing as Sloane was now out of their lives for good, but realizes this is obviously neither the time nor place.

The minster then cracks a smile and, trying to get the ceremony back on track, asks "At this point, you may make your wedding vows. Before we begin, do you have the rings?"

At this point, Vaughn stands up from the front row and leans over Isabelle, who's dressed in a little wedding dress herself. Tom and Nadia see Vaughn doing something with Isabelle's hands before picking her up.

Vaughn then walks up to Tom and holds Isabelle out in front of them. Tom and Nadia look at Isabelle's hands and sees a ring on each hand around a couple of fingers.

Karen and Lisa let out an audible "Aww!" as Tom and Nadia grab their respective rings from Isabelle's fingers. With a wide smile, Tom then breaks tradition by saying to the crowd "How about a round of applause for our little ring-bearer: Isabelle Vaughn!" Sydney laughs and starts clapping along with the rest of the crowd. Isabelle just has a blank expression on her face, not comprehending that they're clapping for her. Vaughn smiles wide and takes Isabelle back to her rocker.

After the applause stops, the minister says "Ok, Nadia, you may begin."

Nadia looks back over at Tom and says "Tom, I take you to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever. I will trust you and honor you, I will laugh with you and cry with you. I will love you faithfully, through the best and the worst, through the difficult and the easy, like I always have. For whatever may come, I will always be there, as you've been there for me. As I have given you my hand to hold, I also give you my life to keep. I love you, Tom, and I will never stop loving you. This ring will symbolize that undying love for you and serve as a promise to keep on loving you as much as you love me!"

Nadia then gently grabs Tom's left hand and slides his wedding ring on his ring finger, then they go back to holding hands and looking at each other. Tom notices Nadia has shed a couple tears. He reaches over and gently wipes them away. Nadia whispers "Thank you". Tom whispers "No, thank you."

The minister says "Ok, Thomas, you may give your vows."

Tom looks at the minister, and then back at Nadia. "Nadia, as we get married here today, I want to make you these promises. From this point forward, Nadia, I promise I will laugh with you in times of joy and comfort you in times of sorrow. I promise I will share in your dreams, and support you in your hopes. I promise I will listen to you with compassion and understanding, and speak to you with encouragement. I promise I will help you when you need it, and step aside when you don't. I promise I will remain faithful to you for better or worse, in times of sickness and health. Nadia, you are my best friend and I will love you and respect you always. And today, I can officially say you've made me into the man I want to be. I already have given you my heart...you're wearing it around your neck...and now, I give you my life to do whatever you want to it. From here on out, I'm yours."

Tom then gently holds Nadia's left hand and slips her wedding ring on her ring finger. As he does, he says "I love you, Nadia. And I will love you for all of eternity, even after our time on earth is done."

They then go back to holding hands. Nadia looks genuinely touched at Tom's vows and mouths "That was beautiful" at him. Tom simply mouths back "Thank you."

The minister smiles wide and says "And now, the moment we all have been waiting for...Thomas Loren Falk...Nadia Anabella Santos...I now pronounce you husband and wife. Thomas, you may now kiss the bride."

Tom takes a step forward and calmly puts his hand on Nadia's waist. Nadia, however, isn't feeling as patient. In her trademark move, she quickly puts her right hand on the back of Tom's head and pulls him in for a deep, deep kiss that literally sucks the wind out of each other.

The crowd stands up and claps as they continue their long kiss. Finally, Nadia releases and pulls back quickly with a giant, satisfied smile on her face. Tom has a smile that is about as equally as large. Both of them are trying to catch their breath, and they both laugh a little bit out of both happiness and joy.

Then, the minister says "Everyone, I'd like to present to you Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Nadia Falk!" The crowd continues to clap as Tom and Nadia hold each other's hand and walk down from the alter.

They both have glowing smiles in their faces as they walk down the aisle past their friends and family and out the front door into the dry, desert heat of Baja California. They could care less about the heat, though. They have other things on their mind right now.

When they get outside and, seeing as they're alone for at least a few moments, the first thing Tom and Nadia do is embrace each other tightly and engage in another long and energetic kiss. After a few seconds, they release and Nadia, completely filled with excited and happy energy, exclaims "WE'RE MARRIED!" Tom replies "We are! I can't believe it finally happened!"

