A/N: Hello Richonners! I apologize for not updating sooner. I hope this final chapter is worth the wait! Without further ado…
Chapter 15: Paix Amour Bonheur
3 Years Later…
Rick drove around the crowded parking lot trying to find an empty spot. Downtown Tannon Falls was bustling with activity as people completed holiday shopping and took part in the festivities in the middle of town square.
The annual holiday market was open, which meant vendors were selling homemade products, unique crafts, and delicious baked goods. He could smell the aroma of sweet potato pies and sugar cookies wafting through the air and it made his mouth water.
A winter wonderland was set up for people all of ages to enjoy, including a life-size gingerbread house where children could create ornaments and wreaths, Santa's workshop complete with reindeer and elves, and an ice-skating rink. The holiday season had become Rick's favorite time of the year. He loved all of the excitement and joy that came along with it.
He finally found an open spot and pulled in, as he spoke with his father on the phone.
"How's work going?" Richard asked his son.
"It's good, dad. I'm enjoying what I'm doing," Rick replied.
"The force is lucky to have a good, honest man like you, Rick. They needed some new blood to erase the shame Morgan Jones caused."
Rick nodded to himself, recalling the fall out of Morgan's actions a few years earlier.
"Jones had a lot of faults and he paid dearly for them," Rick sighed. "In the end, he made the right decision to move away with his daughter. He hasn't shown his face in Tannon Falls since it all went down."
"Yeah, well it's for the best," Richard asserted. "He disgraced himself and squandered his duty to protect and serve his community. Helping Merle Dixon could have had a devastating impact on our family and the people of that town."
"I couldn't have predicted how it all ended. It made me realize I belonged back in law enforcement, protecting this place, and keeping my family safe. Dixon's operation may have fallen apart, but there are always more just like him. Working with TFPD is much different than what I did in King County but even more rewarding," Rick stated reflectively.
"I'm glad it's meaningful for you…just be careful," Richard reminded him.
"Always," Rick assured his father.
"Good, son. Listen, I know you're busy, so I'll let you go. I'm looking forward to seeing you in a few days," Richard responded.
"We can't wait," Rick smiled. "Hey, daddy…thanks again for volunteering to watch RJ. Michonne is going to be so thrilled with my gift."
"Are you kidding? I wouldn't miss the opportunity to spend some extra time with my little guy," Richard chuckled.
He laughed at his father's eagerness to babysit his only grandson. "Ok, I'll see you soon."
Rick walked into Martha's Bakery and was immediately consumed with the sweet smell of fresh baked goods.
He noticed the owner standing behind the counter. Her salt-and-pepper hair was up in a tight bun and she wore a green apron with an embroidered snowman over her sweater and jeans. Her rosy cheeks dimpled as she smiled at him.
"Hey detective, I'll be right with you," she greeted him as he took his place in line behind a couple of other customers. He waited patiently until it was his turn, nodding at a few of the patrons who were enjoying treats at the few tables in the charming establishment.
After a few minutes, he reached the front counter.
"Okay darlin', what can I get for you?" the woman asked.
"Hey there, Martha. I need to put in an order for Christmas. I'm going to need a chocolate ganache cake, a sweet potato cake with cream cheese frosting, and two each of the apple and pecan pies," Rick rattled off.
Martha listened attentively as she wrote down Rick's order. "Okay, you got it. You're lucky you got in here when you did. Orders are piling up for the holidays and I know that beautiful wife of yours would be unhappy if she didn't get her favorite chocolate cake," she grinned.
"You're absolutely right about that," Rick chuckled. "I like to stay on her good side, so thanks for helping me out," he joked.
Martha laughed again, shaking her head. "Anything else I can get you? I got some apple fritters that are just about ready. They'll be nice and hot for you," she suggested.
Rick nodded, "Yeah…I'll take a dozen," he smiled.
"Coming right up. I'll put a little extra cinnamon on them just for you," Martha smiled, winking at him.
Rick chuckled and took a seat in one of the empty chairs near the front counter, while she went to complete his order. He took out his phone and scrolled through his email until he heard the ringing of the bell attached to the front door, indicating the arrival of a new customer. He looked up to see Daryl walking inside. They exchanged a cordial nod as Daryl walked to the front counter.
Seeing Daryl always forced Rick to recall the aftermath of Merle's death. Daryl was angry for a long time, not only at Rick but with himself and his departed brother. Still, in the end, he had to accept that the outcome was inevitable. Merle was out of control and Rick had no choice but to do what he did. Daryl understood that, however he and Rick were never able to form a real relationship. The quiet man mostly kept to himself, rarely engaging with anyone outside of work. However, that changed when Sasha Williams came to the auto shop to have some work done on her vehicle. It was an unlikely pairing, but the two of them connected. Perhaps it was the fact that they recognized a kindred spirit in one another, both preferring solitude to actual human interaction, and both a little rough around the edges. Sasha continued to come to the shop for regular car maintenance and eventually her and Daryl grew closer.
