I Knew You Were Waiting for Me Part II

by vonanna22

Esse must challenge himself to trust God with the most important desire of his life.

9. Chapter 9

Author's Note: Warning, Warning! This is a Mega-Chapter it should have been two or three but it wasn't...sorry. I know people have said that 13 years is a long time to wait but... because this was a spiritual story too-Joseph had to wait 13 years for God's promise for him to come true, and David had to wait 13 years for God's promise to become King to come true to-and those were not easy years on any of them either; so I thought I would go with that number too. Besides I think God is teaching me a lesson about my own patience about things.

I hope you enjoy this chapter and I have a lot of music in it too so I have to give props to those creators as well. This chapter also has mature themes and actions so please read responsibly! Please forgive any mistakes I stayed up all night because my husband is in the hospital please keep Vaughan in your prayers for me if you would-I don't know what I would do without him. This chapter is dedicated to him.

Disclaimer: I do not own Glee or any of its characters. I also did not write the lyrics or the music for the following songs that are found in this fanfiction:

"Unchained Melody" by the Righteous Brothers

"I Knew You Were Waiting for Me" by Aretha Franklin and George Michael

"Just You and I" by Eddie Rabbit and Crystal Gayle

"Always and Forever" by Heatwave

"All of Me" by John Legend

"Endless Love (Instrumental)" by Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross

"Gentle" by Frederick

"Locked Out of Heaven" by Bruno Mars

"Tonight I Celebrate My Love for You" by Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson

"Juliette" by Vanessa Daou

"The Chase"by Meiko

And

"With You I'm Born Again" by Billy Preston and Syreeta

I Knew You Were Waiting for Me - Part II

Chapter 9

The photographer yelled out "That was awesome" as the two couples broke away from their kisses and began laughing. "Let's off to the ceremony." The photographer spoke again. "First, you and you follow me." Crystal remarked to the photographer and Rick "We'll make sure that everything is set up and then we will come and get you. Don't fall in love with each other while we're gone!" She said jokingly only to hear Mercedes and Sam each responding "Too late." She began to walk away and Rick purposefully grabbed onto her hand "I'd follow you anywhere." Rick whispered within earshot of her as he began walking along beside her. It caught Crystal off-guard and sent a shiver up her spine they all followed her out of the door and down the corridor of the hotel.

Sam and Mercedes sat next to each other on a makeshift stage alone in the room. The room was quiet as the two of them sat in the comfort and confidence of their love for each other. "Are you okay?" She asked. "You know that these are your last few minutes as an eligible bachelor; so if you're having second thoughts now is the time to speak up." She said jokingly while raising her eyes to meet his which had already been fixated on her. "Mercedes, I haven't been a bachelor in years, I feel like this day has just caught up to my heart-that's all." He spoke as he looked at her lovingly, then diverting his gaze. "I can't tell you how happy I am that you finally decided to marry me." He spoke as they were holding hands both of their heads lowered, and each looking at their intertwined fingers rather than directly at each other.

"Sam, I know you think that I just decided to marry you a few days ago, at your place, but that's not true." Mercedes said. "I had made up my mind six months ago; but I had my world tour and I was obligated to go-it was already scheduled; so I wanted to wait until I could see you again and see if you really still felt the same way about me."

"Why would you doubt?" Sam asked as he continued to slide his fingers up and down on hers, stroking her hand. Mercedes shrugged slightly. "I was two months shy of finishing my tour when I ran into Mike at an award ceremony in Spain, I was performing and he was a principle dancer and choreographer for the show's opening and closing numbers. We had dinner together after the show and he was catching me up on all that was going on in his life and he told me that he had seen you when you came to his wedding. It was then that he told me that he was going to send me a copy of his wedding video, from back in June, and he sent a video message to my phone within a few days."

Sam sat listening intently as he stroked the back of her hand with a finger from his left hand while he held on to her hand with his right. "Do you remember? It was from his wedding reception which you attended." Sam stared in off in the distance for a few moments trying to remember what could be on this video that she was speaking of, he remembered singing a song for Mike and his wife before they took the dancefloor for their first dance (at Mike's request). Sam thought a little harder when recognition and knowing invaded his face in the form of a blush. Sam closed his eyes and cringed "He didn't." was Sam's only response. Then Mercedes continued "He told me that I would find the wedding video very interesting, especially the last part, he wrote to me that even though it seemed liked it had ended to make sure that I watched a little longer. At first I thought it was because you had obviously had a "Blame it on the alcohol" moment because you were clearly wasted." She laughed.

Sam immediately took a defensive and rationalizing stance "I can explain, kind of….everyone was leaving messages on that video and it was in a separate room, the wedding reception had gone on for hours and I was drunk, and I'll admit….. (He paused) some-what jealous of their happiness….I thought the camera was off-I just went in there to be alone and…. It just sort of happened." Sam felt foolish. "I can't believe he sent it to you, I am going to kill Mike!" Sam used and aggravated tone. "Why? It was then, when I watched that video that became so excited because I knew that we were going get married; I believed it with all my heart; I will forever be grateful to Mike for that."

Mercedes released Sam's hand and reached into her clutch bag and pulled out her cell phone and loaded up a video of Sam; she held the phone in front of him so that he could see it. He was sitting on a stool, he was wearing a navy blue suit, a white shirt (which had now had the top two buttons unbuttoned) and navy blue tie which had been pulled loosely from its original knotting, he was holding a guitar in his hand. She pressed play and Sam's voice on the video began speaking.

"Mike's just gotten married…. (Sam sighed) and I am still waiting to get called up from the bench…." Sam said dejectedly then he took a swig from the beer that he had picked up from off of the small, round, wooden table next to him; then placed it down in the same place from which he had retrieved it. "How much longer do I have to wait Mercedes?" Sam glanced down at the guitar that he was holding on his lap. "It's been too long. You know that I'm waiting but this is not easy." He bemoaned and slowly shook his head from side to side; then Sam's head hung down for a few moments and his blonde hair dangled pointing towards the floor after his slurred declaration was spoken; it was then that Sam then started to play a "melody" on his guitar-an "unchained" one:

Sam awkwardly watched himself sing a haunted, heartfelt rendition.