Nadia then dives into Tom's arms again and gives him another strong hug. As they hug, Sydney and Mike walk out of the front doors. Nadia releases the hug and bounds over to Sydney to give her an excited hug. Sydney looks a little surprised at Nadia's explosion of energy, but returns the hug just as strongly. Nadia excitedly says "This is so amazing...I can't believe I'm married!" Sydney laughs a bit and says "I hope you believe it soon! You're married, sis!" Nadia exclaims "I KNOW! I'm so happy right now!"

Tom walks up to Mike and they give each other a standard hug. They quickly release and Mike tells Tom "Congratulations, bud. That was a heck of a ceremony...I told you you'd do fine." Tom pats Mike on the shoulder and says "Thank you for being there...as always." Mike pats Tom back on the shoulder and says "No problem, bud. I'm happy for you."

Soon after, everyone else starts filing out of the church. Tom immediately spots David. He walks over to him and they give each other a strong hug. As they hug, Tom pats David on the back and says "Thank you for what you said." As they release, David says "I meant every word. You're the man." Tom shakes his head and says "No, you are. I wouldn't be getting married today without your computer wizardry when you, Mike, and Nadia got me sprung from prison!" David smiles and looks at the ground a little embarrassed at the compliment.

Meanwhile, Karen gives Nadia a hug and says "From one Falk to another, welcome to the family!" Nadia excitedly says "Thank you! And thank you for what you said about me!" Karen releases the hug and says "Hon, you're the light of my baby brother's life. I know you'll take care of him!" Nadia smiles wide and says "And I know he'll take care of me." Karen frowns and says "He better, or he'll have me to answer to! He knows better than to piss off his sister, trust me!" Nadia laughs at Karen's feisty spirit.

Tom walks up to Marshall and shakes his hand. "Marshall, heck of a speech." Marshall nervously smiles and says "Really? I could have been smoother..." Tom shakes is head. "It's not how you said it. It's what you said. I really appreciate you being here and for all your help while Nadia was in the hospital." Marshall shrugs and anxiously says "No problem...I mean, I know how much seeing Nadia meant to you, and when Syd couldn't escort you...I just thought I should step in. I mean, you helped me move in my HDTV and, um, what else...oh, we had lunch that one day..." Tom laughs and says "Don't mention it. I'm glad to consider you a friend." Marshall cracks a confident smile at that and looks around to see if anyone else heard that.

Nadia spots Jack hanging out near the doors. She walks up to him quickly and says "Thank you so much for being here. I was so worried that you weren't going to come because of what I did..." Jack shakes his head. "You did what you had to do to get your husband back. I was quite surprised when I heard you even wanted to come back to APO. I thought for sure you were going to move on...I guess my instinct was right." Nadia smiles and says "Thank you for understanding." Jack cracks a small smile and says "You look great today, and I'm happy for the both of you, I really am." Nadia gives Jack a relieved smile, then gives him a hug.

Tom spots Vaughn standing next to Sydney and walks up to him for a handshake. Vaughn puts Isabelle over his left shoulder and shakes Tom's hand with a grin. "Good job up there, you did good." Tom smirks and says "Thanks!" Tom then looks at Isabelle, who's looking back at him with a smile. "And thank you for being a great ringbearer!" Isabelle coos a bit and excitedly shakes her arms up and down as Tom continues to look at her with a smile.

Lisa walks up to Tom and Vaughn and says "The baby giving Tom and Nadia their rings was so adorable!" Tom bends down and gives Lisa a hug. "Thanks for being here, Lisa. And thanks for being there for David." Lisa giggles and says "Oh stop! Gosh, you and David are always so melodramatic!" Tom laughs as he releases the hug and says "You know why I set you two up on that blind date?" Lisa shrugs and curiously asks "Why?" Tom replies "Because, I knew you'd wear the pants in your relationship." David, who was congratulating Nadia, looks back and irritatedly says "Hey!" Tom and Lisa both share a laugh at the ribbing on David.

Nadia walks back over to Tom and holds his hand. As she does, she looks back and says "Ok everyone, the reception is at our beach house! I hope you like fish, we have plenty!" Tom and Nadia then walk over to their car, followed by everyone else.

