Chapter 55 – Reflections
Gail POV
I hope Jason can get here before the actual ceremony begins. Everything looks so beautiful. In four years that I have worked for Mr. Grey, I have never seen his parents home. It sure is beautiful. I knew Christian came from a privileged upbringing but didn't realize they were this wealthy. That doesn't change the fact that he has earned every penny of his vast fortune. He works hard and longer hours than anyone I have ever met. That is of course before Ana. When he had all of those floozy hard core subs around him, he would have his way with them and then disappear in his office until he "reloaded" as Jason would say, and then beckon them again. He had no use for them otherwise. He was such an unhappy young man. Then Ana magically appeared and he changed his personality, lifestyle and whole demeanor overnight. It has been wonderful to watch the transformation.
Everything is so beautiful. The grounds are breathtaking. The sound, boathouse, gardens, long lush backyard with the twinkling lights, flowers and the whole atmosphere is magnificent. It's just a perfect location for a wedding. I just know I am going to cry as I adore Ana and I am so happy for Christian.
"Hi baby," Jason slides in next to me. The ceremony is minutes away from starting. We are sitting on the end on the fifth row on probably what would be the brides side if there was assigned seating. He kisses my cheek and I have a tear that he gently wipes away. "Why are you crying, I got here as quick as I could." He winks at me as he knows damn well why I am crying.
"I am so happy for him Jason. Who would have ever thought he would change and be so happy? Have you seen Ana? I am dying to know how she looks."
"Of course. I just left her. She looks…Gail, she looks beautiful." He pauses as he says this. I know Jason is fond of her has she is of him. "She thanked me for everything and gave me a kiss on the cheek. She is a really sweet person you know that? I hope he always treats her the way he treats her now. She only deserves the best." I nod at him. He holds my hand and at the same time we look up to see Mr. Grey looking at us. He nods and smiles. It means a lot to both of us that he has sought us out. He looks so handsome and we both laugh watching him banter back and forth with Elliot who we both adore. He might be the only person that gets away with saying whatever he wants to say without the stare and fury. There is no doubt they are close.
We watch as the parents and wedding party makes their way down the aisle and I start crying again when I watch Grace walk down with Mr. Grey Sr. She is so overjoyed she is smiling and crying at the same time. When Jason sees her he mumbles how grateful he is that Elena Lincoln has not shown her ugly face as he wouldn't want Grace to deal with that. Every morning Jason has a call with Thompson, Grace's security who works for him and they review Grace's schedule. I would like a dime for every time he has said to Thompson, "Be cautious and careful. This is the boss's mom and he adores her so don't fuck it up." He knows that before Ana, no one but his mother had his heart. He worships her. She is such a wonderful person, who doesn't. But she is an amazing mom and if something ever happened to her, Christian wouldn't recover. His mom and his grandfather are both so dear to thim. He adores his little sister and his best friend is his brother, but, no doubt, it was his mother and grandfather until Ana that kept him somewhat human. I have missed most of the processional thinking about all this and only snap out of it when I see Sawyer slip in next to Jason. He looks stressed.
"Everything as it should be Luke?" I hear Jason ask Sawyer.
"Yes, she should be coming down the aisle any second. Reynolds is standing at the French doors just to be sure all is well. You sure you trust all these bozo's out here? I feel like I should be walking behind her." Luke points to the security that is surrounding the property.
"Relax my man; you've done a great job." Taylor reaches over and shakes Luke's hand.
The music indicating Ana is on her way starts and we all stand. After a minute or so she gets to where we are standing and she stops passing her bouquet into her other hand. How is it possible that she is even more beautiful than usual? Good lord she is a gorgeous bride. Jason was right. She looks right into my eyes and blows me a kiss. She mouths, "Thank you Gail for everything." I can't believe of all the people here, she stopped to say hello just to me. I see Jason and Luke look over at me and smile and the rest of the ceremony I am a wreck crying my eyes out. I love that sweet girl.