Whoa… my love

My darlin'

I've hungered for your touch

A long, lonely time

And time goes by

So slowly

And time can do so much

Are you still mine?

I need your love

I….I….need your love

God-speed your love

To me

Lonely rivers flow to the sea,

To the sea

To the open arms of the sea

Lonely rivers sigh "Wait for me,

Wait for me

I'll be coming home wait for me"

Whoa….my love

My darlin'

I've hungered

HUNGERED

For your touch

A long, lonely time

And time goes by

So slowly

And time can do so much

Are you still mine?

I need your love

I…I…need your love

God-speed your love

To me

Sam stopped singing and playing but then spoke once again in a resigned tone.

"Good-night Mercedes, wherever you are, I'll love you always."

He chuckled to himself in the way that one recognizes the futility of a situation, and yet does not dare to give up hope of a better outcome. He placed the guitar down on the side of the stool and got up and left the room.

Mercedes stopped the video and Sam was motionless, his embarrassment on full display.

"I wanted to answer your question." Mercedes stated. Sam was so inwardly flustered that he didn't even know what question that she was talking about and he hadn't dared look her in the face yet. Mercedes curved her pointer finger under Sam's chin and moved his face to look at hers before she spoke again. "Yes, I'm yours." She said in reference to a line in the song. "You're mine?" he reiterated then he lunged forward and began kissing her again.

"Everything is perfect and the photographer is helping to cue the music right now, let's go!" Crystal stated as she and Rick re-entered the room only to find Sam and Mercedes in their embrace.

"Damn, Esse can we get to the ceremony?" Rick laughed then he started again "The obsession…." "IS REAL" Sam interrupted Rick by speaking up himself and finishing his sentence, as he was still staring at Mercedes and his lopsided grin overtook his face again.

Mercedes held on firmly to Sam's hand as she stood up and pulled Sam towards a standing position. "I'm quite obsessed with you too." She said. Mercedes placed her clutch under her arm clapped her hands together and said "Let's do this!" She continued as Mercedes walked determinedly out of the door first then they all walked out after her. The long corridor with the dim lighting and antique furniture which lined the walls made Mercedes desire to remember every single detail, this was so exciting, frightening, intense, surreal, and yet happiest day of her entire life. Sam caught up to her reached down and held onto her hand "Are you nervous?" Sam lowered his head a little and spoke into her ear, his voice was deep and his swag was heavy. "God, did she love that man." She thought. She lowered her eyes to their hands that were intertwined and then she looked up into his eyes "No, I'm not nervous, well maybe about tonight, but—I'm happy; I cannot wait to become your wife-I have never been so sure of anything in my entire life." Mercedes responded as she squeezed his hand.

Sam smiled widely "I just want to tell you that you look absolutely stunning, you have truly taken my breath away." He nuzzled his face in her hairline as he spoke while they continued to walk down the hall. "By the way…" Sam continued to whisper in her ear "don't be nervous about tonight, I've taken care of everything." He then gently stroked the bare arm of the hand he was holding with his other free hand.

"MERCEDES, MERCEDES, is that you?" A voice called out from down the hallway. Mercedes and all the others from the group turned around to where the sound had hailed from and once recognized Crystal screamed a quick but piercing scream.

Sam and Rick quickly looked at a trembling Crystal while Mercedes spoke to the individual who had called her name. "John?" Mercedes had a look of surprise on her face. "What are you doing here?" She asked as she let go of Sam's hand and walked over and hugged the man whose arms where outstretched. "Hey lady…." He spoke in a very comfortable and familiar tone which implied to all that they have shared a close bond. Crystal had begun slightly hyperventilating as the man smiles and steps into a hug with Mercedes.

Rick watches Crystal and his jealousy is sparked immediately; so was Sam's jealousy until he got a clear view of the gentleman in question, when Mercedes released the man from the hug she said to him. "I'd like to introduce you to my fiancé Sam Evans (She again took Sam's hand and pulled him close to her and the man) Sam, this is John Legend although I am sure that you already knew that." She giggled as they shook hands.

"Fiancé, huh, nice to meet you, you are a very lucky man. They don't make'em like Mercedes anymore." John said. "That is why I'll be forever grateful that she's mine." Sam responded never taking his eyes from John's eyes. "And, this is (Mercedes pivoted toward her side to reveal the people who were, at this vantage point standing behind her) Crystal Waters & Rick Raven." Crystal trembled even harder as John reached out and took her hand "I'm a big fan Mr. Legend." She tried to get out in a composed manner. "Well thank you very much." John said with a gracious smile as Crystal continued to hold onto his hand. "This is one of the hands that you play the piano with." She said giddily. "Why yes, yes it is." John continued the conversation.

Rick took both of his hands and separated John's and Crystal's hands from one another. "YEAH BABE, and this is the same hand I hold a football in too-it's mine." Rick spoke in a manner that portrayed that he did not find her actions amusing. "Hi, I'm the Quarterback for the Falcon's-Rick Raven-I'm Crystal's man." Rick's tone was confident and yet slightly aggressive as he firmly gripped John's hand "How's your wife?" Rick asked loud enough for Crystal to hear. "She's great, thanks for asking, great game the other day." John spoke as he dismissed Rick and began speaking again to Mercedes.

"So beautiful, what are you doing here? Do you have a gig here on the strip?" John said excitedly. "No, you have actually caught me on my wedding day-we are off to the venue right now." She smiled. "Hey lady, that is great news-Congratulations to you both; I'm just taking a break, I'm performing here tonight and I was rehearsing in the other conference room, you know how it is to clear my head and become inspired a little." "Would you like to come with us to the wedding?" Crystal said excitedly, "We could use someone to walk Mercedes down the aisle? I would love to know that your next great love song was inspired by a wedding that I arranged." Crystal grinned and grinned. Rick looked at Crystal like she was crazy and Sam couldn't help but chuckle at Rick's mounting dilemma.