Rick found out about the couple by happenstance when Daryl came to the precinct to take Sasha to lunch. It was a surprise, but he was thrilled that they both had found someone to end their lonely existence. God knows his life had changed for the better and he wanted everyone to experience that kind of happiness.
"All right, here you go. Enjoy!" Martha announced, pulling Rick from his thoughts.
"Thank you, Martha. I'll be back in a couple of days to pick up my Christmas order," he said, taking the box of piping hot apple fritters.
"We'll have it all ready for you. Have a wonderful day, Detective Grimes," Martha beamed.
"Same to you," he nodded before turning to walk towards the door.
Suddenly, he stopped and looked back, "Hey Daryl…Merry Christmas."
Daryl glanced at Rick, gifting him with a rare smile, "Merry Christmas, Rick."
As she continued her phone conversation with Tameka, Michonne parked her SUV outside of Little Wonders Preschool. She smiled as she looked at the front of the of the white cottage-style school building. The children and teachers had set up an impressive display of Santa in his sleigh with all 9 reindeer.
"So, you're getting ready to start your fourth year. That's exciting!" Michonne exclaimed.
"Yeah, one more year and then hopefully it's off to law school at NYU," Tameka replied.
Michonne smiled, checking her appearance in the mirror on the visor. "You'll get in. I'm sure of it."
"Fingers crossed," Tameka responded.
"On another note, tell me about this new guy you're seeing," Michonne prodded.
"His name is Anthony. He's an engineering major. He's so sweet Michonne, you would love him."
Michonne could hear the joy in the young woman's voice and it made her smile. "That's great. You know, my daddy was a mechanical engineer. They're good people," Michonne joked, provoking a laugh from Tameka.
"We're actually planning on moving in together in a couple of months when my lease is up. It will save me some money. This New York rent is off the charts."
"It sure is," Michonne agreed. "How does Delilah feel about that?"
"Mom is cool with it. She met Anthony the last time she visited, and she really likes him."
"Good! Well, I have to pick up RJ, so we'll talk soon. Come visit us sometime in Georgia," Michonne requested.
"I will. I love New York, but there's nothing like home. Say hello to RJ and Rick for me."
"Will do. Talk to you later, sweetie," Michonne said, disconnecting the call and walking into the school.
Michonne strolled down the wide hall until she reached room number 5. Lori Shepard, her son's preschool teacher greeted her with a smile as she walked inside.
"Mommy!" RJ beamed, running up to Michonne and wrapping his short arms around her legs.
She lifted her son into her arms and ran her fingers through his wild, sandy brown curls, then proceeded to shower his light caramel face with kisses, causing him to squirm. She laughed at his antics.
"Hey buddy," she smiled, looking into his big brown eyes. "Are you happy to see me?"
Before he could answer, Lori walked up to them, rubbing RJ's back as Michonne held him. "Hello Mrs. Grimes. I'm surprised to see you. RJ said his father was picking him up today."
Michonne internally cringed at the disappointment lacing the thin, lanky brunette's voice. The woman's attraction to her husband annoyed her to no end.
"Daddy got called into work, baby," Michonne said, choosing to ignore Lori and address only her son. "But guess what?"
"What?!" RJ asked excitedly, gently twisting a couple of his mother's long locs around his fingers.
"We are going to run a few errands then take daddy some dinner. How does that sound?"
"Yes!" RJ exclaimed shooting his tiny fists in the air.
Michonne and Lori chuckled at the boy's excitement.
"Okay, go grab your jacket and backpack," Michonne instructed, planting her son back on his feet.
Her and Lori smiled awkwardly at one another as they waited for RJ to grab his things. A couple of minutes later, he returned, tugging on his mother's arm and ready to make a hasty exit.
"I'm ready, mommy. Look what I made," he declared, showing Michonne a decorated gingerbread house, displayed on a piece of cardboard covered in silver foil.
"Wow, this is awesome!" Michonne exclaimed, examining the project. "This will make a nice addition to our Christmas decorations."
RJ smiled widely, pleased with his mother's approval of his creation.
"Bye RJ. I'll see you in a couple of weeks after holiday break," Lori commented, bending down to his height. "Say hello to your daddy for me."
It took everything in her for Michonne not to roll her eyes. Instead, she presented the woman with a superficial smile and led her son out of the classroom.
Michonne watched RJ's face light up as she unbuckled him from his booster seat. "Come on, baby. This is our last stop and then we can grab some food for daddy."
"Hi Michonne," a couple of women greeted her as she and RJ walked into the building. They were greeted with the sounds of young people laughing and engaging in various activities throughout the large open space.