Tom opens the passenger's door and holds her hand like a gentleman as she gets into the seat. Tom then closes her door, runs over to the driver's side and quickly gets in and starts the car. Before he leaves, he can't resist turning over to Nadia and giving her another kiss.

Luckily for him, Nadia had the same idea and was already leaning over to kiss him. They exchange a couple tender kisses, and then look at each other in awe over being husband and wife. Finally, Tom says "You look so..." Nadia frantically cuts him off and says "You can tell me back at the beach house, everyone's going to beat us, let's go!"

Tom then backs out and drives off down the road. The trip to their little bungalow normally takes about 5 minutes from downtown San Felipe...but it only felt like 5 seconds for the both of them.

Tom and Nadia's bungalow

Back at the beach house, everyone has gathered and appears to be having a good time. Some stand out in the back patio while others are inside, trying to avoid the heat and the sun that is about an hour or so away from setting over the desert mountains to the west. All of the men have taken off their jackets and are now just in their white dress shirts.

Marshall, David, and Lisa are sitting on the couches inside, talking about computer stuff. After leaving Dark Cover, Lisa became a technology consultant and more than holds her own in the conversation with Marshall and David.

Jack, Vaughn, and Nadia are outside and having a pleasant conversation. Sydney is off in Tom and Nadia's bedroom, changing Isabelle's diaper.

Meanwhile, Mike and Karen are also outside, having what appears to be a very entertaining chat about something.

Tom's inside in the kitchen, rolling fish fillets in batter and frying them in the fryer. He looks like he's having a good time himself as he takes a drink of his glass of champagne. Most of the other guests have either beer or champagne themselves. Tom then grabs a remote and changes the song on the stereo to Guns and Roses' "Sweet Child O' Mine."

As Tom sets more fish into the fryer, Nadia steps in from the back patio. She tiptoes behind Tom and puts her hands over his eyes. Tom freezes and says "This better be my wife..." Tom pulls Nadia's hands away and turns and faces a giddy Nadia.

Nadia puts her hands on Tom's shoulder and leans up for a quick peck on the lips. When she's done, she asks "Why don't you join the rest of us? The fish can wait..." Tom shakes his head and says "I will! I'm just trying to keep up with demand, that's all. Everyone seems to really like our fish!"

Nadia then stands next to Tom and leans back on the counter. As she looks out at Mike and Karen, she playfully says "I think we have a situation developing with two of our guests..." Tom looks at her funny and asks "Who?"

Nadia points to Mike and Karen. Tom looks over at them and sees both of them smiling and laughing over something. Tom shrugs as he goes back to the fish and plainly says "Seems like they're having a good time to me." Nadia looks over at Tom and says "They've been flirting with each other since they got here!"

Tom flashes her a quick, surprised look and asks "What?" Nadia turns back to Mike and Karen and says "I overheard them a few times. They're both saying things like how nice each other looks, trading jokes and stories..."

Tom shrugs and say "So?" Nadia looks back at him and says "They've also been...touchy with each other, too." Tom looks back outside and sees Karen adjusting Mike's tie.

Tom shakes his head in disbelief. "No way. Mike's not her type." Nadia asks "What type does Karen have?"

Tom sighs and says "Mike's too quiet and too small for him, she likes bigger men. Besides, she has a son and that usually is enough to send Mike running for the hills. This is so baffling, he knows Karen has a kid..." Tom stops when he sees Mike and Karen give each other a hug. Nadia notices as well, and looks back at Tom with a smirk. "See what I mean?"

Tom turns away and stares at the frying fish in disbelief. "That is just so bizarre..." Tom hears the patio door slide open and a smiling Karen walks back in. Nadia gives Tom a pat on the back and goes to walk outside to rejoin Jack and Vaughn. Sydney has also re-emerged with Isabelle and joins Nadia outside.

Karen, meanwhile, walks and stands next to her brother. Tom gives her a somewhat conspicuous look and asks "Having a good time?" Karen just gives him an unassuming smile and says "Yeah, I am. Your friend Mike is a riot!"

Tom takes some fried fish out of the fryer and sets them on a plate. As he does, he says "Mike's my best friend not named Nadia. We've both seen and done a lot together, ever since we met in 1992. He's a great guy, and he's full of funny stories." Karen looks back out at Mike, who has joined in on the conversation Sydney, Nadia, Jack, and Vaughn are having.

