Early Spring 2031:
The brutal winter was finally over. The weather was turning as is the tide of the war. They had victory after victory and succeeded in ridding Northern Texas of the Patriots.
Blanchard got his wish, and the Patriots were officially defeated in April 2031 with the capture of Patriot President Davis and his General in Charge, Truman. Both were secured in a Texas jail awaiting trial for war crimes and the assassination of the Texas President.
It was a crisp early morning when a group of Texas Rangers riding through the ground fog arrived at the Matheson Camp with the news that they had captured President Davis of the Patriots and all the higher-ups in their wannabe government. The war was over.
Blanchard summoned Miles, Duncan, and Bass to Austin. They left for Austin, accompanied by the Rangers and Charlie, of course. Charlie refused to let Bass go to Austin without her, afraid of him being detained, not that she could stop it, but she wanted to be there for him.
Duncan brought two of her clansmen with her. Because of Bass, Rachel was not invited along.
Even before the arrival of the Rangers, Bass had been making plans, and he was going to talk to Charlie about them on their way to Austin. The trip would take two full days of riding. Plenty of time for them to talk.
After riding all day, they set up camp for the first overnight. The group shared a supper of rabbit that Charlie had gotten for them. Miles set up watches, and they settled in for the night. Bass and Charlie had set their sleeping bags away from the others and snuggled in. Pulling Charlie close, Bass kisses her as she settles into the crook of his arm, nestled against his neck and shoulder. He kisses her head, ignoring Miles' glare. Miles was still bothered by their relationship, although he was somewhat civil about it.
"Charlie…" Bass whispers.
"Bass…"
"Charlie, after Austin, I want to leave. The Patriot War is over, and I'm not needed or wanted. It's time to move on, put all of this behind me." Bass tells her softly.
"Bass, what are you saying? Are you saying goodbye?" as she sits up anxiously. (no…he wouldn't do that.)
"No…I'm hoping that you will come with me, but I understand if you want to stay with your family. I love you, Charlie. More than you can know. It's just that I can't keep looking over my shoulder, waiting for Rachel to put a bullet in my back. She will, you know, given a chance."
"Bass…she wouldn't."
"Come on, Charlie. She's pulled a gun on me already, more than once. Did you know that Duncan put a guard on me? She did that after the last time when she followed me into the woods, and she tried to slit my throat. She had to have been waiting for me, watching…I was a bit indisposed when she came up behind me. I can't even take a crap without someone watching my back. I don't want to live like this anymore. I can't live like this anymore. It's only because of you and Miles that I haven't hurt her. Miles' constantly projecting his disapproval and contempt, AARP's open hostility. At least Aaron and Cynthia seem to have accepted us. It hurts. I have a hard enough time living with myself without having it shoved in my face constantly. I know that I did terrible things, monstrous things. I get that I don't deserve forgiveness, and it's never going to happen, but… well, it's just too hard to live like this. Maybe if they would just leave me alone, but still… it's lonely knowing how much you're hated."
Charlie settled back into Bass' embrace; her eyes filled with tears for him. "Bass, I forgive you, and you know that I love you too. I'm with you no matter what you do. Miles has a life with my mother. Arron has Cynthia. What else could I possibly want to stay for? Grandpa? So… yes… I'm going; just try and stop me. You know how well I can track," she teased but meant it. She would follow him if he took off.
Bass had been sure that she would go with him, but his insecurity allowed doubt to creep in. With relief, Bass kissed her deeply, then whispered in her ear, "I so want to make love to you right now." Charlie smiled and then kissed him.
The group arrives in Austin late on the second day. Blanchard had reserved rooms for them at the Austin Grand Hotel, the very best hotel in the city. The meeting with him was scheduled for the following morning.
Walking up to the reception desk, they're greeted by a friendly clerk.
"Good afternoon. Do you have a reservation? I'm afraid that we're fully booked."
"We should have reservations under Matheson, three rooms," Miles explains.
"Let's see…oh, yes! Three suites reserved by the President. Please sign in here, Mr. Matheson. Here are your keys. Will you be needing anything?"
"Bathwater would be good," Miles responds.
"That would be for all of you?"
"Yes," both Duncan and Bass answer.
Miles passes Duncan and Bass their keys, and they proceed up the stairs to their rooms.
"Are we meeting for dinner?" Miles asks.
"Yup, sounds good," Duncan replies.
"What time?" Bass asks.
"How's 6:30?" Miles answers.
"Good with me, Charlotte?"
"That's fine."