"Yes John, how about you giving me away?" Mercedes said as she looked at Sam who merely shrugged his shoulders. "I would love that honor…although if this were an alternate universe I would never give you away." John stated smiling at Mercedes. "Yeah, well it's this universe and I'll never give her away either." Sam spoke up as he turned and began pulling Mercedes with him back down the hall. "Crystal, Crystal" Rick called to wake her from her daze. "I bought your last album the day it came out on iTunes!" Crystal managed to have the words escape her lips. "You and a lot of other people Teddy, let's go." Rick took her hand and turned her in the right direction and began walking her again down the hall.

As they continued walking John spoke again "I'll send Mercedes a signed advanced copy of my next album to give to you—how's that?" Crystal started giggling uncontrollably. Sam continued to laugh at Rick's struggle at this moment. "How about I give you a signed football Crystal?" Rick's words finally caught Crystal's attention and she calmed down and whispered "That would be nice."

They walked up to the back entranceway and Crystal told John and Mercedes to wait here for her signal. Rick, Crystal and Sam walked through the door to take their places but not before Sam said to Mercedes "I'll be waiting on the other side- so don't keeping waiting a long time." "I've kept you waiting long enough." She kissed his cheek and he smiled as walked through the door.

The path they took led them to a cobblestoned area which leads to a grotto, complete with trickling water pouring down the inner walls, empting into a floral bed of aromatic opulence. Within stood a veiled and floral decorated gazebo (red and white roses) and red and white rose petals were strewn all over the cobblestone leading up to the gazebo itself.

The minister had already been positioned in the center of the gazebo and he beckoned for the groom to take his place beside him and he best man to follow as well, when Sam and Rick had taken their places.

Crystal walked over to the entranceway again and handed Mercedes a floral arrangement that had been seated on a small divan near the door. Crystal opened the doorway and anchored the doors in an opened position. John took Mercedes arm and they could be seen clearly from Sam's position in the gazebo as they stood waiting for their musical cue. The photographer started taking pictures from several different vantage points.

Crystal nodded to a staff member of the hotel and the first song began. It was "I Knew You Were Waiting for Me" by Aretha Franklin and George Michael.

Aretha sings: [Mercedes began mouthing the lyrics to Sam as she waited there]

Like a warrior that fights and wins the battle

I know the taste of victory

Though I went through some nights

Consumed by the shadows

I was crippled emotionally

George sings: [Sam following her lead began mouthing the lyrics to Mercedes in turn as he rocked softly to the beat of the music]

Mmmmm, somehow I made it through the heartache

Yes I did, I escaped

I found my way out of the darkness

I kept my faith (I know you did)

Kept my faith

Both together:

When the river was deep

I didn't falter

When the mountain was high
I still believed….

When the valley was low it didn't stop me (no no)

I knew you were waiting….knew you were waiting for me

Uh huh….

Aretha sings:

With and endless desire I kept on searching

Sure in time our eyes would meet

Like a bridge is on fire the hurt is over,

One touch and you set me free

George sings:

No, I don't regret a single moment

No I don't looking back, huh

When I think of all those disappointments

I just laugh (I know you do)

I just laugh

Both together:

When the river was deep

I didn't falter [Sam shook his head at her]

When the mountain was high

I still believed

When the valley was low

It didn't stop me (ahhhh)

I knew you were waiting (ahhhh)….knew you were waiting for me.

So we were drawn together through destiny

Oh boy (Ooooh)

I know this love we share

Was meant to be (OOOO) (ohhh) [Sam shared a serious expression as he mouthed this lyric]

Knew you were waiting (Whooo huh)

Knew you were waiting….. (I knew you were waiting….)

Knew you were waiting for me

(I didn't falter) I didn't falter Lord

(I still believed) When the valley was low

(It didn't stop me) And nothing can stop me No!

(Knew you were waiting…. (No way, no how)…Knew you were waiting…for me)

I didn't falter [Mercedes put her hand over her heart] {Crystal began to tear}

When the mountain was high

(I still believed)

Ooooo, when the valley was low

(It didn't stop me)

No it didn't stop me no

Knew you were waiting

Someday,

Knew you were waiting for me

Yeah (Aaahhhhh) [Sam pretended to sing this verse] {Rick watched Esse in total awe}

(I didn't falter)

(Ahhhh yeah) [Mercedes just laughed at him]

(I still believed)

Oh I still believed

(It didn't stop me)

Do you know it couldn't stop me (No!) [Mercedes mouthed with emphasis]

Knew you were waiting….

Someday…..

Someway…..

Someplace…

Somehow….

For me.

I didn't falter (When the valley was low)

(Well, I still believed)

And I still believed

(I believed, I believed)

(It didn't stop me)

And nothing could stop me

Knew you were waiting for me

The music fades and the hotel employee begins the next song "Just you and I" By Eddie Rabbit and Crystal Gayle"

Crystal begins walking to the gazebo during the extended musical introduction and John and Mercedes begin walking as the vocals begin.

Eddie and (Crystal) sings:

Just you and I

Sharing our love together

And I know in time

We'll build the dreams we treasure [Sam can't take his eyes off of Mercedes approaching him]

We'll be alright

Just you and I

Just you and I

(Just you and I)

Sharing our love together {Crystal reaches her destination}

And I know in time

(And I know in time)

We'll build the dreams we treasure

We'll be alright

Just you and I

And I remember our first embrace

That smile that was on your face

The promises that we made….ooooo

And now your love is my reward

And I love you even more than I ever did before

Just you and I

(Just you and I)

We care and trust each other

With you in my life

(With you in my life)

There'll never be another

We'll be alright

Just you and I

And I remember our first embrace {John walks her to the podium kisses her hand and steps away}

That smile that was on your face

The promises that we made…oooo

And now your love is my reward [Mercedes is now standing across from Sam]

And I love you even more

Than I ever did before

[They stared deeply into each other's eyes as they reach out and take hold of each other's hand]

We made it…. you and I

The music fades.

The minister begins to speak.

