Title: All I Need is You
Chapter 3 - Honeymoon in Greece

~Athens, Greece~

After their love making session in the water ended, Mac and Stella lingered in the water a bit before the cool night air started to remind them it was time to head back inside for the night. They both showered together, their bodies washed clean from the salty residue they had enjoyed not to long before. Stella dried herself off, rewrapped the towel around her cleaned body and went in search of her husband; only to find him in the living room with a warm fire started.

"Come here," he whispered as he arranged a small space on a blanket on the floor for them to enjoy. Stella eased herself down into Mac's open arms; she snuggled closer as the fire started to grow.

"Love this," she murmured in a lazy tone as she rested her head on his shoulder. "Very happy we got a fireplace in our new apartment. Electric or otherwise."

"Just close your eyes and rest," Mac instructed as he placed a warm kiss on the top of her damp curls and smiled when some broke free of the group and started to tickle his bare neck and shoulder; areas the covered had failed to cover.

"Okay," she whispered as his arms around her tightened. Stella willingly closed her eyes; loved the feeling of her husband keeping her safe and warm. Her mind drifted into happy dreams about them making love in the ocean to the birth of their new child.

By time she opened her eyes next, it was almost morning; her brain had correctly assumed that Mac carried her into the bed as she slept; so careful not to awake her, and it worked. She gazed at his handsome face, peaceful and rested and smiled to herself. She watched as his brow slightly tensed as his mind obviously showed him something he didn't like, but then offered a small sigh of relief when it relaxed back to his proper position. His hair was messed up; which gave him a youthful appearance; his body warm and desirable for her eyes to feast on.

"Stella," he whispered; still asleep. Even in his sleep, his thoughts were only of her and that warmed her heart in ways she never thought possible. With no where to rush off to, she gently placed her head back down on his shoulder and his arms automatically tightened around her.

"Morning," he murmured, not waking up.

"Good morning back," she whispered, planting a warm kiss on his bare chest. "Mmm love the smell of morning Mac," she teased his chest, gently trailing her tongue on the warm skin; her eyes delighted as his skin rippled with small little bumps of delight.

"Feels good," Mac replied as he slowly opened his eyes to look down at her with a warm gaze. "And you get after me for being frisky in the morning," he stated. But as his words left his lips he offered a soft intake of air as her lips rested on his nipple and sucked. "Damn Stella," he groaned as he was finally forced awake by her flirty actions.

Stella wrapped her arms around Mac's waist as she raised her lips to be rewarded with a kiss. Mac cradled her face in his warm hands as he planted as many warm kisses as she could handle.

"Love morning Stella," he praised as she moved herself up higher on his frame so her eyes locked with his. "One of these days we get to stay in bed all day."

"Naked?"

"Well clothed in bed seems like a waste," he answered in haste to which she poked his tender side. "After all," his voice trailed off as he stretched his body to reach for his watch and then looked at it with a small frown. "We are..."

"A day behind?"

"We missed a day," he huffed as he resumed his original position. "So that means..." he smiled down at her. "We have a lot of time to make up for."

"You are taking me to see the Temple of Zeus at least once while we are here."

"We have two weeks Stella," Mac reminded her.

"And if I allowed you, I'll bet that you'd spend those two weeks right here."

"Would you be with me?"

"Maybe," she teased.

"Maybe?" He arched his brows as he gently pushed her back into the warm covers. Her curls spilled around the soft sheets as his body lowered into his. "You have to agree with me."

"Why?"

"I am your husband."

"That just means I should agree with you," she countered and he smirked. She wrapped her arms around his neck, as she pulled him closer. "But you are taking me to that Temple. And when we get there I am going to offer you to the gods for being so stubborn."

Mac just offered a laugh at her playful words as his lips started to crush her with warm passionate kisses, his hands already starting to explore her body as she gently writhed beneath him. They started into another energetic love making session; both eager to use up the energy they gained the night before, before heading out to take in a few sights.

XXXXXXXX

Mac loved the feeling of his wife's body pressed up against his as he directed the rented scooter toward one of the sights they planned for the day. Their itinerary for the next two weeks was just to enjoy being together, take in a few sights, eat lots of food and have sex whenever and wherever privacy would afford them. They visited the Temple of Zeus as Stella had requested, ate in a small seaside restaurant before returning home to venture down to the dark navy ocean that called to them under the cover of darkness; their bodies becoming one under the gentle arms of their salty guardian.

The next few days were almost the same as the first; an early morning love making session, a delightful home made breakfast, a visit to the Acropolis one day; the Parthenon the next; a walk through the Plaka and Psiri; a visit to the Temple of Poseidon and the Agora-Athens central market.

