WTC- Epi 2

Even though he knew he shouldn't, Rick looked out the window of the two-bedroom suite that he, Michonne and Carl had been staying in. It was his room for the restless night he'd just had. He and Michonne had reluctantly decided that they'd stay separately for just this one night leading up to the ceremony, for tradition. Carl slept in his bed last night to keep him company, kicking him numerous times with his wild sleep gymnastics. If getting some rest before his big day was the idea, his sons sudden nocturnal attacks didn't do anything to help calm his anxiety.

Rick glanced out the window once more to see Tammy Rose, Tobin, Carol and others shuffling around to get things in place. He'd been prepared to give Michonne the wedding of her dreams. As spare no expense as he could manage. But she told him she just wanted something small with close family and friends present. The people that would truly be happy for them on this big day, right here on the property. Yet his heart sped and he grew jittery.

He didn't have any second thoughts about marrying Michonne. Not at all. She had been a light guiding him to a future he hadn't been able to conceive. His issue was with his inactivity, he wasn't used to standing by and letting others do so much for him. Rick was awed to have so many people that cared enough to do this for them. But he wanted to make sure everything was the way it should be. The way it had to be for Michonne. Because she deserved more than she could imagine.

After all, he'd done this before. It was a simple decision to marry Lori. They were young, dating, loved one another and it was the next natural step for them. Don't get him wrong, he was content in that marriage but with Michonne he really felt as though this was a true union. They were both adults that knew better what they wanted. Had experienced and with knowledge of self could point out what was missing and had the courage to comprise it.

Rick smiled to himself and couldn't help but to sneak another peek.

"Hey dumbass, what are you doing looking out there?"

Rick snickered and turned around to see Glenn entering the room. "Is everything okay? Do they need any help down there? Because I could-"

"You could what? Go down and get all sweaty?" Glenn came over pushing his back moving him away from the window.

Rick dragged his feet as he walked to the chair in front of the desk but didn't sit. "I don't wanna get wrinkled."

"But sweaty is okay." Glenn and Rick laughed since the logic really didn't make any sense. Yet the laughter was much needed to release the tension in his shoulders.

Once more, they followed custom with Rick not knowing what Michonne would be wearing. But he wanted to match her request for a less formal dress style. He had been planning on going with a plain white dress shirt, but her eyes lit up in the mall when she saw a mannequin sporting a cream button up shirt with thin light blue lines running through it. She said it would highlight the cerulean blue of his eyes and knowing how much she loved that, it made his choice easy. He paired it with a brand new pair of dark jeans and his trusty boots that he'd taken to the leather shop for sprucing.

"Don't worry everything is ready to go. Women have way more to do for these occasions so just give her a little more time. Trust me, Sasha was the same way." Glenn patted his shoulder before he plopped in the vacant chair.

"You're right but maybe someone should go check on things?"

"What do you think I was just doing? Relax, guests are about to be shown to their seats then it'll be show time." Glenn assured him but his heart sputtered when the door opened. Rick huffed out a breath realizing it was only Shane entering.

"I've got Maryanne in her seat so I can resume my best man duties." he rubbed his hands together jovially and noticed his best friends face. "You okay, Brother?"

"Yeah." Rick closed his eyes running his fingers through his haphazard curls that the bride to be requested he not cut, allowing Glenn and Shane to share a quick look. A bit of distraction was in order.

"So since this wedding is a go…I guess that means Michonne's family approved?" Glenn lightheartedly joked and Rick grinned.

"Michonne, Carl and I took a trip to Georgia so she could meet my parents and I could meet hers. And fortunately for me, it went really well. They were all surprised by it all being so sudden…" he chuckled. "…but they were excited for us. My parents love Michonne of course and Carl's seal of approval was everything."

"Yeah, they came to visit me and my wife on that trip. Rick's parents wanted to spend some time with their grandson so we had a double date and got to know one another. Maryanne and Michonne hit it off. That woman is pretty amazing." They all nodded in total agreement.

