A/N: My dear readers, once again, brace yourselves for a longer that average chapter. I probably should have made two short ones, but it just didn't present a good breaking point for me. So grab a cuppa and enjoy! THANK YOU for your continued support of this story! LDB.
The morning of December sixth dawned brightly. The snow of the last few days had stopped during the night. The sky was blue and clear, the snow on the ground glittered like diamonds. It was a perfect day.
When Adam woke up, he reached over for Bret, but the other side of the bed was empty. It took him a moment to remember he was in the guest room at the Helmsley's. He had spent the night away from Bret, out of tradition, it was bad luck to see Bret before the wedding.
Last night, Adam, Heath, Shawn and Adam Rose finished up the gift bags for the guests. Heath and Jay had bought and extra gift to add to the bags, a one time use camera. Guests could take their own pictures, then have two sets of prints made, one for themselves and one for Bret and Adam.
The night before last, Hunter, Jason, and Wade had taken Bret to The Three Lion's for a stag night. Several off duty firefighters were there as well, including Jerry Lawler, Jim Ross and Bret's men from Station 51. They had a fun night. Bret got several bottles of lube and other sex "toys" and the entertainment was a couple of "stag movies", one about firemen, the other about a hospital, they were racy, but not true triple X porn. It was just the right amount of "naughty" fun for clean-cut men.
While their men were at the stag party, Shawn, Adam, Heath and Adam Rose had worked on the gift bags, but mostly the watched romantic movies and ate pizza, that was why they had to finish the bags last night. Now the bags were safely loaded in Heath's car trunk, ready to go to the reception room.
Adam stretched and yawned, he smiled, today was his wedding day! He couldn't believe that it was finally happening. Someone loved him and cared about him and he returned it, fiercely. He never had it with Randal Orton, he sort of had a taste of it with Christopher Jericho, but with Bret Hart he had it all, love, tenderness, caring and above all trust and respect.
The "bride" smiled again as Shawn came into the room. He was carrying a wicker bed tray loaded with breakfast, juice and coffee. A small vase with a single blue iris was also on the tray, along with the morning newspaper. "Good morning, honey. I made your favorite French toast," Shawn said as he placed the tray over Adam's lap. The "bride" had sat up and leaned against the headboard.
"Thanks, but I'm too excited to eat. I have too much to do. When is José coming to do my hair?" Adam asked as he sipped his orange juice.
"You need to eat, Adam. You don't want one of your headaches. At one and everything is under control, trust me. Hunter will be going to see Bret soon. Did you finish your note?" Shawn asked as he sat on the edge of the bed. He was glowing almost as much as Adam.
Adam reached over to the bedside table, he picked up a small box and an envelope. It contained his private gift to Bret, along with a short note. "Okay, I'll try to eat. Is this real Shawn? Is something going to happen? You know love never works out for me," Adam's voice was full of emotion, he was waiting for the other shoe to drop and destroy his happiness.
Shawn reached out and tucked a stray strand of hair behind Adam's ear. The man sitting on the bed looked like a small, worried little boy, he smiled softly, "its real son. Nothing is going to happen. I promise. This is the love you were meant to have. Bret is the one for you. I know you've had bad luck in love. I know you had all of that for a reason, so that when real love came along, you would treasure it even more. Randy taught you that you are strong-willed. You went through all that and still became a doctor. With Chris, you learned again, that you are strong, and even though he broke your heart, he couldn't break your spirit. You were able to help Bret when he needed a friend the most, out of that friendship grew a love. A love that grew and continues to grow and strengthen. This is the love that was always waiting for you. You just had to go through the weeds first. Trust your love, trust Bret," Shawn spoke with a father's love and a preacher's wisdom.
"Thanks, Shawn. I guess I just needed to hear it again. I love you and Hunter so much. Jay and I would have been lost without you," Adam said with a kiss to Shawn's cheek. They both had tears in their eyes. Shawn took the things for Bret and left Adam to eat his breakfast.
After breakfast, Adam went to take his bath. He filled the tub with hot water and tons of spicy vanilla bubble bath. He soaked for a while, then scrubbed his skin till it was smooth and soft. He washed his hair and gave it a deep conditioning. He also did a full hair removal on his body. He wanted to be perfect for his wedding night.
After he finished his grooming, he slathered himself with creamy baby oil. When he was done he was clean, soft and smelled of spicy vanilla with a hint of baby oil. Shawn called out and told him José was there to do his hair. Adam wrapped himself in his long, blue silk bath robe. He wore a lacy, white silk thong underneath the robe. He hoped Bret would like it.
José was the best hairdresser in Denver and a good friend of Shawn's. He was doing Adam's hair as a favor. The first thing he did after the taking the towel off Adam's head was to spray the physician's long locks with a product that would leave his hair silky and shiny. He blew Adam's hair dry and used a large, round brush. Every tangle was removed and the locks were the softest, smoothest and silkiest they had ever been.