XXXXXXXX

"Mac I can't believe we go home in a week," Stella moaned as she started to change into something fancy for going out. Mac had promised to take her out for dinner and dancing and was finally making good on what he offered.

"Sorry my love," he frowned as he walked into the bedroom, slowly doing up his dress shirt. "Do I have to wear a tie?"

"Want to have sex after dinner?"

"Striped or solid?" He asked in haste, making her laugh.

"Striped does it for me," she replied with a grin, taking delight in his handsome appearance. He finished adding the black and white stripped tie; a small accessory that contributed to his black suit and white shirt.

"You look amazing," Mac whispered in her ear. He gently pushed aside a stray curl and took advantage of her hair being up by planting a soft kiss on her fragrant neck. "Man you smell good. Can't we just stay in?"

"No way Mac, you promised," she kindly reminded him, as she fastened her second earring. She had chosen a fitted black cocktail dress so they both matched.

"You look beautiful," he murmured with a warm smile. "I have already called a cab. No scooter tonight; wouldn't want you to mess your hair."

"You such a smart man," she praised and he smirked as they finally took their leave. Stella held Mac's hand as they the cab carried them to an upscale restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean, the city now a jeweled bed on the earth below them.

"Wow Mac, the view is amazing from up here," Stella smiled as she leaned over the railing, forcing Mac to quickly grab her arm and pull her back. "Mac, I wasn't going to fall," she insisted as she turned to face her worried husband with a loving glance. "But thanks for always watching."

"I do always watch," he whispered in return as they slowly headed inside and were shown to their private table in a small alcove that looked out over the dark waters and sparking city lights.

"The city looks amazing from up here," Stella noted as Mac gently held her hand in his. She looked at him and noticed his warm gaze fixed on their wedding bands.

"Sometimes it's still hard for me to believe this is all real," he lightly admitted; not looking up.

"What is Mac?"

"This. Being here with you," he finally looked up and locked his warm sapphire eyes with her wanting emerald ones. "I don't think I have ever, and I do mean ever, enjoyed life more than I have this past week." His voice stopped for a brief moment and she noticed a small lump forming in his throat as a rare public Mac Taylor emotional confession was about to be heard. "I am almost afraid to wake up each morning and find myself alone and unloved," he finished with a swallow as he pasted on a tight smile so the world around wouldnt see him as weak. "I am truly blessed Stella, to have you in my life."

To see him in such a vulnerable emotional state made her heart weak. Mac was private; more private than any other man she had ever known. But he also wore his heart on his sleeve for those that looked close enough; like she always did. He had loved before and lost that future to an ugly act; now he feared it again and she knew he had to tell her or it would eat away inside.

She gently squeezed his hand as she brought his wedding band to her lips and kissed it before she looked up at him with a loving gaze. "I am the one who is blessed Mac," she admitted and he smiled. She watched his posture as it started to relax and found herself relieved as she offered an unheard sigh of relief. "And I'm not going anywhere."

"I know I promised you a day to go to the Pireaus and take a ferry to one of the islands but would it be okay if we just relaxed tomorrow? Kinda didn't want to have to worry about sleeping in tomorrow and missing the boat," he lightly begged. "I mean it is Sunday tomorrow."

She looked at his handsome face and her heart melted. How could I say no? She questioned herself. "Relaxing in bed, naked with my husband? Hmmm yeah might have to think long and hard on that one," she teased and his face relaxed completely. "I would love that idea."

XXXXXXXX

The waiter returned and Mac sat back and offered an amused smile as Stella argued with him about something on the menu; smiling when she finally got her way.

"You didn't offer my services to do the dishes did you?" Mac questioned and she chuckled.

"Trust me if you are going to be offering your services to anyone, it will be me," she stated firmly. "Why do you think I made you wear the tie?"

"Made me?" Mac challenged.

"Oh I so made you," she laughed as their wine and small appetizer finally arrived. They started into their meal and their conversation focused; not on work like it usually when they would be out for a fancy dinner in New York; but on the amazing places they had visited in the past few days. They knew when they got back they would soon be faced with reality again, where work, a new home and a new family would all take center stage; begging for their precious time.

"That was wonderful," Mac mentioned as he leaned back in his chair after he had finally devoured the last bit of Greek food off his plate. "I think I am going to smell like garlic for a week. How do they do it here?"

"Kiss me Mac," Stella demanded.

"Here?"

"Just give me your lips already."

Mac smirked as he willingly leaned in close and allowed his wife to plant a warm but full on mouth kiss to his waiting lips.

"How was that?"

"You're kidding right?" Mac replied dryly.

"I mean't did I taste gross?"

Mac looked at her and it finally dawned on him that her mouth didn't taste any differently than his.

"I could have offered you tongue here but..."

