Forever, My Love

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the SSD characters and canon. All credits belong to the incredibly gifted & talented Martha Williamson, Eric Mabius, Kristin Booth, Geoff Gustafson, Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe, Gregory Harrison, Sherry Miller, Zak Santiago, & Jill Morrison. Anything mentioned is for storyline purposes only. No copyright infringement intended.

Chapter 3

It was a 40 minute drive & by 8:30 AM, the newlyweds had finally arrived at the Mayfair Hotel.

After getting checked in, they made their way up to their room, but Shane had no idea about the special surprise waiting for her.

Considering the fact Oliver was still not used to using modern technology, like a computer, he enlisted the help of Rita to book the nicest room at the Mayfair, the Penthouse suite.

Walking in the room, Shane couldn't believe her eyes. She turned to Oliver & gave him a questioning smile. "Oliver, how did you…"

"Well, my love. You know I've never used a computer, so Rita helped with the technicalities, but it was all my idea as I wanted to do something special for you for our honeymoon. I hope you like it."

Slightly surprised at his comment, she responds. "Like it? Honey, I absolutely love it! Thank you so much! I can't believe you did all of this. You really do spoil me."

Oliver wraps his arms around her waist, gently pulls her close, and rests his hands on the small of her back as he gazes in her eyes. "Of course. My only desire is to make you happy and feel special every single day because you are so precious to me."

Shane wraps her arms around his neck and plays with his hair at the back of his head. "You are my world & I know how much you mean those words because you prove it with your actions every moment of every day. I am so happy you're mine forever."

"The feeling is mutual." He gives her a tender, loving kiss then a smile. "Sweetheart, I know what's on both of our minds, but would you like to take a tour of our room first?"

"Yes, I would love that as long as it doesn't take too long. I just can't wait much longer, darling. I want to be with you."

"I want to be with you, my love."

After a tour of their suite which ends in their bedroom, Oliver closes the curtain then turns his attention back to his wife as he rests his hands on her hips. "So, what do you think?"

She wraps her arms around his neck. "This is amazing."

"You're amazing."

Not another word was spoken as Shane gently pulls Oliver in for a long, passionate kiss which he returns with even more passion. Breaking apart from the kiss, the deep, loving gazes returned as Oliver stroked her hair. "Shane. I just can't take my eyes off of you."

Shane places a tender kiss on his now bare chest then smiles flirtatiously at him while resting her left hand on his cheek. "I'll never be able to take my eyes off of you."

Oliver gazes at her longingly and starts playing with the fabric of her undergarments. "May I? I can't wait another second."

Shane smiles at her husband and runs her hands down his sides. "Yes, please continue." She places a few kisses on his neck. "I want all of you right now."

"I want all of you, my beautiful Shane."

It didn't take long before they were in bed getting caught up in their deep, passionate love for each other.

As Oliver ran his hands gently through Shane's blonde tresses, he placed a few loving kisses behind her ears and on her neck & shoulders. "I just can't resist you."

A soft moan escapes Shane's lips as she rests her hands on his hips. "Neither can I. Don't stop."

It was difficult for them to get any words out considering their lips were constantly drawn back together every few seconds but somehow, they managed to express their feelings.

"Oh, Oliver. I am. So. Crazy. About. You."

"I am. So crazy. About. You." He briefly stops kissing her to gaze in her eyes. "Love me, sweetheart" He runs one of his hands through her hair. "And let me love you."

An hour later, they were facing each other in bed sharing loving looks.

Shane strokes Oliver's hair. "Wow! That was incredible!"

"It certainly was." He runs his hand up & down her side. "I'll never get enough of you."

Shane runs her hand across his chest. "I won't either, honey. You are the sweetest man who always makes me feel so loved and cherished and I couldn't be more grateful to call you mine."

He places a tender kiss on her forehead. "That will never change." He starts running his hand through her hair. "You are my everything and I will love & cherish you forever. I'm so grateful you're mine."

Shane gives him a loving smile. "What do you say, we put some clothes on and then get back in the bed for a while?"

"That is alright with me. The only thing I want right now is you in my arms."

She pulls him closer and leans her nose against his. "And the only thing I want is to snuggle with my husband."

Shane is the first one to get out of bed. As she is putting on her tie dye loungewear, she senses that her husband hasn't moved from his spot. "Well." She turns around to face him & smiles. "Aren't you going to get up? I thought you wanted to snuggle."

"I do want that very much. I just got very distracted gazing at my beautiful wife."

"Oh, Oliver. It just melts my heart when I see you look at me at like that."

"That look will never go away, Shane. You are a vision & truly stunning."

"You are too sweet." She joins Oliver in bed again and places her left hand on his cheek. "Thank you."

Oliver gives her a smile then gets up to put on his boxers and a pair of blue shorts. Knowing his wife, he could feel her gaze. "What are you thinking about, my love?"

Shane looks him up and down lovingly. "You." She gazes in his eyes. "I'll never get over how incredibly handsome you are."

Deciding to leave his shirt off, Oliver slips back into bed with Shane. "You are so cute."

Shane runs her left hand across his chest. "So are you." She snuggles into Oliver's side and lays her head on his chest.

He wraps his left arm around her, pulling her closer & kisses her hair making her heart melt into a puddle.

"What would you like to do for our first day in London?"