Adam wanted his hair left down as Bret loved it that way best. José pulled two pieces from each side around to the back and made a long, thin pony tail, much like Shawn wore his hair. The rest fell in long, soft waves. Adam had let his hair grow and when down and brushed out, fell to just below his shoulder blades. By two-thirty, José was done. He left Adam and went to go do Shawn's hair.
Adam was sitting on the bed, buffing out his fingernails when Hunter came into the room. He looked at Adam, he couldn't have felt more like a father. He was about to give his baby away and it pulled at his heart. He was so proud of Adam. All he had gone through and had still become a brilliant doctor. Adam looked up when he heard Hunter enter the room.
"How was Bret? Is he as nervous as I am?" Adam asked as he put away the nail buffer he had used.
Hunter chuckled, "Yeah worse, I think. He used deodorant on his hair and sprayed his pits with hairspray and then he used lotion for toothpaste. Jerry got there just as I left, he'll get Bret calm. He told me Owen called. Margaret is doing better, but she starts chemo next week. He's really sorry he couldn't come," the older man said as he sat down on the bed next to Adam.
Adam smiled, "poor Bear. Well, Jerry will help him. I know this family thing really hurt his feelings, but he said to just let it go. Owen is the only one he really cares about, and he understands he couldn't come. Did you give him my gift?" Adam asked with a bit of a sigh, he felt bad about Bret's family, but it was what it was.
"Yes, and this is for you. Shawn is about to leave. He'll see you at the Chapel. You know him, he has to go have his quiet time so he'll be ready for the ceremony. Call me and I'll help you with your tie. Listen kid, I won't have another chance to say this today, so bear with me. I just want you to know how much I love you and how proud I am of you. Adam, meeting your mom and you boys was the best thing that ever happened to Shawn and I. She would be so proud and happy for you. I know she's smiling down on you today. I'm proud that you asked me to give you away. I know I'm saying proud a lot, but there is no other word I can use. So, I'm proud of how you went through all that adversity and still be came the best of your class and an excellent doctor in general. You earned the job as my Assistant. You couldn't be more of a son to me, as well as Jay. Shawn and I will always be here for you, no matter what you need. Don't forget about us. I.. I.. just love you, son," Hunter pulled Adam in for a tight hug. Tears rained from his honey colored eyes.
Adam hugged Hunter back, his own tears fell, "I love you too, and Shawn" it was all he said, but it as all he needed to say. The two men broke apart. Hunter left Adam to open his gift and letter from Bret.
Adam opened the small flat sky blue box. It was another gift from Tiffany and Company. He gasped when he saw the gift. Bret had given him a new silver bar pin for his doctors coat. It read: "DR. ADAM J. HART, MD." the crest of the U of C Hospital was before his name and a caduceus was at the end of his name. It was beautiful and he couldn't wait to wear it.
He opened the envelope and pulled out a short note, written in Bret's very neat handwriting, "My Dearest Adam, my sweet bit of Sugar. On this day I give you my heart. My promise that I will walk with you, hand in hand, wherever our journey leads us. Living, learning, loving; together; forever. All my love, your Bear, Bret".
The words were simple, but heartfelt and made Adam weep with joy. He dried his tears. He put the note and gift in his suitcase that he was taking to Colorado Springs. He went to go get dressed, it was almost time to leave for the Chapel.
Bret Hart was sitting on the bed he normally shared with Adam. He'd been lonely when he woke up without his boy next to him. It wasn't unusual for Adam to be gone, because of his shift hours, but somehow this morning it was different. Well, it didn't matter, after today, Adam would be his forever.
The Captain had a rough start to the day. He burned his toast, spilled his coffee, mixed his deodorant with the hairspray and used a tube of lotion as toothpaste. When Hunter had arrived, he was busy trying to get the taste of hand lotion out of his mouth.
He and Hunter chatted a few minutes then got to the reason for the physician's visit. Hunter left Adam's letter and gift, then he took the letter and gift from Bret for Adam. With hug, Hunter left. As the doctor pulled out of the driveway, Jerry Lawler pulled in. Hunter knew then Bret would be alright, Jerry would be able to calm the Captain down and keep him that way.
Before Jerry came into the house, Bret opened the gift that Adam had sent him. It too was from Tiffany and Company. He smiled, there on a silver chain was a sterling silver medallion of Saint Florian, the Patron Saint of Firefighters. Like Adam had always wanted a Saint Luke medal, he'd always wanted a Saint Florian, he just never got around to getting one. Hart turned the medallion over, he smiled, inscribed on the back Adam had put, "I love you, always" along with the date. He placed the chain around his neck, the medal rested nicely on his chest.
Bret then opened the letter, he gave a chuckle, the note was written in Adam's handwriting. It was a tad sloppy, but for a doctor's writing, it was fairly legible. After all, if you took thousands of hastily written notes during med school, it would affect your handwriting.
The note read, "I love you my mighty Bear. Today I take you to be my partner in life. I promise, above all else, to live in truth with you, and to communicate fully and give you my hand and my heart as a sanctuary of love and peace fearlessly. I pledge my love, devotion, faith and honor as I join my life to yours; forever. All my love, your sweet bit of Sugar, Adam".
