I don't own Glee or its original characters.
Chapter 9
It was the Tuesday evening of the week of their impending wedding.
Rachel lay in her bed, unable to sleep. Next to her she watched Quinn's peaceful face while the blonde still resided in slumber. It had taken Quinn quite some time to fall asleep, but she had finally managed to find some rest after the hectic day with final preparations and show rehearsals.
Rachel still had too many thoughts chasing around her head to find some sleep. Part of her felt like she was living in a dream. She had found love, had wonderful friends, a great supportive family and had managed to get her career back on track.
They had planned a beautiful ceremony the following Saturday and she was really looking forward to the celebration. She was happy that so many people she loved would come to share this special day with them. Old friends and new ones, friends from school and work. Still, Rachel was a little bit apprehensive regarding the large crowd that would surround her. Even though most of her close friends and relatives had learned or were still learning to sign, not all of them took the pains or felt comfortable with it. Large groups were usually exhausting for her, especially if everyone wanted to talk with you and share some time.
Rachel also knew that Kurt had planned for the music and, she was also sure, that their Glee friends would perform the one or other song. It would not be easy to just watch them and not being able to join in.
Dancing without music would also be something she was not really looking forward to. She knew that everyone expected a dance of the newlyweds. She had danced on a couple of occasions, on her own and with Quinn after the accident, but it was still a concept that she had to get used to. It was easy if she could at least feel the beat or know which song was playing.
So far, no one had directly asked her about the dance at the reception. Everyone tiptoed around the topic, not sure if it was ok to ask, which was weird, Rachel thought.
Rachel and Quinn had established a common practice to openly discuss things, and when family and other friends noticed how much easier that made dealing with Rachel's deafness, they adopted the method as well. Rachel's dads had even started to make fun at her expense. Once they were discussing something were the brunette had a totally different opinion than her dads.
"That's falling on deaf ears," Hiram had thrown into the round with a lopsided grin, half expecting an angry or hurt rebuke. But Rachel had only snorted and then laughed out loud. She understood that her fathers had come a long way and making that little – even though somewhat lame – joke showed her that they had really started to accept the situation and tried to make the best of it.
So why was everyone shy about asking her about the dance? Could she still dance? At the Perfect Beat Club that they had visited twice more since her birthday a year and a half years ago, it was different. The name of the club said it all. There was no way one could not feel the beat and start moving with it. But the volume was cranked up all the way there, not something they could do at their wedding. Besides, the waltz wasn't usually accompanied by such a heavy beat.
Not being able to go back to sleep, Rachel got up and wandered into the living room.
Quinn felt some movement besides her and still half asleep noticed that Rachel got up, hoping, her girlfriend would soon join her back in bed. But Rachel left the bedroom and after a while, the blonde heard movements coming from the apartment. Maybe Rachel was preparing some tea. She seemed to have a hard time falling asleep lately, Quinn had noticed.
She listened again, ready to drift back to sleep.
It didn't sound like Rachel was preparing some tea. Quinn couldn't quite picture what her soon to be wife was doing so she curiously got up and moved closer to the source of the sound. She stopped in the hallway when she got a glimpse of the brunette. Rachel didn't notice her standing there. She seemed caught in her own world, slowly and gracefully moving to some inner rhythm, an inner melody.
Quinn licked her lips as she could not tear her eyes away from that sight. Rachel was wearing her pajama pants with thin light blue and white stripes and a white tank top, which set off her darker skin and chocolate brown hair as it flowed freely around her shoulders with her movements.
Her bare feet lightly stepped across the wooden floor, causing a little creak here and there. She moved her arms in a wide arch over her head, turning, lifting one leg with pointed toes horizontally upwards. Then she relaxed and pirouetted slowly. Finding a perfect stance again, she then arched her upper body a bit, lifted her right leg behind her, holding on to the ankle of her now bent leg. Calmly she bent a little forward, holding herself for a moment in perfect balance, looking so incredibly sexy in that position that Quinn had a hard time controlling her breathing.
Rachel let go of her foot, slowly lowered her leg, pirouetted around herself again to bend down with stretched legs, her forehead touching her knees. Slowly she straightened her posture again, letting her arms glide along her body until she bent backwards and lifted her hands above her head.
Quinn followed the flowing movements with her eyes, shamelessly spying on her girlfriend. She watched her move quickly across the expanse of the living room with graceful dance moves and step patterns. The blonde wondered if Rachel heard any music in her mind and if she did, what it was because she felt incredibly turned on by the show of shiny skin and lean muscles.
Rachel had lost some weight in the time after her accident, but started to get back in shape when having taken up some of her training again. Also, she had immensely improved on her balance which in the beginning after the accident had not been really there. Due to the destruction of the small bones in her inner ear, among others, she had felt quite nauseated and dizzy. After a few months though, the dizzy spells had vanished and Rachel had regained her balance and lately even more so, judging by the figures Quinn witnessed her performing.