"Would you be disappointed if I said I just want to stay in our room all day and…" Lovingly teasing her, he continues his sentence. "What was the word you used earlier? Snuggle?"

Shane loved hearing her husband using new vocabulary and a smile comes across her face as she responds. "No, not at all. Just being in your arms & snuggling would be the best way to spend our first day here."

"I couldn't agree more. It would also be a great time to catch up on some sleep considering our jet lag."

"That's a good point. We certainly want to be well rested for all of our London adventures."

Oliver smiles and nods. "Yes, we do."

Shane thinks of an idea she wants to share with her husband. "What would you think about us exploring the countryside at some point while we're here?"

"That would be wonderful. I'd love to explore the England countryside with you."

"I feel the same way, I know we'll have an amazing time."

"I have no doubt we will." He briefly pauses. "I wonder if we'll see any cows while we're there."

Shane busts out laughing which in turn causes Oliver to laugh as they think back to their first time on the Kellser farm. "Oh, my goodness. Oliver! I love you!"

"I love you!" He thinks of a question to ask. "Do you remember how hesitant I was when Abby introduced us to Polly?"

"Oh, how could I forget?! You looked so cute experiencing farm life & I was very proud of you in that moment." She gives him a flirtatious smile as she caresses his chest. "I also remember that was when you asked if I wanted to go steady with you."

"You're right. I certainly did. I'm so happy we're still going steady."

"I couldn't be happier for that. I wouldn't want to go steady with anyone else."

"I echo your sentiments, my dear." He repeats his earlier thought. "So, do you think we'll see any cows?"

"Well, it's hard to say but it will be fun either way."

"That it will." Oliver surprisingly yawns. "I'm sorry, Shane. "It's not the company. I really want to keep talking but I guess I'm more tired than I thought."

"It's alright. We did have a long trip so it's completely understandable. How about we take a nap then get some lunch afterwards?"

"That would be wonderful. Thank you, sweetheart. You're always looking out for me."

"And I always will."

After sharing a kiss, Shane turns over & Oliver snuggles up against her back wrapping his arm protectively around her waist, gently pulling her close.

It only took them a few minutes of companionable silence for them to fall asleep loving the feeling of being in each other's arms.

They had been resting for an hour and a half when Oliver suddenly wakes up in a cold sweat & feeling very unsettled. He calls out to his wife. "Shane!" He starts tossing and turning. "Come back Shane!" Tears begin forming in his eyes. "Please! Don't leave, Shane!"

By now Shane is awake too and turning over to see her husband unsettled & in tears broke her heart. She calls out to him in a comforting tone. "Oliver! I'm right here, love."

Not hearing anything Shane said, he continues, still in tears. "Shane! Please don't leave me! I need you & can't live my life without you!"

Very gently shaking Oliver, she tries to get his attention once again. "Oliver! Oliver! I am right here, sweetheart."

Within a few seconds, he finally hears his wife and opens his eyes to look at her. "Shane! I'm so happy to see you."

She runs her fingers through his hair. "I'm happy to see you too but it's breaking my heart to see you like this." She gives him a concerned yet loving look. "Are you alright, love?"

"No, I'm not."

"What's wrong?"

Tears are still falling from his eyes as he sits up in bed. "Oh, Shane!"

The hair stroking continues as she gently prods him for more info. "Oliver, please tell me what's wrong, sweetheart. I love you & want to be here to help you through this."

"Shane! It was horrible!"

"What, my love?"

Oliver has a hard time getting the words out from crying. "Shane. I just. I just dreamed. That you." Realizing his thoughts are becoming jumbled from crying, he changes his words. "That I was. At your bedside. At the hospital. In Washington D.C. You were severely injured during your." The tears & sniffling after every few words continue. "Overseas mission with. With Steve. And you. You. Oh, Shane. I can't even say it."

"Oliver? Did you dream that I died?

The tears are now falling harder than ever. "Yes."

"Oh, sweetheart! That is horrible! Come here!" She immediately but gently pulls Oliver into her arms for a comforting hug as she rubs his back with one hand and strokes his hair with the other. "Shhh. Everything's alright, love." Feeling Oliver's tears falling on her shoulder, she continues trying to comfort him as best she could. "Shhh. I'm alright, Oliver." With continuous tears in her eyes, she places a few rapid, loving kisses from his neck to his cheek. "I'm right here." She gently holds his face in her hands and gives him a very long tender kiss on his forehead. "I'm right here." She pulls back to look in his eyes while still holding his face in her hands. "Oliver, is this the first time you've had a nightmare about losing me?

He answers regretfully. "No. It hasn't happened a lot, but it's often triggered by lack of sleep."

Shane calmly asks her next question. "Why haven't you told me this before? You know you can always be honest with me."

"I know, Shane. I'm sorry. I just didn't want to be a burden to you."

Shane climbs on his lap to face him. "Oliver, listen to me. You will never be a burden." She gently wipes his tears away that are still falling with her thumbs. "I love you so much & always want to be here through thick and thin."

"I know & I love you more. There are times when I think back to those letters you wrote to me while overseas, specifically the fourth one, and I just. I just want to cry." Tears starts falling from his eyes again. "I know I told you this on the night of our reunion, but I am so sorry for all the hurt I caused you. If something really had happened to you, I never. I never would've forgiven myself."