Karen then turns back to Tom and casually asks "Is he seeing anyone?" This causes Tom to suddenly drops his tongs in shock.

Karen notices and asks "What? What is it?" Tom turns and says "You have the hots for Mike? Really? He's five years younger than you and he's not your type!"

Karen incredulously looks at Tom and asks "And how would you know what type I have?" Tom replies "I've seen the guys you date! Isn't Mike a little...small for you?"

Karen lets out a somewhat disgusted sigh and says "I've grown up a little since my twenties, baby brother! Besides, his beard is cute...he's got a great smile...he makes me laugh..."

Tom rolls his eyes and says "Ok, enough! I know Mike, I don't need a description!" Karen now insistently asks "So, is he dating anyone or not?"

Tom raises his eyebrows open wide and says "No...he's not! But he lives in Baltimore and is considering moving back to his hometown in New Mexico. I'm not sure how you two would work..." Karen replies "Well, who says I have to stay in Missouri? I'm 41 years old, maybe I'd like to live somewhere else, too!"

Tom shakes his head and says "You want to uproot yourself and Danny after all this time? You hardly ever leave Bunker!" Karen shrugs and says "Well, it's something I'd consider for the right guy..."

Tom finishes taking the fish out of the fryer and turns to Karen. "Look, you're my older sister. I'm not in any position to tell you you shouldn't date anyone. But, Mike is my friend, and..." Karen gives Tom a pat on the shoulder and says "I understand. I'll just drop it. I'm sorry I brought it up."

Karen then walks away a little disappointed. Tom turns to her and solemnly says "Hey, Karen..." Karen stops and turns to Tom and asks "What?" Tom replies "I'm not saying you two shouldn't date. Just...let me talk to him first? I know him, I'll see where his head's at, ok?" Karen dismissively shrugs and says "Fine."

Karen then walks down the hallway to freshen up in the bathroom. Since there's no more fish to fry at the moment, Tom then walks out to the patio to join Mike, Nadia, Sydney, Vaughn, and Jack.

Nadia smiles as he steps out and says "Hey, look who decided to join us!" Tom sheepishly smiles and says "Yeah, yeah...anyway, there's more fish if you want any of it." Vaughn then says "That's really good fish, you said you caught it all yourselves?" Tom nods and goes to say something, but Nadia cuts him off by confidently saying "Well, I caught most of it..."

Tom rolls his eyes and says "Oh come on, we were even!" Nadia replies "But you had to release most of your fish because they were so small!" Sydney then steps in and says "You both caught the fish! You're married, you're supposed to do everything together!"

Nadia gives Sydney a playfully offended look and says "Hey, you're supposed to support your sister!" Tom then says "Hey, don't get angry at Sydney for being right!" Tom tells Sydney "Thank you, by the way!" Sydney smiles back and says "Absolutely! Anyway, I'm going to have some more fish, who's coming with?" Sydney walks back in, followed by Vaughn and Jack.

Mike turns to Tom and asks "What kind of fish is that?" Tom replies "Grouper. And yeah, it's great." Nadia smirks and says "Especially when you know you caught it yourself!" Tom looks at her and rolls his eyes and says "Yeah, yeah. My wife, the fishing queen..."

Tom then says "Nadia, I need a word in private with Mike if you don't mind." Nadia nods and says "Sure, I'll be inside." Tom and Nadia exchange a quick kiss and Nadia walks towards the back patio door.

Tom watches her walk away with a look of admiration. Even her backside looks splendid today. Mike notices Tom admiring at his wife and says "She really looks great today." Tom nods and, still staring at Nadia, says "I'm the luckiest man on the face of this earth."

Nadia reaches the door and turns towards Tom. She immediately notices she's been staring at her this whole time. Tom smiles and gives her a wink. Nadia smiles back and returns the wink with one of her own before stepping inside.

Mike now curiously asks Tom "What's up?" Tom turns to Mike, folds his arms and plainly says "My sister likes you."

Mike bashfully looks down at the ground and says "I kind of noticed..." Tom gives him a funny look and says "And, guessing by the shy look you have on your face now, you like her too and you're afraid to say it around me."

Mike kicks at the ground a little bit, then looks back up at Tom. "Tom, I'm almost afraid to say this..." Tom pats Mike on the shoulder and says "Mike, you know you can tell me anything, it's ok."