"Dearly beloved…we have gathered here in the sight of God and man to proclaim the undying love of two lost souls who have found each other and will now become one. It is the will of God that man is not alone and the scripture says that he who has found a wife has found a good thing and has obtained favor from the Lord. As we stand here today basking in God's favor which has rained down on Sam Evans and Mercedes Jones we ask that you celebrate their life, the birth of their love, the consistency of their hope, the joy their union, the conception of their dreams, and the spring of their destiny as we watch them recite their vows to one another and promise to help to make each other's dreams come true. Sam…."

"Mercedes, you have been the love of my life for so long that I cannot believe that it has taken this day so long to get here; but it is here, and I am cherishing it as much as I promise to cherish you, in my heart and in my arms. You have made me become a better man, and you have taught me how to be a righteous man as well. I love you so much and I never, ever want to be without you again. I promise to love you and protect you, to honor, and to keep you, in sickness, and in health, and I most assuredly promise to forsake all others for the sake of our marriage, our trust, and our love…In Jesus' name -Amen." Sam concluded.

"Mercedes…" The minister spoke again.

"Sam you are my first love, my overwhelming love, my most precious distraction, my most supportive friend, and my greatest love in every sense of the word. I have never understood God's love for me in its entirety until I saw it reflected in your character towards me. I never, ever plan to be without you and I desire everyone to know that you and only you are my truest of happy endings; I thank God for you, your patience, and your love towards me and Sam I promise to love you and protect you, to honor, and to keep you, in sickness and in health, and I most assuredly promise to forsake all others for the sake of our marriage, our trust, and our love….In Jesus's name-Amen." Mercedes concluded.

"May I have the rings please?" The minister asked and Rick reached into his pockets and pulled out two gold bands and provided them to the minister who said a prayer over them and blessed them; then he gave Sam and Mercedes each a ring.

"Sam Michael Evans, do you take Mercedes Juliette Jones as your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward until death do you part?" The minister questioned.

"I Sam Michael Evans do take Mercedes Juliette Jones as my lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold from this day forward until death do us part." Sam spoke as he slipped the ring onto Mercedes' finger.

"Mercedes Juliette Jones, do you take Sam Michael Evans as your lawful wedded wife to have and to hold from this day forward until death do you part?" The minister questioned again.

"I Mercedes Juliette Jones do take Sam Michael Evans as my lawfully wedded husband to have and to hold from this day forward in until death do us part." Mercedes spoke as she slipped the ring onto Sam's finger.

Crystal's tears began flowing more consistently and Rick patted Sam on the back.

"Now by the powers vested in me by God and the State of Nevada I now pronounce you Mr. & Mrs. Sam Evans-husband and wife; you may now kiss your bride." The minister concluded.

The music began again…

"With pleasure" was Sam's response as his lopsided grin appeared and he stepped forward, pulled Mercedes into an embrace kissed her and dipped her backwards as he did so sweeping her right off of one of high heeled shoes, as well as sweeping her off her feet.

Always and forever

Each moment with you

Is just like a dream to me

That somehow came true

And I know tomorrow

Will still be the same

[Sam lifts Mercedes back to an upright position and everyone continues clapping]

Cause we've got a life of love

That won't ever change

Everyone begins clapping but Rick is keenly aware of the fact that John is now whispering in Crystal's ear. Rick watched as John's hand held onto Crystal; right under her elbow, Rick could recognize her slight tremble and blush, and how she slightly turned towards him which had her standing slightly Pidgeon-toed as she smiled and nodded her head.

And every day love me your own

Special way

Melt all my heart away

With a smile

Take time to tell me

You really care

And we'll share tomorrow

Together

I'll always love you forever

There'll always be sunshine

When I look at you

Something I can't explain

Just the things you do…and

If you get lonely

Phone me and take

A second to give to me

That magic you make and…

Every day

Love me your own special way

Melt all my heart away

With a smile

Rick grabbed onto the small football that he held in his pocket or else he was going to cold-cock John Legend during Esse's wedding. John went back inside and Crystal moved toward Mercedes and gave her a big hug.

Take time to tell me

You really care

And we'll share tomorrow

Together

I'll always love you

Ever, ever

Loving you

Is a thing that I planned

For a very long time

All-ways forever loving you

Sam turned around to face Rick the smile on Esse's face was infectious but in that moment Rick saw the glint in Esse's eyes and new exactly what it meant Rick pulled his hand out of his pocket as Sam and Rick simultaneously broadly flapped their arms up and down three times, extended their taught arms and pretended to soar, laughing wholeheartedly Rick and Sam both jumped into the air and chest bumped each other before landing with hearty laughs, handshakes, and hugs.

Me n' you, you n' me

We as one

Love together

Always forever love you,

For a very long time

Loving you

Always forever love you

Always forever love you

Youuuuuuuu

Always forever love you

For… ev… AAAHHHHH yeah yeah

Always forever love you

For… ev….AaAahhhhh eva' eva'

Always forever love you

Sam walked back over and grabbed Mercedes from behind and pulled her body close to his as he wrapped his arms around her waist and squeezed her tightly out of pure joy. Rick walked over to Crystal and took a hold of her hand which she dropped and instead gave him a tight hug as well; which he gladly returned.

Foreva' foreva loving you

Always forever love you

Forever love you

Forever love you, love you

Ever…. and a day

And one day

Loving you

Always forever love you

You, you, you, you

Forever

Always forever love you

Ever and a day

Ever and a day

Always forever love you

Forever and a day

Always forever love you

You loving you,

Forever

Always forever love you, you, you

Forever

The music fades.

"John said for us to stop by the conference room he wants to buy the happy couple champagne for a toast." Crystal said as she watched the photographer take several pictures of Sam and Mercedes near the gazebo and with the trickling water behind them at the grotto. Crystal and Rick had their pictures taken as well along the grotto walls and next to the bride and groom. After about another hour had past the newly married couple arrived at the conference room, in which, John had been rehearsing.