In a comforting tone, she responds. "Sweetheart, it is alright. I want to apologize again for all the hurt I caused you. It was never my intention. I never would've left on that mission with Steve if I actually knew what he was doing and how long I would really be gone. That was a rough time for both of us, but I came back safely & we're together now…forever. Isn't that all that matters?"

He gently runs his hands up and down her sides. "Yes, it is all that matters but Shane." He briefly pauses. "It angers me what Steve did. That night you left when you had gone inside to pack and it was just the two of us on the porch, I asked him if you would be safe & he gave me his word he'd protect you. Intentionally taking you into a high danger zone knowing the possible consequences is not keeping you safe or protecting you." Tears start falling once again. "You are my heart, my soul, my life. And I just don't know how I could've gone on if I had lost you. It would have broken me into a million pieces." With more tears, he shakes his head. "I should've asked more questions. I should've been more protective of you & I wasn't. I feel like I let you down."

As tears continue to fall from her eyes, she gently takes his face in her hands again & strokes his cheeks with her thumbs. "Oliver O'Toole! Don't you dare say that! You did not let me down at all. There is no way you could've known what was happening over there, but it melts my heart with just how protective you are of me & how you would go to the ends of the earth to make sure I am safe every single day. Those 3 months apart from you were incredibly hard and as you already know from my letter, I was so afraid I'd never see you again. I may still be new in my faith, but I can honestly say one of the biggest things that got me through was prayer. The other was, of course, the thought of coming home to you."

"Shane. Thank you for your comforting words. You always know just the right thing say to ease my mind & calm my fears." He gently grabs her face in his hands and strokes her cheeks. "I want you to know, there'll never be a day when I don't do everything do everything I can to make you feel safe & protected. I'm just so thankful God brought you home safely to me."

"I couldn't be more grateful for that too. And of course. You are my heart & soul, my life, & my whole world. I love you with every fiber of my being & I will never leave you." While still holding his face in her hands, she rubs her nose against his & shakes her head. "I will never in a million years leave you, darling."

He continues holding her face in his hands while leaning his forehead and nose against hers. "I love you with my whole heart & more than I'll ever be able to put into words. I will never in million years leave you. I am yours forever, sweetheart."

She sweetly kisses his lips. "I will forever be yours." She briefly pauses. "Oliver, if it's alright. I'd love to pray for you."

A warm, thankful smile comes across Oliver's face. "Of course, it's alright, Shane. Thank you."

They keep their foreheads together as Shane gently takes both of his hands in hers & says the prayer. "Dear Heavenly Father, I come to you in prayer for my sweet husband, Oliver. I pray that you'll calm his fears, remind him to always trust in you, and most importantly, Lord." She gently squeezes his hands. "I pray that you'll help him never forget just how loved he is. Please assure him that I will never leave, never let him face anything alone, and that I want to stand beside him through thick and thin." She takes a moment starting to get emotional. "Lord, I just can't thank you enough for giving me the most wonderful man as my husband. He is my best friend & the love of my life, and I truly can't live my life without him. I also want to thank you for this beautiful day you've given us to enjoy being newlyweds & for all the amazing memories I know we'll make here in London. May you continue to bless our marriage from now until forever. In your name, we pray. Amen."

Oliver is in tears again. He gently squeezes her hands and gives her a sweet, tender kiss. "Shane, my love." He goes back to holding her face in his hands and leaning his forehead and nose against hers. "That was a beautiful prayer. Thank you so much again. It means the world that you would do that for me."

Shane starts doing the same thing Oliver was again. "It was my pleasure. You mean the world to me & will always be in my prayers."

"You will always be in mine."

For the next few minutes, they remain in the same position they had been while occasionally sharing tender kisses, rubbing noses, & stroking each other's cheeks but not saying a word. All they wanted was just to enjoy a quiet moment of closeness.

Still sitting on his lap facing him, she gives Oliver a loving but concerned look. "Oliver, dear. You still look tired. Do you want to finish our nap before getting lunch."

Oliver shakes his head no. "I can't. I'm scared I'm gonna have another nightmare about losing you."

"It's tearing me up inside to see you struggling like this." She strokes his hair. "Is there anything else I can do to comfort you?"

"Yes. Can you just hold me? Being in your loving arms is the only thing I need right now."

"I'd be happy to. I can't imagine doing anything else than holding you in my arms."

Within seconds, they are lying back down with Shane snuggled up against his back and her left arm wrapped around his waist. She gently takes his hand, intertwining her fingers with his and places a few tender, loving kisses on the back of his neck. "I know you're scared about having another nightmare, but I want you to know I will right here by your side to help you through if that happens. I'm not going anywhere, love."

He brings her hand he's holding up to his lips & kisses it then holds it against his chest. "Thank you, sweetheart. I have no doubt you'll be by my side. You truly are my rock and I'd be so lost without you."

"And you are mine. I truly don't know where I'd be if it weren't for you."

It was now around 2 PM and they had just woken up from another nap. Oliver was lying on his back while Shane was propped up with her right elbow on the pillow gazing at him and resting her left hand on his bare chest. "Hi." She leans over to give him a kiss. "How was your nap?"

"It was wonderful & being in your arms is the most comforting thing in the world."

"I couldn't agree more. I love holding you in my arms."

There was a brief pause as Oliver started running his left hand up and down her left arm. "I just have to say…thank you for always being there for me."

