1A/N: THANK YOU TO ALL THE REVIEWERS. THIS IS THE FINALCHAPTER.
Finding My Son, Finding Myself
Chapter Fourteen
The family arose early Sunday morning, quickly having coffee and pastries before heading off for Mass at 9:00 a.m. At the conclusion of the service, Maria Elena, holding Bobby's hand, approached Father Perez. He knew Maria Elena's personal history, having counseled her from time to time over the years, just as a sympathetic ear when she needed someone other than her parents to talk to about things. He knew the Vasquez family well and had even Baptized and given 'Berto his First Communion.
The priest looked curiously at the couple as they drew nearer. In all those years, he had never seen Maria Elena in the company of a man — and then he saw Bobby's face – and eyes; and then he saw her beaming smile– and he knew that this was Roberto's father.
"Good morning, Father," she smiled.
"Good morning, Maria Elena, Rosa, Carlos, 'Berto," he said with a smile and a nod. He was still looking at Bobby's face. He couldn't believe the resemblance.
"Father, I'd like you to meet Robert."
Bobby extended his hand to the priest, "It's nice to meet you, Father."
"It's a pleasure meeting you," he replied, as he shook Bobby's hand; his eyes shifting back and forth between the faces of father and son. He then looked at Maria Elena, seeking confirmation, "This is your Robert?"
"Yes," she said, her smile even brighter than before, " 'Berto's Daddy, my Robert."
The priest turned his attention back towards Bobby, "It's wonderful to finally meet you, Robert; Maria Elena has told me so much about you."
Maria informed Bobby, "Father Perez knows our whole story, sweetie," she then extended her left hand, showing the priest her bejeweled ring finger.
"Congratulations," he offered, kissing her cheek and shaking Bobby's hand once again.
"Father, Bobby and I are getting married next Sunday. We're hoping that you're available..."
"We'd love for you to do the ceremony, Father," Rosa interjected, looking on lovingly towards the couple, "They want to get married on the beach — at sunset."
"I'm glad you said 'sunset' 'cause I have a three o'clock wedding already scheduled," he said, placing a reassurance hand on Rosa's shoulder.
"I'd be honored to perform your ceremony," he said with a smile, looking at the happy little boy standing between his happier looking parents. "I'll call you during the week for the details. I've gotta' get running now – don't want to be late for my hospital visits."
"Thank you, Father Perez," they said collectively.
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The family headed back to the house. Rosa and Maria Elena were going to fix a more substantial breakfast for the family and Bobby needed to begin making his phone calls.
Alex had been number one on his list, but she already knew — and so did Sanchez. Bobby reminded himself to call her again to see how her dinner date really went.
So, his best friend, Lewis was moved up to 'first' call on the list. When Bobby told Lewis that he was getting married the following Sunday, of course Lewis thought he was kidding. Until Bobby told him to whom, and that he had an 11 year old son. Lewis was Bobby's life-long friend, since childhood. He was there for Bobby when he went through the terrible ordeal of losing Maria Elena twelve years earlier. He had never seen his friend so devastated or depressed and as the years passed, it was more than a sore subject with Bobby — it was a totally forbidden subject and "to never mention it again" had become the only rule of their friendship. Obviously, Lewis wouldn't miss this happiest of moments in his best buddy's life.
Bobby then spoke with Captain Deakins, who insisted on putting Cathy on the line, as well. They were surprised at the suddenness – but pleasantly so and very happy for Bobby. The ordeal that they had been through brought a new level of closeness to their friendship. They assured him that they would be in attendance, as did Ron and Debbie Carver and Dave and Nancy Morris.
The family spent a quite Sunday together, making last-minute plans. The day flew by and, at 9:00 p.m. Maria Elena interrupted Bobby and 'Berto's Play Station game, " 'Berto, time to stop playing, honey – take your shower and get your PJ's on – you've got school tomorrow, so I want you in bed early."
"But Mom," came the pleading whine, "Daddy and I are in the middle of our game."
" 'Berto," she cautioned, with a reprimanding tone to her voice.
"That's okay, buddy," Bobby said. "You listen to your Mom, we can play again tomorrow."
The boy grudgingly got up from the sofa and headed out of the living room, passing by his mother, who gave him a quick peck on the cheek, "That's my good boy."
Roberto turned and reminded Bobby, "Dad, you have to get up early, too – you promised you'd walk me to school."
"Don't worry, 'Berto. Your mom and I will be up early; we have a lot of things to take care of tomorrow," he said with a smile and wink at Maria Elena.