"The new sign outside looks great," Michonne said as Enid greeted her from behind the desk sitting at the side of the entrance.
"Hey Michonne. Hi RJ! Yes, they just delivered it this morning. I'm glad you like it," the young woman returned.
Michonne smiled. "Is Tim around?"
"Yeah," Enid nodded. She picked up the phone on her desk and dialed his extension. "Hey, Michonne is here to see you," she stated into the receiver.
"Busy day?" Michonne inquired.
"Yeah…hold on a second," Enid said, holding up her finger before answering the ringing phone. "Kaley and Kyle's House, how can I help you?" she asked the caller.
Michonne smiled, looking up to see Tim coming out of his office. He smiled in return as he laid eyes on his friend and her son.
"That's my brother and sister," RJ proclaimed to Tim, pointing up to the portraits of the smiling, brown-eyed boy with dark curls and green-eyed girl with auburn pigtails.
"Yes, I know," Tim grinned, greeting RJ with a high five, amused that the little boy pointed out his siblings every time he visited the community center.
He kissed Michonne's cheek. "Hi sweetie, I didn't know you were coming in today."
"Yeah, I just wanted to see how things are going and give you some news," Michonne said, squeezing his shoulder.
"Mommy, can I go play?" RJ asked softly.
"Sure, baby. You want to do arts & crafts or check out the trampoline?"
RJ twisted his face as if he were deep in thought. Michonne, Tim, and Enid laughed at the adorable boy's serious expression.
"How about a little of both?" Enid suggested, coming from behind the desk. "Come on RJ, I'll join you while your mommy and Tim talk."
"Thanks Enid," Michonne smiled at her.
"Okay, what's up?" Tim asked, leading Michonne into his office.
Michonne glanced at the pictures of him and Jessie displayed on his tidy desk, one of the couple at a ski resort they visited last winter and one from a trip they took to Montego Bay over the summer.
"I just want to let you know that I'm taking a few weeks off. Between running things here and staying involved with my gallery, I'm exhausted," she exhaled.
"Of course, you are," Tim nodded. "You've been working so hard. You deserve a break. I've got things handled here," he reassured her.
"Thank you. I'm happy to hear that," she smiled weakly.
Tim noticed how tired she looked. She was beautiful as always, but her apparent weariness caused him concern.
"Michonne, is everything all right?" he questioned, gazing at her through warm hazel eyes.
"Yes, everything is fine. I just need some time to rest, that's all," she shrugged. "I'll be back at it in a few weeks."
He nodded in understanding. "Take all the time you need."
"Okay, well I'm gonna get going. I promised RJ we would swing by the station and drop off dinner to his daddy. Then I need to go home and start preparing the house for Christmas. We're hosting this year."
"Sounds nice," Tim grinned. "Hey, give my regards to Rick."
"Of course," she smiled. "What have you got planned for the holiday?"
"I'm taking Jessie back to King County to spend Christmas with my parents."
"Have a nice time," she grinned.
"Yeah, thanks. Merry Christmas, Michonne."
"Merry Christmas Tim. Give my best to your family," she smiled.
"Okay pumpkin, let's go," Michonne said, interlocking one hand with RJ's and carrying a bag of food in the other, as they entered the police station.
"Hey, Mrs. Grimes. Good to see you. Rick is in his office," a blonde female officer welcomed her from the front desk.
"Thanks," Michonne nodded, as her and RJ walked past the desk. They continued through the front lobby toward the narrow hallway where Rick's office was located, coming across Sasha and Abe.
"Hi, Mrs. Grimes," they greeted her.
"Hello," Michonne smiled warmly.
"Hey, bud. Did you get bigger since the last time I saw you?" Abe playfully asked RJ, looking the boy up and down.
"No, I was just here last week," RJ replied, rolling his eyes, and prompting a hearty laugh from the husky ginger-haired officer.
"I don't know…I think you may have grown on me. Anyhow, come see me in a minute. I've got a treat for you," Abe informed the boy.
"Okay!" RJ beamed, a smile spreading across his face.
Sasha, Abe, and Michonne laughed at how quickly RJ changed his tune at the mention of treats.
"You're spoiling him, Officer Ford," Michonne quipped.
"Aw, he's a good boy. He deserves it," Abe responded, ruffling RJ's soft curls.
Michonne knew it was more to it than that. She was aware that both Sasha and Abe felt guilty for how they mishandled the situation with Detective Jones and his daughter. Abe especially felt responsible for the predicament which put Michonne and an unborn RJ in danger. If he had taken her and Rick serious, Elaina wouldn't have had the opportunity to attack her at Glenn's house. Nevertheless, being the forgiving person she was, Michonne assured the officers it was all water under the bridge. She had her husband and her son and that's all that mattered.
"See you in a minute big guy," Abe stated before continuing down the hall with Sasha.