They disappeared into their rooms to rest and freshen up before dinner. Fifteen minutes later, the warm water for their bath arrived. Bass and Charlie helped each other in the tub then retired to the bed. Bass got to finish what he had wanted to start the night before.
At 6:30, they met in the hotel dining room and were seated at a table festooned with a white tablecloth and napkins. This was a first for Charlie, and she was a bit intimidated. Everything looked so fancy. Bass, sitting next to her, gave her thigh a reassuring squeeze.
The food was delicious, right down to the strawberry rhubarb pie. Charlie ordered a second piece causing Bass to chuckle.
After dinner, Miles searched for a bar with Duncan while Bass and Charlie took in the city. Charlie bought herself some new essentials. Bass found a pair of boots.
Back at their room, Bass let them in and grabbed Charlie for a kiss while shutting the door with his foot. "I've been waiting for this all day," he growled as he continued kissing and nibbling her neck, all the while divesting her of her clothing.
"Charlotte, my sweet Charlotte."
"Bass…"
A bed never felt so sweet as they kissed, caressed, and loved each other.
Lying close in their afterglow, Bass kisses her yet again, never able to get enough of her.
"Charlotte…"
"Bass?"
"You've made me so unbelievably happy. After Shelly died, I never thought that I would feel this way again. You've given me forgiveness for the unforgivable. You've made me whole, once again. I almost feel like the old me," caressing her cheek and running his hand down her arm and to her side. "Charlotte, will you marry me?"
Charlie was momentarily speechless, never expecting this from him. "Bass, are you serious?"
"Dead serious."
"I never even thought of marriage, you know, with the way things are. I love you incredibly much, but is marriage even still a thing?"
"Call me old-fashioned; just don't call me old," Bass chuckles. "Seriously, it means a lot to me, Charlotte, a complete and total commitment to each other."
"Then yes! Yes, I will marry you. Will I be Charlie Monroe?"
"I would love it if you took my name, but I'll understand if you don't want to."
"I want to…total commitment…total forgiveness."
Bass' eyes filled, and a tear escaped down his cheek. "Thank you, Charlotte," he whispered. "I love you; I need you." Then, reaching into the bedside table's drawer, he pulls out his mother's engagement ring and slips it on her finger.
"Bass, wow! It's beautiful! How?"
"It was my mother's. You are the first and only one to ever wear it."
"Not Shelly?"
"No. I loved her, but… I don't know; it just didn't feel right at the time."
"Thank you," she leans in for a kiss. "When do you want to get married?"
"Now, here, in Austin, before we go. If it's okay with you."
Putting her arms around his neck and kissing him deeply, "Here is good."
Bass and Charlie woke to an ever-irritated Miles pounding on their door. "Hey! Numbnuts! The meeting is in an hour if you're looking to get some breakfast."
Bass groaned, "Yeah, we'll meet you in the dining room."
Miles was grumbling and muttering to himself as he ran into Duncan on her way to breakfast.
"What's got your panties all in a wad this early?" Duncan asked him.
"Ahgg…" he growled. "Still having a hard time reconciling my niece with Monroe. Just doesn't seem right. He can be unstable, he's old enough to be her father, and she's my niece, for God's sake. Her mother is devastated."
"So… because he was once your friend? Because of what he's done even though you're not innocent? Because of Rachel? Because he's older? Come on, Miles. She's a big girl; it's up to her to make that call. And things being what they are, the world turning to shit, what's age? People need to find happiness where they can. Let's go; I need coffee."
Charlie and Bass walked into the dining room fifteen minutes later, both sporting ridiculous grins.
"What's with you two?" Miles grouched.
Duncan noticed Charlie's hand and laughed. "Congratulations!"
"Thank you," they both answered.
Miles blinked, "What? You've got to be kidding me! Oh…hell… well, Charlie, are you just trying to send your mother over the edge?"
"She went over the edge a long time ago. This isn't about her. I'm living my life, Miles. She lived hers…is living hers."
Bass had a lot he wanted to say, but he chose to say nothing for Charlie's sake.
Arriving at the capitol, Miles, Duncan, Bass, and Charlie were met by Blanchard's security team and was escorted to his office.
"Mr. President, Generals Matheson, and Monroe, and Ms. Paige are here."
"Show them in, please." General and now President Frank Blanchard stood and walked around to the front of his desk to greet his guests. Frank was a large man with a full head of longish gray hair and a beard to match. Gruff at times but always ready for a good time. "Gentleman, Ladies, good of you to come."
"Did we have a choice, Frank?" Miles grumbled.
