Chapter 25: The Bloody Lip
Enjoy!
The morning skies were darkened. There was a storm brewing. Kimberly could feel it in the wind, smell it in the air. It was going to rain. How perfect. By the time Kimberly got into bed it was almost 4:17 am. She made herself go to sleep, knowing she couldn't get much. Kimberly played asleep when Aisha came to check on her before going to shower. Aisha just patted Kim's back and let the bride sleep.
Kimberly was sitting on her couch in her bedroom. It was over 6 hours until the wedding. Kimberly's wedding wasn't until 2pm. It was only 7:30. Kimberly had listened to the weather channel and the weatherman said early morning showers, but a wonderful sunny afternoon. Kimberly stared out the window. There looked to be no end in sight.
"Mommy…" Zeke knocked on the door. Zeke peaked inside his mother's bedroom and found her sitting there. "Mom…Mom?" Zeke came into the room. "Mommy?" Kimberly turned her attention to Zeke. She smiled. "Mommy are you okay?" Kimberly nodded. She patted the couch and Zeke took a seat next to her. Kimberly put her arm around Zeke.
"For so long it used to be just us."
"Yeah, I remember those days. We had fun."
"We did baby."
"Am I to call Noel, Daddy?" Kimberly looked down at Zeke.
"Only if you want to. You can call him Robert or Noel, or Dad. He won't care, he'll love you."
"If you're getting married to Noel, does that mean Daddy is getting married to another woman and I call her Mom too?"
"I don't know baby. You have to talk to your father about that one." Noel had come to make sure Kimberly was awake on time. He didn't want any delays. Aisha was doing her maid of honor duties, but informed Noel, Kimberly was still in bed when she last checked at 7 and it was better to make sure the bride got enough sleep before the wedding.
"We left Daddy because he broke his promises and you said Daddy would never break a promise."
"That was a reason, yes…."
"But what if Daddy promised never to do that again?" Zeke asked. "What if he swore it would never happen again, would you go back to him?"
"It's not that simple Zeke."
"Dad loves you Mommy, he always says that. He wants us to be a family again. Why can't we just go back to that?"
"Sweetie, your father and I will always be a family. A part of me, will always belong to your father because he gave me you and Chuck and… I will always love him for that, but that's it. I have to move on. I love Noel…"
"But you don't love him like you love Dad."
"No. I could never love anyone like I love your father and like I love you and Chuck and everyone…I just I love Noel a special way, the way a man and woman love each other."
"But what about Dad?"
"Your father will be fine, Zeke. He's a strong man. Now, I have to start getting ready. And so do you. Now go." Kimberly cupped Zeke's face and kissed his head. "I love you baby."
"I love you too Mommy."
"Now go." Zeke smiled. Kimberly walked toward the bathroom. Zeke went to the door and found Noel standing there. Noel and Zeke exchanged a long stare.
Aisha came into Kimberly's bedroom. It was pouring down raining outside. Aisha was bringing in the bags of dresses. She was wearing the 'Maid of Honor' tee and shorts, as she had over that her big fluffy yellow robe as Kimberly came from the balcony in her pink fluffy robe. She had looked out into the distance of the pouring rain to see the chapel lit up.
"Stupid rain," Kimberly muttered.
"Oh, just a little wedding tradition."
"It didn't rain the last time."
"Are we having those wedding jitters again?" Aisha asked.
"No, I'm completely relaxed."
"Of course." Kimberly sighed.
"Tommy stopped by last night," Kimberly confessed.
"What? The nerve of that man! I told him to stay away! He said what he needed to say back in the States. He has no right to try and…"
"He didn't come for that."
"Oh really?" Kimberly went into her bag where she hid the black box.
"He came to make sure I keep these safe." Kimberly opened and showed Aisha the gems.
"Oh. Oh!"
"Exactly."
"And you are?" Aisha asked.
"What other choice do I have? He asked me to."
"And what about Dr. Mercer or Jason anyone…but…you."
"I don't know. Maybe I owe him, the world owes him. Besides, it was the only thing to make him go away."
"And that's all that happened?" Kimberly looked at Aisha, though she got a flash of the kisses, the moans she gave as Tommy was pressed against her, fingers buried deep inside. "Kim… Kimberly?"
"Huh?" Kimberly shook her head. "What did you say?"
"Is that all what happened?"
"Of course." Kimberly's mother came into the room helping her mother right next to her. Kimberly quickly hid the gem back into her bag.
"Oh, there is my baby girl!"
"Oh! Nana!" Kimberly hugged her grandmother tightly. "Hi Mom." Kimberly and her mother exchanged kisses.
"Have you showered?" Kimberly shook her head no. "Well, it's still early. Everyone is up though, so that's good. I just woke up Kelly, she's going to bath Adela for us. Zeke promised to take care of Chuck with Robert."
"Wow Mama, I just love that dress on you," Aisha said.
"I wonder why." Mrs. Dumas smiled. She was a wearing a gold off-the-shoulder mock 2 piece embellished top and blush(pink) Charmeuse skirt with champagne golden peep toe shoes. "Those Campbell-Hart designers sure know that looks good." Kimberly smiled.
"Okay." Kimberly hugged her grandmother again and helped her over to the couch.
"So you like your dress too Nana?"
"Of course dear, this is beautiful." Kimberly had to make her grandmother swear not to wear black so Aisha designed this great pewter(silver) metallic chiffon bolero dress with matching 3-quarter sleeve jacket and silver ballet flats. "Well, enough about your mother and I, how are you doing this morning babygirl?"
"Stupid rain."
"It's good luck," Mrs. O'Brien said. "Come, sit on your grandmother's lap. Let's talk." Kimberly smiled. She loved to sit on her grandmother's lap. They hugged. "Now, how are you really?"
"Kind of sleepy."