Champagne was poured out into glasses sitting on the buffet table and a small wedding cake that Sam and Mercedes had fun cutting and feeding it to each other. When they all finished eating it they all picked up a glass and Rick began the toast. "I would like for everyone to toast with me an amazing couple, they were challenged by distance, they were challenged by time, and sometimes challenged by discouragement, and sadness; but despite all of that they held on to their love and their faith and came out victorious because of it. I am pleased and proud to present 'A love of a lifetime' starring Mr. & Mrs. Sam Evans. Congratulations and always and forever the best for a loving and happy marriage, cheers." "Cheers" was the reply from everyone in the room as they raised their glasses higher, tapped them together and drank a sip together.

John then stepped up on stage and made an announcement. "I am so blessed to have been able to share this moment with you and I would like to thank you lady for your graciousness as this is your well-deserved day. I would like to play a song for your very first dance together as husband and wife; many, many years of wedded bliss."

John moved to the piano and sat down and began to play.

Sam took Mercedes hand and led her to the dance floor where they began to slow dance with each other.

What would I do without your smart mouth?

Drawing me in and you kicking me out

You've got my head spinning, no kiddin'

I can't pin you down

What's going on in that beautiful mind? [Rick is watching Crystal although she is unaware]

I'm on your magical mystery ride

And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me [Crystal is staring at John as he sings and plays the piano]

But I'll be alright

My head's underwater…

But I'm breathing fine.

You're crazy, and I'm out of my mind [Mercedes points into Sam's chest and then to her own]

Cause all of me loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

(Rick walks closer to Crystal and places his arm around her back and pulls her close to him at her waist)

All your perfect imperfections

Give your all to me [Sam whispers in her ear "I can't wait"]

I'll give my all to you [Mercedes whispers back "Neither can I"]

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose I'm winning

Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you, oh

[Rick forcefully pulls Crystal to face him but he doesn't speak he only stares into her eyes]

How many times do I have to tell you?

Even when you're crying you're beautiful too.

The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood

You're my downfall, you're my muse, my worst distraction,

My rhythm and blues.

I can't stop singing it's ringing in my head for you.

My head's underwater but I'm breathing fine.

You're crazy and I'm out of my mind

Cause all of me loves all of you

[Crystal feels uncomfortable under the weight of Rick's stare and tries to look away but he won't let her. Everywhere she turns her face he is there.]

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you, oh

Give me all of you

Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts

[Mercedes cuddles up closer to Sam and rests her head on Sam's chest grateful for his heart beating]

["I know what you're doing" Rick stated "You're attempting the safe route; aren't you? But, I'm not going to allow that." Rick continued.]

Risking it all, though it's hard [Crystal seemed terrified at what he was going to say next]

["So don't bother Crystal, I want you to understand me right now, I'm already in love with you." Rick confessed.]

Cause all of me [Sam kisses Mercedes on her forehead as they cling to each other on the dance floor]

Loves all of you ["Did you hear me? I am already in love with you Crystal" Rick spoke again bluntly.]

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections

[Sam began walking backwards away from Mercedes and as his arms extended she then took his lead and began walking forwards towards him as he led her off of the dancefloor and leading Mercedes out of the conference room entirely; then Sam nodded towards Rick and Crystal (a sign of good night) then he turned around and took Mercedes arm and walked out the door; not to be seen again for at least another five more days.]

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

[Crystal had never heard a man utter those words towards her in her entire life]

Even when I lose I'm winning

Cause I give you all, all of me ["Marry me tonight." Rick spoke again]

And you give me all, all of you,

["I know that I am naïve to you and that I have some crazy romantic notions but Rick stop teasing me." She said sadly and turned her face away again. "You don't want to marry me". Crystal spoke again.]

[Rick pulled a piece of paper from his inner jacket pocket. "Then why did I register for this marriage license?"]

I give you all, all of me

And you give me all, all of you, oh

John stopped playing but Crystal hadn't noticed because she felt that her heart had stopped as well.

XXXXX

Sam opened the room door with the swipe of a key card and allowed Mercedes to enter into the room first. The room was dark except for the flickering candlelight from several candles that illuminated tiny areas of the room; near the bedside, on the table by the window and on top of the dresser where a chilled bottle of Champagne was sitting in an ice bucket alongside two flute glasses, a bowl of strawberries, and rose petals sprinkled around; some candles were lavender in color while others were a light shade of rose and the candles gave off a scent of vanilla throughout the room.

"Sam, this is amazing." Mercedes had turned around to look at Sam who had closed the door behind him and was now leaning his back against it. "You're the type of woman who deserves amazing." Sam said while behind his back, his hands were at work removing the "Do not disturb" sign from the doorknob as he opened the door again partially and slipped it on the doorknob on the outside of the door instead; then he closed and locked the door.

Mercedes closed her eyes and took in the scent and the warmth of the room. "Mercedes, I need to tell you something." Sam said as he walked her to the edge of the bed and had her sit down with him there. "What is it?" She questioned as she reached for his hand. Sam couldn't take his eyes off of her beautiful brown eyes as the candlelight within the room flickered across them. "I know how long that you have waited for this night and I want you to know that I am going to do everything I can to make it memorable, special, and worthy of your waiting." Sam placed on hand on her cheek and stroked it with his thumb lightly as he spoke. "I remember what you said when we were in New York together. You told me then that you wanted the man you slept with to be your husband, to be there for you forever, and you wanted him to open up to you in the same way too; you also told me that you could not do that with just anyone." Mercedes watched Sam as she took in all that he was saying to her. "Mercedes, I told you then that 'I was not just anyone' so I want you to look at me now as the man who is your husband, the man who will be with you for as long as forever will last, I want you to see me as a place of safety for you, I need for you to see the truth that I am a man who adores and loves you, and that I am opening up myself to you in a way too that has never happened to me before with anyone else on this planet. Now, I know that I can't share your status of us losing our virginity together tonight with each other, but I want you to know that, you will be my first when it comes to making love within holiness and the confines of what God sees as the proper thing to do, and I want that with you. I love you Mercedes and I am going to do everything that I can tonight to prove to you that the decision that you made so long ago was the right one. I want you to know that we are not just having sex tonight but that I am going to spend this entire evening, and any and all evenings you allow after that-truly making love to you." Sam concluded.

