Well, this is it. The final chapter and the wedding that took me three years to write. This chapter is ridiculously long: 12,100 words.
Enjoy!
Chapter 41: The LoVe Wedding
******December 30th ******
Veronica woke up in Logan's arms and smiled. Just one more day. She never knew how excited she would get over a wedding, even her own. She hadn't thought a ceremony and a piece of paper could mean so much to her. Her heart and soul already felt bound and committed to Logan. However, Logan must be rubbing off on her in more ways than she realized. She rose up and kissed his cheek and tried to slip out of the bed without waking him.
Logan's hand snaked out and grabbed hers, pulling her back to the bed. "Where do you think you're going, sugarpuss?" he asked, giving her a sleepy smile.
"Trina will kill me if I lay in bed. We have a hundred minor details to finalize before the dress rehearsal tonight," Veronica said.
"What am I supposed to do again?" he asked.
"Don't even joke like that!" Veronica scolded. "You got to go pick up all the tuxes or call Wallace to do it. You also have to finalize the music list. It should've been done earlier but with all the people being shot and attacked, we were a little distracted!"
He grinned. "Very true. Luckily, Jazmin's going to be okay, and the monster has been slain. Plus, I must rather play in bed with you," he said with a smirk.
"That's what the honeymoon is for!" she said with a saucy grin. Then she gave him a quick kiss and jumped up before he could protest again.
Logan sat up after she left and stretched. A huge smile split his face. Tomorrow was the day. She would never get away from him now!
******Kanes'******
Duncan was trying and failing to convince Lily to take off her flower girl dress. However, she had put it on as soon as she woke up. The dress rehearsal later in the day and the wedding tomorrow night guaranteed her two days to wear it. She was overjoyed.
"Lily, honey, you can't wear that all day. You will get it dirty, and it won't be so beautiful," Duncan said, trying to coax her. Negotiating with pre-schoolers was the hardest thing to do. She was both willful and charming, so it was hard, at times, to be stern with her like he knew he probably should be.
The doorbell rang. "Stacy, do you want to see if you can talk her into putting on a different dress at least? I don't think she should wear that dress until tomorrow. She can wear the other dress Veronica bought her today. Then we won't have to worry about getting it cleaned," Duncan told his nanny before he headed to answer the door.
"Logan? Hey! What brings you buy?" he asked, welcoming in his best friend.
"I just picked up the tuxes. Here's yours," Logan said, handing it to him.
"If you just stuck with a simple black tux, I wouldn't have had to buy another one," Duncan said.
"Are you kidding? I have a golden opportunity to force Weevil in a tux, so it has to have a tail," Logan said with a grin. "I was going to add top hats and gloves, but the old ball and chain vetoed it."
Duncan laughed. "Ball and chain? Already?" he asked in amusement.
"I'm trying out new nicknames," Logan said gleefully.
"Logie!" Lily exclaimed, running up to him with her arms held out.
Logan bent down and picked her up. "I see you're already dressed for the wedding," he observed, grinning at her.
"Stacy says I have to wear another dress 'cause I might get this one dirty, but I won't. Tell her, Logie!" Lilly ordered.
"Well, Veronica did buy you two very beautiful dresses. Don't you want to be able to wear both of them, so everyone gets to see you in both?" Logan suggested in a reasonable tone.
"Okay," she said happily.
"Let's go change," Stacy said to her, holding out her hand.
Logan put her down, and she ran toward her nanny. Duncan shook his head in bemusement. "I said that very thing like four times!" Duncan said.
Logan chuckled. "She's a peach," he said.
They walked into the living room and sat down. Duncan threw the garment bag on a chair and sat down next to Logan on the sofa.
"So is everything set?" Duncan asked.
"Yep. I just talked to Piz about the final song," Logan said. When Duncan grimaced at the mention of Piz's name, Logan added, "You know Piz will be singing at the wedding, right?"
"And here I thought we were best friends," Duncan said sourly.
"Hey, he's got a nice voice and is free!" Logan said. "He's not the only one singing, though. Alicia is also. Now that woman is on a whole other level!"
"So I get to watch Parker get all gooey-eyed over her wanna-be rock star?" Duncan asked glumly.
Logan smirked. "So what are you going to do? Look like a pathetic lovesick puppy pining away at her feet?" he asked.
Duncan glared at him. "Yeah, 'cause you were so indifferent when I was dating Veronica senior year," he said pointedly.
"Ouch!" Logan replied with a wince at the reminder. "Fine. Why don't you bring a date?"
Duncan looked thoughtful. "I guess that'd be better, wouldn't it?"
"Yes, it most definitely would," Logan said.
"I'd ask Daisy, but she was pretty annoyed with me the other day. Plus, she disappeared yesterday with Jason, so who knows what's going on with her?" Duncan mused.
"Also, she's already going to be there. You want to make it obvious that the girl is your date, so Parker will know," Logan said.
"I can't just ask some random girl. Weddings are special. A girl could get the wrong idea," Duncan said.
Stacy reappeared with Lily in the other dress. "Lily wanted to show off her dress," Stacy said with a fond smile at her charge.
"Why don't you ask Stacy? I'm sure she'll like getting to dress up and free food and music. Plus, she's a few years older than you, so I doubt she'll start planning her wedding to you," Logan suggested with a sly grin.
Stacy looked startled. "Uh, what?" she asked.
Duncan looked embarrassed. "Logan, I am not becoming a cliché. I've had enough problems in my life. Billionaire son dating the nanny is not an aspiration of mine!" Duncan said.
"Excuse me?" Stacy said in dismay. "Dating you is not an inspiration of mine! My boyfriend would be very unhappy!"
Logan grinned. "See, she's perfect! She's attractive and not available. Perfect decoy date," Logan said.
"Forgive him, Stacy. He's trying to keep me from looking pathetic at the wedding and wants me to ask you to come as my date," Duncan explained.
"He's still pining for Parker, who will be there swooning over Piz," Logan added. "He's singing at the wedding."
"Oh," Stacy said in bemusement. She loved taking care of Lilly. It was the perfect job while she obtained her graduate degree. A conflict with her boss would not be a good thing.
"I'm sorry, Stacy. You don't have to go to the wedding with me," Duncan said.
"Oh, Stacy's gotta go! She has to see me in my dress and watch me throw down the flowers!" Lily exclaimed excited at the new idea.
"Let me talk to my boyfriend. If he doesn't mind, I'll be happy to be your date," Stacy said easily.
"He'll even buy you a new dress in return," Logan offered.
Duncan threw him another glare, but he just smirked.
"That's not necessary, but thanks. I have one I could wear. It's a beach wedding, right?"
"Yes," Duncan said.
"If she can't come, we can get Thea to ask one of her sorority sisters. A few of them helped with the invitations," Logan suggested.
Although Duncan was a bit embarrassed by Logan's manipulation, he did think having a date would be better than not. Maybe if Parker saw him with another woman, she'd be bothered. Duncan sighed. Who was he kidding? She probably wouldn't even notice.