"Didn't get any sleep last night? Too nervous?"
"I don't think so. I just… I laid awake for the longest, and then I got lost in the garden."
"Why would you go out that late?" Kim's mother asked.
"Just for some fresh air."
"You could have been lost for hours."
"Not that long."
"So did the fresh air help?" Kimberly flashed back to Tommy's kisses. The way he held her face with such passion. No other man could touch her and make her body feel this good.
"No, it didn't help."
"I'm sorry baby."
"It's okay Grandma. I'm getting married!" Kimberly did a silly arm wave to psych herself up. "Woohoo…"
"Don't be too exciting," Aisha said. Kimberly glared at Aisha.
"I am excited. I'm marrying a great man today. I couldn't be happier." Kimberly kissed her grandmother's cheek. "I better go shower and wash my hair."
"Okay."
"Aisha, make sure the boys are up, knowing Zeke, he pretended to be up for Noel and went back to sleep."
"Will do Bride." Kimberly smiled and disappeared into the bathroom. Aisha walked out the room to check on the children.
"She doesn't seem too happy."
"Oh Mother, she is getting married, of course she is happy."
"Daughter, did you see her face?"
"Yes and she seemed okay."
"She looked lost, undecided. I think she need more time."
"More time for what?"
"She is not over that Tommy boy."
"He broke her heart, she has wasted enough time waiting on that boy. Robert is a great guy for Kim. He loves her and those kids so much. And Kim loves him as well."
"You never get over your first love."
"I did." Mrs. O'Brien shook her head.
The Thompson mansion had it's own church chapel built on the estate. It was a beautiful little cottage that Noel had Juliet the wedding planner turn into the perfect wedding ceremony spot. Kimberly and the bridal party were attacked by paparazzi on their way to the Chapel. It was great that it had stopped raining and with the gardeners working overtime to dry the area, it was almost as if it hadn't rained at all. Kimberly's mother quickly was covering her daughter with her jacket and umbrella. Though the photographers were behind a man-made gate, their lights from the cameras were blinding as Kimberly stepped from the limo with help.
"This is ridiculous!" Kimberly cried out, rushing around to the bridal tent right outside the chapel.
"Oh, what did you expect, superstar," Kelly said carrying Adela with a blanket over her head as well. Kimberly shook her head. "You are marrying one of England's hottest bachelors and you are a star from the States. It's like Beckham and Posh all over again."
"I don't think it's that close," Kimberly said.
"Let's start getting ready ladies, it's almost noon." Kimberly looked at her mother and nodded. The hairdresser worked on the bridesmaids first. Aisha, Tracy, Kelly, Serena and Denise were Kim's ladies with Aisha leading the 4 of them. Kelley was Kim's uncle's only daughter, now 21 years old. Tracy was still working with Mr. Hansen after all these years, but now owning apart of the Gallery thanks to her contribution of years. And Serena and Denise were Noel's older sisters and they requested to be in the wedding. And since Noel couldn't choose just 2 groomsmen, he had 5 guys to stand with him, one being Zeke because Kimberly requested if his sisters had to be apart of her bridal party, Zeke would be apart of Noel. Kimberly had Adela as the flower girl and Chuck would carry the rings as well. There was a photographer following Kimberly and Noel from their bedroom up until the wedding march. Kimberly was watching as the photographer snapped away as the ladies were getting ready for the wedding.
Kimberly had all her bridesmaids in a pink strapless bodice with center draped hip sash, and beaded buttons meet the split front overlay on the A-line skirt. There was a matching Shawl. All the girls had to wear ivory silk peep-toe shoes with rhinestone ornament. Kelly was the only one complaining, not liking the heels, but hushed when Aisha looked at her. Kimberly loved her crepe and satin high heel slingback shoes. She sat in front of her mirror just in her satin white corset with her robe hanging loosely over her shoulders. The ladies were just finishing each other's make-up. Kimberly was fixing a few curls in her hair. They had already dressed Adela first. She looked ever so adorable in her ivory shoulder straps support the sleeveless bodice dress with a delicate beading pattern accenting the set in waistband and back bow. The full skirt has pearl beading sprinkled onto the ruched pick-ups. It was the perfect combo, adorable and sweet for a 3 year old. Kimberly was fixing Adela's headband to push some curls from her face.
"Auntie Kim, where's Tommy?"
"He's not going to be here sweetie, now let's put some lipgloss on your lips. Pucker up!" Adela did. Kimberly put a little blush on her cheeks to make them pinker. Kimberly had a felling Adela was going to be a beauty queen one of these days. Kim and her father already treat her as a little princess. "Now, here is your basket." Adela took the ivory flower basket. Kimberly pulled out the box of pink rose petals. "Now, do not put the petals in until it's time." Kimberly pulled out a coloring book and crayons. "Don't get dirty."
"Yes Auntie." Kimberly kissed Adela's cheek and shooed her over to a small table and chair away from the women getting dressed. Kimberly went to doing her eyes after finishing Adela.
"Hey lady, I'm coming at you next," Aisha said with her make-up kit. Though Kim didn't need help, Aisha always wanted to make sure. Kimberly smiled. As Aisha worked on Kim's make up and hair, Kim's mother pulled out a bag hidden from Kimberly. These were the last gifts given to the bride.
"Okay, these would have been given out last night, but someone was too tired." Kimberly smiled as Aisha applied a thin layer of eyeliner. "And since Aisha is working, I will do the honors."
"Take it away Mama Dumas," Kimberly and Aisha said at the same time. Kim's mother smiled. Aisha pulled Kim's hair back into a bun with a crystal pear floral comb, which would help with her ivory Cathedral corded edge 2-tier veil.
"Now, here is your something borrowed." Kimberly looked to find a pearl bracelet. "It's tradition for the bride to wear pearls for luck, and these were my great-grandmother's pearls. Wear them well."