Bret's eyes were moist, he wondered how he got so lucky. He'd found love for a second time and he knew Adam would be his last and greatest love of all. He couldn't wait to marry his boy and start their life together. He smiled when Jerry was at the door. That meant it was time to get dressed. The wedding was close now. Soon Adam would be his; for eternity.
Shawn Michaels-Helmsley pulled into the parking lot of the Evan's Memorial Chapel. He was pleased to see the University had plowed and cleared the parking lot and sidewalks of all snow and ice.
The Early Gothic revival Chapel had been built in 1878 in downtown Denver, by John Evans, the founder of the University of Colorado. He'd built it in honor of his daughter, Josephine, who had died ten years earlier. It was bought in 1958 by the University as part of a land purchase. In 1960, the Chapel was moved, stone by stone, to its present location. It is on both the National Registry of Historic Places and the Historical Register of the United Methodist Church, although now it is a non-denominational place of worship.
The Chapel looked beautiful as it stood in the snow, surrounded by evergreens. The darkness of evening was creeping in, even at three-thirty in the afternoon, the sun would go behind the mountains by five.
Shawn parked his car and went inside. He carried a garment bag that held his Ministerial alb he wore for weddings. It was white satin and silver threads made decorative designs on the front and back. He was wearing a black button down with black slacks and he wore a white, stiff collar denoting his status as a pastor. José had styled his hair into a neatly layered pony tail.
When Shawn entered the Chapel, the florist had just finished tying sliver and sky blue ribbons around the two sliver candelabrum that held eight candles each. Tied with the ribbons were pink and white miniature roses. The ends of the pews along the aisle were decorated with the same ribbons and flowers as the candelabrum.
Two large, sliver vases of the roses mixed with baby's breath stood on either side of the altar. A white runner ran down the aisle and up the steps of the altar. The Chapel would be even more beautiful when the lights were dimmed and the candles lit. He had a copy of the open flame permit tucked in his pocket, along with the marriage license.
Shawn and the florist, a flamboyant man by the name of Rico, spoke. He told Shawn all the flowers for the wedding party were in the "Brides" room because he wasn't sure who got what. Shawn told him that was fine, and how beautiful the flowers looked.
The florist was glad Shawn was pleased. He then left to go do the flowers and centerpieces at the Marion Gottesfield Room at the Ritchie Center where the reception would be held.
Shawn went to the pastor's vestry to change into his alb. He slipped the alb over his head, then took his white silk stole in his hands. He whispered a prayer, kissed the stole and placed it around his neck. He wanted to quietly gather his thoughts and go over the ceremony. It always made him nervous and he wanted today to be perfect.
The next to arrive at the Chapel were Jason, Heath, Wade and his Adam. Adam Rose had been so pleased when Adam and Bret asked him to do the guest book. People would sign the book as they entered the Chapel. A small table and chair had been set up in the foyer of the Chapel. The table was covered with a sky blue cloth and a small silver vase of the same miniature roses and a candle sat to the left of the book. A silver pen with a white plume sat ready to use at the right of the book.
John Cena and Phil Brooks arrived next. Shawn directed them to the "Groom's" Room to wait for Bret and Jerry to arrive.
Ted, Cody, Dolph, Seth, Dean and Roman arrived to usher the guests to their seats. The Doctors wore black tuxes with black vests, ties and cummerbunds. The three firefighters wore their dress uniforms of navy blue. Their rank cords hung neatly, their name bars and brass buttons were highly polished. They also wore white gloves and their dress hats were neatly tucked under their arms. They looked extremely sharp.
Wade, Adam Rose, Heath and Jay wore their black tuxes. Their vests, ties and cummerbunds of the flame decorated material looked great. You had to really look to see the flames, from a distance, it looked more like a neat, black, red and yellow paisley print.
Captain Bret Hart pulled into the parking lot of the reception location. Jerry picked him up from there and drove him to the Chapel. Bret's Departmental SUV was packed for the trip to Colorado Springs. All that had to be done was for Adam's suit case to be loaded. On the short drive to the Chapel, Bret was nervous. He kept fiddling with his name tag and rank bars on his blazer.
Bret wore his full dress uniform, from his white cap to his white gloves. His shoes were as shiny as black mirrors. The uniform had never been so crisp and clean. Jerry was dressed the same, only his rank showed he was the Chief. Jerry parked his Departmental car in the Chapel parking lot. He turned to Bret and spoke.
"Son, I just want you to know how proud I am of you. Thank you for giving me the honor of being your best man. I know Davy is smiling on you today. You are lucky man to have found love twice. Adam is a good man. I wish you both all the love and happiness in the world. I will always be here for you, you're a son to me and I love you," Lawler said with a pat to Bret's shoulder, his voice full of emotion.
"I love you, Jerry. I couldn't have gotten through everything without you. You have been a father and friend to me. I'm honored to have you by my side today. Now, let's go get me married," Bret hugged the older man as they walked to the Chapel.
