CHAPTER 5

Jeremy sat at the table in the cabin, enjoying his cup of coffee as well as a few moments of solitude. Josh was up at the camp, dealing with payroll, while Jason and Aaron were discussing the possibility of another army contract, Candy was with the Jemma, Julie, and Lottie, preparing for their wedding the next day. Although he couldn't deny that the past few days had proven somewhat nerve-wracking, Jeremy also couldn't deny that the majority of the reason was due to his nervousness over what Uncle Duncan might or might not do that could have had disastrous repercussions on his and Candy's wedding. However, much to his and everyone else's surprise, having Holly keep him preoccupied as they both took charge of Molly, Christopher, Jacob, and Amie, had been a stroke of genius, although there was no denying just how much of a nervous wreck Jemma had been during the first day or two of the arrangement or even Aaron for that matter. Jeremy couldn't help but shake his head and laugh aloud as he recalled Candy's description of the events.

Given the activities needed to prepare for the wedding, it was decided that to make it easy on everyone, they would take turns preparing the evening meals for the entire Bolt Clan, which would, of course, include Candy, Molly, Christopher, Biddie, Lottie, and Clancey. The first meal was to be at Jemma and Aaron's house and when Jeremy and Josh arrived to escort Candy and Biddie when they asked how their day of wedding preparations had gone, Candy began laughing as Biddie tried to hide her giggles behind her hand. Turning to each other in curious amusement, the two brothers found themselves grinning as Jeremy demanded;

"Okay, you two, what's so funny?"

Regaining her composure, somewhat, Candy began outlining the events that found her and Biddie in such hysterics;

"Don't you two dare say anything about this to her, but it was Jemma's reaction today to your uncle and Holly taking care of Jacob and Amie."

The concern evident on his face, Josh couldn't help but ask'

"Everything went alright, didn't it? I mean, the twins were fine weren't they?"

Nodding, Candy rushed to assure her fiancee and his brother;

"Oh yes, Josh, they were perfectly fine, as were Molly and Christopher. The children weren't the problem, it was Jemma that wasn't doing so well."

Furrowing his brow in worry, Josh demanded;

"Pixie is alright, isn't she, Candy?"

Candy held her hands up in a placating manner;

"Josh, I promise, Jemma is just fine."

Glancing at Biddie with a smile of amusement lighting her features, she ventured in a voice filled with humor;

"Although, I'm quite certain that she'll have no problem sleeping tonight."

Biddie couldn't help but nod in agreement;

"Oh, my heaven's yes, I mean, with all of the running back and forth that she did. Why I'm amazed that the poor thing had enough energy to cook for all of us tonight."

Reassured that their sister was alright, their looks of worry turned to looks of curiosity as Jeremy lifted one eyebrow in question as he turned to Candy;

"Candy, in plain English, what does she mean?"

Nodding, Candy offered;

"Well, let's just say that, had Jacob and Amie needed feeding as often Jemma checked to see if that was the case, your niece and nephew would have looked like little, fat pumpkins from being so full."

Both brother's looked, somewhat, skeptical as Josh pondered aloud;

"Candy, how many times could she have possibly checked?"

Glancing towards Biddie, who was a well-known clock watcher, Candy questioned;

"Biddie would you care to answer that question?"

Nodding, Biddie observed;

"Oh my, why I'd have to say that she checked on them, at least, every fifteen to thirty minutes."

Their eyes widening in shock, Josh asked;

"The WHOLE day?"

Nodding, Candy confirmed;

"Well, for at least most of it, at least until the last hour or two that we were there when she began cooking. It took her that long to realize that they were safe enough in Duncan and Holly's hands, well, that and because Molly promised to come to get us if there were any problems."

Recalling having heard his brother in law's name mentioned, Jeremy reminded;

"So, where does Aaron come into play in this?"

Fielding the question, Biddie piped up;

"Oh, that would be when he came home for lunch."

Shrugging, Josh reminded;

"So what's so unusual about that, I mean, Aaron goes home for lunch most of the time."

Offering him a wry look, Candy quipped;

"Three times in the same day, Joshua?"

Turning to each other, neither brother could keep from laughing as Jeremy offered Candy his arm before shaking his head as he looked at Josh;

"You realize that we're going to have a hard time not teasing them about this, don't you?"

The expression on her face brooking no room for argument, Candy reminded;

"Jeremy Bolt, you promised me that you wouldn't say anything, and considering that Jemma is letting your uncle and Holly care for her babies to keep him from causing problems with our wedding, the least that we can do is not tease her, or Aaron, about their concern for their children."

Turning to Josh to pin him with her bright blue eyes, Candy ordered;

"And that goes for you too, Joshua."

Nodding, both raised their hand as Jeremy swore;

"Candy, I promise that I won't say anything, and neither will Josh."

Jeremy found his thoughts brought back to the present as the cabin door opened as Jason and Aaron entered before Jason motioned towards the cup in Jeremy's hand;

"Is there any more of that left?"

At Jeremy's nod, Jason took two cups from the sideboard as he poured a cup for himself and Aaron before joining his brother and brother in law at the table. Jeremy glanced from one man to the other before pointing out;

"Not that I mind the company, but to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"

Offering his brother in law a wry look, Aaron reminded;

"In case it's slipped your mind, Jeremy, my house happens to be full with an assortment of brides helping my wife, your sister, bake your wedding cake for tomorrow. Not to mention my two children, Candy's brother and sister, your crazy Scottish uncle, and a wild mountain woman, who is babysitting your uncle while he babysits the children."

Motioning to Jason before taking a sip of his coffee, Aaron remarked;

"Your turn."

Tilting his head, Jason advised;

"And my house, little brother, is full of brides who are using the kitchen while my wife and Miss Essie make certain that Candy's dress is fitted and ready so she can walk down the aisle to become YOUR bride tomorrow. Lottie's is full of more brides who are busy decorating for your wedding reception and those who aren't decorating Lottie's are at the church, decorating."

Swallowing the sip of coffee that he had just taken, Aaron pointed out;

"So we decided to keep you company. Given the sacrifices that we're making for you and Candy, we didn't think you'd mind sharing your company and coffee with us."

Shaking his head, Jeremy offered;

"No, not at all."

Although neither could have known it, Jeremy had been debating seeking out one or the other of the two men seated at the table in the hopes of asking for, what he considered some rather important advice. Given just how close his wedding was approaching, he knew that he was cutting his time close, but he wasn't certain who was best to ask for the advice he needed. On one hand, he knew that Jason would be happy to offer his point of view, but Jason had a tendency to be more poetic and dramatic, and while Jeremy often found his brother's personality in those regards to be entertaining, this subject was one that he wanted to be taken with complete seriousness. Given those considerations, he had considered seeking out his brother in law; he knew Aaron took his marriage to Jemma very seriously and he also knew that Aaron would be matter of fact about the issue, but he wasn't as close to Aaron as he naturally was to Jason. However, the two in the same room together gave Jeremy, what he realized was, the perfect opportunity to get a combined piece of advice that he felt he desperately needed. Pushing down his nervousness, Jeremy began;

"I'm actually, gl glad th that you're both h here."

