A/N Still not mine, but I do enjoy borrowing the characters.
Special Thanks to EroSlackerMicha, Mojo01, LoErneBraska, and einzel for their reviews. I know I say something every time, but I really do read and appreciate them and your input. Thanks also to everyone who is reading my story.
The 'bar' was set up in a part of the ballroom where all the wedding festivities would be held. It was in a separate building connected to the hotel by an elevated crosswalk. As he entered the room, Archer was a little surprised by the number of people attending. But then, it was a free bar. He recognized a few crewmen but most everyone was unknown to him, probably friends and relative of Natalie and some of Trip's old friends. Three things did stand out. He saw Malcolm, Hoshi, Phlox, and Travis seated at a table. As he acknowledged their wave and headed toward them, he saw Trip's parents sitting with Lester Warren. Deciding he should pay his respects, he headed toward them.
As he walked, he thought of how he had conflicting emotions when it came to Warren. He remembered him when he was a young boy and Warren had come to work with his father. He admired him and was grateful for how he had carried on his father's work. But he also sometimes was a little bitter that Warren was now seen by much of the public as the man creating new warp drives that were still based on his father's basic design. He had to admit though that Warren himself had taken every opportunity to express how he owed his success to Henry Archer's creative genius. He had donated a large amount of money to allow the Smithsonian to have an Henry Archer Exhibit. He had also named the building where the warp drivers were being created as the Henry Archer Warp Complex. As he neared him, Archer decided this was something else he needed to put behind him.
Also, as he walked he had also heard the murmuring in the crowd as they realized who he was. Just then, to his chagrin, Lester Warren rose and clapped his hands. It got worse when the Tuckers also followed. Then everyone rose and joined the applause. He looked to Malcom and the others for some support and was stunned to see them joining in. Not sure what to do he finally waved his hand in thanks. As they finally finished he said, "Thank you. I accept your appreciation because I know it is not just for me but for the entire crew of Enterprise, especially those who didn't make it back"
By then he had reached Warren's table and was grateful see they were sitting back down. He quickly joined them.
He turned to Warren, "Lester, was that really necessary?"
Warren smiled, "You deserve it, Jon. Besides you know they all wanted to do something to let you know how they feel, maybe this will suffice for most of them at least, and will let you be a little."
"Maybe you're right." Then he turned toward the Tuckers, "Mr. and Mrs. Tucker, it's good to see you again. It has been a long time. Then he turned serious and said, I know I am way too late, but I do want to tell you how sad I was about Elizabeth. She was a wonderful person."
Chuck smiled sadly and answered, "Thank you Captain." Looking at his wife he said, "And we want to thank you for bringing our son back safely to us."
Archer thought about how he had created Sim and decided maybe it did have a good result, even though it was probably not something he should have done.
"Thanks, but he had as much to do with us getting home as I did." Then he said, "And since I am going to be the best man at your son's wedding, don't you think you could call me something other than Captain?"
Brenda spoke up, "All right, Jonathon, but only if you call us Chuck and Brenda."
Archer smiled, "It's a deal."
Then he said, "Well, I suppose I should join the others, I will see you a little later at the Rehearsal."
Warren spoke up and said, "Thank you for stopping to see us." As Archer rose, the men did too and shook his hand.
Archer crossed the room and sat down with Malcolm and the others. He wasn't sure what to say about what had happened and them joining the ovation. Apparently, the others felt the same and no one mentioned it.
Malcolm spoke up first, "Did you and T'Pol finish up whatever you had to do?"
Caught a little off guard, Archer hesitated and then decided he wasn't ready to discuss their trip, just said, "Yeah, we got it out of the way."
Travis smiled and said, "Well, you missed a good time. The Yacht was fantastic. Everyone could do what they wanted. Trip and Natalie went diving," he smirked at Hoshi, "Hoshi got to lay around and I and Malcolm did some deep-sea fishing."
Hoshi playfully struck him and said, "I was just relaxing and working on a tan. In any case I accomplished more than you did."
Travis, looking aggrieved said, "Hey, I almost got a bite."
Hoshi smirked and said, "Of course you did."