Mercedes felt her heart swell with love and gratitude for the promise that Sam had just provided her "How could he be just so perfect?" She wondered as her eyes slightly glistened from the moisture that was building there, they were betraying her, telling her secret of how emotional she was in her heart at this very moment. Sam then took his hand away from her face picked up her hand from her lap and then kissed it. Sam walked over to the wall where the imbedded speaker system was and turned on the musical playlist that he had created earlier in the day. He had chosen an instrumental version of "Endless Love" originally sung by Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross. "May I have this dance, Mrs. Evans?" He asked. "I'd love to." Mercedes smiled.

Sam took her hand and pulled her to a standing position and took her into his arms and began stepping and swaying from side to side. As Mercedes continued the dancing Mercedes spoke to him "Sam, I don't want this night to end, I want to spend my life in your arms. I can't see myself living without you." "You won't ever have too." Sam spoke as they continued to cherish their happiness, and this time of togetherness.

When the song came to a close the next song that they danced to was "Gentle" By Frederick.

Sometimes in the night I call your name

Then I catch myself from falling

Where there is love sometimes there's pain

Still my love is growing so-please be gentle

Please be gentle when you're loving me

I'll be gentle [Sam crosses his heart]

I'm in a daze, I'm so confused

Since you have stopped running

I'll take my time I'll wait for you

Cause I know you'll be coming

I'll be gentle,

Baby I'm gonna to be gentle when I'm loving you

When I'm loving you

When I'm loving you

Holding you

Wanting to please you [Mercedes begins kissing Sam]

When you're lying next to me

Baby girl, you've got me calling your name baby

I'll be gentle

Please be very gentle

When I'm loving you, when I'm loving you

When I'm loving you

Holding you

Wanting to please you

When you're lying next to me

Baby, you've got me calling, calling out your name

Hey…

You, you, you, you, you, you've got me…

Calling… calling…calling your name

Baby, you've got me…

Calling…

Down on my bended knees (calling… calling your name)

And I'm calling your name (calling…calling, calling your name)

Calling… calling…calling your name

[Sam tried to catch his breath as he broke away from the kiss and said "Oh, Mercy" into her ear as he snuggled her even closer "I swear I'll never let you go again" He held her face and kissed her again]

Calling….calling…calling your whole name

I don't ever want to stop loving you girl

So don't you ever stop being in my world

I'm in a daze I'm so confused since you have stopped running

I'll take my time; I'll wait for you…

Cause I know you'll be coming

I'll be gentle

Baby I'm gonna be gentle when I'm loving you

When I'm loving you

When I'm loving you

Holding you

Wanting to please you [Mercedes hands gripped Sam's forearms and to his clenching biceps.]

When you're lying next to me

Baby girl, you've got me calling your name, baby

I'll be gentle

Please be very gentle

When I'm loving you,

When I'm loving you

I don't ever want to stop loving you girl

So don't you ever stop being in my world

I don't ever want to quit loving you boy

So don't you ever stop giving me joy

I don't ever want to stop…

(I don't ever want to quit…)

Loving you girl

(Loving you…)

So don't you ever stop…

Don't you ever stop…

Being in my world

Giving me joy.

I don't ever want to stop…

(I don't ever want to quit…)

Loving you girl

(Loving you….)

So don't you ever stop…

Don't you ever stop…

Being in my world

Don't you ever stop giving me joy

I don't ever want to stop loving you girl

So don't you ever stop being in my world

I don't ever want to stop loving you girl

So don't you ever stop being in my world

After they completed their dancing Sam walked over and opened the bottle of champagne and poured some into their glasses, dropped a strawberry into Mercedes' glass and brought the glass to Mercedes. "I want you to relax and I would like it very much if you would allow me to give you a massage; think of this as your personal spa treatment; Champagne my lady." Bruno Mar's "Locked out of Heaven" began to play Sam smiled and handed her the glass the tapped them together and took a sip. Then Sam walked over to his suitcase and retrieved a smaller bag from inside. Mercedes' eyes followed him as he stepped into the bathroom and came out with a small hand towel and one large black towel.

Bruno sings:

But swimming in your world is something spiritual; I'm born again every time you spend the night….

Mercedes took another sip the champagne continued to tickle Mercedes noise as she drank as she took her seat back on the edge of the bed her crossed leg bouncing with the music. "I think that a massage sounds wonderful." She smiled while retrieving the strawberry from her glass and taking a bite. Mercedes eyes rolled backwards, "Oh, this tastes so good." She remarked.

"Strawberry it is then." Sam took off his suit jacket, loosened his tie and removed it; then he unbuttoned his shirt. Mercedes had to admit that her husband's body was a wonder to behold. He took off his shoes and socks, but it was when he took off his pants, that's when the room started feeling hot for Mercedes. Sam stood, in only his rather clinging boxer briefs, and Mercedes could feel her insides begin to tremble.

Bruno sings:

You bring me to my knees you make me testify, you can make a sinner change his ways

Open up your gate cause I can't wait to see the light, and right there is where I wanna stay…

Sam then knelt down putting his weight on his legs in front of her with the small bag and smaller towel and removed her high-heeled shoes from her feet. Sam poured some of the oil into his palm and rubbed them together which made the oil heat up and he began rubbing it along the base of her foot and along her ankles, and heels. He used his thumbs to caress the oil deeply into her skin as he slid his hand up her leg and began massaging her calf. The strength but gentleness of his hands, the heat of the oil, and the slow ascent up behind her knees made Mercedes feel things she had never even taken into consideration. Sam began sliding his hand down from behind her knee back down to her calf in long deliberate strokes.

Sam then reapplied the oil and applied it to her other leg. Mercedes wanted to say something but she couldn't as she watched him linger at the top of her knees then he leaned forward and kissed them. Sam then wiped his hand on the small towel beside him and reached up and slid his hands slowly up the sides of her dress exposing more of her thighs.