Frank laughed at Miles' expected attitude. "Of course, you did, but then you wouldn't get your reward or the offer of employment that I have for you. Monroe, you're awfully quiet."
"Just waiting to see what's up before I open my mouth for a change."
This caused more laughter from the President.
"Duncan Paige. Thank you for joining these two miscreants."
"I, too, am curious as to the summons as I will be returning to the Plains Nation."
"Of course, and Miss Matheson. To what do I owe this pleasure?"
"I'm with him," Charlie says, indicating Bass while Miles huffs and rolls his eyes.
Frank moved back behind his desk. "Interesting…I would have expected that your answer would have been that you were here with Matheson. Okay, let's get to it then. On behalf of the Great Republic of Texas, I present to each of you six ounces of diamonds for your service in defeating the scourge of the Patriots." Frank hands Miles, Duncan, and Bass a pouch of diamonds.
"Miles, I am offering you the rank of General in charge of training with the Rangers. You'll be given a suitable residence here in Austin and a salary, of course.
General Monroe, The Republic of Texas grants you a full pardon for any and all crimes as further compensation for your aid in defeating the Patriot cancer on this great nation. This also comes with an offer of the position of General. You'd have the day-to-day operations of the Rangers along with special ops and, of course, the same offer of a residence.
And Ms. Paige. You and your Clan are awarded 50 square miles of land on the border of what was once Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. If that doesn't work for you, we can discuss an alternative.
So…Matheson, Monroe… what do you say?"
Standing next to Bass, Charlie stiffened when she heard Blanchard's offer to make Bass a General. This is a real test to see if what he has been saying is true. Bass, feeling her reaction, slipped his hand into hers and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
Miles accepted Frank's offer, as did Duncan.
Bass was quiet, still not saying anything for a moment.
"Monroe?" Blanchard questioned. Charlie gave Bass' hand a squeeze back.
"Frank, thank you for the offer, but no, no, thank you. I'm done, retired, or whatever. I will keep the pardon and the diamonds, though," Bass quips.
"Of course," Frank cackles. "You're sure… I can't change your mind? I expected that this would be right up your alley."
"Yeah, I'm sure, Frank."
Miles was astonished when Bass turned down Blanchard. He never really believed Bass when he said he no longer wanted to command an army. He never really believed that Bass had changed, that he no longer was looking for a position of power. He expected that when the battle with the Patriots was over, Bass would try and rebuild the Republic, cynically thinking that was the only reason he was helping with the Patriots in the first place.
"Monroe, I figured you'd be all over being general of an army once again," Blanchard remarks, somewhat taken back at Bass' turning down his offer.
"I'm done with that life, Frank. I just want to move on, live a quiet life, hopefully, be left alone. No more fighting, no more war. I've spent half my life fighting…Afghanistan, then the rebels, and Georgia, the Patriots. I'm done."
"Fair enough. Miles, you have two weeks to relocate here. Is that enough?"
"Should be."
"Perfect, when you get in and settled, get in touch with my secretary, and we'll meet. See her on the way out, and she will get someone to show you your residence.
Ms. Paige… I want to thank you again. The help of your Clan in the Patriot War was immeasurable."
"Duncan is fine, and It was necessary for us too."
"Duncan, my secretary will put you in touch with land management, and they will get you the paperwork certifying the ownership of the land to be given. They will also provide you with a map.
Monroe, would you stay a moment? Miss Matheson, he'll be just a few moments," as he effectively dismissed Miles, Duncan, and Charlie.
"She stays with me, Frank," Bass responds while Miles scowled, his bitchy frowny face, wondering what was up with Bass. He cringed when Bass insisted that Charlie remain, and Duncan chuckled at his reaction. Frank just loved the drama.
Duncan and Miles left, leaving Frank, Bass, and Charlie alone.
"Monroe…Bass… I'm sorry to push, but there's nothing I can do to change your mind? I could really use your experience and expertise."
"No, Frank. Like I said, I'm done with that life."
"I'm disappointed, but I understand," as he reaches into a desk drawer and pulls out another pouch handing it across to Bass. "Here's another six ounces of diamonds… the uncollected bounty that was on your head. I figure you deserve it, especially after Texas executed you on behalf of the Patriots. It's yours. Glad that didn't work out, by the way."
Bass laughed, "Yeah, me too."
"How did you get out of it, anyway?"
Charlie spoke up, "My mother was responsible for the lethal injection. She switched meds to make him look dead after I asked her to save his life."
"Well, doesn't that beat all?"
"Frank, can't thank you enough," Bass says. "The pardon means a lot."
"It's the least I can do for what you've done for us even after we tried to kill you. What are your plans?"