"Stella!" Mac huffed as his faced turned a darker shade of red; to which she lightly laughed at. "I get the point."

"Trust me Mac, if these people allowed a little bit of garlic to stop them from having sex, this city would be pretty deserted. And in the days of Alexander the Great they didn't have mouthwash."

Mac just shook his head at his wife's playful explanation and smiled once more. "You amaze me," he told her as he slowly stood up and offered his hand. "More and more every day."

Mac led Stella to the small, intimate dance floor as they started to blend in with a few other couples. He wrapped his arms around her lush body, holding her close as they swayed to the romantic instrumental that was being played. When the music stopped, Stella held Mac close while everyone watched as the hostess took the stage.

"Welcome everyone. I was told that we have a special couple in the audience tonight. A Mr. and Mrs. Taylor," she started and Mac looked at Stella in shock.

"Surprise," she said weakly.

"But..." Mac started in soft protest.

"Both are from New York City and have come here as Mr. Taylor thought it would be a very special treat for his native wife to come home to Greece for their honeymoon. Congratulations!" The hostess finished and the happy and somewhat surprised couple was greeted with warm applause. "As a special tribute, this is a native love song that is dedicated to them. Enjoy."

"Stella?"

"Only the best shout out to you Mac," Stella smiled as the music started to play and the dance floor cleared around them.

"You did this for me?" He managed, his eyes welling.

"For us," she corrected as his arms around her tightened once more and the music started. "I love you."

Mac looked at her in wonder as he finally realized what she had been telling their waiter in Greek. "I love you too," he whispered as he held her close to his body, his heart racing with love and admiration. The Greek words continued to call to his brain and even the multiple pairs of eyes that watched his every move didn't unnerve him as much as he thought it would; his love for his wife made sure his mind was at ease.

The music died down and Mac gently dipped Stella for the pleasure of the crowd as he tenderly kissed her lips once more and then brought her back up; once again to the delight of their audience.

"Thank you for an amazing gift Stella," Mac whispered as he led them off the dance floor back to their small private table. Mac moved his chair around so that he was now seated by his wife, his arm draped around her shoulders; another thank you kiss already planted on her cheek. They listened to the music a bit longer before Mac took Stella in his arms once more for another few slow dances before they took their leave.

"Thank you for an amazing night Mac," Stella whispered as she leaned against him in the back of the cab as it headed back to their romantic hideaway.

"Well I need to show my appreciation for tonight," Mac replied as they get out and head for their darkened villa to unwind for the night. Mac closed the door and took off his jacket as Stella headed into the bedroom to take off her jewelry and wrap before she headed back to find Mac.

Mac finally finished making the fire for them and stood up to face his wife who looked at him with a come hither smile.

"Come here Mac," Stella gently directed and he was quick to comply, his shirt already half unbuttoned, his tie hanging loosely around his neck. Mac allowed Stella to slowly unbutton the rest of his shirt and then let it fall to the floor, his tie the only piece of fabric on his chest. With the heat he didn't wear an undershirt and Stella was quick to voice her approval.

"Give me your hands, Mac," she directed as she slowly slid his tie from around his neck and teased him with it.

"Should I ask why?" He lightly questioned but offered his hands to her. Mac's grin as well as his desire for her started to grow as he watched her gently tie his wrists together with the piece of striped silk. When finished, Mac stood before his wife with only his black dress pants and his wrists bound, ready for her to do what she wanted.

"Come with me Mac," she smiled as she took him by his bound wrists and dragged him back into the bedroom. Mac smiled as he stood before the bed and allowed his wife to unzip his pants and push them to the floor, his desire already making itself known to her.

"I need you Stella," Mac informed her as she pushed his underwear to the floor so that he only had the piece of silk that bound his wrists as fabric on his naked body.

"I need you too Mac," she answered in haste as she pushed him back onto the bed and slowly started to take off her dress.

With his wrists bound, Mac found it hard to push himself to a better position, higher on the bed as his mind relished in the wonderful delight as he watched her undress for him. "You are so amazing," Mac praised as she slowly removed her underwear and then climbed onto the bed, straddling his waist.

"Arms up Mac," she ordered and Mac happily complied, as he allowed his wife to push his bound wrists up so that she was able to slide her hands up his captive arms; her mouth relishing in the taste of his warm skin as it started to nibble his firm muscles.

Mac felt Stella move herself into position, his body already ready to accept hers. Mac brought his bound wrists over her neck and then received her lips as his hungrily devoured them. He found it a bit odd as he wasn't able to grasp anything and had to rely on other parts of his body as he made love to her, but as his mouth rewarded her actions with groans of delight, he found the new sensations of his current situation rewarding.