Recognizing the familiar habit that his youngest brother had of stuttering, especially when he was nervous, Jason placed his hand on Jeremy's shoulder as he offered;

"Just calm down, Jeremy. Now, just say what you want to say."

Worried that his presence was part of the issue, Aaron suggested;

"Jason, maybe I should leave."

Shaking his head vehemently, Jeremy exclaimed;

"NO! I want to t talk to you too, A Aaron."

Nodding, Aaron offered;

"Alright, Jeremy, but there's nothing to be nervous or upset about. Like Jason said, just calm down and tell us what's on your mind."

Taking a deep breath as he willed himself to calmness, Jeremy began slowly;

"It's just that I was wondering about, well, Jason, Aaron, I know that you two, when you got married and since you were older, you probably had more, well more..."

Understanding dawning on Aaron, he clasped his hand on the young man's shoulder as he asked quietly;

"Jeremy, are you nervous about your and Candy's wedding night and wondering what to expect?"

Silently, Jeremy nodded as he blushed, something that found Jason venturing;

"But, Jeremy, I explained the facts of life to you, just as I did to Josh, and just as I made certain that Lottie did for Pixie."

Shaking his head, Jeremy lamented;

"Jason, I know what I'm supposed to do, but there are things that I'm just not sure about."

Noticing how he held his head down with his eyes lowered to the table surface, Jason and Aaron glanced at each other as they both realized just what Jeremy was asking. Placing his hand on his brother's shoulder, Jason asked quietly;

"Jeremy, are you worried about what to expect tomorrow night?"

At his slight nod, Jason and Aaron exchanged knowing looks at the realization that Jeremy was asking their advice. Seeing the frustrated look in their brother in law's eyes, Jason begged;

"Excuse us just a minute, Jeremy."

Motioning towards the cabin door, Jason preceded Aaron outside and, once the door was closed, wasn't surprised as he shook his head vehemently;

"No, Jason, I am not going to do it. Sharing advice with you after you and Julie were married was one thing because that's my sister, but Jeremy is a whole other thing."

Placing his hand on his brother in law's shoulder, Jason tried cajoling;

"Aaron, Jeremy is more sensitive, you know that. You and me, well, we were more blasé at his age about this, at least until our wives."

Aaron couldn't help but huff;

"Speak for yourself, Jason. I stopped being 'blasé' about THAT, the first time I took your sister in my arms to teach her how to dance and realized I was falling in love with her."

Shaking his head, he confessed;

"It didn't matter who she was, any other woman I looked at after that I kept comparing to Jemma and every one of them fell very short. Not to mention, whenever anyone refers to the mother of my children, there's only one woman who I want to have that distinction, and that's your sister.

His brow furrowing in frustration, Aaron demanded;

"Just explain one thing to me please; how in the hell do I always end up in this position? Not to mention this is completely unfair, nobody offered to have a heart to heart with me about whether or not I was nervous on mine and Jemma's wedding night. What did you three do; nominate me to be the official spokesman for what to expect on your wedding night in this family?"

Placing his hand on his brother in law's shoulder, Jason made a waving gesture with his other hand;

"Well, Aaron, you and Pixie were the first to marry in the family, so that gave you a headway on experience before me. Plus, you've been married almost a year now and you're a father so you have much more experience in the area then what I do; Julie and I have only been married about three or so months now; remember?"

Heaving a frustrated sigh of resignation, Aaron capitulated;

"Alright, dammit, I'll HELP you talk to Jeremy about this."

Waving his finger at Jason, he vowed;

"But I'm telling you now, you better prepare your speech ahead of time for Josh when it's his turn to get married because I refuse to have another talk like this until Jacob gets married."

Making their way back inside the cabin to join Jeremy at the table, Jason placed his hand on his brother's shoulder as he offered;

"Jeremy, it's only natural that you're a little nervous. I mean you and Candy have been waiting for this for a long time so it's only understandable that you would have concerns."

Seeing the shock registered in his youngest brother's eyes, Jason wasn't surprised when Jeremy looked from him to Aaron to exclaim;

"Really? You mean my worry is natural?"

Turning to focus his attention on their brother in law, Jeremy demanded;

"Aaron, you and Pixie waited longer then Candy and I have, is that how you felt too?"

Deciding that what his brother in law needed most at that moment was blunt honesty, Aaron offered;

"Look, Jeremy, I'm going to be very honest with you about something; the intimate part of mine and your sister's marriage is something that we have always kept to ourselves. I believe that what takes place behind a couple's bedroom door is between them, but I also know that with or without experience, there isn't a man alive who, especially if he loves the woman he's marrying, isn't going to be nervous on his wedding night."

The shock of Aaron's statement registering in his eyes, Jeremy glanced from his brother in law to his brother before demanding;

"Jason, is that how you felt on your wedding night with Julie?"

Allowing his eyes to meet Aaron's for a brief moment, Jason understood the same thing that their brother in law had; what Jeremy needed most right now was blunt honesty and without the gift of gab and all the fine-sounding words that he normally would have used in such a situation. Clearing his throat, Jason slowly nodded;

"Yes, Jeremy, I did."

Shaking his head, Jeremy admitted;

"I don't understand, Jason, Aaron; I mean I would have thought that at your ages you would have had some experience before, well, you know."

Deciding that something a bit stronger than coffee was needed for the remainder of their conversation, Aaron motioned towards the sideboard;

"I'm assuming that it's in the same place as the last time."

At Jason's nod, Aaron grabbed three glasses before opening the cabinet to find a bottle of whiskey before returning to the table to fill each glass liberally as he observed;

"Somehow, I think that, for this conversation, whiskey would be a better choice than coffee."

Taking his chair once more, Aaron took his glass in hand before motioning towards Jason;

"Since he's your brother, I think I'll let you take the lead on this particular topic of conversation."

Offering his former adversary a slight glare, Jason quipped;

"I'll be sure to thank you later, brother in law, as I'm sure your sweet, docile, and even-tempered wife will want to do the same when this comes up in conversation."

Jason couldn't help but find a slight bit of amusement at the look of panic Aaron wore at the idea of facing Jemma's temper; however, his amusement soon turned to sincerity;

"Jeremy, despite what you consider to be your lack of 'experience', the truth is that you're much wiser than we were."

Jeremy couldn't help but stare at his brother in amazement; although Jason had praised him on several occasions, he had never thought to hear his eldest brother refer to him as being 'wise'. Curiosity lighting his blue eyes, Jeremy couldn't help but ask;

"Jason, how is that possible? I mean, you, Josh,"

Turning towards their brother in law, he continued;

"And I'm assuming, Aaron, have all had some experience in this area; I haven't so how on earth does that make me wiser? I mean, I know what's expected physically, but I'm not sure what to expect when it comes to the emotional side."