"I will Mommy, thank you." Kelly helped her aunt put the bracelet on Kim's wrist. Serena and Denise went over to get the next gift. They walked over the wedding dress bag. Denise opened the bag to reveal Kim's wedding dress.
"And here is your something old. My mother wore this at her wedding. All the women that become Thompsons have wore this dress. I was sad when Mom gave this dress to Rob, but I understood and I welcome you, Kimberly, to wear this dress and become apart of the family." Kimberly didn't even get a chance to see the dress since it was her surprise. She got fitted with a blindfold. Kimberly gasped. It was so beautiful.
"We had to modernize it up for ya, of course," Serena said.
"Of course," Kimberly said.
"I mean, who wants to wear the same dress a woman wore back in the 1900s." Kimberly laughed with Serena and Denise.
"It's beautiful."
"And it will look much better on you," Denise said. Kimberly sniffed.
"Hey now, I just finished those eyes. Cry at the reception." Kimberly laughed.
"I promise." Kimberly took deep breaths. Serena handed Kelly a box from the bag.
"And here is your something new." Kelly opened a small gray box knowing these would knock Kim's socks off. Kimberly gasped. There in that gray box had to be the biggest set of chandelier crystal pear shaped drop earrings in the world.
"And every Thompson woman gets a specialty made pair of crystal diamond earrings for her wedding. Mine were bigger." Kimberly looked up at Denise and smiled.
"Oh my gosh! These are… wow…"
"And last, but not least, here is your something blue." Kim's mother pulled out a lacy garter. Kimberly laughed and took it. "There, all done with the gifts."
"Thank you, all of you." They all hugged.
"Well, let's get you into that dress."
Aisha turned the music on low that had been going on during the whole time, as Kimberly was finally fully dressed. Kimberly stood in her light ivory strapless neckline is edged with crystal beading on the ruched, A-line gown. Beading decorates the set in midriff and crystals are tucked into the skirt pick-ups and onto the modified, chapel length train. She turned to see everyone's face for the first time.
"Well, how do I look?" Kimberly asked. Kim's mother was lost for worlds.
"Stunning…"
"Gorgeous…"
"Beautiful…"
"Wicked." Everyone turned to Kelly. "What?" Kimberly shook her head. Kimberly's mother went to fluff out the bottom before stepping back to take photos in her own camera.
"Mom…"
"What? I don't care how much this Juliet paid for photographers and cameramen, I want my own pictures." Kimberly smiled. "Besides, you look incredible. I can't believe I used to change your diapers."
"Mom!" Everyone laughed.
Once everyone was perfect, they went outside under the sun to take photos after taking a whole roll of film inside the tent together. Kimberly took many solo pictures outside the chapel, since the guys were already inside. It was getting close to the start of the wedding. Kimberly stood with her bridesmaids before her mother and grandmother for the last of the pictures. Tim would come to walk his mother down the aisle. It was getting closer to 2pm by the time the photographer finished snapping another roll of film.
"Okay ladies, the Minister said the place is packed." Kim's father came into the ladies.
"5 minutes later."
"Hi Daddy!"
"Oh baby, you look soo…wonderful." Kimberly smiled and hugged her father.
"Daddy, you're going to make me cry."
"Sorry baby." Kimberly waited in the tent as Tim brought over Zeke and Chuck.
"Oh look at my babies." Kimberly gave them kisses.
"Mommy, you look beautiful."
"Thanks Zeke." Kimberly exchanges kisses with everyone before they lined up. Aisha was the last one to see Kimberly's face before she pulled the veil over her face. Adela would be the last one to walk solo down the aisle after Chuck. Tim gave his daughter several kisses before he walked his grandmother down the aisle followed by Kim's mother and stepfather. They took the final seats up front on the bride's side of the chapel with one seat left. Noel's groomsmen and the bridesmaids took their walks with Aisha and Edward, Noel's best friend since middle school, were last up. It was funny when Zeke walked with Kelly. Kimberly clinched her bridal bouquet to her chest, it was made up of white roses, pink orchids, purple dendrobium and pink pearls.
"You ready baby?"
"Hold me tight, Daddy," Kimberly said squeezing his arm as she held on.
"I won't let you go. Just remember to smile and breath."
"Breathing is good." Kimberly laughed. "Do I look alright Daddy?"
"Beautiful." He kissed her forehead through her veil. Kimberly took another deep breath. "Stop fidgeting baby girl. You're going to get yourself worked up."
"Yeah." Kimberly let out a laugh. "Okay." They slowly made the trip from the tent to the doors of the chapel.
Before the start of the wedding, Tommy was sitting down the block from the Thompson estate. He had tried to get in for the wedding, but was showed the exit since he wasn't on the list. He couldn't believe Kimberly would keep him out. No, he knew Kimberly wouldn't have done that, it had to be Noel. Noel would be the only one to shut him out Kim's life. Tommy watched as most the guests walked by to the estate. He knew he just had to get inside. He had to stop this wedding. Tommy went to turn off the rental car when a song stopped him.