In the "Groom's" Room, John pinned a pink and white rosebud boutonniere to Bret's, Jerry's, Phil's and his own lapels. Shawn was giving Bret some last-minute instructions.
Hunter and Adam arrived at the Chapel. Jay took them directly to the "Bride's" room. "You look stunning," Jay said simply as he closed the door to the room. Tears filled his eyes as he pinned Adam's boutonniere on his lapel.
"Thanks, bro. I am wreck. What if I forget my words? Is Bret here? How does everything look?" Adam nervously fired off questions. He was a nervous wreck.
"You won't forget, I promise. You'll remember as soon as you start. Yes, Bret is here, everyone is here. Guests are arriving. Everything looks perfect. It's all going to be perfect. We're all here to make sure of it," Jason said with a calming hug to his little brother.
"Is Chris coming?" Adam asked as he paced the room. He stopped to look in the mirror and adjust his white silk tie.
"No, he's at the reception room, seeing that the band equipment is being set up right. Evan is here though, with the others," Jason answered as he adjusted his own tie. The Copeland brothers looked handsome as they stood side by side.
Heath came into the room with Wade, "It's time daddy. We need to go get in place. Oh Adam, you... look... like an angel," Heath said with a hug to his brother-in-law.
Adam flushed, "Thanks, Heath. You all look so handsome. Jay you have the ring right? I wish ma was here," he asked in a panicked tone, then an almost sad tone as he spoke of their beloved mother.
"Yes, right here. Ma is here bro, ma is here. I love you," Jason said softly with tears in his eyes as he again hugged his brother.
"I know Jay Jay. I love you," Adam hugged back, his own voice filled with emotion.
Wade silently hugged Adam, then followed Jay and Heath out of the room. That left Adam and Hunter alone to wait.
"I wish now I had a bouquet. Give my hands something to do," Adam laughed nervously. They could hear the organ music, it meant the ceremony was about to begin.
Shawn stood at the front of the Chapel. He gave a slight nod. The organist began to play soft, classical selections. With another nod, Wade came down the aisle followed by Heath. When they were in place at Shawn's right, the pastor nodded again. The music changed to Pachelbel's "Canon".
Phil, John, Jerry and Bret came out of the side door to Shawn's left. They looked handsome, their caps tucked under their arms. When they got to their places, Bret handed his hat to John, and removed his white gloves, which he tucked into his pocket. At this point, Dolph and Seth closed the doors to the Chapel.
Shawn looked out over the congregation. He saw that everyone was seated and ready. A small green light went off over the door. He knew that meant Hunter and Adam were in place and ready. With a nod to the organist, she began to play Bach's "Air on a G String".
Another nod, and Dolph and Seth opened the doors again. Jason began to walk down the aisle. When he got to his place at the front with Heath and Wade, the music swelled.
Hunter and Adam stepped into view. Bret's breath left his lungs. He knew Adam would be beautiful in white with the glow of the candles, but he wasn't ready for his fiancé to look that splendiferous.
Adam was dressed in white from head to toe. His tie, vest and cummerbund were made of white silk with white paisley stitching. The only color was the deep pink rosebud in his boutonniere, that was pinned to his lapel. Adam almost had an aura around him as he and Hunter started to walk down the aisle. Adam's right hand was rapped around the crook of Hunter's left elbow.
Hunter looked dashing in his black tux. He wore a sliver tie, vest and cummerbund. He had a smile on his lips and his honey eyes were pinned on Shawn, as he walked their "son" down the aisle.
The guests had stood as the "bride" came down the aisle. Everyone was smiling, they were so happy for the couple that had gone through so much to get to this day. They knew that both men had nearly died within hours of each other, yet, their love for one another had pulled them through.
Bret had tears in his dark eyes as Adam drew nearer. His bit of Sugar was a walking angel. His mind flashed briefly to his time at the door to eternity with Davy. He said a silent prayer of thanks to his lost husband for supporting his love for Adam, and sending him back.
Shawn was fighting the tears in his own turquoise eyes. Hunter looked so handsome and Adam? Well, Adam looked like a little angel floating up the aisle. He held his open Bible tightly in his hands, as he gathered himself. It wouldn't do for the preacher to cry during the ceremony.
Adam's hazel eyes met Bret's, everyone else just seemed to vanish. Only a few more steps and he would be there, with the man he loved, so very much. Almost there, oh how handsome Bret looked in his dress uniform.
Suddenly Hunter stopped, they had reached the end of the aisle. Bret stepped forward and Hunter placed Adam's hand in the Captain's left. He gave Adam a kiss on the cheek, and a pat to Bret's shoulder. He then went to the first row of pews, he stood next to Doctor Paul Heyman.
As Bret and Adam stepped forward, the older man whispered in Adam's ear. No one heard the words, but it must have been something special, because Adam blushed, almost shyly.
When the couple got to Shawn, the organist ended the music. Shawn smiled at the couple standing before him. He softly cleared his throat and began the wedding of Bret Hart and Adam Copeland.