Shaking his head as he lowered his eyes to the table, Jeremy admitted;

"I'm afraid that I'll disappoint Candy. I know that sounds silly to the two of you, but I'm really afraid that I won't be worth all the wait that we went through to be together."

His heart going out to his youngest brother, Jason ordered;

"Jeremy, look at me."

When he complied, Jason offered;

"The reason that I say you were wiser than what we were is that you saved your first time so that you could share the experience with someone that you truly love, who loves you in return. Do you remember when we were on our way back from New Bedford how you told Josh and me that the brides were very different from the women that you take upstairs for an hour?"

Offering a silent nod as his answer, Jeremy waited as Jason continued;

"Well, just as the brides were different from those girls, there's also a vast difference between being intimate with a woman that you love, and a woman that you take upstairs for an hour. I think you've always known that Jeremy, you knew that, with one, you are only going through the physical motions for some type of entertainment, and the other involves your heart and soul."

Pondering his brother's explanation, Jeremy turned to Aaron to ask;

"Aaron, I know you've always been more serious then Jason has, do you mind if I ask your theory about this? I mean, I know that Jason and Josh's trips weren't ALL business, and..."

Staring at his glass as if studying its contents, Aaron drained the last sip of whiskey before reaching to pour himself another shot before stating rather than asking;

"Let me guess, you'd like to know if I 'enjoyed' myself before marriage the way your brothers did."

Accepting Jeremy's nod as his answer, Aaron sighed in thinly veiled frustrated resignation as he leaned forward to cross his arms on the tabletop before issuing;

"Jeremy, I am about to share something with you and what I say is not to go beyond that cabin door, do I make myself clear?"

Jeremy couldn't help but find himself slightly concerned by the intense determination that he saw in Aaron's eyes as he vowed;

'I swear I'll never say a word, Aaron."

Satisfied with the young man 's promise, Aaron began;

"There's something that I want to make very clear before I say what I'm about to say; Jemma knows every thing that I am about to discuss with you. I'm going to give you this bit of marital advice, and whether or not you put it into practice is up to you; always be honest with each other. I know that the four of you trust each other and always have and while there's certainly nothing wrong with that, the person you marry, that you choose to spend your life with, is the person you should trust more than anyone in the world."

Taking a sip from his glass, Aaron continued;

"Now, as to your question; yes, Jeremy, I'm not going to deny that, when I was about your age, give or take, I was just as guilty as your brothers of spending some of my time 'enjoying' myself with the type of girls that you take upstairs for an hour. Although I'm willing to bet that I didn't experience nearly as much 'enjoyment' as they did, especially Jason."

His curiosity piqued, Jeremy couldn't help but ask;

"I'm pretty sure I know what, or should I say who changed that for you, but when did you notice that YOU wanted it to change?"

Leaning back in his chair, Aaron demanded;

"Do you want the absolute truth?"

At Jeremy's nod, Aaron confessed;

"It started when I began noticing how any woman that I came across I kept comparing to a certain young lady, and I kept finding reasons why I wasn't interested in any of them; but, at the time, I didn't quite realize myself just exactly why I was doing that."

A knowing smile lifting the corners of his mouth, Jeremy prodded;

"I'm guessing the answer finally came to you?

Unable to prevent the amused chuckle, Aaron nodded as he pointed towards the photograph on the fireplace mantle that Jason had insisted on having made of Jemma on her sixteenth birthday;

"Yes, I realized the first time that I took your sister in my arms to teach her to dance that the reason no one interested me was that I was falling in love with your sister. And believe me, that realization his me like a ton of bricks, especially considering that she was sixteen at the time and I was almost thirty-two. I tried finding interest in other women, but no matter how hard I tried, I always compared them to her and no one else could compare; long story short, I wanted the girl I loved and that was Jemma and they weren't her."

Motioning towards Jason, Aaron offered;

"Now, having explained that to you, let me explain this and I think that Jason will agree with what I'm about to say. No matter how much 'physical' experience you may or may not have when it comes to the first time you're intimate with the woman that you love enough to want to spend your life with as your wife, that 'experience' is nothing more than a mechanical knowledge."

Turning from one to the other, the youngest Bolt male turned to Jason to demand in an astonished voice;

"Jason, even with all of the bragging that you used to do about the fun that you had when you'd go to Olympia, Tacoma, and San Francisco, is that close to how you felt about it?"

Pushing his, normally, boisterous ego deep down, Jason decided that, if ever there was a time to be candidly honest with his youngest brother, this was it. Taking a sip from his glass, Jason admitted;

"Jeremy, although my reasons weren't as decidedly determined as Aaron's, they were still somewhat along the same lines. You see, what I wasn't telling you and Josh when I returned from those trips was that, yes, I might have had the company of an attractive woman for a short time to 'occupy' my time, but that was all there was to that. When our time together was finished, if anything, I felt a little more empty inside then what I did before."

Glancing to their brother in law, Jeremy found the same reaction of shock and surprise in the expression Aaron wore similar to his own. Being the first to recover, Aaron couldn't help but ask;

"Jason, you never seemed to act anything but happy and carefree about your bachelorhood, at least not until Julie came along."

Shaking his head, Jason turned to Jeremy before confessing further;

"Jeremy, I want this to be between us, that means no Josh and no Pixie. I think that, with what you're about to take on with Molly and Christopher, you might understand this a bit better then they would, although Pixie might understand some of it since she has children of her own."

Nodding towards Aaron, Jason ventured;

"Actually, I think that Aaron can understand this for the same reason as Pixie might and because of Julie. You see, Jeremy, I put you, Josh, and Pixie first after Mother and Father died, you three were the most important things in the world to me and I was determined that you would never be made to feel that you were in the way, and there wasn't really anyone that I met when the three of you were younger who I was willing to trust to be an influence in your lives, let alone marry them. To be quite honest with you, I didn't meet anyone, at least until Julie, that I couldn't imagine not spending my life with. Whenever I spent time with those other women, it just reminded me that, while I might well have found some physical enjoyment, there was nothing beyond that to be found. In a lot of ways I envy you because what you will be sharing tomorrow night will be a very special gift and it's something that you will be sharing for the first time with the woman you love, something that will make your experience a great deal more special and magical then what Aaron, Josh, and I had for our first experiences."

Jeremy sat, stunned by his brother's admission before turning to his brother in law;

"Aaron, is that how you felt, as far as your first 'experience' at least?"

Offering a slight shake of his head, Aaron admitted;

"Jeremy, I don't want any of this to go beyond these walls, and before I say what I'm about to say I want something clearly understood; it's not something that I'm particularly proud of and before you ask, yes, Jemma knows. Now, as far as my first experience goes, my father, in his infinite wisdom, decided that, when I was eighteen, it was time that I should have more intimate knowledge of the fairer sex."