Sometimes a man has to choose
And do something he doesn't wanna do
Do I live my life with you as my wife
Or do I go on and pursue my lifetime dream
I gotta do this for me
Cuz if I don't I'll probably regret it
But if I do I'll probably regret it
How do I cope
[Chorus:]
How do you cope when
The one you love is with somebody else
And there's nothing you could do about it
How do I deal with
The fact that you had a chance
But you chose to turn away for your love
I gotta take it though it's heartbreakin'
It's something that I had to do
But nobody said that it would hurt so bad
So how do I live...how do I deal without you
It's killing me to know
That your heart's with me
But you're with him cause I chose
To be in this industry
Money, shows, and hoes come along with luxury and pain
Is all you see when you think about it
But this is the life that I was given
So I have to live it to the fullest
But how do I deal in the meantime without you
[Chorus]
How do you deal when you can't be with
the one you love but the one you love is
with somebody else
What do you do when you know she don't love him
but she love me but she cant stand lovin' you faraway
you just deal with it, deal with it
(I don't wanna have to live with it)
you just deal with it, deal with it
(no,no,no)
you just deal with it, deal with it
(I don't want nobody else a lovin' you)
you just deal with it, deal with it
(I don't nobody else a lovin' me)
Tommy quickly turned off the radio and the car before the song could finish. He wasn't losing Kimberly. Not today, not any day! Tommy didn't care that he was strictly told to stay away. He was getting into this wedding. Tommy sees a group of photographers from the news waiting. He is able to steal a photographer's invitation and some equipment to pretend to be him get into the estate. It was almost a close call when the guard called Tommy back, but it was only because he dropped some film. Tommy thanked the guard and rushed toward the chapel.
Everyone quickly stood up once the wedding march music started. Noel had the best orchestra playing classical song by Handel for the family to walks in first, for the groomsmen and bridesmaids, the song by Enya 'Only Time'. But for the wedding march, Kimberly just wanted a simple solo guitar and piano of the classical song, Ave Maria to start before it turned into the wedding march. Noel stood there smiling as music begins. Everyone turned as the doors opened and Kimberly and her father came walking through the door. Noel's breath left him at the sight of Kimberly. Kimberly stared ahead, focusing all her attention on Noel. He was smiling. Kimberly took the small walk, holding her father's arm tightly to a new beginning.
The song stopped as father and daughter came to the altar. Aisha quickly went behind Kimberly and fixed her veil and the back of her train behind her. Kimberly smiled. Father Mark raised his hands for all to sit down.
"Welcome… welcome, welcome, family, friends and other guests… We are gathered here today to bring together this lovely, beautiful couple in holy matrimony...." Father Mark smiled. "We begin with the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." Everyone followed Father Mark. "You may be seated." Everyone standing took a seat. All of a sudden, the choir started singing to the piano of the great Christian song, "Breathe".
This is the air I breathe
This is the air I breathe
Your holy presence living in me
You are our daily bread
You are our daily bread
Your very word spoken to me
And I, I'm desperate for you
And I, I'm, I'm lost without you
And I I'm desperate for you
And I I'm, I'm lost without you
This is the air I breathe
This is the air I breathe
Your holy presence living in me
This is my daily bread
this is my daily bread
your very word spoken to me
And I'm, I'm desperate for you
And I'm, I'm lost without you
"God is love, and those who live in love, live in God, and God lives in them. We as a community of friends are gathered here in God's presence to celebrate and witness the marriage of Robert Noel Thompson and Kimberly Ann Hart, and ask God's blessing on them. They would ask for your support and encouragement today as you witness this wedding service, and in the future as you witness their continued marriage. Let us pray." Everyone's head bowed down as Father Mark opened his bible. After the short prayer, Kimberly opened her eyes and looked over at Noel. His eyes had never left her. They shared a smile. "Noel and Kimberly, in presenting yourselves here today to be joined in marriage, you perform an act of faith. This faith can grow and develop and last, but only if you both decide to make it so. A lasting and growing love is not guaranteed by any ritual. If you would have the foundation of your marriage be the devotion you have for one another, not just at this moment, but for all the days to come, then treasure the hopes and dreams that you bring here today. Establish that your love will never be blotted out by the common nor obscured by the ordinary in life. Faults will surface where now you find comfort, and admiration can be shattered by the routine of daily life. Dedication, love, and joy can grow only when you nourish them together. Stand fast in that hope and confidence, having faith in your shared destiny just as strongly as you have faith in yourselves and in one another today. Only with this spirit can you forge a union that will strengthen and endure all the days of your lives." Father Mark opened his hands turned to Kimberly and her father. "Into this holy estate these two persons present come now to be joined. Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"
"I do, her father." Kimberly smiled. Mr. Hart held and kissed both of Kim's cheeks. "I love you."
"I love you too Daddy." Mr. Hart kissed her forehead, not wanting to let go. He missed the first wedding. "Daddy…"
"Sorry baby." Mr. Hart let go and went to take his seat next to Kim's mother. Mrs. Dumas took her ex-husband's hand. She handed over a handkerchief and patted his arm before turning back to the wedding before her.
"I require and charge you both that if either of you know any impediment why you may not be lawfully joined together in matrimony, you confess it now. Be assured that if any persons are joined together otherwise than as God's word allows, their marriage is not lawful. If any one can show just cause why they may not be lawfully joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."
Tommy came walking down the aisle at that very moment. Jason motioned for Tommy to do something and not just stand there, but Tommy just stood there. Katherine tried to hush and stop Jason from distracting her from the wedding, but when he nudged her hard to get her attention, Katherine gasped. Katherine looked back to see Tommy standing there.
"Oh no," Katherine groaned. Adam and Tanya were hit by Rocky to look back as well, followed by Zack, Billy and the others. All eyes turned from the groom and bride, as Tommy stood alone in the aisle. A shiver went down Kim's back. Something bad was about to happen. Noel felt her tense. Tommy cleared his throat.
"Kim…" Kimberly closed her eyes and slowly turned her head. She gasped when she saw Tommy standing there. Noel and Kimberly turned at the same.
"Uh sir, do you have something to say?" Tommy and Kimberly looked at each other. She shook her head.
"Kimberly…"
"Tommy no…"
"I love you." Everyone gasped. Tommy stood there smiling. Kimberly's face wasn't angry, he knew if he were wrong, she would be angry, not sad to see him. "And I know you love me too. Don't do this…Don't give up on us."
"Shut him up!" Noel yelled.