"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. As someone once said, 'It takes hands to build a house, but only hearts can build a home.' Bret Hart and Adam Copeland have opened their hearts not only to each other, but to everyone in their lives. This love is what makes their house into a home. Bret, you may now speak words to Adam," Shawn spoke, then stepped back a bit.
Bret turned to face Adam, he took both of the physician's hands in his, "in your eyes, I have found my home. In your heart, I have found my love. In your soul, I have found my mate. With you, I am whole, full, alive. You make me laugh, you let me cry. You are my breath, my every heartbeat. I am yours, you are mine, of this we are certain. You are lodged in my heart. The small key is lost. You must stay here, forever," Bret spoke clearly and from his heart. Adam's eyes filled with moisture.
Shawn spoke, " Adam, you may now speak your words to Bret."
Adam looked into Bret's eyes, their hands still joined, and vowed, " you are my inspiration and my soul's fire. You are the magic of my days. You help me laugh, you teach me love. You provide a safe place for me, each day I rediscover you. You are my greatest boon. I am yours, you are mine, of this we are certain. You are lodged in my heart. The small key is lost. You must stay here, forever," Adam's voice was soft and clear. Like Jay had promised, once he'd started, he found the words.
Shawn then nodded, together Bret and Adam spoke in unison, "on this day I give you my heart, my promise, that I will walk with you hand in hand, where ever our journey takes us, living, learning, loving, together; forever." When they finished, they turned to face Shawn. Adam's right hand was held by Bret's left.
"May I have the rings, please?" Shawn asked the two best men. Jerry and Jason placed the rings on Shawn's open Bible. Both rings were simple, silver bands. Bret's had tiny etchings that looked like flames, while Adam's was smooth and plain.
"The wedding ring is a symbol of eternity. It is an outward sign of a commitment and spiritual bond which unites two hearts in endless love," Shawn finished as he made the sign of the Cross over he two silver circles.
The pastor nodded to the Captain. The firefighter took Adam's ring from the Bible. He slipped it onto the ring finger of Adam's slightly scarred left hand, he held the ring as he spoke, "From this moment, I, Bret Sargent Hart, take you, Adam Joseph Copeland as my best friend for life. I pledge to honor, encourage, and support you through our walk together. When our way becomes difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that through our union, we can accomplish more than we could alone. I promise to work at our love and always make you a priority in my life. With every beat of my heart, I will love you. This is my solemn vow," Bret let go of Adam's ring finger, the band sparkled in the candle light.
Shawn nodded to Adam. The physician took Bret's ring from the Bible. He slipped the band on the ring finger of Bret's left hand, he held the ring as he made his vow, "From this moment, I, Adam Joseph Copeland, take you, Bret Sargent Hart as my best friend for life. I pledge to honor, encourage, and support you through our walk together. When our way becomes difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that through our union, we can accomplish more than we could alone. I promise to work at our love and always make you a priority in my life. With every beat of my heart, I will love you. This is my solemn vow," Adam finished and let go of Bret's ring finger. Like his had done, the ring glittered in the soft light.
Bret and Adam joined hands, and again spoke in chorus, "Take this ring as a seal upon the marriage vows I have spoken, and as you wear it, may it be a reminder of how much I love you, not only on this precious day, but every single day of your life." When they finished, they turned to face Shawn.
Shawn stepped forward, he placed his left hand over the joined hands of Bret and Adam. He laid his Bible on the altar. "Before I pronounce you married partners, I have just one more thing I want you to do. Your wedding day is one that seems to fly. It is a day filled with emotion, friends, rings and dances. Many people remember how fleeting their own wedding day was. So, I want you to take a few seconds to look into each others eyes. Think about the happiness you are feeling in this place, in this moment. Really let that feeling register in your heart and mind. Now, I want you to think about your life together in twenty years, where are you? What are you doing? We all know that the visions of the future are not identical, but always complimentary. John Lennon once said, 'A dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together, that is reality.' That reality starts now. May the Lord Bless and keep you both. I now pronounce you married partners . Bret, you may now kiss your husband," Shawn said with a warm smile, as the tear finally escaped from his right eye.
Bret pulled Adam in for a sweet, church safe kiss. They turned to face the congregation, tears were on the cheeks of both men.
"Brothers and Sisters, I am proud to introduce, Captain and Doctor Bret Hart, or more simply, Bret and Adam Hart," Shawn said with a bright smile. He had made it, and he was so happy for his friend and "son".
The organist began to play, "Trumpet Voluntary" as the newlyweds made their way up the aisle, to the back of the church. They would pose for pictures with the rest of the wedding party before the reception.
Jay came down with Jerry, Heath with John and Wade with Phil. Hunter stepped up and offered his arm to Shawn. They all came down the aisle proudly. When they got to the back of the Chapel, the newlyweds had vanished. With a wink, Jay nodded to the door of the "Brides" Room which was just off the Chapel entry.
Bret pulled Adam into the "Bride's" Room. He just wanted a couple of minutes before the photo chaos began. "You look more beautiful than I could have imagined, Mister Hart," Bret said softly as he held his new husband in his arms.