Jason and Jeremy exchanged wide-eyed looks as Aaron shook his head ruefully;

"Little did I know that when he insisted I go out with some men close to my age who were in his employ one evening that I was being taken to expand my 'education'. I'm not going to go into details, but as far as how I felt about it, Jeremy, in my youth and ignorance I tried convincing myself that, because it was what I was told a 'real man' was supposed to do, my experience was an enjoyable one. The truth of the matter was that I resented my father for a long time for forcing me into that position; it took me a long time to forgive him and it was only after realizing that he was carrying on what he thought was a tradition since his father had done the same with him. Although, admittedly, I suppose in a way that I owe him a very huge 'thank you' for what he did."

Jason found himself staring in astonishment as he demanded;

"How in the hell can you say you owe him a 'thank you', especially considering how you, obviously, felt about it?"

Aaron offered a slight shrug;

"Because, Jason, had I not been forced into that experience by my father's insistence and realized what I DIDN'T want in an intimate relationship with a woman, I might well not have appreciated just how special such a relationship can be when it's with the woman you love, especially when she shares those same feelings."

Facing the youngest Bolt brother, Aaron advised;

"Jeremy, the bottom line here is that the only thing I gained by my 'experience' is first-hand knowledge of the mechanics of the act. But I will tell you this; I might well have had that knowledge, but I felt like I was almost as much of an innocent as Jemma was on our wedding night. The only thing that I gained from the prior experience was a full understanding of just how magical and wonderful what your sister and I share between us truly is, but only a damn fool wouldn't have been able to understand that."

Jeremy found himself almost overwhelmed by the air of sincerity surrounding Aaron, as he pinned him with his eyes;

"Jeremy, you were the smart one to have waited to share your first experience with the woman you love and plan on spending your life with. As far as what to expect and what you should do, I'm going to give you the same advice I gave your brother when he and Julie got married; don't let any gossip you've heard from the other men dictate what you should or shouldn't do when it's just you and Candy. Let your love, your feelings for each other, and your instincts guide you in that direction and just act naturally with each other and you'll be fine. Although I will also tell you this; don't try to compare your marriage to anyone else's, you are two different people and your marriage won't be like anyone else's."

Seeing that his brother was mulling over everything that Aaron had said, Jason wasn't surprised when he turned towards him to demand;

"Jason, is that similar to what you felt? I mean, I know that Aaron and Pixie waited for some time to marry and knew they loved each other, but what about the rest?"

Leaning back in his chair to brace his elbows on the arms as he clasped his hands together in a prayerful manner, Jason offered;

"Yes, Jeremy, except for the fact that our Father didn't decide to 'take care of matters' as Aaron's did. Rather, on my first trip with some of the boys to tend to some logging camp business, I found myself agreeing to something that I didn't particularly want to agree to, but since I wanted to fit in and earn the men's respect I went along with it; the truth is that I wish I had stuck by my principals the way that you have."

Waving his hand towards their brother in law, Jason observed;

"The other difference would be Dana; I know that we would not have had a happy marriage, we were too different in so many areas. But, she showed me what it was to care deeply for someone and when Julie came into my life I knew that, given how much I cared for Dana and the fact that I was willing to try to live as an Amish man to be with her, what I felt for Julie was even stronger and I had no doubts, as I did with Dana, that I would succeed in accomplishing whatever I needed to for Julie's sake. Of course, the irony of it all was that Julie never asked for anything or required anything aside from my admitting that I loved her."

Reaching for his glass of whiskey, Jason stared at the contents for a moment before draining the glass before continuing;

"As far as what Aaron explained, he's right, it is different for everyone. But, like him, I found myself experiencing something similar with Julie on our wedding night that, I'm sure, he experienced with Pixie; the first-hand knowledge of the mechanics of the act was nothing compared to sharing the magic that can only be found between two people who love each other and are sharing the gift of themselves with each other. To be honest with you, little brother, I felt like more of a virgin on my wedding night at thirty-six years old then what I did when I spent the evening with the woman, who I can't even remember what she looked like, at seventeen years old."

Seeing the puzzlement in the young man's eyes, Aaron offered his explanation;

"Jason's right, Jeremy. You see, for me at least, I felt that way because the only part of myself invested in my 'experiences' was my physical presence and that was all that I wanted to invest, although not even that if truth be told. But, I thought that, as a man, that was what was expected of me on some level and I treated it like an obligation of sorts. However, when I fell in love with Jemma and came to the realization and determination that I wanted to marry her and share my life with her, I knew that I couldn't think of being intimate with her as an obligation. To be honest, any doubts that I had to the contrary were eliminated the first time I held her, kissed her, and looked into her eyes and found myself wanting to give everything I had to her, and I don't mean in the material sense."

Shaking his head as he laughed ruefully, Aaron confessed;

"You want to know what's so ironic? As tight-fisted as you Bolts have always accused me of being, all THAT particular Bolt has ever had to do was just look up at me with those eyes of hers and she can have anything she wants for the asking, but she never asks for anything."

Jeremy and Jason shared a knowing look full of amusement at their brother in law's admission before Jeremy turned to his brother for confirmation;

"Jason, I know that what you and Aaron experienced was probably different from each other and that mine will probably be different still, but..."

Deciding to put his own experience bluntly, Jason admitted;

"Jeremy; I think what Aaron was trying to convey was that, when you share yourself with the woman you love, you want to share EVERYTHING; heart, mind, body, and soul. You want to give her everything that you have, most especially,"

Reaching across he put his hand in the center of his youngest brother's chest for emphasis;

"What's in here; because believe me, brother, there will be no doubts as to the treasure that she is gifting you with when she shares your bed."

Although he didn't want to contemplate this particular aspect of what would be taking place between he and Candy on their wedding night, he knew that if anyone would understand his reluctance at the thought of hurting the woman he loved in any way, it would be these two. Noticing how Jeremy kept glancing from one to the other of them, Aaron speculated;

"There's something you want to know, isn't there?"

Furrowing his brow in concentration, Jason studied his brother as he nodded in affirmation of Aaron's inquiry before his eyes lit with the illumination of understanding as he ventured;

"You're not just worried about the idea of disappointing Candy are you?"

When Jeremy shook his head and remained silent, the same thought having occurred to Aaron, he wondered;

"Jeremy, are you concerned about what Candy has to go through your first time together?"

Seeing the answer in his eyes, Aaron and Jason exchanged looks as Jason waved his hand towards his brother in law;

"By all means, I think you should take the lead on this one."

Offering him a wry look as he shook his head, Aaron quipped;

"Gee, thanks a lot."

Narrowing his eyes, Aaron warned;

"Needless to say, this stays between us. I don't exactly relish the idea of sharing details of something as private as mine and Jemma's wedding night with her brothers. But, I know how I felt when I had those same concerns and I know that if Jemma knew how worried Jeremy is she would be upset that I didn't help."

Aaron took a deep, steadying breath as he launched in;

"I understand your concern, believe me, Jeremy, any man who loves the girl he marries is going to be concerned about the aspect of causing her pain and the aspect of disappointing his bride; ironically, the two really go hand in hand."

