January 1919
"Are you packed, Elena?"
"Yes, uncle John. Can we stop at the cemetery on the way so I can say goodbye to them?"
"Of course, Elena," John reassures her, pulling her into a hug. Needing the affection, Elena hugs back. Something about leaving her home leaves Elena unsettled. Even though she only knew Damon for a few days, something inside of her believes that Damon will come back for her. The logical side of her believes she's being silly but her heart is screaming at her to stay. Suddenly it dawns on Elena that Damon is an American and that the odds of finding him again are better if they're both on the same continent. Shaken from her thoughts when she hears the sound of her bags being dragged to the awaiting vehicle, Elena looks at her uncle John who's motioning for her that it's time to go. While taking one last look around her home, Elena's eyes fill with tears. Her whole life was spent here with her parents. Being an only child, her parents doted on her. Swallowing down the lump in her throat, Elena looks up at her uncle, nods and follows him outside.
Because she is still underage, Elena has no choice but to move to America with Uncle John. The man is her mother's younger brother. Having wanted to strike out on his own and build his fortune, John believed in the promise of America. As soon as John received word of his sister and brother in laws deaths, he came for Elena. Because John was close to his sister, he feels an obligation to take his niece into his home. His wife Jenna readily agreed because then they would have live in help to watch their own children and to help out around the house. Even though Elena is grateful to have a place to go, she knows she will miss her home. The only memories she has of Damon happened right here. Sighing, Elena wipes her eyes and crawls into the awaiting vehicle. Rolling down the window, she sticks her head out, watching her little home till it's nothing more than a speck on the landscape.
1923
Since arriving in America, Elena has been busy learning the customs of her new home. Having taken the citizenship test as soon as she was legally an adult, Elena is proud to be an American. Elena still lives with her uncle John and aunt Jenna. Since arriving in the States with John, Elena's life has been a whirlwind. As soon as she arrived, aunt Jenna enrolled her in school so she'd get an education. With Jenna helping out at her uncle's business, Elena is often taxed with babysitting their little children. John Jr. is ten now, Elizabeth is six and Madelyn is four. Once Elena finished her schooling, Jenna showed her how to help out at their store. Elena often works the cash register on Saturdays. When the store is closed on Sundays, Elena is given that day to spend as she pleases. Often she goes to the park with a book and her journal. Sitting under the big Oak tree, Elena frequently thinks about those three American soldiers, especially the one who changed her whole life.
It's always Damon's face that fills her dreams and it's her thoughts of him that fill the pages of her journal. If only she knew if he survived the war, maybe she could move on. The son of one of John's friends is smitten with Elena but she doesn't want to even think about anyone else yet. Something deep inside of her clings to him and despite the odds, Elena can't let go of the feeling that perhaps she'll learn of his fate. And if Damon did survive, did he marry? Where is he now? Elena remembers when Damon told her that his home was in Wyoming but he didn't give her any specifics. As such, Elena hasn't even a smidgen of an idea as to where to start searching. She also knows that her uncle John and aunt Jenna won't let her go off by herself in search of a pipe dream. Not only that, Elena doesn't have the means to even look for him herself. And yet despite all of the negatives, her heart still longs for the soldier boy that she met once upon a time. Even though it was Damon who ensnared her heart, Elena hopes that his friends Brady and Enzo made it back to America safely too. Picking up her journal, Elena brushes the leaves off of her dress so she can walk back home. With her mind elsewhere, Elena walks right into her friend, Stefan.
"Elena, hi," Stefan laughs. Bending over, he picks up her journal and hands it back to her.
"I'm sorry, Stefan. I wasn't watching where I was going."
"It's okay. You didn't hurt me. Um, Elena, I was wondering if you would go out with me sometime?"
"Stefan..?"
"Don't say no right away, Elena. It's just a picture show. It doesn't have to be more than that."
"I don't know. You're my friend and I would hate to ruin that."
"Would you at least think about it?"
"Yes, I will think about it."
"Good, come, I'll walk you home," Stefan tells her, extending his elbow for her to latch onto. Shaking her head no, Elena wraps her journal in her arms and holds it against her chest while the two of them walk down the sidewalk. When they get to John's house, Elena tells Stefan goodbye and hurries into the house and straight to her room.
Elena does eventually agree to go to a picture show with Stefan. Even though the two of them have a good time together, when Stefan gets a little forward and tries to kiss her, Elena puts a stop to it right then and there. Much to her chagrin, Stefan leaves in a huff. After not speaking to her for a few days later, he finally comes to look for her, finding her under the big Oak tree as usual. Elena appreciates that Stefan apologizes to her. For his part, Stefan now too admits that the two of them are better suited to be friends than boyfriend and girlfriend. Elena does explain to him that her heart still beats for a young soldier that she only knew for a millisecond in the grand scheme of things. Yet somehow, Elena knows that providence will play a part if they're ever to find one another. It's been four long years since she came to America, four years since her parents died and four years since her heart was whole.
"Thank you, Elena," the man says when she hands him his package. Working the cash register in the store, Elena is very busy today. John is having a semi annual big sale and so the store is packed with customers. With her mind on her job, Elena doesn't notice when a brown haired man and a blonde woman enter the store. Needing a new ice box, Brady and Julie decide to walk into 'Gilbert's Furniture and Appliance' when Julie noticed the sale sign hanging in the window. Out of the corner of his eye, Brady notices the girl behind the cash register. Although he knows there's something familiar about her, he just can't seem to put it together. Even though he looks around with his wife, his mind is a whir as he tries to remember why the girl looks so familiar to him. It's only when he hears her speak, her German accent being the final piece of the puzzle. Dropping Julie's hand, Brady hurries over to the cash register to have a look at her face.
"Elena?" Brady blurts out, so loud that everyone nearby turns to stare at him. It takes Elena a few seconds but when she puts it together, her mouth drops wide open. Stepping out from behind the counter, Elena rushes over to him, throwing her arms around him.
"Mr. Brady? How are you here?" Elena starts to ask when a throat clearing sound takes her attention. "I'm sorry, uncle John. This is one of the soldiers that my father helped."
"Oh, it's nice to meet you, sir," John says, extending his hand to shake Brady's.
"I can't believe it," Brady mumbles, confusion written all over his face. Within a few seconds, Julie, his wife comes to stand beside him. "Elena, you're not going to believe this but Damon, his dad and me, we went to Metz to try to find you."
"What?"
"Yes, Damon has been so lost. My God, I can't believe you're here in the US and right here in Denver. It's a miracle," Brady says, his eyes darting back and forth between Elena and his wife. "Where are my manners? Elena, this is my wife, Julie. Julie, this is Elena. It was her family that took us in when Damon was badly hurt."
"It's very nice to meet you, Elena. Thank you for helping my husband and his friends," Julie says, taking Elena's hand, a bright smile on her face.
"I did nothing really. But I'm very happy to meet you too. Congratulations on the baby," Elena adds, looking at Julie's rounded belly.
"She's due any day now, Elena. I'm so glad we came in here today," Brady muses, his eyes darting from Julie to Elena.
"You have to get a hold of Damon," Julie adds, smiling widely at her husband. Nodding right along with her, a huge smile breaks out on Brady's face too.
"You said that you actually went to Europe to find me?"
"Yes we did. Damon has had a hard time of it. I keep contact with Damon's father. Although Damon is trying to put his life back together, it's been a struggle, at least that's what his father told me. You see, Elena, Damon thinks that it's his fault that the soldiers killed your parents."
"No, no, that's not what happened at all. My parents died from the flu pandemic. They passed a few weeks after you left."
"I'm sorry, Elena. Your parents, they were good people. I have to reach Damon," Brady adds, giving his wife's hand a squeeze.
"Elena, you need to get back to work now," Uncle John interrupts, giving her an 'I mean business' look. Nodding, she says goodbye to Brady and Julie then steps back behind the counter. For his part, Brady isn't about to leave before he knows how to reach her. He picks a candy bar off the shelf to purchase. When he gets out his wallet, Brady hands her his own business card that has his address on it. Picking up a piece of scratch paper, Elena hurriedly writes down Uncle John's address so they can keep in touch. "We'll go now so you can do your work. I'm going to try to get a hold of Damon and then I'll be in touch. It was so good to see you. And again, Elena, I'm very sorry about your parents, they were really good people."
"They were," Elena adds, feeling tears beginning to prick at her eyes, she grabs a tissue. And after giving Brady and Julie each a quick hug, Elena goes back to work, excited about all that's happened today and that the possibility of seeing Damon again is no longer just a dream.