Mike takes a deep breath and says "I've kind of had a crush on your sister for a while now." Tom's facial expression turns blank. He blankly asks "Really?"

Mike gives Tom a timid smile and says "Yeah, I remember her fondly from your first wedding and from when she'd visit you sometimes when we were in LA." Tom confoundedly asks "Ok...what makes my sister so special to you? I'm not seeing it."

Mike looks back down at the ground and says "Well, she's nice, she's funny, she's got a great spirit. She's also..." Mike thinks about what he's about to say, then looks up at Tom and says "I think Karen is beautiful. Just something about her eyes and her smile..." Tom holds up his hand and says "Ok, I get the picture."

Mike then says "Anyway, I know she's your sister, and I was afraid to ask if it'd be alright if I asked her out..." Tom laughs a bit, stopping Mike in his tracks. Mike concernedly asks "What? I can't?" Tom looks out at the sea for a split second, then back at Mike. "I'm laughing because Karen just asked me if you were dating anyone."

Mike forms a look of surprise and says "Really? She said that?" Tom nods and says "Yeah. Apparently she thinks about you the same way you think about her...right down to the smile."

Mike beams wider and says "Did she really? Wow...I mean...yeah, wow!" Tom shakes his head a bit and laughs. "Mike, I had no idea you felt that way about my sister. This totally is coming out of nowhere...but don't worry about what I think. Just ask yourself if you could maintain such a long-term relationship."

Mike smirks and says "Like I told you before, I'm looking to make a change in my life and career. I can make it work." Tom thinks about that for a bit, then understandingly nods and starts walking back towards the patio door.

Mike, a little confused, asks "So, does this mean I can ask her out?" Tom looks back at him and says "Mike, I'm not her keeper! I just wanted to let you know what she told me. You can do what you like."

Tom then walks back into the beach house while Mike breathes a loud sigh of relief.

Tom, upon walking in, sees Nadia, Sydney, Vaughn, and Jack sitting at the dining table, enjoying their fish and drinks. He then spots Karen standing near the hallway, looking at him with a hopeful look.

Tom gives her a small smile as he walks over to her. Karen nervously asks "I saw you talking to Mike just now, what did he say?" Tom gives his sister a sarcastic look and says "I'm a little old to be playing messenger boy between two grown adults. Why don't you ask him yourself?"

Tom then gives Karen a warm smile and a wink, alleviating her fears a bit. Karen smiles widely back and says "I think I just will!" Karen then walks around Tom and goes and joins Mike in the back patio. Tom looks at them two light up at the sight of each other again and has a satisfied smile on his face. Maybe they would be good for each other...

As he stands there, Vaughn stands up, grabs his suit jacket, and approaches Tom. Tom asks "What's up?" Vaughn replies "I know today's your wedding day and all, but I have something I think you should see. It regards your mother."

Tom looks a little surprised, and looks over at his shoulder at Nadia. Tom motions her over, and she stands up and joins them. She asks "What is it?" Tom tells Vaughn "If it regards my mother, I think Nadia would be interested."

Vaughn nods and the three proceed to Tom and Nadia's bedroom.

Tom and Nadia sit on the edge of the bed. Vaughn sits next to Tom and says "I read your mother's diary a few nights ago. I just want to say I'm sorry for what happened to her." Tom shakes his head and says "It's ok, me and Nadia have come to grips with it."

Vaughn then says "I got to the part where she said she changed her name to Nancy Taylor. She must have used that alias before she officially changed her name." Nadia asks "How do you know that?"

Vaughn sighs and says "I had a math tutor for a few years growing up. Her name was also Nancy Taylor. And when I read about her alias, I remember how you described your mother, Tom. It was a perfect description of the Nancy I knew." Tom shakes his head and says "So, maybe she wasn't a maid...maybe she thought being a tutor was more dignified."

Vaughn says "Anyway, I looked through my old photos...and I found a picture of her. I thought you should see it." Vaughn reaches inside his suit jacket and pulls out a photo and hands it to Tom. Tom examines it.

It's a picture of young Vaughn holding up a math test to the camera. He got an A on the test and he's got a big smile over it. But, in the background, we see a familiar blonde, early 40's woman sitting on the other side of the kitchen table. She's leaning forward and looking at Vaughn with a closed, wide smile.