Andrea's POV
Wow, so this is how Mr. Grey grew up. This house is amazing. I can't imagine what his new house will look like, as I know he has more money than his parents or practically anyone for that matter. Everything looks beautiful; from the flowers at the end of each row; to the manicured yard and the gorgeous view of the sound. No wonder they decided to have the wedding here.
I am exhausted and can't wait for Mr. Grey to be away on his honeymoon. Right up until several hours ago he was calling me on my day off to get last minute work done. I am used to it but cramming all the last minute proposals and work in before he leaves for three weeks has been stressful; especially without an assistant. I am sitting with the other Grey House employees and at the same time we look up to see Mr. Grey looking at us. He smiles at me. Wow. Where is the camera when you need it?
"I swear I was just dreaming. Did I see Grey just smile our way?" Barney whispers to me. I laugh. He should talk as he is more bizarre than any other Grey employee and rarely smiles. He is usually in his own world and the only one that seems to understand him is Mr. Grey.
Ros leans over and tells Barney to cool it. Let there be no doubt that Ros is second in command and the only Grey House employee that can do what she wants. Mr. Grey totally treats her as his equal. They are more like partners. Her entire staff told me I have to tell them every detail as they were not invited. Cassie, her PA was so upset when I told her I wouldn't be able to email her any photos. She has a huge crush on Mr. Grey and was practically in mourning all week.
The processional has just started and I love seeing Mr. Trevelyan walking down the aisle with his wife. He winked at me when he walked past. I adore him. His wife looks lovely. I know from arranging Riley's arrival about her condition and it is just so sad.
I feel myself blush as I think about seeing that hottie Drew Reynolds. I know he is working tonight, but I haven't seen him yet. I see Taylor and oh my gosh that must be Gail Jones that I just saw him kiss. She is so pretty. She looks a bit older than him but he is clearly in love with her. I giggle when I see that crazy Elliot look my way and wink. My god he is such a flirt. He points to his watch and mouths "thirty minutes." He cracks me up. From what I could see at the GEH reception, he has it bad for Ana's roommate and maid of honor who just walked down the aisle looking like a goddess.
What a beautiful ceremony. I knew Mr. Grey was in love, but this wedding showed a whole different side of him. The way he stroked her face and just the way he looked when he saw her. And that kiss. So soft and sweet. It was like watching a fairy tale come true. We all stand up when they come back down the aisle to Etta James At Last. I have never seen him like this. He is euphoric and Miss Steele, I mean Mrs. Grey is beyond the most beautiful bride I have ever seen. I have tears running down my face. Shit, shit, shit. Pull it together Andrea. But my god he is so happy. This was such a beautiful wedding.
I can't believe it, the boss just stopped on his way down the aisle with Mrs. Grey and leaned in and said, "Thanks for working today. Now be sure to enjoy your time off and Reynolds is upfront if you feel like taking a walk later." He then winked at me. How does he know I have a crush on him? I think I am going to like the new married Mr. Grey.
Gramps POV
Ray Steele just handed his daughter off to my grandson. I remember handing off Grace to Carrick. You want to be happy but your heart is breaking. You spend your child's first twenty-two years protecting them and telling them to stay away from boys, because as a male you know damn good and well what they want to do with your daughter and then you find yourself publically handling them off to some guy that professes their love for her. I feel for the guy. But, I have no doubt in my mind that Christian is in love with Ana. I probably know my grandson better than anyone other than perhaps Elliot. Christian is a methodical young man and I know he is has found his lifelong love. She is a lovely young lady and seems to understand his quirks, appreciates his intelligence and drive for success and the best thing is that she seems to love him unconditionally. This kid has had my heart since the minute I laid eyes on him as a four year old. I almost weep when I see Christian's face at the first glimpse of his bride, and a beautiful bride she is. What a glorious day!
