A/N: The first half of the chapter involves sex. I would've cut it out, but I felt like it was kind of important—important enough to keep in this version.

"Peter," Neal whined, his back arching off of the couch as Peter continued teasing him, sucking at his nipples and licking his skin. Peter grinned. He didn't mind tormenting Neal like this because he knew Neal liked it. "Please, make love to me," he pleaded.

The older man loved when Neal begged—much to his disdain after everything Neal had gone through. He smiled softly at the young man, whispering, "Wow," when he saw how breathless Neal was. Neal's face was flushed and his chest glistened with his sweat. He admitted to loving the way Neal looked after a blowjob as well as how he looked after coming during their lovemaking. It was enough to make his throat dry—and apparently so was this.

Peter shifted himself back onto the couch, kissing Neal's chest. Neal mewled, waiting for Peter to take this one step further rather impatiently. Peter grabbed the lube bottle, opening it to coat his middle and index fingers generously. He rubbed his fingers together, stroking along Neal's thigh with his other hand. As soon as he felt the lube was warm enough to be comfortable for Neal, he slipped his middle finger into the younger man. He watched Neal's reactions. At the moment, Neal's eyes were closed and his lips were parted in a silent gasp, but his hips were moving to meet each pumping motion of Peter's hand.

When he slid his index finger in alongside his middle finger, Neal did gasp and Peter stopped immediately, seeing the pain in Neal's expression. Maybe he hadn't realized how long it's been since he was actually inside of Neal's body and not just Neal's mouth or hand. Neal gripped Peter's forearm, whispering, "I'm okay," as he opened his eyes. He knew Peter wouldn't move until Peter was sure Neal was all right. "I'm okay," he promised.

Peter didn't pump his hand again until Neal gave him a small smile. He knew by now when Neal was ready for more. Neal seemed a little tense, so he thought he'd try some pillow talk to ease Neal. "I've been meaning to ask you something," he said quietly as he slipped the condom onto his length and slicked it with lube. Neal gave him a curious look as he waited. "Have you ever wanted to top? To be inside…me?"

"No." Peter was stunned by the automatic response. He assumed Neal might have to think about it for a moment or two. Then again, Neal never commented on switching positions entirely. "I don't like the idea of dominating someone as strong as you, Peter." He swallowed hard, blinking a little too quickly for Peter's comfort. "I like that you have control over me," he whispered.

He wasn't sure what to think of that. He didn't consider making love to Neal the same as controlling Neal. He himself wasn't entirely into the idea of Neal being inside of him, but he'd been wondering where Neal stood on that, wondering if it might make Neal feel better to be in the powerful position. Rethinking that last thought, he realized Neal would never feel better with power. Neal didn't like that. He tended to be submissive and Peter was okay with that as long as Neal was okay, too. He makes love to Neal, takes Neal for himself, and never had to think about it because Neal never asked for anything else. If Neal were into that, he'd probably have mentioned it by now. "I wasn't sure if you ever wanted to give it a try."

Neal shook his head. He knew where Peter stood on this particular conversation, but that wasn't why he didn't want to top. "I don't… I honestly don't like topping." His face heated up a bit and he bit his lip. "I know it's…weird, but I never felt right when I was inside of someone else." He ran his fingers along Peter's arms, keeping his eyes locked onto Peter's. "I like having someone…you inside of me." He was beginning to feel really embarrassed about the confession. Now he wondered if Peter would think he's weak because he can't top properly. It made his stomach twist, thinking that Peter would look down on him because he wasn't strong enough to make himself top or enjoy it. Maybe Vincent had totally ruined him and he was realizing to what extent now.