"It's my pleasure. You're my husband who I absolutely adore, and you see this right here." She gently takes his hand in hers and runs her thumb over his wedding ring. "This is my promise to you that I will always stand by your side."

He lifts her hand to his lips and kisses it. "The same goes for me. You are my wife that I love more than I can even describe & I will always stand by your side."

"I know you will." She briefly pauses. "Have you told your dad about your nightmares?"

He shakes his head. "No, I haven't. I just don't want to be a burden to him."

She places a gentle hand on his cheek. "Darling, you should tell him. He loves you so much & I have no doubt he'd want to be there for you."

"I love him too and I'm sure he would." He momentarily pauses. "When we return to return to Denver, will you stay with me when I tell him? I don't think I'll be able to get through it without you."

She gazes in his eyes lovingly. "Of course, I will. There's nowhere else I'd rather be."

The loving gazes continue with no words spoken & Oliver takes notice of exactly what her desire is. He gives her a smile & tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear. "How would you feel about taking a shower to…"

She immediately interrupts him. "Yes." She gives him a flirtatious smile. "I'd love a shower with my husband." Running her hand across his chest, she continues. "You literally read my mind."

"Well. What can I say? I know my wife." Oliver's left hand slips under the sheets to find the hem of her shirt & flirts back, running his hand up & down her side. "And all I want right now is a shower with her."

"It sounds amazing already." She pulls back the covers & takes his hand. "Come on."

Excited for this time with his wife, Oliver happily follows Shane's lead. Soon they were standing face to face completely exposed & holding hands while basking in the sight of each other.

"You are so beautiful." Needing to touch her, his hands move up & down her sides. "You truly take my breath away."

"The same could be said for you." Her hands run through his chest hair. "You are so handsome & I must say incredibly sexy."

"Oh really?! You think I'm sexy?"

"Mhmmm hmm. The sexiest man in the world and I could literally start a fire with what I'm feeling for you." She doesn't hesitate teasing him a bit as her hands go to his hips and she kisses his neck.

"Ohhh. Shane." He moans her name as his hands slide into her blonde hair & he cradles her face. "I want you."

She keeps her hands on his hips. "I want you…so much. Don't hold back, honey."

"That's not happening, darling." He doesn't waste another second & very soon they were in the shower showing just how much they mean to each other.

45 minutes later, they were back in the same pajamas from earlier. Shane was sitting at the dresser brushing her hair when she suddenly felt Oliver come up behind her, wrap his arms around her neck, and kiss her temple. A smile came across her face as she briefly closed her eyes, rested her hands on his arms, & her heart melted at her husband's affections. "I really enjoyed that shower with you."

"So, did I. We will certainly have to make a habit of that."

"Yes." She gives him a smile and sweetly kisses his lips. "Yes, we will."

As Shane picked up the hairbrush again, Oliver gently grabbed her hand and smiled. "Please. Allow me."

Shane can't help but smile at Oliver's gesture as she lets him take over.

Oliver can't keep his eyes off his wife as he runs the brush gently through her blonde tresses. "Sweetheart, do you even know how much I love you?"

"You are too sweet & I certainly have a pretty good idea after those past 45 minutes. I love you so much more."

Oliver soon finished brushing her hair, placed a kiss on her cheek, then continued speaking. "Are you hungry?"

"Yes, I am. What about you?"

"I definitely am. What do you say, we order room service then call my dad to touch base?"

"That sounds wonderful. I know we also need to call Rita & Norman to let them know we made it to London."

"Yes, that is true. We did promise to give them a call when we arrived."

After finishing a wonderful lunch, they made their way over to the sofa to snuggle & make their phone calls first to Joe then Rita and Norman putting them on speaker.

Back in Denver, it was around 10 AM and Rita & Norman were just about to leave for church when she saw that Shane was calling. She smiled and answered by the second ring. "Hi, Shane!"

"Hey Rita! You're on speaker."

"Hi, Oliver! How are you guys doing?"

"We're doing great! Thank you for asking. How are you and Norman?"

"We are doing well too! Thank you. He wanted to say hi, so I put you on speaker too."

Shane & Oliver share a smile & speak in unison. "Hi, Norman!"

"Hi, Shane. Hi, Oliver! It's so great to hear from you!"

Shane responds to Norman's comment. "It's great hearing from you. We're sorry we're just now calling. We arrived so early this morning and with the time difference we weren't sure if you had already gone to bed."

Rita immediately speaks up. "It's completely ok. We understand. We're just glad you made it safely. Are you enjoying your time in London so far?"

Shane gives Oliver a loving look before answering Rita's question. "Yes. We haven't done much of anything yet due to the jet lag but it's been wonderful just being together."

"Oh, Shane! We're so thrilled to hear that. You both sound so happy."

"We certainly are." There was a brief moment of silence before Shane asks her question. "What are you guys up to?"

Rita responds cheerfully. "We are actually getting ready to leave for church. What about you?"

"We're just sitting here on the sofa about to watch a movie."

"Well, that sounds like fun! What movie?"

"Oliver has really been wanting me to see "Singin' in the Rain", so we'll be watching that."

"Oooh! I love that movie & I know you will too, Shane."

"I'm sure I will. I've heard it's great so I'm looking forward to seeing it."

"You'll have to let me know what you think next time we chat."

"I certainly will, Rita."

There was a brief pause in the conversation before Rita responds. "I wish we could talk longer but I probably should go so we can make it to church on time."

