Wendy's eyes shot open as she heard Peter's weak whisper, as if he were right beside her. Looking around, she discovered she was in her bedroom at the Goldberg mansion and Peter was nowhere to be seen. Tentatively, she threw back the covers and slipped on the robe that hung on her door. Peering out into the hallway, she softly called his name. She wasn't even sure which one was his room. Trembling slightly, she used the wall to brace herself and walked down the hall.
"Peter?" she tried again. The last thing that she wanted was for the Goldbergs to wake up and fuss over her. She noticed the door at the end of the hall was ajar and she peered in. She let out a little scream at the sight that met her eyes. Peter lay in the floor, his legs tangled together, his wrists wrapped in blood-soaked blankets. His eyes were closed and he looked paler than death. She dropped to her knees and felt for a pulse.
"Peter? Oh god, what have you done? Peter, can you hear me? Please hear me, sweetheart, please." His heartbeat was there but extremely faint. Wendy picked up one of his hands, which was still bleeding profusely.
"Peter, please…please don't leave me. I'll die without you. No matter how bad things are for me, they always get better when I see your face. Peter? Please wake up." She pulled him into her arms and his body was limp. Tears fell from her eyes onto his face and she nuzzled at his chest.
"I know you're in there somewhere. You can beat this. Come back to me, sweetheart. You are the Prince of Neverland, you're not going to die like this! Come back to me, Peter. Wake up. Please wake up. I saw our future. Together. Our children, they look just like you. You have to come back and give that future a chance. Wake up, Peter, and see me. Please." But his breathing became fainter as he slipped away in the arms of the girl who loved him. Wendy couldn't see anything through her tears and gasped when she noticed a bright light coming from his chest. Not wanting to leave his side, she leaned in closer to discover its origin and saw it was illuminating from his heart.
"Peter?" She said softly. The light got brighter and brighter and the room was full of a blinding light, too bright for anyone to really see anything. When it faded, there was piercing darkness.
Peter's eyes opened slowly, his mind swimming. His eyes traveled the room and he tried to remember what had happened. He seemed to be in the Goldberg mansion. But how? He had died, he knew it. He had seen that light welcoming him into the beyond…and yet something had pulled him back. He felt something heavy on his chest and turned to look. His heart soared when he saw Wendy stretched across him, her arm dangling around his waist, her face buried in his flesh. Her long blonde hair tickled his arm as she dozed peacefully. He reached out a finger and gently traced the contours of her beautiful face.
"Was it you?" he whispered. He noticed his wrists had been wrapped tightly with clean linen and bandages. Wincing, he saw one of them was already stained red from his wound. He leaned his head back against the wall, still feeling extremely weak. Glancing down at Wendy, he pushed her hair out of her face and softly kissed her lips. Her eyes opened slowly and met his and she jumped up, gasping.
"Oh Peter!" She reached out a shaking hand to stroke his face but hesitated, as if uncertain if he was real or not. Peter took her hand and brought it to his cheek and closed his eyes at her touch. Her fingers caressed his face lovingly and she let out a choked sob at the contact.
"Peter," she said in the barest of whispers. Swallowing his tears, he leaned forward and pressed his lips against hers. Her lips parted slowly and he forced his way in, devouring her hungrily. Her hands went to his cheeks and she held on for dear life. Breaking apart for breath, they were lost in each other's gazes. She lowered her head to his chest, her arms wrapping around him and he held her in his strong embrace.
"Don't you ever try to leave me like that again, Peter Pan," her voice was muffled by his flesh. He closed his eyes and rested his chin on her hair.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, my love, I don't know what I was thinking. Only after I did it did I realize what a fool I was and I called out your name. And I guess…you heard me?" She looked up at him and frowned, a line forming between her brows.
"I heard you whisper my name and found you there, so close to death. I don't understand what happened but you were dying in my arms and then this light blinded me and when it faded, you were breathing again. I called the Goldbergs and we cleaned and wrapped your wrists and Mr. Goldberg put you into the bed. Your breathing was normal but you weren't waking up. I thought I had lost you."
"You did…for a minute. But you saved me yet again. Your face has always brought me back. Saved my life. You are my healing force."
"How did it happen?" Peter tightened his grip around her and she rested her head on him again.
"Neverland has always held a power I can't explain or understand. I was a part of that power for hundreds of years. You, Wendy, were a part of that power as well. You're the one person who made the Pan want to grow up. Hook knew you were the one person who could save me. Because of our bond, you hold more power than you know."
"It has to be magic," she agreed. "You found me in the tavern and I heard you whispering to me. Our love is clearly potent. It seems we can overcome anything."
"As long as we're together," he said, pulling her away to look at him. "I'll make this vow to you right here and now. I will always be there to rescue you. I will do everything in my power to keep you from harm. I will love you until the day I draw my last breath and then even after, continue loving you from the heavens. You are my all, Wendy, my very heart and soul. I cannot- I will not live without you."