"Take my hand Beautiful, take it and we can be together again. Together as we are meant to be!"
"Get him out of here!" Noel yelled.
"Dad!" Zeke yelled as some groomsmen ran down to stop Tommy. Tommy fought against them, knocking them away. Jason, Adam, Rocky, Billy and Zack went to help, but Katherine and Tanya stopped them. The crowd somewhat moved away from the huge fighting.
"Hey! He can handle himself!" Katherine shouted. Tommy took down another groomsman.
"Both of you sit down!" Tanya yelled, grabbing Rocky and Adam.
"Tommy please stop it! It's madness!" Kimberly cried out.
"I can't do that Kimberly! I love you too much to let you do this! I know you love me too!" Tommy smiled as he stepped aside from Noel's best man punch, knocking him backward.
"This is enough!" Noel ran down.
"Noel!" Kimberly cried out to stop him. Noel attacked Tommy from behind. Tommy and Noel fought.
"Hey it's not my fault she doesn't want to marry you! It's written all over face!" Noel punched Tommy.
"You don't know anything!" Noel went to hit Tommy again, but Tommy side stepped him.
"Stop it!" Kimberly screamed.
Tommy was put in the tent to get cleaned up as Noel had to do the same with his bloody nose and busted lip. Kimberly came into the tent holding up her wedding dress as she stormed in. Zeke was attempting to help Tommy clean his nose.
"Dad, what are you doing?"
"Trying to win back your mother son."
"I don't think it worked," Jason said. It took Jason, Billy and Adam to hold and take Tommy away from the chapel and around back. Noel's friends had to do the same. Aisha ran into the tent as Kimberly was trying to check on Noel and his condition first. Aisha was yelling at Tommy, though Rocky was trying to calm her down and hold her back when Kimberly arrived.
"How dare you! You stupid, stupid man!" Kimberly had her hands at her waist.
"Get out!" She yelled to everyone. Jason patted Tommy's back. Zeke tried to stay, but Aisha pulled him out.
"But I want to stay!"
"Little man, you do not want to see this," Jason said. Kimberly waited until everyone had left the tent. She pinched the bridge of her nose and bit her bottom lip to suppress some angry, though it wasn't helping at all. Tommy went to stand up, but Kimberly held her hand out for him to stop.
"How dare you ruin my wedding!"
"Kimberly…"
"Don't! How dare you ruin my wedding!"
"Beautiful…."
"Shut the fuck up!" Kimberly yelled. "Are you crazy?" Tommy opened his mouth. "Shut up! You do not talk! This is my wedding day! My wedding! And you… you just ruined everything!"
"I had to! You two have been together 9 months! 9 months Kim! That is not long enough to make this mistake!"
"Shut up!" Kimberly covered her face with her hands. She screamed. "You gave my groom a fucking bloody lip, Tommy. A bloody lip!"
"You shouldn't be marrying him anyway! You love me!"
"No! No, no, no! It's over Tommy! You have no say in my life! We are divorced! It's been over a year Tommy!"
"I don't care if it's been 5, 10, 15, 50 years from now! No guy is good for you! No one but..." Tommy had Kimberly by her arms.
"But you? Tommy, please, stop. You have given me my beautiful boys, something I will always be thankful for, but you and I, we had our chance, we even had a second chance, third, fourth chances. It just doesn't work! We don't work!" Kimberly pulled her arms from Tommy's grasp.
"Of course we do! I love you!"
"This is not love Tommy! This is crazy!"
"You can't marry him Beautiful."
"Please don't call me Beautiful."
"I always call you..." Tommy pulled Kimberly to him, but she held her ground.
"Tommy enough! I am getting married and don't you dare try to stop me again." Noel came to make sure Tommy hadn't convinced Kimberly out of the wedding. He stood outside the tent.
"You are making a mistake!"
"No, saying it was okay for you to come that was a mistake. I should have… I should have had Jason take the boys back and just drop the boys to you after the wedding reception before we left for the honeymoon, but no… I didn't. I was foolish to believe you could handle this." Kimberly picked up her dress.
"Kimberly, don't do this! You love me! You kissed me last night! We almost made lov-!" Kimberly cut Tommy off. She flew back at him and covered his mouth with her hand. "Don't! Don't finish that sentence." Kimberly couldn't, wouldn't let him finish that sentence. "Last night was a mistake okay. I'm sorry I led you to believe…"
"You didn't lead me to believe what I already know what's in your heart. Those kisses, the way you moaned when I…" Kimberly covered his mouth again. "And it felt good. And I felt it just like you did last night. When we kissed, when we…"
"Stop it Tommy! Please, just stop it." Tommy pulled her hand away and kissed Kimberly. The way their lips met, it was heaven. Kimberly moaned as Tommy took her by the waist and pressed her tight against his body. Both couldn't fight how wonderful this felt, kissing. Tommy kissed down Kim's jaw into her neck.
"I know how you feel…" Kimberly sighed, as he kissed every inch of her neck and face. Kimberly went to wrap her arms around Tommy when a realization flooded her mind. She shoved Tommy away.
"You don't know anything!" Kimberly pointed her finger at Tommy. "I want you to leave. Leave right now." Tommy shook his head.
"Then say it!" Tommy yelled. "Say you don't love me!"
"Tommy…"
"Say it and I'll go Kim. Say it Kimberly! Say you don't love me and I'm done trying."
"Goodbye Tommy. Please don't ruin my wedding any more okay." She walked out. Tommy smiled. She couldn't say it. Kimberly saw Noel standing there.
"Noel…"
"Do you want this wedding to happen?" Kimberly looked at Noel confused. "Because if you love him, then you should…" Noel's voice cracked.
"No Noel. Of course I love you."
"You love me?"
"Yes, I love you." Kimberly went to Noel and hugged him. "I love you. And I want to marry you today."