Adam flushed a bit, "no more handsome than you, Captain Hart. I'm glad you were pleased and I'm glad I remembered everything I was supposed to say," Adam said as he relaxed in Bret's arms. He knew as long as Bret held him he was loved and safe.
"Same here, but once I started, it call came to my mind. Well, I guess we'd better face the photographer," Bret said with a sigh. Now he just wanted to put Adam in the SUV and go down to Colorado Springs.
"I know, me too, but the reception will be fun," Adam said with a wink, he knew what his husband was thinking, he had the same thought.
They went out to join the others, by then all the guests had left to go to the room at the Ritchie Center. The photographer had started taking pictures of the ushers and groomsmen.
Adam wanted a special picture; so after thirty minutes of posing with everyone, the only ones left in the chapel were the newlyweds and the photographer. The rest of the wedding party wen to the reception to make sure things were going smoothly.
"I've always wanted to copy the picture that Hunter and Shawn have of their wedding rings." Adam said with a smile as he led Bret to the lectern at the front of the Chapel. There was a large reading Bible lying open on the lectern.
Adam flipped towards the back of the large Bible. He turned to First Corinthians Chapter thirteen, verses four through eight, the famous passage about "Love Is".
Bret laid his left hand so that the first part of the verse could be read. Adam placed his left hand over Bret's, so that his ring was next to his husband's. The photographer placed one of the perfect miniature pink roses under the crook of the firefighter's thumb. He snapped the pose from a few different angles.
Bret wanted one more pose, a special one of Adam. The photographer turned off all the lights. He lit a single candle on a tall silver stand. Adam stood next to the soft glow of the candle. He held the rose in his hand, his eyes were cast down as his fingers held the delicate bloom. Adam looked beautiful.
Finally they were done, the photographer packed up, ready to go to the reception. Bret and Adam rode over with him. When they arrived at the Ritchie Center, the newlywed's waited downstairs. The photographer wanted fifteen minutes to get set up before the couple would be introduced.
Up in the Marion Gottesfeld Room, the guests were enjoying the delicious meal of finger foods. There were warm appetizers and cold sandwiches, elegantly cut into small triangles. The punch was non-alcoholic as some of the guests were officially on duty.
Chris and the other Lionhearts were playing soft background music. Jay was a little sad that he couldn't dance with Heath, but he was proud of his Petal as he played his guitar.
Heath set the lead while Kofi set the rhythm with his guitar. Mike gave the steady undertone with his bass, Alex played the melody on his keyboard, while Evan brought it all together with his beat of the drums. Chris' voice added the final touches as they sang a "soft and easy" versions of their songs.
Shawn was making sure everyone was finding what they needed and Wade and his Adam helped the guests find their name cards on the tables. Some had started using their cameras but most waited for the newlyweds.
"In a few hours from now, you'll be naked and begging for me, won't you my little slut?" Bret whispered hotly in Adam's ear. Oh how he wished they were in the "Springs".
Adam flushed furiously, he had to work hard to keep his cock under control. It wouldn't do to walk into the reception room with a raging tent pitched in his pants, and white ones to boot!
"Bear, behave! We'll dance, cut cake, toast and then we can leave. I want my cake and there is a surprise for you," Adam's voice was almost sing-song as he teased about the surprise.
Before Bret could respond, Wade came out of the elevator. "Everything is all ready. It looks great up there and the food is delicious!" the Englishman said in a happy tone.
The three men got on the elevator and went up to the floor where the Gottesfeld Room was located. "Okay, wait here. Jay will announce you," Wade said when they got to the door of the room.
Chris and The Lionhearts started playing a soft version of "Your Sex is on Fire". Instead of singing, Chris played along on his bass guitar. Jay had told the band the song was the ring tone Adam used for Bret. Jason used Chris' microphone, he stood center "stage" on the band platform, "Ladies and Gentlemen! Your attention please! Jay paused as the guests turned their attention to him.
"I would like you to welcome our newlyweds! Ladies and Gentleman, I present, Mister and Mister Bret Sargent Hart!" Jay swept his arm toward the door, a stage hand from the band swung a spotlight to the door as Wade opened it and stood aside.
Bret and Adam were swept into the room by rousing cheers and applause from the guests. The Lionhearts played a bit louder. More cheers erupted when Bret gave Adam a very non Church kiss. It left Adam flushed and breathless.
The reception line was formed and the band played softly while the guests congratulated the couple. After everyone else had shook hands or hugged the newlyweds, the band went to give their congratulations.
Chris Jericho was the last one in the line. He pulled Adam in for a hug,"Congratulations Kitten. I mean it. I know with Bret you will be happy; forever. Good luck and God Bless. I love you, Kitty," his words were honest and heartfelt.
"Thank you, Chris. I will be. Good luck to you and Evan. I love you too, Lion," Adam's reply was just as honest. The two former lovers hugged again. They would always keep a small part of each other in their hearts.
Bret and Chris shook hands. Chris hesitated, then leaned in to speak to the Captain, "Take care of him Captain Hart, he above all, deserves it. He loves you so much. You are a lucky man. Good luck and congratulations," his tone, like with Adam was honest.