Later in the evening, before turning in himself, Bobby phoned Alex. "Hey, it's me."
"Hi you! How's it going?"
"Great. Did you get a flight?
"Well, I wanted to talk to you about that."
Bobby's heart sank 'Could it be she's not coming?' he questioned himself.
"Actually, Darius is booking our flight. We're flying down together on Friday. I'm, umm, I'm gonna' stay at his parents' house."
Bobby paused for a moment, picking his words carefully, "So, I guess that means your dinner date went okay the other night."
"It did, as a matter of fact. You were right — he's a great guy."
"Did, umm, anything happen after dinner?"
Alex knew what he was trying to get at, but wouldn't give him the satisfaction of a forthright answer. If there was one thing she loved when she was in a playful mood, it was teasing Bobby during one of their verbal "duels." "We went dancing."
"And what happened after that?"
"Dessert."
"You're not gonna' tell me, are ya'?" Bobby sighed. He was glad that the two of them hit it off, but felt a small twinge of —something. It wasn't jealousy — he decided it was just his habit of overprotectiveness towards Alex kicking in.
"So, umm, he's gonna' be my date for the wedding, too."
"So, something did happen," Bobby thought to himself, but only said to her, "Th-th-that's good. Wh-what time are you getting here Friday?"
"I don't know yet – he was trying to get a morning flight out. He might still call me later – or at work tomorrow."
"Hey, Eames?"
"What?"
"Lewis is gonna' be disappointed you're bringin' a date," he teased her.
"I'll save a dance for him," she teased back. "Well, I guess you guys have a busy week in store for ya'. If I don't talk to you during the week, I guess I'll see ya' Friday — we'll call ya' when we get into San Juan."
"The weekend can't get here soon enough," Bobby sighed.
"G'night, Bobby."
"G'night Eames."
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Bobby and 'Berto had left in plenty of time and took a leisurely morning walk to school, talking and still getting to know each other better. Bobby had taken note of the black car that seemed to have slowed down, following them as they walked along. Bobby ushered 'Berto to the inside of the sidewalk, away from the curb and kept a hand on his shoulder. The car eventually sped slightly ahead and pulled over to the curb. A large, black-haired man exited and blocked the sidewalk several feet in front of them. "Are you all right, Roberto?
"Hi Mr. Olivera!" 'Berto exclaimed, as Bobby breathed a sigh of relief. He tugged on his father's hand, "C'mon Dad, it's Mr. Olivera, my Principal."
Bobby approached the man and extended hand. "I'm Robert Goren – 'B-Berto's father."
The Principal hesitated for a moment, trying to read 'Berto's face to make sure everything was all right. The boy's smile was beaming; he certainly wasn't afraid of the large man standing by his side. He returned Bobby's hand shake, "Pedro Olivera, I'm the Principal at Roberto's school. Nice to meet you."
The man still looked skeptical, an almost embarrassed look coming over his face. "I'm sorry, Mr. ..."
"Goren, Robert Goren."
"Mr. Goren. Would it be possible for you to show me some identification?"
Bobby smiled and reached into his pocket, as 'Berto chimed in, "My Dad's a Policeman from New York."
Bobby handed over his credentials for the Principal to inspect. The Principal reached for his cell phone, "Berto, what's your home phone number?" The boy recited it, as Bobby looked on, a bit incredulously.
Back at the house, Rosa Vasquez answered the phone.
"Hello, Mrs. Vasquez? This is Principal Olivera from Roberto's school..." The man went on to explain how he had encountered 'Berto and Mr. Goren and was just making sure that everything was all right. He got his confirmation and ended the call, handing Bobby back his ID.
"I apologize," he sincerely said.
"It-it's all right," Bobby assured.
"It's just that – well, we at the school have gotten accustomed to keeping an extra-special eye on Roberto," the man explained.
'Berto looked up at his father, "In case Uncle Benny or the bad men came for me and mommy," he said.
"I know," Bobby told his son, "but we don't have to worry about that any more."
The Principal looked on quizzically at Bobby's comment but chose, for the moment, not to press for an explanation. He made a mental note to ask Maria Elena about it the next time they met.
"Well, as long as everything is all right, I'll be on my way. I'll see you later at assembly, 'Berto."
The Principal drove off and Bobby and 'Berto continued on their way to the school yard. Bobby was grateful for the good community of people who had been watching over his son, but he was even more grateful that it was now his duty.