"That is completely understandable. Oliver & I will be doing our own Bible study later this evening. Have a wonderful time at church & a great afternoon."

"Thank you, Shane. Have a wonderful Bible study & a great evening. We love you both so much & can't wait to chat again soon."

"Thanks, Rita. We love you guys & can't wait either!"

Once Shane hung up the phone & placed it on the coffee table, she caught her husband's loving & prideful gaze making her smile. "What is it, Oliver?"

"You have just come so far in your faith, and I couldn't be prouder of you, my love."

"It's all because of you, darling. You helped lead me back to God & I couldn't be more thankful for that. He certainly knew my heart needed you."

"The same can be said for me. At a time when I was really struggling, you walked right into my life and changed everything no matter how hard I tried to fight it at first." Oliver keeps his loving gaze as he takes both her hands in his. "You are truly my divine delivery & greatest blessing."

"Oh Oliver. You're making me cry. That is one of the sweetest things you've ever said, and I thank God every day for giving me you, my divine delivery & my greatest blessing."

Oliver holds her face in his hands gently wiping her tears away . "My beautiful Shane." He goes back to holding her hands. "Words can't express just how much I love you."

"I love YOU! More than I'll ever be able to explain."

There was a brief moment of silence with just loving looks between them before Oliver speaks up. "What do you say we start that movie now?"

"That is perfectly alright with me. I'm excited to see it and snuggle with you."

"Of course. Holding you in my arms will be the best part."

The movie had already been playing for a while & was now on the part when Don Lockwood & Kathy Selden sing "You Were Meant For Me". While watching this beautiful scene, the newlyweds couldn't help but share some loving glances. Along with the loving glances came a few kisses from Oliver to Shane's forehead as he had his right arm wrapped protectively around her, holding her close which melted her heart into a puddle. Just when she thought she couldn't love him more, he proved her wrong & she smiled thinking to herself just how truly blessed she is.

Shortly after that came the moment when Don Lockwood & Cosmo Brown sang "Moses Supposes". As the scene progressed, Shane was surprised to see that this was another song from the movie that her husband knew by heart. Considering how cute he looked, she decided on waiting till the movie was over to ask him about his knowledge of the music. When it got to the scene of Don Lockwood, Kathy Selden, & Cosmo Brown singing "Good Morning", Shane just couldn't help herself as she joined Oliver in song which greatly but pleasantly surprised him. He couldn't wait to know her thoughts on the movie as a whole once it was over.

They were enjoying the movie so much that they weren't ready for it to end when the credits started rolling. With his arm still wrapped around his wife, he asks his question. "So, what did you think of the movie?"

"I loved it! Thank you so much for suggesting it. I'm so happy I finally got to see it!"

"It was my pleasure, and I am very happy you got to see it too. What was your favorite part?"

"That is such a hard question, but I'd have to say one of my favorite moments is the scene with Don & Kathy singing "You Were Meant For Me". It is romantic, the dancing is amazing, & the song makes me think of us."

Even though Oliver feels the same, he plays along. "Oh really?" He turns to look at Shane sweetly "Well, it will make you happy to know that it makes me think of us too. I know in my heart you were meant for me, and I was meant for you."

Shane can't help but smile as she gazes back. "I feel exactly the same way. You are the only man for me."

"And you are the only woman for me."

"Oliver, may I ask you a question?"

"Yes, you can ask me anything, Shane."

"Well, I didn't want to bring it up during the movie considering how much I loved seeing you singing but how do you know all of the music by heart?"

"That is a great question I will be happy to answer. When I was a teenager, my grandmother, Amelia introduced me to so many of the classic films including "Singin' in the Rain". Whenever I spent time at her house, we'd always try to watch a different one."

"That is amazing. I'm sure you two always had a wonderful time."

"We did. Once I moved away from home, I didn't get to spend as much time with her but our mutual love of classic films & things from the past is something we always bonded over."

"It's so great you were able to bond over that. I'm sure you miss her a lot."

"Yes. I miss both her & my grandfather, Chester every day but the memories & lessons I learned from them are some I'll always remember. They taught me so much and I looked up to them in so many ways. Their relationship and the love they had for each other was a true example of what a long lasting marriage should look like."

"It makes me so happy to hear you have such wonderful memories of your grandparents & that your old fashioned qualities are something you learned from them. It is one of the things I love most about you & I only wish I had gotten a chance to meet them. They sound like amazing people."

"I wish the same. They were the best grandparents & I have no doubt they would've loved you just as I do." He takes her left hand with his right. "Do you remember the night I proposed?" He runs his thumb along her engagement ring and gives her a warm smile. "When I gave you this engagement ring, I mentioned how it was my grandmother's & that she was the finest woman I ever knew until you."

Shane had a pretty good idea where Oliver was going with this but played along. "Yes, of course I do. That was one of the best nights of my life and hearing you say that brought tears to my eyes."

"It was one of mine as well and I want you to know that the woman I was referring to was my grandmother, Amelia."

"Thank you for sharing that with me." She briefly looks down admiring the ring then back up at her husband lovingly. "It's beautiful & I'm so honored to be the one who gets to wear it forever."

"My love, you're the most amazing woman & there is no one else that deserves to wear it more than you."

"I know you loved your grandparents but why don't you talk more about them?"