Pirouetting again twice she then ended in a little jump, spreading her legs wide and almost horizontally one to the front, one to the back. Surprisingly softly she landed on her two feet, wobbling just slightly and ended the dance routine in a small curtsey bow. She let her upper body bend down again, her hands touching the floor and sighed.
"Ugh, I'm out of shape." Looking through her slightly open legs she spotted her audience standing in the background. She jerked up and then smiled a little embarrassed at her girlfriend.
Quinn bowed and reached a hand out to Rachel.
May I have this dance? She raised an eyebrow.
Rachel frowned for a moment. Then slowly stretched out her arm, taking the offered hand.
Before Quinn placed her arm around the other woman's waist, she signed: Remember 'Open Arms' by Journey?
Rachel nodded and laughed. "How could I ever forget a Journey song?"
Quinn mouthed one, two, three and took the first step, gliding across the living room with her girlfriend in her arms, quietly singing the song.
At first the brunette was a bit tense, but Quinn's secure steps and her arms around her quickly dissolved the tension and Rachel let herself be led through the dance. She felt comfortable in Quinn's arms and the blonde mouthed some of the songs first words so Rachel could tune into the rhythm the blonde used to lead her.
After a few moments Rachel felt comfortable enough to have logged on to the movements, that she leaned her head against Quinn's shoulder and sighed contently.
"I'm sorry, I didn't want to wake you," she whispered and felt Quinn kiss her forehead. Having her arms still around Rachel, she wasn't able to answer right away.
The blonde slowed their movements after a while and then kissed Rachel again.
I wasn't completely asleep yet and I felt you getting up again. Too many thoughts in your head? The blonde asked with her hands.
Rachel nodded, "Yes. I'm a little worried how our change of plans is going to be received by our friends and family."
Quinn gave her and understanding half smile. I know. I had the same thoughts. But you know what? We do this for us. If we feel that this is how we truly want to share this most important moment of our lives, them this is ok. We'll be ok. And so will the rest of the family.
"You're right. I'm happy that we took that decision. It feels right. I want to focus on you during that moment and not having to worry about everyone else." She waved slightly at her ears during the last part of the sentence.
Quinn understood. A wedding was always a beautiful moment and family and friends would have certain reactions. Some might cry, some might laugh and it would be hard for Rachel to gauge the whole atmosphere while concentrating on Quinn or someone else signing.
"You really think they'll understand?" Rachel frowned and looked up into the hazel eyes.
Quinn smiled. I'm sure they will, once we explain it to them. She kissed the full lips.
Rachel sighed. "Your word in God's ear. Come on, let's go back to bed." A small mischievous grin curled her lips upward. "Maybe we can practice a little for the wedding night?"
"Mmmhmmmm," Quinn purred, nipping at Rachel's earlobe. Maybe we can, she then formed with her hands, letting herself being pulled back into the bedroom.
Two days later, both young women plus Santana found themselves a little north of the city on the private estate of one of Santana's wealthier customers. The estate also featured a small private chapel. When Santana had told Jake some weeks ago that friends were looking for a location to get married, he had been willing to offer the small church for the ceremony. As he was always traveling a lot and hardly ever at home, he had started to rent out the chapel plus the small guest house next to it for family celebrations. Luckily it was free for the evening they had in mind so it was perfectly suitable for Quinn's and Rachel's plan.
Even though it was not an actual church wedding, the official from the City Clerk's Office in New York had agreed to hold the formal ceremony at this location. The only person who knew the plan was Santana.
Quinn and Rachel had told her and she immediately agreed to support them. They needed a witness and also someone who could help interpret during the ceremony.
The small building was placed in a park like estate, far enough away from the main house and separated from it by beautiful old oak trees. The small guesthouse, made of yellow sandstone, like the chapel, was close by, but also hidden a bit from view by blooming rhododendrons. It was a beautiful layout and would ensure perfect privacy for them.
The sun was setting and dusk fell when the three women arrived at the gate of the estate. Slowly the limousine crept up the winding driveway, past some old and immense oak trees. Then it drop them at the beginning of a short stone path that would bring them towards the chapel.
Santana had arranged for lanterns with candles to be placed left and right of the path to the small building.
The sky projected a display of colors, cascading from darker blue to baby blue into yellow, orange and fire red where the sun just set below the horizon. The air smelled of flowers and a light breeze brushed the women's skin gently.
Rachel took a deep breath and soaked in the beauty of the moment. A smile curved her lips and she cupped Quinn's chin gently in one hand.
"This is so perfect," she whispered against her lover's lips.