"Okay." Noel put his arm around Kimberly and they walked back to the chapel together.
Father Mark allowed a few moments for everyone to get back into his or her places as the wedding continued.
"Before anything else happens, let's get straight to the vows." Kimberly and Noel were holding hands. Tommy stood in the background, as he watched the two exchange their vows of love and devotion. Kim's mother took back her cloth from Kim's father after the vows.
"Do you Robert Noel Thompson, knowing this woman's love for you and returning it, realizing her strengths and learning form them, recognizing her weaknesses and helping her to overcome them, take Kimberly Ann Hart to be your lawfully wedded wife in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love, honor, comfort, and cherish her from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto her for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Noel said with a smile.
"And do you Kimberly Ann Hart, knowing this man's love for you and returning it, realizing his strengths and learning from them, recognizing his weaknesses and helping him to overcome them, take Robert Noel Thompson to be your lawfully wedded husband in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love, honor, comfort, and cherish him from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto him for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Kimberly whispered.
"The rings." Zeke helped Chuck move forward with the rings. Father Mark took both rings and handed one over to Noel and then to Kimberly. "Noel, repeat after me." Noel looked up at Father Mark and back to Kimberly.
"Kimberly, I give you this ring, as a symbol of our love today. And hence forth I declare myself to be your husband." Noel did and slid the ring on first. Kimberly smiled.
""Kimberly, repeat after me." Kimberly smiled and took a deep breath.
"Noel I give you this ring, as a symbol of our love today. And hence forth I declare myself to be your wife." Kimberly did the same, but a little shaky, so Noel had to finish sliding the ring up his finger.
"Now, I ask you two to lit this candle as a symbol of your unity." Kimberly and Noel each took a small candle and together lit the huge unity candle. "May this day shine eternally in your lives. May it add brilliance to every achievement and cast a divine light over any misfortune. May you care for each other in all sadness. May you give cheer to each other. May you give vitality to each other in all undertakings. May all that is virtuous, beautiful and honest, remain with you always." Kimberly and Noel turned from each other and back to Father Mark. ""Forasmuch as Noel and Kimberly have made this solemn covenant of marriage before God and all of us here, and have confirmed their commitment by the exchange of rings and lighting of this candle. I therefore declare them to be husband and wife, in the name of God and the Creator, Jesus Christ, I pronounce to you all, Mr. and Mrs. Noel Crane. You may kiss your bride, Noel." Noel pulled Kim's veil back and cupped her face, giving her the sweetest, most passionate kiss allowed. Everyone was clapping.
"I am pleased to wish to greet Mr. And Mrs. Robert Thompson as husband and wife." Everyone stood up clapping. Kimberly pulled away from her passionate kiss with Noel she saw Tommy standing way in the back. Tommy walked out the chapel.
The bride and groom stood by the shimmering fountain for photos by a professional photographer paid for. For many pictures were taken with them kissing, as they took that traditional horse and carriage ride around the estate as everyone headed over to the site of the wedding reception. The reception was to be private and very intimate, but Robert then opened the doors for outside photographers, knowing however much they tried to keep them out, they would find a way inside. Supplying the wedding reception was one of the most famous chef, Gordon Ramsay of England. He was friend to the family and cooked for all their special events. His menu expensive for most other wedding, but not for this union had 4 selections everyone could choose from. On the menu was Roasted Loire Valley foie gras with braised carrots and almond foam, Ravioli of lobster, langoustine and salmon with tomato chutney and vinaigrette, Cannon of Cornish lamb with confit shoulder, ratatouille and thyme and Roasted Barbary duck breast with creamed Savoy cabbage, chestnuts and Madeira sauce.
"Okay, I hear the bride and groom will be here any second!" Edward said over the microphone. Everyone stood up, as there was a knock at the door. Noel and Kimberly stood outside the door, as the doors opened, Noel surprised Kimberly and picked her up into his arms. Kimberly wrapped her arms around Noel's neck.
"You are too crazy?"
"What? I'm supposed to carry you in."
"This is not our threshold, Noel?"
"I am not missing a thing." Noel carried Kimberly in to loud cheers. They kissed at the archway before heading in. They were immediately given champagne to a quick toast from Kim's father before ushered off to the dance floor for the first dance so everyone can party before the dinner would be brought out.
The first song was "I Swear" by All-4-One. Noel and Kimberly remembered as if it was yesterday when they were in the coffee shop and on someone's laptop this song started playing.
"May I have this dance, Mrs. Thompson?" Noel asked holding his hand out for her.
"You may." Kimberly took Noel's hand. Noel and Kimberly smiled as they were slow dancing across the floor. Everyone clapped as the song was ending, but Kimberly and Noel didn't stop holding each other tight as they continued to dance and kiss. The DJ knew the couple was not finished so moved on. The music moved next to "I Want To Spend My Lifetime Loving You". Noel and Kimberly kissed and slowed danced together oblivious to anything and anyone beyond them.
Noel and Kimberly walked around their family and friends, getting hugs and kisses that wasn't allowed after the wedding ceremony. Kimberly was at the table with all the former rangers to get hugs and kisses.
"Oh, Kim, you look gorgeous mate," Katherine said pulling away from their long hug.
"Thanks." Kimberly sighed.
"Why don't you sit down Kim," Tanya said. There was no seat, so she sat on Zack's lap since he opened his arms for her. Kimberly looked around the massive hall.
"He's not here," Adam said. Kimberly turned to Adam.
"And how do you know what I am thinking Frog prince?"
"Because I know the Crane."
"He drove off after the kiss."
"He should have left way before that."
"He just…"
"Please Jase, no right now. Not during my reception." Katherine took Jason's hand and shook her head after squeezing it tight.
"It's a happy reception, and it should stay that way."