"We need to go to the telegraph office," Brady tells Julie, almost giddy to know that Elena is alive. It's been nearly nine months since he went overseas with Damon and Mitch.
"What are you going to say to him?" Julie asks, taking her husband's hand as they walk down the block to the telegraph office.
"I don't think he'll believe me if I tell them that we found Elena. What if we tell him that we'd like him to be the Godfather to our little muffin?" Brady asks, squeezing Julie's hand. Their first baby is due in just a few days. Brady is so excited to be a father that he can hardly contain himself.
"That's a great idea, Brady. How much do you want to bet that he faints dead away when he sees her for the first time?"
"Yes, he probably will. I'm so excited for him, Julie. Damon was still just a kid when he got hurt. He fell for Elena hook, line and sinker."
"Maybe he'll get his happily ever after.. after all?" Julie muses, squeezing her husband's hand, letting go when Brady pulls open the door to the telegraph office.
"Can I help you?" the clerk asks, raising his eyes to the couple.
"I need to send a telegram to a friend in Wyoming."
"Sure, what would you like it to say?"
"Julie?"
"Damon, it's imperative that you come to Denver. Julie and I have big news that we want to share with you. Do bring Mitch along. Signed, Brady and Julie."
"Very good," Brady agrees, pulling out his wallet to pay the fee. After doing so, Brady takes Julie out to eat to celebrate the good news that today has brought.
"Welcome to Denver, Mitch," Brady says happily, shaking Mitch's hand. "Where's that son of yours?"
"He's getting our bags. The doctor told him that he needs to exercise that arm and shoulder. Damon still has a lot of problems with it though," Mitch states. Looking around, he is somewhat surprised by all of the hustle and bustle. Although Mitch doesn't understand why he's surprised, Denver is a big city but the cities in Europe that they were in last year were much more populace. The day is overcast and a threatening rain. Mitch worries because Damon's shoulder always gives him grief when the weather changes.
"It was a nasty wound. Believe me, Mitch, I worried more than once that Damon wouldn't make it," Brady admits, smiling when he sees Damon getting off the train. Closing the distance between them, Brady gives Damon a hug and takes the bags from them.
"It's good to see you, buddy," Damon admits. It's the first genuine smile that Brady has seen on his friend's face in a very long time.
"How are you, Damon, really?"
"I'm actually pretty good. I've been spending a lot of time with my friend, Caroline. She helps to keep my mind busy."
"I'm glad to hear that. If she's the reason that you're out of the funk you were in, I'd like to meet her."
"Next time, you and Julie can come to visit us in Wyoming."
"We'll do that."
"Where is Julie anyway?" Damon asks, looking around.
"That's the big surprise. I'm a father."
"Congratulations, Brady," Mitch adds, giving Brady's shoulder a squeeze.
"We're very happy. He's four weeks old already. His name is Joshua Damon."
"Brady?"
"We want you to be his Godfather."
"I'm overwhelmed. Thank you," Damon adds, another big smile erupting on his face for the second time today. Brady leads them to his car. They reach it just as the rain begins to fall. "That was close," Damon laughs. "Did you happen to get us some hotel reservations, Brady?" Mitch asks from the back seat as they drive through the busy city. Mitch sees the snowcapped Rocky Mountains in the distance. Although more majestic than the Bighorns which are near where he and Damon live, Mitch loves going hiking with his son. And he'll forever be grateful to Caroline for helping to get Damon out of his depression. Mitch knows that Damon still thinks of Elena. He sometimes notices how Damon just stares into nothingness, almost like he's in a trance or something. He doesn't have to ask Damon to kow that he's thinking about the girl who captures his heart.
"No, you're not staying in a hotel. You're staying with me and Julie."
"No, Brady. You have a new baby to take care of. We can't impose on you and Julie like that. Is there a place near your home that we could rent a room?"
"Honestly, you're not any trouble. We want you to stay with us. Besides, Damon has told me what a good cook you are, Mitch. I thought maybe you could give us a sample of it?"
"Of course, that's the least I can do," Mitch agrees, laughing.
Who's watching that dog you told me about?"
"His name is Brutus. Caroline is keeping him for me."
"It seems like she's a really good person, Damon. I'm glad you have her."
"Thanks, I'm glad that I have her too," Damon admits, staring at the mountains too. Lost in thought, Damon doesn't realize that they've stopped the car till he hears the car door open. Getting out, he looks around at Brady's yard. The grass is lush and green. Rain droplets are glistening off of the blades of grass. The lilac tree in the yard is full of fragrant blossoms.
"Dad, we should plant a couple of lilac trees. I love the smell."
"I do too, Damon. Your mother liked Weeping Willows. We should go to the plant nursery to have a look," Mitch adds, walking over to have a whiff from the tree's lush purple flowers. Even though Brady is thrilled to see Damon in better spirits, a little part of him is worried about springing Elena on him again. What if he's moved on with this girl Caroline? Of course, Damon refers to her as his friend, not his girlfriend. That has to mean something right? Brady thinks to himself. But he also knows that Damon would never forgive him if he kept the fact that she's alive and right here in Denver a secret.
"Come on, let's go inside. I want you to meet my son," Brady squeals, breaking out in a laugh. As soon as they're inside, Julie walks in to greet them with the little guy in her arms. "He's beautiful, Julie," Damon says, completely awed by his little god son. After giving Julie a peck on the cheek, Damon shakes his head excitedly when Julie asks him if he wants to hold the baby. "Maybe I should sit down first, you know with my shoulder and all."
"Sure, follow me," Julie says, using her head to motion for them to follow her. Looking around the house, Damon realizes that Brady must be doing really well in business. The hardwood floors are polished and glistening. Julie's china cabinet is filled. Crystal lighting fixtures hang from the ceiling.
"You have a beautiful home, Brady," Damon remarks, taking a seat on the sofa. Julie gently lays little Joshua in his arms. "Hi little fella," Damon whispers, running his index finger first along his pudgy little cheek and then he nearly squeals when Joshua grips it with his tiny fist. After getting the men some refreshments, Julie sits down beside Damon while Brady passes them out.
"So, we're having Joshua's christening Sunday. Afterwards we're having a picnic at the park to celebrate. How does that sound, Damon?"
"It sounds really nice. I just hope that the rain won't interrupt your plans."
"It's supposed to be sunny and warm. Brady has told me that you've bragged about your dad's fried chicken when you were in Europe. I was hoping we could talk Mitch into making some for us," Julie adds, a twinkle in her eyes when she looks at Mitch.
"How many people will be there, Julie?"
"The four of us, our parents and another family friend."
"Only if you'll give me a hand, Julie. That's the only way that you'll learn," Mitch teases, raising a brow at her.
"It would be my delight," she smiles, dropping her eyes to her baby in Damon's arms.
"He's so perfect, Julie. Thank you so much for asking me."
"You're welcome, Damon. And you know who else will be there?"
"No, who?"
"Enzo. He actually lives here too now. You're the only one that's missing, Damon."
"I love coming here to visit. It's great to get away but I could never leave Buffalo or the Bighorns nor my lake."
"Your lake?" Julie asks, looking at him curiously.
"It's not really mine. It borders dad's property. I do my best thinking there. Plus I have Brutus."
"We just want you to be happy, buddy," Brady adds, handing Damon a glass of ice tea. The group spend the rest of the afternoon and evening visiting. Brady takes Mitch and Damon to the little pub down the street for a glass of beer to help them sleep after their long train ride. By the time they get back to Brady's house, Julie and the baby are sleeping. Quietly they go up the stairs and to the room Brady showed them earlier. After slipping into his pajamas, Damon crawls under the covers, falling asleep almost immediately, his subconscious transporting him back to a time and a place where Elena is alive and the promise of tomorrow isn't just a dream.
"It was a lovely service, Brady," Damon mentions, holding little Joshua in his arms while sitting down on the picnic table. Fortunately for Brady and Julie the weather is beautiful today. The sun is glistening off of the snow-capped Rocky mountains. The sky is blue and with only a few wispy clouds. The gardens at the park are beautifully manicured. There are flowering bushes of all different colors. Flower are blooming and there's a beautiful fountain to honor America's war dead in the square. Mitch and Brady, along with his dad, Enzo and Brady's father in law move enough picnic tables together so the group can sit with each other.
"It really was," Brady agrees, sitting down beside Damon on the table. While Julie, her mother and Brady's mom get the food ready, Brady takes a seats beside his friend. Reaching up, he brushes his infant son's hair off of his forehead. The baby looks like Julie but his nose and his hair color are all Brady. When little Joshua starts to squirm and suck on his little fist, Damon motions for Brady to take him. Laughing, Brady takes the baby to Julie so she can feed him.