Archer, watching this exchange and the interaction between them, wondered if there was something more than friendship between them. Then, Malcolm interrupted his thoughts by saying, "The line seems to have gone down. Can I get you anything, Captain?"
"A beer would be fine."
As Malcom got up, Hoshi asked, "Is T'Pol coming to the festivities tonight?"
Archer answered, "Yes." He hesitated and then said, "She agreed to act as my partner."
Travis and Hoshi exchanged looks but decided not to say anything.
As Malcom returned, Archer asked, "Where are Trip and Natalie?"
Hoshi shrugged, "I don't know. They were still on the ship when we left."
The conversation then turned to the status of Enterprise, with Archer expressing how much he had missed working on her was looking forward to seeing how it all had turned out.
Then, as the bar started to clear out, they decide they should probably start to get ready too.
After they left the yacht, Trip and Natalie made it back to their room. As they were changing, Trip asked if they should join Malcolm and the others at the bar. Natalie looked over to answer and caught Trip as he took off his shirt. She smiled and said, "I guess we could maybe could do that." Trip looked back at her as she undid her bra. He smiled and said, "Your father and my folks will be there too."
Natalie was now taking off her shorts, "I guess we should probably go then."
Trip slipped his pants off as well, "I guess we should."
As Natalie finished undressing, she said, "Maybe we should take a shower first."
As Trip finished also, he said "I guess we could maybe do that."
Then Natalie laughed her bawdy laugh, touched Trip on the shoulder and said, "Your it," and ran naked for the bathroom. Trip quickly went after her.
Sometime later they separated and laid next to each other on the bed. Natalie smiled and said, "Maybe we should go to the bar."
Trip smirked and said, "You'll have to give me a little time before we go through that again."
When T'Pol arrived at her room, she slipped out of the jeans, but not before remembering how she had caught Archer looking at her. She thought over the rest of the day. It had been a good day, even with or maybe a little because they met Mercy. She took the Action Figure from her jacket pocket and put it in her bag.
Then she wondered what she should wear for the events of the night. Finally, she decided on her Vulcan robes. She had spent the last few days with Jonathon almost acting like a human. She needed to reassert her heritage. In spite of everything, in spite of how she felt, she was Vulcan.
Archer arrived right on time to escort T'Pol. He was a little surprised when she came to the door that she was wearing her Vulcan robes. But then he realized he was also happy that she was. He loved T'Pol for who she was and above all, she was Vulcan. He spoke up, "Are you ready."
T'Pol raised her eyebrows a little and said, "Of course."
Archer smiled and waited as she locked her door. They then set off down the hall. T'Pol had been a little nervous about how Archer would react when he saw her in her robes. Somehow she knew he was pleased and then she realized how important that was to her.
When they arrived at the ballroom, the bar was gone and the area had been partitioned into two rooms, one for each of the events. They entered the room for the Groom's dinner and saw for the first time the individuals that would participate in the wedding, as well as other invited 'partners'.
Trip and Natalie were talking to Lester and Trip's parents but came over as soon as they saw Archer and T'Pol.
Trip greeted them with 'Hey guys," and smiled when he saw T'Pol do her eyebrow thing. He went on, "Here, why don't we go around and I will introduce you to everyone."
Archer looked at T'Pol, who nodded; Archer and Trip then set off, but T'Pol was held up by Natalie who stepped in front of her. She said in a half-whisper, "T'Pol, are you busy in the morning?"
T'Pol, surprised said, "I have no plans."
Natalie, looking after Archer and Trip, said "Could you come to my room about eight o'clock? Trip and I are being traditional and he is staying with Malcolm tonight."
Wondering and worrying a little at what she wanted, T'Pol agreed to meet her. Just then Trip looked back and said, "Are you two coming?"
Natalie and T'Pol started after them as Natalie said, "Keep your shirt on, just having a little girl talk."
In the next few minutes, Archer met with first the Matron of honor, Ellen Warren, Natalie's sister-in-law and Ellen's husband Dave. Then they met Greta, who was practically giddy at being asked to be in Natalie's wedding and meeting everyone from Enterprise. Natalie's last bridesmaid was Hoshi. Of course, since Trip's groomsmen were Archer, Malcolm, and Travis, no introductions were needed. T'Pol was then introduced to Lester Warren and Trip's parents. There was a small awkward moment when T'Pol met the parents, but it quickly passed.