"I make this vow to you, Peter, my love. To let you dry my tears, to fly with you through the stars. I shall be the most loyal and faithful wife there ever was. And I shall bear you the most beautiful of children, perhaps with your charm and good looks and my wit and logic. I shall make you a home and you shall never regret the decision to become a man, for I will provide you everything your heart desires." Overcome with love and adoration for the woman in front of him, he leaned forward and claimed her in a searing kiss. Breaking apart, he smiled.
"Well…at least we have our vows all ready. One thing down, a million to go."
"I don't want a big wedding anymore, Peter. I don't need anything but you. I'm just ready to be your wife. Now and forever more." He grinned at her words.
"So, am I your husband now?" She reached for his hand and slid something cold onto his finger. He looked down and saw a simple golden band inscribed with tiny words all around the band. He brought it closer to examine the writing and his heart fluttered when he discovered what it said.
to love will be an awfully big adventure
Overcome with love, Peter stared into her eyes and pulled her into his lap, placing kisses all over her mouth and face. She giggled as she writhed in his arms, and he moaned at the sensation of her backside in such close proximity with his growing arousal. She noticed and brought herself back down beside him and kissed him quickly.
"There. We're married. You, Peter Pan, are my husband." A broad grin crossed Peter's face as he stared up at the ceiling. Hook's words from years ago echoed in his ears.
There is another in your place. He is called…husband.
Not anymore, Hook. I'm the husband and we are beyond your power,' he said to himself. A smug grin crossed his face and Wendy laughed.
"You certainly look like the bird that ate the canary." Turning to her, he caressed her cheek.
"I don't recall seeing any feathers on that delectable body of yours. Did I miss something?" She playfully hit him and he captured her wrists, bringing them down beside her and claiming her mouth again. His want for her grew and he leaned over her, his hand going to her hair as he continued his exploration of her mouth. His hand drifted down to her neck, running along the smooth skin of her shoulders, arm, and collarbone. They trailed over a breast, itching to have contact through the material of her nightdress. She squirmed underneath him but her eyes shot open and for a moment she looked sad. She gently pushed him away and tried to sit up.
"I'm sorry, Peter. I wish we could have a wonderful wedding night but the doctor said no…you know, for a few days. Just so I can heal properly." Tears welled up in her eyes as she turned her head away but he shook his head and cupped her chin, drawing her eyes back to his.
"Wendy, as much as I love being joined with you, there are other ways we can make love. Just relax, sweetheart, and feel my love all around you." Very slowly as if it was their first time, Peter lifted the night dress over her head and tossed it aside. His eyes raked her body, doing his best to ignore the many bruises and abrasions that covered her pale flesh. He got up on all fours and straddled her, caught off guard when she yanked his shirt off and threw it on top of hers. His brow raised high into his hair.
"Well I need to see and feel some part of you," she said innocently. Laughing, Peter leaned down and kissed her tenderly, his hands making the gentlest paths across her skin. Mindful of her injuries, his hands did the lightest of touches as he trailed feather-light caresses across her swollen mounds. She drew in a sharp breath when she felt his lips brush against her sensitive nipple and he teased it with his tongue. The slow pace was both agonizing and incredible. Peter's gentle actions only made her want for him even stronger. Showing enough attention to the right breast, he moved his lips to the other and gently teased and suckled at her bosom. His hands ran down her sides, his fingertips sliding along her hips and circling around the inner flesh of her thighs. Continuing his path of fire, his tongue trailed to the flesh between her breasts, down to her navel, making her stomach quiver. Still covering her with feather-light kisses, she felt his tongue make its way down her pelvis and around her thighs. Her eyes were closed tightly, her mouth slightly open, her fists clutching at the sheets around her. Peter moved down between her legs and gently spread her apart. He leaned down and blew softly on her core, making her cry out. Barely touching his tongue to her folds, his tender touch drove Wendy to the brink of ecstasy in a matter of minutes. He lavished her swollen flesh and sucked in earnest as her panting increased. She threw a pillow over her face as she felt herself reach the gates of heaven. His name dripping from her lips in a breathy moan, she felt herself relax as she rode out her climax. Peter kissed his way back up her body until he lowered his mouth to hers. Still heaving, she clutched at his hair and kissed him passionately.
"Thank you," was all she could say. Smiling, Peter lay his head on her sweaty breast and tangled in their loving embrace, they slowly drifted off to their wonderfully delicious dreams.
The next few days the two lovers took turns taking care of the other. Peter had always healed very quickly and luckily, this time was no different. The first day they stayed in bed together, eating together when Mrs. Goldberg brought up a tray of food and had checked over their injuries with a tight-lipped smile. Peter was relieved to see his wrist had finally stopped bleeding and he grimaced the first time Wendy replaced his bandages. She had unwound the gauze and had merely muttered "foolish boy" under her breath. But Peter knew better…she was as grateful and surprised as he was that he had survived. On their fourth day in bed, Peter had thrown back the covers and tried to walk around the room before he felt weak and had to lay back down. Wendy on the other hand, seemed to be healing well and had made a trip downstairs before Mrs. Goldberg shooed her back into bed. A week after their accidents, both were ready to get out of the bedroom. Leaning against each other for support, they slowly made their way down to the sitting room where Mr. and Mrs. Goldberg were sipping on their tea and Victoria was practicing the piano. The little girl squealed when she saw them enter and everyone jumped up and swarmed around them.