"And the way this guy behaves around her…" Shane smiled gesturing to his childhood friend who smirked, hoping his reddening cheeks weren't too rosy.

"I'm not gonna lie brother. I've never seen you this way, not even with Lori. God rest her soul."

Rick chewed his lip before he smiled brightly again. "I've never felt this way before. I have to admit I pushed the limits with Michonne from day one, right up until my impromptu proposal."

"I'll admit I was a bit surprised when you called and told me not only Georgia was off, but you were engaged. You could've knocked me over with a feather."

"Sash and I could see it from the minute we saw them at breakfast that first day of the retreat. We were relieved that they finally figured it out." Glenn snickered and they joined in.

"I thought I lost her when I rushed things in New York. But it's just when I'm with her, I want it all. I never want to waste a moment by being without her." Rick sighed idyllically.

"You are a love drunk fool if I ever seen one." Shane's statement had them all laughing.

"I am."

There was a startling bang at the door before a little shouting voice accompanied it. "Dad!"

Shane rose a hand to calm Rick, halting his attempt at a step forward.

"So much for distracting him." Shane muttered then opened the door to see the bouncing tike in the threshold. "Carl, I thought I told you to softly knock. You damn near gave your father a heart attack."

"Sorry, Uncle Shane! I'm excited because they are finally ready!" he hustled his way around the man's wide stance to get to his father. "Dad, its time. Let's go!"

They chortled as Rick was tugged to the door by his motivated son before the boy abruptly stopped turning to his pseudo uncle. "You have the rings to give to me when we get down there, right?" his blue eyes squinted in an almost threatening manner.

"Yeah, Buddy." Shane patted his buttoned breast pocket.

"Okay then, let's go!"

Handshakes, hugs, kisses and hearty pats on the back were distributed to Rick from family and friends as he made his way down the aisle. They'd decided to have the wedding outside on the property near a lake, different than the one he stood by yesterday with the guys. Earl and Tobin helped build a wooden arch that held assorted cream, beige and rust orange flowers that matched the ones in the bridal party's bouquets. Long sweeping pieces of ivory satin, beige cotton lace and antique orange ribbon draped above and down the sides to create shade for the bride and groom to stand under.

Rick's cheeks were high being surrounded by the ones that truly loved both he and Michonne. But he had to admit that all the faces were kind of a blur. His parents and her mom stood out as both women dabbed at their eyes even though the ceremony hadn't begun.

He could also distinguish the light blue shirted men that he chose as his part of the wedding party. Carl wore a slightly darker denim shirt to differentiate his honored title as ring bearer. A previously astounded to be asked Earl stood with the groomsmen, more than happy to be a part of the ceremony. The older man assumed Rick would've only chosen family and friends from back in Georgia. But he was pleased to join Shane, Glenn and three other friends that had flown in. Matching the stunning array of cousins that Michonne had for her bridesmaids along with Sasha, Andrea and Yumiko.

Neither Rick or Michonne were particularly religious so who would officiate was a toss-up. They could've gone with family suggestions or to the local houses of worship for a person of the cloth. But a random conversation with Siddiq about the upcoming retreat weekend and its returning guests struck a chord. Michonne chuckled while telling Rick about Anne's involvement in not only passing on the flyer but in blocking Gabriel's would be attempt at pursuing her.

'So you think he should marry us instead?' Rick snickered amusedly while Michonne shrugged.

'It somehow seems fitting.'

Now, the formerly practicing Episcopalian priest stood, arms comfortably folded beside Rick, smiling warmly. A band was set up in the nearby huge reception tent playing soft music to soothe the expecting crowd when Rick noticed the light denim dresses that headed their way. His eyes refused to close as they moved up the processional while being annoyingly blurred by tears. He quickly brushed them away with his fingertips, clearing his vision yet his heart still quaked.

Rick's head bobbed around as stealthily as he could, trying to get a clear sight of his bride. But she walked steadily on the opposite side with her father's arm wrapped around hers, trailing the bouquet handed women. He knew the drill, one by one her cousins then Sasha, Yumiko and Andrea would come down the aisle to stand in their place on the opposite side of the altar.