******Rehearsal Dinner******
After the wedding rehearsal was over, Duncan was very glad that he'd listened to Logan. Even Duncan couldn't deny that Piz sounded great singing "Without You". Watching Parker beaming proudly made him want to throw up. Would it ever get any easier? Luckily, he had his daughter to distract him. He tried talking to Daisy, but she seemed in her own world, obviously distracted.
"Dick, do you have the rings?" Veronica asked, not for the first time.
"Chillax, Ronnie! I got this!" Dick said with a huge grin.
"I'm sorry, but if you misplace the rings before the ceremony, it'll really put a damper on things," Veronica said as patiently as she could manage.
"Don't worry, Veronica. I'm keeping track of the rings until right before the ceremony," Mac said with a smile.
Dick put his arm around her. "See. We got this! Mac is, like, my superpower! I can't go wrong!" he said gleefully.
Not for the first time, Veronica thanked God that Dick had Mac. She wasn't sure how well she'd deal with her soon-to-be husband's best friend without Mac there to balance out his annoying parts.
"Are you sure you want to go through with this?" Keith asked Veronica, a twinkle in his eye. "It's not too late to call it off. Leo is still single." He flashed Logan a teasing grin.
Logan opened his mouth to protest when Veronica burst out laughing. "Dad, you might as well suck it up. You're stuck with him," she said, putting her arm around Logan's waist and leaning into him.
"And here I thought we'd grown so close," Logan said dryly.
Keith laughed and slapped him on the back. "You know I was kidding. I wouldn't want anyone else to spend their life taking care of my daughter. No one else will love her so much! This I know," Keith said confidently.
It warmed Logan's insides to hear the man he so admired say that to him. It hadn't been too long ago that Keith didn't feel that way at all.
They went inside to the Hyatt's private dining area they'd reserved for the dinner.
Jason tried talking to Daisy. However, she was pointedly ignoring him.
"Why are you acting this way?" he asked her. She had made a point of sitting in between Mac and Parker, trying to cut him off. However, he stood behind her, refusing to sit down until she looked at him.
"Now is not the time," she said firmly.
"I want to talk to you," he said.
"Too bad," she replied. She took a sip of the glass of wine the waiter had just filled.
"Why are you so stubborn?" he asked in frustration.
She finally smiled at him. "It's part of my charm," she said easily.
Jason bent down and whispered, "You won't always be in a crowd. You won't always be able to ignore what is between us."
"We'll see," she said with a shrug. Then she dismissed him completely and started talking to Duncan, who was sitting directly across from him.
Eli came up behind him. "Daisy making you work for it still?" he asked.
Jason grimaced and followed him further down the table to an open chair. "You wouldn't believe it!" he grumbled. "She let me get awfully close yesterday, but today she's freezing me out again! I swear the woman is going to give me actual gray hairs!"
Jazmin was sitting on Eli's other side and frowned at his comment. "Jason, if she can't appreciate how great you are, then maybe you should move on. There are plenty of girls out there who wouldn't be so cavalier about you," Jazmin said.
"But I don't want other girls. I want her," Jason said firmly.
"But why? I still don't get it. She's sexy and can be amusing, but that describes a lot of girls on this campus," Jazmin said.
"Well, why are you with Eli? You could be with anyone? What makes him so special?" Jason asked pointedly.
"Hey, there's no one like me!" Eli exclaimed with a grin.
Jason smiled. "Well, that's a given," he said dryly.
"You love who you love, though. I get it," Eli said. He turned to Jazmin. "Daisy is wicked smart, but she's not in your face with it. Her humor hits you in the face every time. She's a master manipulator and is highly entertaining to watch!"
"Not necessarily a good quality," Jazmin complained.
"She's my match," Jason said simply. "If you can't see that, then maybe you don't know me as well as you think you do."
Jazmin looked startled at his words, a flash of hurt in her eyes. Eli put an arm around her, glaring at Jason. "Hey, you don't have to be mean!" he admonished.
"I'm sorry. It's just in some ways no one will ever know me better than you, Jazmin. Nor will anyone, even Eli, know you like I know you. We've had nineteen years to build on," Jason said. "But Eli will know you in ways I won't. If you and he stay together, one day you'll have decades with him. He will be closer to you than me. The same will be for me with the woman I spend the rest of my life with. I don't know if that'll be Daisy. Right now, I don't want anyone but her. I can't even think of anyone but her. I'd like her to know me in ways you can't."
Jazmin nodded; she understood. She didn't get Daisy's appeal, but she did respect her brother enough to trust his instincts. He wouldn't waste his time or energy on anyone that wasn't worth it. However, she just couldn't fathom any woman not loving her brother if he pursued her. Daisy's unwillingness to forgive her brother was incomprehensible to Jazmin. It wasn't like he'd cheated on her or even mistreated her. He just asked for some time and space.
"I just want you to be happy," she told him.
"I will be. She'll come around eventually," Jason said confidently. "She loves me. She's just punishing me."
"So how long do you think that'll go on?" Eli asked with a grin.
"I don't know. Why don't you go ask her?" Jason suggested.
Eli laughed and shook his head. Veronica, who was sitting across from Eli, asked Jazmin, "How are you feeling?"
"Much better. I'm keeping the sling on today, so that tomorrow my shoulder will be well rested," Jazmin said.
"I'm just glad that you can wear the dress still," Veronica remarked. "We could've added some matching shawls to all the dresses, but it may have been a challenge to get done in such a short time."
"Yes, I'm relieved, too. Of course, it would've been okay if I stepped down as a bridesmaid. I'd still be there to support you on your big day," Jazmin said.
"Not an option!" Logan said. "Then Weevil would've tried to back out. I picked out the tuxes just for him!"
Eli glared at him. "You're a real prince," he said sarcastically. "I'll remember this the next time you ask me for a favor."
"Hey, not only was it worth it, but we're practically going to be in-laws! You can't say no to me ever!" Logan said smugly.
"Don't gloat, sweetie. It's not attractive!" Veronica said to him.
Logan laughed. "It's okay. I don't mind not being attractive if I get to annoy Weevil!" he said gleefully.
Veronica rolled her eyes. "Sorry, Weevil. He's going to be punished. He doesn't know this yet, but he's spending the night with Dick tonight," Veronica said. Eli gave Logan a smug look of satisfaction and then chuckled at Logan's look of surprise.
"I am?" Logan asked in shock. Then he realized what that meant and shook his head. "Hell no!"
"Logan, you cannot stay with me the night before the wedding!" Veronica informed him. "Not only are you not supposed to see me before the wedding, but one day a way will make the wedding night even more special!"
Eli snickered. "Poor Logan. Not going to get lucky tonight!" he said with a wide grin.
Logan shot him a dark look but turned back to Veronica. "Since when are you superstitious or care about tradition?" he asked her pointedly.
"Since I decided to be traditional and actually marry you instead of living in sin," Veronica replied without missing a beat.
"It really will make the wedding night more exciting," her mom added.