"Thanks," Bret replied simply, with a smile. He understood how hard this must be for Jericho. There was no need to say more.
When the band had been through the reception line, they began to play again. A few couples danced, several were taking pictures and the rest were eating. Bret led Adam to the buffet table and together they filled their plates. The newlyweds sat at a table with the Helmsley's, Jason, Chief Lawler, Wade and Adam Rose. Jason was a bit nervous, as best man he had to make a toast. What could he say about his sweet brother without breaking down in a fit of tears.
Well he couldn't put it off. He gave a nod to Heath, on the stage. The red-head whispered something to Jericho. Chris nodded and directed the band to play a "fanfare".
William Jason Copeland-Reso stood, "If I may have your attention please..." he paused for a moment while people settled into their seats. "As best man for my brother, it's time for me to make my toast. What can I say? I tried to think of something funny, but it all sounded so forced. I'm going to keep it simple. Adam, my brother, I love you. No one deserves to be happy more than you. You came through so much and still managed to finish medical school. Ma would have been so proud of you. Addy, our little Addy. Bret, take good care of our little boy. I love you both, to Adam and Bret Hart," Jason raised his cup of punch. The guests raised theirs and drank in unison to the couple.
When Jason sat, Chief Jerry Lawler stood, "Well, as Bret's best man, it's now my turn to offer a toast. Bret, you too have come through a lot of adversity as you moved up the ranks of the Department. I know how happy Adam has made you, and no one deserves it more. I wish you both all the love, joy and happiness you so richly deserve. To Bret and Adam, the Harts," Jerry raised his glass and once again the guests toasted the couple. The toasts were followed by rousing cheers.
It was time to cut the cake. Adam let Bret to the table where their four tiered cake was waiting. Two other cakes sat to the left and right of the main cake. They were hidden from view with cloths.
Adam lifted the cloths from the two side cakes. One was sculpted to look like a doctor's bag, filled with equipment. It all looked so real. The groom's cake was a perfect replica of Bret's Captain's fire helmet. Bret loved his surprise and rewarded Adam with a sound kiss. The guests, who had gathered to watch, cheered loudly.
With Bret's hand on top of Adam's, they cut the first slice of their wedding cake. Bret raised the slice to Adam's lips, the "bride" took a small bite. Bret smiled as Adam's tongue licked away a bit of icing from the corner of his mouth. That glorious tongue, Bret knew exactly what it could do.
Adam took a slice of cake and Bret took a big bite, he caught Adam's finger in his teeth. He gave the finger a long, seductive lick, it made Adam flush. The guests laughed, the couple was so cute.
Wade and Adam Rose took over slicing and serving the wedding cake on to small plates. Shawn would take the small top-tier home and freeze it. Bret and Adam could have it for their first anniversary.
While the cake was being served, Bret and Adam moved down the table to share their drink and toast each other. They had picked out two antique Art Deco champagne glasses. They had sky blue and silver ribbons tied around the stems, along with the same pink and white miniature roses used at the wedding.
Bret filled their glasses with non-alcoholic champagne. They each took a glass and twined their arms together at the elbow. It was a gesture that symbolized the joining and twining of their lives together.
"To my husband, I love you, Adam. You are not only my husband and lover, but my dearest friend. You have been there in my darkest hours, and my most happy. I can't wait to build a life with you. I love you so damn much," Bret's words and eyes were full of emotion as he spoke.
Adam cleared his throat as a tear dripped down his cheek, "to my husband. I love you. You have been the best friend I've ever had; that wasn't family. You listen to me, help me, take care of me. More than that, you let me help you, and take care of you. You are a true soul mate. When I thought I'd lost you, part of me went with you. I'm so glad you came back to me. I also want to thank Davy, for letting me share you heart. I can't wait to build a life with you. I love you so damn much. To Bret... and to Davy," Adam whispered the last three words so softly, only Bret heard them over the ovation from the guests.
The newlyweds sipped from their glasses. When they finished, Bret pulled Adam in for a deep kiss. He was so happy Adam had openly spoke of Davy, it touched his soul. His boy was so sweet and selfless. He loved Adam so very much.
The Lionhearts let a loud chord echo through the room. The newlyweds and guests turned to the stage. "It's time for our newlyweds to share their first dance. This song, by the great Leonard Cohen, is special to our couple. It was the first song they ever danced to, so now we play it in honor of their first married dance. So please, enjoy "Dance me to the End of Love". Adam, Bret this is for you," Chris spoke over the ballad the band had begun to play.
The stage hand flashed the spotlight on the newlyweds as Bret led Adam to the center of the dance floor. He wrapped his arms around Adam's slender waist as Adam's arms went around Bret's neck. Forehead to forehead they danced to the beautiful song. They were lost in each other, their souls intertwined as they moved across the dance floor. The love poured from them and poured like a flood over all who watched. There was hardly a dry eye in the room.