Bass slipped an arm around Charlie's waist. "We plan on heading west and finding someplace quiet to settle down. Hopefully, somewhere where I'm not on someone's hit list. Get a place, raise some chickens and goats, maybe some pigs and a nice garden."
Frank chuckled, "Never pictured you a farmer, Monroe."
"If that's what you want to call it. I just want to live my life in peace, Frank. Maybe have a family," looking sideways at Charlie. She smiles and gives his hand a squeeze.
"Well, that should help you get started," indicating the extra diamonds. "Now, here are two copies of your pardon. They carry my official seal. Keep them with you in case you run into trouble. I have already sent word to all the Ranger Bases and Outposts detailing your status. They will have copies as well. God, do I miss email and fax machines."
Charlie looks perplexed with the pre-blackout reference. She'll ask Bass about it later.
Bass was stunned by the extra diamonds. Frank was right with how much it would help him and Charlie make a fresh start. The official pardon was huge as well, relieving some of his anxiety. Maybe he wouldn't have to be 'Jimmy King'. Frank stood and reached out across his desk to shake Bass' hand. "Bass… good luck, Ms. Matheson. Am I to assume that you are going with him?"
"Yes, you assumed correctly."
"I wish you the best of luck and safe travels to the both of you."
"Actually, Frank, there is something else that you can do for me… for us."
"What's that?"
"We want to get married and as soon as possible. Do you know of a priest or minister that would be able to marry us on short notice?"
Frank roared, "Miles must be having kittens!"
"He knows we're engaged but not that we want to marry right away… kind of want to keep it that way for now," Bass replied.
"Well, I'm sure that I can help you out. Come back and see me later this afternoon, and I should have an answer for you then."
"That's great, Frank, thank you. Now, another favor? We don't have anyone to stand up with us. Would you and Mrs. Blanchard do us the honor?"
"It would be a privilege, and I know that Jessica will be thrilled; she loves weddings. Miles won't be there?"
"Ahh, no. We don't exactly…get along anymore, and he disapproves of us being together."
"I see, that's a shame. Get back to me later today, and I'm sure that we can work something out."
Bass reached out with his hand, "Thanks, Frank. It means a lot."
Charlie smiled and shook his hand as well, and he pulled her into a bear hug prompting Bass to growl, "Frank…". Blanchard laughed.
They left Frank's office, and Bass pulled Charlie close for a quick kiss, then grinning, "Let's go shopping." They left the capitol building, holding hands as they walked the streets of Austin, taking in the sights and the shops. Bass was feeling like a teenager, walking with his girl.
There was an actual men's shop where Bass found a new white shirt and pair of jeans.
Then while Charlie was in the dress shop, Bass paid a visit to the barber across the street and got his hair and beard trimmed.
Charlie found a pale-yellow sundress with a pattern of tiny blue forget-me-nots and a pair of flats. The shop- keeper also sold her a pretty jeweled comb for her hair. In all of Charlie's life, she could think of only two times that she had worn a dress, and it felt strange, but she wanted to do this for Bass.
Their shopping complete, they had lunch at an outdoor café. After returning to the hotel to drop off their purchases, Bass and Charlie decided to walk through Zilker Park, maybe find a spot for their wedding. As they make their way through the park, they come upon a gazebo by the lake sitting on the steps; they watch the ducks and enjoy the view.
"It's so peaceful here. If I hadn't lived it, I wouldn't believe that there was a war," Charlie says as she sits between Bass's legs leaning back into him, his arms resting around her with a feeling of peace and contentment.
"We've been fighting one battle after another for so long, it feels like a lifetime. Actually, it has been a lifetime."
"Austin seems to have been spared. Everything looks so fresh." Charlie adds.
"Texas really protected their capital city."
"This spot is beautiful. Bass, let's ask Blanchard if we can be married here."
"Perfect."
They sat quietly for a while longer before it was time to meet with Blanchard.
"I want to ask Duncan to stand with me," Charlie says. "She's been so supportive, and after all, we're Clan sisters."
Bass had to chuckle. "Who would have thought when I brought you to New Vegas and introduced you to Duncan that we would be here. Miles will be wondering why she's staying in town an extra night."
"Duncan's smart. She'll think of something."
"Time to go," Bass says. Getting up, they made their way back to the capitol building.
Frank's secretary announced them, and they were escorted into his office. "Bass, Charlie, come in, come in. Well, Rev. Stone has agreed to do the ceremony for you. He can do it tomorrow if you like."
"That would be perfect, Frank, thank you," Bass tells him.