"That little guy seems to like you, Damon," Enzo teases.
"I like him a lot too," Damon starts to say when they're interrupted by Enzo's girlfriend, Lily. Enzo introduced her to everyone when they arrived earlier.
"Do you mind if I steal him away, Damon?"
"No, of course not, Lily." After Enzo and Lily walk off, Damon notices that Brady is visiting with his in laws and his parents, taking a seat beside them on that picnic table. Rather than sit here by himself, Damon stands up so he can move around a little bit. Smiling cause he can see that his dad is having a good time, Damon walks over to the flower beds and the fountain. Reaching it, he sees all kinds of coins shimmering at the bottom, the light of the sun reflecting off of them. Obviously people are using it for a wishing well. With his mind elsewhere, Damon doesn't notice a car drive up nor does he notice the young lady who gets out of the car.
Even though his back is turned to her, Elena recognizes Damon's form. Momentarily paralyzed, all Elena can do is stare. A startled gasp escapes her lips when Brady walks over to her. "You remember my uncle John?" Elena asks, finally turning her attention from Damon to Brady.
"Why yes. Hello, Mr. Gilbert. Thank you for allowing Elena to join us today."
"I expect her home at a presentable hour. Elena is my only sister's child and I feel a responsibility for her."
"I understand completely. And I promise we'll have her home at a decent time."
"Well, as long as there are other women here, I'll take my leave. I know that I don't need to mention it but mind your manners, Elena," Uncle John adds, raising an eyebrow at her.
"Yes, Uncle John. Thank you again."
"Goodbye then," he adds, giving Elena a nod before he walks back to his car and disappears down the block. Brady links her arm with his and then walks her over to join Julie, his eyes on Damon all the while. As soon as the two of them reach Julie, she hands the baby to her mother before pulling Elena into hug. Even though Elena is very fond of these people and will never be rude, her insides are fluttering manically. Julie seems to sense that Elena's nerves are alight.
"Are you ready, Elena?" she asks, pointing towards the fountain where Damon's back is still turned away from the group.
"I'm kind of scared," Elena admits, nervously swaying from one foot the other.
"I think the two of you have been apart for long enough, don't you?" Julie asks, giving Elena a big understanding smile.
"Yes," Elena agrees, still feeling like she's on pins and needles. Rather than say anything else, Julie gives her a big hug then offers Elena her hand. The two of them walk one step after the next till they get within about six feet of Damon. Putting her fingers to her lips, Julie signals Elena to keep quiet for a moment. When Elena nods, Julie walks over and stands beside Damon.
"It's pretty isn't it?"
"It is. Is it time to eat yet?" Damon asks, thinking that's why she came over to him.
"They're just finishing setting the food out. I have someone here who would like to say hello to you, Damon."
"Julie?!"
"Trust me..., Damon."
After staring at Julie for a long moment, Damon finally nods his acceptance. "Close your eyes and turn around," she tells him. Damon dutifully does as she asks. Seconds later, Julie motions for Elena to come closer. As soon as Elena is in position, Julie whispers in Damon's ear for him to open his eyes. Julie watches as Damon's eyes grow as wide as saucers, his mouth opens and closes, no sound coming out. Elena has tears falling down her cheeks and a big smile on her face. In the next millisecond, Damon snaps out of his stupor and wraps his arms around Elena, holding onto her for dear life. After several long moments, Damon releases her, his face still reflecting both confusion and awe. Other than the maturity he can see in her face and her eyes now, she really doesn't look much different than he remembers her. Her feminine curves are bosom and are a little more pronounced. In his dreams he imagined this day so many times and how she would look when he saw her again, the reality doesn't even begin to compare. Elena is truly a goddess, Damon muses to himself till finally he's able to utter a few words.
"How are you here? I... I thought you were dead?" Damon asks, shock and confusion playing on his face.
"After papa and mama died, my uncle John brought me to America."
"God, Elena," Damon blurts out. Unable to contain himself anymore, Damon cups her cheeks and pulls her lips to his. When Damon lets go, both his cheeks and Elena's heat up when they notice that everyone is staring at them. Swallowing thickly, Damon takes her hand, the two of them following Julie back to the group. Damon seeks out his father. Mitch just happens to look up and when he notices Damon, he smiles proudly because he can see how tall Damon looks in this moment. Certain that Damon is probably reeling inside not from grief this time but from shock and disbelief, Mitch can only watch as a plethora of different emotions wash over Damon's face. Although he knows that Damon can carry this weight on his own, Mitch wants to meet the girl who captured his son's heart.
As soon as Damon notices Mitch, he drops Elena's hand for a moment to hug his dad. Grateful for everything the man has done for him through all of it, Damon squeezes him tightly. And when he steps back, Damon introduces Elena to his hero. Mitch smiles and takes her hand in his after dropping a kiss to her cheek.
"I'm so thrilled that you're miraculously alive and here with us now. And I must thank you for helping to save my son's life," Mitch says to her sincerely. Damon can't help but smile at the way her cheeks begin to bloom pink when Mitch gives her a hug.
"I'm happy to meet you too, sir," Elena says shyly, her eyes darting between Damon and her feet and to Mitch and back to Damon again. After the three of them chat for awhile, the women announce that the food is ready so Damon and Elena each get a plate and then walk not too far away to sit on the grass under the shade of the big Oak tree to get reacquainted. Damon's family and friends understand all too well that the two of them need some private time to talk and to know each other again. Raising his head for a moment, Damon's eyes meet those of his father's. Mitch gives him a smile and nod of approval before looking away to visit with Brady and his dad, Frank.
"What happened, Elena? I mean, you said your uncle brought you here.. what happened to your parents? Did the German soldiers kill them?"
"No, Damon. When I got home, my parents had been bloodied up a little but they weren't badly injured. Some of the furniture was in disarray, the table was turned over and things like that. I was so scared to go in the house because of what I might find."
"But you did?"
"Yes, I had to know one way or another. My mama was just beginning to come around when I went inside. It wasn't long after that though... papa treated a boy with the flu. Mama died first and he died a week later. I got it too but I was lucky I guess."
"You're so brave, Elena. I'm so sorry about your parents, it's tragic.. what happened. Your family risked everything to help me and Brady and Enzo. I'm really sorry that you lost them."
"It wasn't your fault, Damon. Papa brought the flu home from treating one of our neighbors. It's no one's fault."
"I guess you're right. I'm really glad that your uncle John brought you here though."
"Me too. Brady told me that you went to Metz to find me?"
"Yes. And when I thought you were dead, I nearly lost myself. Um, my friend, Caroline has been a godsend. I want you to meet her, Elena. Caroline really helped to pull me out of the hole I was in."
"I am glad that you had such a friend," Elena says, laying her hand atop his momentarily. Without giving it any thought at all, Damon blurts out, "Marry me, Elena."
"Wha... what?"
"Marry me. I love you, Elena." Visibly stunned, Elena just stares at him. And then as if she was struck by lightning, Elena bobs her head up and down excitedly. Propriety be damned, Damon thinks then pulls her in for a languid kiss, broken apart only when Brady tells them to cool it.
In seemingly the blink of an eye, Brady comes over to Elena to tell her that he needs to take her back to uncle John's place. Nodding, Elena stands up, followed by Damon. Not wanting to leave her again, Brady invites him to go along with them. Mitch and the rest stay behind to clean up the food. Julie's parents offer to give Mitch and Julie a ride home the two of them don't have to worry about driving back to the park to pick them up.
As soon as they get to John's place, the man hurries outside and demands that Elena go inside the house to Jenna. Although Elena tries to introduce Damon to him, her uncle isn't interested in anything other than that she's late. After reassuring her that he'll let her introduce Damon another time, John practically throws Elena into the house. Although uncle John has been very good to her, Elena knows that when he gets in a mood, there's no changing his mind so she has no choice but to follow his lead. Hurrying up the porch stairs, Elena stops at the door. Turning around, Elena gives Damon a wide smile and a wave just before disappearing into the house.
As soon as Elena is no longer in sight, Brady and Damon get back into the car to go back to Brady's house. Deciding to make sure that no one is still at the park, Brady runs by there first before heading home. Damon sits in stunned silence for quite sometime till Brady breaks his concentration.
"Do you want to talk about it Damon? We could stop and get a cup of coffee if you want, Julie won't mind."