Near the end of the song, Hunter and Shawn joined the couple. Heath gave his guitar to Chris, who took over playing as he sang, and went to his husband. Jay took Heath's hand and they joined in the dance for the last chorus.
Chris announced that the next few songs would be played from CD's so that he and the other Lionhearts could join in the dancing. When the music began, Bret danced with Shawn and Hunter with Adam. The best men had one dance together as Jay and Jerry danced. It was a tad awkward for Jerry, as it was different from dancing with his wife, but they managed, rather well actually.
Bret's hands rested on Shawn's hips and Shawn's were on his friends shoulders. "Take care of him, Bret. I know you've slept together, I'm not talking about that. I mean... he can be so fragile at times, especially when he loses a patient or has a hard case. He gets emotionally involved, that's part of what makes him such a good doctor, but it's also the worst part of being a physician. Just be there for him, he needs someone steady, like you," Shawn stumbled over his words a bit. He felt like a parent lecturing, it was a strange feeling as Bret had been in his life for so many years first.
Bret smiled, "I will momma Shawn. We keep each other grounded. You knew before we did didn't you?" he asked as he danced Shawn over the floor.
"I could see it before you did. The two of you just lit up around each other. That day, at the mall, when we were shopping for the apartment residents, the way you and Wade snapped at each other, you almost lost him. Bret, I hope I didn't get too pushy, but I felt you needed a bit of tough love, to open your eyes," Shawn said with a soft tone. He hoped Bret knew what he was trying to say.
"I needed to hear those things, Shawn. I needed to really let go of Davy, you made me realize that. I thank you for it. You're a good friend, Shawn, and I love you," Bret said with very chaste kiss to the nurse's lips. They continued to dance in peaceful silence. Nothing more needed to be said between the friends.
Adam's head rested on Hunter's shoulder as they danced. Hunter smiled, "you're a good boy, Adam. When you come back to work, after your honeymoon, I want you to take on more administrative duties. I know you want to do the surgery class, but I want you to think about it. I want you to be able to take over my job in a year, maybe two. Backlund is going to retire, and Heyman is up for his job at the University. That means I'm up for Paul's job as the Hospital Administrator, so you will get my job, if you want it. So, I wanted to give you plenty of time to think about it, seriously and talk to Buddy about it too," Hunter finally told Adam the news. Nothing had been sure until a few days ago, when Doctor Backlund announced his plan to retire in about eighteen months, at a board meeting.
Adam looked at Hunter, "you... think I'm ready? I did want to do the surgery course, but honestly I don't know. I must be honest, I'd love to have your job, but I should take some business Admin classes first. I'll talk to Bret. Thanks for the vote of confidence in me. I love you... dad," Adam said with a smile. He felt right about calling Hunter "dad". After all he was, along with Shawn the only father figure he'd ever had.
"I like that, you can call me 'dad' all you want, and poppa for Shawn. You have plenty of time to think about it, so don't fret over it. If you do take my place, would you name Wade as your Assistant?" Hunter asked with a bit of puffed up pride at Adam calling him 'dad'.
"Probably. Dolph is too... flighty and Cody and Teddy aren't ready yet. Wade is the most experienced, and now that he is staying, he'll be dependable. He is really a changed man, Adam has a lot to do with that. Talk about a whirlwind romance. Well, as he said, when you know, you know so why put it off," Adam said with a laugh. They finished the dance. Each man went back to his own spouse.
The music that played on the CD was one that The Lionhearts had made just for the wedding, as they knew they would want to dance too at some point. Chris moved a little slowly, but considering the extent of the injuries he had sustained, was lucky to even be alive, let alone dancing. His voice was in perfect form, the hours and hours of exhausting rehab had paid off. Evan was so proud as they slowly moved around the dance floor.
"I'm ready to get out of here. Where is your suitcase?" Bret asked as he danced with his husband.
"Me too. In your SUV, Hunter gave it to Jerry, he had a spare key. A whole week at the 'Springs', let's go," Adam said in a happy, excited tone. He couldn't wait to get to the Broadmoor, but more than anything, he wanted to consummate his marriage.
When the song ended, Bret spoke, "Okay everyone, we're going to head out now, we have a drive ahead of us. My husband and I want to thank all of you for sharing our wedding day with us. Please, stay and enjoy yourselves. Thank you again for coming!" Bret spoke with a warm smile.
Everyone clapped and cheered. They followed the couple down the stairs, singing, "Oh how we danced on the night we were wed...," When they all arrived at the SUV, one "JUST MARRIED" sign had been placed on the back of the departmental SUV. They had thought about taking the Mustang, but the SUV was better if the roads turned icy.
The Copeland brothers hugged, then Hunter and Shawn, Heath, Chris, Evan and the last hugs went to Wade and Adam Rose. The guests threw bird seed instead of rice as Bret helped Adam into the SUV.
Bret got in, he gave the lights and siren a short blast as they pulled away. Brother and faux parents waved with tear filled eyes. They were all so happy for the newlyweds.
Bret and Adam Hart were off to Colorado Springs, ready to begin the celebration of their life; together.