"You ready?" Gabriel whispered but he could only nod in response, not wanting to miss a moment.

Sophia, the flower girl was next, liberally sprinkling flower petals for the bride to angelically saunter through. Everyone that had been seated came to an awe filled stand. Rick waited anxiously for the one person he yearned for to be fully revealed to him. He could scarcely make out the wedding march commencing the way his heart pounded. Then her father turned, presented her to them all. And it all faded away and peace swept over him.

It was a slightly overcast day but the rays of sun broke through, seemingly just to illuminate her. Each step her sandaled feet took towards him sent a billow through her floor length, umpire waist halter dress. A sheer shade of cream alternated with off-white embroidered panels adding to her mystic. The contrast making her dark skin glow as his eyes rose up her toned arms and exposed shoulders.

Rick needed a second to gather himself so he allowed his eyes to continue the journey to the top of her head. Shimmers of light reflected off the intricate pattern of tiny jewels placed in her sloped haircut. With her only steps away, he felt a comforting hand lay on his shoulder.

"Breath." Shane whispered and Rick did so gradually before he granted himself the gift of her exquisite face.

Breathtaking was an entirely inadequate description of the gorgeous woman that was being escorted to him. Her barely noticeable makeup highlighted the contours of her cheekbones and nose. Sweeping eyelashes fluttered with the steady rise and fall of her chest when she came to stand before him. Then her plum colored heart shaped lips parted to reveal a gleaming white smile reserved for just him.

"Stunning." was all Rick could manage, making her blush while her eyes dipped tenderly.

"You look beautiful Michonne." Carl uttered, drawing her attention and she motioned for him to step over so she could lovingly rub his hair.

"Thank you Carl." the cherubic cheeked boy accepted the affection before returning to his spot next to the men that all smiled approvingly also.

Michonne's eyes returned to what she'd been doing since she exited their home and began the journey across the pathway. Sweeping over her groom with an adoration he wrongly confessed to her once, that he didn't think he deserved. But he did, he was beautiful inside and out. Today, it was never more evident as she memorized what was extenuated by his naturally long lashes, the twinkling blue of his eyes. They invoked a calming effect on her, instantaneously slowing her pulse. Knowing they only shined this brilliantly when he was in his most blissful of states.

The light stubble of his beard couldn't hide the near dimples of his cheeks that lead right to his soft pink lips. How she wanted to nip at the full bottom one as it puckered against the upper one while he fought to not flush in front of everyone. She held her fingers firmly to her bouquet as they tingled to run through his curls. She could easily use their wayward nature as an excuse to touch those auburn flecks mixed with the brown. But she reserved it for later knowing it may get out of hand. The thought made her giggle and Rick joined her, seemingly knowing what thoughts ran through her mind. Probably similar to his own imaginings.

"Who will give this woman to be wed?" Gabriel interrupted their link once the music ceased.

"I will." her father gently pecked her forehead then placed her hand in Rick's now outstretched one. As her father took his seat next to her mother, Michonne took her place standing in front of the man she loved.

"Welcome friends and family. We are here to witness the blissful union of Richard Grimes and Michonne Anthony. Finding love when one thought…" Gabriel began a speech that the pair had been made privy of. The communication between the former father and their guests gave the couple a few more moments to continue studying one another.

Rick's Adams' Apple bobbed, leading her down to the small portion of his chest that could be seen with the top buttons of the shirt undone. The sleeves were neatly folded up and Rick's strong forearm was visible while he continued to hold her hand. His thumb leisurely imprinting a circle into her skin. Michonne could tell he wanted to kiss her so badly but instead he gently ran the knuckles of his hand across her delicate cheek. She sighed and caught his hand turning it over to press her lips to his wrist.