"Oh Stella..." he whispered as his body arched into hers; her lips warm as they sucked on his ear and then moved to his neck.

"Come to me Mac. Make me feel your love," Stella begged as their rhythm started to hasten as they neared climax. Mac felt her hands grip his back once more as he offered her one last thrust and then the room was still.

"Amazing Stella," Mac managed as Stella's glistening body pressed down on his; his bound wrists still around her neck. And while he knew during their session, his strength was more than enough to pull them apart, he left himself bound until she was ready to let him go.

"Thank you Mac."

"For what?" He arched his brows in wonder.

"For allowing me bind you. I know your strength could have ruined my fun."

"What?" Mac teased as she poked his side, making him smirk. "There is no way I could have broken free."

"Good to hear," she breathed as she kissed his lips once more. "Kinda liked you like this."

"Me too," Mac whispered as he kissed her once more. Mac finally brought his wrists up over her head and rested them above his head. Stella finally released him as they gently pulled apart, Stella now on her side draped over his chest. Mac pulled the covers over them, the sound of the crackling fire in the other room brought smiles to their faces as Mac turned off the light and kissed Stella on the cheek; whispering goodnight before both were whisked away into a night of happy dreams and new untold fantasies.

XXXXXXXX

Stella slowly opened her eyes the following morning and smiled to herself at another magical night she spent with her amazing husband. At the end of the week they would be headed for home, but all these amazing memories would be coming with them; enough fuel for the next few years. Mac was so willing at times to bend to her sexual wishes that it almost scared her. Much like him there were times when she would wake up, feared she was alone and all this was just a dream.

But then she would look at the handsome man beside her in the warm bed as she smiled and knew her future happiness was set; he wasn't going to just up and leave, he loved her and she knew it. She glanced at the crumpled silk tie that hung near the bed; unaware that her husband was now awake and watching.

"My turn next time," Mac's warm voice forced her eyes to lock with his and reward him with a good morning smile.

"Sorry Mac, that was my idea," she teased and he just pouted. She leaned in and gently kissed his lips, sucking on the lower one a few seconds longer. Her ears took delight in soft groan but pulled back before his body could betray himself to her once more.

"So we are just going to relax today right?"

"Nope, we have to get ready right now to catch that ferry," Stella offered him with a mock frown as she tried to push herself out of bed.

Mac's hand quickly shot out and pulled her back against his bare chest. "Nice try," he teased as his warm fingers caressed her bare skin, get lost in golden curls. "Did you forget our deal?"

"We had a deal?" She arched a brow.

"I had a deal?" He countered weakly.

"You had a deal? With who?"

"Stella?" Mac huffed and she finally laughed and he just rolled his eyes as he slumped back into the soft bed. "Why do I always fall for what you tell me?"

"Because you love me," she reminded him.

"Well that is true," Mac agreed as he kissed her once more. "Shall I help with breakfast?"

"Breakfast in bed?"

"Really like the sound of that," Mac stated eagerly.

"Well then..." Stella smiled as she pushed her naked body out of bed and stood before his smiling face.

"Stella you can't walk around naked," he moaned as he felt his body started to tingle.

"Our place is private Mac. You can too if you want."

"Please Stella?" Mac gently begged. "Otherwise I can't leave this bed; privacy has nothing to do with it, this time I have to yield to bodily desires and nature."

Stella leaned in and captured his face in her hands as she kissed his lips before she reached for her robe and covered her body and then headed into the kitchen. Mac was quick to follow as he too dressed himself in his robe and hurried after her. They talked about their schedule tomorrow as they made their breakfast and then headed back to the waiting bed. They both eased back down and slowly fed one another their breakfast before once again shedding their robes and then both enjoyed another intimate love making session.

The afternoon arrived and both dressed and then headed outside for a walk, hand in hand, around the property their villa was located on. They enjoyed some of the fruit but mostly the company of the other. They talked about their new apartment and what furniture of theirs they would keep and which they would discard. Also if a family was on its way then they would have to also purchase some furniture for the newest Taylor.

The afternoon approached and after another warm outdoor lunch both headed inside and decided to take a warm shower where another hot love making session ensued before they once again dried off and then just lingered in bed, contented to be held by the other while they this time flipped through their digital pictures and laughed about which they would keep and which they would toss.

Evening finally rolled around and while Stella started supper Mac had already headed outside to start up the barbeque and prepare the table. Stella put the last item in the oven and then slowly headed outside to see Mac on the balcony. She wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed his cheek.

"Mmm love the smell of warm Mac," she teased as she tickled his ear with her lips. "You know I can't remember a more relaxed and enjoyable day. Think we'll be able to do this when we get back home?"

"Linger in bed and just eat and have sex?" Mac queried with a growing smile.

"Yes exactly."