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The week was a flurry of activity. On Monday, Bobby and Maria Elena had their blood tests and applied for their marriage license; they purchased a beautiful set of platinum wedding bands at the jewelry store downtown and Bobby got measured for his tux. After stopping for lunch, they met with Isabel to see her ideas about the floral arrangements for the reception and for Maria Elena's bouquet.
On Tuesday, they went shopping in San Juan and Maria Elena selected an evening gown at a small boutique. It was simply elegant; a form-fitting white strapless gown, with hand sewn pearls on the bodice. Her Aunt (who was the co-owner of her salon) promised to do Maria Elena's hair on Sunday morning. They had decided that the front of her hair would be pulled back and to hold it in place, adorned with pearl decorated hair pins to match her dress. At the back of her head, her long, wavy hair would be left to freely cascade down her back.
Wednesday was the low point of the week; an emotionally tiring day, as Benny's body was returned to Puerto Rico for burial in the small cemetery adjacent to their church. There was a grave side prayer service, attended only by Carlos, Rosa and her three sisters, and Maria Elena and Bobby. In fact, Maria Elena's parents had told her that it would be all right if she didn't attend, but she wanted to be there for her mother's sake, if only for support. Bobby felt the same way. He chose to attend, just as a show of emotional support for his mother-in-law. No matter how bad Benny was, no matter how many terrible things he did during his life, he was still Carlos' and Rosa's son.
Carlos was grateful for all the commotion caused by the wedding planning – it kept Rosa distracted from the loss of her son and gave her a happy event to look forward to.
On Thursday, Carlos and Bobby spent a few hours together. They went downtown and talked over lunch, stopped by City Hall to pick up their license, then Bobby wanted to go back to the jewelry store where they had purchased their wedding bands. He had seen a couple of items he wanted to buy: One, a wedding gift for Maria Elena and; two, a gift for Alex, for the countless 'thanks' he felt he owed her for everything over the past five years. He couldn't wait until the next day. Eames would be arriving and he'd finally be able to introduce her to Maria Elena and 'Berto and he'd be attending his first official father/son event.
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Bobby took a sip of his iced tea and asked Maria Elena the time.
"It's quarter to two." She knew Bobby was anxious. "Why don't you just call her?" Maria asked, just as Bobby's cell phone starting ringing.
"Hey, you here?"
"Yeah, we got in a few minutes late. We're on our way to Darius' house, then we were gonna' head over to see you."
"Good," he answered enthusiastically. "What time do you think you'll get here? 'Berto gets out of school in an hour."
"Darius says we should be there by then," she assured him. "And umm, obviously, he knows the way," she chuckled. "We'll see ya' in a bit," she said, flipping her phone closed.
Bobby smiled at Maria. "They're gonna' be here by the time 'Berto gets out of school. Y,you're really gonna' like her."
She scooted over closer on the swing, giving him a kiss. "I'm sure I will."
Maria Elena watched Bobby over the next forty-five minutes or so, amused by his impatience. He was pacing on the porch, rubbing his hands through his hair, until they finally spotted the now-familiar sedan driving up to the house. As Sanchez pulled the car into the driveway, Bobby and Maria descended the porch steps, watching as Darius went to the passenger side and opened the car door for Alex. She was already smiling. It was good to see Bobby — even if he had only been gone for a week. And Bobby looked happier and more rested than she had ever seen him.
They kissed each other's cheeks and quickly hugged 'hello.' Bobby then took a step back and returned to Maria Elena's side. "Maria Elena, this is my partner, Alex Eames and, umm, you kinda' already ran into my friend, Darius, Darius Sanchez."
Maria Elena smiled at the two, returning Sanchez' handshake and giving Alex a welcoming hug. "It's so good to meet you. Welcome."
"It's a pleasure meeting you," Alex said, smiling as she gave Maria Elena the once over, concurring with Sanchez' description: she was absolutely beautiful. Nobody but Bobby would've have noticed Eames' expression – she was such a subtle but keen observer. Bobby watched, amused, and finally saw the 'approval' in her eyes.
"So?" Alex asked, sounding almost impatient.
Maria Elena and Darius looked at her, waiting for more.
Only Bobby had understood the one-syllable question. His and Eames' thinking was always in tune. "He'll be here any minute. Maria's parents are picking him up from school," Bobby answered.
"Come," Maria invited, gesturing towards the house, "there's fresh iced tea and cookies on the porch."
They sat and chatted while waiting for 'Berto, Alex taking note of Bobby and Maria's body language – they were sweet together. She had almost forgotten, but finally said, "Maria, I almost forgot, lemme' see your ring." Maria got up with a smile and walked over to Alex's seat, holding out her hand for Alex and Darius to see.