As they found their way to their seats, Trip took Archer aside and entrusted him with the wedding rings. When the meal was served, Archer was relieved to see Trip had made sure T'Pol received a Vegan meal.
The meal was for the most part uneventful except that Greta still suffered from being in awe of everyone from Enterprise, and drank too much; but the others took it in stride.
Lester Warren gave a toast that somehow seemed that Trip was his son and Natalie was the girl he was marrying.
After the dinner, while they were waiting for the minister to arrive, Hoshi approached Trip and Natalie and asked where they had been all afternoon. When she saw their smirks, she said, "Couldn't you wait one day for the Honeymoon?"
Trip smiled and said, "Who says the honeymoon doesn't start a little earlier."
Hoshi shook her head as if she was exasperated, but actually she was envious and wondered if she had made the wrong decision with Travis in waiting until they got back to San Francisco. But she consoled herself with the fact that was only two days away. She felt herself blushing as she realized she was getting herself aroused just thinking about it.
About then, the Minister arrived and they went into the room set up as a chapel for the rehearsal. They had decided that they wanted Chuck and Brenda escorted down to the front row right after Trip took his place. Then the procession would proceed with Ellen's daughter Dawn being the flower girl. Then Archer would escort Ellen, followed by Malcom and Greta, with Travis and Hoshi coming last. They went through the timing of the music and Lester escorting Natalie. The minister then went quickly through the service, telling Archer when he would need to produce the rings. He asked Trip and Natalie if they had planned on saying their own vows and they hold him they had.
Everyone then took a quick walk through, with things going well.
Lester Warren then announced that unfortunately it had been agreed that after the ceremony, the wedding party would go to another room and meet with the Press. The amount of time was to be limited but there would be pictures and questions.
After that, they would come to the room of the Groom's dinner for a reception and the Wedding dance. The newlyweds would begin the first dance with the Groomsmen dancing with the women they had escorted down the aisle.
Asking if anyone had any questions, the Minister released them, reminding them that the wedding would begin at five thirty and everyone should be in place at least an hour before that.
Everyone mingled for a while longer, but soon left for the night.
As Archer escorted T'Pol back to her room she told him about Natalie wanting to talk to her. Archer told her that it was probably Natalie wanting to get to know her better. After all, Natalie had said she wanted to be friends.
Then T'Pol asked a little hesitantly, "Did you not tell me we would need to dance? It sounded like you will be dancing will that Ellen woman."
Archer glanced at her. 'Was she disappointed? Was she jealous?' Telling himself not to go there, he explained that only was for the first dance and there would be many opportunities after that.
T'Pol then said, "I informed you that I was not accustomed to dancing. Perhaps you should select other partners."
"I then told you I would tach you." Then, hopefully, he went on, "Do you want to practice now?"
T'Pol answered, "That would seem to be logical."
Arriving at her room, Archer followed her inside. They both stood awkwardly for a moment until Archer had her face him and put his left hand on her shoulder, and asked her to put her left hand in his right upraised one. He had decided he would not attempt to teach her specific steps but just get her used to how they positioned themselves and how to keep him from stomping on her toes.
After a few false steps, he felt she was beginning to understand what was required. He was entranced about how gracefully she moved. He realized he should not be surprised, after all, he had often been amazed how she seemed to move so effortlessly. With him no longer concentrating on what she was doing, he began to realize how good she felt in his arms and how his hand had slid down to the small of her back and how much closer she was to him. Suddenly, it was no longer him teaching her to dance, but him enjoying a beautiful woman in his arms.
At first, T'Pol tried to concentrate on what he was saying and treating it as a lesson, a series of instructions. But she soon realized it was better just to relax and follow his lead. Then she came to realize how good it felt to have him hold her, how close she was to him. She knew she should step back, to assure him she was skilled enough to feel confident she could dance the next night, but she didn't want to leave his arms.
Then, as if reaching a mutual decision, they both released each other. As she quickly recovered her composure, she heard him say that she seemed to have it down and he should get back to his room. She agreed but some how knew that was not what either of them wanted to do.