Quinn kissed her back and nodded. "Yes it is," she answered simply, knowing Rachel could read the short sentence from her lips.
Santana stood behind them, taking a picture of them with the backdrop of the church and the candles. She knew that this would turn out beautifully, with the two women painted in dark silhouette against the lit background. She took another beautiful shot from the side where their faces were lit by the glowing candles.
Rachel and Quinn had inspected the place before; they wanted to make sure the location for the ceremony would be perfect and once they had seen it, they knew that the Latina had not exaggerated when she described it to them. Even in broad daylight it was a wonderful place, but Santana had outdone herself with the simple but very effective decoration for this special night. It was perfect. Just like they wanted. Nothing overrated and fancy, only natural beauty and nothing else to disturb them.
Another small breeze picked up the hem of their dresses and Quinn heard the small rustling sound the fabric made as it rubbed against their legs. They had chosen their outfits together, not wanting to risk a clash of colors. Quinn's dress was lavender silk, with small straps on her shoulders, tailored at the waist, falling in a flowing motion below her knees. On her bust were small Swarovski gems embroidered in a delicate, but unobtrusive pattern. The light of the candles was reflected by them and it gave Quinn an air as if her inside was glowing. Which expressed how she felt at that moment when she looked at Rachel.
Rachel's dress was similarly cut, but of a darker color, reaching a deep and dark purple. Her dress had a neck halter that elegantly would around her neck in a slender, standing collar fashion.
The satin of her dress also shimmered warmly in the beautiful light. Quinn had asked Rachel to wear her hair down and just a small clasp held a few strands back on the right side. The blonde's hair was done up in a classic roll at the side that ended in a bun at the nape of her neck. Small pearl earrings adorned her ears, while Rachel wore two small diamond earrings that had belonged to her grandmother.
Santana reached behind her into the car and retrieved two small bouquets of flowers which she handed her friends.
"Thank you Santana," Rachel hugged her, smiling. "This means a lot to us. Thank you for helping us with this. It's really beautiful."
"Yes, Santana," Quinn added, giving a small wave with her hand, taking in their whole surroundings, "I couldn't have found a more beautiful spot. We are really, really indebted to you for organizing this." She also drew her friend in a hug.
"Aw, come on girls, that was nothing. Besides, I really loved doing this for you. Anything for my family," Santana answered with a sheepish smile, trying to wipe a traitorous tear away without them noticing. She was moved to be the only person to be let in on the secret. Her dress was made of dark blue silk without a halter. It hugged the Latina's figure and fell in a pencil form down to the mid of her shins.
Quinn and Rachel had decided that they preferred the actual ceremony of getting married to be amongst themselves. They didn't want the distraction of friends and family. At first it had sounded harsh to their own ears, but this sacred moment was more important for them than anything in this world, especially after all they had been through together.
It wasn't that they didn't want others so see their ceremony; it was rather that they wanted to concentrate only on themselves, not having to break the newly formed bond so quickly again by having to tend to their guests.
They knew they would create havoc amongst their loved ones once they broke the news, but they hoped that they would understand. Besides, they still held on to the actual celebration they had planned and organized two days from now. They wanted to celebrate their unity with their friends and family, but just not during that one important moment; it was reserved for them and only them.
"Ready?" Santana asked.
Quinn nodded and squeezed Rachel's hand, who smiled back at her.
Together they started up the path towards the chapel. Also inside the only light was caused by candles. Lots of candles. The Latina never forgot that Rachel needed to be able to see people's faces and signs during the ceremony. The smell of wild flower bouquets and bees wax candles filled their nostrils. It was a beautiful aroma. The candles illuminated the room and the yellow sandstone was dipped in golden light.
The appointed official of the City Clerk's Office, Mr Santori, stood at the small, wooden altar and smiled expectantly at the small group.
Even though there were just four people assembled, the chapel did not seem empty. The light, the flowers, everything created a wonderful warm atmosphere. Santana watched her two friends take their places in the front and could not stop the goose bumps appearing on her skin. This truly was a beautiful place and she thought that Quinn and Rachel had chosen wisely to take this moment for themselves. Not that all of their friends and family would share that opinion and be happy about missing out, but then again, their whole reunion was and would always be against all odds. Santana smiled. She could relate, never being the one who tried to fit in.
Mr. Santori greeted the women and welcomed them to the ceremony.
After having applied for the marriage license and filling out the necessary documents, they had agreed that they would like an official ceremony, but not held by a clergy. With Rachel being Jewish and Quinn being catholic, they wanted to keep everything simple. They still held on to their faith and religious upbringing, but had decided that the actual service did not have to be held by either of the churches. It was nice though, that they did have the ceremony at a small church. It kind of made up for actually not having a real church service. Since it stood on private grounds and also belonged to a private family, there hadn't been any discussion about the type of service taking place. Besides, they intended to fulfill the Christian and Jewish rites at the celebration with their friends and family later.