"Sure," Damon agrees. After Brady pulls into a diner's parking lot the two of them get out and walk inside. A waitress immediately pours them each a cup of coffee. After Brady tells her that they only want coffee, she smiles and leaves the two men alone.
"About your friend, Caroline.. um.. you're not with her are you?"
"No, no, not that way. We've been best friends since we were old enough to walk. I love her, she loves me too but it's.. I guess it's the kind of love a brother and sister feel for each other. She's always been someone that I could count on no matter what but we're not in love with each other. Why do you ask?"
"Just because of the way you were talking about her."
"I guess that I'm just grateful to her for helping me finally embrace life rather than let it pass me by," Damon adds, looking at Brady for a moment before turning to look out of the window. People are passing by, going into stores across the street. When a man pulls his toddler into his arms and hugs tight, Damon can't help but smile. Maybe someday he'll have that too. "How did you ever find her, Brady?"
"Julie and I were looking around in her uncle's store. She was behind the cash register. I knew that she looked familiar when we walked in but then I heard her voice and I knew it was Elena."
"You have to help me, Brady. I've never romanced a girl before. I went to war and came back a broken man. I've never really dated."
"You'll have to talk to her uncle. He's pretty steeped in the European culture yet. Although his wife is an American, he still believes in the traditions he grew up with."
"All right but how, I mean, do I go over there and ask to speak to him or do I go to his store? What am I supposed to do?" Damon asks, feeling frustrated and antsy. Picking up his coffee, he takes a big swallow. Moments later the waitress shows up to refill their cups. After thanking her, the two men sit silently for a few moments. Damon doesn't even begin to know where to start. In truth, her uncle seemed a little intimidating but to be fair, he's only had the one encounter with him and it was only from a distance. Damon doesn't even know if the man noticed him.
"You'll be fine, Damon. Just be yourself. Are you ready to go?"
"Yeah," Damon admits. After swallowing back the rest of his coffee, he drops a tip on the table for the waitress before following Brady out of the diner.
Nervous as hell, Damon walks alongside Brady up the steps to Elena's front door. Sucking in a breath, Damon raises his good arm to knock on the door. Moments later a young boy answers it. "Mama, some people are here," the kid yells. Although the boy says nothing, he does stare at Damon and Brady. Within a couple of seconds two little girls are standing beside the boy, staring too.
"Hi there, I'm Damon and this is my friend, Brady. We're here to see your mama and daddy," Damon says, smiling at the kids. When he hears footsteps, he looks up to see a woman.
"It's not polite to stare. Now run and play," the woman tells the children. "Hello Brady," the lady says, stepping aside so the two of them can go into the house. Damon is surprised by the understated elegance of the home. The cherry wood floors and the ornate lighting fixtures are not over the top but still beautiful. The davenport is a mahogany colored velveteen. Damon can't help but notice the beautiful fireplace. It's formed by rocks and is quite a stark contrast to the rest of the place but it somehow fits.
"And you must be Damon? I'm Jenna, John's wife. Elena hasn't stopped talking about you since she came to live with us. It's very nice to meet you."
"You too, Mrs. Gilbert. Thank you for having us."
"Please call me Jenna. I'm not as formal as my husband. Have a seat, I'll tell my husband and Elena that you're here," Jenna says then disappears down the hall. Standing up to show respect when Elena, followed by her aunt and uncle join Damon and Brady. Elena takes a seat beside Damon but keeps a respectable distance between them. Damon is so smitten with Elena that all he can do is stare till he hears a throat clearing.
"Damon, this is my husband, John Gilbert." Damon stands up again and offers his hand to John. Brady can't help but chuckle a little bit at how nervous Damon is. John shakes Damon's hand and then Brady's before telling the two men to sit back down. Nodding, Damon does as he's told because above all else, he wants to make a good impression. Damon can't help but notice the way John is eyeing him over.
"Elena tells me that your last name is Salvatore? Where do you live Damon and what do you do for a living?"
"I work on my father's ranch. He pays me a salary."
"Is your father here in Denver?"
"Yes, but we'll have to take the train back to Wyoming in a few days. We need to get back."
"How do you plan to court my niece if you're there and she's here?"
"I was hoping to stay here a few more days. I love your niece very much, Mr. Gilbert. It's always only been her. I would like to ask you for her hand in marriage," Damon says softly, his eyes boring in John Gilberts.
"You hardly know each other," the man states indignantly.
"Mr. Gilbert, I know that you care for your niece. I'll be eternally grateful to you for bringing her here when her parents died. If not for her father, I would be dead right now. Please sir, I love her."
"John, don't be so hard on them," Jenna adds, squeezing her husband's hand. Raising an eyebrow at his wife who gives him a knowing look, John's posture relaxes a little bit.
"What do you have to say about all of this, Elena?"
"I have loved Damon since the moment he looked at me with his blue eyes, uncle John. I want to be his wife. I am old enough, I'll be twenty one before the end of the year."
"Elena, Jenna and I care about your very much. You're all I have left of my family. Yes, you are old enough but above all else, your aunt and I want you to be happy. Are you sure this young man will do that?"
"Yes uncle John. I'll forever be grateful to you and aunt Jenna for helping me. I don't know where I'd be without you but my future is with Damon. Please?"
Before John has a moment to respond, little Madelyn runs into the room, followed soon after by John Jr. and Elizabeth. "Mommy told you to play outside," Jenna mentions, teasing her three children with a stern look before breaking into a smile.
"Who's he?" Madelyn asks, bouncing back and forth from one foot to the other.
"Damon is my boyfriend, Madelyn. Come and say hi," Elena tells her. The little girl walks cautiously over to Damon. Because he can't lift her given his bad shoulder, Elena lifts the little one onto his lap. The little girl starts to tell Damon all kinds of tall tales, Damon indulges her by listening intently. The children have broken the ice and everyone is already more comfortable. The group visits leaving Damon much more relaxed. With Brady busy talking to John Jr. and Elizabeth, he doesn't realize how late it is till Damon mentions that Julie wanted him to get some milk on the way home. The Gilbert family follow them outside. After Damon shakes John's hand and thanks him profusely, he walks up to Elena and pulls her into a sweet kiss. Damon wants nothing more than to kiss her like it's his last one on earth but because he doesn't want Elena's uncle to change his mind, Damon settles for a sweet peck on the lips. Damon softly whispers goodbye to her before crawling into the passenger seat of Brady's car. Seconds later Brady jumps in, turns on the ignition and pulls away from the curb, Damon's eyes never leaving Elena's till she disappears when Brady turns the corner.
Mitch left to go back to Wyoming yesterday. Damon has tickets to return at the end of the week. Because Brady and Julie have become family almost to him and his dad, Julie insisted that Damon could stay a few more days making it easier for him to spend time getting to know Elena. Even though they're already engaged, Julie took him aside and told him that there's so much that each of them still needs to learn about the other. Tonight is there first official date. With Denver being a big city, Damon knows without doubt that he'll get lost so Brady agreed to chauffer him and Elena for the evening. They're going out to eat and then to a picture show. Afterwards, Damon and Brady will take Elena home. John said in no uncertain terms that Elena was to be home by ten o'clock.
Dressed in a suit and tie, Damon walks down the stairs, smiling when he sees Julie walk to the foot of the stairs with a bouquet of flowers. "These are for you to give Elena," Julie says, handing them to Damon when he reaches her.
"Thank you, Julie. I didn't even think of that."
"Don't worry, Damon. I know you're anxious but just be yourself. You already got the girl so try to relax okay?"
"I will. I don't know how to thank you and Brady. Both of you have been so good to dad and me. I'll never be able to repay your kindness."
"Damon, stop. You're family. And besides, what kind of friends would we be if we didn't help you out here?" she teases, smiling widely at him. Leaning forward, Damon plants a kiss on her cheek. Just as he starts to pull away, Brady joins them. After raising a brow teasingly at Damon, Brady gives Julie a kiss too before telling Damon that it's time to go. Following him to the car, Damon jumps in, his right leg bouncing all the way to the Gilbert residence. Brady pulls alongside the curb and then stops the car so Damon can run in and get Elena. Taking a breath, Damon gets out, grabs the bouquet of flowers and walks up the steps. Just as he raises his hand to knock, Elizabeth pulls the door open.
"Hi there. Is Elena home?" Damon asks, smiling at the young girl. Nodding her head, she screams for Elena then gawks at the flowers in Damon's hands. "Those are pretty," she says, touching one of the petals. "Are they for Elena?"
"Yes, but I don't suppose she'd mind if you had one," Damon says, raising his finger to his lips. "I won't tell if you won't," he whispers, a smile on his face.