"Wow, that is exquisite," she said, admiring the stone. "Congratulations, again. Wear it in good health."
"Thank you," Maria smiled.
"Yeah, it's beautiful," Darius added, turning his head to watch the Vasquez' car pull into the driveway.
"Here they are," Bobby said, smiling as he watched the back door fly open and 'Berto run up the walk. Bobby had gotten up to meet him and 'Berto charged up the stairs towards him with a hug and kiss hello. He stood between Bobby and Maria Elena, as Maria kissed his head.
"Roberto, this is Aunt Alex."
The boy walked towards Alex's seat and bent over gently, kissing her cheek. "Hi, it's nice to meet you," his little voice said.
"Well, it's nice to meet you, too, Roberto." Alex couldn't stop looking at the boy, thinking to herself, "Geez, Darius told me the resemblance was uncanny, but this is..." 'Berto's little voice interrupted her thought.
"Thank you, ma'am. You look just like my Dad described. You're pretty." A bit of shyness overtook him and he went back to stand between his parents.
Alex smiled.
Darius leaned towards Alex, whispering in her ear, "See? Didn't I tell you — it's freaky."
Carlos and Rosa had joined everyone on the porch and Bobby handled those introductions, as well.
"You're staying for dinner, aren't you?" Rosa asked.
Alex and Darius traded a glance. "We don't wanna' intrude," Alex said.
"Don't be silly! We're all family now," Rosa insisted.
Alex saw Bobby's little nod – he wanted her to say "yes."
"Okay," Alex and Darius said in unison. "Thanks – we'd love to."
Their dinner was casual and filled with conversation. 'Berto was very curious about Alex, never having met a police woman before. He kept her engaged with a dozen questions, which she didn't mind answering; all the while feeling as if she was being interrogated by a "Little Bobby."
After she cleared the dessert dishes, Rosa reminded Bobby of the time.
"Yeah, we'd better get going soon."
"Oh, that's right," Alex said, remembering, "It's your big father/son camp out at school tonight."
"Yes, Aunt Alex. And we're gonna' have a bonfire and toast marshmallows and watch a movie and tell scary stories," Berto answer, full of excitement.
"Well, that sounds like a lot of fun," Darius said.
"Sorry, we have to be leaving," Bobby apologized.
"That's okay, this is a big event for you" Alex said to Bobby. "It was nice to get together for dinner and meet all of you."
"There's a dinner tomorrow night at Maria Elena's uncle's restaurant. It's — you know, a get-together for everybody the night before the wedding," Bobby said, with a smile towards Maria.
"We'll be there!" Sanchez said. "What's the name of the place?"
Maria Elena answered, "It's El Ladrillo, it's downtown, 334 Mendez Vigo, at 8 o'clock."
"I know the place," Sanchez said, "Great steaks."
Bobby shook Darius' hand. "Thanks for comin' man, an,an and thanks for taking care of everything for Alex."
"No problem," he answered, smiling at Alex.
Bobby leaned in to kiss and hug Alex. "Thanks for being here."
"You know I wouldn't miss it," she said, wrapping him in a return hug, patting his back. She whispered in his ear, "She's beautiful and he's adorable – I'm so happy for you."
"Thanks," he said in her ear, planting another little kiss.
They all said their good-byes and Bobby and 'Berto headed off to the school, as Alex and Darius pulled out of the driveway.
"Bobby, wait!" Maria Elena exclaimed, running towards him. She hugged him and whispered, so 'Berto couldn't hear, "I'm gonna' miss you being next to me tonight."
He held her face in his hands and kissed her softly. "I'm gonna' miss you, too."
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On Saturday morning, Bobby and 'Berto were back home by 9:00 a.m. Bobby's back was stiff from sleeping in their sleeping bags on the floor. 'Berto dashed into the house, "Mom! Oh, hi grandma, hi grandpa!"
"Hi there! You and your dad have fun?"
"Yeah, it was great!
Carlos gave Bobby a knowing smile, watching as he stiffly lowered himself onto the couch. "The gym floor is real comfortable, huh son?" he laughed.
Bobby smiled and nodded, rubbing his lower back.
Maria walked into the living room, kissing both of her 'boys' hello. She took over rubbing Bobby's back for him, as 'Berto filled them all in on the events of their 'camp out.'
"Can I get you breakfast, my two sweeties?"