Elliott's POV
I have thrown up, drank a gallon of water and ran almost five miles and as long as I am moving I don't feel hung over or miserable. But standing still up here without moving I feel a little bit of last night creeping up on me. Christian and I walked side by side up to the altar. I can't believe my little bro is getting married. I am happy for him though. Ana is a sweetheart not to mention a complete babe. I I whisper to Christian that I saw Scott when he arrived off the bus and both he and Daniel were wrecked last night too. Evidently my Uncle Mike took a page out of my dad's playbook and lectured them about representing the family in the best light. Christ, I can recite that lecture by heart.
I smile watching my grandparents walk down the aisle together but at the same time I feel this lump in my throat. Gram's is just so up and down. She seems pretty good today but she is clearly deteriorating and I can't fucking stand it. I just wish I could make her be like she used to be. As close as Christian is to Gramps, I am equally as close to Grams. I use to spend hours on end with her when I was growing up and even brought her to show and tell when I was a little kid. She made the most amazing cookies called Sweet Dreams. She wouldn't give anyone the recipe that wasn't part of the family. They are amazing some sort of cinnamon and ginger chocolate chip thing. I could eat a dozen. I knew about a year ago something was wrong when she made a batch and they were terrible. It was like she missed half of the ingredients. God, I can't stand thinking about this shit.
Oh this is fucking hilarious. Riley and Amigo come down the aisle side by side in their bow ties. They are the best dogs and everyone is laughing watching them. Amigo is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I should probably say Kate is the best thing that has happened to me, and she is great, but I wouldn't say she is the best thing yet. We'll see what happens.
I see the Kavenaghs sitting in the middle row. Ethan is growing on me, although I don't think of him as long term for Mia. Mrs. Kavenagh smiles at me and I smile back. They are cool, not too overbearing or meddlesome. I enjoyed my trip with them, although I would bet a thousand dollars on it that Kate's dad cheats on her mom. It's the way he talks about women and how he flirts with them. I could be wrong, but call it guy's intuition. I haven't told Kate that, but something about him.
I see my mom and dad mosey down the aisle. Christ you would think they were the president and the first lady. My mom looks so fucking happy she is actually crying.
"She won't cry if I ever get married. She will be doing cartwheels." I whisper to Christian. I know my mom would be so flipping happy if I would settle down. Every time we meet for lunch or I stop by to hang out with her I hear the same lecture about being over thirty and how it is time to settle down. She hates that I have been with so many different women.
A minute later Ana's mom comes strutting down the aisle. I give it less than one year before my brother goes off on her big time. She is a major pain in the ass. She is extremely opinionated and she acts all interested in Ana then is a no show whenever Ana needs help with anything. She bugs the shit out of me and I like most people. We both like Ray. Who wouldn't as he is a great guy, but the monster-in-law not so much. I cough, "PITA." The quartet is playing rather loudly so I cough and say it again. "PITA" and I see Christian smirk and raise his eyebrow in agreement.
Mia comes prancing down the aisle. I love my little sister but she can be so annoying. She better marry one tolerant, rich SOB or she won't have a chance of a happy marriage. She is walking down the aisle like she is fucking Miss America. She is waving and stopping along the way. Christ Mia, move it along. This wedding isn't about you. She hugs Christian and when her hand is around Christian's back she flips me off so only I can see. She is still pissed off at me for asking if she is sleeping with Ethan. I don't give a shit if she likes my question or not. In her next life she can come back as a big brother and hopefully she will have a pain in the ass little sister just like her.
I see that Jose dude and he looks miserable. Both Kate and Ana have tried to convince me and Christian that Jose is just a friend. He has it pretty bad for Ana but I don't like the way he is always touching Kate when he sees her either. He is a real touchy feely guy and I told Kate to tell him to knock it off or I would and I won't be nice about it. I don't think Christian will put up with too much more either. He told me as much.