Trying to dodge the question politely, he quickly gives her an answer. "I guess they've just never really come up in conversation.

She gives him a pointed look while at the same time, speaking in a loving tone. "Oliver. I know you & can tell when there's something on your mind. You know you can always be honest with me, right?"

"Yes, of course I do and that means so much

"Good. I'm so glad to hear that."

"I'm sorry. I think I was just afraid to tell you the real reason."

She gives him a warm, loving smile "What for? There's absolutely nothing to be sorry about." She gently takes his left hand and runs her thumb along his ring finger while looking sweetly in his eyes. "There's no judgement at all & I am right here to listen if you want to share.

"Thank you." He takes a moment to gather his thoughts. "It's just hard to talk about them because of how much I miss them & because I've been afraid you might change your opinion of me if you saw me getting too emotional."

"Darling, nothing in this world will ever change how I feel and showing emotion is completely alright. In fact, that side of you is one of my favorite things." She takes her free hand not held by Oliver and rests it on his cheek. "I absolutely adore you for exactly who you are & there's no sweeter man on this planet that I want by my side forever more than you."

"Thank you for your reassurance. You always know just the right thing to say to lift my spirits and just when I think I couldn't love you more, you prove me wrong. You are my soulmate & I couldn't be prouder to be your husband. It is my greatest joy."

"My greatest joy is being your wife and you are without a doubt, my soulmate."

Unable to resist her husband, Shane gently grabs his face with both hands & pulls him in for a deep, loving kiss leaving him speechless.

"Wow! That was...quite a kiss."

Still holding his face in her hands, she responds. "Well, what can I say?" Rubbing her nose against his, she gives him an Eskimo kiss. "I just had to kiss you."

"I love your kisses, Shane." Seconds later, Oliver asks her a question. "Is there a way to play music on your phone?"

Shane smiles at his question, having a good idea about the reason he wanted to know. "Yes, there is. Why?"

"I'm asking because I want to share a dance with my insanely gorgeous wife."

"I would love to dance with my incredibly handsome husband, and I have the perfect song."

Music starts playing from Shane's phone to the tune of "From This Moment On" by Shania Twain & Oliver offers his hand which she happily takes in hers before being wrapped in his arms

Singing isn't something that Shane does regularly but, in this case, she couldn't resist expressing her feeling to her husband in this way. The song soon reached the bridge & the last chorus and with her arms wrapped around his neck, the loving affections continued as she played with the hair at the back of his head.

"You're the reason I believe in love

And you're the answer to my prayers from up above

All we need is just the two of us

My dreams came true because of you

From This moment, as long as I live

I will love you; I promise you this

There is nothing I wouldn't give

From this moment, I will love you

As long as I live, from this moment on."

With the last lyric was sung, Shane pulls Oliver in for a tender, loving kiss and before long, her eyes met his. "I know I may not have the best voice, but those words are exactly how I feel so I couldn't help but sing to you."

He gently takes her right hand and holds it against his heart. "My love. I have to disagree. It was perfect and there'll never be a day that goes by when I don't love hearing your sweet voice."

"It melts my heart to hear you say that. I will definitely try to do it more often."

"Please do. I would love that." There was a brief moment of silence & just by the look in Shane's eyes, Oliver could tell what is on her mind. "Would you like to keep dancing?"

Shane answers without hesitation. "Yes, I most certainly would."

The dancing continues for thirty more minutes, and they are soon sitting on the sofa once again. Shane leaned against Oliver's side with her left arm threaded through his right as they held hands with fingers intertwined.

"That was so much fun, Oliver. Dancing with you will never get old."

"I will never grow tired of dancing with you or hearing you sing." He takes a moment thinking of a question he wanted to ask. "Have you thought about joining the choir at church? I'd never pressure you to do anything you don't want to, but I think you'd make a wonderful addition to our group. You have a beautiful voice."

A warm smile comes across Shane's face at Oliver's thoughtfulness. "Thank you. I know you wouldn't & I appreciate that more than you know. You're the sweetest. To answer your question, I actually have thought about it. While I'm still fairly new in my faith, I would love to at some point as I believe it would be a great way to be involved in our wonderful church community."

Oliver can't help but smile at his wife's answer knowing just how far she's come already. "I'm so happy to hear that & agree with you wholeheartedly."

"I'm looking forward to joining at some point, possibly when we return to Denver?"

"That would be wonderful & I will help you do whatever it takes to make that happen."

"I have no doubt you will. The thing I'm most excited about in joining is getting to be part of it with you."

"My feelings are exactly the same. That will be the best part." Looking out the window, he realizes the sun is slowly setting. "Shane. What time is it?"

Picking up her phone, she looks at the time. "It's almost 8 PM. Should we go ahead and order dinner before we start our Bible study?"

"Yes. That would probably be best since room service ends at ten."

Two hours later, they had eaten dinner and were now just finishing their Bible study of Deuteronomy Chapter 34. Tomorrow they would be starting the Book of Joshua and they were very much looking forward to it.

Shane was now snuggled against Oliver's side with her legs slightly stretched across his lap. A smile came across her face as she spoke her next words. "That was such a wonderful Bible study. Reading the word together every day has truly become one of my new favorite things."

Oliver beams with pride from his wife's statement as he wraps both arms arm around her pulling her close. "You have no idea how happy that makes me. There was a time when I wasn't sure I'd ever hear those words & could only pray you'd find your faith again. Now look how far you've come." He tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear then goes back to holding her. "You're becoming the strong woman of God that He intended you to be, and I am so incredibly proud of you."