"Can I take one for Maddy to?" she whispers, her eyes alight with excitement. Damon nods and lets the girl take two flowers out of the bouquet. He notices Elena walking down the steps, catching the two conspirators in the act. Elena covers her mouth to stifle a laugh. Elena is pleased that her family seems to like Damon. Even though uncle John is stoic and not really emotional, she knows that her uncle likes him. When she reaches Damon, he drops a kiss to her cheek too.
"Don't forget to have her home at ten o'clock, young man," John reminds him when he steps into the foyer to see Elena out. Bobbing his head up and down, Damon shakes John's hand then sticks his elbow out for Elena to latch onto. The two of them walk hand in hand down the steps and into Brady's awaiting vehicle.
"Hello, Elena," Brady says, smiling at her through the rearview mirror.
"Hi, it's nice to see you," Elena adds, looking at Damon a little skeptically.
"Don't worry, Elena. I'm not going to intrude on your date. It's just that Denver is a big city and Damon doesn't know his way around. The diner is across the street from the movie theatre. Since your uncle wants you home by ten, I'll be in the parking lot by nine thirty to pick you up. Is that okay?"
"Yes, thanks so much," Damon and Elena reply at the same time. When they get to the restaurant, Brady pulls over to the curb so the two of them can jump out, waving goodbye when he leaves to go back home. With his hand pressed against her lower back, Damon and Elena walk into the diner. As soon as they're seated, the waitress gives them menus and coffee. Perusing them, Damon decides on the hot beef sandwich while Elena chooses the hot turkey sandwich. After ordering their food, Damon reaches over to take Elena's hand. "I'm really happy to be here with you tonight, Elena."
"I'm happy to be here with you too. Did your dad go back to your home?"
"Yes, I have to go back at the end of the week too but I promise I'll come back to you as soon as I can. I can't wait till we're married, Elena."
"Me neither. If I was still in Germany, I would likely be married and probably a mother by now too," Elena muses, dropping her eyes to their joined hands for a moment. Smiling when she raises her eyes, Elena is just so happy to be here in this moment with him. Never dreaming that they would find each other again, Elena thought Damon would only live on in her dreams. Before long, the waitress sets their food in front of them. Elena quietly says grace then daintily starts to eat. Damon digs in too, he loves roast beef and mashed potatoes. Deciding to forego dessert in favor of popcorn and soda at the theatre, Damon pays the bill then leads Elena outside and safely across the street. Although both would prefer to see Cecil B DeMille's silent movie, The Ten Commandments, they settle on 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' starring Lon Chaney. After waiting in line to purchase popcorn and sodas, Damon and Elena finally take their seats, settle in and enjoy the silent movie. Holding hands, Damon is struck by the electricity that flows between them. In fact, he remembers feeling it when he was just a boy back in the war when she and her parents took care of him.
When the movie is over, Damon and Elena wait till the theatre clears out before following the crowd outside. Looking around, Damon finally spots Brady's car. Taking Elena's hand, he leads her over to it, pulls open the door for her before crawling in himself.
"How was the picture?" Brady asks, backing up to pull onto the street to drive Elena home.
"It would be nice if they develop a way to hear sound while the picture plays but it was good," Elena says to him, smiling at Damon when he squeezes her hand.
"What did you see?"
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame. It was good," Damon adds, leaning in close to Elena to press a kiss to her cheek. Much sooner than he'd like, Brady pulls the car to a stop in front of Elena's home. Getting out of the car, Damon walks her to the front door, the porch light coming on immediately. Damon has to laugh at her uncle. But he is grateful that the man takes such precautions with his niece. It's obvious that he and his wife are very fond of Elena. "I guess it's time to say goodnight," Damon whispers.
"I don't want it to end," Elena adds, leaning into him so her head is pressed against his shoulder. Damon pulls back, cups her cheeks and pulls her lips to his in a smoldering kiss. Damon pulls back only when the porch light flashes on off quickly. Shaking his head, Damon adds, "I think he wants you to go into the house now." With the words barely out of his mouth, the door opens revealing John.
"Goodnight, Elena," Damon says softly, giving her one more sweet kiss. "Goodnight, Mr. Gilbert," he adds before trotting down the stairs and back to Brady's car, turning around for one last look before crawling into the vehicle.
Damon jumps when he hears the train whistle. Not knowing why he's jittery today, he shakes it off. Holding Elena's hand the two of them walk through the train depot so he's where he needs to be when it comes time for the train's departure. It's an overcast day but not too chilly outside. The locomotives are stopped for now till it's time to board. Damon notices the coal truck being restocked with a phloof of steam escaping the chimney.
"I wish you didn't have to go," Elena pouts, wrapping her arms around his good one. Pressing a kiss to the crown of her head, Damon tells her that he doesn't want to leave either. Brady is pushing little Joshua in his pram while Julie walks alongside him. When they reach the area of Damon's departure, he turns around to give Julie a hug and a kiss, drops one to Joshua's head and lastly pulls Brady into an embrace.
"Thank you, Brady, Julie you too, for helping to make my dreams come true."
"Any time, Damon," Brady adds, giving his friend's shoulder a squeeze. Just then the 'all aboard' is announced through a blow horn. "I guess this is it." Nodding, Elena reaches up to wipe the tears that are beginning to form.
"You're not getting rid of me that easily, Elena. I'll be back before you know it and the next time I see you, I'm going to place a ring on your finger. I love you, Elena." Brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, Damon closes the distance, joining his lips to hers. When the all aboard sounds again, Damon presses a kiss to the tip of her nose then walks away. As soon as he's on the top step, Damon stands there watching Elena and his friends till they're nothing but specks in the distance.
Wiping her tears, Elena walks beside Julie as the three of them make their way through the terminal and back to Brady's vehicle. Taking pity on the girl, Julie wraps her arm around Elena. "Don't cry. He'll be back here before you know it and we have much to plan before the wedding. You'll be too busy to shed any tears." Smiling, Elena nods.
"Have you thought about a dress, Elena?"
"I couldn't bring much to America with me but I did bring my mama's wedding dress. I thought that maybe I could wear it."
"I think that's a wonderful idea but you'll need to try it on to see if we need to have any alterations made."
"Yes, you're right. I never thought of that. Have you talked to your aunt and uncle about wedding plans?"
"Yes, Damon and I talked to them a little bit about it. Uncle John insists that we invite some of his clients but it's not really what i want but I don't know many people and you're the only ones that Damon knows here right?"
"There's also Enzo," Julie teases. "But yes, aside from him, I'm sure Brady and I are the only people that Damon knows here. Surely you have a few girlfriends that you'd like to invite? Maybe have Jenna be your maid of honor?"
"Yes, I would like you too, Julie. If not for you and Brady, there would be no Damon and Elena."
"I'd be honored, Elena. Now why don't we let Brady babysit so you and I can pick up Jenna and go shopping. You said your uncle is home today. Well, hopefully he'll watch the children so Jenna can come with us."
"I'd like that."
"You need shoes and we'll have to take the dress to a seamstress. We have so much to do between now and when Damon comes back," Julie tells her, a big smile on her face. Although Brady heard the entire conversation, he can only marvel at his wife's enthusiasm. Damon has no idea what he's getting himself into Brady thinks to himself. As soon as they get to the car, Julie takes the baby, Brady puts the carriage in the trunk. Once everyone is inside, he puts the car in gear and drives away with Elena and Julie still chattering away.
"Caroline, we're here," Damon says softly, giving her arm a little nudge.
"Wha.. what?" she blurts up, flying upright in her seat.
Laughing, Damon smiles at her. "The train just stopped. We're in Denver. My friends and Elena will be waiting for us."
"Oh, okay," she mumbles, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.
"Come on, sleepy head, let's go." Damon offers her his hand to help her up. As soon as the aisle clears, Damon and Caroline start to exit the train. Mitch and surprisingly, Caroline's mom, Liz came along too. Damon hasn't missed the way Mitch looks at her sometimes, making him wonder if maybe his dad is a little smitten with the woman. Liz was a very good friend to both of his parents. Her husband abandoned her and her daughter when Caroline was just an infant. Damon thinks the world of Liz and if she is someone that can make his father as happy as he is with Elena, he'll gladly give his blessing. But Mitch hasn't mentioned anything to him yet. It's Tuesday and the wedding is scheduled for Saturday afternoon. Not only that but their tickets to return to Wyoming are for late Saturday evening. There's much to do and very little time to do it this week. John has already shipped some of Elena's belongings to the house for which Damon is grateful. It's one less thing that the two of them will have to worry about.
