At last, the day's golden rays began disappearing beyond The Sunset Sea. A warm sweet breeze swirled over Casterly Rock, settling upon the gardens and courtyards of the glorious fortress as if it had made a great journey to be part of the celebration that would soon occur. Within the ancient walls, the Great Hall had been made a flourishing paradise of blossoms and candlelight. The air itself appeared to shimmer with radiance. Tyrion had done his best to adhere to the wishes of the bride and groom, and keep the guest list to a minimum. However, by the time he had added the numbers of important bannermen, honored friends, and close relatives from both sides of the family the event was still large enough to be respectable by noble standards. Tyrion presided over the whole affair, seeing to last minute details, and ensuring all was perfect. He was in his glory.
Jaime paced up and down a porticoed passageway just off the Great Hall, feeling as though he wanted to crawl out of his skin. He was outfitted in his finest armor, polished and oiled to an immaculate shine. The deep red cloak of House Lannister billowed outward behind him as he covered the length of the corridor again and again. Widow's Wail hung proudly at his side, and even his steel seemed to ache for it's partner. Noticeably absent from Jaime's attire was his golden hand. He could not have imagined wearing the thing that had been Cersei's gift to him, when he joined his life to Brienne's. The heavy, slab of metal had become as much of a hinderance and curse to him as its benefactress herself had been when she lived. He had no wish to ever see it again. He would choose to accept himself the way he was, without any pretenses or charades. The way Brienne saw him. The way she loved him. The separation from Brienne for even a day had been unbearable. Jaime was certain that if he did not see her soon he would explode from sheer frustration, or wither to dust from the unfulfilled longing.
Lost in thought, Jaime nearly jumped when Tyrion appeared from out of nowhere behind him. "Are you ready?" The younger Lannister asked with a sly smile.
Jaime exhaled in relief. "I have been ready since I was reunited with her." He grumbled, annoyed at his nervousness.
"I know." Tyrion acknowledged. "And you have been more than patient." He admitted. "I understand that you wished to marry Brienne weeks ago." He smiled. Jaime calmed a bit at his brother's kindness. "I realize how difficult it was for you to wait." Tyrion continued. "I cannot tell you how much it means to me to be able to give this to you, both of you." He confessed.
Jaime stopped and caught his breath. He regarded Tyrion thoughtfully. "Forgive me, Brother." He begged. "Forgive my impatience." He smiled. "You have outdone yourself. Everything is perfect. There are no words to express how much Brienne and I appreciate all you have done for us." He grew wistful at the mention of her name. "We are forever in your debt."
Tyrion shook his head. "There is nothing to repay." He assured Jaime. "All I have done has been an act of love." He smiled. "I am more happy for you than I could ever describe. No one deserves this joy more." He beamed. Jaime knelt and embraced his brother, on the verge of tears. Tyrion returned his affection with a tight grasp, fighting the lump in his own throat.
After a moment, Tyrion jovially shoved Jaime away. "Now, stop your blubbering." He chuckled. "Your bride awaits." Tyrion told him, motioning him into the Hall, silently announcing that the wedding was about to begin. Jaime eagerly complied, anxious to be reunited with Brienne.
Seeing the groom enter, the guests hurried to take their places, standing along either side of a wide, long carpet that had been unrolled down the length of the Hall. The long red runner was a Lannister family heirloom, that had long ago been been woven of the finest fibers. Embroidered lions made from golden threads framed the edges, standing guard at every few paces. Tyrion had ordered the addition of suns, and moons through the middle path to pay homage to Brienne's sigil. He took great measures to ensure the new adornments exactly mirrored those that symbolized House Tarth.
Jaime strode proudly through the crowd as they parted, Tyrion leading him toward the grand hearth, in front of which stood the Septon of Casterly Rock. The only falter in Jaime's steps was upon seeing a familiar and welcome face smiling at him from the side of the aisle as he had almost reached his destination. Aiken stood in his finest garb, holding a place of honor among the guests. The breath caught in Jaime's lungs when he remembered how sick Brienne had been when they had found the farmer's tiny home, and how the caring elderly couple had nursed her back to health. Jaime was somewhat taken aback when he noted the absence of Mary by the old man's side. He prayed that did not mean anything was amiss with his friends, and hoped that Aiken's beaming grin meant surely that all was well. Jaime could only nod happily as he passed, and hope they would have a chance to speak later.