Now, they could just concentrate on each other.
The official documents were laid out on the altar so they could be signed appropriately. They had prepared and filled out the necessary papers required, but Quinn was so happy that it was now possible to do the final step with the last signature somewhere other than the official administration offices in downtown New York. It gave the whole union a much more beautiful setting.
They had agreed that Santana would interpret the official's words, while Quinn would sign for herself. The Latina settled next to the official, half a step behind him. This way she wouldn't hinder him, but Rachel could still see all her signs without having to look away from him. Santana had also chosen a darker color for her dress, because her hands could be seen much easier by Rachel; the contrast of her skin against the dark fabric.
Santana smiled at them and started interpreting as soon as Mr Santori started speaking.
The official gave a beautiful and honest speech about the meaning of marriage and sharing the rest of their lives together.
"What does it say about you when you give to someone else? It says you care. It says you value them. It says you've considered them, and given them time and attention. In short you've got off your own agenda and put yourself firmly on theirs. And in today's world that's quite a statement. I always cherish these moments when I am able to witness that two people love each other and want to give themselves to each other. The commitment and responsibility and love and joy is what fills lives in the most wonderful way. You have to open up to life, you have to be courageous to let your walls down and invite some in to share your life."
Rachel smiled. She knew exactly what he meant. She had erected some high walls in the past.
Mr Santori also explained some official parts again, like their rights and responsibilities. It was a formality, but he managed to envelope it in a fitting manner, choosing wise words.
Before they exchanged the vows, he cited a beautiful poem from an unknown poet.
"I have chosen this poem, because it seemed to me very fitting to both your circumstances. I like hearing about the lives of the couples I am about to wed, because it makes it easier to find the right words. It is called Vivid Life by an unknown poet."
He looked at the both women, before beginning to recite.
"Modest joy, sometimes an inner tremor, lighting up
In joyous expectation of what might, will should, could come.
Holding back of emotions – and still it is knocking.
It's knocking at the door of inner vividness,
That turns in the frame of learned restraint.
If I want to live full of joy, intensive, heartfelt and erect,
I mustn't search for protection, for safety –
I have to jump without a net;
I have to present life the naked chest with open arms!
To make myself vulnerable also means to truly open up
To the fullness of life, to all its aspects and levels.
I want to follow the inner pull, the subtle call.
The inner child wants to be seen and resurrected, wants to be freed from its hideout.
It wants to live and be what it is.
The path can be stony and I feel that it needs courage and trust.
It can lead into freedom, through all colors of experiences,
Through deep fear and wild joy, through vulnerability, hope
Openness, spontaneity, heaviness and lightness, truthfulness and clarity."
He paused and gave some time for the words to settle, for the meaning to sink in. Rachel and Quinn held each other's hand and both were deeply touched by the rawness and honesty in the verses.
The official continued after another moment. He knew by the expression on the two women's faces that he had chosen wisely. It wasn't a poem he recited lightly, but for this wedding it had seemed fitting.
"Deciding to share a life with another person, to commit to a life together, to commit to the responsibility, to the joy and pain, to the ups and downs, problems and solutions, to love and being loved, means to truly offer life the naked chest, as it says in the poem." He smiled.
"Only then you will truly know each other and truly grow together. Offer each other your unguarded inner self, open up, embrace and learn. Never fear! And if you do, see fear as a companion who helps you find the right way, but never let it lead you astray or stand in your way. When we love, we often also fear. Fear that we are not loved back, that we hurt the person we love or that we might lose that love."
He waited for Santana to finish signing.
"You have presented each other your heart, you have provided a home and a sanctuary for each other. Never fear to fight for it, defend it, and nurture it. But never try to inhibit it, reign it in or tune it down. Be true to yourselves and you will always be true to each other. Honesty and openness are important if you want to keep growing and growing together. Always be proud of your love, show it openly and most importantly," he grinned before continuing, "always remember to kiss."
When he finished he gave the two women a moment again to digest the words and to make sure, Santana had finished signing. Santana chuckled quietly when delivering his last words and Rachel threw a daring look at Quinn from under her lashes, telling her silently that this was something she'd definitely never forget.
Quinn breathed in slowly, trying to calm the butterflies in her stomach that have been flying all day, but definitely became more agitated after receiving that look from the chocolate brown eyes.
The blonde closed her eyes for a brief second, letting the words go through her mind again. She had liked Mr. Santori the first time they had met to discuss the necessary documents and organizational details. She had a feeling that he took his job seriously and she was truly touched by his words. It didn't sound like he recited them at every ceremony, they felt as if he had chosen them individually. He had been interested in their story, and she and Rachel had willingly shared it.