Michonne slowly opened Rick's office door, careful not to make too much noise in case he was on a phone call. However, RJ didn't get the hint and barged through it, eager to see his father.
"Hi daddy!" RJ happily shouted, stalking over to Rick's desk.
"Hey buddy," Rick smiled, standing and scooping his son up into his arms.
"Guess what…we made gingerbread houses in school and I decorated mine with white frosting and green and red gumdrops and Tyler put some of his frosting in my hair and Miss Lori had to wash it out…oh and then mommy took me to see Tim and I played on the trampoline and colored pictures with Enid," RJ rattled off, barely taking a breath.
Rick and Michonne laughed at his enthusiasm.
"Slow down bud," Rick advised, kissing RJ's cheek. "It sounds like you had a fun day."
RJ shook his head in response.
"Hi baby," Michonne greeted her husband, as he wrapped his free hand around her waist and kissed her.
"Hello gorgeous. This is a welcome surprise," Rick noted, kissing her once more. "What brings you by?"
"I figured you would forget to eat, so we brought you dinner," she said, holding up the bag in her hand. "It's meatloaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables and a double fudge brownie for dessert."
"Mmm, sounds good. Thank you, darlin'," Rick smiled at her appreciatively as she placed the bag on his desk.
"RJ was disappointed you couldn't pick him up from school," Michonne added.
"I'm sorry munchkin. Daddy had to come into work," Rick informed his son.
RJ smiled and fiddled his fingers through his father's thick curls, before kissing his bearded cheek. "It's okay, daddy. You're catching the bad guys."
Michonne and Rick chuckled at their precocious little boy.
"He wasn't the only one disappointed," Michonne continued.
Rick sighed heavily, knowing his wife was talking about Lori Shepard.
"Well, she doesn't even try to hide it anymore," Michonne retorted.
Rick placed RJ on his feet and wrapped Michonne in his arms.
"Can we not talk about Olive Oyl right now?" he whispered into her ear.
She shuddered as his warm breath brushed against her neck. His lips slowly trailed along her jawline and she moaned softly in response. Holding his intense blue stare, she smirked and nodded in affirmation.
"Ouch, detective. I can think of a few names for her, but that one takes the cake," she smiled.
Rick grinned, gently kissing her forehead as he held her closer.
"Hey detective," Abe said, tapping on the partially open door.
"What's up, Ford?" Rick replied.
"I came to get my little buddy. I promised him a treat," Abe answered.
"Can I go, daddy?" RJ asked, looking up to his father.
"Yeah…go ahead," Rick nodded, still gripping Michonne.
After RJ and Abe closed the door behind them, Rick wasted no time, trailing wet kisses down Michonne's neck. He unbuttoned her wool peacoat and slid it off her before tossing it on a nearby chair.
Lifting her onto his desk, he resumed his affections, sucking on her smooth skin. She tilted her head, giving him more access and purred as his strong hands palmed her supple backside.
"I missed you," he whispered, before gently biting down on her exposed flesh.
"You just saw me this morning," Michonne giggled, running her hands over his biceps.
"Yeah, I know…it's been too long," he noted, capturing her lips in a hungry kiss. He sensually massaged her tongue with his own, making her moan as she savored the sweet taste of the peppermints he'd consumed earlier.
Snaking his fingers under her lavender cashmere sweater and lightly stroking the small of her back, he elicited soft sighs from her as his touch ghosted across her skin.
"You're so naughty," she smirked as they came up for air.
"You love it," he grinned.
"I do," she nodded, draping her arms around his neck, and seductively tugging on his bottom lip with her teeth.
"Mmm, careful darlin'. You're gonna make me bend you over this desk and have my way with you," he warned her, squeezing her ass tighter.
Michonne instantly felt herself getting wet. He was right, she loved his naughty side just as much as she loved his tenderness.
"I really wish you would," she breathed as he dipped his face into the opening of her sweater and traversed his tongue across her cleavage.
Suddenly, their lustful play was interrupted when Abe knocked on the door. Groaning, Michonne slid off the desk as Rick broke away from her and opened the door.
"I'm back!" RJ shouted, bursting through the door with a bag of popcorn and two candy bars. "Did you miss me?"
"We sure did!" Rick exclaimed, matching his son's excited tone.
"Remember, RJ…those snacks are for after dinner," Abe reminded him.
"Okay, thanks Officer Ford," the boy replied.
"I'll see you later detective and you too, Mrs. Grimes," Abe said, tipping his hat to Michonne.
"Happy Holidays, Officer Ford," she returned.
"Same to you, ma'am," Abe replied before leaving out of the office.
"RJ, tell your dad goodbye. We need to get going," Michonne instructed him while putting on her coat.
"Bye daddy," RJ whined, hugging Rick's leg.
"I'll see you later bud. Be good for your mama," Rick stated, patting RJ's back.