A whimper escaped, but not from either of them. They subtly pivoted along with the audience to see Tammy Rose with a handkerchief crying unabashedly. Natania and Dale fanned her while Tobin and Carol tried to hold in giggles even though their eyes were glossy too. Other guests also dapped at their eyes and grinned before returning their attention where it should be. The interlude auspiciously relieved some of the sensual energy between Rick and Michonne. They coyly grinned and sent a mental message to the other, assenting to focus on the words being spoken.

"This is a testament to how powerful Rick and Michonne's joining is." people nodded and hummed their agreement.

"They've inspired with their previously undiscovered and now triumphing love. That had they not shared, wouldn't have brought us all together. But not just this day, but going forward."

Again, the sounds of agreement rang out. Magna, Eduardo and Anne smiled, knowing firsthand this to be true. Their own relationships wouldn't have begun without the couple's influence.

"When I spoke with Rick and Michonne as they designed today, I was informed of the plan to forgo the reading of vows. But inspiration must have struck and I received a call." Michonne raised an eyebrow.

Rick reluctantly released her hand to reach in the back pocket of his jeans. Michonne's hand swiftly covered her mouth as she blushed bashfully. Her cheek muscles were impossible to relax as she watched him pull out a folded piece of cardstock. With slightly shaky hands, he unfolded it before taking a deep breath to begin.

"It was all because of Carl. He just couldn't stay put that day. No matter what I said, he just did what he wanted." everyone chortled at the boys contorted face but his father smiled at him reassuringly before he continued.

"I'd been stuck. I felt like everything was crashing down on me and I couldn't see a way out. I started to think I didn't deserve to, then a feeling I couldn't explain came over me. It was a cold one. This beautiful yet feisty woman threw her rainbow slush puppie on me."

Michonne giggled. "By accident."

"Yes, by accident." Rick chuckled and the audience joined in.

"But I'd never see her again and it was what I deserved for being less then gracious in response. Then by sheer luck, she was here at my lodge the next morning. And I was graced with her wit, elegance and intelligence, as well as her beauty. I was no doubt drawn to her brilliant light, but I wanted to do more than just partake. I wanted to protect it, nurture it and cultivate more of it."

A chorus of awes and sighs were expressed throughout the crowd as Michonne's eyes welled up.

"So on that faithful day, I was almost too stubborn to listen, caught up in my own happenings. But I thank Carl every day, even if he doesn't know it. Because he was bringing me somewhere. Bringing me here to you. To something real. To my future. To love. Michonne, I am overjoyed that you are letting me be your husband. I love you even more than you will ever know."

A tear rolled down Michonne's cheek as she mouthed 'I love you too' in return. Careful not to disturb her makeup, Rick used his thumb to catch it. His own eyes nearly spilling over before he returned his writings to his pocket. Then Michonne pivoted to Andrea, passing over her bouquet before Yumiko handed her a sheet of folded paper. She turned back to an amazed Rick and winked, causing him and the guests to laugh.

"To me it felt as though I'd dumped all the pieces out of my puzzle and figured out their placement only to realize a couple were missing. I hadn't really searched but when I couldn't find it, I convinced myself I would be fine without it. I'd brush off the incompleteness not realizing how I was accepting my heart not being fulfilled. That's what I had done and now I've found what I was omitting. An equal partner for comfort, sharing, honesty, growth, companionship and above all love. Rick, you and Carl are the missing pieces to my puzzle. Today, I stand before you and all who we hold dear to profess that I chose to be yours for the rest of my life."

Rick nodded in total agreement so tears sprang from his eyes before he stepped closer to her. He knew it wasn't the time for the kiss but he needed to be nearer. Michonne passed off her paper then gently rubbed the tearstains from his cheeks and whispered. "I love you so much."

Again the audience sighed and whimpers could be heard coming from them.

"So to be fair, I received two phone calls." Gabriel joked making everyone chuckle after that tender moment. "These two, so in sync."

"Now, may we have the rings?"

"Yes." Carl humbly stepped forward and handed one ring to the bride and the other to the groom.

"Thank you Carl." the officiate recognized him before he went back to his place, an honored smile on his young face.