"I've said this before but it's all because of you, my dear so." She rests her right hand on his chest & gives him deep, loving look of gratitude. "THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for all you do. I wouldn't be the person I am today without you being the sweetest, most incredible, Godly man you are & I'm so proud to call you mine forever."

"Of course, sweetheart but I should be the one thanking you." He leans his nose against hers. "You've changed my life; made me a better man and I couldn't be more grateful God gave me you." He kissed her on the nose. "You are my entire world."

Shane's heart melts at his affection. "You are mine & I thank God every day for bringing you into my life." She gives him a smile, sweetly kisses his lips, and then leans her head on his shoulder. "It still feels like a dream that we're finally married and in London on our honeymoon."

Wanting to keep his wife close, his right arm remains wrapped around her & his left hand is now resting on her left leg. "That's exactly how it feels for me but I'm so happy it's not. We're really married & I couldn't be more excited to be here in London with you."

"I'm SO happy to be here with you! I have no doubt it's going to be an amazing 5 days!"

"It surely will. What's on our itinerary for tomorrow?"

"Well, I think there's no question that our first stop will be the British Postal Museum. After that, we can visit the Charles Dickens Museum, Natural History Museum, National Gallery & British Museum before coming back here to rest & recharge before dinner at The Summerhouse."

"A museum tour?! That sounds wonderful!"

A smile comes across Shane's face. "I guess you could call it that. I think it'll be great learning some history while we're here."

"I always enjoyed history when I was in school, so I completely agree."

After a moment of companionable silence, Shane speaks up. "Oliver, I just have to say thank you."

With a questioning look, he responds. "For what?"

"For suggesting we stay in on our first day here. It's been so wonderful just being in your arms."

"It was my pleasure. Holding you in my arms is my favorite thing in the world and if it were possible, I would do it every moment of every day."

"I know you would & that just melts my heart. There's never a day that goes by where I don't feel so safe in your arms."

"I'm happy to hear you say that because I'll always be so protective of you."

"And I, you."

He places a kiss to her forehead and looking out the sliding glass door of their room, he suddenly hears a yawn from his wife. "Shane, are you ready for bed? It is getting late, and we want to be well rested for our first day of activities here in London."

"That's very true. I'm ready whenever you are."

With their night routine complete. they slip into bed & lie face to face, immediately locking eyes.

Oliver reaches over & runs his left hand through her hair. "You are so beautiful, darling. I just can't get over it."

"Awe." Her right hand goes to his cheek. "I just can't get over how sweet & handsome you are." Noticing how Oliver was in thought, she repeats almost the same question she was asked earlier. "What's on your mind, dear?"

"I was just thinking about how excited I am to be exploring all the things London has to offer with my wife."

"I feel the same exact way. Is there anything else in particular you can't wait to see and do while we're here that we haven't already mentioned?"

"I'm looking forward to everything but if I had to choose only a few things, it would be visiting Westminster Palace & Buckingham Palace, attending the tea masterclass, touring the Globe Theatre, and taking a boat ride on the Thames River. What about you?"

"Those are great choices. For me, I'd have to say touring Windsor Castle, taking a walk through Kensington Palace Gardens, watching the sunrise from Primrose Hill, going for a ride on the London Eye and having afternoon tea at the Savoy but I'm looking forward to everything like you mentioned."

"All of that sounds amazing."

"It will be especially with you right by my side."

There was a brief moment of silence as Oliver thinks of a memory from not too long ago. "Do you remember our afternoon tea at the Brown Palace when we were looking for Jessica & Annaliese?"

Shane smiles at the memory. "Yes. How could I forget? That was the week Rita & Norman got married and I remember very clearly how you asked me if the Brown would cater for the Bachelor party."

They share a laugh as Oliver asks his next question. "Did I actually ask that?"

Shane smiles and nods. "You did but it's alright. As I later found out, you had never had or planned one before, so it all made sense."

"Seriously, Shane?!"

She is unsuccessful at hiding her laughter. "I'm sorry. I just couldn't resist."

"It's alright, Shane. I still love you."

"I know you do, and I love you. If I'm being honest, I was so glad to hear you had never been part of any special wedding traditions at that moment in time. It gave us the opportunity to experience them together."

"I'm very happy about that too. There's no one else I would have rather experienced those traditions with than you."

"My feelings are the same." Remembering something she wanted to tell Oliver, she continues. "Oh, There is something I wanted to tell you. I planned a photo shoot for us on Thursday at Westminster. I hope that's alright."

"Yes, it's perfectly alright. Even though I'm still getting used to showing affection in public, I couldn't be prouder for the world to know you're mine & I would do absolutely anything to make you happy."

"I have no doubt about that because you make me happy every day. I'm so proud you're mine and can't wait for the world to know it. I'm sure we'll have a great time."

"I agree. It will be wonderful to have some new photos together to frame & display around our home."

Shane can't help but smile as an image of them living under one roof comes to mind. "Our home. I love the sound of that."

"I do as well. I've lost count on the number of times I've dreamed of the day we'd be married & have a place to call our own. Now it's finally become a reality & I couldn't be happier."