Tom recognizes her immediately. With his voice shaking, he says "That's my mom...that's her..." A tear streams down his cheek, and Nadia immediately puts her arm around him to console him.

Tom looks over at Vaughn and asks "When was this picture taken?" Vaughn replies "I think I was 7 when that picture was taken. Guessing by the Christmas decorations, I'd say this was sometime around Christmas 1978." Tom wipes his tears away as Nadia asks Vaughn "How do you remember her? What was she like?"

Vaughn replies "She was very nice. Intelligent...even funny at times. But, as I thought about it, there were times where she looked visibly troubled...like something was weighing on her a lot. When I cross-referenced her diary entries in 1978 and 1979, my guess was what she was doing for you two was really starting to take a toll on her. This would have been after the time you accidentally spotted her. And of course, I never saw her again after she went off the grid with my father." Tom looks over at Vaughn and says "I know this might be a sensitive subject...but did she and your father seem close? Like, romantically?"

Vaughn shakes his head. "No. That must have developed later." Tom nods and says "Good. I'd hate to think of my mom as a homewrecker."

Tom then goes to hand Vaughn the picture back. Vaughn, however, holds up his hand and says "No, you can keep it. It means more to you than me." Tom wipes some more tears from his eyes and says "Sorry I'm tearing up...this is the first picture I've seen of her after the car accident I thought she died in. I just think back to all those Christmases where I wish my mother was around...and she wasn't. All because of this damned prophecy..."

Vaughn stands up and says "I realize this might not be much consolation, but your mother was very helpful, math was not my best subject!" Tom looks up and, still a little emotional, says "Thanks, I'm glad she could help you. And make sure Karen doesn't know what we were just talking about, ok? It'd destroy her." Vaughn nods and says "Of course."

Vaughn then walks out. Tom and Nadia keep looking down at the picture, both feeling a little deflated now. And then...something happens that neither one of them expected.

A familiar voice comes through to them: "Put the picture away."

Tom and Nadia both look up quickly in shock. Mary Falk has finally broken her silence. Nadia gets up and quickly closes the door and locks it so no one stumbles on their conversation.

As she rejoins her husband on the edge of their bed, Tom, still feeling a little emotional, asks "Mom...why didn't you ever tell me any of this?" Mary replies "Because what good would it have done?"

Tom replies "It would have given me peace of mind, for one." Mary replies "Your mind was already at peace when it came to my death. If you were told that I died to protect Nadia, I knew it would devastate you...and I knew it would devastate you as well, Nadia." As Tom closes his eyes and takes deep breaths to try to compose himself, Nadia looks down and says "Mary, I never asked you to sacrifice yourself for me."

Mary says "I know you didn't. But what you were undergoing made me physically sick. I can't imagine what your quality of life was like in Soviet custody. I feared for you and I wanted to make sure you were safe along with Tom." Tom irritatedly says "But you also wanted to keep us apart!"

After some brief silence, Mary says "I did. I thought if you two never met, then you two could avoid everything you've endured so far, and what would have come with the ultimate prophecy." Nadia intently asks "Ok, what is the ultimate prophecy? You must still know what it is! It completely changed your purpose for leaving Tom in the first place!"

Mary replies "The ultimate prophecy...is not relevant anymore." Tom says "Not relevant? How so? It can't happen anymore?" Mary says "Not as long as you two keep loving each other and live the new life that you two have dreamed of. You'll have nothing to worry about. It's a good thing the ultimate prophecy remains a secret. Tom, if certain people knew about it, there would be a race to have you killed. Rambaldi followers have good reason to fear what's in the ultimate prophecy. The page you created is destroyed, but probably could be made again. Elena cut off the bottom part of your manuscript and destroyed it, so that makes me the only one that knows how to create the page, so you're safe. I won't say any more about it, though. The secret is safe with me...and safe from people like Arvin Sloane."

Tom, in a serious tone, asks "Ok, since you're here, I need your honest answer. Did you lie to me about Sloane wanting me killed?" After some silence, Mary replies "That's not important anymore. Sloane is gone from your lives. That's the important thing."