He seemed to have truly understood the sometimes difficult path the two women had walked. When he had asked them about the first thing that had truly told them they had crossed the threshold from friendship to lovers, both Quinn and Rachel had answered in unison: "The kiss," referring to the first kiss they had shared at Quinn's place during their first shared dinner.
"You have prepared vows to exchange, I understand?" Mr Santori then asked.
Quinn and Rachel nodded. Rachel turned towards Quinn and quickly cupped her cheek with one hand. She would have liked to hold her hand or keep any physical touch while the exchange. But that would have hindered her in signing. So after a moment she took her hand away.
Quinn instantly missed the warmth, but the feeling of Rachel's hand still lingered with her.
Rachel lifted her hands, accompanying her own words with signs.
"Quinn, you are my lover and my teacher,
You are my model and my accomplice,
And you are my true counterpart.
I will love you, hold you and honor you,
I will respect you, encourage you and cherish you,
I promise to be your lover, companion and friend,
Your partner in parenthood,"
Rachel smiled shyly at the last sentence and Quinn squeezed her shoulder gently.
"I will be your ally in conflict,
Your greatest fan and your toughest adversary.
I will be your comrade in adventure,
Your student and your teacher,
Your consolation in disappointment,
Your accomplice in mischief.
My door with always be open for you and your beautiful soul.
My walls will never exclude you,
With you I create my home,
With you, I venture out into this world.
You are my strength, my breath, my light.
This is my sacred vow to you, my equal in all things.
For all the days of my life.
Always."
Quinn felt the tears stream down her cheeks at hearing these beautiful words. They touched her deep in her heart and she felt such a contentment and fulfilment at this very moment that she almost thought her heart would explode.
She needed a moment to collect herself before she could go on. Santana handed her a tissue and Quinn dabbed her tears with one hand away while Rachel held her other. She looked at Quinn with such beautiful, warm eyes and her love for the blonde was reflected in them so deeply, that Quinn found it hard to breathe.
"I love you so much, Rachel," Quinn burst out and pulled her lover's hand to her lips to kiss it lightly. Then she forced herself to close her eyes for a moment. She needed to collect herself to be able to deliver her vows. It was so important to her that Rachel understood those words.
She took a deep breath and slowly let go of Rachel's hand and lifted her own to sign again.
"Rachel, you see me like no one else does,
You bring out the best of me and you believe in me.
You showed me true love and acceptance.
I learned that your love will always help me grow,
That love is not there to hurt, but to heal.
Through you, I became a better me."
Quinn had to pause and take a deep breath before she could continue.
I promise to encourage your compassion,
Because that is what makes you unique and wonderful.
I promise to nurture your dreams,
Because through them your soul shines.
I promise to help shoulder our challenges,
For there is nothing we cannot face if we stand together.
I promise to be your partner in all things,
Not possessing you, but working with you as a part of the whole.
Lastly, I promise to you perfect love and perfect trust,
For one lifetime with you could never be enough.
This is my sacred vow to you, my equal in all things.
I promise above all else to live in truth with you
And to communicate fully and fearlessly.
Should you ever be at a loss for words,
Should you ever get locked out from yourself,
I will find the key and I will always find the way back through to you.
I give you my hands-"
She smiled at that, knowing that especially for Rachel this had an additional meaning.
"- and my heart
As a sanctuary of warmth and peace."
Now it was Rachel's turn to cry. All these words held such true meaning and such love that she didn't know how to contain her own love for that woman who bravely had stood with her through all her ups and downs, who had saved her life and who had shown her true happiness.
Both women weren't sure if they broke any protocol, but on impulse they pulled each other in a fierce hug and held each other for a while. They felt each other's heart beat and that short moment was instant bliss, it felt as if they were one, as if the last part of their souls had melted together.
Santana had to fight the tears herself. She grinned and wondered how on earth these two women had managed to turn her into a total mush. It was the third time she was crying in one day. That was a world record for her. But even Mr Santori was touched by the display of open affections. He gave them another moment and when the two women had regained their composure, he concluded the ceremony and asked the two women to sing the last of the marriage papers.
Santana also put her signature down as witness.
After the last formality they exchanged their rings. They were both simple, matt silver bands, but Rachel's held a small diamond in the shape of a star and Quinn's was formed in the shape of a sun. They had both chosen these symbols for each other not letting the other see it before they exchanged it.
Rachel's star had so many meanings and she smiled fondly as she stroke light finger over it. In high school she had always placed a small golden star behind her name every time she signed something. Later, friends of her had given her a special name sign in ASL, meaning 'star'.
Rachel in turn had chosen Quinn's symbol as a sing of light. She had pulled Rachel out of the darkest of times and had served as a beacon of light for her. Also, Rachel had given her the ASL name sign that stood for 'light'.
