Freedom

Chapter 31

Previously:

"Ranger, the jury just came back. He's guilty on all counts. The charges against him carry a minimum sentence of 132 years. There's no way he'll ever be eligible for parole, so looks like someone will never again see the light of day."

"Please tell me you're not joking." Steph said, trying hard not to jump up and down.

"No, Ms. Plum, this is one thing I would never joke about. You are safe. Mr. Morelli will never again be able to hurt you or anyone else. We have to wait for his sentencing hearing before it's all completely over, and until then, he remains in solitary so he has no contact with the outside world."

"Thank you, Gordon! Thank you so very much!" My babe screamed as she jumped into my arms. I dropped the phone as I kissed her senseless and then held her high in the air, her arms outstretched above her in a victory pose.

JPOV

That fucking whore! I can't believe she go the best of me! I have been in this hell hole for three fucking months now… three months! My shitty poor excuse for a lawyer sold me out and stopped fighting after I expressed myself in the courtroom a month ago. I don't know what the big fucking deal was, I had to talk to her, she had to know how mad I was! She needs to be disciplined for what she's done and that bastard she's carrying needs to be abolished. But now it's too late. I had my sentencing hearing today. It was my first day out of solitary confinement since the last time I was in court. I was sentenced to 154 years in prison! 154 years! Holy shit! No possibility of parole! And get this, after coming back from court, I was released into the general population. General population! Fuck that! They'd eat me alive if these fucking prisoners find out or recognize me! At least my hair had grown out and I have a beard to hide behind. I demanded to see the warden, trying to explain that I was a cop for chrissake and the moron of a guard laughed in my face telling me to enjoy my stay.

RPOV

Steph and I are getting ready for a party tonight. I've reserved my sister's restaurant again and invited all of Rangeman, Connie, Lula, Mary Lou & Lenny, her family and my family. It's a freakin' great day for a celebration! Morelli is going to rot in jail like the scum he is. Gordon, without the judge's knowledge, made an audio recording of Morelli's sentencing for Steph. He thought she might need the closure and I couldn't have agreed more. In yesterday's morning meeting, without giving Steph a heads up, I had him call in and before he told us anything, he played the fifteen minute judgement. By the time the judge gave the 154 year sentence without the possibility of parole, Steph was out of her seat jumping up and down. We speculate that he wouldn't ever be a free man again, but now we know for a fact.

"Yes! Yes! Yes! Oh my god, I'm so relieved! I've got my life back! Thank you Jesus!" My core team who was present were laughing their asses off at her jubilation. She ran to the door, swung it open and yelled out for the whole floor to hear, "I'm free! Joe's going to rot in hell!" By the time everyone had given her congratulation hugs and kisses, she was a worn out, happy woman.

"Babe…"

"Don't babe me! You're just as happy as I am, you just aren't capable of jumping up and down over it! But Carlos, don't you see what this means? FREEDOM!" She leaned her head back and screamed. "I finally have my freedom. Freedom from Joe, freedom from my mother, freedom from every fucking person who ever said I wasn't good enough, that I'd never be anything more than a burg wife and mother! I'm free from all of that. Thank you! Thank you so damn much for everything you've done to make this day so freaking fantastically real! I owe so many people for who I am today, right this very happy over the top moment! We need a party! We need to throw a big frickin' party and invite everyone we love to celebrate! Oh, my god, I can't breathe!"

And she couldn't. She was talking so fast, trying to contain her excitement had her breathing so hard she laid right down in the middle of the floor, in front of everyone and laughed. She simply laughed, releasing all the tension, the negativity she'd been bottling up over the past few months.

I looked around the room and have never seen such a sight. There must be thirty of my men here. Big, tough men that put the fear of god in most. And every single one of them is sporting a goofy grin. It's a sight to behold. This petite woman is the glue that holds our building together, these men together. She makes them want to be better people, better men. She's even made quite a few of them seek out loving relationships of their own. A party… sound like a great idea!

I scooped up my woman who now has caught her breath and whispered in her ear. "Babe, let's go upstairs and start celebrating."

"Why batman… I thought you'd never ask." My men were clearing their throats, some even blushing at what they know we are about to do. I'm the envy of them all and I'll say it for the millionth time, I'm one lucky man!

I have taken so much personal time these last few months. I never thought I'd break away from being the man that lived to work. And now I'm the man who works to live and maintain my company. It's been a long time coming. Tank has been happy to pick up the slack reassuring me that I've had a few too many years of working eighty hour weeks, that I deserve some happy. I couldn't agree more.