She realized that it was very possible that Archer might feel the same way she did. But she also realized she was not ready to face that possibility and was both relieved and disappointed when he left. She decided she definitely need a long meditation.
As Archer left, he struggled with what seemed to be happening. Although he could hardly believe it, he was beginning to believe that T'Pol might have feelings for him. But he also knew that it had just been recently he wasn't sure he would ever see her again. He was not about to risk that when he was probably just seeing what he wanted to see. But…. No, he wasn't ready to venture there.
When Archer got back to his room, he decided he didn't want to spend anymore time thinking about what was going on with T'Pol. Thinking about the wedding the next day and what he needed to do, he thought how he had really done nothing as best man. Then he had a crazy thought. He started to dismiss it as something too little too late that he probably couldn't get set up anyway. But then he thought 'what the hell' and called the one man he thought could help him get it done.
With Lester Warren's help and some late-night communication he was able to get what he wanted accomplished.
The communication read, Tomorrow morning starting at 0900 there will be a Belated, Last Minute, Pathetic Effort to have a Bachelor party for Trip. It will be held aboard the Rose Marie.
The next morning, Archer was relieved to see a good crowd of men show up, including all of the wedding party and Natalie's brother Dave.
It was hardly a traditional bachelor party with no girls and the groom needing to stay sober because he was getting married later the same day, but everyone seemed to have a good time.
After he made an appearance, Travis had to leave, explaining he had promised to take Hoshi shopping. He was immediately sent off with calls of PW and sounds like the snapping of a whip.
Archer took care to assure it was fine for him to leave and decided there was no doubt now that something was going on between his junior officers. He was thrilled and would have to let Hoshi know how happy he was for them.
As the party was winding down, Archer took Trip aside and apologized for not having been the best Best Man. Trip was stunned, "Are you nuts? Jon, I thought I let you know how much I appreciate you were able to be my best man. It would not have been right without you here."
Then he turned serious and went on. "My Dad told me what happened in the bar yesterday. I was thrilled to hear it and wish I had been there to join in"
Then suddenly, he got to his feet and solemnly began to clap. Archer was shocked. It should have been laughable or just too corny, but instead Archer was really moved. When Trip finished, he said "Thank you, Trip, but I should be clapping for you and the crew. I did not always deserve the support and sacrifice you all gave me."
Then they suddenly reached out and unabashedly hugged each other. At that moment they both realized that with all that had happened, with the pain, the anger, the jealousy, their friendship was stronger than ever.
After the party, Malcolm and Archer took charge of Trip, entrusted with the duty of being sure he got to the wedding on time.
T'Pol knocked on Natalie's door precisely on time. She was still not sure what to expect but had decided there was no need to speculate and had spent the time after Archer left meditating. It had calmed and cleared her mind, but had done nothing to resolve the questions she had after the dance lesson.
Natalie opened the door and let her in. T'Pol was wearing an earth type dress with a high collar and finishing just below her knees. Natalie was struck by how exotically beautiful she was. She was also fully dressed in shirt and jeans not wanting to greet her in a robe.
Natalie invited her to sit and asked if she wanted anything to drink. T'Pol declined and Natalie got herself a cup of coffee.
Sitting down across from T'Pol, she felt herself wondering if this had been a good idea. Suddenly the speech she had prepared seemed inadequate. Taking a deep breath, she took the plunge.
"You are probably wondering why I asked you here this morning."
Feeling the question was rhetorical, T'Pol said nothing, leaving an awkward silence.
Natalie hurried on, "Trip told me what happened between you and him in the expanse. I know you had sex. He also told me how much you helped him and were there for him."
"He also told me he loved you and how it felt like you and he had a baby when you found Elizabeth."
Not getting any help from T'Pol, Natalie continued, "It's just…., I know Trip loves me and I love him. I know he doesn't love you anymore. But I just… I need to know; do you have feelings for him? Do you love him?"
T'Pol mind was racing, 'what was this about? Why was Natalie so insecure? They were getting married, she said she knew they loved each other.'