The older man felt like this was Adler's doing. He didn't agree with Neal's mother's belief that Neal was gay because of what Adler did to him, but he could reason that Neal didn't want to top because it scared him, because it might make him feel as though he were taking advantage of a lover. "As long as you're comfortable with that…"

Neal nodded. "I trust you with my body," he said sincerely. To emphasize that point, he spread his legs a little more. Peter kissed Neal's chest, licking his salty skin all the way up to his jaw before finally slipping into Neal's body. Neal made a quiet sound close to a whimper. Peter gave him a moment to adjust or tell him to stop before pushing in. Neal was gritting his teeth, his nails digging into Peter's shoulders. Peter pulled out, pushed in, pulled out again, and pushed in again—all at a slow pace to begin with. What was bothering Neal was that it seemed particularly rough this time.

Neal moaned and groaned alternatively, shutting his eyes tightly, trying to will the pain away. Peter was mouthing against Neal's throat and didn't seem to realize he was causing Neal pain. "I love you," he whispered into the hollow of Neal's throat. Neal forced himself not to cry out repeatedly. He knew Peter wasn't intentionally trying to hurt him. This wasn't a dream or a nightmare. This was reality and the reality was that Peter would probably hate himself once he realized what he was doing.

"Love you," Neal said through his teeth. His legs were around Peter's waist and his body shook. It was beginning to get to the point where he didn't understand what they were doing differently than any other time they'd made love. Neal couldn't remember ever hurting like this with Peter. He wanted to hold out and prove to himself that he was strong enough to brave a little bit of rough sex, but he was failing miserably. Something was off and he knew it wasn't intentional. He made a shaky, pained sound, begging quietly, "Peter. Peter, stop." He wasn't surprised by how immediate Peter's response was. He was concerned, unmoving. He lifted his head and rested a hand on Neal's chest. Neal was trying to keep himself under control, to push the pain and pressure aside, but he couldn't help that his breathing was heavy and that he was blinking back tears.

Peter watched each surge of pain cross Neal's expression in horror. "Holy shit. Neal, I'm so sorry." He was scrambling to comfort Neal, stroking his cheek, his hair, his neck. "I… I didn't mean to hurt you." He was also trying to pull out of Neal's body and Neal didn't want to end this just yet. He gripped Peter's leg, shaking his head. "Please, tell me what I did," Peter pleaded. "I never meant to hurt you."

"I know," Neal breathed. "Maybe the angle was wrong," he whispered. He hoped that was it. He didn't want Peter to blame himself for being rough. Peter shook his head, stroking Neal's legs against his own hips. Everything looked the same to him as it always did.

"Not to put the blame on you or anything," Peter said, sounding unsure of himself, "but…were you uneasy before we got started?"

Neal sighed, shrugging halfheartedly. He didn't want to admit his thoughts to Peter. Peter never liked when he put himself down, but he couldn't bring himself to directly lie to Peter and say he was totally fine. "I don't know," he said, frustrated. "My stupid brain… Ugh." Peter sympathized, understanding that the conversation they had beforehand might not have been as soothing or relaxing as he'd been hoping it would be for Neal. If anything, he'd made Neal feel worse about himself. Peter started to pull himself away from Neal again, trying to disconnect their bodies so he could get Neal through whatever was going on in his mind as best he could. Even if Neal wanted to be held, he'd do whatever he could. "Peter, don't," Neal whispered. "Let's finish, then we can go lay down on the bed together."

Peter wasn't happy with that. He didn't want Neal to be tense and suffer. His hand shook as he rubbed over Neal's heart. He remembered all the times he'd promised Neal that he'd never hurt him during sex and that's exactly what he'd just done. "I'm so sorry…"

Neal grunted, trying to twist them with all of his strength. He'd wanted to get Peter on his back so that he could sit atop Peter, straddling him, but the most he managed was getting them to lie on their sides, facing each other. "Peter, I'm fine." Once again, Peter tried to slip out of him. "Love, please." He gripped Peter's hip, staring into his lover's eyes. He waited for Peter to relax and look at him. Thus far, Peter wasn't able to return Neal's gaze. Neal twisted them again and finally got them into the position he wanted them in without separating their bodies. "Peter," he said softly.