Tom dryly says "That's not what I asked." Mary quickly replies "Listen, this is your wedding day! Why are you wasting your time and emotions on me anyway? Put the picture away and go enjoy the rest of the party! This is your day to celebrate!"

Tom nods and gets up and puts the picture in a drawer next to the bed. "You're absolutely right, Mom. This is the greatest day of my life...what am I doing stewing over this crap?" Mary's words also appear to have an effect on Nadia, as she starts looking more relieved.

Mary says "And Nadia, I'm willing to bet this day ranks pretty high for you, too!" Nadia cracks a sincere smile and says "It's the best day of my life, too. This day has been such a dream come true!" Tom sits next to Nadia and puts her arm around her and gives her a kiss on the cheek. "It's a dream come true for me, too, babe."

Mary then says "Now, there you go! Before I leave, I just want to say a couple of things. First, Nadia, you look so beautiful today! What a darling dress!" Nadia smiles wide and says "Thank you, Mary!" Tom then says "She's absolutely right, you're stunning!"

Mary continues. "Nadia, I just also want to say how proud I am that you're my daughter-in-law. Watching you two has been a joy to behold for me, and I'm so happy that you two finally tied the knot! I just loved the ceremony!" Tom smiles and says "I knew you were there, watching us." Nadia grabs Tom's hand and says "I knew she was, too."

We hear Mary take a deep breath and say "And finally...Mike is a great catch for Karen. You have nothing to worry about there, Tom." Tom just shrugs and says "Hey, what Karen and Mike do is their business..."

Mary laughs and says "Oh stop! I know that pairing has you worried sick! Well, don't! Mike and Karen is another relationship involving my children that I'd hope to see one day. Oh, and good eye, Nadia! You saw the sparks flying right away!" Nadia laughs and says "I did! It was so obvious! They were cute together, actually!"

Mary laughs again and replies "They were, weren't they? Anyway, I'll let you two go. Nadia, I want you to know that I love you like I would a daughter, and I'm so happy everything is turning out well for you. And Tom...take care of your wife. She's going to need your love these next few months. After all...I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to my granddaughter!" Tom and Nadia both exchange surprised glances. Nadia then asks "How do you know I'm carrying a girl?"

Mary laughs and replies "Oh, I don't! I just have a feeling, that's all! Good luck, you two." Tom says "I love you, Mom. And thank you for being there for Nadia."

Nadia then says "Yes, thank you so much, Mary. I'm forever grateful for all you did for me." Mary simply says "You're welcome."

Tom and Nadia both exchange smiling glances. Tom rubs Nadia's back a bit and says "Did you hear that? All we have to do from here on out is just keep loving each other." Nadia returns the back rub by rubbing Tom's back and saying "I think that will be pretty easy!"

Tom then stands up and says "Come on, let's go rejoin our guests." Tom holds out his hand and Nadia grabs it as she gets up to her feet. Before they proceed out of the room, Nadia steals a quick kiss. Tom smiles and says "I love when you do that." Nadia laughs as they exit the bedroom.

Later that night, Tom, Nadia, Karen, and Mike are saying their final goodbyes at the door. Everyone else has left already.

Karen gives Nadia a hug and says "So, how does it feel to be a Falk? Any regrets yet?" Nadia laughs and says "No! I'm now have a last name that means something!" Karen releases the hug and, with a wide smile, says "I'm so happy to call you my sister-in-law, hon. You'd make my mother so proud!" As she tries to hide a smirk, Nadia says "I know I would...based on what Tom tells me about her anyway!"

Meanwhile, Tom gives Mike a poundhug and says "Thanks again for being my best man." Mike smirks and says "Thanks for not jumping down my throat over Karen." Tom whispers "I know the man you are. You won't break my sister's heart."

Then Tom gets close to Mike's ear and whispers very softly "Oh, and I just talked to my mom a couple hours ago. She approves of you dating my sister." Mike raises his eyebrows and whispers back "Really? Tell her thanks!" Tom shakes his head and says "She probably heard it just now, consider it done. But again, not a word to Karen about my mom...got it?" Mike nods and says "Got it."

As Tom and Mike release the hug, Nadia, in a playfully curious tone, asks "So, when's the first date between you two?" Mike and Karen look at each other, then back at Tom and Nadia. Karen says "Well, turns out I'm not going back to Bunker when I leave here. I'm going to Baltimore with Mike!"