The confusion at Aaron's statement obvious on his face, Jeremy asked for clarification;

"What do you mean about them going hand in hand."

Having realized the same thing as Aaron, Jason offered;

"Jeremy, I know that you understand the mechanics of what takes place on the wedding night between a woman and a man because I made certain that all three of you knew about the facts of life, although in Pixie's case I had Lottie explain them to her because I thought that it would be easier if she learned them from another female. But what Aaron is referring to is the fact that, although there is a certain amount of pain that is involved for a first time bride on her wedding night, which is a fact of life and not something that can be avoided, there are, however, ways that you can help make that eventuality much easier for her."

Jeremy sat, mulling over everything that both men had shared with him at that point before asking quietly;

"Really?"

Turning to Aaron, he demanded;

"Was that the case with you and Pixie?"

Swinging his glance around to his oldest brother, he questioned;

"And you and Julie; was that how it was with you two?"

Making a sweeping gesture with his hand, Aaron invited;

"By all means, Mr. Bolt, why don't you take the lead on this one."

Noting the thinly veiled look of glee in his brother in law's eyes, Jason lifted one eyebrow as he mocked sarcastically;

"Thank you very much, Mr. Stempel."

Meeting the look of curiosity in his brother's eyes with his own look of sincerity, Jason began;

"Yes, Jeremy, that is really possible and, as far as Julie and I go, yes, that was how it was with her and I on our wedding night."

Jeremy braced his arms on top of the table as he asked;

"But how did you get past the awkwardness and what Julie had to suffer?"

Knowing that his admissions were safe with his brother and brother in law, Jason explained;

"Jeremy, believe it or not, we didn't get past it, we got through it. We let our feelings for each other lead our actions and how we responded to each other and,"

Glancing towards Aaron, he chuckled as he offered;

"A very wise man advised me to let my heart lead the way with how I treated my bride and to never be anything but completely honest with her, and to not be afraid or ashamed to let her know just how much I love her, adore her, or just how much I treasure her; add to that always be as concerned of her feelings as you want her to be of yours. To be blunt with you; I made certain that I was as concerned with Julie's enjoyment as I was of my own and was as giving and open with her as I wanted her to be with me. The rest took care of itself."

Jeremy took a few moments to ponder his brother's advice before turning to Aaron;

"Aaron, I can't believe I'm asking this considering it's my baby sister but was that similar to what you learned on your wedding night?"

Aaron nodded;

"Yes, Jeremy, although I'll tell you this much; more than likely, Candy will be as nervous and concerned about tomorrow night as you are and just as afraid of disappointing you as you are her."

Disbelief showing in his eyes, Jeremy couldn't help but question;

"Pixie, nervous, but why? I mean, there was no doubt that you loved her and adored her, there was no way on earth she could have disappointed you."

Finding amusement in Jeremy's observation, Aaron pointed out;

"Jeremy, I have news for you; yes, you're absolutely right, I love and adore my wife very much, if anything more now then the day we married. However, keep something in mind; I know that she loves and adores me just as much but I was worried about the same thing; disappointing and hurting her. Sometimes love and adoration can be a double-edged sword that cuts both ways because, just as it makes you eager and happy when it comes when it comes to doing for the one you feel that way about, it can also worry you because you're afraid that you'll disappoint them."

Aaron gave a slight shake of his head;

"And to answer your earlier question; yes, Jemma was very nervous on our wedding night, but so was I, we were both afraid of disappointing each other. We were just natural with each other and let our feelings lead the way in how we treated and reacted to each other. The bottom line, Jeremy, if the two of you just let your love for each other lead the way then you'll be fine. You and Candy are different from me and Jemma, and Jason and Julie, so you have to find what works for you, but you will don't worry."

Although he knew that he had been given what others might consider an, almost, overwhelming amount of information to consider, Jeremy also knew that he no longer felt worried over what tomorrow night would bring. Oh, he had no doubts that he and Candy would have a few moments of awkwardness and nervousness to face, but he also knew that thanks to their love for each other, they WOULD get past those moments. Taking the glass of whiskey, for the first time, that Aaron had poured for him earlier, Jeremy took a long drink before turning from his brother to his brother in law to observe;

"I know that it took a lot for you two to talk to me about all of this, especially you Aaron, and I want you to know just how much I truly appreciate you're doing that to make things easier for me and Candy."

Raising his hand he vowed;

"And I promise; I will never say one word to anyone, not even Candy, about anything that you two have told me."

Furrowing his brow slightly, Jeremy couldn't help but wonder aloud;

"You know, I know that Lottie will, more than likely, have a talk with Candy about what to expect on our wedding night, but I wonder if Candy might be having a similar conversation."

Meeting each other's looks of amusement, Jason and Aaron, both, burst out in laughter as Aaron pulled his watch from his vest pocket to glance at it before venturing;

"Let's see, I think it's safe to say that, since tonight we're having supper at our house, that would mean that Jemma, Julie, Candy, and Lottie are all together. And, given Candy's natural inquisitiveness and the fact that, when it comes to matters like we just discussed, I would say she's with the three women that she trusts most to answer any questions that she might have honestly, I would say that it's a safe bet that she's having a very similar conversation with our wives and Lottie."

Swallowing back the lump of nerves that he suddenly found lodged in his throat, Jeremy's eyes darted back and forth in a slight panic;

"You, uh, you wouldn't know what, uh, what kind of advice they might be giving her, would you?"

Neither could help in finding the humor at this particular concern of Jeremy's as Jason rushed to assure him;

"Jeremy, now you know that, neither, Lottie, Jemma, or Julie would say anything that you need to worry about. I can promise you that Julie wouldn't say or do anything that could create a problem, you know how much she cares about you and Candy; so rest assured, little brother, I don't think you have anything to worry about."

Clasping the younger man's shoulder, Aaron confirmed;

"And you know good and well that Jemma is going to be the same way, as will Lottie. So, even if they are discussing the same subject that we've been talking about, you can relax because you know good and well that it won't be anything negative."

Jeremy, knowing the truth of both men's statements, motioned towards the bottle;

"Well, I guess that there's only really one thing I can do."

Puzzled, Jason asked;

"And what's that?"

Refilling their glasses, Jeremy lifted his as he suggested;

"I say that we drink a toast to the soon to be Mrs. Jeremy Bolt."

Clinking his glass against Jason's and Aaron's he offered;

"Mrs. Jason Bolt, and last but certainly not least, Mrs. Aaron Stempel; the three prettiest, sweetest, and smartest women in Seattle, if not the Washington territory, and to just how lucky we are to have them in our lives."

Aaron nodded his agreement;

"Amen."

With that all three downed the contents of their glasses before preparing to leave as Jason suggested;

"Well, I don't know about you two, but I'm starving and wouldn't mind seeing what wonderful meal the women have prepared for our enjoyment this evening."