"No thanks, Mom," 'Berto said, going to his bedroom to put his things away.
"They had umm, coffee and juice and muffins 'n stuff like that. All the dads were up by 6 o'clock – we couldn't wait to get off the floor," he laughed.
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By later in the morning, all of Bobby's friends had arrived in Puerto Rico and settled into their hotels. They used the day for sightseeing and shopping and relaxing by the pools or at the beach, not having to be at the dinner until 8:00 p.m. They were all grateful for their impromptu little "vacation" and took full advantage of the beautiful weather and scenery; especially Jim and Cathy Deakins, who were experiencing a reawakening of their romance and appreciation for each other after the recent ordeal she had survived — thanks to Bobby and Darius.
Everyone met at the restaurant that night and had a wonderful time. Maria's family and Bobby's friends hit it off as if they had known each other for years. Bobby felt a little bad –but just for a second, when Lewis realized that Alex was there with Darius. He played it cool, though, as Lewis always did, and quickly struck up a conversation with one of Maria's cousins, Maribel, whose father owned a service station; the two car buffs had plenty to talk about. Maria Elena's family got a better insight into Bobby and just how well liked and valued he was by his small circle of friends and co-workers and Bobby graciously suffered through their stories and good-natured ribbing as they 'roasted' their groom-to-be/guest of honor.
As the evening was winding down, Darius and Lewis got together and decided they wanted to bring Bobby out for a drink (or two or three) – it was his last night as a "single" man. "C'mon," Lewis said, "Let's round up Deakins and Carver and Morris and whatever guys from Maria's family wanna' come. The club back at my hotel looked great."
"All right, let's do it," Sanchez replied enthusiastically.
They rounded up the group of guys and arranged who was riding with whom. Darius felt a little guilty, at first, at the thought of leaving Alex behind, but she assured him it was all right – that they could go do their "guy thing" – she was gonna' go back to the Vasquez house and hang out with Maria Elena and Darius could pick her later, when he brought Bobby home. Cathy, Debbie and Nancy opted to return to their hotel and hang out by the pool or bar and have their own "ladies night."
The noisy group of men went on their way.
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Back at the house, Maria Elena finished tucking in 'Berto. She invited Alex into her bedroom to show her her dress and do some "girl talk." Alex noticed Bobby's items scattered about the room. It didn't bother her – it just seemed funny seeing it there. She thought back to the night she had packed his clothes for him and what a nervous wreck he had been.
"Sorry – it's kinda' messy," Maria apologized.
"That's okay, you should see my place by the end of the week," she laughed. "You must be so excited!"
"I am," she smiled. "It's the day I've been dreaming of – well, it feels like forever."
"Well, my partner sure looks happy — and well rested. That's something I rarely get to see."
"He told me he never got much sleep. You two work some crazy hours though! I'll tell you, I work at the salon from 10 to 6 and when I get home, I feel like I'm ready to drop."
Alex watched as Maria straightened up the room, folding and hanging away some clothes. She stood by the closet, putting Bobby's dark gray Milano Uomo shirt on a hanger. "He wore this one last Friday – when I saw him for the first time – with the little bit of gray he has in his hair now — he looked so good." Alex didn't have the heart to tell her that she had picked it out for him to wear.
"Do you want to have a drink? And maybe we can go for a walk on the beach?" Maria asked.
"Sure, sounds great," Alex replied. "I hope all those guys aren't being a bad influence on Bobby – the last thing you need is a groom with a hangover," she joked.
"Oh, I know. Maybe it's a good thing that the ceremony is late in the day. It'll give everybody time to recover, just in case," she laughed.
They went to the fridge and each selected a wine cooler, to bring along on their walk. They walked just a bit, and found a place to sit — the same rocks that Bobby and Carlos had sat on for their talk a week earlier. Of course, Bobby was the main topic of conversation. Alex learned more of the details of Bobby's and Maria Elena's relationship and shared her own stories about Bobby. Maria had plenty of questions for Alex, too; the normal things women talk about: how life was growing up; how she decided to become a cop; marriage, kids, hobbies — that sort of thing. After almost two hours of chatting, they got down off the rocks and started heading back to the house.
"Well, I'm glad we had this chance to talk and get to know each other. Bobby said I would like you – and he was right."
"Aww, that's sweet of you to say."
"I just — well, I really feel that I owe you, too."
Alex looked at her quizzically.
"For taking such good care of him and being such a good friend to him for the past five years. He, umm, he told me about how the people he was partnered with always left. You're the only one who stayed."
