A/N – Thanks for the comments! Enjoy!
Chapter 65
Elizabeth groaned as she moved into the dining room at the hotel.
Robin chuckled. "Someone is feeling it."
"I didn't use to get hangovers."
"Face it, we're getting old," Kelly said.
Epiphany sat beside her. "Speak for yourself. I feel fine."
"You didn't drink a ridiculously amount of tequila," Sarah said sitting next to Liz looking worse for wear.
Everyone else joined them.
"So, what's on the agenda?" Larissa asked.
Brenda sipped on some juice. "After I work off breakfast with Johnny, who is handcuffed to my bed upstairs, I plan on going shopping." The man was certainly worth it and if she has her way, they will be exploring more, especially since he's moving to Tuscany which is closer to her.
"I'll tag along."
"Tomorrow is a spa day," Alessa said.
"We've also arranged for your hair and makeup to be done here," Robin said.
"I'm not used to being so spoiled," Liz said.
"Finish up whatever you need to do for Christmas today, and then tomorrow, is a total pampering day," Piph said. "Oh, and no nookie with Jason. Save it for your wedding night."
Liz groaned. "Have you seen him?"
Piph tried not to smirk. "Of course, I have Elizabeth, but if I can go without him all this time, you can make it for a second night."
"Suck it up, buttercup," Kelly said.
"You're staying here tonight as well," Tracy said.
Liz groaned.
"You can live without seeing my nephew for one night."
"You are so addicted," Alessa said with a grin.
Liz rolled her eyes. "You're all mean and spiteful."
Molly grinned.
Alexis sat. "What did I miss?"
"Liz is pouting because she can't see her man tonight."
"You'll live," Alexis said before perusing the menu.
"Easy for you to say."
Alexis glanced at her. "I'm living without my man right now."
Liz's eyes widened. "Who are you seeing?"
Molly wiped her mouth. "She got Shawn Butler exonerated for a crime he didn't commit, and they found love again."
"Wow," Brenda said.
"He bought Kelly's."
"Good to know I have an inside contact when I want that chocolate cake," Liz said.
Alexis grinned. "I'll warn him."
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Jason smiled when Liz entered the house. "Hey."
She smiled. "Hey. I missed you."
They embraced and then shared a loving kiss.
"Did you get Aidan's Christmas present?"
Jason smiled. "Yeah." They got him several lessons with a local chef who is revered.
"He is going to love that."
All the boys are getting watches from Jason which have an emergency feature just in case they need help. They of course are state of the art and have other features the boys will love.
"I got Maximus that subscription too."
Jason laughed. "I'll have Carlos remove his little gun, so he doesn't shoot you."
Liz giggled. "I'm not scared of his little gun."
His eyes flared. "Speaking of guns…"
She groaned. "I've been warned not to do it with you until the wedding night."
"Your friends suck."
"I can get new ones by tomorrow and we'll go upstairs right now."
He smirked. "It's tempting, but I value my life. With Epiphany in town…"
There is a knock on the door, so Liz answers it.
"Stan!"
He grins as he hugs her and then embraces Jason.
"It's good to see you," Jason said.
"Ditto. I want you to meet my family." He turned as his wife moved inside. She has light brown skin and hazel eyes. Her hair is pulled back and she is showing.
"Oh, he's so cute," Liz said eyeing Rory, who smiled as he hid behind his dad's leg.
"Thank you."
"This is Niyah."
"It's nice to meet you. I'm Elizabeth and this is Jason."
Rory spots some toys.
"He can play with them."
"Ugh—he's trying. He's growing way too fast."
"How old is he now."
"Four and a half and Niyah is five months pregnant."
Rory ran for the toys.
"Do you know what you're having?
"It's a girl," Niyah said smiling.
"One of each is good. Do you plan on having more?" Jason asked.
Niyah groaned as Stan chuckled.
"I want more, but she is not having it right now."
Liz chuckled. "Jason wants one more too."
Stan grinned. "Wow! Starting over at this point—just wow."
"I know. I think he's crazy," Liz said before motioning to the couch. "You should sit."
Jason took their jackets and the couple got comfortable.
"So, I heard you're going to buy a winery."
Jason smiled. "Yes. It's going to be an interesting adventure."
"I hope we can come back and see it."
"You're always welcome," Liz said as Jason retrieved some photos and then showed them.
"Wow, it looks beautiful," Niyah said.
The door flew open and Cam moved inside.
"Stan!"
They embraced.
"It's good to see you, Camster. You're a lot taller now."
Cam chuckled. He is introduced to Rory. "Once I passed mom's height, there was no stopping me."
Liz rolled her eyes.
"She is vertically challenged."
Liz just shook her head. "They think they are so funny."
Niyah smiled. "Are you ready?"
Liz nodded. "Yes. Tomorrow is a spa day. Are you joining us?"
"Yes, if you don't mind."
"You are pregnant and deserve the pampering."
"I could use a good foot massage."
"We'll make sure you get one."
They are joined by the rest of the family. Liz glanced at her watch. "Why don't you stay for dinner?"
"Are you sure?"
"We'd love to have you. Aidan is an excellent cook."