Leaving the Bolt cabin, the three hurried in the direction of Aaron and Jemma's house, eager to satisfy their hunger for food and knowledge of what type of discussion might have taken place between the women.

Julie and Candy had just finished setting the table in the Stempel dining room as Jemma and Lottie brought in the last of the food. Placing her hands on her hips, Candy ventured;

"Maybe I should send Molly and Christopher to get everybody."

Shaking her head as she glanced at the mantel clock that could be seen in the living room from the doorway, Jemma offered;

"Well, you don't have to worry about fetching Aaron, or Jason for that matter, since they were taking care of some business. Trust me, they'll be here anytime now."

Curious, Julie turned;

"And just how can you be so certain of that, Jemma?"

Turning to make her way into the kitchen, Jemma threw over her shoulder;

"Because, Julie, your brother seems to have developed some sort of internal alarm clock and seems to know just when I'm, either, about to set supper on the table or have just finished cooking it. It never seems to fail, mark my words, he'll be stepping through that doorway in..."

Before she could finish her statement the kitchen door opened to Aaron announcing;

"Jemma, I'm home and I've got Jason and Jeremy with me. Oh, and we just saw Josh and Clancey heading this way too."

Laughing openly at the astonished looks on Julie's, Candy's, and Lottie's faces, Jemma offered a grin of satisfaction;

"See, I told you."

Entering the kitchen just as Aaron was drying his hands on a dishtowel while her brothers were washing up to prepare for supper, Jemma hurried over to her husband to eagerly greet;

"Hello, my love."

Tossing the towel towards Jason, Aaron nodded as a warm smile lifted the corners of his mouth as he met his wife's bright, happy, and warm smile to respond;

"Hello, my darlin."

Ignoring the presence of the others, Aaron held her and claimed a sound kiss, lifting his head and seeing the semi shocked looks on everyone's face, he shrugged still holding Jemma as he quipped;

"I don't know why you all look so shocked; you all seem to forget something. First, we're married, not to mention my wife, my house, and..."

Hugging her a bit tighter before placing a kiss on her forehead and releasing her from his embrace, Aaron pointed out;

"Only a damn fool would resist the temptation to kiss such a beautiful woman, especially when she's his wife, and I'd like to think I'm no fool."

Glancing towards each other in silent agreement, Jason and Jeremy nodded as Jason agreed;

"You know something, Aaron, you have a point there."

With that both brothers followed his lead as they approached Julie and Candy to follow Aaron's example as the door opened to admit Josh and Clancey who simply shook their heads at the sight before them as Josh turned to his brother in law to demand;

"I'm surprised that you two aren't following suit."

Lifting his head as he placed his arm around his wife's shoulders, Jason informed Josh;

"And just where do you think we got the idea from?"

Jerking his thumb in the couple's direction, he advised;

"Those two."

Taking Candy's hand, Jeremy shook his head;

"You might have gotten the idea from Pixie and Aaron, but I have news for you, Jason. I never need encouragement to kiss Candy."

Turning to smile into her eyes, Jeremy offered quietly;

"That's an idea I have ALL the time."

Rolling his eyes in that all too familiar Bolt way, Josh offered in a sarcastic tone laced with irritation;

"Well, if the six of you wouldn't mind reining in your 'urges', some of us are hungry and considering that we have a big day tomorrow I'm sure getting to bed early would be a good idea."

Although his outburst had been something of a shock to his family, given the fury of activity that was involved in preparing for Candy and Jeremy's wedding, everyone chocked Josh's show of irritation to that factor. Seeking to break the tension, Jemma turned to her husband;

"Honey, Uncle Duncan, and Holly are upstairs with Molly and Christopher, bathing the twins, would you mind going upstairs and letting them know it's time for supper?"

Understanding her motivation as well as the pleading look in her eyes, Aaron nodded;

"Sure thing, sweetheart."

Motioning towards the doorway, Jemma suggested;

"Why don't we go sit down, everything's already on the table."

Leading the way into the dining room, Jemma silently hoped that her theory regarding her middle brother's recent behavior wasn't an accurate one.

Once everyone had eaten their fill of the meal that the ladies had prepared and enjoyed Jemma's apple pie over some leisurely conversation no one was shocked as Duncan leaned back in his chair to pat his stomach as he complimented;

"Jemma lass, you're just as good, if not better, of a cook as I remember your own mother being."

Finishing the last bite of pie on his plate, Aaron agreed;

"I can't say that I ever had the pleasure of enjoying Julietta's cooking, Duncan, but if it was even half as good as my wife's then I definitely missed something."

Having gotten to know Aaron and Julie, both, a good deal better since his arrival, and especially given the amount of time that he and Holly spent helping to care for the twins, Duncan had developed a fondness for both as well as an admiration. Although he had liked Aaron well enough when he had made his acquaintance on his last visit, he found himself wondering how someone who seemed as serious and, somewhat, somber as Aaron seemed to be could have captured Jemma's heart, especially given her naturally bright and bubbly personality, as well as her independent spirit. However, after having studied the pair, especially when they were unaware that was the case, he couldn't deny the obvious love and adoration between the two, nor the fact that one was as protective as the other when it came to defending their spouse; a lesson he had learned the hard way.

Two days before, Duncan had been discussing some of the old family traditions as he was sitting in the kitchen while Aaron and Jemma bathed Amie and Jacob in preparation to settle them for the evening. Holly had gone back to the dorm to help Biddie with some of the wedding preparations leaving Jemma and Aaron with the task of keeping the Bolt elder occupied for the evening. Motioning towards the infants as their parents were drying and diapering the pair, Duncan ventured;

"I've been doing a bit of thinking about how ya named the wee bairns."

Slipping his son's sleep shirt on with practiced ease, Aaron lifted his head to meet the elder's look as he held Jacob against his chest, he demanded;

"What about their names, Duncan?"

Spreading his hands in a pleading gesture, Duncan demanded;

"Well, why canna you change their names, just a wee bit mind you."

Having finished with dressing Amie as well, Jemma cradled her daughter as she demanded;

"Uncle Duncan, what in heaven's name are you talking about? And what's wrong with their names, we put a great deal of thought into Jacob Aaron and Amelia Carleecia, thank you very much."

Duncan shook his head;

"Oh, not their first names, lass, no, you did yourselves proud there. No, I was thinking that you should consider adding 'Bolt' to their last name."

His eyes darkening in thinly veiled irritation as he glanced towards his wife and children, Aaron made certain to keep the volume of his voice lowered to avoid frightening his son and daughter as he glared at Duncan and stated his position;

"These are mine and Jemma's children."

Looking slightly taken aback, Duncan stammered;

"Well given just how much they look like the two of you, there's no denying that fact, man. But you seem to forget that they're Bolts."