"Oh it's wonderful to see you both up and about! How are you feeling?"
"Completely healed," Peter said, beaming.
"Quite well," Wendy said with a smile.
"Oh you both have put a strain on my blood pressure. Are you hungry? I can whip something up for lunch."
"Don't put yourself through trouble, Madame, I can wait until dinner."
"No trouble at all," Mrs. Goldberg said, patting Peter's hand and hurrying off toward the kitchen. Victoria hugged Wendy round the middle before she resumed her position at the piano. Peter helped Wendy sit in one of the large comfortable chairs and he settled himself on the floor beside her chair.
"Mr. Goldberg, I hope Mr. Andrew is not too upset with me. My first day of work and I'm bandaged up in bed."
"Not at all, lad, I told him you had fallen ill and you would be back to work next week," Mr. Goldberg said without glancing up from his paper. Peter bit his lip and played with his hands in his lap. Wendy had said the Goldbergs had helped wrap his wrists. They knew what he had done to himself and he felt guiltier than ever. As if she could read his mind, Wendy lay a comforting hand on his shoulder and he felt warmth spread over him. Mrs. Goldberg returned with a tray of sandwiches and tea and Peter realized how hungry he was. As he took a bite, the gold ring on his finger caught the light and made Victoria gasp.
"Peter, where did you get that ring on your finger? It's lovely!" He glanced at it then up at Wendy and they shared a smile.
"I suppose we have some news for you all. Wendy and I exchanged vows in a private ceremony. We're officially man and wife now." There was silence for a moment before Victoria and Mrs. Goldberg both rushed toward them and crushed them in embraces. Mr. Goldberg pulled him to his feet and was wringing his hand.
"Well I must say I will be disappointed not to see you have a grand wedding but I most certainly understand the urgency, with everything that's happened..." she trailed off, looking uncomfortable but she hitched her smile almost immediately. "Well, I do hope you will still allow me to throw you a wonderful wedding party? Oh please dears, indulge an old woman her fancies." Wendy smiled and hugged the woman.
"We would be honored, Mrs. Goldberg." Mrs. Goldberg clapped her hands together like a little girl and let out a gushing sigh.
"I'll get started on the planning right away! Now leave all the details to me! I'll send out the invitations this afternoon. Wendy, where do your parents live, dear?"
"In Bloomsbury in London, Madame."
"Why, that's not far from here, dear! Would you like to go see them this afternoon?" Wendy's eyes widened at the thought of seeing her family after all this time. She tried to speak but couldn't find the words. Peter reached for her hand and squeezed, giving her the courage to respond.
"I should like that very much, Mrs. Goldberg."
"It's settled! We will go over there today and you shall invite them to the party! Oh I just love engagement parties…ah well, wedding parties I suppose! Goodness, I had no idea you both were so eager. Well, of course I should have known, after all…but that's neither here nor there, dears. Goodness me, I must get changed." Peter watched in amusement as Mrs. Goldberg rattled away and excused herself to get dressed. Peter glanced down at his own clothes and sighed.
"I suppose I should put something else on as well. Since I'm meeting my in laws tonight."
"You've never met them before?" Mr. Goldberg asked, his brow raised. Feeling a blush spread across his face, Peter shook his head. He had been around polite society long enough to know the man was supposed to ask permission of the woman's father before they were married. Of course, Wendy and Peter had not had an official wedding with a priest but of course they would never admit that nor did care. In their eyes, they were husband and wife and no one could tear them apart. But Peter had never been good with parents and for the first time in his life, he worried what others might think of him.
"They will adore you, Peter," Wendy said quietly, squeezing his hand. He smiled down at her and Mr. Goldberg clapped his shoulder heartily.
"Quite right. We'll represent your parental figures, Peter m' boy, and we attest to your excellent character." Peter bowed his head gratefully to the man.
"That means more to me than you'll ever know, sir. I couldn't imagine trying to explain everything that's happened without you and Mrs. Goldberg there. You've been my family for months and it seems like you always have." Wendy excused herself to go get dressed and Peter watched her lean against the wall for support.
"Sir, I am really quite nervous," he said in a whisper, his eyes still on Wendy.
"But of course you're nervous, you're meeting your father in law tonight! Nothing scarier than that, m'boy," he said with a chuckle. Peter tried to smile but he found it difficult.
"You know everything, sir. It was hard for me to tell you both but we felt you had a right to know. Now I feel that her parents need to know too but I don't know how on earth I will be able to explain all of that. How could they possibly give me their blessing as their son-in-law after they hear of all of the terrible things their daughter has been through since we've been together?" His head hung low, feeling worse not better now that he actually spoke the words. Mr. Goldberg set his hands on Peter's shoulders and cleared his throat. Peter noticed they were about the same height.
