"Oh Maggie. You are so beautiful!" Charlie has tears in her eyes as she stands behind her soon to be step mother. They are both looking at Maggie's reflection in the ornate floor length mirror of the dressing room in the back of the church. Maggie is radiant in her ivory wedding dress. Her hair is up in a classy chignon. Her makeup is simple. Her smile lights up the room.
"Thanks Love. I just can't believe this day is finally here." Maggie smoothes the skirt of her dress absently as she looks in the mirror.
"I have something for you." Charlie says with a smile.
"Oh Charlie. You didn't have to give me anything at all."
"I know, but I wanted to." Charlie holds out a small white box.
Maggie takes it and looks inside. "This is beautiful. I love it!" She picks up the small platinum charm. It is in the shape of a heart, and in the center is a sparkling sapphire.
"It's for your charm bracelet of course, but today I thought we could attach it around your bouquet with a ribbon. It can be your something blue."
"It's so pretty Charlie. Thank you." Maggie gives her a hug just as Nora and Priscilla come in.
They both ooh and ah over Maggie and then Nora says, "We have something for you too, but you won't be taking it down the aisle. It's more of a 'save it for later' kind of gift."
Priscilla hands Maggie a box. She pulls away the ribbon that surrounds it and laughs when she sees what's inside.
"What is it?" Charlie asks curiously.
Maggie is blushing furiously as she lifts a tiny pink negligee out of the box to show Charlie. Charlie smiles and laughs with the others.
Priscilla points to the box, "There are matching tiny panties too." She says with a mischievous grin. You can use this little number when you get to Hawaii for your honeymoon. I bet you don't even leave your room."
"Stop!" Charlie laughs. "Don't forget you're talking about my Dad. This is getting too weird for me."
Nora chuckles. "Sorry Charlie."
"Hey Charlie, speaking of skimpy lingerie, how are you and Bass doing?"
It's Charlie's turn to blush. "We're fine. We're better than fine."
"They're fine allright." Nora says with a smirk, "but they aren't very quiet. Don't know how many times I've had to turn up the mood music in the gallery because of the sounds coming from upstairs."
Priscilla grins, "You go girl." She sighs. "I still say he's gotta be as tasty as can be. You gonna spill any details?"
Charlie shakes her head no. "I don't think so…except to say, whatever you are thinking – he's way better." She smiles coyly as the other women laugh.
Just then there is a knock on the dressing room door. Miles pokes his head in. "It's time Ladies." He says with a smirk before closing the door. They can hear him humming the wedding march as he retreats down the hall.
"Might be your turn next Nora." Priscilla says. "Seems like Miles is enjoying this."
Nora shrugs. "We'll see. Neither of us is in a hurry. Things are good the way they are."
Priscilla snorts. "That's what I thought about Aaron and me. One day we talked about maybe someday possibly thinking about getting married, and the next day he flies me to Vegas on his jet and we eloped. So, you never know."
Maggie breaks in, "Well girls, technically I think I'm next. You all ready to do this with me?"
The three bridesmaids nod and check each other's hair and makeup before heading out the dressing room door. Charlie lags behind. "Hey Maggie."
"Yes Charlie?"
"I'm glad it's you." Charlie says, tears glistening. "I'm glad you are the one Dad fell in love with."
Maggie hugs Charlie tight. "I love you Charlie, and I love Danny and of course your Dad. I want nothing other than to make him happy."
"Well, you're off to a good start. He's never been happier."
Maggie pulls back and looks at her with a warm smile, "I think the same can be said for you, Love."
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The ceremony is beautiful. The sanctuary of the old church is decorated with white gardenias and swaths of ivory silk. Classical music plays softly in the background. Everything is simple and elegant – exactly like the bride.
When Maggie walks in between her two grown sons, she is radiant and lovely. Her boys are handsome and obviously happy for their Mom. Ben watches from his place near the altar. A broad smile stretches across his face. At his side stands his Best Man Miles, as well as Aaron and Danny all wearing tuxes. Charlie is the Maid of Honor and stands next to Nora and Priscilla. The ladies are all wearing the blue dresses they'd picked weeks before.
Charlie tries to keep her eyes on Maggie and her Dad. They are so obviously in love. She can't help herself though. Her gaze is drawn to the audience – groom's side – half way back – near the center. Bass. Every time she finds him, he's watching her. She supposes it should be unnerving, but the love she sees in his eyes is anything but.