Jemma closed her eyes momentarily as she swallowed the lump of trepidation that had risen in her throat back down as she noticed just how much her husband's jaw tightened at her uncle's statement. She wasn't surprised when he narrowed his eyes to slits of anger before correcting;

"Wrong! They are HALF Bolt, they also happen to be Stempels as well. And before you try to tell me it's 'tradition' then why doesn't Jemma or her brothers carry their mother's maiden name?"

Shaking his head, Aaron solidified his position;

"Duncan, you're my wife's uncle and my children's great uncle and I'll never keep you from seeing them, but let me make this crystal clear; if you want to retain your welcome in my house then you had better get it through your head that the decision as to how these children will be raised isn't something that's up for debate or at the mercy or whim of your 'traditions'. Amie and Jacob's last name is 'Stempel' and that's how it's going to stay."

Turning to face his wife, Aaron advised;

"I'm going to take Jacob upstairs and get him settled."

Watching as he left the room, bringing an abrupt end to the conversation, Duncan shook his head in exasperation;

"Jemma lass, did ya know just how stubborn and unreasonable a man you were marrying?"

Staring at her uncle in disbelief, Jemma inhaled sharply before counting slowly as she tried to gain control of her frustration and temper;

"Uncle Duncan, would you please tell me how you can sit there and say something like that? You just insulted my husband by, not only, suggesting that we change our children's last name to include 'Bolt', but you also seem intent on overlooking the fact that they are not just Bolts, but Stempels as well. Had you married and had children would YOU have insisted that your children's last name included their mother's maiden name?"

Taken aback by her question, Duncan began;

"But, you see lass, that would have been..."

Shifting her daughter in her arms, Jemma ventured;

"Let me guess, 'different'. And just what would that difference be; the fact that it was you and you're a man with the name 'Bolt'? There are three other Bolt males, who, I'm quite certain, will have children which will carry on the name, I don't think that mine and Aaron's children are going to be the last of the newest generation of our family."

Shaking her head, Jemma issued;

"I love you dearly, Uncle, but you need to understand something; yes, I'm proud to be a Bolt, but I'm also just as proud to be a Stempel and to bear my husband's name, just as I plan on making certain that our children are proud of that same fact."

Making her way to the door to follow Aaron's example in settling their daughter for the night, Jemma turned before leaving the room to advise;

"Oh and, Uncle."

When she was certain she had his attention, she narrowed her eyes before advising;

"And this is coming from me, not Aaron; if you wish to continue to enjoy a welcome in this house and in mine and the children's lives, NEVER refer to my husband in any sort of derogatory or critical way again, and especially not under his roof. I won't have it or tolerate it and I won't take the chance on our children hearing it either."

With that, he watched in shock as she left the room, kicking himself mentally, Duncan realized that, yet again, in his stubbornness when it came to his determination where the Bolt clan was concerned, he had caused a problem. However, thanks to Holly's influence and his determination not to let his stubborn pride cause a break in his family, Duncan quickly realized what he needed to do. Making his way to the nursery, he stood at the doorway, unnoticed, observing as Aaron placed his arm around Jemma's shoulders as they stood watching their children as they drifted off to sleep. He couldn't help but feel a stab of guilt as he noticed the edge to Aaron's quiet voice;

"Sweetheart, I know that they are half Bolt and I wouldn't change that fact for anything in the world considering you're the one that contributed that half. But..."

Turning to face him she placed her fingers against his lips to silence the remainder of his statement;

"Darling, they are just as much Stempel as they are Bolt and what he said downstairs I find insulting. When you get down to it, I'm only half Bolt and, obviously, our mother's maiden name wasn't added to 'Bolt',"

Shaking her head, she admitted;

"I don't even know what Mother's maiden name was. Not to mention, if Candy or Julie were to suggest adding Pruitt or Stempel to their Bolt when they have children, he would be fit to be tied over the idea."

Jemma looked into her husband's eyes as she stated adamantly;

"Besides, one of the happiest days in my life was the day that you gave me your name and the day that these two were born to help carry on that name."

Clearing his throat to announce his presence, Duncan stepped into the nursery as he held his hands clasped together and his head lowered to offer;

"Aaron, Jemma, I'd like to apologize. I was wrong for what I said downstairs and I know that. I guess I let my silly stubborn pride run away with my mouth."

Meeting the shocked look that his niece wore with one full of sincerity and regret for his actions, Duncan admitted;

"I should have realized that, just as it means a lot to a man to give his name to the woman he loves and the children they have, it means just as much to the woman too. Can ya ever forgive me?

Glancing at each other and realizing that neither could hold their anger at the man, Aaron nodded;

"I'm fairly certain we can, Duncan."

Offering her agreement, Jemma added;

"Provided that you remember that these are our children and that, while we don't mind you being proud of the fact that they are half Bolt, you remember that they are half Stempel as well."

Stepping around the crib as he looked down on the sleeping infants, a look of loving pride lighting his features, Duncan embraced his niece as he leaned down to kiss her cheek;

"Aye, Jemma lass, that I will, I promise, and if I overstep just push me back inna my place."

Noticing the look of contemplation her uncle wore, Jemma tilted her head in curiosity to demand;

Alright, Uncle, what is running through that mind of yours now?"

Looking down fondly on his only niece, Duncan couldn't help but laugh;

"I was just thinkin about how when I first saw you when you were just a wee little babe, how small you were."

Shaking his head in amusement, he observed;

"Not much has changed in close to twenty-one years, has it?"

Noticing how hard Aaron was trying to keep from laughing, she motioned towards the door as she ordered quietly;

"Alright, you two, that's enough. Out before you wake these two."

Duncan found his thoughts refocused in the present as Julie placed her hand on his shoulder as he apologized;

"I'm sorry, Julie, what was that?"

Motioning towards his plate, Julie repeated;

"I asked were you finished so I could take your plate."

Turning slightly red Duncan nodded as Julie, Jemma, Candy, Biddie, and Lottie finished clearing the dining table. Once the women were behind the closed door of the kitchen, Candy wondered aloud;

"I wonder if they're all in there offering Jeremy marriage advice."

Glancing at each other, Julie and Jemma burst out in laughter as Julie quipped;

"You mean like we did with you earlier today?"

Biddie couldn't help but blush as she offered;

"Oh my stars, I never thought there was THAT much for a bride to remember on her wedding night."

Shaking her head as she handed a plate to her sister in law to dry, Jemma corrected;

"Biddie, there isn't that much to think about, not really. I mean, as long as you and your husband let your love and what's in your hearts guide your actions and how you treat each other then everything else will fall into place naturally; which, by the way, is how a couple should be with each other."

Her expression reflecting her puzzlement as she took the dry dish from Julie, Biddie ventured;

"Maybe I'll understand it better after I have a husband of my own."

Sighing in thinly veiled frustration, she lamented;

"That is IF I ever get a husband of my own."

Hearing the dejection in her voice, Candy placed her arm around Biddie's shoulders as she assured her;

"Biddie, you will, you know that. I know that it's been a while since you heard from Barnabas, and I know that things with Corky don't seem to be moving very quickly, but..."