"Peter, listen to me. You have shown nothing but love and adoration for that young woman. You both have been through some terrible ordeals and neither of you are at fault for any of it. Now I won't lie, the Darlings may be a bit uneasy about your youth but that's why Eleanor and I are going with you. You've got to tell them, lad, but we'll be with you in case you need any back up. And you've forgotten about your beautiful wife. She can attest to everything as well and she knows how to handle her parents, after all. You can't worry about it, Peter, because none of it is your fault. And let's just hope they will be grateful to you for bringing home their daughter and leave it at that." Peter bit his lip, thinking about Wendy's many bruises. Perhaps they should wait another week until she was completely healed. He glanced down at his wrists and his heart sank. He didn't want to meet the Darlings like this. Shaking his head, he backed away from Mr. Goldberg slowly.
"I don't think this is the right time. I think we should wait- I mean, just until she heals, that is, I er-"
"Waiting is not going to help any. The longer you've been married, the harder it will be to tell them. You did not hit Wendy. You protected her as best you could. If the Darlings can't understand that, then they have lost both a daughter and a wonderful son-in-law. Because I know Wendy will run away with you to wherever you wish to take her. You're a family now, son, you have to start thinking of each other and not what others expect of you." Without another word, Mr. Goldberg walked past Peter and headed upstairs to change clothes as well. Peter stared after him, lost in thought.
Walking down to the hall to his bedroom, Peter passed Wendy's room and peered inside. She was dressed most magnificently, with her long curls pulled over her shoulder and Peter's kiss nestled between her bosom. She was standing in front of the mirror but her eyes were closed and her lips were moving silently. Peter pushed the door open wider so he could hear what she was saying to the silent room.
"He is my husband and no matter what you say or do, I will never leave his side," she said quietly. His heart soared and he slowly made his way over to her and wrapped her in his strong arms. Her eyes shot open and he stared into the mirror, smiling.
"You are my miracle, Wendy Darling. No matter what happens tonight, no matter what is said, we're leaving London and starting a brand new life together." Wendy returned the smile and leaned back into his arms.
"I had a feeling you would say that which is why I am preparing myself for goodbyes. I know they will try to convince us to stay and Father will probably try to guilt you into it as well. Just be brave, Peter. Be the Peter Pan I know so well."
"I'm not so sure that's a good idea, love," he said stepping away from her. She turned to face him and he stroked a strand of hair from her cheek. "The Peter Pan you know so well didn't give a fig about what others thought. I never dealt with parents or society and I often made a fool of myself. I was rash and cocky. Even now that I remember everything, I look back with disgust and ask myself, was that really me?" Wendy smiled and rested a hand on his cheek.
"You've changed, Peter. That's all there is to it. You grew up and you changed. For the better. That brash, cocky boy is still inside you, believe you me. But," she cut him off as he opened his mouth to protest, "you have matured and become something you never wanted to become. All for the sake of love." He leaned down and brought his lips to hers, pulling her into his strong embrace, making her go weak in the knees. He pulled back and their eyes met, blue with blue. Wendy could almost see the tossing seas of Neverland in his eyes and it made her even weaker.
"As long as your father is nothing like Hook, I think I'll be ok." She giggled.
"He isn't. Go get changed. I'm dying to introduce you to the Boys as my husband." Peter closed his eyes at the word, grinning broadly. He didn't think he'd ever get used to it. Then he remembered the Lost Boys, Wendy's brothers, who had been in Neverland with him for years, who knew him as the little boy who would never ever grow up. Oh how life can change you. Giving her a quick kiss, he left her room and went to put on the suit Mr. Goldberg had given him only weeks ago. Standing in front of the mirror, he fidgeted a little but the little boy in leaves appeared and winked at him. He glanced at his wedding ring, gave his reflection a confident smile, and went downstairs to prepare the coach.
No one said a word as they trotted down the dark street. The lamps had already come on and Darling's steady 'clip clop' rhythm was the only thing that broke the uncomfortable silence. Mr. and Mrs. Godlberg stared off in the distance, chewing their tongues in earnest. Peter wished Victoria was here for she would have been chattering away happily but the Goldbergs had left her with her nanny, feeling that the evening may not be appropriate for the girl. He clicked the reigns nervously and Wendy must have sensed his anxiety because she slipped her hand into his and rested them on her knee. He cast her a quick smile before he tightened his grip on the reigns, feeling more confident and brave.
"Peter, this is it," she breathed. She was staring at the large house in front of her as Peter pulled Darling to a halt. For a moment they all simply stared at the house, feeling tense. Wendy rose and Peter jumped out to help her down. Mr. Goldberg helped his wife out and cleared his throat.