Veronica smiled at her mother in thanks for her support. It was good that her mom was there. She didn't realize how great she'd feel having her mom a part of things. Tomorrow, Logan's brother and sister-in-law would be coming, and Trina would finally meet Charlie. Their family was already growing, and they weren't even married yet. She couldn't believe how lucky she was. Even though losing her baby still pained her, she drew comfort in her friends and family. They gave her strength. She'd felt so alone for so long after Lilly died. But now she felt rich. She had an abundance of love and support in her friends and family. Her goddaughter and nephew filled the spot inside of her that still hungered for more. She knew that one day they'd have their own family. Until then, she was more than content with what she had. Veronica knew how lucky and blessed she was. Only the truly lonely could ever truly appreciate it when their lives changed for the better. Loneliness was no longer her constant companion. No battles did she ever have to fight alone. Now she had so many in her life that she knew she could face whatever life threw at her.
She leaned over and kissed Logan. He made everything so much more. Her father had given her so much love in her life that she knew and recognized the real thing when she found it. Logan's love for her would never fail her. She knew this.
"I love you," she said softly, her heart in her eyes.
"I love you, too," he replied, brushing her hair back from her face in a tender gesture. He would hate every second he was away from her, but he knew she had a point. Their wedding night was going to be amazing.
******The Big Day*****
Logan opened his eyes; he was wide awake. The sun was barely over the horizon, and he'd stayed up until one trying to convince Veronica to have phone sex with him. However, he was full energy and awareness. He sat up in one of Dick's extra bedrooms, a huge grin splitting his face. Today was the day.
"I'm getting married!" he exclaimed to the empty room. Hearing the words made it even more real. He hopped out of bed and went across the hall, banging on Dick's door. The irony of the role reversal was not lost on him. He barged in without waiting for a reply.
"Dick, time to get up! We got to commemorate my big day!" Logan informed him with a grin.
Dick sat up and rubbed his eyes. Then he looked at Logan. "Surfing?" he asked hopefully.
"What else?" Logan asked.
"We gotta make Wally and Weevil go, too!" Dick exclaimed, thrilled at the thought.
"I don't know if Weevil can surf or not," Logan said.
"So. We can drag him out of bed and to the water anyway. That'll be lots of fun!" Dick said eagerly.
Logan laughed. "I like how your mind works!" he said with a smirk. "You get Wallace. I'll go downstairs and rouse Weevil out of bed. It's my wedding day, so he has to say yes!"
"Dude, how long you gonna milk that excuse?" Dick asked as he got out of bed.
"All day!" Logan replied before stepping out of the room.
Thirty minutes later, Logan and Dick had succeeded in convincing both men to come by telling them that it was a part of their groomsmen duties.
"So tell me again how surfing is a part of my responsibilities as a groomsman?" Weevil said with a sour expression. They got out of Dick's truck, grabbing their surfboards. Dick had given him Cassidy's old board.
"You gotta give the surfing gods their props, and the big Dude in the sky," Dick said. "It's for luck."
"I love surfing. I love Veronica. Today is the day I make her mine forever. Of course, I want to start the day with surfing," Logan said simply.
"All I wanna know is are we going to film Eli on a surfboard? 'Cause V won't believe me!" Wallace exclaimed.
"I have surfed before," Weevil said, giving him a disgruntled look. "Maybe I was ten the last time, but I spent a whole summer at the beach once with one of my cousins."
"See, he'll be fine," Logan said. "Besides, he doesn't have to stand up on the board if he doesn't want to. He just has to paddle out with us."
"That I can do," Weevil said. "But if the cold water makes me ill, you have to make me chicken soup." He directed his comment to Dick, who laughed at the thought of playing nursemaid to the former PCHer.
In no time, the four men were a bit away from the shore on the boards just looking out the water. Not many people went surfing in December, so the beach was deserted.
"Sometimes, I'm not sure what I love more. The calm and beauty of the water before I get on the board or the view and exhilaration of being on it, riding a wave," Logan mused as he gazed around them.
"I love it all," Dick said.
"So are you ready?" Wallace asked Logan.
"Most definitely," Logan said firmly.
"Now she's gonna be stuck with him!" Dick said, grinning.
Logan smiled. It wasn't necessary for him to reply. They all knew there was no one else he'd rather be stuck with.
*******The Beach House********
Trina knocked on Veronica's bedroom door. "It's ten o'clock. The manicurist is coming in an hour. Jazmin, Mac, and Parker are already here," Trina said after she walked into the room.
Veronica yawned sleepily. "It's ten already?"
"I can't believe you're still in bed. I'd be too excited to sleep," Trina remarked.
"Your brother kept me on the phone until late," Veronica said. "He's very needy."
Trina grinned knowingly. "You mean he tried to get you to have phone sex," she said. Then added. "Or did he succeed?"
Veronica stretched. "I don't sex and tell," she said airily.
Trina laughed. "My brother is so predictable sometime!" she exclaimed. "Luckily, you're not."
"Speaking of brothers," Veronica said. "Are you ready to meet your other one?"
Trina rolled her eyes. "He's not my brother. I'm adopted. I was raised with Logan. That's why I claim him," Trina said.
"You and Logan don't have a lot of family to claim to begin with. You shouldn't be so dismissive of a brother. I wish I had had one growing up," Veronica said.
"Now you're, like, tripping over brothers," Trina said with a smile. She started counting them off with her fingers. "Wallace, Weevil, Dick, and Duncan. Not sure yet if Jason is in that category, but he's ultra-cute. I wouldn't mind taking him for a test drive!"
Veronica gave her a shocked look. "Trina! He's a year younger than us, which makes him like 7 years younger than you!"
"Like age matters," Trina said with a shrug. "Demi is much older than Ashton."
"Yeah, but that'll never last," Veronica said.
Mac came in. "Is Sleeping Beauty finally awake?"
Veronica smiled. "Yep. Is there any coffee left?" Veronica asked.
"Go get in the shower, and I will have a fresh pot started just for you," Mac said.
Veronica got up. She stopped in front of Mac and said with a joyful look, "I'm getting married."
Mac smiled at her. "I know you are," she said. She gave Veronica a hug.
Veronica flashed the girls a happy smile. The day was finally here.
*******The Hyatt Regency*******
Veronica gazed at herself in the full length mirror the hotel supplied. It was still hard to believe she was the girl in the mirror. The Winnie Couture dress was stunning and elegant. She had Lilly's necklace as her something old. Alicia had given her a new blue garter, so all the traditions were covered.
"You look so perfect!" Trina enthused. The girls surrounded her. She and Lily were wearing matching tiaras. Lily was beside herself with joy.
"You look like a princess!" Lily said, clapping her hands excitedly.
Veronica looked around at her bridal party. "You all look quite stunning yourselves," she observed. And they did. All were mirroring her by wearing their hair loose with enough curl to give their hair body. Daisy, though, had her own natural curls cascading down her back. "I'm not sure which of us is the most beautiful!"
"You are!" Lily assured her. "Mac is second. Then me. Then Parker."
The girls laughed, knowing she was ranking them according to her own preference.
"I guess we need to start spending more time with her," Daisy said to Jazmin, unoffended. Jazmin laughed in agreement.
There was a knock at the door. Alicia moved to open it. "If everyone is decent, the parents of the bride would like a minute with our daughter," Keith said with a grin.