The younger man leaned forward and kissed his fiancé. He was happy when Peter's lips moved against his. That was good in Neal's mind. Even when Peter stroked Neal's throat, slowly making his way up to Neal's jaw, he knew they'd be okay. "I'm so sorry for hurting you," Peter said, sounding intensely emotional. "I can't believe I didn't realize you were in pain. The fact that I completely ignored you really pisses me off."

"Don't be pissed. It's not like you kept going when I asked you to stop." He pecked the other man's lips, smiling a little. "I'm not mad at you, babe. I'm not all that hurt either. In fact, I feel perfectly fine now." Perfectly fine might have been an overstatement, but he needed Peter to believe him.

Peter sighed. "I supposed I should just be happy that you stopped me instead of keeping silent."

Neal nodded, rubbing Peter's chest. "Just be happy. I'm okay—we're okay." Peter slowly carded his fingers through Neal's hair, startling when Neal bounced on him as a reminder that they were still together. "Are you opposed to finishing?" Peter was hesitant, fearing he'd hurt Neal again. He didn't think he could handle that. Eventually, he shook his head and Neal smiled. He held Neal's hips as the younger man slowly impaled himself repeatedly on Peter's cock. He moaned each time Peter hit his prostate, hissing, "Fuck," while throwing his head back.

Peter stopped Neal after a few minutes before Neal could sink down onto Peter again. Instead, Peter thrust up into him, eliciting louder, pleased moans. He made sure he was careful, made sure he was rubbing Neal's skin and keeping him relaxed. The younger man looked like he was in absolute ecstasy and it made Peter's heart flutter. He liked seeing Neal this way because it wasn't very often that Neal was completely, indisputably happy. That wasn't Neal's fault and he'd never say it was. So much has happened to Neal and he understood every part of it since Neal made him understand. Peter felt that that helped their relationship. He wouldn't have been any less supportive if Neal kept himself closed, but it definitely helped when Neal let him in.

He wished he could always make Neal feel this good, look this happy. Neal deserved this. He deserved to be with a man who loved him in spite of his past. He deserved to be held when he wanted to be held, kissed when he wanted to be kissed, and he deserved to be told he was loved even if he didn't ask for it. Neal never deserved to suffer the way he has for a large portion of his life. If it were up to Peter, he'd have changed everything. He wanted Neal to live the life he'd been given. Peter was never rebellious or resentful of his parents. His parents loved him, encouraged him, and were there for him when he needed them. Neal's life had been lacking in all of those aspects. Peter was trying to make up for that now, but he knew Neal hated that he had no blood family other than his son and brother.

When Neal began to pant, Peter realized he'd totally zoned out even though he'd kept thrusting. Neal was trembling, which meant he was close. "Come on, babe," he whispered, kissing Neal's lips. He wanted Neal to come first. That was one of the most important things he did during sex. It was his job to make sure Neal was pleased, so he made damn sure Neal's orgasm was satisfying before he allowed himself the same experience. Neal cried out, crying Peter's name, as his legs gave out and he came in a blinding rush. Peter's chest was covered in Neal's seed and he didn't mind at all. He'd clean himself up this time though. Neal was thrilled when Peter liked how Neal tasted at times, so Peter would do that afterwards.

Neal's chest was heaving while Peter held him close. He'd practically collapsed on top of the older man. Peter was smiling, chuckling lightly as he played with Neal's hair. He himself was on the verge of release, but he wanted to watch Neal, to enjoy the sight of Neal in his afterglow.

"H-Holy fuck," he moaned. He really wanted to lay down on Peter completely and just fall asleep, but he felt like that would be selfish of him—though he wouldn't mind it if Peter kept fucking him while he tried to sleep until Peter orgasmed as well. He knew Peter would never do that to him, even if he said it was okay. Peter kept telling him in recent months that he was done when Neal was done, but Neal insisted that that was a load of bullshit. Taking the initiative, he slowly bounced on Peter, sloppily kissing the older man.