"Well I think before we have a family and we somehow lose every electronic device we own then yes, I think it might be possible."

"Oh ever the optimist," Stella poked his side, which forced a small laugh from his lips. "Come on Mr. Optimist, time to eat."

Mac willingly followed his wife back into the kitchen to help set the table but inside his mind he had already agreed to at least try to spend one day a month just being with Stella, even if they did nothing at all. In fact he would prefer that.

"So which island are you taking me to tomorrow?"

"Hios," Stella reminded him as she handed him the small brochure. "It's one of the smaller ones in the Agean sea but I was told it has lots to see and some great places for a picnic. Are we going to rent a car or take the scooter?"

"I think we should rent, what do you think?" He always asked for her input. He knew inside that if she wasn't happy there was no way he was going to be.

"Might be a bit more comfortable in a rented car."

"A car it is," Mac answered as they started into their meal. Stella read from the small brochure about their destination the next day as Mac listened and smiled. After dinner he once again very carefully led back down the small private path to the beach; the salty ocean had already extended its call to the amorous couple.

Stella helped Mac undress and then delighted when he returned the favor before he scooped her naked body up in his strong arms and carried her into the ocean before he slowly eased them both into the cool, tingly water. Their chills subsided once their bodies started to offer the warm sticky heat as their latest love making adventure continued. Stella hands gripped Mac's back as he entered her, his fingers lots in damp curls; the other hand holding her close.

She rewarded his efforts as she arched her back into his salty frame, her lips filled his ears with pleasurable moans as his mouth once again silenced hers with hungry, passionate kisses.

"Mac!" She gasped as their rhythm increased as they neared the end, the sound of the waves almost drowned out by their own gasps and moans of sexual desire and love. Stella gasped one more time and then like the times before the water around them was finally still, both spent of the energy they had built up during the day.

"That was wonderful..." Stella breathed as she pushed some wet hair off Mac's face and then laughed when she messed it up. Mac didn't care; the more happy and delighted his actions made his wife, the happier his life would be in the long run.

"You are wonderful," Mac whispered as he held onto her warm salty body until she started to gently tremble from their lack of movement. "But we do have one problem."

"We have nothing to wear back up to the top?" She smiled as she slowly pulled apart and then turned to get out.

"Stella, what if someone sees us? We're wet and can't dress in..."

"Would you rather wait until morning?" She arched a brow and he just rolled his eyes before he followed after her. Both quickly gathered their clothes and then rushed up to their villa and were inside before the caretaker made their nightly rounds to ensure all was in order. Both enjoyed a hot shower, cleaning away marital bliss and salty residue before once again falling asleep happy and contented in each others arms.

XXXXXXXX

Mac slowly opened his eyes the following morning. As per his usual these this past week and a bit, he would look down to ensure that Stella was still at his side where he wanted her. Unlike being at home where he hardly slept, his nighttime ritual in this corner of the earth seemed to change completely. His mind hadn't complained as it was more than welcomed but a bit unnerving at the same time. He loved to watch her sleep; her beautiful face at peace and perfect. Her flushed lips, slightly parted, soft curls teased her flawless skin. Her chest slowly moved up and down with each careful breath she took; his eyes of course fixed on her perfect breasts, which begged for even the smallest kiss. So with a daring move, he leaned in and kissed the one that was now exposed.

Mac smiled as Stella's mouth curled into a soft grin, her body automatically reacted to her husband's loving and flirty action. Mac was finally rewarded as two sparkly green emeralds appeared; locked with his own sapphires and her grin widened.

"We have to catch a ferry," she reminded him and he returned a small pout. She gently directed his lips to hers and then tasted them with love. "But we have tonight."

"I am actually looking forward to today," Mac stated as he watched his wife slowly sit up and then smiled up at her as she started to mess up his short hair. He loved when she ran her fingers through; her actions always made him warm from the core outward.

"You should try the bed head look one day Mac," Stella suggested.

"Should I also wear jeans and a t-shirt to work?" He playfully countered as she leaned in and planted a warm kiss on his bare chest.

"Not if I'm there you can't," she warned and he frowned. "You'd never get any work done."

"Stella, I hardly think my choice of dress would distract my mind from the job."

"Maybe not your mind," she teased as she kissed his mouth once more. "I mean for the rest of us gals who'd have to watch you all day long."

"Hardly," Mac huffed as he wrapped an arm around her back and pulled her back down.

"And I of course would have to attack you whenever you walked past; so you'd be paying me to do nothing."

"Nothing?" He arched his brows and she laughed. "But I kinda like the thought that I would be able to distract you away from work."

"Trust me Mac, if I wanted to, it wouldn't matter what you were wearing."