"Lead the way, my dear." Squeezing Peter's hand, Wendy slowly made her way to the front of the house and with a shaking hand, clicked the door knocker twice. Several agonizing moments passed in which both Peter and Wendy were thinking they should just go home and forget about this meeting but the door opened and a stream of light escaped onto the porch.
"May I help you?" a young boy said. Wendy gasped, her hands slowly going to her mouth.
"Michael," she breathed. The boy blinked and stepped closer, a dawning look of comprehension passing over his youthful face.
"Wendy?" She pulled her brother into her arms and held him close, not bothering to stop the tears. Michael, too, felt tears stream down his face and the Goldbergs looked elsewhere, feeling this intimate moment deserved more privacy than they were providing.
"Come inside," he said, his eyes never leaving his sister's face. He gestured them all in then remembering his manners, offered to take hats and coats. His eyes lingered on Peter for a moment but returned instantly to Wendy. Pulling on her hand he led them further into the entryway and Wendy could hear her brothers playing noisily in the next room.
"Mother! Father! Come quick," Michael cried, not letting go of Wendy's hand. Wendy's other hand took Peter's and he squeezed slightly. Her father entered first, opening his mouth to ask his son what was the matter but stopping dead when he saw Michael clinging to a young girl in a blue dress, much like the ones his daughter often wore.
"My god," he said softly. Wendy's eyes filled with new tears as she released Peter's and Michael's hands and edged closer to her father. He fell to his knees, whether in shock or thanks, no one knew but Wendy ran to him and he hugged her close.
"Can it be?" they heard a woman's voice whisper. Wendy looked up into the pale face of her mother, her cheeks wet with tears. She wrapped herself around Wendy and her husband and clung on for dear life.
"What's going on?" said another voice. Peter gasped as he realized the handsome youth in front of him was Tootles, the youngest Lost Boy. He was almost as tall as Peter now and his voice had a little squeak, already on the verge of puberty and changing. Tootles saw Peter first and his eyes widened.
"Peter?!" Peter grinned and held out his arms, jumping as Tootles yelled "boys, come quick, it's Peter!" Tootles tumbled into Peter's arms, nearly knocking him back and he braced himself as the rest of the Boys ran into the room and rushed at Peter. John and Michael had joined their parents in their embrace of Wendy and the Goldbergs seemed to be considering leaving, thinking Peter and Wendy were quite capable to handle the evening. At that moment, however, Mrs. Darling straightened up and looked at the Goldbergs.
"Whoever you are, thank you for bringing our little girl home."
"Tis our pleasure, Madame, but she brought herself home. She and that lad there." Mr. Goldberg gestured toward Peter, who quickly attempted to disentangle himself from the Lost Boys thrashing arms and he bowed low to the Darlings. Mrs. Darling opened her mouth to make her inquiries but Wendy pulled herself away from her parents and took Peter's hand.
"Mother, Father, I've come to explain everything to you tonight. But first and foremost I want to tell you, I am no longer Wendy Darling. It's Wendy Pan now. And this is my husband, the love of my life, Peter." Peter gave them another deep bow, looking extremely nervous now. He heard the Boys all gasp collectively and one of the twins said, "Peter, you said you would never grow up!" Peter closed his eyes, wishing the boys would hurry off and play. Mr. and Mrs. Darling gaped at their daughter, unable to speak.
"Husband?" Mr. Darling said gruffly. Wendy nodded.
"Married?" Mrs. Darling repeated faintly. Wendy nodded again.
"But…but…how? When? And WHO is he?"
"We have much to discuss. Might we settle in the sitting room?"
"But…what are they…" Mrs. Darling trailed off, looking shocked at her own rudeness. She cleared her throat.
"Mr. and Mrs…er,… Pan?"
"Goldberg, Madame."
"Goldberg. Why don't you and your… son settle in the study while we talk to our daughter for a few moments? That is, if you don't mind? Then I'll add a few place settings to the table. We hope you can stay for dinner?" Mrs. Darling looked strained but the Goldbergs nodded graciously and Tootles, taking Peter's hand, led them all into the study and like a perfect gentlemen, poured them all tea.
Peter couldn't concentrate on his tea while he heard muffled voices in the next room. So far there hadn't been any yelling and that was always a good sign. The Goldbergs looked extremely uneasy and Peter felt a pang of guilt for making them come tonight. John entered the room with a tray of finger sandwiches and small tart, which he offered to the Goldbergs and Peter. Peter felt sick and politely refused and John set the tray on the table in front of them.
"So I suppose congratulations are in order, Peter," he said solemnly. Peter nodded, sipping at his tea.
"Perhaps while Wendy is talking to Mother and Father, you can tell us the story? We've all wondered where you disappeared to. The last time we saw you, you were returning to Neverland with Tinkerbell. After that, Wendy was kidnapped and that was the last of it." Peter shot the Goldbergs an anxious glance at John's words, hoping they wouldn't question anything. He tried to signal to John to stop talking, not to mention Neverland or Tinkerbell or flying or anything else that might make them suspicious. But Nibs stood next to John and stared at Peter for a moment before he spoke.