It definitely wasn't long before Peter finished. Afterwards, they laid on the couch comfortably. Peter never minded having Neal's weight on him. It was his one surefire way of knowing Neal was alive, that Neal was all right. They'd disconnected their bodies, and Neal was beginning to squirm because of how uncomfortable his drying come on Peter's chest felt. Peter also wanted to get the condom off for much the same reason. He wanted to spend a little more time with Neal though, relaxed.

Peter, ever the strong and powerful man he was, tried and failed to flip them over so he could press Neal into the couch and kiss him lazily. He'd completely overdone it and ended up rolling them off of the couch. "Shit," he groaned when Neal's back hit the coffee table and both of their ribs connected with the hard floor. Neal was staring at Peter's face, a slight sting surging through his lower back, but he burst into laughter. The older man was startled because he thought he'd really hurt Neal in the fall. "It's not funny, brat," he murmured, pecking Neal's lips. "Are you okay?"

"Totally." Neal wouldn't admit that his back hurt a bit. He'd devastated Peter by admitting to the pain he was in during sex. Coupling that with this would probably depress the hell out of Peter, which would probably mean he wouldn't touch Neal for the duration of the night until they were in bed together. He pecked Peter's lips, smiling. "No worries, lover."

Peter rose to his feet, pulling Neal up with him. His right hand rested on the small of Neal's back and his left cupped Neal's cheek, his thumb lightly striking Neal's lips. "Neal?" The younger man raised an eyebrow in response. Peter felt ridiculous for saying, "Thank you" to Neal after they'd just finished making love, but he also felt that it was necessary for him to thank Neal on an emotional level. The physical thanks was all too obvious.

Neal blushed, smiling softly now. "I should be thanking you," he whispered.

Peter shook his head, taking Neal's lips passionately, cupping the back of Neal's head with the hand he'd originally had on Neal's cheek. He held Neal in place, moving his lips slowly against Neal's, trying to put all of his love into that single kiss. He hoped he'd conveyed it well enough and he realized he had when they parted moments later as soon as Neal grinned and dragged him towards the bathroom to shower up.

•◊•

The day before Peter's birthday was Neal's bridal party with the girls and Peter's birthday would be Peter's bachelor party. Three days following Peter's birthday, they'd be getting married—exactly two years to the date that they'd been together.

Peter, though Elizabeth forbade it, helped Neal get dressed for his party. He teased Neal about wearing a dress since that's what the girls would be wearing and Neal promptly punched Peter's chest playfully, pouting. Neal wasn't in the mood for a complete suit. He'd be wearing one for both of his wedding ceremonies and then he'd be stripped out of it the night after their family ceremony since he and Peter would go on a two-day honeymoon. It was the most either of them felt comfortable with, deciding that leaving Nicky for a week might be too long of a separation. They'd take a longer, belated honeymoon trip someday in the future and Peter promised him that they'd go to Paris.

Peter stepped back after he'd straightened out the vest and tie Neal had on. Quickly, he moved toward the bed, grabbing Neal's gray fedora. He flipped it onto Neal's head, eliciting a small laugh from the younger man. He smiled at his lover, freezing the moment in his mind. "You're gorgeous," he whispered. Neal smiled at him, appreciating the compliment. He thanked Peter and stepped forward to hug the older man tightly. "Just a few more days," Peter said against Neal's neck, "and you'll be my husband."

Neal shivered with anticipation, eager to change his and Nicky's surname. This relationship was permanent and very serious. He could never see himself marrying another man if things with Peter went wrong somehow. Opening up to Peter was the hardest thing he'd done in his life and continuing to do so was a struggle, but he'd done it. He'd pulled Peter in and held onto him tightly and Peter willingly stood at his side to give him his support. "I'm so excited," Neal murmured.

The older man squeezed Neal gently, smiling. "I love you, Nealie."