Handing them the documents, Mr Santori concluded the ceremony.
"See these vows not only as promises but also as privileges; you get to laugh together and cry together; care for each other and share with each other. You get to run together and walk together; build together and live together. You get to cherish each other's individuality and value each other's opinions. And the best of all, you get to love each other. Congratulations!"
Quinn and Rachel beamed happily at these wise words.
"Thank you for wonderful words, Mr Santori," Rachel said as he stepped closer to congratulate them.
"Thank you very much, this really was a beautiful ceremony," Quinn also added. "And thank you for coming all the way out here."
Mr Santori smiled. "You're welcome. I always love to see different places and I understand the wish for couples to fulfil this part not in a dusty old New York office." He laughed. "And even though this was not a real religious service, this location is truly care and have a wonderful evening. Enjoy the celebration with your friends and family later as well."
"Oh they will," Santana chimed up, which made them laugh. Mr Santori gathered his things and left and with a formal handshake.
"All the best for you, Mrs Fabray," he turned to Rachel "and Mrs Fabray." Then he laughed. "I always love that part," he added and then left the small church.
Santana spread her arms and hugged their friends. She held Quinn in a strong embrace for a moment, then kissed her on the cheek.
"I'm really happy for you Quinn. I have always wished for you to meet someone who would see through your tough girl demeanor. Someone who would help you treat the wounds and scars your father left, someone who would help you look beyond your fears and doubts and someone who would help you grow and become the wonderful, caring, brave person you are. It's good to see my wishes for you come true," she smiled.
Before Quinn could respond, the Latina turned towards Rachel and pulled her into a fierce hug as well. Just like before, she signed along her words.
"Rachel, I know our paths haven't always been clear of obstacles. Our early relationship was filled with anger, animosity and hurt, but I always admired your tenacity, your will to keep your chin up and your drive. I hoped that one day you would find some peace and someone who could keep up with you and your speed. Someone who would lift you up should you not be able to go on, someone who would share your dreams with you. Someone who would love all of you and accept the love you can give." Santana looked at both women. "You both have found your true soul mates and," she laughed a bit embarrassed and wiped a tear away," before I start bawling in front of you, I have to finish." She shouted the next word without singing and was sure Rachel would understand what she said.
"CONGRATULATIOOOOOONS!"
The three of them laughed and cried at the same time and stood in a small circle, holding each other for a moment.
After the ceremony and the exchange of a long and passionate kiss, Quinn and Rachel slowly made their way back out of the little church. By now, darkness had set and stars glowed from a perfect firmament above. More lanterns had been lit in the meantime, guiding them through the small alley of pink and purple rhododendrons towards the guesthouse.
Temperatures had not dropped, it stayed warm enough to sit outside and on the patio of the house a small table was set for two.
Santana skirted around the pair and pulled out the chair for each of them.
Then she stood between them, lifting her hands to sign along.
"Ladies, you'll have the rest of the evening for yourself, because I will make myself scarce now." She paused for a moment, taking on a serious expression. "It was truly something very special to be allowed to share this moment with you and I'm more than happy to see you two happy and together." She swallowed. Quinn and Rachel knew that this was one of the rare moments where Santana showed her softer and vulnerable side. "You are my best friends, my family and," she smiled wickedly, turning back into her old self, "I would have kicked your asses from here to kingdom come had you not gotten your acts together again two years ago. I swear." Quinn and Rachel chuckled.
"Yes, that's what I feared," Rachel answered still laughing and stood up again to give her friend another hug. "You truly are family, Santana, and I love you. You never accepted my boundaries and self-limitations and even though I hated you during some moments, today I can say that I don't regret one thing that you and the rest of our friends told me honestly or made me do. You gave me back some of my freedom, Santana, and for that I will be forever grateful."
"Nah," Santana gave a dismissive wave with her hand and grinned, "I just did what I do best, being little old me."
"And that's how we love you, you dork," Quinn added and pulled her friend close.
"Thank you for helping us organize this. I can only repeat myself. You helped us turn this into the perfect moment that we will never forget."
"And thank you for interpreting," Rachel added. "That meant a lot to me."
"I know," Santana nodded, gave Rachel's hand a short squeeze and took a deep breath, trying to keep all her emotions at bay.
"Well, time for me to go and to leave you to your respective wives! Enjoy your dinner and, ahem, the night," she added with a wink. "The limo will pick you up at two o'clock tomorrow afternoon. That will give you enough time to prepare for the "official" celebration with the rest of the bunch the day after tomorrow."
She blew them a kiss and disappeared down the path, before either of them could say another word.
"Ever wonder when friends cross the boundaries and turn into family?" Rachel asked.