"Then I guess we have that in common," he whispered as he kissed her back. His tongue started to explore her mouth further but just as he was about to allow his body to react the small clock started to beep; it was time to get up or they'd miss their ferry.

"I truly hate alarm clocks," Mac groaned as he rolled over and quickly shut off the alarm. But as much as both hated the chirping, both were quick to get out of bed and get dressed; an exciting day ahead, called to them. Once dressed, Stella poured two travel mugs of strong Greek coffee while Mac called for a cab that would take them down to Piraeus where they would rent a car and then board the boat for Hios.

"Don't like small cars," Mac moaned as he got into the drivers side and then started up the small domestic automobile.

"Should have asked for a Saturn."

"Why?"

"Dent resistant doors."

"Thank you very much," he deadpanned while she laughed.

Mac guided the small car toward the waiting ferry and then both got out and headed upstairs for some breakfast before they headed outside onto the large deck and stood in each other's arms as the large vessel navigated through the warm Aegean waters below.

"Think they could dye the Hudson this color?" Mac questioned and Stella laughed.

"Not enough color to make it look like that," she replied, her eyes fixed in the distance as they neared their island of choice. "Wow Mac, it's so amazing."

"Look behind you," Mac whispered in her ear.

He watched her turn around and then both stood in awe as the Acropolis, the Olympian Temple and a few other historic landmarks stood proud and tall; stark white captured against rich blue.

"Kinda makes Lady Liberty pale in comparison," Stella mentioned with a slight frown. "Magnificent."

"Something you'd have to see to truly believe and appreciate what the rest of the world has to offer us mortals."

The ferry finally docked and Mac drove the car where Stella directed. They entered a few small towns, stopping to get a few small gifts for their friends and a few delectables for a picnic lunch.

Mac watched his wife talk to one of the local vendors as she gathered some items for their picnic lunch before handing him the canvas bag and then heading onto the next one.

"What did that last one offer you?"

"Something to keep you under my spell," Stella teased as she kissed his cheek.

"You need food for that?" Mac shot back and Stella laughed.

"You are a fast learner Mac Taylor."

"Ah I have a good teacher."

"So where do you want to eat?" Stella wondered as they neared the car.

"A picnic by a nice secluded beach?" Mac suggested.

"And you are becoming quite the romantic," she praised.

"You are rubbing off on me," he mentioned with a shy smile. "Anything to make you happy."

"How about also making yourself happy?"

"That does make me happy. Trust me Stella, in personal matters I'd happily yield to keep you happy," Mac replied in haste; rewarded with a loving smile and another kiss from his wife who simply adored him.

"I love you Mac," Stella whispered. "Now let's get me fed so I'll stay that way."

"Yes ma'am," Mac teased as he pulled away from their last road side stop. Mac drove past a few small public beaches before they happened upon one that was relatively secluded and he stopped.

Mac helped Stella bring the blanket they had brought from their villa and set it up while she arranged their lunch items; the rich blue Aegean waters their only audience. Both settled onto the blanket and then started into their ethnic treats. Mac always delighted when Stella would offer some interesting tidbit about the items history; his love for her grew stronger as each second passed.

"You know when we get back I might need to go on a diet," Mac moaned as he eased himself onto his back, thankful for the shade the large tree was now offering.

"Are you getting fat Detective Taylor?" Stella teased as she crawled over to him and gently eased herself down on her waiting husband's chest.

"You tell me," he smiled as he waited for his first kiss.

"I have eaten just as much as you. Am I getting fat?"

"Hardly," Mac replied and she grinned.

"Ah good answer. For that you shall be rewarded," she told him as her mouth started to devour his, her hands moving to the button of his jeans. Mac's hands quickly grabbed hers; once again afraid they'd be caught in the act.

"Trust me Mac, we are alone. I want to make love to you here, in the open."

"But Stella..."

"I don't care and we do have a blanket," she reminded him as she tasted his mouth once more.

Mac looked up at her with a warm smile. "I can never say no to you," he whispered as he moved them so that both of them were covered with the blanket. And despite the fact that it was hot and beads of sweat had already started to develop, Mac wrapped his arms around his wife and started to kiss her firmly; her hands once again on the zipper of his jeans.

"I love you Stella," he confessed as his hands gently moved up the back of her top; careful not to reveal too much but enough for his fingers to enjoy the touch of perfect skin. "Make love to me."

Stella smiled at her husbands request and was more than happy to comply and while the quiet waters did pay the couple some heed; they also ensured their privacy until their act of love and devotion was over.

XXXXXXXX

"So what did you want to do for the rest of the time we are here?" Mac wondered as he helped her pack up their stuff. "I know there are a few more things that..."

"I'd like to spend them in bed with you," she replied and he looked up at her in shock.