"Mm," Neal groaned. "I prefer Neal," he muttered. "I'd take Neal, sweetheart, babe, hon, honey, love, lover, and maybe even sexy over Nealie with you any day." Peter chuckled, kissing Neal's cheek. "But I love you, too, Peter."

"You're all of those terms of endearment, Neal. You forgot gorgeous, beautiful, and angel though."

Neal laughed. "When have you ever called me 'angel'?"

Peter pulled back and smirked at Neal. "I'm going to start now, angel." He always thought Neal was an angel, so he may as well say it aloud. He loved the look of excitement in Neal's eyes. He was just sad to have to send Neal to his absolute doom with the women for a few hours. "El's going to be here soon and she'll have my head if you're not out there the second she arrives."

The younger man nodded, laughing quietly. "Did she tell you she's kidnapping me the night before our wedding?"

"Seriously?" Neal nodded, smiling. "Oh, hell no," Peter said, chuckling. "I'll try to refrain from making love to you the night before our wedding to stick to some tradition, but I'm not sleeping alone."

Neal raised an eyebrow. "You would defy Elizabeth Almighty?"

Peter burst into laughter, kissing Neal sweetly. "That's great," he teased. "And yes. I know she'll kidnap you anyway, but you damn well better text me until you're too tired to keep it up."

Neal nodded, taking Peter's hands in his. "I will. I promise. I don't like the idea of spending the night without you either, but El will kill one or both of us if we try to talk her out of it or persuade her to let it slide."

"We won't be able to see each other until we meet at the courthouse," Peter said quietly. "She won't let me see you until we're about to get married—I swear she's a God damn movie and book junkie, using everything she's ever seen or read." Neal kept smiling, agreeing silently. "We'll have to make sure you have all of the paperwork you need before I 'let' her take you away from me for the night. You know I'll probably lose your papers in the midst of all of my own."

Neal laughed. "Just don't forget the divorce decree," he teased. "I know you'd like to put that behind you, but you'll screw us if you forget it."

"Will you remind me to bring the rings, too?" Peter asked sarcastically. Neal giggled and kissed Peter's jaw. "They're in a safe spot. We literally just bought them a couple days ago. I don't think even I could manage to lose them."

The younger man smirked. "We'll see, my love. I trust you with them though." They couldn't wait to get married and they definitely couldn't wait for their undercover op to come to an end. Taking their engagement rings off all the time was kind of depressing, as was pretending they were mere acquaintances instead of intimate lovers. They were being given two weeks to formulate a perfect plan and they'd get around to it after they came back from their two-day honeymoon.

Reese told them to enjoy themselves and celebrate their marriage. He didn't want to see a single text or receive a single phone call from either of them before they were due to return to the office. Both men appreciated that and were willing to take full advantage of secluding themselves for two days. They couldn't ignore Nicky or Mozzie if there was an emergency though, which would be the only reason they'd come home early if necessary.

Peter patted Neal's cheek before kissing him slowly, sliding his tongue against Neal's lips before the younger man opened his mouth and allowed Peter entrance. He wanted to keep going, to keep kissing Neal until they were completely out of breath, but Neal's phone buzzed. Both men parted, resting their foreheads together. Peter stroked Neal's sides, pecking Neal's lips occasionally. "I'd better let you get out there before she comes to get you. That won't be pretty." Neal smiled, kissing Peter one last time before giving him a hug. "I'll see you tonight, honey. Have fun, please."

"Love you," Neal whispered, kissing Peter's neck. "See you tonight, love."

"Love you, too." They parted and couldn't help smiling softly at one another before Neal's phone buzzed again. "Have fun," Peter repeated as he walked Neal downstairs to the front door. He kissed Neal for the last time before letting him head out to Elizabeth's car. He leaned against the doorway, watching Neal strap himself in beside Elizabeth, talking and smiling while he did so. Neal turned to wave at him before they took off and that warmed Peter's heart. Neal was perfect in every way possible—even if Neal himself didn't see it that way.