Quinn shrugged. I don't know. I guess when you share your live with them, when they go through all ups and downs with you, when they are never afraid to tell you that you are wrong - or right – when they never fear to see the worst of you – or the best.
"We are lucky to have such friends. That is for me the greatest gift, you know. Knowing that we have such wonderful people in our lives who care for us, who love us the way we are and who share their lives with us in return. This is what makes life worth living."
You make live worth living, Rachel, Quinn added with her hands.
"I guess we both help each other out here in that respect," Rachel chuckled and leaned across the table to share a kiss with her wife. Then she entwined their fingers and looked at the rings.
"Quinn and Rachel Fabray. That sounds lovely."
I still need to get used to the fact that you truly are my wife now. My w-i-f-e, Quinn signed and spelled the last word. This is so amazing that I need to pinch myself every two seconds to see that this is really true!
Rachel laughed. "Well, don't pinch yourself too hard, I still want to enjoy my wife tonight as a whole."
"Uhhh, yes," Quinn smiled and threw Rachel a smoldering look from under her lashes.
They enjoyed their four course dinner and deliberately decided to take their time, letting the anticipation and excitement of the night to come build. There was only one staff member who unobtrusively served them food and drinks and seemed to anticipate their every wish.
Once the last bit had been polished away, the newlywed couple made their way up into their room.
Another ice cold bottle of champagne awaited them with fruits of the season. Someone had brought up their luggage from the limousine earlier and again had lit lots of candles in the room.
The room lay on the first floor, above the patio where they had enjoyed their dinner.
While they slowly took in their surroundins, they heard the patio doors below them close. The candles outside still stayed lighted and the breeze played with the soft white silk curtain at the balcony door. They had learned that the staff would leave shortly after they had finished their dinner, ensuring complete privacy. And since no one else shared the guesthouse with them that night Quinn and Rachel had the place all to themselves. Should any need arrive, however, a service hand was only a short phone call away.
They shared a glass of champagne and fed each other some grapes. Someone had placed a soft rug and comforter on the floor of the balcony, and added some comfortable cushions. They leaned against them and snuggled closely together. Looking up at the stars above them, they shared a long moment of content and silent bliss.
Rachel leaned in Quinn's arms. The blonde raised her arms, circling Rachel's torso.
I never imagined this day to be so perfect and calm and joyful and happy. I could burst of happiness and run around grinning and waving my arms wildly, she grinned and kissed Rachel on the temple who chuckled.
"That would be a funny picture. Would you run with your clothes on or without?" The brunette teased.
You only want to see me naked, admit it, Quinn answered.
"Hm, yeah, that is definitely a sight I hope to see tonight, Mrs Fabray" Rachel nodded, playing with one of Quinn's fingers.
Mrs Fabray… Quinn repeated spelling the name. Rachel Fabray. Then she dropped her hands.
Rachel turned, sensing a shift in her wife's mood.
"What's wrong?"
The blonde shook her head. Nothing. She shrugged. It's just…
"What?" Rachel sat up, frowning.
I just wish you could hear me saying your name. Rachel Fabray. It really sounds lovely. I wish you could hear me calling you my wife. I wish that you could hear me screaming at the top of my lungs while running around in the garden that I am so happy to be married and to call you my wife.
"While you crazily wave your arms, not to forget," Rachel added, smiling and trying to lighten the mood again.
Yes, Quinn conceded, giving Rachel a small grin. That as well.
She understood what Rachel was trying to do. But as much as she had learned to accept Rachel's deafness and adapting to it, there were moments where it still hit her hard. This was one of them.
Rachel bit her lip. "I know what you mean," she whispered. "While we were in that church, exchanging the vows, I wished for nothing more than being able to hear your voice." She sighed. "I think I still remember the sound of it and I imagined you in my head talking to me. But I'll never know if my imagination is accurate."
Quinn kissed Rachel gently on the lips, cupping her face with one hand in a comforting manner.
"But I have learned that while it is still okay to wish for something, it's not healthy to linger on these wishes if you know they can't come true. And yes, there is a part of me and always will be a part of me that wishes in certain moments that I could hear. I mean, it's generally something I wish all of the time, but you know what I mean."
Quinn nodded. Moments like this just make the wish more prominent.
"Yes. It's okay to say it and to admit that we feel that way. I would be lying to say that I didn't have my share of regrets when thinking about today. Not because of the marriage or the ceremony," she added hastily. "More because of what I might be missing out." She looked down and played again with Quinn's fingers.
But you are going to tell me that we should not linger on this, because it will make us all sad? Quinn's hands formed the question, after she carefully had entangled herself from Rachel's caresses.
Rachel smiled. "Yes. It's not that I don't care or that I don't take your words seriously. I just don't want to have this beautiful, beautiful day end on a sad note."