"Well, he's a great partner. I don't know what was wrong with those other people — I guess they just couldn't see the wonderful things in him that you and I do."
"I suppose not," Maria sighed. "Well, it's their loss."
They clinked their empty bottles together, "I'll cheer to that," Alex said.
xxxxxxx
Sanchez and Bobby arrived back at the house at 2:45 a.m. Maria Elena and Alex had long ago curled up on the sofa and love seat, tired of waiting for their men to get home. The squeak of the front door roused Alex from her sleep.
"Hey you," she said with a smile and a stretch.
Maria stirred, too, sensing the motion in the room.
Bobby and Darius stood in the doorway of the living room, arms slung over each other's shoulders.
Alex turned to Maria, "Well, at least they're still standing," she said sarcastically.
"Are you all right, baby?" Maria asked.
"I, I'm fine – just a little buzzed."
Sanchez laughed, trying to keep his voice down, "I think seven drinks gets ya' a little more than buzzed, my friend."
"What, you were counting?" Bobby asked indignantly. Darius shook his head, still laughing.
"Eames, what does that remind you of?"
"I know, Bobby, I know. He's lying."
"See?" Bobby said, smirking at Sanchez. My partner knows you're lying!" he said with a self-satisfied grin.
"Right Alex? Remember that case? 'Seven vodka gimlets'... Sanchez just couldn't say I had a lot of drinks," Bobby slurred. "He's lyin' just like that girl was... she thought she could fool us..."
"I think it's time for you to go to bed, my friend," Sanchez laughed.
Bobby turned towards Darius, grabbing him into a hug, patting his back, "Thanks man."
"You're welcome. Go get some sleep and sober up, buddy – you've got a big day tomorrow."
"I've got the best day tomorrow," he said, smiling at Maria Elena. She approached his side, letting him lean on her for the walk down the hall."
"G'night," she whispered back down the hall. I'll come back and lock up after you. You gonna' be all right getting home?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Darius answered, while Eames looked on, double-checking his eyes. "I switched to soda a couple of hours ago — you should've seen Deakins and Carver though!" he said with a laugh.
"Thanks for everything, Maria, g'night," Alex said.
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It was Sunday morning. Bobby didn't feel as bad as Maria Elena thought he would. They had to be up early for Mass and she actually felt bad for having to wake him, but she thought it would be awkward not to show up for church, then expect Father Perez to perform their wedding ceremony later in the day. When they get back from Mass, they had a light breakfast and Maria Elena's Aunt arrived soon after, to style her hair.
Rosa was busy getting hers and Carlos' clothes ready and helping out with 'Berto, too, so Maria could concentrate on herself. Then, Bobby remembered his gift for Alex. He wanted her to have it before the ceremony.
"Maria, can I borrow your car?"
"Of course, baby. Where are you going?"
"Over to Sanchez' house. I have to see Alex. I, umm, I got her a gift I wanted to give her before tonight."
"Go ahead, honey. The keys are right on top, in my pocketbook."
"I won't be too long, okay?" he said, giving her a kiss goodbye.
Bobby reached the Sanchez house. Alex and Darius' family were still seated around the dining room table, just having finished their brunch. He rang the bell.
"Hey! I didn't expect to see you up so early," Sanchez teased him.
"I've been up – we had to go to church at 9 o'clock."
"I guess you're too nervous to sleep, anyway, huh?"
"No, n-not nervous – anxious. I wish it was six o'clock already," Bobby answered, fidgeting with his hands, as always.
They now stood by the doorway to the dining room and Bobby said 'hello' to everyone. He hesitated a moment and asked, "Umm, do you mind if I steal Alex from you for a few minutes?"
Alex looked up, curiously, and got up from the table. "Excuse me," she said to the family, walking towards Bobby with her typical raised eyebrow look tht silently asked "what's up?"
They went outside and sat on the porch. He retrieved the gift case from his jacket, pausing before handing it to her. "I wanted to give you to you, be-before to-tonight."
She looked at him with a look that said, "You didn't have to do that," but he held her comment to herself; she could tell he wasn't done saying everything he had to say.
He turned towards her, lightly resting his fingers on the back of her hand. "I wish there was some better way I could — tell you — thank you for always being there for me."
Her eyes started tearing up.
"...for putting up with me an,an,an and not leaving... and for being my best friend." He leaned over and kissed her cheek as he handed her the box. She looked up at his face, then down at the box.
"Op-open it," he nodded.