He headed back up to the apartment, smiling to himself. Neal is the light of his life, he realized. He would be nothing without that man and he was eternally grateful to Neal for giving him such an immense amount of trust and love. Their relationship wasn't typical, but it was more than enough for both of them. They love each other deeply and were truly happy in each others' presence. The trust factor had significantly built itself up as they grew closer and Peter couldn't imagine living a life without Neal—having a future without Neal. Neal, for as damaged and hurt as he is, is the man Peter would never trade for anyone else. He fell in love with Neal before he knew all of his deep, dark secrets and he fell for Neal even harder once he was let inside Neal's mind. He'd never change one thing about their relationship. He wouldn't even change the arguments they've had in the past. They were closer because they worked through a problem instead of letting it fester and become something irreparable.

Making things work with Neal is the most satisfying thing he's ever done in his lifetime and he'd never wish for anything else. Neal's smiles, laugh, bed head, and so much more made Peter love him. It had nothing to do with Neal being incredibly attractive. He considered that a perk, but he loved the man Neal was—loved everything that made him Neal. He loved the man who'd been hurt too many times, but came out of it with a heart of gold. Neal is a man who put effort into surviving and working through their problems. Peter would never be able to fall out of love with Neal. It was just impossible to even consider.

•◊•

El took Neal to an extremely beautiful house in a very nice looking neighborhood. He wondered how she'd done all of this. Upon walking through the threshold, Neal was awed by the beautiful interior of the house. It was a bright white with party decorations all around. Tara rushed over to him, giggling as she put a veil over Neal's head. He rolled his eyes, but laughed anyway. Both El and Tara took his hands, leading him into what appeared to be the living room. "El, this is perfect," he said quietly.

Rebecca was sitting on the couch with Ellen and Peter's mother. Neal was surprised to see Hannah. Last he knew, she wasn't sure she'd be able to come down. She got up from the couch and walked over to him, pulling him into a hug. "Hi, sweetheart. Surprise," she whispered, kissing his cheek.

He smiled. "Glad you could come, mom," he said in return. Hannah and Ellen were both given the honor of being in positions that allowed them to be called 'mom.' Neal wouldn't have called them mom if he didn't trust or love them. Ellen was next to give him a hug and she felt extremely overwhelmed all of a sudden. "Mom, you okay?" he asked her.

"Oh, honey," she said, sobbing into his chest. "I remember when you were so little. Now you're all grown up and settling into a happy life."

"I'm always going to be that little boy to you," he whispered, squeezing her gently. "And you'll always be my mom."

She laughed lightly, pulling back to wipe her eyes. She smiled up at him, resting her other hand on his chest. "I'm so proud of you and happy for you." She patted his chest. "All right, my dear. Let's get the party started before El goes crazy."

He chuckled, nodding. Ellen, Hannah, and Elizabeth went to retrieve the gifts they would be giving to Neal. He told them they didn't have to bring anything, but they all insisted. He went to sit on the couch beside Rebecca, smiling softly at her. "Hey."

"Hey," she said, smiling back. They hadn't been able to meet up for coffee like they'd planned. Neal's undercover operation got in the way of that, but he was glad she still came. "You look great, Neal—happy."

"I am happy," he said, laughing lightly. "Peter's the best thing that's happened to me. Well, him and Nicky." She nodded and he rested a hand on top of hers. "You're looking great, too, Rebecca. It's been a while."

She nodded again. "That, it has been. I missed you."

As much as Neal didn't want to say it, he missed her, too. She was one of the first people he'd spoken to in their group therapy and she understood him. "I missed you," he said, pulling her into an awkward hug on the couch. "Thanks so much for coming. I really appreciate it."

The ladies came back bearing gifts. He sighed and let go of Rebecca, watching them set the gifts down on the table in front of him. "Open 'em!" Tara said excitedly. He laughed, nodding.