Veronica smiled at her mom, who had stepped out to confirm the time with the priest. "They're ready. All the boys are assembled and looking sharp," Leanne said happily.
"Ladies, let's get ready!" Trina said beaming.
Alicia kissed Veronica's cheek and reached down to take Lily's hand. She smiled at Leanne and led the girls out of the room to give them some privacy.
Keith looked at Veronica and felt his throat lock up with emotion. It was finally here. The day he would officially give her away to another man. He knew this day would come. He'd hoped it be a few more years down the road, but he was so happy that his daughter had found someone to love her the way Keith had always wanted. He reached out and took her hand. Leanne grabbed her other.
"I just can't believe you both are here at my wedding," Veronica remarked.
"I'm so happy for you sweetheart," Leanne said, her eyes wet.
"Your mom and I have made mistakes. But the one thing we got right was you. No parents could have a better daughter. Nor could they be prouder than we are. You're everything we ever wanted. Not once have you let us down. Instead, you pushed us to be better people. It humbles me to have a daughter that I don't just love, but I admire," Keith said to her.
Veronica felt tears welling up. "You can't make me cry! Trina will kill me if I mess up my make-up!" she scolded with a warm smile.
They laughed. Then they stood a moment in a group hug. No amount of ugly history or time apart could ever erase the real bonds between them. Leanne was just so grateful to be allowed back in her daughter's life. She would've hated herself forever if she had missed being a part of this.
"Well, I guess it's time," Keith finally said, stepping back. "You look beautiful, honey."
"Thanks, Dad. For everything. You're the best man I know. You've given me so much. I love you," she said. She looked at her mom and smiled warmly. "I love both of you."
"I love you, too, sweetie," her mom said, smiling.
The guests were all waiting patiently outside while the bride had a private moment with her parents. Jason was seating the guests. After he sat the mothers of the bride, it was time to start. Piz stood at the keyboard and began to play while the bridesmaids lined up. Jason watched Daisy walk down the aisle. His heart stopped. She was the most beautiful, sexy woman he'd ever seen. When she smiled knowingly at him, he knew that she knew it. He chuckled and gave her a wink.
The hotel had a path that connected directly to the beach area where the ceremony was taking place. The sand, of course, was covered. A flowered covered archway was at both ends. Keith and Veronica took their spot at the end of the processional, ready to go.
Trina carried Richie on her right hip and the ring pillow on her left. "Too bad you guys couldn't wait six months or so. He'd be walking. This would look better," she said to Veronica as they walked ahead down the aisle. Veronica thought Richie looked perfect the way he was now and blew him a kiss.
Logan stood by the priest watching with a big grin as his sister walked his nephew down the aisle. Richie had on a miniature version of Logan's tux. The exception was the jaunting little hat on his head. He was awake and waving his hands excitedly. Naturally, Dick had to wave at him.
"Here comes the little princess," Logan said as Lily very solemnly began her walk, throwing small handfuls of flowers. She'd pause every few feet and strike a pose. The photographer snapped her photo several times.
Duncan laughed at his angel. Then it was time. Veronica and Keith stood at the archway, and Logan's eyes locked on hers. He'd seen her countless times, but she still made his heart race. Today, her beauty seemed to eclipse all other days.
"This is it," Dick whispered. "No backing out now!"
Logan ignored him as the Bridal March began to play. Everyone stood and faced the bride.
She was so perfect. Logan hadn't even been allowed to see a picture of her dress. It hugged her figure in all the right places. She and Keith stopped in front of him. Keith took her hand and joined it with Veronica's. Then he kissed her cheek and took his seat.
Veronica flashed Logan a smile. He mouthed, "You are so beautiful." Her smile got wider. They stood there a moment gazing into each other's eyes. Neither could hardly believe the time had come. It seemed like a dream.
Then Alicia took the mike and began to sing a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Elvis's "I can't help falling in love with you." Veronica's eyes were watching Alicia, but Logan couldn't take his eyes off of her. He wished he was the one singing because the e song was so perfect. Loving her had been inevitable. When she glanced at him, the look in his eyes captured her. Alicia's voice became a background noise as she was trapped in his gaze.
The audience couldn't help but give Alicia an enthusiastic clapping. Dick let out a loud whistle. "Your mom is wicked talented!" he said to Wallace.
The priest performing the wedding was Duncan's priest. Logan and Veronica weren't a part of any church, and since the wedding was not in a Catholic Church, he was happy to perform it. They had attended a counseling session with him. Both were comfortable with their choice. The holy man looked out and smiled at the audience.
"We are gathered on the last day of the year to celebrate the union of Logan Echolls and Veronica Mars. We have come together in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness and bless the joining of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. Marriage is an ancient tradition as old as earth itself. God performed the first wedding ceremony in the Garden of Eden. Marriage is considered the pinnacle of human relationships, embodying a unique kind of intimacy, and love is the seal that holds it together through the good times and bad. I had the privilege of first meeting this young couple when they were appointed godparents of Lily Kane. When they asked me to perform their wedding, I was honored. They may be young in years, but it's rare to see a couple so in love, to have such clear vision of the future they want for one another. They are determined to build an amazing life together. Although marriage is not something to enter into lightly, I have no doubt that this young couple is ready for the challenge," the priest said, smiling at the two in front of him. "They have each prepared promises they want to make to one another." He looked at Logan to begin.
Logan's voice rang out clear and strong. The son of two actors, he knew how to perform. This was the most important role of his life, and he was determined to make it unforgettable. "I wanted to recite one of my favorite poems that expresses, so well how much I love you," he said to Veronica. "It's by Elizabeth Barrett Browning."
He surprised everyone but Veronica by reciting it by memory, while gazing lovingly into her eyes.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, - I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! - and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
Veronica, I don't know that love can be measured. But that's how I feel. That I love you to the very depths my heart and soul can possibly reach."
Veronica had to swallow against the wave of emotion at his heartfelt words. She vowed to not cry. She still had to get through her own vows!
"You and I have had quite a ride, haven't we?"
Veronica gave a soft chuckle. Logan looked out at their friends, who were smiling happily at them. His eyes focused back on her. "You changed my life. It's as simple as that. I'm not sure exactly when I first fell in love with you. Was it when you were twelve in those knee socks? Was it years later? I don't exactly remember the moment. After we lost Lilly, we were both so shattered. To say I handled it badly would be an understatement." Veronica smiled and nodded in agreement. He gave her a wink. "You made me so angry, but you were all I could think about." He grinned at her. "You got under my skin. Then it all changed the day I first kissed you. It was like wham! Nothing was ever the same after that first kiss. Then suddenly I loved you. Naturally, you dumped me for my best friend."
The audience broke out in laughter as he looked pointedly at Duncan standing next to Dick. Dick put his arm around Duncan's shoulders and gave him a noogie. Duncan pushed him off him. Logan laughed softly at their antics before turning back to his bride. "But eventually you came to your senses."
Veronica couldn't help but laugh now. "I'm not so sure about that!" she said.