You're right. We have so many happy things to think about for today. Quinn stated. And to look at, she then added, wiggling her eyebrows, ogling Rachel in a funny way who started to laugh.
"Do I get to see my wife naked after all?" Rachel asked.
You might, the blonde smiled mischievously and started playing with the zipper of Rachel's dress.
"This might be easier if we stand up, don't you think?" The brunette got up and pulled Quinn with her. They entered the living area of the beautiful suite and then rushed into the bedroom. All of a sudden, nothing else seemed to exist than the two of them.
Rachel lifted her long hair and Quinn quickly peeled her out of the dark garment. While still stepping out of the dress that now lay forgotten on the floor, the petite woman already fiddled with Quinn's.
They soon had rid themselves of all things that hindered them touching each other's skin.
As in the other rooms, candles had been lit and bathed both women in a warm and soft light. Quinn marveled at the dark golden hue shimmering over Rachel's body, and she softly traced a forefinger over her wife's - she still had to get used to that, she through smiling – abdomen. She saw the muscles ripple under Rachel's skin and admired the perfection that lay before her.
Slowly she bent down and started kissing the round breasts, flicking her tongue softly around the nipples, feeling a heat between her legs rise when listening to the soft moans her actions produced.
She looked up and found Rachel watching her. Quinn knew that Rachel often didn't close her eyes. She preferred to watch the blonde, not being able to hear her. With other partners, it had always disturbed her, but with Rachel, it turned her even more on. She raised her own hazel eyes and returned the intense look.
Both women had a way of communicating through their eyes that often didn't need words. It was as if they had developed a language of their own. Not consciously, but when communicating, due to Rachel's disability, they had learned to keep constant eye contact and over time, Quinn had noticed that she often knew what Rachel was going to say before she actually uttered a word.
She had learned to relay also on reading more body language and facial expressions. Both had already been good at that due to their professions, but their close relationship seemed to have enhanced their abilities to express and read body language.
Quinn straddled Rachel's legs, facing her. Then she bent down, never breaking eye contact and kissed her way down the other woman's belly, then her left leg. Her hands wiggled slightly under Rachel's buttocks and squeezed them gently, again causing her wife to moan in the most delicate way. It was a mixture of pleasure and longing, clearly begging for more.
When she made her way up again, slowly covering every inch with kisses and little nips, she felt Rachel's hands on her head, gently pulling her up for a real kiss. Their lips and tongues connected and became more passionate by the second. Rachel raked her hands through Quinn's hair pulling her even closer. Some strands came loose and fell in soft waves around her face.
After a moment they had to break apart for air, only to continue demonstrating their love for each other a moment later.
Rachel rolled Quinn on her back and then straddled her, leaning a bit forward on her arms. Then she started to slowly grind her lower body against Quinn's, causing the other woman to moan. Rachel's arms touched the blonde's rip cage and she felt the vibration and watched the sound escape her lips. The singer squeezed her eyes shut for a moment, trying to get reign on her feelings, but Rachel's slow and intense movements only managed to arouse her more.
Quinn forced herself to open her eyes, giving Rachel a chance to see in her eyes what she couldn't hear. The brown eyes connected with her and were filled with such passion and love and desire that the blonde almost had an orgasm just from looking at them.
"You're so beautiful, Rachel," she managed to say and sign.
"You're … even …. more so…" Rachel managed between gasps, never interrupting her undulating movements. She watched Quinn's hands stroke her breasts and when she gently squeezed her nipples, Rachel threw her head back. "Oh Quinn," was all she managed to utter, before both women felt the tidal wave of an orgasm wash through them at the same time.
Rachel bucked and Quinn's back arched upwards, both women currently lost in their own seventh heaven. When the spasms finally ebbed away, Rachel collapsed on Quinn, both still breathing heavily.
"I want to feel you inside of me," Rachel whispered once she trusted that her voice would sound steady. She felt Quinn nod against her, her chin touching the top of her head that lay on Quinn's torso.
They took another few moments to let the aftermaths of this first orgasm run through their bodies, before they increased their caresses again. They tried each other, they explored each other and tasted each other like never before. They were discovering each other as a married couple, and it felt as if this bond had only enforced and strengthened their love and desire for each other. They opened up and gave everything, not holding back one second and never doubting the other.
They exchanged love vows and verbal caresses – sometimes Rachel reading them from Quinn's lips, sometimes Quinn signing, sometimes she wrote them with a finger on Rachel's skin. No matter how, she made always sure, Rachel would understand.
Nothing was left unsaid and nothing was held back, much like the words that had been given to them during the ceremony.
Only in the early morning hours they finally fell into a deep slumber, completely sedated and glowing with life, happiness and love.
© by Phoenix2013, 2015