The first gift he pulled closer was from Hannah. He smiled at her and began to open it. As soon as he pulled the top off of the box, his face went bright red. A camera snapped and the girls all giggled. "Wow. You all knew about this?"

"It felt like my obligation to give you some lingerie for the honeymoon because you're marrying my son. And El told me Peter likes lace." Neal raised an eyebrow, looking at Peter's ex-wife. She gave him a goofy grin and he just shook his head. There were at least three pairs of black, white, and red see-through underwear.

He closed the box, ducking his head as the women around him all giggled again. "Sincerely hoping there isn't more of that," he murmured.

"You may want to open mine next then," Tara said timidly. He gave her a look of disbelief. She was all too eager to buy him and Peter several packs of condoms, but he didn't realize she'd be into giving him kinky clothing as well. She giggled, grabbing her small box. She handed it to Neal and he sighed before opening it.

As soon as he opened it, he said, "Holy fuck." Now he preferred the lingerie Hannah had given him. Tara got him a bunch of thongs. They varied in color and only a few of them were actually solidly covered in the front. He looked at Tara, eyes wide and lips parted. Another camera snapped and he realized they bought him a bunch of things to embarrass him so far because they wanted pictures. She kissed his cheek and took his left hand. "Anything else I should be warned about?" he asked laughingly.

Tara leaned against his arm, resting her head on his shoulder. No one gave him a reason not to open any of the other gifts, so he continued. Ellen gave him a bottle of wine with two glasses provided, telling him that was only meant for the honeymoon. Rebecca gave him two fedoras—a black one and a white one. She said he could wear the black one to his private ceremony and the white one to his family ceremony because he was dressing differently for both. That was Elizabeth's doing. Alex, who'd been completely quiet in a corner of the room, gave him two cigars. She knew he didn't smoke, but suggested that maybe he and Peter could just once together.

His last gift was from Elizabeth. Inside of a box, he found a carved heart made of wood with his and Peter's names written very elegantly in the middle, the 'r' and 'l' at the ends of their names intertwining.

After he'd finished opening his gifts, he went through a round of hugging and thanking the girls. El promised that Diana would show up soon enough and that June was coming back to the city within the hour.

They all wanted to take individual pictures with Neal, making him show off his ring in each one. He kept the veil on, thinking it was funny atop his fedora. After they took 'formal' pictures with him, they took silly pictures. He was having a lot of fun making faces at them, getting kissed on the cheek or temple by them, and posing goofily with them.

By the time things began to settle down and they were all sipping wine, Neal managed to sneak away from the group of ladies and find a bathroom to lock himself in with his phone. He texted Peter, telling him, "I'm having a lot of fun. Will show you pictures later. Love you."

In a matter of minutes, Peter replied, "Sounds good. Love you, angel. Keep having fun!"

When he went back into the living room, he sat down between El and Tara, listening to them all talk about the wedding plans and what they were all wearing. Neal decided—with El's insistence and Peter's agreement—that blue was the theme of the wedding, so the ladies would be wearing bright blue dresses and the men would be wearing tuxes with ties the same shade of blue. Peter would be in black for both ceremonies and Neal would wear gray to the private ceremony and white to the family ceremony.

He realized, as he listened to them, that he wouldn't be here if he'd never met Peter, if he'd been too afraid to fall in love with Peter. Now more than ever, he was proud of himself for facing his fears, for opening himself up to Peter. He wouldn't be nearly this happy or in love with anyone else—that, he was damn sure of.

He was able to smile and actually feel happy. Peter would always be his greatest achievement in life, he believed, because Peter helped Neal break out of his shell and become the man he'd always wanted to be regardless of what'd been done to him. Rubbing his engagement ring, he knew for sure that Peter was right. He knew he deserved to be happy and knew he deserved Peter. He rarely found himself admitting to things like that, but he actually believed himself this time.