He grinned and squeezed her hand affectionately. "Loving you and being loved by you is the most amazing experience of my life. As your husband, I promise to love you all our days, to cherish you, to take care of you–when you're not busy taking care of me, of course." The audience laughed. "I promise to mostly stay out of trouble and not do anything to screw up your dad's re-election bid."
More laughter. Keith couldn't refrain from calling out, "You better not!"
Logan flashed his father-in-law a smile. "But mostly, I promise to be the best husband I can be for the rest of our lives." Then he leaned over and whispered, "And I promise to make mad, passionate love to you every night."
"No matter your age?" she couldn't help but ask with a grin.
"Try to stop me!" he vowed.
Veronica laughed. "Well, I guess it's my turn. Mine won't take nearly as long. I'm not much for speeches or poetry recitations," she said, giving him a fond look. "Most everyone here knows how hard it was for me to let go of things and trust you the way you deserved, to trust in your love. I always thought I knew what love was. I thought I'd loved before. But I was wrong. Logan, you taught me what love means. What sacrifice means. And what commitment means. You taught me truly what it means to not just be one half of a couple, but to be two heartbeats beating as one. I may have changed you, but you have also changed me." She paused, trying to remember what she had prepared. "I didn't know I could ever feel so much for anyone. I didn't know I was capable of truly wanting to put someone else's happiness before my own. But you make it so easy. You literally envelope me in your love. How can I not love you every bit as much? I am so happy to be marrying you. Because now, for the rest of my life, I'll always know where you are, or I won't feel comfortable. I'll always see you first, in any room I enter. And I'll always want to find you there."* She paused again, glancing a moment at her friends who were there standing up with them. "We have been blessed with some wonderful friends. We're going to have an amazing life—I know it. As your wife, I promise to love you, care for you, bail you out of jail, and of course, prove your innocence." The audience laughed. She grinned at him. "I promise to always believe in you, to be your advocate, your supporter, your best friend." She looked at Dick and said, "Sorry, Dick. You've officially been replaced."
Dick grinned and gave her a thumbs up.
The priest smiled in approval when they both turned to him. He nodded at Piz, who began to sing "With You" by Fight Dragons, while Logan and Veronica kept their eyes on one another. When Piz was done, Logan gave him a smile of approval. The man did do the song justice. Veronica turned to Mac and gave her her bouquet. The couple faced the priest.
"Logan, do you reach out in love to receive Veronica and choose to share your life with her? Do you promise always to give to her your expression of your ever growing love, to comfort her, be sensitive to her needs, express your feelings with her, listen to her, put your trust in her, and forsaking all others, be her intimate friend and honor her as your equal partner?" the priest asked him.
Logan said, "I do."
"Veronica, do you reach out in love to receive Logan and choose to share your life with him? Do you promise always to give to him your expression of your ever growing love, comfort him, be sensitive to his needs, express your feelings with him, listen to him, put your trust in him, and forsaking all others, be his intimate friend and honor him as your equal partner?" the priest asked her.
Veronica's eyes filled with tears as she said, "I do."
"Do you have the rings?" the priest asked.
Dick stepped forward and gave the priest the rings. He held them up.
"Your rings are circles, and a circle is the symbol of the sun, the earth, the universe, of wholeness, perfection, peace and unity. Like circles, your rings have no beginning and no end, and in the sacred tradition of marriage rings have come to symbolize eternal love and the endless union of body, of mind, and spirit," the priest said to them. Then he looked out at the audience and said, "These rings will be worn by Logan and Veronica to show to the world their love and commitment to one another." He looked back at the couple. "May the presence of these rings always remind you of the eternal love you have pledged and devotion you willingly share with one another from this moment on."
He looked back at the audience. "Let each of us in his own way, may it be prayer, may it be by a thought, whatever you and I would wish for this couple, let's pray or have our own thoughts as a blessing upon these rings. Let us pause at this time for these silent blessings," he encouraged. He bowed his head a few moments in prayer. Then he looked up. "These rings, now blessed, are a symbol of love and faithfulness. They seal the vows of marriage and represent a promise of forever love." He held out his hand, and they each picked up the ring they were to use.
"Now, Logan, repeat after me. I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you."
Logan repeated the vow while gazing into her eyes.
"Now you may place the ring on her finger," the priest said. Logan did, smiling at her.
"Veronica, repeat after me. I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you," the priest recited.
Veronica repeated the vow.
"Now you may place the ring on his finger," the priest said to her.
She put the ring on his finger. It was finally done. Smiling brilliantly, they twined both their hands together.
"Now that Logan and Veronica have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of a ring, I now pronounce you wife and husband, 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," the priest said. He turned to Logan. "You may kiss your bride."
Logan, his heart in his eyes, pulled her into his arm and gave her an enthusiastic kiss. The audience broke out into cheers, clapping, and whistles (Dick).
"May I present to you Logan and Veronica Echolls," the priest announced. Mac handed Veronica back her bouquet, and she took Logan's hand. They slowly walked back down the aisle now as husband a wife.
After all the photos were taken against the backdrop of the setting sun and some in the moonlight, the wedding party headed inside to join their guests.
Following out the bridal party, Jason hoped that Daisy would be more receptive. Since they'd slept together at the bridal party a few days earlier, she'd been avoiding him. He walked up to her as she stood chatting with Mac and Dick.
"Hey," he said, smiling at him.
"Hey, yourself," she replied. "Wasn't it perfect?"
"Yes, it was," he said. "You, though, nearly eclipse the bride. You're beautiful."
"Thanks," she said.
Deputy Leo, for once not in uniform, came up to her. He smiled warmly at Daisy. "You look amazing," he said to her.
She held out her hand to him and smiled. "Thanks!" she said. Then she looked at Jason. "Jason, you know Leo, don't you? He's my date tonight."
Leo smiled and held out his hand. Jason took it automatically; his eyes, though, locked onto Daisy's. "So this is your play?" he asked her.
"I told you. I'm moving on. I suggest you do, too," she said simply.
Leo looked between the two. "Play?" he asked.
Jason smiled at him. "Careful with her. She's a wily one," Jason advised. "Good to see you, Leo. And in a much pleasanter occasion."
"That's true," Leo said with a friendly smile. "How's your sister?"
They looked at her as she talked with Eli, Thea, and Wallace. "I think she's going to be okay. Thanks for asking," he said. "If you'll excuse me." He turned and walked away. It hurt him that Daisy brought a date. He had hoped maybe he'd made some headway with her after their time together, but he was in it for the long haul. He'd watch and wait. She would discover that he had endless patience.
He went up to Parker and Piz. "You did a great job with that song," he told Piz.
Piz gave him a bashful smile. "Thanks. Everything was perfect. It's a good song," Piz said.
"I just can't believe the weather was so great tonight. We had just enough daylight left to do the ceremony," Parker said happily.
"Even if it's too chilly, weddings usually don't take more than a half hour or so," Jason said.
"All that planning for less than an hour," Piz remarked.
"So I noticed Daisy brought a date," Parker said, looking at Daisy as she smiled and chatted with Leo.
"And it wasn't Duncan," Piz added.
"She lives to torment me," Jason said with a sigh.
"So you're not giving up on her?" Parker asked in surprise.