"It was Hook, wasn't it Peter? Hook kidnapped Wendy and took her to Neverland." Not being able to speak, Peter merely nodded.
"You've changed so much, Peter," Curly spoke up. "You were always the boy who would never grow up. You told us you didn't want to stay with us and with Wendy, that you wanted to fly around Neverland for the rest of your life." Peter felt his throat stick.
"People change, boys. They change for the ones they love. I changed. I fell in love with Wendy and decided to stay with her."
"So where have you two been all this time?" Michael asked with a slight frown. Glancing at the Goldbergs, Peter cleared his throat and scooted closer to the edge of the seat so he could lower his voice.
"Hook made us prisoner and Wendy was lost to me. We lost our memories and just recently found each other again."
"What does that mean, Wendy was lost to you? What could Hook have done to wipe away your memories?" Peter glanced up at John but his head gave a little shake and he said nothing. John's lips formed a thin line as he crossed his arms over his chest. Peter hoped Wendy was doing better with her parents than he was doing in here with the boys.
"I just don't understand, young lady. You say you've been with this Peter fellow all this time but why would he wait until now to bring you home? Why wait until now to marry? Oh dear lord, you're not…Wendy, say you haven't—" Mr. Darling cut himself off, looking quite pale. Wendy looked confused for a moment then her eyes widened in understanding and she shook her head.
"Father, I'm not with child. As I told you, I was kidnapped and Peter rescued me. We were treated horribly and my kidnapper sold me. We endured months without each other and gradually lost our memories amidst our terror. When we found each other again, our memories came flooding back and we remembered how in love we are."
"But Wendy, dear, you always told me Peter Pan was a little boy. That young man in there is not such a little boy." Wendy turned to her mother, taking her hand into her own.
"You knew about this Peter?" Mr. Darling asked roughly.
"When Wendy came home with the Lost Boys, she was very depressed for quite awhile. I recognized the signs of a broken heart and knew it had to be a boy. So I asked her about it and she told me of her adventures with Peter Pan. But he had chosen to stay in Neverland and never grow up."
"Such poppycock. Neverland. Peter Pan. Never grow up," Mr. Darling muttered. Wendy's eyes flashed.
"Where did the boys come from then? Nibs and Curly and the twins and Tootles and Slightly? We told you they were the Lost Boys and we had brought them from Neverland! John, Michael, and I even told you all about our adventure! I just left one vital part out of my story: Peter. It's not poppycock, Father, it's all very real. And Captain Hook kidnapped me and took me to Neverland and Peter tried to save me. He was captured in the process and Hook tortured us for months. I was starved and beaten and…raped," she ignored the gasp of horror from her mother and plowed on, her eyes still boring into her father's, "fourteen months we were made to endure the time without each other, neither of us really knowing who we were. As luck would have it, Peter was hired in the stables of Mr. Goldberg, a wealthy landowner who lived not far from where I was staying. He found me and my memories came flooding back. And he has proved in every way possible the extent of his love. Now we are leaving London and going somewhere no one knows of us, where no one can hurt us. I am sorry to barge in like this and be this honest but I had hoped I could spend some pleasant moments with you before I left. Now I see that was folly." She rose to leave but Mr. Darling grabbed her wrist. For a moment, Wendy thought she saw his eyes flash red and tried to take a step back away from him. But he rose with her and pulled her into his arms. She could hear him sobbing into her hair and realized she had never seen her father cry. Mrs. Darling watched this tender scene with a sad smile on her face before she wrapped her arms around them both and buried her face in her daughter's hair. Wendy's eyes were wide as she was held by her parents. Finally they let go of her and stepped back. Mrs. Darling stroked her face and smiled.
"I'm happy that you have found the love of your life." Wendy returned her smile and turned to her father.
"I-I won't pretend to understand, Wendy. I can't possibly…but it sounds to me that Peter is a good lad and will treat you right. But why can't you both create a home here, near us?" Wendy shook her head.
"I was recently attacked by some men I once knew in my old life. My past keeps coming back to harm me, Father, and Peter wants to get me away from it as soon as possible. We want to be happy and settle down and start a family. And we can't do that here. I'm sorry. But we can come visit often." Mr. Darling sighed and nodded.
"Wendy dear, what do those people in there have to do with all of this? The Goldbergs, I believe?"
"The Goldbergs are Peter's employers and have been like parents to him. They took him and gave him a real home. When Peter found me, they welcomed me with open arms and have treated us like their own. They have been nothing but supportive and agreed to come here in case you needed to speak to an adult about our situation. I didn't think it was necessary but naturally Peter wanted backup. Mrs. Goldberg is throwing us a wedding party and wanted to personally invite you all."
"Then let's go eat dinner and get to know these wonderful people who treat my daughter so well." Wendy squeezed her parents' hands and led the way into the study. Peter jumped up as soon as he saw them enter and Wendy took his hand.