T'Pol knew there were two facts that would ease her mind. She could tell her about the Trellium to help explain her actions. She could also tell her about how she felt about Jonathan. But she wasn't about to reveal things she had kept secret up to now. She also decided not to try to mention the bond. If Trip had not mentioned it, it would just confuse her more at the best. At least she could honestly tell her what she wanted to hear.
"Natalie, I have no feelings for Commander Tucker other that friendship. I do not love him. I do not believe I ever did. Things occurred in the Expanse that would never have occurred elsewhere."
Natalie felt relieved but still had to ask, "How about Elizabeth? Doesn't she make you more than just friends?"
"It does mean there will be something special between us, but it does not mean I feel more that friendship for him. As I asked him, if they had picked someone else's DNA, say Lieutenant Reed, would you have expected me to be in love with him?"
Natalie tried to absorb what she had heard. It was what she wanted to hear, but could she trust this Vulcan? Suddenly she realized she really had no term of reference. She also began to wonder if T'Pol was even capable of love or if she would recognize it.
Telling herself she was getting herself messed up, she decided she would take what T'Pol said at face value. In any case, she loved Trip and he loved her.
She turned back to T'Pol, "I am sorry for asking these questions. Is it possible we can be friends?"
Once again T'Pol wasn't sure how to answer. How could she explain that Vulcans didn't really normally have what Humans considered just friends? Her relationships with the people on Enterprise had grown over a long period of time, under special conditions. For Trip's sake, she wished to maintain cordial relationships with Natalie, but was sure it was not the type of relationship Natalie desired.
Finally, she said, "I would like to have a harmonious relationship with you, but I am afraid it may not be exactly what you desire."
Natalie felt like she was getting more confused by the moment. She decided that it seemed everything had gone well and she should get out while she was apparently ahead.
"That is all I ask, T'Pol. Thank you for listening to me."
She rose, and escorted T'Pol to the door.
T'Pol exited with neither of them sure where it had been left, but hopeful they had a least lessened any concerns.
Travis and Hoshi come out of a store with him carrying two large bags by their handles, looking for a cab. Hoshi sees one and waves it down; they struggle a bit but get the bags and themselves in the back.
The Driver looks back, "Where to?"
Hoshi answers, "Get us to the Windsor Hotel, the southwest entrance. And we are in a little hurry.
Travis spoke up, "I told you we needed to get back, but you had to go to one more store."
"I found what I wanted didn't I? Besides we still have three hours before the wedding and we're going to be wearing our dress uniforms."
While they are riding, a TV screen in the cab has been on. Suddenly, Hoshi grabs Travis's arm. "Did you hear that?"
"Hear what?'
"On the TV, I swore I heard someone say T'Pol. Quick, wind it back."
Travis uses the remote to rewind it back.
Hoshi stops him, "That's good."
A news show is playing. The two Anchor persons are sitting at a desk, and a picture of a remote reporter is on a screen behind them.
The male announcer speaks, "And now for out daily human-interest story with Jim Ramsfield. Today he comes to use from a produce stand that according to the owner, has the best oranges on Earth. Yesterday the stand had a couple of very famous customers. Take it away, Jim."
Ramsfield, standing next to Mercy McBride at the orange stand, "When ten-year-old Mercy McBride came to stay with her Grandparents, George and Martha McBride, while her mother works, little did she know it was to be the most exciting day of her young life. You see, Mercy has a big interest in space and especially in the people on Enterprise with her personal hero being Commander T'Pol. You can imagine her shock and joy when who should show up as customers, none other than T'Pol herself along with Captain Jonathan Archer."
Turning to Mercy, "Well, Mercy, what was it like meeting your hero?"
Mercy, excitedly, "She was even more cool and beautiful in person. She talked to me just like a regular person. I gave her an action figure and she said she would keep it on Enterprise to remember me by." As an afterthought, "Captain Archer was cool too."
Ramsfield continued, "It was also quite a shock for her Grandparents." Turning to them, "What was your reaction when they arrived?"
George answered, "They came up riding on a hover bike. When they took off their helmets, I could hardly believe it was them. They just walked up and said they wanted a dozen oranges. Well, after I gave it to them, I almost let them walk away before I came to my senses and called for Mercy and Martha."