"I love her. I want her, not anyone else. What else can I do? Eventually, she'll come to her senses," Jason said confidently. "I'm sure Deputy Leo is a fine guy, but he's not the guy for her."
"I think Veronica dated him before Logan," Piz said. "The first time with Logan that is."
They laughed. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised," Parker said. "She wants to want the good guys, but secretly pants for the bad boys."
"Very true," Piz said with a sardonic smile. "Which are you?" he asked Jason.
"Both. That's why Daisy loves me," he said with a grin.
The band began to play "I've Had the Time of My Life." They singer said, "Will the happy couple lead us in our first dance?"
Logan took Veronica's hand and led her to the dance floor.
"We did it," she said as he took her in his arms.
"Now you're mine," he said with satisfaction.
"I already was," she told him.
"I know. But now everyone knows, and they can keep their grubby hands off of you!" Logan said with a smirk. "I hope you don't expect me to hang out with these losers 'til midnight."
"Losers? These are our family and friends," she reminded him with a smile.
"They're keeping me from making love to my bride," he complained.
"We should stay until eleven," she said. "I'd rather ring in the new year in private anyway." They had reserved the honeymoon suite there in the hotel. Their flight to Maui was at ten the next day.
"Works for me," he said with satisfaction.
"Please, join the happy couple," the band leader said. All the couples began stepping out onto the dance floor.
As couples began to step onto the dance floor, Parker couldn't help but notice that Duncan had brought a date. A very attractive date. Then she realized the woman was familiar. Her eyes widened when she recognized Stacy, Lily's nanny. He was dating his nanny? The idea startled her. Stacy laughed at something Duncan said.
"So are we ready for our dance?" Piz asked her, drawing her attention. "I can't stay much longer. I promised the guys I'd be at the club by eleven."
Piz's old band had reformed upon his return. They were scheduled to play at a New Year's Eve party. Piz was going to turn it down, but Parker told him that if he could do both, he should. "I'm glad your band is getting a chance to play. I can leave with you. It'll be okay."
"No. You're a bridesmaid. They may want more photos. I feel bad enough leaving so early. If I take you out, too, I'll feel worse," Piz said as they began to dance. "I won't get to kiss you at midnight, though."
"I guess you'll have to make it up to me tomorrow night," she said with a smile. "Did you tell Wallace about the interview?"
Piz shook his head. "I wanted to wait until after the wedding. With all the commotion with Jazmin, too, it wasn't a good time," Piz said.
"He needs to know if you can't live with him," Parker said.
"An interview is no guarantee of a job," Piz pointed out.
"Los Angeles is so much closer than New York. I'm just glad that you could possibly have the job you want and be nearby," Parker said. "But I'll miss getting to see you every day."
"Well, we can see each other as much as we can make the drive. But if I get the job at the station in L.A., I'll still go to school part-time. I want to finish my degree. I promised my mother when I came back to Hearst that I would," Piz said.
"That's good. There's a lot of school choices in Los Angeles, so you can do it. If they stick you with the midnight shift, you will just have to take afternoon classes," she said brightly.
Piz smiled at her. "How did I get so lucky? You are the perfect girlfriend," he remarked.
The song was over. He pulled her close for a kiss. "Happy New Year," he said to her.
"Happy New Year!" she said. She squeezed his hand and watched him go. Veronica already knew he had to slip out early. She glanced over and saw Duncan dancing with Stacy. Why did it bother her? She was happy with Piz. She should want Duncan to be happy with someone.
Duncan had noticed Piz leave the room and wondered. Was Parker going to be alone the rest of the night? Suddenly, he was regretting that he'd brought a date.
"So your boyfriend isn't upset that you're dancing with me?" Duncan asked Stacy.
"Nope. Not since you paid for a suite for both of us for two nights. He's up in the room waiting for me to turn into a pumpkin and join him," she said with a happy smile.
"My parents are taking Lily to their room by ten, so you can slip out then if you want and ring in the New Year with him," Duncan suggested. "I really appreciate you coming with me."
"I've been where you're at before. It's not easy," Stacy said. "But if Parker doesn't see what a great guy you are, that's her loss."
Duncan grinned. "Thanks. It's nice to hear," he said.
"Are you going to dance with your little princess?" Stacy asked, watching Dick twirling her around.
"Of course. Dick, though, is her favorite playmate," Duncan said fondly.
Mac was watching her man dance with Lily. Her sister Lauren came up to her. "Dick is so funny!" Lauren observed.
"Yes, he is," Mac agreed with a smile.
"He'll be a great dad someday," Lauren said.
"I think so, too," Mac said with a sigh. She wasn't nearly ready to be a mom, but she had no doubt that when she was, Dick would be the perfect dad.
"I'm so glad your parents agreed to let me come with them to the wedding," Lauren said. "It was so much better than our cousin Beth's. That was the last one I went to."
"Well, it was a bit awkward. Veronica wanted to invite you and my parents, but she didn't want to offend your parents. But Logan said there was no way in hell he was extending an invitation to your sister," Mac explained. "I finally told him that I'd talk to your parents. I knew they'd understand."
"Yeah, they know better than anyone how difficult Maddy can be," Lauren said. She watched Mac's brother Ryan steal a glass of champagne off of a table. "I can't believe you dragged Ryan here."
"Dick promised to give him a surfing lesson tomorrow. We don't leave for our trip until the third, so we're staying at the hotel another night," Mac said.
"The rooms are awesome," Lauren replied. The song ended and Dick passed Lily off to Duncan. Dick turned and walked toward them.
"My ladies," Dick said, giving them bow. "So does little Sinclair want to dance? I gotta warn you. I may ruin you for other guys!"
Lauren giggled when Mac rolled her eyes. "Sure!" she enthused, taking his hands.
"Don't worry, babe. I'm saving all my best moves for you!" Dick told Mac with a wink.
Mac grinned at him. Then her dad came up to her and asked her to dance. They moved to the floor next to Wallace and Thea.
Wallace smiled at Thea. "You look very beautiful tonight," he told her.
"Your sister picked the dress out for me when we went shopping," Thea admitted as she looked down at her dark red dress. It was much flashier and sexier than any dress she'd normally wear.
"My sister has good taste," Wallace said, giving her an admiring glance. "I'm so glad you're back in town. I was missing you like crazy."
She smiled at him. It was still strange for her to have a boyfriend. He was her first everything. They hadn't had sex yet, but she had decided that tonight was the night. She wanted to start the New Year off shedding her virginity. Wallace made her feel so special, so wonderful. Her grandmother had always taught her that her virginity was a gift she should never give away lightly. For the first time, she wanted to give it away. "Wallace, I want to spend the night with you," she told him.
His eyes widened slightly. "Really? Are you sure?" he asked.
She nodded. "I want to start the New Year off belonging to you in every way," she said softly.
Wallace stopped the dance. "You know I love you, right? You're not like any woman I've ever met. I'll wait as long as you need," he told her.
She smiled happily at him. He was so perfect. "I don't need any more time. You've been very patient. I love you, too," she said.
Wallace beamed and pulled her close for a kiss.