"Everyone, I'd like to formally introduce my husband, Peter Pan, and my employers, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Goldberg." Peter shook hands with the Darlings and the Goldbergs rose to their feet and bowed their heads to the Darlings. Mr. Darling kissed Mrs. Goldberg's hand and vice versa and the Lost Boys continued to hug Peter. Michael clung onto Wendy and she and John stood arm in arm. It was a happy scene and Mrs. Darling suddenly realized they were late for dinner when she straightened up and invited everyone to the dining alcove.
It was a pleasant evening and Peter admitted to himself that he enjoyed himself. When it came time to leave there were many hugs, tearful goodbyes, wringing of hands, and more hugs. Peter blushed when Mrs. Darling flung her arms around him and pleaded for him to take good care of her child.
"With my life, Madame," Peter replied, patting her arm.
"We will see you all on Saturday next then," Mrs. Goldberg said, hugging Mrs. Darling goodbye.
"Oh Wendy, don't leave so soon! You and Peter stay the night with us! Tell us stories," Michael pleaded and the rest of the boys joined in.
"Yes, please stay with us! You can have my bed." Wendy laughed and glanced at Peter, who returned her smile.
"If you wish it," he said with a smile and a shrug.
"We'd be happy to make up a bed for you, Peter. We can take you and Wendy back to the Goldbergs' tomorrow, if you should like." Mr. Goldberg nodded.
"Yes lad, that sounds like a fine idea. I can drive the carriage home."
"If you're sure, sir-"
"Of course. Stay with your new family tonight." He clapped Peter on the shoulder and he and Mrs. Goldberg took their leave. Wendy shrugged off her coat and placed hers and Peter's back in the closet.
"Mother, Father…might Peter and I stay in the nursery tonight?"
"The nursery? Whatever for?" Wendy didn't say anything but she glanced at Peter and their eyes met. He grinned broadly, knowing exactly why she wanted to stay there with him. It was where they had first met, where he had first laid eyes on her and thought she was the most beautiful creature he had ever seen. It was where they had exchanged kisses, where he had swept her off to Neverland, where he had promised her an adventure. Mrs. Darling noticed their smiles and although she did not completely understand, she was a wise woman and merely nodded.
"That will be fine, dears."
"But Mary, really-"
"They're not children, George, and they are husband and wife now. Now boys remember you have school tomorrow. Do go to sleep soon." Mrs. Darling kissed Wendy on her forehead and hugged Peter again, before kissing each of the boys and retiring to her room. Mr. Darling glanced back at Peter and Wendy before he followed her up the stairs. When they had gone, Tootles let out a long sigh.
"Glad that's over! The most awkward evening in the history of the world."
"I didn't think it was so bad," Wendy said with a little frown.
"I quite enjoyed myself," Peter said, crossing his arms. They followed the boys upstairs to their room and Wendy was shocked to see they still shared a room.
"When we move we are getting our own rooms," Nibs explained. Wendy's eyes widened.
"Move? To where?"
"We're not certain yet," John said, settling himself in a chair near the window. "Father is getting offers from the bank and Mother seems to pushing him toward a particular one. I can't imagine leaving this house. So many memories here." He looked around the room with a smile.
"Come on! Let's go to the nursery," Michael said with a broad grin. He pulled Wendy's hand and they all followed him into the nursery. Wendy let out a little gasp when she saw her old room. It looked exactly as it did the last time she had been in it.
"Look what we found, Wendy!" Michael dragged her over to the little chest of drawers and handed her a yellowed paper that was folded up several times. Puzzled, she opened it and gasped, discovering the drawing she had done after she had first woken up to find Peter hovering over her bed. It was the drawing that had gotten her into trouble at school, a note sent to her parents expressing outrage that she was imagining a boy above her bed. Peter peered over her shoulder and let out a laugh.
"What is that supposed to be?"
"Mean boy. That's you."
"Looks nothing like me," he said with a smirk. She narrowed her eyes and hit his arm. He snatched it from her hand and studied it more closely.
"You're a terrible artist, Wendy. And what are these wings you've given me? Are you sure you even saw me that night?"
"Oh be quiet. I was twelve and half asleep when I woke up to find a boy flying over my bed. What on earth was I to think?" She yanked it back and folded it up. He grinned and threw his arms around her waist, pulling him back to her. Bringing his mouth close to her ear he whispered, "I thought you were the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. I even tried to touch you, to see if you were really there. I knew from that moment that I had to make you mine."
"And you did," she whispered back, turning her head to kiss him. The Lost Boys all let out 'ewws' and 'gross' and the couple broke away, grinning.
"Come on boys, it's way past your bedtime," John straightened up and announced.
"Aww Peter, can't we stay up a little longer?"
"Hey, I'm no longer your leader, you haven't followed my orders in years. Listen to your brother now." The boys all sighed and hugged Peter and Wendy before they trudged off to their room. Michael leaned up to kiss Wendy's cheek before he followed them. John was last and he stood close to his sister.