Michonne walked over to him and ran her fingers through his beard before gently kissing him. "We'll pick this up later," she whispered into his ear.
"I can't wait," he grinned. "Thanks for bringing me dinner, sweetheart."
"Anytime, cowboy," she winked. "Be good."
He chuckled, shaking his head as he leaned against his desk and watched them leave.
Christmas Eve…
Rick, Michonne, and RJ traipsed around their five-bedroom home, putting the finishing touches on their holiday décor.
Michonne draped a shimmery gold tablecloth over the large formal dining table and placed a large poinsettia centerpiece in the middle. The place settings were complete with the fine china and antique silverware reserved for special occasions.
Rick adorned the mantle above the marble fireplace with gold garland, cinnamon clove scented candles and their expansive collection of nutcrackers.
RJ's gingerbread house sat in the middle of the dessert table surrounded by an assortment of red, gold, and green miniature glass Christmas trees, along with the pies and cakes Rick ordered from the bakery.
"I think we're done," Michonne smiled, hugging Rick's waist as they all stood and admired the impressive balsam spruce standing tall in their formal living room.
The tree was beautifully decorated with white lights and cream and champagne gold ornaments to compliment the ivory leather furniture in the room.
"Not yet," RJ announced, holding up two crystal butterfly shaped ornaments, one with a picture of Kyle in the center and the other holding Kaley's picture.
Rick lifted RJ into his arms and walked him over to the tree. "Hang them right here buddy," Rick said, pointing to a small empty space on the tree.
RJ carefully placed the ornaments on the tree and examined them, before turning to his father with a puzzled look on his face.
"What is it, RJ?" Rick asked.
"Can my brother and sister see us from heaven?"
Rick looked at Michonne, who walked over to them and placed her hand on RJ's back.
"Yeah, they're always with us," Rick responded. "We carry them right here," he said, placing his hand over RJ's heart.
The little boy nodded, although he didn't fully understand what his father meant.
"Are you ready to see your family tomorrow?" Michonne asked her son as they went to sit on the sofa.
"Yes!" RJ replied joyfully. "I can't wait to show Allie my toys."
"I'm sure she'd like that," Michonne smiled at RJ, before looking at Rick. "The guestrooms are all set with clean linen and towels. I figure Shane, Andrea, and Allie can take the basement. That way they can have their own bathroom and there's more room for a two-year-old to run around. Mom and dad can take the bedroom on the third floor."
"Sounds good," Rick nodded. "Thanks for agreeing to host, sweetheart. I know you've been overwhelmed with work. You seem a little tired lately."
She smiled at her husband, appreciating his concern. "I'm fine, baby. Besides, I'm taking some time off at the community center. Tim can handle things while I'm gone, and Aaron is on top of things in Atlanta."
"Oh…I didn't realize you were taking an extended break from the center. That's great. RJ and I will love having you home," he smiled, leaning over to kiss her.
"I'm looking forward to spending more time with my boys," she smiled, fluffing their son's hair. "Okay, RJ it's time for bed. Santa doesn't visit homes where children stay up all night."
"Your mommy is right. Come on buddy, I'll tuck you in," Rick said, rising from the sofa.
"Wait, we need to make sure the chimney is clear so Santa can fit," RJ urgently expressed.
Michonne smiled, thinking of how much RJ reminded her of Kyle.
Rick walked over to the fireplace, opened the glass doors, and peeked his head under the opening, pretending to examine the chimney.
"All clear," he stated after a moment.
Michonne couldn't contain her happiness as she watched Rick appease their son. He was such a wonderful father. It melted her heart.
"Yay!" RJ shouted, hopping up and down. "Mommy don't forget to sit out the chocolate chip cookies I made and a glass of milk," he reminded Michonne.
"I'm on it, little man," she assured him. "We'll see you in the morning, sweetie." She kissed his chubby cheeks before Rick lifted him on his shoulders and carried him up the stairs.
Later that night, after wrapping gifts, Rick and Michonne snuggled under a plush blanket on the sofa, sipping hot chocolate. Mariah Carey's version of O Holy Night played softly in the background as they admired the glowing lights on the Christmas tree.
"Big day tomorrow," Rick said, nuzzling his nose into Michonne's neck and inhaling the vanilla scent of her body cream.
"Yes, it is. Christmas and our anniversary…lots of excitement," she chuckled.
"Mm-hmm," he nodded, smooching her lips.
"Before I forget, I spoke with Maggie earlier today. She said Hershel is disappointed we won't be joining them at the farm this year, but he's invited us to come out in a few weeks. He's dead set on teaching RJ how to tend to the animals," she laughed, setting her and Rick's mugs on the glass end table.
"I'm sure RJ will love that," Rick grinned, pulling her onto his lap.
She draped her arm around the back of his neck and trailed her fingers through his silky tresses.