Veronica looked over at Wallace. Logan, attuned to everything about her, noticed and said, "Looks like Wallace and Thea are getting very close."
Veronica nodded. "He's crazy about her," Veronica said. "I would've never picked her for him, though. It's funny how things work out. I really like her."
"Yeah, she's pretty great. That brain of hers, though, is a bit intimidating," Logan admitted.
Veronica grinned. "You just don't like not being the smartest person in every room," she said.
"Hey, I think I gave that up when I became friends with Mac and fell in love with you," Logan said. "Not to mention Jason. We need to find some dumber friends, so I can hang on to my superiority complex."
Veronica laughed. Then her dad approached and asked to cut in. Logan happily agreed. He turned and saw Parker standing without a partner. He went to dance with her.
A short time later, they had the cutting of the cake. Veronica had threatened Logan within an inch of his life. If he got cake on her dress, he was a dead man. She, though, had no guilt at cramming his piece into his mouth. "You can lick it off!" he ordered. She just laughed and handed him napkin.
After the toasts were made, it was approaching eleven. Logan gave Veronica a pointed look. She spotted Trina talking to Charlie and his wife (the introductions had actually went off without a hitch) and motioned to her. Trina had passed Richie off to her mom, Mary, after the wedding. Mary had already taken him up to the room they were sharing.
"What's up?" Trina asked. "Charlie isn't so bad. You were right. He looks a lot like Dad."
"You're the only one happy about that fact," Logan said dryly.
"We're ready to leave. Can you organize the tossing of the bouquet?" Veronica asked.
"Sure," Trina said.
All the single ladies were assembled. "You got this, Mackie!" Dick called out. Mac smiled and shook her head. She knew if she did catch it, Dick would take it as a sign and go out and buy her a ring for Valentine's. She wasn't planning on that hiccup occurring quite so soon.
Jazmin's superior height made it no real challenge. She caught the bouquet with ease. Due to the trials she been through lately, no one was particularly disappointed.
Sebastian went up to Eli. "So when's the wedding going to be?" he asked Eli with a nudge.
"When we're ready and not a single day sooner," Eli said bluntly. He wasn't going to let the twins' too powerful dad bully either of them into marriage. Jazmin needed a lot of time. He wasn't in any hurry either because they still had a lot of things to work on.
Jazmin came up to him, smiling widely. "See that expression on her face?" Sebastian asked. "I want that to stay on her face."
"So do I," Eli told him. He smiled as she showed him the bouquet.
Jazmin eyed her father. "Don't be getting any ideas, Daddy!" she admonished. "I'm not getting married for several years."
"Whatever you want, sweetheart," her dad replied easily. He held out his hand. "I hope you'll dance with me."
She handed Eli the bouquet and took her father's hand.
Dick and Logan approached Weevil. Logan motioned to the photographer. "You have to get Weevil's picture!" he ordered. He laughed when Weevil flipped him off. Weevil with the flowers and giving him the bird was going to make a great picture. He'd make sure he put it on the mantel in the living room. Just the thought made him smile. Then he and Dick got on each side of him and posed for a picture.
"I'm going to get this one on a t-shirt!" Dick exclaimed gleefully.
"He does look pretty," Logan teased. He never thought he'd live to see a day when the former gang banger would wear a tux with tails and a bow tie.
Weevil gave him a hostile look. "You're lucky I'm so fond of your wife," he grumbled.
"Hey, you in that is the best gift ever!" Logan exclaimed. "My bride and I are leaving now, so I wanted to say thanks. You're a good sport." Logan held out his hand to Weevil who shook it.
"Treat her right," Weevil said.
"Always," Logan replied. Then he turned to take his bride up to their suite. Rose petals were thrown and well wishes shouted as they walked through their guests.
"Wait!" Dick protested, as a thought occurred to him. "Doesn't Ronnie got to throw the thing to the single men?"
"I guess we can do that," Logan said with a shrug. "You both know who you want, though, so what's the point?"
"Dude, competition!" Dick exclaimed. "I'm going to win!"
"We'll see about that," Weevil said with a smirk.
Logan had Trina assembled the single men for the garter toss. The catching of it was a lot more violent than the bouquet toss. Dick and Weevil got into a shoving match. Ryan, Mac's little brother, had tried to join the fray and got knocked on his back. It turned into a dog pile with Chip and Wallace on top. Funny enough, Duncan somehow ended up holding the prize.
"What am I going to do with this?" Duncan asked in bemusement.
Logan didn't particularly like the idea of Veronica's first serious boyfriend in possession of her undergarment. "How about you just give it back?" he asked, taking it from Duncan, who shrugged.
Veronica laughed at Logan's display of jealousy. Then they said their final goodbye.
"Party isn't over!" Dick hollered. "Dance to midnight!" The band began to play a fast number. He grabbed Mac and pulled her out onto the dance floor.
Duncan had been watching Parker all night, but he'd made of point of not approaching her. His self-control paid off. It was about a quarter until midnight when their paths crossed as they both grabbed a punch.
"Had enough to drink?" Duncan asked.
"I don't want to be hung-over in the morning, so I switched to punch about an hour ago," Parker said.
"Yeah, me, too," Duncan said. "Where did Piz run off to?"
"He had a gig at a club that I told him he should take, so he bailed a bit early," she said. She decided to ask him what had been on her mind. "What happened to your date? Was that Stacy you were with?"
Duncan felt a bit embarrassed. He didn't want to pretend Stacy and he were a couple. Logan's planned suddenly seemed foolish, so he abandoned it. "Yeah, she wanted to watch Lily do her thing. But she wanted to ring in the New Year with her boyfriend, so I told her to leave early. I got them a room here in the hotel," Duncan explained.
"Oh," Parker replied, oddly relieved. "That's nice of you."
"You look amazing, by the way," Duncan said. She had been paired with him on the walk out after the vows. They'd posed for a lot of pictures. It'd been hard to be so near her and try to maintain his distance. But he had. It was what she said she wanted. For a time, Stacy had distracted him, but now that they were both dateless it was impossible to ignore her.
"Thanks," she said. "You were very quiet during the photos."
"I'm not sure what to say to you anymore," he admitted.
Parker looked down at her drink a moment. She had made things like this between them, but what else could she do? "I wish things were different," she finally said.
"So do I," he said, looking at her. Why didn't she love him? He'd give her such a good life. It seemed they were at an impasse, but neither walked away from the other. They stood there sipping their drink and watching their friends dance. Duncan kept sneaking longing glances at her, but he refrained from pushing her. He didn't want her to walk away from him.
Nearby, Jason was looking at Daisy with the same longing. He'd steadily watched her all night dance and flirt with Leo. The sight bothered him more than he thought it would. Even though he knew she was doing it to make a statement, it still upset him. The alcohol he'd consumed was only feeding his jealousy. It was almost midnight, and he was determined that it was him she kissed when the ball dropped. Maybe he'd knock out her date. That sounded like a solid plan. Deputy Dog had no authority in this town. He drained his drink and edged closer to her.