"How does 1:00 sound? My calendar will be clear by then. Do you know where you would like to have the ceremony? You can have it right here if you like."
"Actually, Bass and I were walking through Zilker Park and noticed a lovely gazebo by the lake. Could we get married there?"
"I don't see why not. I'm President; I can pretty much do what I want," he snorted. I'll have the Rangers secure it. Meet us there tomorrow at 1:00, and we'll get you two lovebirds hitched."
Bass and Charlie headed back to the hotel. "What do we tell Miles?" Charlie asked. "He's going to be expecting us to leave with them."
"That's up to you. Personally, I don't want to hear it, Charlie. I'm tired of all the bullshit. I don't want this ruined for us."
"Let's not tell him then. We'll tell everyone after we get back to camp, just before we leave."
When Bass and Charlie returned to the hotel, Miles was waiting for them in the lobby.
"Hey, Miles," Charlie says, giving him a hug.
"Hey, Kid…Bass…"
"Miles…" Bass responds.
"What have you two been up to?"
"Did some shopping, checked out the park and the lake. It's nice." Charlie answers.
"Can we go somewhere to talk?" Miles asks.
Bass nodded. "The Park, across the street."
They settled at a picnic table under a big shade tree near the lake.
"Bass, won't you reconsider Frank's offer? We could work together."
"No."
"Bass…" Miles knew that Bass was planning to leave, and he also knew that Charlie would go with him. He was hoping to at least keep Charlie close.
"No, Miles. Look, you can barely stand to be with me as it is, let alone work together. We tried the General thing once before, remember? Didn't end so well."
"This would be different; we would be answering to someone. We'll have a boss."
"I can't be looking over my shoulder constantly to see if I will be shot in the back. The bitch has already tried...twice. If it wasn't for the bodyguard that Duncan put on me, I'd be dead, and you know it. Nope. I don't want that life anymore. I'm done. I'm leaving Miles; we're leaving."
Miles is starting to get irritated. "So, you're going to take Charlie away from us when you have an opportunity to stay. You're going to take her away from her mother, her only child?" tossing a low blow.
"Really, Miles? Gonna go with the 'I lost Danny' or the 'she's all I have card'?" Charlie says, irritated. "If she cares so much, why hasn't she ever come by the camp to see me? Why has she never asked how I feel or how I'm doing? And, furthermore, Bass isn't taking me anywhere; I'm going because that is what I want."
"Come on, Charlie, you know that she won't go to Duncan's as long as Bass' there."
"Okay, that's true, but Miles, I've been to your camp many times, and she would barely look at me, let alone talk to me. I would never ask Bass to stay and continue to put up with her abuse and death threats. I'm sorry, Miles, I love Bass; if you and Mom can't accept us as a couple…well, there's nothing more to say. You will always be special to me, Miles, but we have to go."
Bass' heart swelled at Charlie's words of support, and he reached for her hand.
"Umm, actually, we'll be staying an extra night," Charlie told her uncle. Miles looked at her. "Just want another day to enjoy the city."
"I have to get back to camp, so you'll be traveling on your own, I guess."
"Not a big deal, Miles. Not like it's the first time," Bass says. "See ya at dinner?"
Miles groaned and had nothing more to say. "I'll see you back at the hotel. I should be heading out by 8:00 tomorrow morning," he practically stomped as he walked away.
The four of them met in the dining room for dinner, and surprisingly, the conversation flowed easily, which was nice. As dinner broke up, Charlie asked Duncan to go for a drink. They settled in a pub that wasn't far from the hotel, ordered drinks, and found a table by the large windows looking out over the street.
"Why do I have the feeling that there is something that you want to talk to me about?" Duncan asked.
"Well, you know that Bass and I are engaged."
Duncan smiled, "Old news."
"The reason Bass and I are staying an extra day is that we are going to be married tomorrow afternoon."
"Not wasting any time…."
"We wanted to be married before we leave for Oklahoma."
"So, you're leaving. Does Miles know?"
"Yeah, he knows. We can't stay. You know what my mother is like. She's not going to change, she'll never leave us alone, and I can't ask Bass to live like that."
"You always have a place with the Clan."
"Yes, and thank you, but we want a fresh start. Maybe a house, no more living in a tent."
"So, Oklahoma Territory…."
"Yeah, Bass is hoping that it will be far enough from the Republic that he'll be left alone. Maybe even not have to be 'Jimmy King'."
"I wish you both the best."
"Actually, I was wondering if you would be willing to stand with me tomorrow?"
Duncan smiled, reached across the table, and squeezed Charlie's hand. "I would be honored to. Miles doesn't know about the wedding, does he."