"Speaking of the Greenes, guess what I found out today?" he remarked, hardly able to contain his grin.
"What?" she asked expectantly.
"Glenn is finally going to propose to Maggie tomorrow. He's gonna do it during Christmas dinner," he smirked.
Michonne gasped and covered her mouth in excitement. "Oh my god, Maggie is going to be so happy!"
"I know, it's long overdue," Rick nodded.
Michonne started laughing and he looked at her quizzically. "What's so funny?"
"Glenn should have known better than to tell you. You can't hold water," she snickered.
"It's not like I spilled the beans to Maggie," he shrugged. "You're my wife…I don't keep secrets from you."
"I appreciate that, love." She affectionately looked into his eyes and gifted him with a delicate kiss. "I won't tell."
The next morning…
Michonne glanced over to the clock on her nightstand. It was 7:00 a.m. and the light from the sun was just starting to peek through the blinds on the window. Rick gripped her from behind and drew her closer while placing gentle kisses to her bare shoulder.
"Mmm," he moaned, softly nipping at her silky skin. "Merry Christmas and Happy Anniversary Mrs. Grimes."
Michonne smiled over her shoulder. "Same to you, Mr. Grimes."
Rick sensually trailed his tongue across the back of her neck before turning her over and settling between her legs. He gave her that heart stopping stare he knew was sure to turn her on and slowly ran his fingers up her smooth thighs.
Michonne bit down on her bottom lip, attempting to stave off her arousal. "Slow your roll, handsome. As much as I enjoy making love to you first thing in the morning, we've got work to do and RJ will be up soon."
"I'll make it quick," he smirked.
Michonne shot him a disbelieving look, knowing 'quick' wasn't his style. Whether he was making love or fucking, he always took his time in pleasing her.
"Nope, not gonna happen," she grinned.
"Michonne…you're killing me," he groaned. "Daddy wants a taste," he said, licking his lips.
Michonne rolled her eyes, knowing resistance was futile, especially as he snuck his fingers into her panties, making her moan when he penetrated her wet center.
"Okay, we can make some time," she panted as her eyes fluttered shut.
Following their early morning escapades, Rick and Michonne got started on breakfast and prep work for their Christmas meal. A little while later, RJ joined them, looking ridiculously cute in his elf pajamas and slippers. They smiled cheerfully as they watched him open his gifts, including the Black Panther pajamas that he insisted on changing into at that very moment.
While RJ went upstairs, Michonne handed Rick his gift. He smiled at her as he took the silver, square-shaped box and sat on the sofa. He undid the shiny green bow and lifted the top as Michonne watched with anticipation.
"Wow, sweetheart," he exclaimed, holding up the steel Cartier watch.
"Do you like it?" Michonne beamed, snuggling next to him.
"It's really nice. Thank you, baby."
"I had it engraved," she informed him.
He turned over the case back to read the inscription…To my forever love. ~M
"I love it," he said softly, drawing her close for a kiss.
"Your turn." He handed Michonne a small gold box.
She opened it and removed a set of keys. Rick laughed at her confused expression.
"What are these for?" she asked, quirking a perfectly arched eyebrow.
"These," he said, taking the keys from her hand and jingling them, "are for your new gallery downtown."
Michonne's jaw dropped as her brain quickly tried to process his words.
"Rick…you didn't," she said softly, trying to contain her emotions.
"I did. The space is yours. I made the final payment last month. You can open after the new year," he smiled.
"Oh my god, baby…thank you," she exclaimed, straddling him and cupping his face in her hands.
She stared at him, getting lost in his oceans. "I love you," she whispered.
"Darlin', the feeling is absolutely mutual," he said, kissing the inside of her wrist.
A few hours later, the soulful voice of Nat King Cole added to the holiday cheer as he serenaded the Grimes clan with The Christmas Song. Rick, Michonne, and RJ were joined around the table by Richard, Anna, Shane, Andrea, and a rambunctious Allie, as they dined on prime rib, Chantilly potatoes, roasted Brussel sprouts with bacon and honey-glazed carrots.
"Michonne, this dinner is amazing! I have to get your recipe for these potatoes, they're delicious," Andrea complimented.
"Thanks, Drea. I'll email it to you," Michonne smiled.
Rick and Shane shared a subtle look, both pleased that their wives had become so close over the past three years. Andrea had been a big help after RJ's tumultuous birth, even staying in Tannon Falls for a week once Anna returned to work. It turns out, the women had a lot in common, both being free-spirited only children with strong personalities. Much to their husbands' delight, they managed to form a strong bond, which made these family visits far more enjoyable.
"Yes, my Michonne was always a fabulous cook," Anna boasted.
"Ma," Michonne groaned.
"Oh, stop being so modest! My baby can burn, isn't that right Rick?" Anna declared emphatically.