Nadia raises her eyebrows and says "That's pretty courageous for a first date!" Karen laughs and says "What? And have him come down to Bunker and eat at the crappy diner...the only place to eat in town? Please! Besides, it was Mike's idea." Tom looks at Mike funny and asks "Really?" Mike shrugs and says "Yeah, why not? We'll have fun."

Tom laughs a bit and shakes his head. "Ok..." Karen puts her hands on her hips and says "You don't think it's going to go well?" Tom looks over at her and smiles. "Not at all. I hope you two have a good time. Besides..." Tom looks over at Nadia with a smirk, then back at Karen. "I have a feeling my mom would have liked Mike for some reason. She probably would approve of you two going out." Mike grins as Karen laughs and says "That was nice of you to say!"

Mike then opens the door and says "Take care, you two. Congrats again." Tom and Nadia both say "thanks!" Mike lets Karen out first and they close the door.

Tom turns around and looks at the mess that was made from the party. He sighs and says "And now, the cleanup begins." Nadia smiles as she puts her arms around Tom's waist and says "It can wait. We have something left to do tonight!"

Tom looks down at her and asks "And just what might that be?" Nadia starts walking towards the back patio and says "Follow me."

Tom follows Nadia over to the stereo and puts in a CD. Instantly, we hear the opening strains of "All I Want Is You" from U2. Nadia sets the stereo to play the song on repeat, then grabs Tom's hand and walks out to the back patio with him.

The eventually stop in the middle of the patio under a clear, starlit night. The sounds of U2 and the waves crashing in from the sea provide the soundtrack for a nice slow dance.

Nadia stands in front of Tom and puts her arms around Tom's waist and lays her head on his right shoulder. Tom puts his hands on Nadia's lower back and they start their slow dance...just the two of them, along with the stars and the sea.

At first, they say nothing. This is a moment where nothing needs to be said. They both just focus in on themselves and their heart beats pounding as one. They both take a note of their hearts beating in perfect sync, but say nothing. They both smile over that fact, though.

Finally, after a little while, Nadia breaks the silence and says "Tom, do you ever have moments in your life that you wish you could just put in a bottle and save for another day? Moments that you can just open up and experience in times where you need them the most?" Tom replies "Yeah, I do. I wish life worked like that."

Nadia, with her head still on Tom's shoulder, says "This is one of those moments. All the times where I felt alone in the world, I wish I had this moment I'm sharing with you...to remind me that there is someone out there that loves me like you do. There's nowhere else I'd rather be than in your arms right now." Tom cracks a smile and says "I'm loving this too, Nadia. This day makes everything I've been through worth it. I don't want it to end."

Nadia then looks up at Tom and says "I hope we still feel this way about each other 10, 20, 30 years down the road." Tom smiles as he brushes some of her hair back. "We will. Our love has endured gunshots, infections, comas, prison, and even death. It will last the test of time."

Nadia smiles and gives him a small peck on the lips. She then puts her head back on Tom's shoulder to continue the slow dance. A few seconds later, she says "I love you, handsome." Tom rubs Nadia's back a bit and says "I love you, beautiful."

They would dance for about 30 minutes after that before heading to bed.

The rest of their vacation in San Felipe would serve as their honeymoon. Much to their chagrin, the ensuing week would fly by. But, they looked forward to the foundation that they laid for their future on this trip and the prospect of coming back here eventually to start their family.

In this trip, they relaxed, had fun, got married, and picked out the home they would live in for the rest of their lives. Tom got not one, but two job opportunities, and to top it all off, they sent Sloane packing for good.

This was the best vacation either one of them have ever had.

Author note: From what I could find, Nadia's middle name was never revealed. So, I gave her 'Anabella', and for good reason. It means 'Easy to Love'. Plus, I thought it flowed well.

Another annoying author note: I'd STRONGLY recommend playing "All I Want Is You" during the slow dance. You don't have to...but I thought the song really added a lot to that part of the chapter when I read it back.

Ok, I haven't done any posturing for reviews up until this point, but I really have a lot of hope for this chapter. If there is one chapter that I want you all to enjoy, I really hope it's this one. PLEASE review this, even if you liked it or not! If this sucks, tell me! If it's great, tell me! PLEASE!