Ahead, Ser Podrick Payne stood at the side of the Septon, ready to guard over the proceedings. He had attended Jaime for most of the afternoon, ensuring that the nervous bridegroom wanted for nothing. He had polished Jaime's armor to a brilliant sheen, and assisted in securing the ties and plates as the groom had dressed. Podrick felt it his duty, in some small way, to see to it that every detail of the wedding was perfect. Now, he would be sword and shield to the knight he once squired, and her future husband. Podrick had seen them safely to Casterly Rock, and now as Lord Commander of Tyrion's Guard, he would allow nothing to mar the beginning of their life together.
Jaime swelled with pride as he reached the Septon. He bowed his head to the holy man, and nodded a knowing smile to Podrick. Jaime then turned readying himself for the moment he would finally behold Brienne. Tyrion took his position dutifully at Jaime's side, puffed with the satisfaction of not only the lavish festivities, but also for the happiness his brother had finally found. It was right to see him at last fulfilled, at peace, and in love with a good woman. His true soulmate.
Time seemed to stop as Jaime awaited the first sight of his bride. The guests shuffled, watching him in anticipation. For a moment, nothing happened. Although he certainly knew better, Jaime feared that perhaps Brienne had changed her mind. He was unaware whether he even drew breath, and he strained his eyes trying to view any movement beyond the main doors. He felt like the only person in the room, his focus transfixed upon the threshold which seemed as far from him as the island of Tarth itself. His pulse pounded in his ear. His heart raced within his chest.
At last shadows painted the heavy carved gilded doors of the Great Hall. The crowd turned, anticipating the bride's entrance. Jaime allowed himself a gasp of expectation. To his relieved surprise, the first to enter was Mary, smiling brightly and carrying Galladon who was dressed in a newly made crisp lace infant gown. Jaime could not contain his wide smile at seeing the woman who had saved Brienne's life, once again holding his infant son. The babe's tiny head spun around, taking in the sight of so many unknown faces staring adoringly at him. One would have expected the child to burst into tears amidst the throng on strangers. However, he cooed delightedly, and waved his tiny arms thoroughly enjoying being the center of attention, as if they had gathered in his honor. Jaime could not help but laugh at his son's reaction. No one in attendance dared to judge the knowledge that the child had been born out of wedlock. They knew they would face the wrath of the boy's uncle, the most powerful man in the Westerlands, should a judging word be mentioned. Little Galladon was marched up the aisle in Mary's arms, finally dissolving in laughter and stretching out his hands when he saw his father. Jaime burst with pride, and returned Galladon's joyful smile. He gave Mary a nod of gratitude as the old woman took her place on the other side of the Septon, a few respectful paces from the spot in which Brienne would soon stand. Jaime's attention returned again, to the far away doors. He held his breath once more.
It felt to Jaime that he was in another world as Lord Selwyn's tall frame came into view. The Evenstar was the epitome of regality in his ceremonial robes. Brienne's father stopped for a moment before entering the hall, and glanced to his side. Jaime could tell the man was smiling, as he bent slightly and appeared to kiss the person who stood unseen on his far side. Then Lord Selwyn turned and escorted his daughter, the bride, to her entrance before the crowd.
Jaime's heart froze at the sight of her. Brienne stood, holding her father's outstretched arm. She wore a gown of gold, her bodice the darkest blue silk, and her sleeves creamy lace. From a bejeweled sword belt, Oathkeeper hung proudly at her side. It seemed the light from every candle in the room had found her, and she fairly glowed with anticipation. Her cheeks were pink from the flush of the unaccustomed attention of all the eyes that surrounded her. Her gaze traveled over the crowd to lock upon Jaime's own. They greeted each other over the distance. To their hearts, it seemed they had been separated by years rather than just hours. Brienne wanted to run to him. Jaime wanted only to gather her in his arms and keep her there forever. She was the most exquisite thing he had ever seen.
Lord Selwyn guided Brienne slowly through the spectators, along the ceremonial red carpet. Jaime thought she glided on air. His eyes never left her, his love and admiration shone brightly in his stare. He wore the astonished, awe-filled smile of a man desperately in love. From a distance she was a vision. By the time Brienne reached the front of the Hall, and stood but paces from him, Jaime was certain she was an angel sent from the Heavens to one who wholly did not deserve her. Brienne was equally breathless as she drew closer to him. Standing, finally face to face with Jaime, her eyes were brimming with happy tears. She smiled at him bashfully, and his heart begged to melt in his chest.