Rick chuckled at Michonne's embarrassment. "Yes, ma'am. I'm never unsatisfied," he grinned impishly at Michonne.
Michonne eyes widened as she glared at him, silently chastising him for his veiled comment.
He laughed even harder. "Everything is wonderful, baby," he remarked, giving her a chaste kiss.
"Well, I'm ready for dessert," Richard announced, pushing his empty plate away.
"You sure you have room daddy after that second helping?" Shane teased.
"I most certainly do," Richard assured him. "What do you say, grandbabies…you ready for some sweets?" he asked, looking at RJ and Allie.
"Yes, Papa!" RJ shouted, while Allie shook her head making her soft golden curls fall into her face.
"Okay, we can have dessert in a moment, but first I want to make a toast," Rick said, raising his glass. He looked over to Michonne and gently caressed her back. "I want to say happy anniversary to my beautiful wife. You're my best friend, my biggest cheerleader…my everything. I love you, baby…now and always."
Michonne grasped his face with both hands as tears welled in her eyes. "I love you, too. Happy anniversary, my love," she said, kissing him softly.
"Happy Anniversary!" their family offered collectively as they clinked their glasses.
"Y'all sure know how to live life to the fullest, getting married on Christmas is really meaningful," Shane added.
"It sure is," Andrea added. "Your winter wonderland wedding was absolutely beautiful and Michonne you looked like a princess."
"Thank you," Michonne smiled. "A Christmas wedding has been my dream since I was a little girl."
"And I always give her whatever she wants," Rick interjected, kissing his wife once more.
"Oh boy," RJ groaned, palming his face.
They all broke out in laughter at his dramatic response to seeing his parents kissing, yet again.
"Enough about us, mama how are things going since you've moved to King County?" Michonne asked.
Anna and Richard shared a loving smile. "Things have been wonderful! I'm so happy I made the move."
"That makes two of us," Richard proclaimed, sweetly kissing Anna's hand. "Now, about that dessert…" he laughed.
"Okay, okay…it's coming. Drea, do you mind putting on a pot of coffee?" Michonne asked.
"Not at all, babe. Nothing like freshly brewed java and dessert," she smiled.
"I'm really happy that you found one another," Michonne said to Anna and Richard as she started plating slices of pie and cake.
"We have you and Rick to thank for that," Anna reminded her.
Rick and Michonne exchanged a smile, both pleased that their parents would no longer be lonely, despite the awkwardness of potentially being spouses and stepsiblings.
"Love is a beautiful thing, isn't it?" Rick declared, winking at his wife. She returned the gesture.
"I love you mommy and daddy!" RJ chimed in.
"We love you too, munchkin," Rick and Michonne responded to their son.
"I love my whole family," RJ continued then proceeded to go around the room, offering hugs to everyone.
Later that night, after the kids were tucked into bed and the adults retired to their respective spaces, Michonne led Rick to their bedroom and closed the door.
"I've been waiting to get you alone," she stated, wrapping her arms around his neck and passionately kissing him.
"Mmm," he moaned, breaking their kiss, and naughtily grinning at her. "Is that so?"
"Yes, and not for the reason you think," she chuckled. "Although, I suppose it isn't a bad idea."
Rick smiled, running his fingers over the lace of her curve-hugging red dress. He gently released her high bun, causing her hair to fall freely around her face. "You're beautiful," he whispered, before tilting her chin up and capturing her lips.
Michonne took a moment to slow her breathing. He was having his usual affect on her and she needed to address her reason for wanting to be alone with him.
"You are incredibly handsome and sexy…but like I said, I brought you up here for a reason. I have one more gift for you," she smiled.
"It's look like we had the same idea because I have one more for you as well," he grinned.
"Okay, you go first," she grinned.
Rick waltzed over to the tall mahogany chest standing on his side of the room and retrieved a small, shiny red gift box.
Michonne looked at him curiously as he handed her the gift.
"Go ahead, sweetheart. Open it," he urged.
Michonne opened the box and held up a small, gold Eiffel Tower figurine. She gazed at Rick with raised eyebrows, silently requesting an explanation.
"I wanted to save the best for last. I hope you're up for a trip…because you and I are going to Paris."
Michonne smiled widely and immediately jumped into his arms, draping her arms around his neck, and nearly knocking him off balance. He recovered quickly and lifted her off her feet as they shared a languid kiss.
"Je t'aime! Je t'aime!" she exclaimed breathlessly when they came up for air.
"I love you, too," he whispered, lowering her to the floor.
"You know, as wonderful as your gift is…mine tops it," she grinned.
"Oh, now I'm intrigued," he said, going to sit on their California king bed.
Michonne disappeared into the walk-in closet and returned a few seconds later with a rectangular gold box wrapped with a red bow. She handed Rick the box then sat down on the bed, eager for him to see what was inside.