"Really?"

"Well not every second but..." her voice trailed off. "Just relaxing, is that okay?"

"Stella, whatever you want is fine by me. I'm here to be with you; no matter where that is."

"I know when we get back; we'll have work, the move and probably a few other things to contend with and just spending the day relaxing might not..."

"Be afforded to us?"

"Exactly."

"Well you really don't have to twist my rubber arm," he informed her as they packed up the trunk and then got back into the rental car. "I think that idea is great. But what about cooking? Stella I don't want you to have to..."

"Well there is that small seaside cafe just down from where we are. Want to eat there tomorrow?"

"And tonight?"

"Dinner in bed?"

"What time is the next ferry?" Mac asked in haste as Stella just laughed; her mind always relished in his playful and eager mood toward being intimate with her.

XXXXXXXX

The next morning Mac was the first to awake. He gazed down at Stella; his lips curled into an automatic smile as he watched. Her face was beautiful and at peace; her soft body relaxed in his arms and her heart offered him a steady rhythm.

In a few days they would be home and then the chaos of real life would ensue once again and he knew that it would be hard to find real time to just sit down or even lie down together and just enjoy being together as they have here. He looked past Stella toward the window and offered a heavy sigh.

"Mac?" Stella greeted him which forced his attention immediately back to her.

"Morning," he smiled as he leaned in and kissed her warm lips. "You feel a bit warm this morning, you okay?"

"Too much excitement and sun yesterday. Don't worry, I'm okay," she teased.

"But..."

"Mac, I'm fine. Just all the sun from yesterday. What were you thinking about? You had that look in your eye."

"What look?"

"That look, when you are contemplating something major."

"Actually just thinking that I would like to keep your couch; the one in storage."

"My couch?" Stella arched a brow as she twisted herself around and propped herself on his chest; her actions pushed her deeper into the warm pillows and blankets.

"Just like yours better."

"My what?" She teased.

"Your everything," Mac replied and she grinned in return as she kissed his lips firmly and then pulled back.

"And if do keep my couch what will we spend all our extra money on?"

"A new bed."

"A new bed?" She arched her brows again. "You said you liked your bed."

"Well it's true that we made a lot of good memories on that bed, but I think we have a lot more to come."

Stella smiled a her husbands words as she pushed herself out of bed and then offered her hand to which he readily took it. He followed her out of bed as she led him into the bathroom and started up the hot water for their shared shower.

Mac started to set the table for breakfast as Stella finally joined him and they headed outside once again to enjoy the warm morning sun.

"So what color do you want our new place to be?"

"Paint or furniture?" Mac queried.

"Either, both."

"Stella, I dont really..."

"I know you do care Mac. And you can't just let me pick out the colors and then grumble when I pick out spring shades and you wanted earth tones."

"Pardon?" Mac questioned and Stella just smiled.

"Seriously."

Mac leaned back in his chair and offered his wife a slight frown. "Earth tones? What is that? Blues and greens?" Mac wondered and Stella just leaned forward and squeezed his hand. "It's not. Okay so give me a choice."

"Well dark brown goes really nice with cream and light green."

Mac just arched his brows and Stella just smirked. "Sure."

"So next Saturday you and I are going to head to a paint store and I'll show you some samples. Does that work?"

"Stella, I really don't think you need m..."

"Mac...you don't have a say. We are doing this together."

"Next Saturday works for me," Mac agreed in haste and Stella just laughed. They finished their breakfast and then headed for the scooter and down the road again to a small nearby open air market.

As he watched Stella shop for some native jewelry, his mind drifted back to their breakfast discussion and the fact that she wanted him to be involved with their new home as much as possible. In truth, he didn't mind; but it was new for him and so some things about all this still made him nervous and a bit scared. He couldn't tell Stella, as he wanted to assure her that he was okay with everything, but inside his heart was worried; worried mostly about his role in his soon to be altered future as a possible father.

He watched a young girl run up to Stella with something for her to take and how his wife eyes lit up when she caressed the child and thanked it for the beautiful item. When she looked up and locked eyes with him he felt love and comfort at the same time; as if she in that moment assured his fears of being a father that they were unfounded and they would be able to make it together.

"What is it?" Stella asked him as she slowly walked back with the small trinket in her hands.

"You, simply that," he answered and she kissed him on the cheek.

No matter how many times in the past week they got onto the scooter to travel around, each time Stella's arms wrapped around his waist and held on, his lips curled into a broad smile. He loved the feeling of her body pressed up against his; loved the feeling of her heart beating against his back; each beat declaring her love for him. As per her ritual, she planted a warm kiss on the back of his neck and gave him a squeeze, he then knew it was okay for him to pull away.