Looking around, Damon sees that his dad and Liz are ahead of them. Ever the gentleman, Damon steps back to let Caroline step out into the aisle first. As soon as she starts to move, Damon follows behind. As soon as he steps off of the train, Damon searches the crowd for his friends. When he sees Brady, he starts waving his arm. Mitch and Liz are already standing beside him. With his hand against Caroline's back, he nudges her forward. Reaching Brady, Damon shakes his hand, pulling him into a light hug.
"Is Elena here?" Damon asks, looking all around.
"No, she's with Julie. They're at the final fitting for her dress."
"Oh, okay," Damon mumbles, a hint of disappointment in his voice.
"Julie will bring her over to the house as soon as they're through with the seamstress. Elena and Julie too, want everything to be perfect."
"I know, Brady. I just miss her. Oh gosh, where are my manners?... Brady, this is Caroline Forbes, Care this is my dear friend, Brady."
"It's very nice to meet you. Damon talks about you all the time," Caroline says, a huge smile on her face.
"Yes, the same is true about you. I'm happy to finally meet you," Brady greets her, shaking her hand vigorously. Once they have their luggage, Brady leads them to his car. Fortunately the vehicle is big enough carry all of them. Damon watches the mountains in the distance and the traffic go by as they make their way to Brady's home. Because of a street festival, traffic seems to be moving slowly or maybe it just feels that way because Damon is so anxious to see Elena again. It doesn't help that his belly is alight with nervous energy. When he feels Caroline's hand squeeze his shoulder, Damon looks back, giving her a tight smile.
"I've never been to this big of a city before. Have you mom?" Caroline asks, awed by the sights and sounds of Denver.
"No sweetheart, I haven't," Liz replies as much in awe of the place as her daughter. A good hour has passed before Brady finally pulls into his driveway, almost at the same time that Elena and Julie pull up. Practically leaping out of the car, Damon flies towards Elena, latching onto her lips for a heady kiss as soon as he reaches her. When they separate, Elena's cheeks bloom bright red when she notices how everyone is looking at her and Damon. Immediately, Damon takes Elena's hand and pulls her over to Caroline.
"This is Elena," Damon squeals, smiling from ear to ear.
"Hello, Elena. I'm Caroline, his best friend," Caroline laughs. The two women share a hug.
"I'm very happy to meet you, Caroline. Thank you for taking such good care of Damon when I couldn't, when he thought that I was dead."
"Of course," Caroline starts to say when Julie interrupts, introducing herself and hugging Care as well.
"Julie, Elena, this is Caroline's mother, Liz. Liz this is Brady's wife and this is Elena," Damon says, introducing the women. Ever the gracious hostess, Julie greets them kindly. After chatting for a few minutes, Julie leads the women into the house so they can get to know each other better. Mitch seeing how elated his son is walks up to Damon and puts an arm around his shoulder.
"I'm proud of you son. I'm so glad that you finally have everything that you've been searching for. And before we go inside to join everyone, I was thinking that maybe we could get some people together and build you and Elena a home on the property that borders the lake. It's your favorite place in the world. I know that it's a little soon to talk about kids but we'll have to put a fence up to keep them safe if we do decide to build near the lake."
"Dad? I.. I don't know what to say but thank you," Damon whispers, nearly speechless at his dad's generosity. Suddenly feeling overwhelmed, Damon gives his father a hug, breaking apart when Brady yells for them to come inside.
"We're coming," Mitch replies, gesturing with his outstretched arm for Damon to lead the way.
Elena is as nervous as she can be dressed in her mother's wedding dress. It's simple yet beautiful, at least it is in Elena's eyes. She hopes Damon will think the same. The gown is an ivory satin full-length dress with attached three-quarter-length net overlay that has applied seed beads in floral, leaf and line designs. The round neckline is edged with rhinestones and the bodice itself has stays and is slightly puffed in the front. Since it's summer time, Elena is glad that the dress has short sleeves, edged with beaded fringe.
"How are you, Elena?" Caroline asks, poking her head inside the bride's chambers.
"A little nervous," she whispers, looking at herself in the full length mirror.
"Your dress is beautiful. Your mother had excellent taste. I'll let you finish, I promised Damon that I would check up on you."
"Tell him that I'm fine."
"I will," Caroline starts to say, halting when Jenna and Julie step around to join Elena. "I'll be right back. I'm going to see if I can find my mother for a moment."
"Hurry, the ceremony starts in a half an hour, Caroline."
"Yes, mam," Caroline laughs, giving Julie a mock salute.
"Elena, your uncle wanted you to have this necklace. It was your mother's growing up. John didn't know that he had it till he found it amongst some of his things quite some time ago. He was waiting for the right time to give it to you and today is it," Jenna explains, handing her the sapphire and diamond necklace.
"Aunt Jenna, it's beautiful," Elena says, tears forming in her eyes.
"May I?" Jenna asks. When Elena nods, Julie steps over to help raise her hair so Jenna can close the clasp. It looks beautiful on Elena's swan like neck, the pendant laying in the hollow between her collar bones. Julie pours them each a glass of punch. Just as Elena sets the cup down, Caroline comes back and the music starts to play.
"This is it, Elena. Uncle John is waiting to escort you down the aisle." The three women take their places, slowly walking up the aisle to the tune of Pachelbel's canon playing on the church's organ. Elena smiles when uncle John holds out his arm but he halts her for a moment before they begin their march.
"I love you, Elena. I want more than anything for you to be happy. So please know this, if Damon doesn't make you happy or if you feel that you've made a mistake, you're always welcome to come back to us. I don't expect that to happen because Damon is a good man and he adores you but I just want you to know that you'll always have a home to come to. I'm very proud of you."
"Oh uncle John, I love you too. Thank you for taking me in when papa and mama died. I don't know what would've happened to me," Elena whispers, carefully wiping her eyes before giving her uncle a kiss on the cheek. When the organ music gets a little louder, John and Elena start walking. As soon as she sees Damon, a broad smile forms on her face, one that matches his own smile. Damon pinches himself because it's so hard to believe that this is real. By the time Damon takes his next breath, John is handing Elena off to him. After squeezing her hand, Damon and Elena face the celebrant. He speaks all the words but Damon and Elena can only focus on each other till he tells Elena to speak her vows.
"I, Elena, take you, Damon, for lawful husband, to have to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part," Elena says lovingly. Her eyes are glistening with happy tears but she can only stare at the man who is almost her husband.
"And Damon," the priest continues.
"I, Damon, take you, to be my lawful wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, until death do us part," Damon adds, squeezing Elena's hands lovingly.
After the rings are exchanged, the celebrant pronounces Damon and Elena husband and wife. Before the words' you may kiss the bride' are even out of his mouth, Damon captures Elena's lips lovingly. When Damon steps back, the wedding march starts to play. Damon takes her hand, hanging on for dear life when the two of them walk down the aisle for the first time as husband and wife.
It's late Saturday night. The wedding festivities are over for now. With Mitch, Caroline and Liz already on the train, Damon wanted to say goodbye to Brady and Enzo before joining them. Holding Elena's hand snugly but not painfully, Damon just can't get enough of the fact that this beautiful woman is now his wife. After Elena says goodbye to the two men, she lets go of Damon's hand to board the train. Turning to Brady, Damon gives him a hug, thanking him profusely for everything that he and Julie have done for them.
"Thank you so much, Brady. I don't know how my dad and I, Elena and I will ever be able to repay your kindness."
"Damon, you're like a little brother to me. And besides, your dad mentioned building a house for you on the property. He invited Julie and me to come to help once plans are finalized." Damon laughs, his father is always so many steps ahead of him.
"I look forward to seeing you soon then buddy. And you too, Enzo. Don't make yourself scarce," Damon adds, giving him a hug too.
"Your father invited me as well so you'll be seeing me," Enzo laughs. When the train starts to make noise like it's going to leave without him, Damon quickly shakes both their hands and then quickly gets on the train just as it starts to pull away from the station. Watching till his friends are no longer visible, Damon goes into the seating area to join his wife. Elena is staring out of the window even though it's dark outside. She happens to look up just as Damon drops into the seat beside her. Taking her hand in his, Damon raises it to his lips to press a kiss to it. Leaning in, Elena drops a kiss to Damon's lips, smiling when she pulls away.