Stephanie and I spent the rest of the morning making slow, sweet love. Ella brought a special lunch up around one o'clock and while we ate her delicious grilled chicken Caesar salad, we asked her join us for lunch and help plan our party. We shot a few ideas on the theme back and forth and all eyes were on Steph when she burted out, "let's get married!"

"Babe, we're already engaged. Sorry, I kinda beat you to the punch!"

"No, silly, I mean, let's get married… at the party. Unless it's too soon…"

"I love it!" Ella yelled, excitedly. "I have a dreamy dress that would work perfectly for a casual wedding, and you're only showing a little, so it would still fit, I'm sure."

"Carlos… what do you think?"

SPOV

"Get married? Tomorrow? I don't know… I mean, it's so soon, and I'm not sure…" What? He looks so serious! What the hell… "I'm not sure I can wait that long! If you want to get married, I want to do it now, this minute. Tomorrow night is perfect! I can't wait to make you my wife!" Now that's more like it…my man was yanking my chain.

"Ella, can I come up and try on the dress? Then I'll start calling everyone. Wait… who do we want to invite? Where do we go?"

Carlos offered to make a couple of calls and I went upstairs with Ella. The dress she had was breathtaking. It was a champagne colored, silk empire waist dress with spaghetti straps that ended just above my knee. It was slit in front and parted minimally at the waist and about a foot apart at the seem to show a form fitting skirt of the same color underneath but in a stetchy material. She had a scarf that matched that could be worn over my shoulders in case it got cold. And the best part… it fits! Thank god. After seeing it, I would've been crushed if it didn't. She zipped it back into the garment bag it came in and took it downstairs to the apartment. We walked into the living room as Carlos wrapped up his phone call.

"That was Celia. She would be happy to close down her restaurant tomorrow night and host our party. If that sounds good to you, I'll call her back and ask her to make it extra romantic without telling her why."

"I love it! Oh my god, I can't believe we're doing this! By tomorrow night I'm going to be your wife."

"Stephanie Manoso, I like the sound of it, babe. Let's start calling our families. My mother alone will send the Manoso family grapevine into a tizzy. Why don't you call your dad, Mary Lou, Connie and Lula. I'll go send tell the core team and send an e-mail out to the rest of Rangeman. They'll be pulling straws to see who has to work. Ella, after I confirm with Celia, will you call her and speak with her about menu? We want some of both of our favorites and whatever else she comes up with."

"What about a cake? We have to have wedding cake! It's even better than birthday cake!"

"Why don't you leave that to me. I know just the person."

"Thank you Ella, you're the best!"

"After my calls, I'm taking a nap. I know there's a lot to do, but I'm exhausted. It's been a tremendously long, but oh so happy day!" I took the cordless phone and curled up on the end of the sofa.

Carlos came over to me and gave me a little kiss on my nose. "Love you, babe."

"I love you too Carlos!"

I'm getting married today. I'm getting married. Wow. Everyone is able to make our party. Carlos and I haven't let on to anyone that today is the big day. They all think we're celebrating my new found freedom. I can't wait to see the looks on their faces! I have been downright giddy ever since the phone call from Gordon, so no one suspects a thing. Suckers! It will be fun this way. I love a good surprise, there's no time for my mother to try and sneak in her two cents worth, and no gifts. Don't get me wrong, I love receiving gifts, but since this whole thing started, what I want and value more than anything is time with those I love and care about the most.

Carlos and I decided to be fashionably late to the event. Celia is starting the evening with drinks and appetizers, and everyone would remain seated at the seats at their tables and Carlos and I would be in the center of the room. His cousin, Edwardo is a priest and was happy to join our lives in marriage. I panicked last night about our wedding bands and Carlos got this sheepish look on his face and went to his safe. When he came back, he had the most gorgeous matching bands. Good thing I liked the idea of wearing my wedding band and engagement ring separately… guess we both have good taste. I told him how much I loved them.

We got ready separately and when we met in the kitchen right before we were to leave, my fiancé is a sight to behold! He's wearing a black tux with tails, a white shirt with black tie and the hankie in his pocket matches my dress. Holy shit! He's incredible, he's gorgeous, and he's mine!

Carlos' mouth was hanging open as his eyes scanned my body. "Babe… you look amazing. I can't believe you're about to permanently become mine." I walked into his arms and breathed in his essence, taking one last long draw from the feeling of contentment that he gives me before we leave to take the next step in our lives.