Inside he doesn't care if they have a boy or a girl as he knows Stella will be an amazing mother to either and they would be brought up with the same values, principles and free will. It's just the idea of being a father that still has him a little rattled. When he and Claire had talked about it briefly he remembered he wanted to just be married, telling her that they would have time. But as Stella reminded him as of late; that coupled with other events beyond his control, time wasn't on their side and it was short and precious. Too precious to be planning for the future instead of living for the present.

XXXXXXXX

The next morning Mac awoke to find that he was alone in bed. He offered himself a stretch and a yawn before he looked around for his wife.

"Stella?" He gently called as he pushed himself up to a seated position.

"In here Mac!" Her voice calls from the bathroom.

Mac offers a small frown as he reached for his underwear and quickly dressed. He pushed himself out of the warm bed and went in search of his wife. He rounded the corner to the bathroom and stopped short, a smile immediately formed on his lips.

"Morning," he smiled down at her naked body slightly covered with bubbles in the old fashioned tub.

"Why are you dressed? Those can't get wet."

"So I'm to join you?"

"You better," she teased.

Mac quickly shed his underwear and the gently eased himself into the warm soapy water behind his wife. "Hot."

"Yes you are," she grinned as she twisted herself around to face him.

But before Mac could react, Stella moved herself so that his body was now in front of hers.

"Stella?"

"Your turn to relax on me Mac," she instructed as she pulled his body back against her chest.

"I better not be hurting you," he stated in haste.

"You could never hurt me Mac," her arms around her tightened.

"Think I could get used to this."

"Ah like baths do you?"

"Only with you. Trust me I will not be doing this alone," he informed her and she laughed as she kissed his warm back.

"Mmmm you smell good. Bubble bath Mac," she laughed as he just smirked. They lingered a bit longer until they had once again used the energy they gained the night before in a heated, watery love making session, before they washed off and then got out. They spent the rest of the their last few days, resting, making love and just enjoying each other's loving company.

"Can't believe we are actually going back home in a few days," Stella slightly frowned as she finished her packing.

"Where did the time go?"

"Time flies when you're having fun?" Stella smiled as Mac brought the last suitcase to the door and wrapped his arms around her.

"But I am happy to be going home with my amazing wife."

Stella looked up at him before she gently brought his lips to hers and kissed them firmly. "We have an amazing life waiting for us to live Mac. We have a new home and a new future, and hopefully a new family to look forward to. I'm excited about going back home."

"So am I."

~Albany, New York~

The week for Ella had passed by with miserable slowness. Since she was told she now faced the possibility of going home in possibly a month, time couldn't pass by fast enough. Each day become more and more monotonous; but her mind fixed on only one thing; leaving this place and getting back to what she thought she had before, a growing relationship with a man she thought she loved. A man who in reality didn't give her more than a passing thought; a man in love with his wife as they now worked to start a new family.

Ella slowly walked the lonely halls of the rehabilitation center with a small smile stuck to her pale face. The past few months had been hell on her; both mentally and physically; the only thing that kept her going was the thought that she would soon be out and then she would reconnect with Mac and try to get some semblance of normalcy back to her life once more.

"Ella!"

"Hey Molly."

"I hear you might be able to leave this wretched place soon," Molly Evans offered with a whispered curse.

"Looks that way," Ella smiled eagerly. "Then I am going back to Manhattan."

"To what's his name? Carl right?"

"Carl?" Ella laughed. "Not likely. I'm going back to Mac. He's the only man who's ever loved me."

"Carl said he loved you too, I heard him tell you that last week when he was here."

"He just said that to get laid."

"Did it work?"

"Well I was bored," she frowned. "My Mac will wait for me," she state falsely.

"Well I think that Carl is better. He's at least more your age. This Mac guy is old enough to be your father."

"Don't say that! I hated my father! Mac is not like him; I love him and he loves me!"

"Right. Sorry...whatever you say Ella."

Ella offered the other girl an angry expression before she turned and stormed away; another daily childish tantrum in her wake. She slammed the door to her small room, slumped down on the bed and grabbed her phone. She quickly pulled up one of the many secret pictures she took of another woman's husband and smiled at them.

"I know you love me Mac. We'll be together soon. I know you are waiting for me."

A/N: so hopefully all not bored yet; one more chappy of fluffy smacked honeymoon to go and then full speed ahead. Hey I had to give them some real downtime and hard to rush two weeks into one or two chapters!! Hehe...hope you all enjoyed this and please review and let me know.

PS: okay so I have been writing up a storm and am updating everything this week before the premiere so hopefully that's okay! Right Next Door updated tomorrow! THANKS YOU GUYS ROCK! Let's keep smacked alive. Please review and let me know you ain't givin' up Me or our fave couple!