"Someday I hope to hear the story. For now, congratulations to you both. I have missed you, dearest, and wish you both the very best." He kissed her cheek, nodded to Peter, and closed the nursery door behind him. Smiling, Wendy draped herself across the windowsill and stared out at the stars. Peter went to join her and she brought his arms around her waist.
"I used to sit here for hours and stare up at that star, dreaming of you and wishing for you to come back to me."
"I'm sorry it took me so long. I plan to spend the rest of my life making it up to you," he whispered in her ear, causing her to shiver. His arms tightened around her.
"I remember coming to this window with Tink and just listening to your stories. I watched you and John and Michael play and thought how lively and fun you seemed. I fell in love with the sound of your voice and came back every night to listen and to watch you. I finally got the nerve to come into the room and see you up close and that's when you saw me. My god, that seems like ages ago."
"It's been almost 6 years. How time may change us." She gasped and spun around. "You watched me? Peter, I was a little girl! What did you see?"
"Nothing," he said quickly but a little grin lingered.
"Peter! What did you see?"
"Relax Wendy, it's not like I always spied on you. I may have seen you changing for bed once or twice but that's—" Wendy slapped his arm and he laughed, rubbing the spot she had slapped him. "Ouch! Hey, what does it matter? Everything I saw now belongs to me."
"You little sneak. That's just disturbing to think about. You didn't even know what a girl was supposed to look like. Except for those horrible mermaids and they're far more beautiful than me."
"The mermaids are nothing compared to you. That's what I thought then, that's what I think now." He pushed a curl out of her eyes and lowered his mouth to her ear.
"Forget them, Wendy. Forget them all." She shivered in delight as she remembered how he had whispered those words and it had excited her as much then as it did now, though admittedly for different reasons. Slowly he lowered his lips to hers and wrapped his fingers in her curls. She placed her hands against his chest and moaned against his mouth, feeling her knees buckling. His strong arms went to her back and slowly made their way down to cup her round buttocks. She squealed into his mouth and he let out a low chuckle, making her writhe in his arms. Not breaking their kiss, his hands went to the front of her dress and quickly worked on the buttons. He flung it aside and he felt his arousal harden when he saw her standing in nothing but her corset. His eyes and hands traveled over her slender frame and with a growl, he flung her around and reaching around, grasped her curves. He bent down to lavish her neck with his tongue and her arms went up to his hair, clutching at his curls. Peter' growled with frustration as he fumbled with the stays of her corset. Finally, he whipped out his knife from his jacket and sliced through the cords, peeling it away from her tantalizing flesh. Still sucking at her throat, his hand found her firm breast and he kneaded it gently, causing her to press into him. Her backside brushed against his hardened arousal and he sucked in a breath through his clenched teeth. He lifted her in his arms and carried her to the bed, leaning down to conquer her mouth. Wendy arched against the bed, her arms over her head curling into the sheets. Her eyes darkened with desire as she noticed how clothed he was compared to her and she made quick work of his clothes, having them off in minutes. His golden body arched over hers and her lips curled into a smile.
"Now this is a familiar sight. This beautiful boy hovering over me." Peter reached out and traced her lips, as he had done those many years ago.
"I don't know if I would have been this bold 6 years ago."
"Probably a good thing. I was more of a proper lady back then anyway," she said with a sly smile. As she spoke, her hand gently found his length and he jumped at her caress. Keeping her eyes locked on his, she stroked up and down making his arms shake underneath him.
"Wendy," he moaned.
"Yes my love?" she purred in reply. Her hand quickened in pace and she continued to stroke him as he leaned down and his lips latched onto her flesh. Dripping with want and need for him, she brought her legs up around him and pushed on his backside, bringing him into contact with her wet heat. He moaned as he felt his tip barely touch her and he felt how wet and ready she was. Using one hand to support him, his other hand gently traced her face before he leaned down to kiss her again. As he did, he slid into her, ever so gently, both of them moaning as they were joined together for the first time in days. Wendy threw her head back, her eyes half closed, her lips parted as she allowed the pleasure to overtake her. Peter started to move slowly, grinding his hips against hers and knew he wouldn't be able to last long. It felt like eternity since he had been with her and he had been so close when Wendy's hand dropped back to her side. He tried to go gently but his passion took over and he started thrusting harder and faster. She let out a little yelp and her ankles pushed against him, urging him to go even deeper. Feeling himself getting closer, he leaned down and sucked at her neck, loving her sweet scent of sunshine and honey. Wendy's eyes closed as she rode out her climax and she let out a little 'oh' when she felt him release seconds later. He collapsed on top of her, his breathing heavy and his body shaking over hers. Peter decided he never wanted to break his intimate embrace with her as long as he should live; it was too wonderful being joined with her. He rolled them both onto their sides and held her in his arms, listening to her heart beat rapidly.
"I love you, Wendy Darling…Pan." She looked up at him and smiled.
"I love you too, Peter. More than life itself."