The drive over in the Turbo, my favorite car, went by much too quickly and before we knew it we were here. As we stood on the front steps of the restaurant hand in hand, we looked into each other's eyes and silently communicated our joy, huge grins breaking out on both our faces.

Walking into the restaurant is like walking into a mystical, magical wonderland. There are lights tastefully draped on ornamental trees and around the room, highlighting the beautiful colors in each room. Festive Cuban music was playing, people were talking, laughing, drinking, and my favorite part, eating. I was never a girl to have a dream wedding in mind, but right here, right now in my life, this is perfection.

We went around to all the tables, mingling with our guests, receiving so much love and affection it was almost overwhelming. When we saw Edwardo stand in the middle of the middle of the room to greet us, Carlos and I went over to him. He pulled a bible out front under his suit coat and motioned to Celia to turn off the music. All conversation stopped and everyone's eyes were turned to us.

Carlos addressed our guests. "Thank you all for coming to our special night. This party started out as a celebration of Stephanie's freedom from the nightmare she's endured over these last eight plus months. But instead of just celebrating her freedom from the past, we decided to proceed with celebrating our future. As man and wife."

We joined hands and turned to face Edwardo. "We are gathered here today to take part in the most time-honored tradition of uniting a man and a woman in marriage. Carlos and Stephanie have chosen tonight to witness before us their love for each other. I remind them that they are performing an act of complete faith each in the other; in a world where faith often falls short of expectations, it is a tribute to these two who now join hands and hearts in perfect trust and faith.

Marriage takes dedication, to stay open to one another, to learn and to grow together even when this is not always easy to do. It will take faith – to always be willing to go forward to tomorrow, never really knowing what tomorrow will bring. And it will take commitment – to hold true to the journey you both now pledge to share together. Carlos, your vows to Stephanie…"

When Carlos turned and looked at me, the love I saw in his eyes more than took my breath away. His voice, steady and sure, confidently said, "Today, I join my life to yours, not merely as your husband, but as your friend, your lover, and your confidant. Let me be the shoulder you lean on, the rock on which you rest, the companion of your life. I pledge myself to be faithful to you and give myself wholly to you. I promise to love, cherish and protect you all the days of my life. With you I will walk my path from this day forward."

With as much courage as I could muster, I choked down the tears of happiness and said "I promise to love you, to commit to you, and support you. I pledge to respect your unique talents and abilities, to lend you strength for all of your dreams. You have shown me what unconditional love feels like and for that I thank you. You are everything I need and at this moment I know all of my prayers have been answered and that all of my dreams have come true. From this day forward, you shall not walk alone. My heart will be your shelter and my arms will be your home. As I have given you my hand to hold, I give you my life to keep. I look forward to a lifetime of eternal, immeasurable love."

"Carlos, Stephanie, do you have your rings?" Carlos nodded and took them out of his shirt pocket.

"I, Carlos, give you all I am and all I am to become. Take this ring, and with it my promise of faith, patience, faithfulness and love, for the rest of my life. "

"I, Stephanie, give you all I am and all I am to become. Take this ring, and with it my promise of faith, patience, faithfulness and love, for the rest of my life."

Edwardo put a hand on each of our shoulders and said, "Carlos and Stephanie, you have now affirmed before your families and friends your love and your caring for each other. You have come from different backgrounds. You have walked different paths. You are different individuals. Your love has transcended these differences. In the years ahead of you, may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives as you help to create and shape the future."

"May the challenges of your life together be met with courage and optimism. May you learn from your failures and grow in your achievements. May life bless you with children, friends, and family in a wide network of mutual support and enjoyment. May you face pain, toil, and trouble with a stout but light heart. May you share with others the radiance of your seasons of joy and pleasure. May you always remember that laughter is the medicine of God."

Edwardo joined our right hands and said, "Now that Carlos and Stephanie have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of a ring, I pronounce that they are husband and wife, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder. Amen."

Carlos pulled me in his arms and started kissing me. Edwardo said, "wait just a minute, I haven't gotten to that part yet."

Carlos shot him a look of frustration. "Alright already, you may kiss…" He was too slow, we were back at it and before it got too hot and heavy, I was pulled away from my husband by Lester.

"Congratulations Mrs. Manoso. Welcome to the family." Lester leaned me back and gave me a quick kiss on the lips. I laughed as he stood me back up as I could hear Carlos growling behind us.