"No."
"Are you going to tell him?"
"Bass and I talked about telling him, but Bass is sick of his bullshit when it comes to the both of us. It hurts. They were brothers, always having each other's backs. The Republic broke them. Miles can't seem to get past what happened there."
"It's a shame. Where would you like me tomorrow?"
"There's a gazebo in the park, near the lake. The wedding is a 1:00."
"I'll be there."
They finished their drinks and headed back to the hotel. As they were walking, the lantern lighters were lighting the streetlamps giving everything a soft glow.
Bass had been waiting for Charlie in the hotel's lobby, and he stood when they walked in.
"Everything good?"
"All good," Charlie replied.
Duncan gave him a quick hug. "Congratulations, Sebastian. I'll see you tomorrow." She left for her room.
"Can we walk a bit before we head up? It's a beautiful night."
Bass put an arm around her and kissed her temple. "Of Course."
Instead of going to her room, Duncan went looking for Miles and found him sitting in the hotel's lounge with the ever-present whiskey. She had debated telling him about the wedding. She knows Charlie and Bass are concerned about his reaction, but she feels that it's something that they all will come to regret. Miles should be allowed to make up his own mind. She had seen his attitude towards Bass changing slowly. Duncan knew how much Charlie meant to him and whether he wanted to admit it or not, Bass too. She made her decision…Miles should have the chance to make up his own mind about the wedding.
"Matheson! May I join you?"
Miles nodded to the seat next to him at the bar.
"Whiskey, neat," Duncan orders when the bartender comes over.
"You, know, you really should ease up on Charlie and Bass."
"Duncan, I just can't see them together. She's my niece. He's known her since she was born; it's just too… creepy. It feels wrong. And to top it off, he's a mess. She doesn't need that. What if he goes off the rails again? Where does that leave her? Somewhere in shits splat Oklahoma?"
"She's a big girl, Miles. All grown up. If he loses it again, she'll deal with it. She's strong. One of the strongest people I know. Think about what she's gone through for someone her age. This world has made her an old soul.
Miles, I'm going to tell you something, and I need you to keep it together."
"Oh…Fuck!… God! That dickhead got her pregnant!"
Duncan just shook her head, "No, she's not pregnant, but she is getting married tomorrow."
"They just couldn't wait, could they. What's the fucking rush if she's not pregnant?"
"What? You were hoping she'd change her mind? Fat chance. The rush is, after the wedding tomorrow, they're leaving, heading out west looking for a new start. They want to be married before they go. You need to be there tomorrow, at least for her. And you still consider Bass your brother? You should be there for him. It's where you belong."
Miles scowled into his drink, then shook his head. "I'll think about it."
"Don't ruin this for them, Matheson. Let them have this day. If you can't be civil, don't go."
Duncan finished her drink and headed for her room.
That night as Bass and Charlie lay curled up next to each other, they talked excitedly about their wedding and their future together. They would be married then spend one more night in Austin before setting out for Duncan's camp the day after. Then after gathering their meager possessions and saying goodbye, they would head out towards Oklahoma Territory, thinking that it would be far enough away from the Republic that maybe people wouldn't care. Charlie didn't care where they were going as long as they were together.
April 25, 2031
Charlie, Bass, Miles, and Duncan met for breakfast in the morning. "So…" Bass says, "You will be heading out later this morning?"
"Yeah, If you change your mind about staying, we'll be camping in the same spot that we used on the way down," Miles answers. "What are you planning on doing?" Miles knows damn well what he's doing.
"Just relaxing, maybe some more shopping. Spend some time in the park." Charlie replies. "I really like it there; it's peaceful."
After breakfast, Duncan said goodbye, saying that she would see them back at the camp. Miles asked Charlie if she would be stopping by the Matheson camp when she got back.
"I'm sure that I'll be around," she answered noncommittally.
After Miles checked out, Bass took over his room for the day, moving his things so that Charlie would have some privacy getting ready for the wedding. They each ordered a bath. Bass kissed her goodbye and told her that he would meet her in the lobby at quarter to one.
After Miles checked out of his room, he went in search of a bottle. He tucked himself into a corner of the lobby to watch and think.
Bass made his way to the lobby to wait for Charlie. He had been anxiously watching the stairs, then there she was. He was speechless when he saw her, wearing that dress, her hair partially up, curls flowing over one shoulder…she was so beautiful. Walking over to her, he met her at the bottom of the stairs and brought her into an embrace, kissing her cheek.
"My God, Charlotte, I didn't think that you could possibly get more beautiful, yet here you are."