"I can tell these two are ready to get to the good part…" everyone chuckled along with the couple. "Rick will you place your hand in Michonne's." he eagerly did as he was instructed.

"With this ring I thee wed." Michonne stated from memory of their rehearsal as she slid the single diamonded tension setting wedding band onto Rick's finger. Then he took her left hand in his and repeated the same words.

"With this ring I thee wed." he smoothly slid the chevron shaped, diamond encrusted band onto her ring finger. The pair marveled at their new sparkling adornments before turning back to Gabriel expectantly.

"Rick and Michonne, you both wondered if this was in your future. But we all didn't realize, we too waited for this. To witness the day, you two chose to officially become one. So I am proud and honored to be able to pronounce you… husband and wife. Rick, you may kiss your bride."

Before the words were fully out, Rick closed the distance pressing his lips to Michonne's heart shaped ones. The urgency was there but a gentleness accompanied it as their heads pivoted to delve deeper. His hands held her cheeks while hers tangled in his curls. The kiss was long, steamy and searing kiss with just the right amount of passion. Hoots, hollers and clapping created the montage song until they finally came up for air. Michonne wiped his face as much as she could to remove her lipstick. Then they finally turned their face splitting grins to their friends and family to be presented.

"Mr. and Mrs. Richard Grimes!"

The wedding party members unexpectedly began to toss flower petals into the air so they floated on them, making them giggle. Then Sasha quickly brought over an ornately decorated broom and laid it on the ground in front of the two. Rick placed a kiss to Michonne's new ring before he intertwined their fingers. They blissfully locked eyes before simultaneously jumping over the broom. Everyone cheered and applauded louder when Rick hoisted a surprised Michonne up to carry down the flower petaled aisle. The recessional followed behind them laughing and clapping, abundantly happy for the newly announced couple.

At last

My love has come along

My lonely days are over

And life is like a song

Oh yeah, yeah

At last

To see her husband stride to her now, made Michonne giggle. That walk always did her in. It reminded of the desire she'd had to see him come down the aisle. But now she enjoyed Rick sauntering to her in the center of the empty, installed dance floor. His que being the song that opportunely played when he turned on the radio to drown out any sounds that could've been heard the night she'd returned to him. This song cemented into their love story from then on out.

After the ceremony, friends and family were transferred to the celebration with the help of staff that was hired for the day. Rick informed Dale that they'd be closing the lodge for the weekend just so the staff could attend the ceremony and he had no objections. Photographers captured many bliss filled images of the bride and groom and their wedding party. Then they made their grand entrance to the reception. Shouts and clapping welcomed them to the future they eagerly accepted.

After their entrance, the newlyweds reluctantly parted as they worked the crowd and issued greetings and thanks to all who attended. Yumiko and Andrea were right with the bride to safeguard envelopes, no doubt holding cards filled with monetary favors. Rick and Michonne couldn't keep their eyes off one another yet tried to not be rude as the made the rounds. Rick would try to make escapes when Michonne was close but Shane and Glenn would wrangle him back into his duties until he chortled and resigned to his fate.

Now, he was back with her in his strategically placed arms, lost in her sable brown eyes. Her hands massaging the base of his neck as they swayed to the unhurried rhythm. Rick couldn't resist pressing Michonne to him and she immediately answered with a slow kiss. The other inhabitants of the room had fallen away and it was just them now. Rick mouthed the words to Michonne who hung on every word with baited breath.

You smiled, you smiled

Oh, and then the spell was cast

And here we are in Heaven

For you are mine at last

The last melodies of the song played as Rick guided Michonne's steps.

cough, cough

"May I have this dance?"

They might have been bothered at the interruption but the sound of Carl's voice made them both smile and slightly separate.

"You be careful with my wife." Rick informed him as he placed Michonne's hand in his sons outreached one.

"Of course, she's my new mom."

Michonne's eyes instantly watered from the ease of Carl's unexpected declaration. She didn't attempt to hold back the stray tear, not caring if she streaked her foundation. But Rick dapped at it, causing her look at him to see the matching tears in his eyes. Michonne took a deep breath slowly blowing out the tremble that threatened to have her sobbing.