He reapplied the oil and rubbed it furiously in his hand and stroked the top of each of her thighs at the same time as he now lifted himself up onto his knees which made him taller, his hands extended further up under her dress and he leaned forward and began kissing her as he continued his stroking motion. His large palms and long fingers began a circular motion moving from the inner knee area along the length of her thigh and then surrounding her thigh to her outer hip. Mercedes breath caught with each deep caress and she felt herself become moist in her underwear; which really didn't seem to matter much since she would not be in them much longer as she felt Sam's hands slide snuggly under her dress at her hip and begin to tug on her panties at her waistline and begin to pull them down. She inadvertently felt her body spasm at her midsection but she had reflexively leaned back, she arched her back, and lifted her hips to give him full access without having even consciously made the decision to do so.

Bruno sings:

Cause you make me feel like I've been locked out of heaven for too long, for too long

Yeah, you make me feel like I've been locked out of heaven for too long.

Sam began kissing and licking her thigh reveling in its strawberry flavoring. Sam slid off her panties down her legs and helped remove them from each leg then discarded them onto the floor. Mercedes was now lying back on the bed unable to see anything but the ceiling above her head. She could hear Sam's movements and breathing but he was no longer touching her and she didn't know what to do. She could not believe how tight her dress was feeling at her back because she had begun sweating through it.

Suddenly she felt Sam's hand reach out and grab onto one of her hands which had been extended down the length of her body on the bed beside her. Sam pulled her back up to a sitting position she looked him in the face as he took his other hand and moved her hair to the other side of her body, he leaned his head over her shoulder his face near to her neck and began to unzip her dress down its back; he also unbuckled her bra as well. He pulled at the front of her dress and pulled each sleeve down and freed her arms from them; he also freed her arms from her bra straps as well. "What that man can do from a kneeling position is incredible." She thought. Sam had Mercedes stand up by lifting her up by her waist and then he dragged her dress down her body until it rested on the floor by her feet. Mercedes felt a cold chill as she watched Sam stare at her nude body standing erectly in front of him.

Sam's eyes scanned every inch of her body and Mercedes felt her eyes close in slight panic. The room had felt small at that moment and her mind was yelling at her that he was looking too long—staring too hard the voices in her head had to stop once Sam finally spoke. "I'm sorry, I know it's rude to stare but, I have imagined this moment for so long, but I never imagined properly….you are simply exquisite." Sam lunged forward and wrapped his arms around the small of her back and pulled his face into her stomach, his hair tickling her as he rubbed his stubbled chin around her stomach. "I love you so much Mercy-no Juliette you truly are my Juliette." Mercedes ran her fingers through his hair as he began kissing her warm sensuous flesh.

Bruno sings:

Can I just stay here? Spend the rest of my days here?

Oh oh oh oh yeah yeah yeah

Can I just stay here? Spend the rest of my days here?

Cause you make me feel like I've been locked out of heaven for too long.

Yeah you make feel like I've been locked out of heaven for too long.

Sam dragged his hands down over her ambled buttocks and palmed them in his large hands as the song on the playlist changed to "Tonight I Celebrate My Love for You" by Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack.

Sam stood up and helped Mercedes to lie down onto the bed once more. Sam removed his briefs and the amazing sight, of Sam's erect penis, infused fear and delight into Mercedes. He poured the massage oil his hands again and began rubbing it along her shoulders and her arms as he was lying on his side beside, and yet, over her on the bed.

Roberta and Peabo sing:

Tonight I celebrate my love for you

It seems the natural thing to do

Tonight no one's going to find us

We'll leave the world behind us

When I make love to you

Tonight I celebrate my love for you

And hope that deep inside you'll feel it too.

Tonight our spirits will be climbing to a sky lit up with diamonds

When I make love to you….tonight

Tonight I celebrate my love for you

And the midnight sun is gonna come shining through

Tonight they'll be no distance between us

What I want most to do is to get close to you….tonight.

Sam rubbed the oil on his penis but it was when Sam began massaging her breasts that Mercedes became almost faint and lightheaded with excitement. She wanted him to never stop what he was doing; she heard sounds coming from her lips in the form of moans as he worked his warm large hands down to her belly button and began to show her exactly what a Treasure Trail truly was.

Sam found himself not able to keep his composure so he had to say what he felt right now as he allowed his hand to slide down to Mercedes vagina and his fingers began rubbing her clitoris and fondling her lips.

Tonight I celebrate my love for you ["I need you, now." Sam whispered. Mercedes inhaled sharply.]

And soon this old world will seem brand new [Sam rolled over on top of her body and then…]

Tonight we will both discover how friends turn into lovers [Sam gently entered Mercedes]

When I make love to you

Tonight I celebrate my love for you

[Sam heard her wince slightly as he slowly but continuously slid himself inside of her a little deeper each time. Mercedes arched her back and her hips moved upward.]

And that midnight sun is gonna come shining through

Tonight they'll be no distance between us

What I want most to do is to get close to you.

[Sam reared his head back in ecstasy when he felt her walls crumble around him and Mercedes grabbed onto his shoulders and arched her back again; she took in a large breath again.]

Tonight I celebrate my love for you….tonight.

The music fades and transitions into Vanessa Daou's "Juliette".

Sam began using slow rhythmic strides in time with the music that had just begun, as he began stroking her dampen hair with one hand while moaning into her ear; never breaking the stride of his movement. Mercedes felt even more excited as she took in these moments, "This was what making love felt like and it was glorious." She thought, her body tingled Sam's grunting made her notice that her back was inching up and down on the mattress beneath her with strength of Sam's motions; she wanted him so much she lifted her legs and wrapped them around Sam's thighs.

Sam began whispering the lyrics of this song in Mercedes' ear (He wasn't singing just talking) and her love for him only deepened; he truly became the man of her dreams.

I let you touch my skin I opened up my tangled web
and then you crept right in I let you dig my deepest depth [Sam's finger encircled her nipple]
Words have wings and they will fly at the slightest breath
Oh yes, Juliette

You're every classic girl you're every precious pearl
Cause butterflies have wings and they will ride the wind
Yes, I've done everything. Don't we go the way of flesh?
One of every sin
I've done it all-now I want what's left

["Holiness" Mercedes whispered as her head tossed from side to side and moaned. Sam smiled into her neck and continued speaking in rhythm.]