Carlos pulled me from Lester's arms and said, "I don't share." I knew he was being light hearted, but at the same time, very serious.

Mary Lou, Connie and Lula were next to give their congratulations. Lula shrieked in my ear, "Girl, you got some explaining to do!" I didn't even give them a response before I was lifted and passed along to several of my guys who were impatiently awaiting their turn.

The music was cranked back up and dinner brought out and the party started! Celia's served dinner buffet style so we could all choose what we wanted and she truly outdid herself. I'm happy that she had extra staff on hand so she could enjoy the party too. She came over and pointed out each dish. I can't even remember the names of all the dishes that were pointed out to me, especially since most of them were Cuban, but they all look fabulous. I simply handed my plate to Carlos and said "You know what I like and you know what baby will let me eat, can you please choose my dinner?"

"I'd be happy to, Mrs. Manoso, my beautiful, radiant wife." My heart fluttered with his words… Mrs. Manoso.

"Thank you, my Cuban sex god husband!"

"Mmmm, husband, I like the sound of that, babe."

"My Dad and Grandma are trying to get my attention, I'll be right back."

"Be quick so your food won't get cold. I'll meet you at our table. Would you like sparkling white grape juice to drink?"

"That would be great. I'm soooo thirsty!"

"I'll get you some water too. You need to be hydrated so I can show everyone what a terrific dancer you are later." I winked at him and headed over to show my wedding band to Dad and Grandma. My Dad took me in his arms, lifting me off my feet in a tight hug.

"You are the most beautiful bride I've ever seen, Pumpkin. And pregnancy suits you, you're simply glowing."

"Thank you, Dad. I'm so glad you're both here! Did you like our surprise?"

"Grandbaby, you're like me, keep 'em guessing! I love a good surprise wedding. Where are you going on your honeymoon. Mmmm, I'd love to get that handsome package of alone for a getaway."

"Grandma! That's my husband you're talking about! No touching, and that goes for the rest of the guys too."

"Oh, you're no fun!"

"We haven't discussed honeymoon yet, this was a spur of the moment kind of thing."

"Let us know if you're going out of town, pumpkin. You better go eat, I see your husband already sitting at your table."

"Love you guys! I'll call soon and we'll do lunch. Oh, Dad, do me a favor and don't tell your wife that I'm married now. It will be all over the burg and I want her to hear it from the grapevine."

"You're evil, grandbaby. I love it!" I kissed them both hugs and kisses in case they snuck out early and went to find my husband.

I was intercepted by a waiter who stepped in front of my path. He grabbed my arm and started leading me out of the room. Shoving a recorder in front of me, he said "I'm Art Walker from channel 7 news. I'd like to heat what you have to say about Joseph Morelli."

"Carlos!" I screamed. All I could hear were forks being dropped and chairs scooting on the floor as all of Rangeman responded to my scream. Next thing I know, the reporter jerks and falls behind me, bringing me down with him. I look up and my grandma is smiling smugly.

"A purse does it every time. Especially when you pack a little heat in it for weight!" She had hit him over the head with her purse. I wish I could have seen that!

Tank and Cal had Art picked up and cuffed instantly, getting him out of the room. Carlos and Bobby were at my side. "Did he hurt you? How are you feeling?..." Bobby started drilling me with questions.

"I'm fine, just a little embarrassed. He's a reporter who was trying to get info on Joe's case from me. He only had me a second before I screamed. I fell on top of him, so I'm fine."

Carlos helped me up and rubbed his hands down my arms, his eyes scanning my body for proof that I was indeed alright. His hands rubbing my belly in the most protective, endearing way.

"I am so hungry, can we just eat and forget all about that jerk?"

"I want you by my side for the rest of the night, babe."

"Good, cause there's no other place I'd rather be!"

RPOV

The rest of our dinner went off without a hitch. Stephanie moaned through dinner which did nothing to help the state I was already in. My men kept a close eye on us and on our surroundings so we could relax again. Celia hadn't recognized the reporter, so we deduced one of her regulars tipped him for some quick cash and traded places. No harm was done, but the police picked him up, Tank filling them in on what transpired. We would give our statement tomorrow.

We spent the rest of the night dancing with each other. Grateful that my men didn't try to cut in, we enjoyed the intimacy of our new roles as husband and wife. Stephanie of course danced with her father and I my mother. My mother kept gushing about how glad she was that I finally found happiness and love. She thinks Stephanie has changed me for the better… I couldn't agree more.