I look up to see Kate. "Holy balls." Oh fuck, the Reverend heard that. I apologize. Kate looks hot as hell. She has a great body and this dress she is wearing is sexy as hell. No damn way I am keeping my hands off her. In fact, the first break we get I am taking her to the boathouse and fucking her senseless. I tell Christian my plans and he leans back to whisper something to me.
"Will you shut the hell up?" As soon as he says it he starts to laugh and I laugh with him. I love to get under his skin.
The music starts up. I can't remember what it is called, but I have heard both my mom and Christian play it on the piano and it is a beautiful song. I rub Christian's shoulders as this mean his Ana is coming up next. At about the same moment that the music really gets to that in your gut moment, Ana and her dad show up around the corner. As she walks down the aisle I am mesmerized. While Kate looks hot, Ana looks absolutely gorgeous. Shit, I just said that out loud. Well it's true. Christian can't get pissed at me for saying that, because I am sure everyone here would agree with me. I am not an emotional guy, yet I feel like I could start crying like a baby any second. I cried when I had to put Champ down, and that was the first time I have cried since I was maybe eight years old. My dad use to tell me and Christian that boys don't cry and I adhered to that, But Christ you would have to be void of emotions not to have a lump in your throat right now. Christian is paralyzed watching Ana and I am really happy for them. Now I just need to get through the toast and best man speech.
Ana's POV
I am Mrs. Grey. I can't stop smiling. We have just hugged our parents and Christian's grandparents. His grandmother was so happy to see her veil on me she kissed me like five times. Grace was crying and she made me cry again. I am smiling down the aisle and Christian and I have shared little kisses as we walk down stopping for Christian to shake hands with the many people he knows. I don't know that many people but I look up and see Jose walking backwards and another photographer taking our pictures. When we finally make it to the French doors Christian pulls me into his arms, we are holding hands and our arms are in between our bodies with his one arm pulled tightly around my waist. He leans down and releases our arms and with both hands gently holding my neck he kisses me passionately. We are in our own world until we come up for air with our foreheads touching and smiling. We look up when we hear the camera and Jose takes our picture wrapped closely in each other's arms. It will be a wonderful picture as the moment captures us in our own universe.
As the guest are led to the tent the photographers take all the family pictures with the combined families and what feels like a million of Christian and I alone. I feel like the People magazine writer is glued to our hips and finally Christian calls Sam over. "Get this reporter off our back. They are here to write their story not be our god damn shadow." Christian looks at his watch as we are suppose to be in the tent for our first dance and the reception in ten minutes. Evelyn isn't letting us get off schedule.
"Sam, we only have a commitment for a story exclusive with People right? The photo rights are all Jose correct?" Christian asks Sam and he confirms this is accurate. Christian turns to me. "Baby, I am the proudest, happiest man in the world right now and I want to show you off. How would you feel if we just go to the front yard and let the press get some shots of us together?"
"What about Jose's ability to sell the photo's, won't that cut into his profits?" I am worried as we promised Jose exclusivity on selling the photos.
"Baby, we just literally gave him a million dollar shot. He has all the ceremony shots and no matter what with that photo he just took of us he will make a lot of money. And if it impacts his ability to make the money he planned on, I will make it up to him. If we go out there than the press will file their stories and go home for the night. The security can relax and we can probably get out of here for our honeymoon without being followed."
"Mrs. Grey, he is correct." Both Christian and I smile at each other when Sam says "Mrs. Grey. That's me! I giggle and Christian leans over to kiss me.
"Yes, Mrs. Grey, I am correct. If we do this we should do it real quick as in right now." Christian looks for my approval and I nod.
"But Sam, will you be sure that the press knows they can buy other photos from Jose?" I see Christian tense a bit. I probably should stop being so protective of Jose. I reach over and grab Christian's hand. "Let's go show the world that you my dear husband just made the best decision of your life!" I smile at him and he kisses me again.