"How does it feel to be Mrs. Salvatore?" Damon asks, a beaming smile on his face. "It's good, it's really good," Elena whispers, giving him one more kiss. Yawning, Elena closes her eyes and lays her head on Damon's shoulder, falling asleep soon after. Even though tonight is technically their wedding night, Damon wanted their first time together to be at home. His dad already told him that he was going to be spending the night with Liz and Caroline, allowing Damon and Elena to have their first night in the house to themselves. Excited but a little scared too, Damon closes his eyes, leans into Elena and drifts off to sleep, the whir of the train wheels lulling him to sleep.
It's nearly eight in the evening by the time the train finally pulls up at the depot in their home town. The train got held up for some repairs so they were stuck hanging out at a depot in a remote part of Colorado for several hours. When they get to the ranch, the group goes inside to have a cup of coffee. Mitch knows that Damon wants to be alone with Elena but he also wants to have a few words with his son before he leaves with Caroline and Liz. Going into the kitchen, Mitch starts a pot of coffee while Liz and Caroline visit with Elena. Caroline knows the house like the back of her hand so she gives Elena a tour, dropping her things off in Damon's room before continuing with the rest of the place. Damon wants to introduce her to Brutus tomorrow as well as take her to the lake. Since Caroline went along to Denver for the wedding, Brutus is staying with one of Mitch's friends. Damon can hardly wait to see his dog again. While Caroline, Elena and Liz are preoccupied with showing Elena the residence, Damon goes into the kitchen to join his dad.
"Smells good, dad."
"Damon, I know sex is a private subject but is there anything you have questions about?"
"Dad?!"
"I'm sure this will be Elena's first time and I suspect it will be yours too?"
"Well yeah, I wasn't exactly a social butterfly when I got home from the war."
"It's nothing to be ashamed of, Damon. You'll know what to do but be gentle. It can be painful for women the first time. Okay?"
Raising his eyes to his father's, Damon whispers thank you just as the women enter the kitchen. Once everyone is seated at the table, Damon helps his dad hand out cups of coffee before sitting down at the table, joining their guests. After they visit for about an hour, Liz yawns, whether real or feigned, Damon doesn't know. Fortunately Mitch takes the clue, excusing himself to get a clean pair of pajamas and some clothes for tomorrow. When he's finished, Damon and Elena follow them outside. Caroline gives Elena a big hug before turning to her friend. She gives him a kiss on the cheek and a hug.
"Thanks, Caroline for everything, for coming with me, holding my hand, your love and support."
"Damon, you know that I love you. I wouldn't have let you do this without me." After giving him a wink, she whispers good and crawls into the car. After Mitch tells Damon that he'll be home around noon tomorrow, he gets in the car, turns on the engine and drives away. Elena and Damon watch till the tail lights disappear. It's a beautiful night outside. The stars twinkling and the moon is full. Suddenly a coyote's howl breaks the quiet of the night. Shuddering, Elena curls into Damon's side.
"It's just a coyote. Come on, let's go inside," Damon says softly, taking her hand and leading her into the house. Knowing that he doesn't want to wait any longer to be with his wife, he keeps ahold of her hand and leads her up the stairs to his bedroom. Letting go only then, Damon pulls down the covers. Unable to restrain himself any longer, Damon pulls her flush against his chest, stealing a torrid kiss from her lips. Ever so gently, Damon lowers her onto the bed. Sucking in a deep breath, Damon lays beside her, capturing her lips once more.
"Damon," Elena utters breathlessly, her cheeks blooming red.
"It's my first time, Elena. I don't know what you like." Feeling anxious, Damon's eyes dart around, finally setting on her.
Sitting up, Elena scoots over till their bodies are touching. Reaching up, Elena places her hand on his cheek, forcing Damon to look at her. "I love you, Damon. I want this too."
"I love you so much, Elena. Thank you for waiting for me to find you."
"Damon, I never dreamed that I could love another person as much as I love you," Elena whispers, stealing a kiss from Damon. Standing up at the bedside, Damon takes Elena's hand to help her stand up. Turning her around, he unzips her dress and lowers it to the floor, letting it pool at her feet. Surprising Damon with a smirk, Elena clad only in her undergarments, unbuttons Damon's shirt, letting it drop from his shoulders. First pulling one sleeve off and then the other, Elena lets the shirt fall to the floor. Damon wastes no time in undoing the button on his pants. Kicking them off, Damon steps out of them and then captures his wife, giving her an ardent kiss. Needing a breath, Elena breaks the kiss and turns around so Damon can undo her corset for her. Exasperated by the time he finishes with the unending row of buttons, Damon navigates around her so he can face his wife. With her nod, Damon lowers the corset revealing her naked body to a man's eyes for the first time.
Although Elena feels powerful in the way Damon looks at her, she can't help but blush when she sees the way Damon's eyes are darkening. Deciding to be bold, Elena steps forward takes a hold of his underwear and pushes the garment down his legs. With them both standing naked and even though he knows his shoulder will protest, Damon picks Elena up. Grimacing, Damon grits his teeth till he lays her on the bed. Wanting his wife, Damon crawls in after her, laying beside Elena on the bed. When their eyes meet, Damon sees her subtle nod. Slowly he lowers his hands to her breasts, kneading them and stroking her nipples till a stream of steady moans pour from Elena's lips. Wanting to taste her, Damon captures one of her nipples in his mouth while tweaking the other with his thumb and forefinger. In no time, Elena's mouth is hanging open and her eyes are closed.
"Does that feel good?"
"Yes, yes, Damon. Don't stop, please."
Smiling, Damon releases one breast and latches on the other. Wanting to move south, Damon gently starts to probe her already wet lady parts. Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Damon starts kissing his way down her body. Using his mouth and tongue and fingers, Damon pleasures her as best as he can. Truth be told, not only did his dad give him a sex talk, Brady did too and told him that women like having a man place his mouth down there.
"Uh.. uh...," Elena moans aloud at the same time Damon begins to feel her body start to unravel. Dropping one final kiss to the apex of her thighs, Damon raises up and pulls her into his arms, holding her close till her body stops trembling. When Elena speaks again, Damon looks at her. Noticing that her eyes are glazed over with desire, Damon plants another smoldering kiss to her luscious lips. When they break apart, Elena whispers that she's ready and pulls Damon on top of her.
"I love you Elena," Damon whispers reverently. With pleasure still visible on her face, Damon climbs over her, laying himself between her legs. Taking a deep breath, Damon takes his cock in hand and positions himself at his wife's entrance. Closing his eyes and dropping his head against hers, he swallows thickly then pushes inside when she raises her hips to help guide him inside of her. The feeling of being enveloped like this is already more pleasurable than anything Damon has ever felt. Damon can't even begin to describe how it feels to be inside of his wife. Having Elena beneath him and in his bed makes him feel so much love for Elena. So much in fact that he struggles to even come up with a word to describe all these things he's feeling right now. When Damon feels her body flinch lightly, he stops and lowers his lips to her neck and to her cheeks and to that spot that's behind her ear that seems to drive women insane. That's what he's been told anyway.
Seeing the beginnings of tears at the corners of her eyes, Damon kisses the moisture away while brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. When their eyes meet for a moment, Elena smiles, lifting her head slightly to kiss each corner of his mouth.
"I'm okay, Damon. You can move now."
Nodding, Damon moans aloud when he feels her hands grab the curve of his ass, pulling him in even deeper. In no time at all, Damon feels himself losing his rhythm. Surging even deeper inside of her, Damon rocks back and forth, pulling in and out of her all the while focusing on her pleasure. Pulling out, Damon rolls Elena onto her side, lifts her left leg over his hip to open her up and then he sinks back inside of her. Groaning loudly, Damon is completely marveled by his beautiful wife. A light sheen of sweat covers both of their bodies as they continue their lovemaking. Elena pushes back, matching every forward thrust of his, letting him go deeper with each stroke.
Maybe it's because it's the first time for both of them but suddenly, Damon feels himself soaring at the same time that he feels his release coating her inner walls. In this moment, the only thing Damon notices is the blinding white flashes and the sensation so pleasurable that there are no words to describe what he's feeling right now. When Damon opens his eyes, he fixates them on Elena, enraptured when he sees the same things wash over her beautiful face. Her mouth is slightly agape and in an o shape, her head is thrown back and her body is jerking uncontrollably.
After falling back to earth with a thud, Damon sucks in a puff of air and then rolls off to the side, pulling out of his wife. Suddenly Damon feels extremely fatigued given their long train trip and their love making, he wraps Elena in his arms, presses a kiss to the back of her head and closes his eyes.
"Damon, that was...," Elena mumbles almost incoherently. Damon doesn't know if she's awake or asleep but helps her to reposition so her face is now resting against his chest. Noticing Elena yawn, he whispers, "You're tired."