Duncan was having similar thoughts. When the band's leader announced it was a minute until midnight, Duncan put his drink on the table and looked at Parker. It suddenly seemed to dawn on Parker the choice she was about to have to make, and she looked around, possibly seeking an exit. Couples stopped dancing. The expectation was in the air.
When the countdown began, Duncan stepped closer to her. Parker quit fighting. Everyone was coupled up. It would draw more attention and be more hurtful if she tried to escape. A part of her wasn't sure she wanted to escape. As the room began to chant the final seconds, Duncan gazed down at her.
"Happy New Year!" everyone cried out. Hugs and kisses were exchanged all over the room.
"Happy New Year," Duncan said to Parker. He moved to kiss her cheek, but she turned her face slightly, and their lips connected. He couldn't help it. His arms reached out and pulled her close, and his mouth opened slightly, his tongue seeking entry. Parker surprised herself by allowing him to deepen the kiss.
His touch was both familiar and new. She'd forgotten what it was like to kiss him. Pushing down all memories of her time with him was the only way she knew to stay loyal to Piz. But for this moment, she let herself go and got lost in his kiss.
Jason wasn't so lucky. His fist clenched in anger as he had to watch Daisy enthusiastically kiss her date when the New Year arrived. When they both turned to wish others, he stepped forward and grabbed her hand. Then he pulled her off to the side where it was quieter.
"Why are you doing this to me?" he asked Daisy accusingly.
Daisy ignored the flash of guilt his words and look invoked. "Not everything is about you, Jason. We broke up. I'm on a date. It's New Year's," she said simply, as if that explained it all.
"You still love me. I've apologized over and over. I screwed up. Why can't you show me any compassion? Am I really so awful?" he asked, his eyes beseeching her.
Daisy sighed. "No, you're not. I'm sorry. I'm not trying to be cruel. I shouldn't have had sex with you the other day. It just confused things," she told him.
"No, it clarified things. It showed me that you haven't forgotten how great we are," Jason said.
"Sex isn't everything, Jason," she replied.
"No, but it's important. Not to mention, it is always more than sex between us. You know that!" Jason insisted.
"I got a date to get back to," Daisy said, turning to walk away.
Jason pulled her back. He put his hands around her biceps to prevent her from escaping. "I'm not giving up on you. On us. I'm not going anywhere. So I'm putting you on notice. I'm willing to do what I have to for us as long as it takes until I get you to come around," he told her passionately. "Because I believe we belong together." He didn't give her a chance to reply before he pulled her closer, kissing her ruthlessly. Then he broke off the kiss and walked away.
Daisy stood there stunned a moment. He wasn't going to make it easy for her she realized as she headed back to her date.
Dick was still kissing Mac when Lauren walked up to them. "Gee, guys, get a room!" she exclaimed with a giggle. Dick broke off the kiss. Then he grinned. "We did!" he informed her.
Mac laughed. "Are you ready for bed?" she asked him, arching an eyebrow.
"Oh, I'm so sleepy!" Dick said with an exaggerated yawn. Lauren laughed at him. Then she said to Mac, "Happy New Year!"
Mac gave her a hug. Lauren said goodnight and walked over to Ryan and Mac's parents. She smiled at the sight. It was great having a sister that fit so well with her family. Then she turned to Dick. "I'm ready to go if you are," she told him.
"It's been a perfect night, but it's technically our one-year anniversary, remember? I need to spend some time lovin' in the New Year with my best girl!" Dick said with a wicked grin. It had been a year ago exactly that he'd first made love to her. In his mind, that was the moment she'd became his.
"In some ways, yes," Mac said, smiling at the memory. "You were so shy about sex with me."
"That's 'cause you matter so much. Even from the beginning," Dick told her honestly. "I love you more now than I did then, and I didn't think that was possible."
His words touched her deeply. She reached out and put her hand on his cheek. "I feel the same way. You've made me very happy," she said. She reached up and kissed him softly. Then she tugged on his hand. "Let's go. I bought you a new outfit." He grinned happily, correctly deducing that it was an outfit she would wear for his benefit. It was going to be a great year!
******The Honeymoon Suite******
Logan had very carefully peeled Veronica's wedding gown off her as soon as they made it up to their room. Then he'd even hung it in the closet—much to her amusement. He'd then pounced on her, making love to her with a vengeance that left her gasping.
"Wow!" Veronica exclaimed a short time later. "How is it you keep getting better at this?"
"You know what they say about practice," he said with a wolfish grin. He kissed her neck. "Not to mention, you were away from me all last night. I was feeling inspired!"
Veronica laughed. "Glad to be your muse," she remarked. She put her head on his shoulder. "It was perfect, wasn't it?"
"The sex or the wedding?"
"The wedding!" she exclaimed.
He chuckled. "Yes, it was pretty damn amazing. I'm glad we videotaped it. I can't wait to rewatch it," he said.
"You are a nut! Guys don't like to watch that kind of thing," she said, smiling at him.
"This guy does," he said. "Besides, seeing Weevil in that suit is going to give me many a happy moment. I already have the spot picked out on our mantel that his picture is going to sit."
Veronica rose up on her elbow in surprise. "What? You're willing going to put a picture of Weevil on our mantel? Wait! Do we even have a mantel?" she asked.
"We have something that works for me," he replied. "I got the photographer to snap a picture of Weevil holding your bouquet for Jazmin. He was flipping me off. The picture's going to rock!"
Veronica laughed and shook her head. "I don't think he'll appreciate that," she said.
"So. It's my wedding, my picture, and my damn mantel!" Logan replied with a smirk.
"Hey, it's okay with me! I'm sure the picture will be great," she said in amusement. It never stopped amazing her how far he and Weevil had come since high school. She hoped Lilly could see them. Veronica knew it'd give her a ton of amusement, too. She glanced at the clock and then turned on the TV. The ball was about to drop. They watched and counted down the New Year.
"Happy New Year, Veronica Mars-Echolls," Logan said, smiling proudly at her. She was his wife. He could hardly believe it. He wished so much his mom could be here. She'd have had so much fun planning the wedding with Veronica. However, he liked to think she was watching it from somewhere. At least he had his sister and his brother Charlie there.
"Happy New Year, husband," Veronica said. She kissed him. Their relationship had had many a challenge. The ups and downs seemed to come and go. She figured there would be both in their future. However, she wasn't afraid of anything they might face because she knew that they'd face it together.
"We're going to have an amazing life," Logan told her confidently.
"I know we are," she replied. "Whatever life throws at us, I know we'll be okay. We've been through so much already."
"We're epic, remember?" he reminded her with a grin.
"I remember," she said, her heart filled with joy. He had seen their epicness long before she had. "You were right."
"Just remember who said it first," he said with a smirk. Then he pulled her on top of him and began to make love to her all over again.
******The End******
That's it! I hope it was everything you wanted. You can continue the reading journey by reading the sequel to this "MaDe to Endure." It focuses a bit more on MaDi than this one, but like all of them, every couple is featured.
*The line from Veronica's vow that I italicized was not mine. It came from a book by Connie Brockway called The Lady Most Likely. I hope you don't mind, but I thought it was lovely and wanted to use it.
Give me a final review if you haven't yet. Thanks!