"Exactly Katherine. Well, I better get back to mingle. Get up and dance and drink guys. Please have fun for me."
"We will," Jason said in that leader tone. "Congratulation again lil sis." Kimberly hugged Jason. "I love you."
"I love you too." Kimberly kissed his cheek.
"Kimberly dear!" Kimberly looked to see her mother-in-law waving at her. Kimberly smiled.
After Kimberly finished her second dance with her father, she moved and danced a bit with Zack. Noel was dancing with his sister at this time. Everyone had settled down enough to enjoy their lovely dinner with toasts being made all around the room as Kimberly and Noel opened the microphone to anyone and everyone who wished to speak at this time. Noel spent most of his time kissing on Kimberly during dinner. Champagne was being pouring constantly, since Noel made sure no one's glass was half empty.
Once everyone had his or her full of the delicious meal, the dance floor was opened again for partying. Kimberly and Noel were leading the group; they were inseparable as they danced with anyone and everyone. Edward was getting a drink when he noticed Tommy. Tommy was in the back, trying to stay out of sight from anyone and everyone. He just couldn't sit in his car any longer. Edward immediately went over to Noel. Noel was talking with his father and uncle.
"He's back."
"What?!" Noel looked through the crowd. He saw Tommy.
"I'll kill him."
"Son, she is yours now. You have no need to fight him."
"I don't care if she is my wife now, I'm going to kill him."
Tommy walked outside pass the curtains, knowing he had been seen. He already caused one bad interruption. Tommy had only wanted to stay long enough to get his boys and get the hell as far away from Kimberly and Noel's happy little wedding reception. Kimberly was talking with Aisha, Katherine and Tanya when Aisha pointed to Tommy walking outside. Kimberly gasped. She stopped smiling and turned back to the girls.
"I should go…"
"Kim…" Aisha shook her head. "You don't want anyone more problems. Noel looks like he wants to punch someone, hasn't Tommy done enough for today."
"Yeah, but I better just go see… maybe I can convince him to just leave."
"Good luck," Katherine said. Kimberly smiled.
Tommy was looking up at the bright sky. It was such a cloudy and rainy morning. Those clouds blocked the sun. Tommy had a feeling that was Kimberly's mood this morning. She had to be confused, and sad. He still couldn't believe all he did, he said and Kimberly still got married. How the fate was not smiling on him today. Tommy grabbed the railing.
"What the hell are you doing back here?" Kimberly asked. Tommy didn't even turn around. "Tommy, did you hear me? What are you…"
"Doing back here? I heard you. And frankly I don't even know myself."
"Then go."
"My sons first."
"The reception has barely started and…"
"I don't give a damn about this reception!" Tommy said turning to face Kimberly. She somewhat took a hesitate step back. The angry was clear in his dark eyes. "I'm just here to wait and get my boys to go home."
Sometimes I feel so alone
I call your heart
But there's no one at home
Taking a toll on my pride
I'm reaching out
But there's no one inside
"Fine." Kimberly turned to go back inside. She stopped at the door. "I never wanted to hurt you."
"Mission not accomplished."
"What was I do Tommy?" Kimberly turned around. She had tears in her eyes. "You were always gone! You were never there for me! For our family!"
"You always knew where I was."
"Weeks would go by without seeing you. Months even! How can a marriage survive that?"
"With love."
"Love? You should know better than that, love is not always the solution. Of course there is love between us. I don't have to look far, just into our boys' eyes and I know I love you and will always love you."
You know
It doesn't feel right, when
I look in your eyes
I know love is blind, but
the heart doesn't lie
Tommy looked up and back into the reception. No one was watching them. The song pulled at him.
"May I have this dance?" Kimberly looked at Tommy's hand. Her eyes went as wide as saucers. Tommy took her hand.
"No." Kimberly went to step back, but Tommy tugged on her hand to keep her facing him.
"Why?"
"Because…because…" Kimberly looked back through the curtains and saw Noel watching them.
"It's just a dance Beautiful."
"Tommy, get out of here before Noel…"
"Just one dance." Tommy held his other hands out for her.
Noel's sisters immediately went over to Noel and calm their baby brother down.
"Baby brother calm down, they are just talking."
"He is never to talk to her again! And he will never touch her…" Serena put her arms to calm her brother. Noel pulled away but was held back by his sisters. Kimberly saw Noel watching them. .
"Tommy, get out of here now."
"Why?"
"Because … I can't dance with you! Not at my wedding!"
"It's just a dance. Everyone gets to dance with the bride, why not me?"
"Because you are making a fool of yourself again!"
"From just a dance."
"You know it's never just a dance with you!"
I'll ask one more time, maybe
this time you'll try
So tell me girl what's deep in your heart
"You're being ridiculous!"
"I'm just asking for one last thing."
"Fine." Kimberly went up to Tommy. She put her hand on his shoulder. "Out here, so no one has to stare."
"Fine."
[HOOK] Girl I care 'bout you
I'm there for you
So why don't you care for me
Like I care 'bout you (repeated)
Kimberly and Tommy were one of a few couples dancing with only a few more inside on the actual dance floor. Noel kept his eyes on Kimberly and Tommy dancing though. Kimberly was reluctant to get close to Tommy, knowing all Noel's family and friends would be judging her. Kimberly adverted her eyes from Tommy's stare. She knew he could hypnotize her with those brown dark eyes. Kimberly sighed. They were dancing like children, with a lot of distance between them. There was tension, both could feel it.
"Why are you doing this Tommy?"
"Why do you think?"
"You should have just left. Why didn't you just leave?"
"And miss this, Mrs. Thompson. Now dance like you are enjoying yourself. It is your wedding." Kimberly shook her head. Tommy pulled Kimberly closer. She was pressed against his body. Kimberly looked up at Tommy.