Martha went on, "Well, when George came in and said T'Pol and Captain Archer were outside, I just didn't know what to think. I was afraid he had made a mistake and Mercy would be disappointed. Then when I came out and saw them, you could have knocked me over with a feather. They were just so nice and patient. They said they had to get back for something to do with Commander Tucker's wedding, but they stayed and talked to Mercy and even let us take this picture." She held it up to the camera.
Then Mercy butted in, "When she left, she gave me a Vulcan goodbye like this." She held up her hand in the salute.
The scene moved back to the Studio. The male announcer spoke again, "Well, Jim, that was quite a story and will certainly be a day that young lady will never forget."
Ramsfield went on sadly, "Unfortunately, there is another whole facet to the story. You see, Mercy McBride has Torrin Syndrome."
The Lady announcer spoke up, "How sad. But it makes it even more heartwarming that she had this opportunity to meet her hero."
Ramsfield answered, "Yes, both her Grandparents remarked they had never seen her so happy."
The Lady Announcer went on, "Jim, do we know what brought Archer and T'Pol there? What were two of Earth's biggest heroes doing out riding around Florida on a hover bike?"
"No one here thought to ask and when we tried to contact them or Starfleet, no one had anything to say."
The male announcer finished up, "Maybe they just wanted some oranges. Thanks, Jim."
Meanwhile the cab had been stopped by the security guards who informed Travis they would have to walk the rest of the way.
Travis said, "We're here."
Hoshi didn't seem to hear him and with tears in her eyes, said, "That was so sad and still so sweet. I wonder if Jon and T'Pol know about Mercy."
Travis repeated gently, "We're at the hotel, Hoshi."
"I know, so get out already."
They climbed out with their packages and as Travis paid the driver, Hoshi dried her eyes with a tissue. Then Travis handed the packages to a Security Guard and they walked down the ramp toward the elevator. As they walked, Hoshi said, "I can't wait to tell Jon and T'Pol what we saw."
"Do you think they will be glad it was on the news?"
"Well, the Captain's supposed to be trying to generate good publicity for the Alliance. I would think he should be pleased how they were shown being kind to a young girl. It especially should be good that a Vulcan is portrayed in that way." Then, with a conspiratorial smile, "It is kind of interesting though that they were out together like that. This may start a few rumors. We'll have to be sure to tell Trip, so he can give them a hard time."
Everyone was ready at the allotted time of one hour before the beginning of the ceremony. Malcolm, Travis, Jonathan, and Hoshi were in their Starfleet dress uniforms. Lester Warren and Chuck Tucker were wearing tuxedos. The bridesmaid dresses were simple designs in Starfleet Blue.
Natalie had decided not to go for traditional white but wore a dress with blue highlights. She waited for her time with Brenda and her sister-in-law.
Trip took his place fifteen minutes before the wedding, noting the chapel was nearly filled to capacity. He saw that Dave was handling the ushering chores. Although he had only known him a short time, he felt he was a good man and remembered how he had been there for Natalie.
Trip talked for a few moments to the minister and then waited nervously for the ceremony to begin. He had spent the time with Jon and Malcom before getting ready. They had discussed the current status of Enterprise. It was apparent that Jon could hardly wait until he was aboard her again.
Travis and Hoshi stood together as they waited for their time to go down the aisle. The sexual tension between them had been steadily rising and they almost found it difficult to concentrate on the wedding.
Greta had managed to get herself under control, but inwardly was still highly excited. She was about to walk down the aisle with Malcolm Reed! She had always found him kind of the mystery man of Enterprise, the one in control of the weaponry.
T'Pol had opted for her Vulcan robes again and had found a seat in the back. She got some attention from those near her but her persona kept anyone from approaching her.
Then the time had come. Chuck and Brenda were escorted down to front and Trip felt a moment of sadness as he thought how Elizabeth would be enjoying this.
In a few moments, Dawn came down the aisle. She was a very cute nine-year-old who was smiling ear to ear. She stopped a few steps away and turned her smile on Trip who found himself returning her smile.
Then Jon and Ellen were coming down the aisle. Trip's minded wandered back to the first time he had ever seen Jonathon Archer. At first, he was just eager to show him what he had discovered about the warp drives, but he came to feel bound to him, to take a journey with him. A wild journey that had led them here, but still had a way to go.