Not looking up or saying anything, Damon smiles when he notices her nod. Before long her breathing evens out signaling that his lovely bride is asleep. Exhausted himself, Damon closes his eyes, the edges blur and pull him into slumber.
When Damon wakes up the next morning, he can feel that Elena is still curled up against him. Dropping his eyes, Damon lights up when he sees her smiling up at him. Using her finger, Elena starts to draw small circles on his bare flesh. Damon doesn't have much for chest hair which doesn't bother Elena in the least. Damon presses a kiss to the top of her head, rolls them over and then snatches her lips in a toe curling kiss.
"I like saying good morning like that," Elena gushes, a pretty shade of pink beginning to color her cheeks.
"Are you ready to get up? I can make some breakfast and then we can pick up Brutus. I can't wait for you to meet him."
"You love your pet?"
"I do. He really helped me get over my melancholy when I thought that you were dead. Caroline was a godsend too."
"It's good that you had them. Let's get going then, I want to see that lake you talk about all the time too."
"Yes, Brutus loves frolicking in the water," Damon admits, rolling off of Elena and sitting up at the bedside. Stark naked, Damon wiggles his ass when he notices that Elena's heat to a bright red color when she casts her eyes on him. "Later sweetheart," Damon teases, winking at her. After putting on his robe, Damon leaves the room to grab his dad's bathrobe for her to put on. Since Elena hasn't had any time to unpack yet, her garments are still in trunks ready to be steamed and put away. " Standing up, Damon can't help but ogle the unparalleled exquisiteness of his bride. Elena takes the robe from his hand, slipping it on herself. Damon drops a kiss to the tip of her nose and pulls her into his chest, hugging her close for a moment.
"The bathroom is down the hall if you want to wash up a little bit. I'll go downstairs to make us some breakfast and then we can go. Oh, some of your things that your uncle shipped are hanging in my closet. At least you'll have something to wear that isn't wrinkled." Damon drops one more peck to her lips before disappearing out of the room to go to the kitchen. As soon as they finish their breakfast, Damon takes Elena by the hand, leading her outside. Rather than going after Brutus immediately, Damon takes the time to give Elena a tour of their property. When they walk into the barn, Damon waggles his brows and wraps her in his arms before pointing out the hay loft whispering in her ear, 'someday'. And although Elena blushes again, Damon can also see a hint of desire in her eyes. After they finish the tour, they hop into Liz's pickup truck to go after Brutus and then to the lake.
As soon as they pull up in Tobias Fell's yard, Brutus gallops over to Damon, nearly knocking him over. With a smile that fills his whole face, Damon plays with his dog. Once Brutus finally settles down, Damon looks up just as Tobias is walking over towards them.
"Someone is happy to see you," Tobias laughs, shaking his head. "That dog is a trip."
"Thank you so much for keeping him, Tobias. I'd like you to meet my wife, Elena. Elena, this is Tobias Fell. He's a good friend of my dad's."
"Hello, Elena, it's nice to meet you," he says, shaking her hand.
"I'm happy to meet you too," Elena says, smiling widely at the man. Moments later the man's wife steps outside and invites Damon and Elena to come in for a cup of coffee and a piece of pie. The couple stay and visit for about and hour and then after thanking the Fell's profusely, Damon leashes Brutus and puts him in the back of the truck. As Damon drives away, he waves at Tobias and Meredith once more before pulling onto the gravel road that leads to the lake. Elena stares out of the window, letting the breeze blow through her hair and enjoying the scenery. It's so different here than in the city, Elena finds herself loving the wide open spaces that country living provides. Elena can't help but imagine how wonderful it'll be to raise children here. With Elena daydreaming, she doesn't realize that they've arrived till the vehicle stops. Damon gets out first to open the back end of the pickup so Brutus can jump out. Immediately the dog makes a mad dash for the water. Damon starts laughing when he frolics in the water. Elena bursts out laughing too when Brutus runs to Damon and shakes his coat out on him.
Taking Elena by the hand, Damon leads Elena down the path that encircles the lake. Brutus trots ahead of the couple, occasionally veering off the path to chase a squirrel or other small critter. When they get to one spot that has an outcropping of rocks that they can look down on the lake, Damon sits down. Tugging on her hand, Elena sits down beside her husband. The rock is warm, heated by the sun and the sky is a beautiful blue hue with only some wispy clouds scattered here and there. The water is calm and blue and Elena finds herself getting lost in the serenity of this place. Her reverie is broken when a fish jumps, breaking the tranquility of the water's surface.
"It's so beautiful here, Damon. How did you find this spot?"
"Caroline and I found it actually. It was a long time ago though. I've always found the lake and this spot especially a good place to think."
"I can see why," Elena muses, her eyes still taking in the splendor of this spot. Damon picks up her hand, presses a kiss to it and then cradles it in his own. When their eyes meet, Damon feels likes he's drowning in their depths. His heart is filled with so much love and happiness, more so than he ever imagined for himself.
"Thank you for taking a chance on me, Elena. I mean, we've maybe spent a month's time together at best and yet here we are, husband and wife. Thank you for loving me and having faith in us and in the future that I hope will be ours."
"I could say the same thing, Damon. I was just a kid when we met. I never dreamed that you'd come back for me."
"How could I not?" Damon mentions. After giving her hand a squeeze, Damon gazes out over the water, smiling when more fish breach the surface. When he hears a slap, Damon drops his eyes to back to Elena's.
"Mosquitos. Come, I want to show you something else." Offering her his hand, Damon pulls her up when she latches on. "Brutus," Damon yells before putting a couple of fingers in his mouth to whistle. Soon the soaking wet dog comes up behind them. When Brutus starts to shake himself out again, Elena and Damon step back but still feel the droplets of water land on their skin. Taking her hand, Damon leads her to another serene area. The swath of land has a grove of pine trees near the clearing and the lake is only a few hundred yards away.
"Do you like it?" Damon asks, walking along the edge of the tree line. The curtain of the trees forms a nice patch of shade.
"Um, yeah, it's pretty here too," Elena remarks, staring at the property that she now calls home.
"This is where we're going to build our house."
"What?!"
"Yep, dad mentioned it to me. It's perfect don't you think? We can put a picket fence around it so our children will have a safe place to play."
"Damon, how can we ever thank him?"
"I don't begin to know, Elena," Damon muses, pulling a sprig of tall grass to chew on. Damon walks around the parcel of land, pointing out where he imagines the bedrooms would go and where the kitchen and bathroom would be. Giddy with excitement herself, Elena launches herself at Damon, knocking the both of them onto the grass. Laughing wildly, Elena stops when she notices that her husband's eyes are darkening. Throwing her hair over her shoulder, Elena lowers her face joining their lips, mouths and tongues in a mind numbing kiss. As soon as she pulls away, Brutus makes his presence known, licking Damon's face with his big wet tongue. Elena laughs hysterically until Brutus decides to lick her too. Rolling onto her back in the grass, the dog is relentless. Damon is chortling so hard that his belly hurts.
"Damon, help me," Elena squeals, covering up her face.
"Okay, Brutus, that's enough," Damon laughs, putting the leash back on him. After helping Elena up, the newlyweds share another kiss then walk hand in hand back to the pickup. As soon as Elena is safely inside, Damon opens the rear gate to let Brutus jump in. Once it's closed, Damon ruffles his fur a bit before climbing behind the wheel. Offering Elena his hand, Damon gives it a squeeze, turns on the ignition and drives back to the ranch. Damon rolls down the window to let the breeze blow through his hair. And in moments like this when everything is beautiful, Damon gives himself a pinch because sometimes he can't believe this is real and that she's hear with him now. Damon ventures a glance at Elena who is staring outside too. As if knowing that Damon is watching her, she turns to face him, a big smile on her face. And in that moment, Damon and Elena know that the future is theirs for the making.
It's NOT over yet. One more chapter to post. Although not as long as this one, part 4 is still over 5000 words.
I hope 15,000+ words is worth a review :)
Massive thanks to Eva for everything you do. Your mind is an amazing thing, my friend as is your big heart.
Huge thanks to all of you as well. Thank you so much for your support. Without it, I wouldn't be here.
Chapter title: 'I Just Want to be Your Everything' by Andy Gibb
'Nothing Left to Fear' and 'Turn the Page' are still in progress. I posted the first chapter of 'The Dating Game' sequel yesterday. It's called 'The Game of Life'.
I did post a picture of Elena's wedding dress on my scarlett2112 facebook page.
Please remember to click the review button.
Have a safe and wonderful day.