Rick took a step back, watching fondly as Carl placed his other hand on Michonne's hip and they danced to the next song that commenced. His son grinning elatedly up at her, melting Rick's already thawed heart. Michonne took her hand from his shoulder and rubbed his cheek. And he stepped in closer so they could embrace and the adoring audience clapped overwhelmed by the sight. A son finding a mother and for her, her child.

Individual dances with their parents gave way to the wedding party joining them on the floor. Then other guests were welcomed to dance as well. Up-tempos had everyone showing off their best moves until the inevitable bus stop dances began. Electric and Cha Cha Slide lead way to the Wobble. The best dancers performed and instructed as they all cut loose. The drinks flowed and appetizers were eaten. The celebration was in full swing.

Michonne was happy for the lightness of her dress that had been covered in pinned money as she danced. Cyndie and Rosita helped to collect it off of her, giving it to the mother of the bride to hold on to while her daughter celebrated. The huge tent was tastefully decorated in the same colors of the altar. Tammy Rose had ecstatically taken the role as wedding planner and assured the couple that everything would be perfect. She continued to hustle around until Rick and Michonne caught her before dinner was served.

"We want you to enjoy yourself." Michonne held her hand to keep her still.

"I am…" Rick blinked at her. "I will." They all snickered.

"You should now, everything is perfect just like you said it would be. And we want to thank you." Rick grabbed a glass of champagne from a tray and handed it to her.

"Lord, knows I could've done more but I didn't wanna be too over the top."

"Tammy, what I meant was. You gave me the first push to go apologize to the woman that would become my future wife. So thank you."

"For everything." Michonne beamed and motioned around the room then between her and Rick.

Tammy's face immediately turned weepy and she fanned her face then downed her drink. "Oh, that was good."

Rick and Michonne both hugged her. "You two are more than welcome. Now get to your seats, supper is about to be served."

Carol had worked with the hotels chef to orchestrate the dinner menu. Rick and Michonne being from Georgia made a southern style menu a must. Options of crispy fried chicken, honey glazed ham and blackened catfish as well as fried cauliflower for any vegetarians was served with all the side dishes that would be expected and more.

But the expert baker's concentration was of course the desserts. Artfully designed cupcakes, cookies and cake pops joined the candy tables full array for anyone with a sweet tooth. Now, Rick and Michonne stood in front of a magnificent five tiered Swiss meringue buttercream frosted, decadent double chocolate cake. The confection Carol masterfully created for their big day with edible flowers, a touch of glittery orange piping and candied pearls adorned the layers. The catering staff had just brought it out to keep it from melting too soon.

"Carol, this cake is a masterpiece! You outdid yourself." Michonne hugged her tightly.

"Well, I remembered our first meet and how you could barely pick between the chocolate pastries. I hoped you'd love it. Both of you." she looked to each of them.

"Naw, you didn't have to worry about me. Whatever my wife wants."

"Ohh, I love the sound of that." Michonne purred and Rick couldn't resist stealing a kiss.

The grey pixie cut sporting woman giggled while she held the box with the engraved knife waiting for them to be ready to make the first cut.

"Carol, you made an excellent choice. You know I love chocolate and have a bit of a sweet tooth. Plus, I'm sure Carl will be happy also." Michonne motioned to the boy that bopped on the dancefloor with Sophia.

"I'm glad my parents are taking him and the sugar high back to Georgia for a couple weeks." Rick joked and the women giggled.

"But really Carol, I want to thank you for telling me to take a second glance. Beet cookies, who knew?"

The women chuckled while Rick was a bit perplexed. "Well, whatever that means. We still want to thank you for everything."

"Of course, it was my pleasure. Now, let's serve this cake before the guests revolt."

"You know it's not fair that you caught the bouquet, right?" Andrea sat next to Michonne griping. All the women from the wedding party and a couple others sat with them snickering at her audacity.