"Awe, I echo your sentiments. I've dreamed of that day almost since we met & to know it's actually happened makes me extremely happy." There is a brief pause. "I just have one question."

"Anything, Shane."

Trying how to gently broach the subject as it hasn't been discussed, she takes a moment before continuing. "Are we going to purchase a new bed for our home because I don't particularly want us to have the same one you did with…"

Oliver immediately knows where Shane is going with this & interrupts politely. "Oh, my goodness. Sweetheart! I am so sorry! Yes, we absolutely will as I want no part of her in our home. She is my past & YOU." He takes her right hand in his left. "Are my forever."

She runs her thumb over his wedding ring. "And you are mine, darling. Please don't feel bad. It is not your fault."

"Thank you, Shane but I truly feel like it is. This should have been dealt with a long time ago and it wasn't. I feel like a horrible husband."

"Oliver, I'm going to stop you right there. You are the sweetest, most amazing man & husband I could ever ask for and I know you would never do anything to put me in an uncomfortable situation. If anyone is to blame, I say life for getting in the way because it can get busy, and things can slip our mind."

"That is very true & I never will. Thank you again for being so understanding, my love. You truly are an amazing woman & the best wife I could ask for." He leans in to give her a tender kiss on the lips. "I promise that is first thing we will do when we return to Denver."

"Of course. I'm not worried one bit as you are a man of your word."

"That I am." He changes the subject. "Did you know when you work on a computer your hands travel 20 kilometers a day?"

A surprised look comes across Shane's face & she can't help but chuckle. "Yes, I know. Where did you hear that?"

"I had been at the grocery store one day waiting to check out when I heard someone in line behind me mention it."

"That's cool you learned a fun fact about technology. Is everything alright though?"

Oliver looks at Shane quizzically. "Yes, why wouldn't everything be alright?"

"It just seems like a very random question especially at this hour. We don't want to be exhausted for our day tomorrow, do we?"

"No, we don't." Those were the only words Oliver could say at the moment and the room went silent.

It didn't take very long for Shane to figure out what she heard isn't the whole story. She speaks calmly and softly. "Is there something you're not telling me?"

"No, everything is fine." He felt guilty the second the words came out of his mouth and Shane noticed.

Once again, her tone up of voice was stern but calm yet filled with worry & compassion. "Please tell me what's on your heart. If you're not honest with me, I can't help you through whatever you may be feeling."

It took a moment before Oliver said anything. "I'm afraid to go to sleep so I brought up something to keep a conversation going."

"Is it because you're worried, you'll have another dream about losing me?"

He starts to get emotional. "Yes. You really do know me so well."

"I do. I can tell you're worried, but I promise I'll be right here to hold & comfort you if that happens. I'm not going anywhere."

"There's one more thing."

"I'm all ears."

Oliver takes a moment to sit up in bed and Shane follows his lead.

Feeling guilty, he shares what's truly on his mind. "I'm so sorry, Shane. Despite the promises made in the DLO and at the wedding, I still haven't gotten completely over my fear."

It came as no surprise to Shane that Oliver wasn't completely over his fears of abandonment but that didn't change anything. No matter how long it took, she was fully prepared to do whatever it took to convince him, she would be his forever.

Feeling the need to be closer to her husband, she climbs on his lap to face him, runs her hands through his hair & looks at him lovingly. "Oh, sweetheart. You do not have to apologize. You've been through so much & I don't blame you one bit. I know the future can be scary but we're together & that is all that matters. You have nothing to be afraid of." She holds her gaze & cradles his face in her hands as tears are falling from her eyes. "You are my world & I will never ever leave you."

With tears in his eyes, Oliver brings her left hand up to his lips briefly kissing it & looks at her with pure love. "Shane, thank you so much. You always know just what to say to calm my fears & you have no idea just how much those comforting words mean to me. I may have my moments but deep down, I know there is nothing to be afraid of. You are truly my rock."

"You're welcome, love. You are mine." She places her left hand in his hair and the right on his heart. "I promise your heart will always be safe with me & I know mine will always be safe with you. I trust you with my life."

"It certainly will & I trust you with mine."

"Do you remember the words we heard from Robin Walker just a few days ago?"

Oliver takes a moment to think back. "Being afraid to lose someone someday steals the joy of having them today."

"Yes, that's exactly what she said. What I took from that is if we worry too much about what's going to happen tomorrow, we won't be able to enjoy what we have right now."

"That is very true. I agree & promise I will do my best to follow that advice every day."

"I have no doubt you will. We have each other & that's the most important thing. Let's just enjoy every moment one day at a time."

"I would be completely alright with that." He places his right hand on her hip and uses his left to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.

It took five minutes before another word was spoken as they just silently enjoyed each other's presence with deep, loving gazes, affectionate touches, and passionate kisses.

By now, Shane's hands were on Oliver's bare chest and his hands were wrapped around her resting on the small of her back. "Have I mentioned how much I enjoy seeing your more affectionate side?"

"You have but I don't mind hearing it again. It was a side of me I hid away for so long & didn't know would ever see the light of day again but then you came along and completely changed that. I am now not one bit ashamed to be affectionate with my wife and let her know just how much she means to me."

"The same goes for me. I'm not at all ashamed to be affectionate with you, my sweet husband. I love you more than you'll ever know."

"I love you more than all the stars in the sky, my darling." He brings her left hand to his lips, kissing her ring finger. "Always have. Always will."