Sam leaves to set up the parameters of the photo op and I see him talking to Jose who shakes his head in agreement. Taylor has been called over to make sure security is in place and Christian has told Sam to let the local Seattle media have the front row as he prefers to support the local press first.
We are guided through the house, and because of the exclusivity with People we can't answer questions but we can pose.
"Baby, thanks for doing this. It is the right thing to do to get these clowns out of here and I want to show you off. You are seriously the most beautiful woman in the world. I want the world to see you. Even if you weren't my wife, god I LOVE saying that, my wife, my wife, my wife…I would still think that."
I giggle. "Gee, this reminds me of last night." He looks at me confused. I reach up and whisper, "You gave me a similar rendition on the word vagina." He looks at me and smirks.
"I did? Sorry about that, I don't remember but my guess is that I was commenting on how that word is just strange. I love yours but what a crazy word. Speaking of, I can't wait…"
"Mr. and Mrs. Grey the press has been moved forward but they are behind a roped off area, remember no comments, just come out and let them see you. Well let's be honest they are mostly interested in seeing Mrs. Grey," Sam smiles. "By the way, Mrs. Grey, you are truly beautiful. Two minutes tops. Your security team has been moved in and we are ready." We walk through the house and Sam and Taylor open the front door.
"Sir, can I tell you I don't like this one bit?" Taylor whispers to Christian but I over hear him.
"It wasn't expected so it will be fine Jason. Relax. Besides we have more security than Obama ever has with him. Two minutes, they get their photos and then you can have your team move them out of here." Christian looks at me. "Do you need any help with that beautiful dress to get out the door?" I hand Taylor my bouquet that I am still holding and lift my dress from both sides. I start laughing when I see him hold the bouquet like he is holding a hot lava rock. Christian laughs too and tells him to place it down by the vestibule table. We watch Sam go outside and wait for our cue.
Julie Power's POV's
Sam from GEH has just come out with a stack of press releases in his hand and is walking towards the press. We are all practically salivating as we have been invited to get closer to the house. The security is tight and one of them helps me move to the front row spot and forces one of the TMZ reporters to back up. Evidently Christian Grey has a soft spot for the local press and not the national media.
"Okay ladies and gentleman, in a few minutes you will be given no more than two minutes to have a photo opportunity, no questions just photos. Mr. Rodriquez will have many more photos available to you if you have made arrangements with him he will be sending your pictures to each of you if you have properly remunerated him." Sam turns around and motions to the front door. Wow Christian Grey has just come out and next to him is his beautiful bride. I motion for my cameraman to get closer. I take quick mental notes on her dress. They stand together on the front porch of Grey's childhood home his arm around her and they are waving. He actually has a smile on his face, a huge smile and this may be the only time that anyone has ever seen him smile like this. He actually looks ridiculously happy. I can't say that on air. I have to pull myself together. He is even better looking when he smiles. He is super good looking in fact. Damn! All of the media are looking at each other almost in shock.
I am reporting from the home of Carrick and Grace Grey in Bellevue and as you can see it is official. Moments ago Christian Grey came out of his childhood home with his bride, Anastasia Steele, now Mrs. Christian Grey. She is absolutely stunning in a gown designed by Dana Kavanagh and as you can see they are very happy. A reporter just asked if this means they are indeed married and typical of Christian Grey, he looked irritated with the question as it is clear that she is in a bridal gown, that they are indeed married and they both pointed to their rings. The press release just handed out to us confirms that they were indeed married this evening and asks that we respect their privacy for the remainder of the evening as they celebrate with their family and friends. Again, Christian Grey is now a married man and a very happy one as you can see, as he has just pulled his wife into a very intimate embrace and kiss. Reporting live from Bellevue, Julie Powers Channe7 News.