"I think it's absolutely fair." Yumiko retorted with a devilish smirk on her face while Magna fed her a second slice of cake.

It was late in the evening but they could continue the party since it was on their property. Most of the older family members, anyone jetlagged and ones that had indulged a little too much had returned to the lodge. Rick's parents taking Carl and Sophia with them so their parents could enjoy the night fully.

"I heard what your girlfriend said."

"What did she say?" Maryanne asked while eating a cupcake.

"What I said was true." Magna smirked. "We doubled our chances."

The women all laughed. "She is right! And you had an advantage, Andrea. Most of the women here are married." Sasha reminded.

"So what? Anne and Yumiko are amazons! How was I supposed to defy those odds?"

Michonne nearly spit her drink out but nodded in agreement. "Don't worry you can catch it at the next wedding."

"Always a bridesmaid never a bride, I guess." Andrea playfully slumped back in her chair.

"Eduardo seemed to be having lively conversations with Dale tonight." Rosita rubbed her belly, her swollen feet propped up on a chair. "Who knows, after Siddiq and I get our hands on you two next weekend at the retreat, your wedding could be proximo."

A smile like the Cheshire cat spread on Andrea's face. "I'm liking the sound of that. But for now, Eduardo and I have something to do."

"Not at Michonne's wedding reception." Yumiko warned and Andrea's eyes gleamed.

"For your information, we are saving that for our luxurious room. Well, only the room tonight." then she winked making them all tipsily cackle before she went to her boyfriend, the two quickly exiting the tent.

"What is she up to?" Michonne wondered along with the other women.

A moment later, Shane carried a chair placing it in the center of the dancefloor. And they were confused for a second as to what it was for. But then it came to them, up next was the removal of the garter belt. The DJ hadn't even announced the activity but the remaining dancers began to clear the space.

"Mrs. Grimes, there's your que." Yumiko announced.

Michonne giggled then strolled to her seat watching Rick talk in a huddle nearby with a few of the guys.

"Oh, Rick here's the oil you requested." Jesus smirked as he passed the small bottle over.

"Thank you for this." Rick grinned slyly at the bottle and Glenn and Siddiq wore puzzled looks.

"What's that for?" Glenn asked.

"Let's just say one of Michonne and I's first encounters happened after a massage with this stuff."

"That's a great honeymoon gift." Siddiq patted Jesus' back.

"Uh, that works too but I think Rick here has got other plans for it."

"Are you about to do what I think you are gonna do?" Shane chuckled encouragingly.

"What?" Glenn was even more confused.

"Well, my best friend here can't wait until their honeymoon in…what's it? Where's it ya'll are going again?" Shane inquired.

"Turks and Caicos. Grand Turk to be exact." Rick rubbed the bottle between his hands warming it.

"Sweet!" Glenn nodded approvingly.

"So he wants to give his new bride a treat during a little wedding tradition."

Rick chuckled unbelievably. "I almost can't accept I'm about to do this."

"Shall I have the DJ play something more fitting?" Jesus offered.

"Yeah, let's see what he's got." Shane rubbed his hands together as the two walked to the booth.

"I still don't know what's happening." Glenn looked around before it hit him. "Oh, this is gonna be good."

The guys all chuckled as the crowd gathered around to watch. Then suddenly The Weeknd's song Earned It began to play and the crowd exploded in cheers. Michonne couldn't help but squirm in her seat while she watched Rick unhurriedly stride towards her. His eyes sweeping over her as he chewed his lip in the sexiest manner. Her mind trying to anticipate and prepare itself for what was to come while also calming it from going too far.

But Rick unexpectedly stilled right before her then turned to the tents entrance. Michonne and everyone else followed his lead to see Eduardo hustle in with two large pitchers while Andrea carried a metal basin and towel. They sat the items down in front of her then scurried away.

Rick kneeled before her, draping the towel around his neck then began to untie the strings of her sandals. He maintained eye contact to catch hers twinkle with delighted realization. He was combining a foot washing ceremony with the garter removal. Astonishing her so much that she knew he could hear her jagged breaths above him.