"Thank you. You're looking quite handsome yourself." His hair and beard trimmed, wearing his new white shirt and jeans.
"Ready to get hitched?" Bass asks.
"More than." A quick kiss, and they left hand in hand for the park.
Miles had been watching the exchange between the two and was becoming even more uneasy seeing them all dressed up. This was really happening. He got up and followed them.
As they walked into the park, there was a woman with a small cart selling fresh flowers. Bass stopped and bought a bouquet of wildflowers for Charlie. "A bride should have flowers." Charlie smiled and kissed his cheek. "Thank you."
Walking across the park, hand in hand, they could see Frank and Jessica, along with Franks security team, waiting near the gazebo. Duncan was there as well. Frank welcomed her and introduced her to his wife, Jessica, who was more than happy to step aside so Duncan could stand with Charlie.
Miles hung back, tucked behind a large tree. He groaned at what he was seeing. (I can't believe this…God damn it! I know Duncan said it was happening, but seeing… I'm not drunk enough.)
Frank was dressed in a white shirt and string tie sporting large turquoise stone and gray slacks. Mrs. Blanchard, an attractive woman of about sixty, with light brown hair streaked with a touch of gray. She was wearing an azure blue dress that matched her very blue eyes. Duncan was in her leather jacket and pants.
As they approached the gazebo, Frank stepped over to greet them. "Don't you two look just fine. I'd like you to meet my wife, Jessica. Jessica, this is the infamous Sebastian Monroe and Miles Matheson's niece, Charlotte Matheson."
"Frank, really?" Bass says to him.
"Oh, pipe it, Monroe. That's your name, isn't it?"
"Frank, behave. Pleased to meet you both," Jessica Blanchard says. "Charlotte, you look lovely."
"Thank you, Mrs. Blanchard. Please, call me Charlie."
"It's Jessica, please."
Charlie turned to Duncan and exchanged a hug. "Thank you," and she hands her the bouquet and steps in front of Bass.
"Okay! Let's get this party roll'n!" Frank declares. "Bass, Charlotte, this is Reverend Stone."
"Reverend, thank you for helping us," Bass says.
"It's my pleasure. It's delightful to see that some still revere the institution of marriage. Since the blackout, so many have decided to abandon it. So…are we ready?"
"Absolutely," Bass responds with enthusiasm.
"I am," Charlie answers, looking up at Bass.
"Sebastian, do you have any words for Charlotte?"
"I do."
Duncan was disappointed that Miles couldn't put aside his issues to be here with his niece and once brother and best friend. She had hoped that he would.
Miles was still watching from nearby, half-hidden behind a tree. (Oh, hell.) He thought somewhat out loud. (I belong up there standing with my brother…and Charlie.) Stealing himself, he leaves his spot of concealment and walks toward the nuptials that are about to occur. Not that he's happy about it.
Bass noticed the movement near the big tree and stiffened. Charlie picked up on his change in demeanor and looked in the same direction as Bass. Surprised and concerned to see Miles striding purposely towards them.
"Matheson, if you plan on causing a ruckus and undermining this ceremony, my security team will be escorting you away," Frank tells him.
"Miles…?" Bass says, looking at him, expecting trouble.
"No trouble. I'm here to stand up with my brother and niece. Don't think that I approve, but I belong here."
Bass' who has always been emotional, his eyes fill, and a tear escapes. Charlie smiles and embraces her uncle. "Thank you, Miles."
Frank smiles his approval while Miles settles himself next to Bass. Rev. Stone welcomed Miles and then asked if they were ready to proceed.
"Sebastian, you were going to begin…."
Bass is beaming as he takes Charlie's hands in his. He couldn't remember the last time that he was this happy. "Charlotte, I had been lost and so dark for so long that I thought that I would never see the light again. Then you fell into my life, literally," he chuckles. "After Pottsboro, I knew. I knew that I was in love with you. Even when you were trying to kill me. You are such a force of nature, strong, stubborn, determined with a big heart, and beautiful. You forgave me for the unforgivable and made me whole again. I love you, and I can't say it enough. You are my light, my hope, my life. Please, don't ever leave me. I love you."