Words have wings and they will fly at the slightest breath
Oh yes, Juliette

You're every classic girl You're every precious pearl
Cause butterflies have wings and they will ride the wind
Three small words that keep lovers running in both directions
Yes words have wings my love,
Juliette

But tonight your hair is falling just right [He stroked her hair]
Your lips are glistening in the light [He kissed her lips]
You're wet between the thighs [He thrust deeper]
Juliette

I'll take my chances. If words have wings
let them take to flight with my breath
Juliette

I whisper in your ear

[His tongue darted quickly into her ear and the he whispered again and he felt her whole body quake]

"You and me-there's no regret"
The world will
make you fear
But you're safe
right here
in my bed

Words have wings and they will fly at the slightest breath

Oh yes, Juliette

Juliette, Juliette, Juliette, Juliette

Hearing Sam whisper her name over and over made Mercedes body explode she found herself reaching a peak that she didn't even understand. Every time she thought that she couldn't climb any higher she did.

The music changed to "Meiko's "The Chase" and so did Sam's movements. Sam rolled over clutching Mercedes with him and sweeping her up until she was mounted above him. Everything in Mercedes mind said she should be shy and demur but her body was saying another thing entirely, as he slides his hands down her sides to her waist. He bend his knees upwards behind her buttocks for support and clenched on to her outer thighs as he began sliding her up and down on his shaft until she could feel the head nearly escape her lips and then he would slide her down to the base again.

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

Every time I think of you my body, it sends me chills.

I do it all for you love; I do it for the thrills.

[Sam lifts his backside up off of the bed to deepen his thrusts and buries his head deeper back into his pillow as his head moves from side to side as his moaning getting louder.]

I toss and I turn, babe

I won't let you get away

I watch and I learn, babe

Every move you make.

[Mercedes leans forward pressing both of her hands on either one of his shoulders as she slides up and down on her new favorite ride.]

You're mine, you're mine

I won't let you run from me this time.

[Mercedes bend down lower and had her tongue trace the edges of Sam's lips and Sam grabbed her hips tighter]

You're mine

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

[She began encircling his nipples with her fingers on his now sweat filled chest and had been unconsciously becoming more forceful in her strides.]

["Oh yes, Mercy. Yes, yes" Sam's voice was deep and pleasure infused.]

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

I give it all I got but you're begging me for more

All it took was one shot; now you're down on the floor

You toss and you turn but you like where you lay

[Sam was biting his lower lip attempting to hold back and not have this encounter end. Mercedes found herself feeling more empowered in her own desire and sexuality when she saw how he was reacting to her touch.]

I keep what I earn and I like it this way

You're mine…

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh

You're mine

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh

I won't let you run from me this time

You're mine,

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

You're mine

[Then Mercedes paused and felt Sam's pounding within her inner walls as her moistened hair clung to her neck and forehead. She had heard herself squealing, literally squealing; then she decided he wasn't going to get the upper hand. She was going to do something for him.]

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

[Mercedes grabbed his wrists forcefully which made him stop moving and give her his full attention, he was panting and his hair had turned darker from the dampness, and then she smiled at him and began doubling down clutches onto his shaft with the strength of her pelvis with every bang-bang in the song's lyrics and then she paused for a beat.]

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I've got you now

Bang-bang

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I've got you now

Bang-bang

[Sam thought HE WOULD LOSE HIS MIND]

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I've got you now

Bang-bang

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I got you now

Bang-bang, I've got you now

Bang-bang

She felt that she couldn't breathe, and yet she was taking in everything even Sam's lovely scent, overwhelmed her. "Sam…is this… is this…?" She asked. "Yes, my love…" Sam answered "It is" His voice became higher as he spoke because he was reaching his climax.

Mercedes thighs clenched and Sam's penis began contracting and pulsating until she felt herself spasm between her legs and tighten around his throbbing…his throbbing…

Then a sound escaped Sam that was incredible then he said "You're mine" as he stilled but his penis didn't. Mercedes shouted "I AM." A warm liquid escaped from her body and Sam's. Mercedes couldn't catch her breath. "Oh, Sam… Sam…" Mercedes said as she collapsed downward onto his chest and then laid half of her body beside him and half on top of him, resting her head on his shoulder, the both of them exhausted.

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

Oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh.

The music changed again as they both lay motionless in each other's arms exhausted and spent only the lights of the flickering candles showing signs of life. "With You I'm Born Again" by Billy Preston and Syreeta listening to the music.

Come bring me your softness

Comfort me through all this madness

Woman don't you know with you I'm born again

Come give me your sweetness

Now there's you there is no weakness

Lying safe within your arms I'm born again

I was half not whole in step with none

Reaching through this world in need of one

Come show me your kindness

In your arms I know I'll find this

Woman don't you know with you I'm born again

Lying safe with you I'm born again….

Come bring me…. (ahhh) your softness

Ahhhhhh…

Comfort me through all this madness

Woman don't you know with you I'm born again

Ahhhhhh…

Come give me… (Mmmm) your sweetness

Mmmmmm…

Now there is you there is no weakness

(Now there's you there is no weakness)

Lying safe within your arms

I'm born again

(Woman don't you know with you I'm born again)

I was half not whole in step with none

Reaching through this world in need of one

Come show me your kindness

In your arms I know I'll find this

Woman, don't you know with you I'm born again?

(Don't you know with you I'm born again?)

Lying safe with you I'm born again.

The playlist ended and the room was quiet until Sam sighed "I truly thank God for you Mercedes" he said. "Not as much as I thank God for you Sam."

Mercedes lifted herself up onto her elbow and kissed her husband.

Author's note: Well that is how I envisioned that happening in my imagination. They had waited a long time for this moment so I tried to make it worth it for both them and you, lol. God willing I will see you at the next chapter. Please forgive all the mistakes and please review-Anna.