She looked down and with a nervous little laugh, opened the lid to reveal a diamond necklace. It was actually a "Y" necklace; white gold, with three diamonds, graduated in size, with a large teardrop shaped stone at the bottom that was well over a carat. It was the perfect enhancement for the decolletage of her gown for later that evening.
"Oh my God, Bobby! It's magnificent — oh, Bobby, I can't let you buy me something this expensive."
He gave her his usual look of disagreement: pursed lips and furrowed brow. "Do you like it?"
"I love it! It's beautiful!" she exclaimed, with a smile now taking over the look of disbelief.
" I want to see it on you tonight."
"But Bobby," she persisted. This must have cost you a fortune..."
"And you're worth every penny," he interrupted. "Don-don't ever forget that."
She leaned over, giving him a huge hug, kissing his cheek.
"I really don't know what to say," she shook her head. "Thank you, so much."
"You're more than welcome."
"Here, help me try it on now," she said. She removed the necklace from its box and handed it to Bobby, turning away f rom him so he could place it around her neck and do the clasp. She turned back around and 'modeled' it for him with a huge smile on her face.
"It's almost as beautiful as you," he said to her. There was no teasing in his voice; he was serious.
She smiled at him and rolled her eyes, non-verbally saying "yeah, right."
"I know that sounds like a cliche, but I mean it an-and you're even more beautiful on the inside –where it's most important."
"I really don't know what to say, Bobby — you've finally succeeded in leaving me speechless."
They hugged again, and she whispered another 'thank you.'
"I guess I'd better get going." She nodded as they ended their embrace, wiping the tears from her eyes.
As he headed down the stairs, he turned back, "Did Sanchez say anything to you about last night?"
"Like what?"
"I umm, I told him that if he ever hurt you I'd kill him."
Alex laughed, attributing the comment to Bobby's drunken state the night before. "No, he didn't mention it – but I wouldn't worry about it, he's not gonna' hold something like that against you –he knows it was just the liquor talking."
"Oh, no," Bobby shook his head. "I told him that before we even started drinking...on the drive over to the club."
Later That Day
Bobby had taken a short nap, just so he'd feel more refreshed for the night ahead. Maria Elena had taken a shower, just to freshen up before the ceremony, taking great care not to get her hair wet. Bobby had yet to shave and shower – they had to hurry – the photographer would be there soon. As Maria Elena entered the bedroom, she saw a card and a black velvet jewel case on the bed. She looked at Bobby and smiled, "What did you go and do?" He just smiled and watched as she sat on the edge of the bed and took the envelope. The outside read: "To My Beautiful Bride, On Our Wedding Day." She sat quietly, reading Bobby's heartfelt message. Looking up at him with happy tears welling up in her eyes, she teased, "You're not supposed to make me cry, you'll ruin my mascara."
"Sorry," he said and nodded towards the box. "Open it."
For Maria Elena, he had selected a pearl and diamond necklace, with matching drop earrings and a bracelet. He knew that they would look exquisite with her gown and on her.
"Oh, Bobby! They're beautiful."
She got up and walked towards him, hugging and kissing him.
"You are gonna' be the most beautiful bride in the world."
"I don't know about that, but I'm sure I'm the happiest," she said, her smile beaming. She hugged and kissed him again. "Thank you, Baby; and thank you for the beautiful card — what you wrote – it just took my breath away."
"I ju-just wanted to write how I, how I feel about you. I never want you to doubt any of it, or ever forget it."
"I never could," she promised. "Come here," she said, tugging him closer. She kissed him passionately and when their lips parted, she held his soft, whiskered cheeks between her hands, her smiling eyes looking into his. "I love you, Robert Goren. I always have. I always will. You're my one and only."
xxxxxxxx
It had been a beautiful ceremony. Bobby looked absolutely handsome and dashing in his tux and the happiness on his face was almost indescribable. Maria Elena was positively radiant; truly the most beautiful bride all of the family and guests had ever seen and little 'Berto was a handsome, perfect little gentleman. Rosa and Carlos had never seen him look so happy.
Maria Elena's aunt and uncle had done a fabulous job with the food and organizing the reception. They had erected several large white canopies, decorated with yards and yards of tulle and thousands of tiny white lights. One area was for the food, one for the DJ and dancing, and one for dining. The flowers and candles were perfect, giving a romantic, intimate feel to every table. They had put down a temporary/portable hardwood floors in each, so the guests didn't end up full of sand. The surrounding natural beauty of the beach and the rhythmic sound of the waves hitting the shore made a perfect backdrop to the affair.