Rick gently placed her feet in the basin and she quickly lifted the ends of her dress to rest on her knees. The warm water trickled over her feet relaxing her a bit. Then her heartbeat was only heightened again when Rick began to tenderly massage her feet. The sensual nature of the foot washing was overpowering her with her husband's message of humility, service and love.

"I'm glad our parents and the elders have retired for the evening."

"I'm glad the kids were on the verge of passing out. And they were willing to go back with them, so I could do this."

"Yeah, me too." Michonne moaned as he poured the second pitcher of water from higher up her legs.

"So it shouldn't come as a surprise since you know whenever you are around me, I can't keep my hands to myself. And now that you are mine, I don't plan on ever stopping."

Michonne's body vibrated when he used the towel to bloat dry her. "Good. I don't either."

She watched as Rick reached into his back pocket and pulled out a small bottle. He uncapped it and she realized the slow stream he poured was body oil. He rubbed it into his hands then took one foot and began to moisturize her freshly washed skin. When he switched to the other foot, Michonne's body heated and she gripped the chair to help keep her composure. He made his way to her ankles then began to knead the muscles of her calves making her eyes roll closed. His voice roused her from the trance he'd put her in to see that lust clouded his eyes as well.

"I know its early in our marriage…"

"It couldn't be any earlier." they both giggled as he made his way up her shins.

"Maybe it's too, too early."

"Rick Grimes is nervous to ask me for something?" she teased and he snickered.

"Ask your wife for whatever you want, husband."

"Whatever I want?" Michonne sexily grinned and nodded at him as he rounded her knees.

Rick looked around seeing the partygoers all around them but his hands inched their way up further still and he whispered. "I was thinking when we come in from laying on the beach and swimming in the clear blue waters while on our honeymoon that we… we try. Try for a baby."

Michonne didn't show any fright or reservation the way she had in the past. Her eyes studied his before she leaded forward to gently grasp the sides of his face then nodded in the affirmative.

"Yeah?" Rick was more than pleased, he felt triumphant.

"Yeah. We can practice all night long." she coyly smirked and they indulged in a smoldering kiss while he worked the garter loose from her upper thigh.

Rick reluctantly withdrew from the liplock to slide the material down her leg and off her foot. He simply leaned back, raised his hand in the air so the small piece of material was displayed. The few bachelors all looked at each other before Siddiq stepped forward and took the cloth making everyone including Rosita shout and laugh, because it must have been preplanned.

Michonne yelped when Rick swiftly stood and scooped her up from her seat to rest in his strong arms. He pivoted to the exit but briefly paused. "My wife and I are retiring for the night. You all enjoy the rest of the party."

As he began to walk off Michonne shouted. "If we don't make it to the breakfast tomorrow, don't wait!"

The partygoers clapped, laughed and shouted congratulations as the couple escaped their own reception. Rick carried Michonne similarly to the way he had after her bike accident across the now lamp lit field, but this time it was to their home and he smiled down at her.

"How'd I get so lucky finding you?"

"I've been asking myself the same thing for months now. I think it was time we both won a little."

"And we will win, more often than not."

"I love you Mr. Grimes."

"I love you Mrs. Grimes."

A/N~~~**

First, I hoped you enjoyed this story in general but also the wedding/reception because it was tough getting all the parts in without being over the top then trying to add romance. Whew, I hope I succeeded! Also, should a honeymoon one-shot happen?

When I saw Arlene's edit of Rick with the mountainous background this story just came to me but I expected it to be a simple short story. Some hallmark or lifetime quick write, instead it's become my longest story to date lol Thank you Arlene for the amazing cover art you create for me!

I appreciate you all for sticking through this journey with me. I had a bit of writers block last year and life was just getting in the way. But I have so many other Richonne stories I want to tell this year. Thank you for all the lovely reviews, sharing, favoriting and follows on me and my work. I just may have a little something in the works too. My fellow Richonners Muah*

But here's to Keeping Richonne Alive! Love You All!