The Septon announced something to the crowd that neither Jaime, nor Brienne heard. So lost in each other, they were, that awareness of anything else scarcely entered their thoughts. Lord Selwyn turned and took Brienne's hand. He clenched her fingers in his gentle fist for a moment, his eyes wistful and loving. Then he leaned and kissed her cheek. Brienne returned her father's affection with a loving embrace. After holding Brienne in his proud fatherly gaze a moment longer, Lord Selwyn turned toward Jaime. The man who in but mere moments would be Brienne's husband shook The Evenstar's hand, gratefully. The elder grasping his arm in welcome. Finally, giving his daughter to the man who loved her, Lord Selwyn laid Brienne's trembling hand in Jaime's, and moved to stand beside the couple.
Jaime held tight to Brienne, almost afraid she would fly away as they faced the Septon. The aged man looked at them compassionately, and addressed Jaime. ""You may now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection." He said formally.
Brienne and Jaime eyed each other and snickered a little. They both understood that Brienne needed no one to protect her. Her strength and skill had been the first of her qualities with which he had fallen in love. However, they realized that even more than physical guardianship, the placing of Jaime's family colors around Brienne's shoulders signified the joining of their lives, the beginning of a union that would be stronger than either of them had been separately. Although, Jaime had spent hours practicing unfastening the closures of his ceremonial cloak with only one hand, his fingers still shook so vigorously that he feared he may not be able to loosen the golden cord. Brienne smiled at him patiently and proudly, and waited. Remembering the first time he had struggled to loosen the ties at his neck, when he had come to her at Winterfell, she gave him the time he needed. She would have stood there forever, it that was what it took.
Finally, the thick fabric gave way and fell from Jaime's shoulders. He caught it with his handless arm and swung it upward, catching the neckline in his left hand. Jaime cascaded his cloak around Brienne, wrapping her in the symbol of his love for her, and the embodiment of his vow. Her eyes never left his, staring deeply into his soul with so much love that he nearly forgot to secure the closure at her collar. Her smile was everything he had ever wanted.
The Septon then looked up from the happy couple and peered out over the crowd. "We stand here in the sight of gods and men to witness the union of man and wife." He began.
'Man and wife.' The words made Jaime's heart soar. He felt as though he could fly. If it were possible, he would have risen into the sky and proclaimed his promise to the whole of Westeros.
In that moment, the one person who could have interrupted the solemn ceremony chose to make his presence known. Held snuggly in his caregiver's arms, Galladon whined loudly, and stretched for his parents' embrace. Brienne and Jaime turned toward their son, a gleeful smile shared between them. The boy's mother regarded him lovingly and lowered her head in acceptance. Lord Selwyn grinned, and lifted his grandson from the arms of his diligent custodian. He happily brought the child to Brienne and settled him in her arms. Jaime reached and kissed his son's head, making sure that mother and child were both satisfied before allowing the ceremony to continue.
With a knowing nod, the Septon watched as Brienne and Jaime joined their hands atop his. The elder man brought a pure white sash that had been carefully laid across the book from which he read, and draped it over the lovers' grasp. He regarded the bride and groom with reverence, and wrapped their hands loosely. Turning his stare back for the crowd of well wishers, the cleric spoke again.
"Let it be known that Lady Brienne of House Tarth and Ser Jaime of House Lannister are one heart, one flesh, one soul. Cursed be he who would seek to tear them asunder." The Septon declared. Jaime and Brienne studied each other knowingly, memories of all they had endured to be together running through their thoughts.
"In the sight of the Seven." The old man continued. "I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one for eternity. Look upon one another and say the words." He bid.
Holding each other in an adoring gaze, there was no else in the room as Jaime and Brienne swore their vows together. "Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am hers and she is mine. From this day, until the end of my days," Jaime proclaimed proudly, as Brienne echoed his promise.
"Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am his and he is mine. From this day, until the end of my days." Brienne swore to him, her voice quivering with emotion.
At last, having promised themselves to each other Jaime stepped closer to Brienne, and presented her the token of his oath. "With this kiss I pledge my love, and take you for my lady and wife." He smiled, joyfully.
Brienne answered, equally elated. "With this kiss I pledge my love, and take you for my lord and husband." She pledged, her face alight with happiness.