Malcom and Greta came next. They made quite a pair. Trip had to smile to see how obviously excited Greta was, while Malcolm was keeping his stiff upper lip.
Then came Travis and Hoshi. Already they looked like a well-established couple. Two people who looked like they belonged together. He was so happy for them. They each deserved all the happiness in the world.
Then there was a pause and then the music played and Natalie and Lester were coming down the aisle. Trip heart leapt at seeing her. She was so beautiful. He realized how fortunate they had been to have a second chance; how easy it would have been for them to never get back together.
As Natalie walked with her father, she felt a moment of sadness that her mother wasn't here to see this. She felt a moment of guilt but resolutely pushed it back. Then she saw Trip waiting and pure happiness took over. She loved him so much.
When they arrived at the altar, Lester smiled and shook Trip's hand and gave Natalie a kiss on the forehead. He then told them how happy he was for them and how proud he was. Putting their hands together, he went to sit next to Brenda.
The wedding went smoothly and then it was time for their vows.
They turned and faced each other and Trip went first.
"I have traveled to the stars. I have seen sights that many humans will never see. I have experienced adventure and fear. But now I realize that my heart has never left Earth. It will always be here because I have entrusted it to you. No sights, no adventure can match or compete with my love for you."
Fighting back some tears, Natalie composed herself. "In my life, I have made many mistakes, I have hurt those I love. But there was always something there, something I had done right. That was being in love with you. I cannot undo all that I have done, but I know I can go forward and find happiness because I know I am loved and that I love."
The minister then spoke up. "You may kiss the bride."
As they embraced and stepped back, he said, "I present Commander and Mrs. Charles Tucker the third."
The next few moments were a little chaotic as the groomsmen congratulated Trip and shook his hand, and congratulated Natalie and gave her a hug. The bridesmaids did the same but gave them both a hug.
As everyone went back up the aisle and were applauded by the audience, they gathered in the reception room. Archer found T'Pol and addressed her.
"Well, T'Pol what do you think if an Earth wedding?"
"It was quite interesting. Although it lacks the solemnity of a Vulcan ceremony. But I presume it is meant to produce the same goal of commitment."
Archer had to smile, "It is supposed to, but I have a feeling there are more failings than a Vulcan marriage."
T'Pol agreed, saying, "It is very difficult and rare for a Vulcan bond to be broken."
Just then, Lester Warren entered the room and Archer sighed. "It's time to face the press. There is no need for you to participate. Why don't you wait here? It's not supposed to take very long."
"I believe I will do so."
Archer joined the others as they went into the room to deal with the press. He was glad to see they had apparently severely limited the number of reporters and photographers.
As pictures were being snapped, the questions began. The reporters were supposed to limit their questions to the wedding and for the first few minutes, they were innocuous and easy to handle.
Then one reporter asked. "Commander Tucker, what happened between you and Commander T'Pol? Is it true you were the reason she left?
Trip stood there, not sure what to do. Then Archer spoke up, "Do you mind if I take this one, Trip?"
Trip looked gratefully at him and nodded.
Archer turned to the reporter, "Commander T'Pol went on an extended leave to clear up some personal issues on Vulcan. I can assure you it had nothing to do with Commander Tucker."
The reporter looked as if he wanted to disagree or ask another question, but whatever he said would be calling Captain Jonathan Archer a liar without any proof.
Before he decided what to do, other questions were asked. Then one reporter asked, "I understand you and Commander T'Pol were seen together on a hover bike riding around in the countryside yesterday. Could you tell us how that came to be?
Everyone looked in surprise at Archer except Hoshi and Travis.
At first, Archer was inclined to say, that it was none of their business, but decided that would just invite more speculation so he decided to just tell the truth, as least to a certain extent. "Commander T'Pol expressed an interest in seeing a rural part of Earth. I decided a hover bike would enable us to do that to the best advantage."
To everyone's relief, as they had a feeling the questioning was getting more personal, Lester Warren called the conference closed. The reporters grumbled, but started filing out as security guards appeared to aid them in finding their way.
Everyone filed back into the reception room, with the wedding party finding seats at the main table with invited close relatives and friends found seats at the other tables.