Aidan pretended to look scared. "You have to break me out of here. They are holding me hostage and make me cook and clean."
Stan grinned. "There are worst fates."
When Aidan shook his head, Stan laughed.
"You're such a drama queen," Liz said.
"That would be Jake."
Jake rolled his eyes. "You're ridiculous. I'm the sane one."
Cam made a face. "In your dreams."
Stan can't get over the similarity between Jake and Jason.
Once they were all caught up, they ate, and then Stan took his family back to the hotel.
Liz followed Jason upstairs and retrieved a few things for the next day.
"Are you nervous?" he asked.
"I'm excited."
He tugged her against him. "I just want everyone to be perfect."
"It will be. All I need is you, Jason. When we lock eyes as I'm walking toward you—God, I've imagined it over and over. I can't wait to be your wife."
"You already are in my heart."
She smiled. "One day, you're going to be speechless and I'll probably pass out from shock."
He chuckled. "Maybe…"
She loves how he always seems to know just the right thing to say.
They kissed reverently, savoring every second.
"Alright, get your hot lips off hers and take a few steps backward."
Jason groaned as he retreated and stared at his nemesis. "I don't remember inviting you in."
"I'm not a vampire, Jason," Brenda said glaring.
"You suck the life out of everyone around you."
"Why do you always have to make me want to punch you?"
"You are the one standing in my bedroom uninvited."
Brenda rolled her eyes. "You know the rules. Hand her over."
Liz grinned. "Give us two minutes. I need to finish that kiss and I'm already packed."
"Deal."
Jason wasted no time capturing her lips between his. "If anyone interrupts us tomorrow night, they will die."
She giggled and then mischievously ran her hand over his crotch. "I can't wait to see your big gun."
Jason groaned. "Elizabeth…"
She grinned. "I had to hear you say my name like that one more time. Bye, soon to be husband." She pulled away and grabbed the bag.
"Later, Mrs. Morgan."
"I really like the sound of that."
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The next day was full of laughter and love. After the ladies enjoyed the spa, they hung out at the suite until it was time for Elizabeth's hair and makeup appointment downstairs.
Once she was dolled up, the ladies got theirs done and they ate a light snack.
"What is your something blue?" Larissa asked.
"Lila's garter."
Brenda is moved. "She would have loved to be here."
"She will be in spirit," Tracy said.
"And borrowed?" Molly asked.
"That would be my diamond earrings. They belonged to Maximus's late wife."
Alexis sighed. "I might have to cry before this starts."
Liz slightly smiled. "It feels good having their strength around me."
"And new?"
Audrey handed Elizabeth a box. "Jason stopped by earlier and asked me to give that to you."
Liz stared at the box for a moment until the girls prodded her to hurry up. After sliding off the bow, she took a deep breath and read the message taped to the top.
"One represents unity. It also represents the one person that I will love forever; flawless, beautiful—perfection. When we join as one today, it will be forever. I love you, Elizabeth. You have my heart."
She wiped away a tear and then open the box, gasping as she viewed the huge round diamond and the delicate chain it's attached to.
"That is exquisite," Alessa said.
"Damn, I didn't know Jason had such great taste," Brenda said.
"It's so romantic," Molly said.
Larissa chuckled.
"What?" Liz asked as Epiphany took it from her so she could put it on.
"From the outside, Jason can be hard, but he's such a softy when it comes to you and the boys."
Liz smiled. "It makes me love him even more."
Once the necklace was affixed, she checked herself out in the mirror. "It's beautiful."
Epiphany felt herself getting emotional. "You are stunning, Elizabeth Webber."
Liz smiled. "Thanks."
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Jason put on his jacket. While he hates having to wear a tux, considering he's about to marry someone who completes him, complaining about it is the last thing on his mind.
Johnny gave him the once over. "You look good—I mean not as good as me though."
Jason rolled his eyes. "Considering who you're shacking up with, I know I look better."
"Brenda is gorgeous."
"Is he trying to make me sick on my wedding day?"
Francis grinned. "I can't put him out of his misery if you want."
"There will be no bloodshed today," Drew said, "but you can put him on ice until tomorrow."
"Very funny…" Johnny said.
"He wasn't kidding," Cam quipped.
Aidan grinned. He has enjoyed hanging out with everyone. His dad had asked to come to the ceremony, so he will be in attendance along with Gillian. It feels good that his father is trying, and the family is getting along.
Michael stood. "Alright, I have usher duty. Don't be late."
Jason smiled. "Oh, I won't be."
"Whipped…" Johnny muttered under his breath before ducking from Francis's hand.
Michael chuckled as he left the room. His uncle is happy, and it's nice to witness.
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Monica wiped a tear away. "Elizabeth, you look gorgeous."
Liz is beaming. "Thank you."
The gown is sleeveless but has tiny straps that hold up a fitted, lightly beaded bodice that cinches at the waist. An A-line silhouette skirt that flows to the floor completes the look. It's just the right amount of dress since she didn't want a huge, billowing skirt. She had avoided a lot of lace or embellishments, so it didn't overpower.
The bridesmaids left except for Piph.