Her irritation at her friend's situation, more so at the ones causing it, evident, Jemma shook the excess water from her hands before snatching a dish towel to finish drying them as she placed her hand on Biddie's arm to offer;

"Biddie, you are a very sweet, wonderful, and pretty girl and if those two are too blind or stupid to notice that then you are better off without them. There is a man out there with your name written in his heart, even though he may not be aware of it yet."

Shaking her head, Biddie pointed out;

"That's easy for you to say; the girl whose husband waited since she was sixteen to marry her."

Jemma couldn't help but feel slightly taken aback by the sharp turn of Biddie's tone of voice as she offered softly;

"Biddie, believe it or not, I really do understand how you feel."

Shocked by the admission, Biddie demanded;

"You do; how?"

Stepping closer, Julie ventured;

"Biddie, every girl feels like that at some point."

Looking from one to the other of her companions, her gaze resting with Lottie, Biddie asked in a hopeful tone;

"You too, Lottie?"

Nodding as she crossed her arms over her middle, Lottie offered;

"Me too, Biddie."

Motioning towards Jemma, Lottie reminded;

"Biddie, you forget, even though we now know that Aaron waited four years to be able to marry Jemma, that doesn't mean that Jemma knew at the time. She was as in love with him as he was with her and it was two years before either of them knew that; they both spent those years afraid that they loved someone who didn't love them."

Waving her hand towards Julie, she reminded;

'Look what Julie and Jason went through."

Placing her hand over her chest, Candy reminded;

"And you know what Jeremy and I went through. You see Biddie, the circumstances might be different but we've all gone through those feelings, but in the end, it's made us appreciate what we found all that much more."

Hearing the sound of the men approaching and noticing the time, Lottie ventured;

"Well, ladies, I do believe that it's getting late and that it's time to call it a night so that we can all get our beauty sleep for the big day tomorrow."

Hearing the distinct sound of her children's cry, Jemma shook her head as she crossed the space to her children's bassinets before correcting;

"Well, for SOME of us to get our beauty sleep."

None were surprised when they heard the sound of the twins' cries that Aaron pushed his way through everyone to take one of the infant's as his wife took the other before asking;

"Diaper, feeding, or just irritable?"

Offering a slight giggle of amusement, Jemma couldn't help but look up at her husband and quip;

"At the moment? I'm willing to bet all three."

Hurrying with their farewells and after everyone had left and they secured their home for the night, Aaron and Jemma made their way upstairs to the nursery. Once she had finished nursing their daughter, Aaron took charge of changing and settling Amie in her crib as Jemma satisfied their son's hunger before tending to Jacob's needs as well. Certain that the two were full, comfortable, and settled for the night, Aaron placed his arm around Jemma's shoulders and led her to their bedroom. As they were getting ready to retire for the evening, Jemma allowed her curiosity to come to the surface as she was brushing out her hair;

"I'm going to guess that you and Jason were offering Jeremy some sound marital advice during your time together today."

Leaning down to allow her access to his tie, Aaron waited as she calmly undid the slip of silk before venturing;

"Just, as I'm sure, you, Julie, and Lottie were doing for Candy, love."

Tilting her head up to meet his knowing gaze she offered a slight giggle;

"Alright, guilty as charged. Although it was more along the lines of one simple piece of advice."

Letting his arms slide around her waist before pulling her up from her chair as he pulled her close against him, Aaron wondered aloud;

"And just what piece of advice was that, sweetheart?'

Lifting her arms to loop them around his neck, Jemma's fingers began to gently caress the nape of his neck as she replied;

"Oh, just that she and Jeremy need to let their love for each other and what's in their hearts guide their actions and to just act naturally with each other."

The corners of her mouth curling in a flirtatious smile, she reminded;

"As I recall, it was a wonderful bit of advice that a very wise man gave me on our wedding night. I'd like to think that it's served us rather well in, oh, almost a year's time now."

Enjoying the feel of his wife's touch against his skin, Aaron tightened his hold around her waist to lift her and hold her against him before taking full possession of her mouth as her fingers began sliding the buttons of his shirt free to allow her access to his chest. Despite the cool touch of her fingers against his skin, Aaron felt gentle trails of heat wherever she made contact. Breaking the kiss to stare into her eyes, which he noticed seemed to be filled with the emerald sparks of her desire, Aaron shook his head ruefully;

"Jemma love, I don't want to, I mean, should we be..."

Before he could finish expressing his concern, Jemma placed her finger against his lips to silence him before brushing her lips against his as she explained;

"I spoke with Allyn a couple of days ago and she said that I was doing just fine and, as far as if we should, she said that whenever I felt as if I were ready there shouldn't be a problem. I'm not sure about you, love, but I feel as if I'm ready."

Unable to resist the temptation, Aaron's eyes widened in excitement as he purposefully allowed her body to slide down the length of his to set her on her feet just long enough to untie the ribbon that held the neckline of her gown together before gently pushing the neckline apart to allow the gown to slide from her shoulders to let it fall away from her body. His chest heaving with his effort to keep his anxiousness in check, Aaron swept her up in his arms to cross the space to their bed before laying her in the middle before doing away with his own clothing as he joined her and admitted, his voice full of desire;

"You have absolutely no idea just how ready I am or have been for that matter, Jemma my love."

Jemma laid in her husband arms, content in the love and joy that she and Aaron shared between them and, even, amazed in the fact that, if anything, what they shared between them seemed to have become even more special. Glancing up and noticing the peaceful look of contentment that he wore, she reached up to trace his jawline as she ventured;

"Is it just me, or does it seem as if each time is more wonderful than the time before?"

Unable to resist the temptation, Aaron shift her to lay on top of him as he pushed the loose tendrils of hair behind her shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her;

"Sweetheart, considering the fact that we come to love each other more and more every day, it's definitely not just you."

Sighing contentedly, Jemma laid her head on his chest before offering;

"I hope that Candy and Jeremy can be at least half as happy in their marriage as we are in ours."

Absentmindedly, Aaron allowed his hand to caress the length of her back as he agreed;

"So do I, Jemma love, so do I."

Common sense taking charge once more, Aaron shifted her to his side before reaching over to dim the bedside lamp before advising;

"Now, we have a lot to deal with tomorrow and that being the case; you, my darling love, need to get some rest."

Curling up close to her husband's side, Jemma pushed all the details that would need to be dealt with in the morning out of her mind as she closed her eyes. Although the thoughts centering around her middle brother's behavior as of late just wouldn't quite seem to follow the trail of the rest as Jemma silently contemplated Josh's recent attitude. She knew that something was bothering him, something that grew more and more evident as the days wore on, especially since Jason and Julie's wedding, and while she was fairly certain that she knew what that something was, she had no clue as to how to a solution to help her brother. Realizing that she wasn't going to find the answer in a sleepless night, Jemma let herself enjoy the contentment that she felt in her husband's arms as she drifted off to sleep.