"Okay let's go," I tell my cameraman. I have everything we need and I leave my card with the photographer as Channel 7 has agreed to pay him for the photos. My feet are killing me as I have been camped out here for two days. I see that other media members are headed out as well. No point in staying any longer as there is no way we will be given a heads up on where they are headed for their honeymoon. Next up for Mr. and Mrs. Grey will be baby watch as we media hounds won't let them alone until they produce.
Christian's POV
We are standing on the porch and the flashes and cameras are snapping left and right. Of course they are yelling out questions and we are ignoring them.
"You look so beautiful baby. I know I have said that over and over again, but I can't even tell you how breathtaking you are. I just wanted the world to see what a lucky SOB I am." I smile down and look at Ana. I knew she would look amazing but this is beyond my expectations. I touch her necklace. "This looks great with your dress. Thank you for wearing it."
"Thank you for picking out such a beautiful necklace." She smiles at me. I want to get my wife inside and dance with her. My wife, god I love saying that.
"You ready to go back inside and have our first dance and start the party?" I whisper in to Ana's ear.
"Yes I am. Christian, I love you so much!" And that is all I need for more encouragement and not giving a fuck who is watching, I take Ana's beautiful face in both my hands and press my lips against hers.
"I love you so much baby." And then I reach down and kiss her softly at first and then I nudge her mouth open with my tongue needing more, and kiss her like we are the only two people for miles and not with the eyes of the media world upon us.
We make our way back through the house and around back to the tent. The wedding party is being announced and we are next as we will enter the tent to our first dance. This means more than just a dance. It will tell everyone watching just how I felt as I fell in love with my wife. My beautiful, wonderful wife. I hear the lead singer from The Craig Lawrence Band announce:
"Now for the first time dancing as a married couple, please stand for Anastasia and Christian Grey."
I grab Ana's hand as we walk into the tent to all of our family and friends standing and clapping. I asked Moselle McKinney to sing this song for us, just like the original version done by Roberta Flack. I lead Ana to the center of the floor and hold her closely.
"Ladies and Gentleman I am so honored that Christian and Ana have asked me to come here and sing their very special song for them. Congratulations to you both."
The first time ever I saw your face I thought the sun rose in your eyes
And the moon and the stars were gifts you gave to the dark and endless skies
"You fell into my office and I never caught my breath after that baby," I whisper in her ear. "I looked into your eyes, your face and I never looked back. It was only you from that moment on."
The first time ever I kissed your mouth I felt the earth move in my hands
Like the trembling heart of a captive bird
That was then at my command
My Love
"Fuck the paperwork." Ana whispers in my ear. And we both laugh. I bend down and kiss her slowly as we both recall that first kiss in the elevator. So full of passion and that kiss sealed the deal for me, even if I didn't know it at the time. We are moving across the dance floor and I am holding her closely as we gracefully move to the music.
The first time ever I lay with you
I felt your heart so close to mine
And I knew our joy would fill the earth
And last til the end of time
"Thank you baby for letting me be your first and only forever. I will always treasure the first time you let me take you but the first time we made love at the Fairmont will stay in my heart forever and like the words said, I felt your heart so close to mine baby." I whisper to her and kiss her again as we spin around the floor. "Thank you Ana, I love you so much baby."
The first time ever I saw your face
Your face
Your face
Your face
First of all thank you so much for the many reviews and great feedback after the wedding ceremony almost 70 reviews not including PM's! You all made my weekend!
So I thought we would have only one more chapter but, we still need the rest of the reception (Elliot's speech, Christian's dance with his mom, sister and Grandmother, Ana and her dad, the garter, the cake cutting) so this is not the last chapter after all. I got a bit winded during this section so couldn't wrap it up.
For all of you I am doing one chapter (only) of the honeymoon, probably the first day and night in England. You have all been so supportive, that I will try to give you just a bit more. Then I will need to end this story as we have taken it as far as we can go! Plus, I didn't put this much effort into my own wedding! This has been exhausting! But….I am still thinking about what will be next. You have all been so encouraging, that I want to give you more! Thank you again!
Lilly