Rick carefully unwrapped the bow and opened the box. The corners of his lips turned up into a wide grin as he retrieved the test stick with the word 'Pregnant' displayed on the digital screen.
"Really?" he asked, wide-eyed.
"Really," Michonne answered gleefully.
"Oh, sweetheart…come here," he said, engulfing her in his arms. "Do you know how happy you've just made me?"
She nodded, peppering his face with kisses. "I'm happy when you're happy."
Caught up in the bliss of the moment, they began to undress one another. Michonne helped Rick remove his sweater before standing and allowing him to unzip her dress. She shimmied out of it, while he removed the rest of his clothing.
Gently pushing her hair over her shoulder, Rick softly trailed his fingertips down Michonne's back before unhooking her bra and letting it fall to the floor. He palmed her breasts, tenderly massaging them as he placed wet kisses to her neck.
"Mmm," she moaned, letting her head fall to the side to grant him better access. He licked and sucked on her skin as if it were the sweetest thing he'd ever tasted.
"Lie down," he whispered in her ear.
The desire in his voice made her center drip with arousal. She slowly crawled on the bed, fully aware that his eyes were fixated on her plump ass. Rick licked his lips in anticipation of what he planned to do to her.
She stopped in the middle of the bed and turned to face him as he climbed on the bed and hovered over her, hooking his thumbs in her panties, and slowly drawing them down her silky legs. They held each other's gaze as he removed the lace garment and tossed it on the leather chaise.
She let her legs fall to the side as he anchored between them, taking time to kiss her inner thighs, her flat abdomen, her perky breasts, and eventually her lips. She ran her fingers through his curls, gripping them as he pushed inside of her. Her mouth parted as he sank deeper, filling her with every inch of him.
"Oh my god," she purred, as he began his delectable assault on her walls. Rick clasped his hands to her face and captured her lips in a sloppy kiss as he picked up his pace.
After a moment they locked eyes, captivated by one another. Rick raised Michonne's hands above her head and intertwined their fingers, as he continued to move inside of her, hitting her spot with each thrust. His brow furrowed as her warm, slick walls clenched around his hardness.
"God…baby," he moaned.
He quickened his movements even more, pounding into her with increasing fervor.
"Mmm…Rick," she whimpered.
The headboard repeatedly tapped against the wall. They knew they should be more concerned about the noise, but it didn't matter in the moment as they gave into their undying need for one another.
Michonne felt Rick's hands all over her as he trailed affectionate kisses down her throat. His delicious stroke was driving her to the edge, and she gripped him tight.
"Tell me you love me," he whispered into her ear.
"I love you. I'll always love you," she assured him as they continued to be lost in one another.
Basking in post-coital bliss, Michonne ran her fingers across Rick's chest as she rested against him, listening to him read. These quiet moments were her favorite, when they could just sit and enjoy each other, tucking away the outside world and relishing in the beauty of their deep connection.
Rick adjusted his glasses, turned the page, and began to read…
"When he looked into her eyes, he learned the most important part of the language that all the world spoke — the language that everyone on Earth was capable of understanding in their heart. It was love. Something older than humanity, more ancient than the desert.
What the boy felt at that moment was that he was in the presence of the only woman in his life, and that, with no need for words, she recognized the same thing. Because when you know the language, it's easy to understand that someone in the world awaits you, whether it's in the middle of the desert or in some great city.
And when two such people encounter each other, the past and the future become unimportant. There is only that moment, and the incredible certainty that everything under the sun has been written by one hand only. It is the hand that evokes love and creates a twin soul for every person in the world.
Without such love, one's dreams would have no meaning."
Michonne settled her pretty brown eyes on the love of her life, smiling as he closed the book and placed it on his nightstand.
"That was beautiful," she said softly.
"I don't think truer words have ever been spoken," Rick intimated, returning her loving gaze.
"Oh, can you relate to them?" she asked playfully.
"Yeah, every word resonated with me," he replied earnestly. "Michonne, you're my one and only, the other half of my soul. Without you, my life would be incomplete."
"Rick…" she whispered, desperately trying to hold back her tears.
"Thank you for showing me how to live again. Thank you for bringing me back," he declared.
"We brought each other back. There is no one I would rather spend eternity with than you…my true love," she smiled.
Their lips met as they melted into each other's arms, holding on as if their lives depended on it, both knowing the other would never let go.
~END~
Book Passage: The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo
A/N: Well, that's all folks. This story was a pleasure to write and I sincerely hope you all enjoyed it! I'm sad to see it end. With that said…I have an idea for a sequel. Let me know if you'd be interested in that. Review please! I love reading your thoughts. FYI, the title of this chapter means "Peace, Love, Happiness" in French. I thought it was a fitting description for the life our lovelies are living as the story concluded. Until next time, be healthy, be safe, be kind to yourselves! #KeepRichonneAlive