"Tommy…"
"It's just a dance, Beautiful." Tommy bent Kimberly slightly back, bringing her up slowly. Tommy smiled as her moans didn't go unheard.
I spend like all of my days, baby
Trying to cess out just how
things got this way
I thought that we were in love
But I swear right now I
don't know what you want
I make sure that I give you quality time
But lately I feel you're not home by design
But still I'm gonna try,
you're the love of my life
In hopes that you will open your heart
[ HOOK ]
Kimberly and Tommy slow danced to the song. Noel couldn't help but notice the look as Kimberly and Tommy danced together. Tommy held Kimberly and she tried to resist but she fit so perfectly against him. She fit to him more than anyone, including her current husband. Noel had to see that. Kimberly was torturing Noel.
"We can't do this, just stop it."
"It's just a dance Beautiful," Tommy repeated.
"Don't call me that!" Kimberly cried out, frustrated angry tears came to the brim of falling out her eyes.
"You will always be my Beautiful." Tommy touched Kim's cheek, wiping away a fallen tear.
"Tommy, stop it! This is my wedding reception with all of Noel's family and friends watching us now, you are embarrassing me!"
"How, it's just a dance?"
"This is my wedding day and you are ruin everything!"
"A wedding that should have never happened. Kimberly, you can't seriously want to spend the rest of your life with him."
"Noel loves me!"
"I love you!"
"Tommy, it's over!"
"It's never over!" Tommy pulled her back. "Not until you tell me you don't love me." Tommy and Kimberly continued their slow torture of a dance.
Sometimes I'm not sure
I'm all you've got
Sometimes I'm not sure if you love me or not
One thing I know
Girl I care for you
And the one thing that I want is
that you care for me too
[ HOOK 2 times ]
Kimberly shook her head.
"Tommy… you know I can't. You know I will never be able to tell you that."
"I know."
"But that doesn't change anything. I am married now. And the song is over with." Kimberly pushed the curtains aside and walked back inside, tears running down her face. Aisha immediately intercepted Kimberly, dragging her away from the crowd and straight to the bathroom. She knew the bride would need a moment to collect herself. Tommy came back inside. Tommy was left just sanding there worried about Kimberly. Noel nodded to his friends. They walked toward Tommy. Tommy held up his hands. Zeke ran over to his father after Tommy walked back outside. .
"Dad! Daddy, I want to go!"
"Zeke, you have to stay… for your mother."
"No! No, I want to go with you now."
"Go back inside. I'll be back to pick you up."
"After cake, promise me."
"Fine, after cake, I'll be back."
Tommy stayed true to his word and returned as Kimberly and Noel stood by their lavish cake. Once Kimberly returned from the bathroom after a good cry on Aisha's shoulder, she decided she would no longer shed another tear over the issue. She was married now to a wonderful man. Tommy and Kimberly were done. It was time to enjoy her wedding reception. Kimberly and Noel were inseparable, as they stood smiling and kissing often. Their cake was a lavish gown prompted Bommarito to recreate the embroidery in five tiers and a modern color scheme. Black-and-ivory chocolate fondant cake with scroll design, and sugar flowers and leaves. Noel and Kimberly shared several kisses before cutting their cake.
Tommy finally had enough of the newlyweds happy union and walks out as Kimberly was happily feeding Noel some of their cake. Zeke raced after his father. Zeke took his father's hand. Tommy went over to get his son from Kim's grandmother. Chuck was pushed beyond his bedtime and was sleeping against his grandmother's chest. Mrs. Dumas handed Tommy Chuck. Kimberly looked up to see her sons leaving with their father. She quickly excused herself, as the caterers took the cake to cut up for everyone to have a slice.
"Tommy…. Tommy… wait!" Tommy slowly turned around. "Can I not say goodbye to my boys before you take them away?"
"There was one time I didn't get that same chance." Kimberly stopped.
"Boys…" Chuck ran to his mother, but Zeke was a bit hesitant. Tommy slightly pushed his eldest son toward his mother. "You be good for your father. I'll be home in 2 weeks," Kimberly said to Zeke. "It will go by fast." Zeke hugged his mother before Kimberly picked up Chuck and Zeke up into a tight hug. Tim was taking Adela during Kimberly and Noel's honeymoon 2-week vacation to spend some much needed and required father-daughter time and since he was done with his tour there was nothing stopping him from being the active and always there father he is supposed to be. "I'm gonna miss my babies." Kimberly wrapped an arm around Zeke when he hugged his mother.
"We'll be fine," Zeke said sadly.
"I know." Kimberly kissed Zeke's forehead, though Chuck kept his arms around his mother's neck.
"Come on. You have a party to go back to." Tommy held his arms out for Chuck. Chuck somewhat was hesitant to leave his mother's arms. "Chuck come on."
"It's okay…" Kimberly tried to hand Charles over to Tommy, but he wouldn't. "It's okay baby." Finally, Charles went to Tommy. "Call me when you…"
"I will," Tommy said cutting her off. Kimberly knew he was mad. Tommy turned to leave.
"Not even a have a happy honeymoon?" Kimberly asked.
"You really want me to do something that I don't want to?" Tommy asked as he turned to face her.
"You've been doing what you want and what I don't want all day."
"Goodbye Kim." Tommy walked away. "Have a safe flight."
Song lyrics used: Frankie J- How To Deal, Michael Smith- Breathe, and Milestone- I Care About You
AN: I will apologize for the long delay, but at least you got a long chappy out of it. It was Twilight Stalking Week last week here in New York, everywhere Rob was, I was there.. I got to see him twice it was so heavenly and his voice... I'm marrying a Brit just for that. Thanks everybody for sticking with the story and please review, always love some feedback good or bad! Next installment: The Island Explosion...Oh...bad times ahead, will Tommy survive the big bang!