"I hope you realize the sacrifice I'm making today."
Liz giggled. "I do. You look beautiful, Epiphany."
"Thank you." She was happy with the choice. It's a long chiffon bridesmaid dress that's softly pleated in the bodice with a V-neckline. It's faux-wrap with soft flutter sleeves. It's a gorgeous shade of blue that compliments all their varying skin tones.
Maximus moved into the room. "Everyone is ready."
Liz grinned. "Good, because I want to see my man."
Piph squeezed her hands. "I'll go warm him up for you."
Liz laughed. "Thanks, I think."
Piph chuckled and then grabbed her flowers and headed to Johnny who was waiting for her.
Maximus took Liz in. "Elizabeth, you are the closest I've come to having a daughter."
She smiled. "I could fix that if you let me play matchmaker."
He shook his head. "Shh," he said softly. "You're beautiful, smart, and I'm so happy you asked me to walk you down the aisle, even if it is to Jason."
"Are you trying to make me frown on my wedding day?"
He chuckled. "What I'm trying to say is even though you are not a Giambetti by blood, you are one in my heart. I love you." He had gone all out for this wedding. Jason had been floored when they made his vision come to life. After he was put on lockdown regarding Max's wedding, he needed to meddle.
Her hand rested on his cheek. "I love you too."
"Now, are you ready to do this?"
"I was born ready."
He led to the walkway of the tent which is adorned with lights. "He will be roadkill if he messes this up."
"You'll have to wait in line."
"Be happy, Elizabeth."
She smiled. "I am."
When the curtains were pulled back and she saw the inside, she gasped as tears pricked her eyes. It looks like a winter wonderland. There are trees covered in snow along the perimeter of the room. Everything is white and there are lit candles everywhere, some looking as if they are floating with icicles hanging from them. The centerpieces on the tables are small decorated trees and the dancefloor has chairs where everyone is sitting until the ceremony is over. A bluish light lit the room, giving it an icy effect.
Maximus chuckled. "Jason said Christmas is your favorite time of the year, so we made it come to life."
"Thank you." It's more than she had ever dreamed of and she'll never forget this day.
The music started playing and she began to move forward and smiled when she spotted Jason and all her family and friends. Watermark by Enya started to play, further playing up the beautiful atmosphere in the room and she moved down the aisle, smiling as her gaze locked on her handsome man. He looks gorgeous and so does her sons. Her head briefly turned, and Audrey blew her a kiss, and Lucky mouthed, beautiful. Slowly, they neared an arch that looks like a sheet of ice is behind it. Jason grinned. Elizabeth looks like a kid at Christmas her eyes are so wide as she perused it.
Maximus kissed her on the cheek. "Be happy."
"I will."
"Love you."
"Love you too."
He placed her hand on Jason's who lightly gripped it.
"Beautiful," he whispered.
You couldn't wipe the smile off her face. When it came time for their vows, Jason gazed into her eyes.
"Elizabeth, you are the most beautiful soul I have ever met. I am the luckiest man on earth. It took us a while to get here," there is a slight giggle that came from the crowd, "but this is the happiest day of my life. You will always have my heart. Thank you for such a beautiful family. You are my nowhere, Elizabeth; the place where I feel safe and centered. I promise to love and cherish you forever. I'll never look at anyone else the way I look at you."
She grinned. Jason isn't usually wordy, but the vows were beautiful. "Jason, there are no words to express how I feel for you. I am so thankful that God brought you back to me. You have always seen through all my defenses and accepted me; even when I couldn't accept myself. Thank you for loving me and for hearing me. No matter what comes our way, I promise to love and cherish you until death do us part. You are my forever. My heart beats for you."
Jake's eyes teared up. The way they look at each other is just beautiful and he's so happy his parents are finally getting married.
Cam is smiling. He has never seen his mother look so beautiful. It's like she's glowing.
Aidan is grinning too. As far as he is concerned, he has the most beautiful mother in the world.
Rings were exchanged and when the kiss finally arrived, Jason wasted no time laying one on her as everyone cheered.
They chuckled when they finally parted and then turned to face everyone who stood as Epiphany sang, At Last.
They move forward and everyone surrounded them as the chairs are quickly moved by the staff.
"You look so beautiful," Monica said.
"Thank you. I'm so happy."
Audrey embraced her. "You are stunning."
"Thank you, Gram."
Maximus shook Jason's hand.
"Thank you for everything," Jason said. Tess had helped him greatly too. He gave them the vision and they ran with it.
"It was my pleasure. Since I'm not allowed to plan Max's…"
"Here we go," Max said as he shook Jason's hand.
Jason laughed. "Let's not go there."
Robin hugged him. "You look very handsome."
"Thanks." It's good to see her.
Patrick shook his hand. "You chose well."
Jason smiled. "You didn't do so bad yourself."
Lucky stepped forward and held his hand out and Jason gripped it. "It's about time."
"That's the truth."
Gillian hugged Elizabeth. "I've never seen a more beautiful bride."
"Your dress is gorgeous."
She is wearing a burgundy cocktail dress that hugs her figure. "Thanks."