They reached for each other, fingers entwined within their marriage ribbon. Jaime wrapped his free arm around Brienne and drew her tightly to him. She could no longer prevent her happy teardrops from falling. Neither could he. Brienne melted into Jaime's embrace as their child nestled between them. It was not their first kiss, but was the most glorious, soft and slow, and full of promise. Losing themselves in the moment, it was as if the entire world had disappeared. All that had conspired to keep them apart had failed. The reluctance in which they once hidden their feelings, and the mistakes they had made had served only as minor hindrances to their enduring happiness. At last they shared each other as husband and wife.
When finally, their private celebration was satiated, the Septon smiled proudly over them and addressed the crowd. "Who were two are now one flesh, one heart, one soul, now and forever." He announced with authority. Beside the bride and groom, Tyrion and Lord Selwyn smiled smugly at each other, content at the beautiful ceremony they had presented the couple, and pleased at the joy their loved ones had found.
The glorious passion in which Jaime and Brienne reveled became a giddy bliss as they clung to each other. Even little Galladon in their arms could not contain his sweet happiness, and serenaded his parents promise with a chorus of babyish coos and giggles, as he snuggled contentedly between them. When Jaime and Brienne turned to greet their guests, the Hall met them with a loud and boisterous cheer.
The celebration of Brienne and Jaime's marriage lasted long into the night. There were minstrels and dancing, speeches and oaths of fealty toasted to the bride and groom. The kitchens served a lavish feast for the guests, that included the flowing of many barrels of wine. Extravagant symbolic gifts were presented to the newlyweds, and even to their young son. Queen Sansa had sent two long beautiful daggers fashioned of dragon glass to commemorate the couple's service to Winterfell. The blades were set in hilts of polished steel in which were mounted flawless rubies and sapphires representing the union of House Tarth and House Lannister. The ornate silver inflayed box which held the weapons also contained a third smaller dagger for Galladon, upon which was carved the suns, and moons of his mother's Sigil surrounding the lion's of his father's crest. The union of Ser Brienne of Tarth and Ser Jaime of Casterly Rock was indeed a grand wedding gala, much to Tyrion's delight.
Jaime and Brienne happily embraced Mary and Aiken, who imparted to them how Tyrion had sent his agents to their little farm to collect them in a beautifully adorned carriage. Brienne had, earlier that day, been told of their arrival and had insisted that Mary be shown directly to her chambers. She herself had given the dear woman the special honor of caring for Galladon during the ceremony. The elder couple who had brought Brienne back to health, were presented one of the finest quarters at Casterly Rock, and would be honored guests for the duration of their visit.
Lord Selwyn beamed with pride as he moved throughout the wedding feast greeting guests, and enjoying himself thoroughly. His was so filled with joy for his beloved daughter that he thought his own heart might burst. At last making his way back around to the happy couple, The Evenstar opened his arms wide and enveloped Brienne in an adoring embrace. He kissed her temple and held her close. He brushed his palm over the crown of Galladon's head as the child perched in her arms.
"I have never seen a more lovely bride in all my life." He boasted. "Or a happier one." He smiled at both her and Jaime.
"Jaime, My Boy." Selwyn continued, clasping Jaime on the shoulder. "You have been given a very important responsibility." He declared, looking at Brienne with love and pride.
"That, I most certainly have." Jaime agreed, his arm traveling around Brienne's waist. "I assure you it is an honor I cherish, and one that I shall never take for granted." He vowed.
Lord Selwyn regarded his daughter and her new husband with a satisfied grin. "I know you will not." He accepted, taking Jaime's outstretched hand, and shaking it vigorously.
Just then, from near the hearth, Tyrion tapped his goblet with the blade of his dagger and called the gathering to order. "Forgive me, Ladies and Lords, for interrupting the festivities, but I would like to present my gift to the bride and groom." He smiled. "Might I request that my brother and his wife join me?" Tyrion asked, and scanned the crowd, his eyes coming to rest upon Jaime and Brienne with a welcoming smile.
Jaime held out his arm for Brienne, who handed off her adorable charge to Lord Selwyn. Galladon giggled with delight and settled against his grandfather. The newlyweds made their way to where Tyrion had called them, the crowd parting as they approached. Neither were sure what to expect, as they took their places beside him. A mindful servant quickly supplied them with full goblets of their own, obviously already having been ordered to do so.