Everyone watched happily, with some applause, as Bobby and Maria Elena Goren shared their first dance as husband and wife. They had chosen a song that had special memories and meaning to them. In fact, it was so special and personal to them that they wanted to keep it that way —'their own private love song' so they gave the DJ the instrumental version to play and they sang along as they danced, whispering the words in the other's ear. It was a haunting, romantic tune that, truthfully, probably none of the guests recognized, but they appreciated the beauty of the music, nonetheless. Then, as the first song ended and the DJ segued into Bobby's next selection, (A One In A Million You, by Larry Graham), the guests joined them on the dance floor and began their own nights of romance.
All of the guests ate and talked and laughed and truly celebrated the happy event. Couples danced, trading partners, all making sure they had at least one dance with the Bride or Groom.
Bobby had finished another flute of champagne while he and Maria made the rounds to each table, thanking every guest for coming. He was talking with Uncle Julio, when the notes of another familiar song caught his ear.
"Ex-excuse me," he said, scouring the crowd to find Eames. He spotted her, dancing with Lewis.
"Aww, hell..." He walked over and tapped Lewis on the shoulder. Lewis turned and shot Bobby a look like, "Are you kidding me?"
"I'm sorry to do it to ya' Bud, but this one is mine."
Alex looked at Lewis, putting on a pout of regret. He knew she didn't mean it.
Bobby took Alex's hand and put the other on her back. He leaned in closer, holding his cheek against her hair as they swayed to the music.
"I'll stand by you, won't let nobody hurt you, I'll stand by you..."
"It's been a beautiful night," she told him.
"Mmmm"
"Nothing you confess, could make me love you less, I'll stand by you..."
"What about your honeymoon?"
"We're thinking of going to Italy next spring. So, how do you think you're gonna' do without me?" he asked.
"I don't know. You did without me when I was out on maternity leave," she reminded him.
"Yeah," he leaned in closing, pressing against her hair "We saw how well that worked out."
"I'll stand by you, won't let nobody hurt you, I'll stand by you..."
"Well, I guess you'll be fine. An-and you have Sanchez now to look after you..."
"Bobby, it's only for four or five weeks. Sure, I'm gonna' miss ya', but — it'll go fast, just wait and see."
"Maybe it'll be quicker. Maria just has to wrap up some things with the salon and we have to take care of the paperwork for 'Berto's name change. We plan on being back in New York a few days before Thanksgiving."
Everyone but Bobby and Alex had noticed that the music had stopped. They heard some laughter in the background and found themselves a bit embarrassed, blushing at being caught at being so preoccupied with each other.
"I'm gonna' see you before you and Sanchez fly back, right?"
"Yup, we're here 'til Tuesday afternoon."
They kissed each other's cheeks and parted.
xxxxxxx
The following day while straightening up the bedroom, Maria Elena came across a small bag from a boutique she knew downtown. She peeked in, thinking she had forgotten about one of her purchases. She was removing the item, when Bobby walked in the room.
"Hey, Mrs. Goren, you're not supposed to be peeking in there."
"Oh, I'm sorry, baby. I thought it was a bag I forgot about."
"No, that's my bag – from when I went shopping the other day with Dad."
"Well can I see what's in it?"
"Uh-uh," he shook his head 'no'."
She gave him a pout. "But now you've got me all curious."
"Okay, go ahead. I wasn't gonna' give it to you until we got back to New York."
She removed the item. It was a gold chain, with a small heart-shaped glass vial attached. It had a screw-on top in the shape of a little heart. She held it up, dangling in front of her, admiring it.
"It's filled with sand from the beach — so, so you'll always have a little piece of "home" with you after we move."
"Awww, Bobby, that is so sweet for you to think of."
"Well, I just thought it might make you feel better. I know you're gonna' miss this place. It's a big sacrifice you're making for me. And I appreciate it."
She gave him a thank you kiss. "I love it – it's so sweet of you, really," she said with a smile.
She put it on and went to the living room to show her parents.
What Bobby hadn't told her was that the sand in the vial was more sentimental to him. He had scooped it up and saved it, taking it from the beach where they had stood the day before and took their wedding vows; from the beach where they had shared their first dance as husband and wife; the same beach where, approximately one week ago, they had renewed and consummated their love under a velvet, starlit sky, amidst the crashing waves. And, as yet unbeknownst to Bobby and Maria Elena, the spot where Alexandra Rose Goren, who would become Daddy's little girl, was conceived.
THE END.
Their Wedding Song: "Old Souls" written by Paul Williams.