Charlie is quietly crying, and Bass wipes her tears with his thumbs. "Bass…Sebastian," she smiles, knowing how much he likes hearing his full name from her. "How I hated you, hated you with every fiber of my being. I was so angry that it consumed me. You were my demon responsible for all that was wrong with my life. Then there was Pottsboro, and I began to see through your darkness, see another side of you. You took care of me with gentleness even after I was vile to you, tried to kill you. But during our journey together, after Pottsboro, I saw that you were just a man, a man with many… so many… demons of his own. A man who was hurting and lost his way. You showed me that the world is not black and white but shades of gray. Like all of us, you were a product of a world gone crazy. I knew for sure that I loved you when you were executed." Rev. Stone blinked at that. "And my heart broke. But you were brought back to me, a second chance. We've fought together, side by side, watched over each other, loved each other. You have made me so incredibly happy, and I promise that I will never leave you. I love you; you are my everything."
Smiling at the couple, the Reverend continues with the ceremony. Jessica Blanchard wipes a tear, and even Duncan has a lump in her throat. Miles is beginning to get it, sort of.
"Sebastian Monroe, are you taking Charlotte Matheson as your wife, to have and to hold from this day forward and for as long as you both shall live?"
"I am."
"Charlotte Matheson, are you taking Sebastian Monroe as your husband, to have and to hold from this day forward and for as long as you both shall live?"
"I am."
Then Frank stepped forward and handed Bass' parent's rings to the Reverend, surprising Charlie. She wasn't expecting another ring. He then gives Charlie's ring to Bass.
"Sebastian, repeat after me, 'take this ring as a symbol of my love and everlasting fidelity."
Bass repeats the phrase and slips the ring on Charlie's finger, then kissing her finger.
Then he has Charlotte repeat the same. She slips Bass's ring on his finger.
"With the power invested in me by the Great Republic of Texas, Sebastian, Charlotte, I pronounce you husband and wife. I present Mr. and Mrs. Monroe. Sebastian, you may kiss your bride."
Bass is beaming as he takes Charlie in his arms and takes his time kissing her.
Miles' looking uncomfortable, fidgets during the kiss, then steps forward and extends his hand to Bass, shakes his hand but is still not able to say congratulations. Then hugs Charlie. "You look beautiful."
"Miles, thanks, it meant a lot; you're being here," Bass says.
"Matheson, will you be joining us for lunch?" Frank asks.
"No, I've got to be heading out."
"Ms. Paige, ah… Duncan… will you join us?"
"Thank you, but I need to be heading out as well. Sebastian, Charlie, I'll see you back at the camp. Congratulations."
Both Charlie and Bass give her a quick hug. "Thanks, Duncan."
"Miles, thank you for standing with us. Will you be telling Mom?" Charlie asks.
"No way, that's on you." Then he embraced Charlie in a hug before shaking hands with Frank and walking away from the group.
Bass turned to Rev. Stone and offered him a small pouch of diamonds.
"Sebastian, thank you, but I can't accept this. I don't charge for God's work."
"Consider it a donation for your church then. Will you join us for lunch?"
"Thank you, it would be a pleasure."
Frank had one more surprise for them, his photographers. Blanchard arranged for a few wedding photos. Bass and Charlie were almost speechless. After a few pictures were taken, Frank and Jessica treated them to lunch at the best restaurant in Austin. They also gave them another night paid at the hotel.
"Frank, we can't thank you and Mrs. Blanchard enough for making this day special for us," Bass says.
"Monroe, your welcome. It was fun."
Frank took the couple to the finest restaurant in Austin. He had champagne for them and even a small traditional wedding cake. Bass and Charlie were thrilled. Crazy Frank had made sure that everything was perfect for them.
"When will you be leaving Austin?" Jessica Blanchard asks.
"Tomorrow after we pick up a few more things that we need," Bass replies. "Frank, you wouldn't happen to know where we could get a pack mule, would you?".
Frank laughed, "A pack mule? Why not a wagon?"
"A mule will give us more options should we need to leave the road." Bass replies.
"Makes sense. I'll write you a requisition. Go to the Ranger's stables just outside of town. We have a few. Ask the stable hands which one would be best. Consider it a wedding gift."
"Thank you. You have been more than generous."
"Finish getting your provisions, then stop by the office, and I'll have the paperwork ready for you."
"Frank, I don't know what to say. Thank you, thank you for everything," Charlie says.
"Your pictures should be ready in the morning; I'll have them delivered to the hotel."
The meal finished, they all stood and said their goodbyes with Charlie thanking Jessica Blanchard again for her part in their wedding.
"So…what do you say, Mrs. Monroe? Shall we head to the hotel?"
"You know it," she said, chuckling.
Arriving at their room, Bass unlocks the door then stops Charlie from going through. "Bass?" She giggles as he quickly scoops her up, carries her in, shuts the door with his foot, and places her on the bed. "It's a tradition," kissing her and then celebrating their marriage.