Tyrion nodded to the newlyweds in gratitude and again addressed the crowd. "First I think it appropriate to acknowledge the benevolence and leadership of our honored king, Brandon Stark." Tyrion said respectfully. "Long live the King." He proclaimed and raised his cup in reverence.
"Long Live the King." Jaime and Brienne answered, and followed suite, as the crowd cheered the wish for their recently crowned monarch.
Tyrion cleared his throat. Jaime could not tell if his brother was nervous or excited. Perhaps a little bit of both. "I have of late been informed that my presence has been requested in the Capital." He told them, unable to meet Jaime's questioning and concerned glare. "I have accepted an appointment as Hand of the King." He announced, and turned toward Jaime who was unable to control the dropping of his jaw. Brienne stood near her husband, holding onto his arm in shock.
"As such, I will no longer be able to carry out my duties at Casterly Rock." Tyrion's brow furrowed apologetically to Jaime, and then he looked out over the crowd once more.
"It is for that reason that I now have the honor of bestowing the titles of a Lord of Casterly Rock and Lord Paramount of the Westerlands upon my brother, Ser Jaime Lannister. The next in line and rightful heir of this House." He spoke with authority, and Jaime noted, almost with relief.
The crowd roared its approval as Tyrion took Jaime's hand to seal the transfer. He smiled widely up at Jaime who was just finding his voice. "Are, are you sure?" Jaime asked guardedly. "You are giving up so much power. I know what that means to you." He conceded.
Tyrion shook off Jaime's worry. "But I will be gaining so much more." He smiled. "Imagine what I can do in Kings Landing." His eyes twinkled.
Jaime drew in a sharp breath. "What a terrifying thought." He shared Tyrion's laughter.
"Bannermen, Honored Guests, Friends, Family." Tyrion called out, and held up his palms directing attention to Jaime and Brienne. "I give you, Lord and Lady Lannister." He beamed.
The approving cheers of the crowd rang through the Great Hall once more. Jaime looked at Brienne, hoping he had done the right thing in accepting Tyrion's gesture. He found only pride and love shining on her face as she beheld him. "You will make a wonderful Lord Paramount, My Husband." She told him earnestly.
Jaime wrapped his arms around Brienne and pulled her to him. "And you, My Love, My Wife, will make the perfect Lady Lannister." He smiled, and brought his lips to hers as the crowd applauded them.
The festivities were still in full swing and showed no signs of abating when Brienne and Jaime bid their good nights, eager to begin a more private celebration of their marriage vows. With Galladon sleeping soundly on his father's shoulder, the bride and groom retired to their chamber. The quiet and solitude of their rooms was a welcome change from the lively gala that had been thrown in their honor, especially after having been kept apart all day.
They tiptoed into the nursery where Jaime carefully laid their sleeping son into his bassinet. The exhausted babe never stirred. Brienne laid her fingers atop Galladon's chest and settled him lovingly. It had become their ritual to stand together over their slumbering child once they had put him to bed, wrapped in each other's arm, glorying in the love they shared. This night was no different. Jaime felt as rich and powerful as a king with his treasure, Brienne, in his arms. She felt safe and warm, and truly cherished.
Brienne nestled into Jaime's embrace. As she rested her head against his, her hand slid softly up the chest plate of his armor. She began to loosen the buckles at his shoulder. He placed sweet kisses at her temple, his body reacting to her. Once Brienne had removed Jaime's shining steel, and they were separated by nothing, he caught her to him kissing her wantonly. His delicious provocation brought a low lustful sigh to her throat. She was as eager to share their wedding night in passion as he was. However, before she completely lost herself in their love making, there was something she had waited all day to share with him.
Brienne reluctantly pulled from Jaime's loving grasp. She smiled sweetly at him. "Would you help me with my gown?" She turned a bashful gaze downward, spying his need for her. She felt a little guilty at making him wait, but she knew it would be worth it.
"Of course." Jaime smiled seductively, imaging the visions beneath the silk and lace that Brienne wore. He quickly sneaked one more kiss upon her neck just under her ear. The sensation sent a glorious shutter down her spine.
They made their way slowly into the bed chamber, where again he captured her waist and entwined her in his arms. He tasted her mouth greedily. She melted at his touch, eager to feel him upon her skin. Slowly, Jaime moved his hand to help Brienne as she began to untie the laces at the front of her bodice. He carefully helped Brienne to lower her gown and step from the intricately woven garment. She stood before him in only her under shift and small cloth. His nearness excited her, and she felt the familiar inviting wetness between her legs. Urgently, she forced herself to focus upon the news she wanted to announce, and stopped his amorous path to her body.
