Still not quite believing it all, the smiling faces of the congregation, the archbishop's words, Sebastian's congratulations, Clarisse found herself practically clinging to Joseph as they made their way back down the aisle. Her mind was racing, and yet she could think of nothing. The faces seemed to blur, the noise almost unbearable, and for a moment she wondered if she might not faint. A gentle squeeze on her hand brought her back to reality, and she turned to smile at him. Her husband. It took all her years of restraint and calm, dignified propriety for her not to lose it and simply bounce up and down in excitement.

Joseph, being far more accustomed, indeed trained, to deal with unexpected circumstances, was taking it all in his stride and looking like a pro. Nodding to the guests as the moved gracefully down the aisle, he allowed himself a moment of smugness. He couldn't deny it, it did feel good to finally show the world what she felt for him, what he felt for her. Glancing down a moment, he smiled as he noticed how her hands were still shaking. Placing his own warm hand over her cool, trembling fingers, he tried to calm her a little. Whispering discreetly, he tried to distract her,

"You know…I could really do with a cup of tea, round about now…"

By the time they had reached the rear of the church, Clarisse had stopped laughing and had managed to recompose herself somewhat. Stepping across, a grin plastered widely across her face, Charlotte congratulated them. Bending slightly towards Clarisse, she asked in a discreetly hushed voice whether they would prefer to leave in the open carriage or the car in which they had arrived.

For a moment Clarisse was unsure; the carriage had been intended for Mia and Andrew, and the parade through the streets was the traditional ending to a royal wedding. It would also have been the perfect opportunity for the new couple to meet their future subjects. And yet now, hmm…it would be traditional to ride in the carriage, but then again, it would also be unexpected. And in any case, she smiled, feeling Joe's arm slip gently around the small of her back, what she really wanted now was to be alone…well, almost alone.

Opening her mouth to speak though, it was Joseph who cut her off and with a serious expression suggested that the car would be a safer option. Clarisse smiled, feeling instantly the idle stroke of his thumb on her back,

"But Joseph, I…I think people will be expecting pictures…"

He looked disappointed,

"Really? But they have many pictures of you…surely a few less won't matter."

Charlotte giggled, realising that he was only teasing, and decided to join in herself,

"Um, Joe, I think they might want some pictures of you…"

He shrugged, running a hand nervously across his tie,

"Really? Hmm…but I didn't even get my hair done!"

Turning to face him, desperately trying not to burst out laughing, Clarisse nodded solemnly.

"Very well, the car it is. But we will agree to pose for photos later?"

He nodded back, his eyes lifting cheekily to wink at Charlotte, who quickly disappeared to make an announcement to the press.

OoOoOoOoO

As the guards stepped back to let them pass, Joseph and Clarisse walked through the anterooms towards the main doors of the church. Surprisingly, the area was almost deserted, save a few minor security personnel in the corners, and immediately Clarisse relaxed. Joseph's hand was still tenderly guiding her, and she leant back against him slightly. Slowing her steps a little, knowing full well the onslaught that would face them as soon as the doors were opened, she took the opportunity to whisper carefully,

"Are…are you alright, darling?"

Her hesitation was endearing, her self-doubt still so apparent. Sliding his arm from her back, and taking her hand in his, he gently kissed her fingers. She turned then, and they halted in their steps, just for a moment. As he smiled, she shivered slightly, feeling suddenly the chilliness of the darkened rooms. In an instant, his free arm was holding her tight, his fingers stroking her neck.

"Clarisse…my love…you've made me the happiest man in the world, and you ask me whether I'm alright?"

She smiled slightly, still holding his gaze though, the seriousness lingering,

"Yes, I'm asking if you're alright…I…I rather sprung this on you."

He raised an eyebrow, and pulled her a little nearer. Not caring if they had an audience, he pressed a chaste kiss to her forehead,

"Well then yes, darling, I am most certainly alright." He paused, stroking a finger tenderly down her nose, "And, darling, if this is your idea of a surprise, well…let's just say you can surprise me whenever you want."

He felt her relax even more, and to his surprise she wrapped her arms around his waist, her head coming to rest on his chest. He smiled, pleased that she was no longer shaking, irritated slightly by the fact that their moment would be lost in a few seconds.

Reading his mind, Clarisse pulled back and ran a hand cautiously over her hair-do. He smiled and pretended to primp his own elaborate hairstyle. With a grin she shook her head, and proceeded to straighten his tie, and then smooth down the lapels of his jacket. It was nothing, just a gesture, but for a moment Joe was lost. Her preening complete, she was surprised to find him staring at her, his eyes a little teary, but full of longing,

"I love you, Clarisse"

She smiled, nodding discreetly, suddenly aware of their audience,

"And I you, my darling." She brought her hand to cup his cheek, running her thumb tantalizingly close to his lips, "…but not here…just a few minutes more…"

He blinked deliberately and took her hand once more, leading her towards the door,

"Well then, let's get this show on the road…"

a/n There will be three more chapters now: the car trip to the palace; the evening; and then the morning after. Hopefully I'll get the next one up by tomorrow (it's already planned and half-written…and it's longer than this one!)

Please leave me a review if you have time – I really appreciate the feedback! Nic.x