Archer broke tradition a little by having T'Pol sit next to him.
Lester Warren spoke first.
"As the one who paid for this, I will usurp the first toast. For all of you that know me, you know how long I have hoped for this day. I have never hidden that Trip has been my choice to marry my daughter. Of course, I'm sure I would have come to be happy if she had chosen another." As everyone looked a little doubtful at him, he smiled and continued, "But I am awfully glad I never had to find out."
As everyone smiled, he turned the mike over to Archer.
Archer looked down at Natalie and Trip and said, "I have known both of these individuals for some time. I admit I was surprised and disappointed when they once broke up. I find it comforting that as much that has happened to all of us since that day, their love has persevered.
Then he smiled, "In fact, I admire both of these people so much that I would be honored to take the place of either one of them and be married to the other."
As the audience absorbed this, "He smiled broadly and went on, "Of course, I would much rather be Trip!"
As almost everyone laughed, Archer let it subside and then said, "Seriously, no one deserves happiness more than them." Then he surprised everyone especially one individual when he made the Vulcan sign and said, "Trip and Natalie, Live Long and Prosper."
Then Trip got up. "This has been a wonderful two days. To be surrounded by our friends and relatives. Natalie and I want to thank those that stood up with us. We love you all. Although it saddens me, I do want to mention two important people that are not with us today. I need to believe their spirits are with us. Let's have a silent moment for Elizabeth Tucker and Rose Warren.
After a moment, he continued, "A philosopher friend of mine, one Malcolm Reed…" The audience interrupted with laughter especially from those from Enterprise. Trip pretended to glare at them and continued. As I was saying, Malcom said, how do you deserve a woman like that?"
Trip reached down and touched Natalie's cheek as she put her hand on his. "The answer, Malcolm, is that I don't. But I will do everything I can to make her happy."
Tearing up a little, Natalie got up and gave him a passionate kiss as everyone but one clapped.
They then broke apart and sat back down as Trip said, "Okay, let's eat."
After eating lightly, T'Pol getting a salad, Lester announced it was time for the traditional first dance.
Trip and Natalie made their way out toward the floor and danced close together, their arms around each other. Then they were joined by Jon and Ellen, Malcolm and Greta, and Travis and Hoshi. In spite of themselves, both Ellen and Greta were a little awed by their partners.
As the dance ended, everyone found their partners before the next dance. Greta appeared to be left out but then Lester asked her to dance.
T'Pol realized the time had come. She had been anticipating and dreading this moment since the previous night. She wanted to have that feeling again with Archer but she felt inhibited in front of her friends and people she did not know.
But then Jonathan was asking her and she found herself out on the floor. She soon forgot about any of the others and relaxed into Jonathan's arms.
Soon, everyone was looking at them. Natalie and Trip smiled at each other as did Travis and Hoshi, Hoshi maneuvered over next to Natalie and Trip and Hoshi said, "Let me tell you about the hover bike."
After a couple dances, Archer and T'Pol returned to the table and sat out the rest. They had noticed the attention they were garnering. It was probably most telling that no one who came over gave them a rough time.
Eventually the time came for the married couple to leave. Natalie tossed her bouquet which was caught by Greta. T'Pol of course had not taken part and Natalie fought her inner demon and did not throw it where she was standing with Jon.
After Trip and Natalie left, the party quickly broke up. Trip and Natalie were taking a quick two-day honeymoon to Paris, because Archer had made it clear he needed Trip back to get serious about getting Enterprise ready.
Archer walked T'Pol back to her room. They had arranged to leave the next morning back to San Francisco and both were eager to get back aboard Enterprise and get back to work. But as they reached her door, they also realized they didn't want this evening to end. As much as they anticipated returning to their mission, they knew it would also bring the return of Captain and Commander.
As they stood there, T'Pol spoke first. "We better get some rest. We have an early flight in the morning."
She knew she would not be sleeping, she badly needed to meditate.
Archer hesitated as if he wanted to say something, but then he said, "Your right." Then as he turned he said, "You are a wonderful partner, T'Pol, Good night."
As T'Pol pondered those words, she said good night and entered her room.