"Wait." Brienne smiled coyly. She placed her hands upon his shoulders, holding him at bay.
"I don't think I can." He declared, yearning for every inch of her. He leaned forward struggling to reach her, and caught her lips in a powerful kiss.
Brienne giggled, and halted his momentum as best she could. "I have a gift for you." She told him, her voice giddy with anticipation.
Jaime stopped his struggle to reach her, and sighed. "A gift?" He questioned, regret finding his eyes. "But I have nothing to present to you?" He lamented with embarrassment. He hated himself for not thinking to find for her a momento with which to mark their joyous occasion. "Forgive me." He lowered his eyes in shame.
Brienne brought her hands up to caress his face, lifting his eyes to her. "You have given me everything, My Husband." She told him, adoringly. "There is nothing more for which I could ever want." Her smile warmed him. Her selflessness inspired him. She was the most wonderful wife a man could ask for.
Brienne gazed into his eyes. "It is but a tiny thing." She smiled at the truth in her words. She longed to tell her secret.
She took him by the hand and led him to the bed. "Sit down." She bid, making sure he would be adequately comfortable for the shock.
Jaime did as he was told and perched on the edge of the mattress. His face was a portrait of confusion and concern. Brienne moved to stand before him, filling the space between his knees. Taking a deep breath, she reached and took his hand in her own. She squeezed his fingers tightly for a moment, staring into his eyes, a look of wonder on her face. Then she slowly brought Jaime's palm and laid it atop her abdomen.
"I am with child." Brienne's voice broke with emotion as she told him. Happy tears came to her eyes as she imagined the life she held within her womb, the life they had created. She searched Jaime's face for his reaction, hoping he would be as joyful about the discovery as she was.
Jaime sat motionless, the meaning of Brienne's news slowly dawning upon him. His fingers moved delicately over her still flat belly. "What?" He asked, unsure he had heard her correctly. Brienne merely smiled. "A baby?" He beamed. She nodded, unable to hold back her excited smile.
Jaime slid off the bed, and onto his knees infront of Brienne, as if he were worshipping mother and child. Brienne removed her shift and wiggled out of her small cloth, letting the garments fall to the floor. She stood naked before her husband. Jaime laid his lips against the plane of her belly, and kissed the babe within through her skin. He pressed his ear to the softness of her flesh, almost trying to hear the tiny unheard heartbeat. Brienne laced her fingers through his hair and held his head close to her, reveling in his awed response to the news.
A happy little sob ran through Brienne's body and brought Jaime back to reality. Slowly, he rose to face her, his hand still placed protectively on her abdomen. Suddenly, he remembered her nausea at day break. "Is that why you were ill earlier?" He looked at her with wonder.
Brienne nodded. "Actually. I haven't felt well for days." She informed him, a little embarrassed at keeping that truth from him. "The Maester examined me after my father presented my mother's wedding gown to me this morning." She whispered as he held her to him. "I am a little more than a moon along." She smiled expectantly.
For a moment Jaime grew concerned. "So soon after Galladon?" He asked worriedly. "Will you be strong enough, for another babe?" He studied her for any sign of weakness.
She chuckled a bit, and nodded. "That is why I did not realized it." Brienne explained. "My bleeding had not been regular since he was born." She grinned self consciously.
"And we have not exactly been taking precautions." Jaime smiled, remembering how they had enjoyed each other nearly every night since they had arrived at Casterly Rock.
Brienne nodded happily in agreement. "The Maester said that I am returned to full health." She assured Jaime. "He said I should have no problems." She told him happily. Her smile brightened Jaime's whole world. He lost himself studing every angle of her.
Brienne grew quiet, unsure for a moment. "You are...happy, aren't you?" She looked at him hopefully.
Jaime's eyes gleamed brightly as he looked earnestly into hers. "Oh, My Darling." He swore. "I could not be happier. No man has ever been as fulfilled or as content as I." He brought his forehead to hers with a joyful sigh, recalling his wish by the ocean that afternoon, that he and Brienne might be blessed with more children. "We're having another baby." He laughed.
He could feel the excitement building within him. He wanted to shout for joy. Without hesitation, Jaime gathered Brienne up into his arms and spun her around, whooping at the top of his lungs. She laughed out loud along with him.
Almost as soon as he had lifted Brienne off her feet, he realized what he had done. Quickly, and carefully he set her back upon the floor, terrified at the thought of having done harm to her or the babe. "I'm sorry, My Love. I'm sorry." Jaime repeated urgently. "Did I hurt you? Forgive me." He begged.
Brienne snickered at his concern, and caressed his jaw, eager to ease his mind. "No, Dearest, you did not hurt me." She guaranteed. "I am..." She stopped herself, and ran her hand lovingly over her belly. "We are just fine." She relieved his worry.
Without the need for words, Jaime devoured Brienne with his eyes, anticipating the night to come. She felt as if her body was set afire by his passionate glare. She leaned her head back and welcomed his adoring kiss, which delighted upon her mouth and then trailed down to explore her supple tender breasts. His mouth elicited a soft moan that beckoned him further. She needed him. He needed her.
Jaime turned Brienne gently in his arms, and laid her softly down upon the bed. He watched her long lean body stretch luxuriously, readying herself for him. Jaime quickly tore off his tunic, and unlaced his britches, kicking them to the side. Gingerly, he climbed onto the bed to join his wife. Brienne trailed her finger along the muscles of his arm as he hovered over her. He bent to taste her mouth once more. She reached up and caressed the curve of his shoulders. The tracks of her fingertips as her hands slid down his back to his waist, warmed him with the most glorious sensation of peace. She was his everything.
Brienne moved one hand lower, enveloping Jaime's hard cock in her warm grasp. Her touch made him shutter with want, groaning with satisfaction. Their lustful mouths found the other, greedy tongues searching and tasting. Jaime moved to lean on the elbow of his handless arm. With his fingers he tickled Brienne's ribs, followed the graceful line of her waist, and traced the edge of her hip getting lost in the soft curls between her legs. He dared not reach inside her, for fear of harming the babe. Instead, he busied himself pleasuring the sensitive nerves hidden within her velvet folds. Brienne breathed a sigh of heady bliss, and arched her back, begging him for more. He readily complied, driving her to the height of her passions, and lingering long enough to enjoy a glorious rushing flow from her which cascaded over his fingers. A loud cry of gratification from her throat made him even harder. He breathed a questioning kiss into her mouth. Her lovely pleading eyes told him she was ready.
Jaime gingerly lowered himself atop Brienne, careful not to rest his full weight upon her life-filled belly. He rounded his back so that his pulsing cock could reach her warm swollen entrance. Softly, slowly he lost himself inside her. Brienne sighed with longing, and raised her legs around him to welcome him further. Their kiss deepened, hungry for one another. Brienne's fingers dug into the muscles of Jaime's back, driving him crazy with desire. Unable to wait any longer, he thrust himself deep into her glorious body. He took her to the edge, and withdrew over and over again until Brienne was close to screaming with her pleasure. He himself was doing his best to the fight the need to explode within her, as he relished the taste of her tongue upon his.
At last, neither could deny the peek of their passion any longer. Their bodies tensed. Their voices joined in a chorus of primal euphoria. Brienne threw her head back in readiness. Jaime let his head drop to her chest, satisfying his mouth upon her perfect breasts. Together, they reached their climax, and rode the waves of arduous need, clinging desperately to each other. Exhausted, and satisfied Jaime rolled onto the mattress beside Brienne as she tried to catch her breath. He gathered her in his arms, and lay beside her in the soft light of the fire from the hearth. Brienne rested against him, as he draped his hand over her belly. The warmth of his body next to her was a delight of which Brienne would never grow tired. He placed soft kisses on her skin as she nestled to him.
Brienne turned her head and looked deeply into Jaime's eyes. "I love you, My Husband." She declared to him.
Jaime closed his eyes, enjoying the sound of her voice. When he opened them again, he smiled so contentedly at her that it took her breath away. "I love you, My Wife." He swore, and kissed her deeply.
Jaime held Brienne and felt her rhythmic breathing against his chest. He could almost sense the life of their child within her belly as he covered it protectively with his own hand. Never had there been a happier couple, or two people who loved each other so completely. Of that, he was certain. Jaime laid his head against Brienne's, breathing in the scent of her. He tightened his grip around her, unwilling to leave even a hair's breadth between them. Together they fell asleep in each other's arms.