The minister speaks for a few minutes. Charlie pretends to listen but if anyone asks what is said, she'd be at a loss. There is a soloist who sings a song Charlie doesn't know. It's beautiful and sweet and she watches as her Dad and Maggie reach out and hold hands. Everything is perfect. Every moment is filled with love. Still she can't stop glancing at Bass. When the minister says Charlie's name she pulls her gaze from his just long enough to move to the microphone so that she can give the reading her father has picked. She's been practicing and knows most of it by heart...
From the beginning of my life I have been looking for your face, but today I have seen it.
Today I have seen the charm, the beauty, the unfathomable grace of the face that I was looking for.
Today I have found you…
Charlie finds Bass among the other guests again, and her heart lurches as his smile grows. They speak with their eyes in this moment. He is saying he thinks she's beautiful. She is saying she's so very glad he's here.
I am bewildered by the magnificence of your beauty, and wish to see you with a hundred eyes.
My heart has burned with passion and has searched forever for this wondrous beauty that I now behold.
I am ashamed to call this love human, and afraid of God to call it divine…
Again her eyes are drawn to his like a moth to a flame. Charlie smiles as she speaks, and forgets why she's here. She is speaking to him. She is speaking of their love. He nods almost imperceptibly. He understands. He agrees. His smile warms her from within.
I have become your sunshine, and also your shadow.
My soul is screaming in ecstasy. Every fiber of my being is in love with you.
Your light has lit a fire in my heart, and you have made radiant for me the earth and sky.
My arrow of love has arrived at the target….
As she goes on to finish the reading, there are many misty eyes throughout the room. The minister takes over again and leads the bride and groom through their vows. He pronounces them husband and wife and then they share their first kiss as a married couple. The crowd cheers as 'Happy Together' by the Turtles begins to play over the sound system. The mood is joyful and celebratory.
As soon as she can extricate herself from the wedding party, Charlie does so. Bass is waiting and she falls into his arms with a contented sigh. He presses a soft kiss to her temple, "You were wonderful in there." Hs says softly, "And oh so beautiful. The dress, it's stunning. You are stunning."
"Thanks Bass." Charlie can't help but blush a little at his blatant admiration. "It helped knowing you were watching." She sighs. "I can get through anything as long as you are on my side."
"Well then you're in luck Charlie." He smiles, "I'm not going anywhere."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"Okay you idiots," Miles calls out over the din of the reception, "Can I have your attention? It's time for me to give my Best Man toast."
"Best Man, my ass!" yells out an already drunk Aaron. "Shoulda been me."
"Shut up and sit down Pittman." Miles scowls before turning to look at the newlyweds who are laughing at the head table. Miles grins, "Ben, you are my only brother. I remember when you stole my G.I. Joes and painted them pink. I remember when you told Susie McEntire that I was a bed wetter. I remember the summer you tied me and Bass up in the tree house and told Mom we'd run away…" Ben is laughing so hard he's in tears. Miles continues, "The thing is that tonight I get a unique opportunity. Do you know what that is Ben?"
Ben shakes his head, "No idea Miles. Enlighten me." He's wiping his eyes.
"Tonight I get to give my big brother a bit of pay back, and in case you didn't know… pay back's a bitch my brother. Pay back's a bitch." Miles grins evilly then turns to Maggie, "You Maggie are one of the sweetest most wonderful women I've ever had the pleasure to meet, and I have no idea why you'd want to marry my brother. You, frankly, deserve more."
"Hey, be nice." Ben laughs, but he now looks a little leery as he watches his brother.
Miles shakes his head and shrugs as if to say he's not in control. "Can't do it Ben. I really liked Susie McEntire." The room erupts in laughter, and Miles continues, "You deserve more than a guy whose first crush was Blanche from The Golden Girls." There are cheers and catcalls, but Miles isn't done. "You deserve more than a guy who cried the first time he was pulled over for speeding." Miles grins directly at Ben, and Ben knows the worst is coming. Miles continues, "Maggie, you deserve more than a guy who got so drunk on his twenty-first birthday that he – "
"Miles." Ben's voice is full of warning.
Miles ignores him and presses on, "He was so drunk he didn't realize the stripper with the huge tits he was making out with was in fact, a dude, until that tidbit became too obvious to miss." Now the room is going crazy. Ben's face is red, and Maggie is trying hard not to burst out laughing. Miles tilts his head to the side and looks at Maggie again, "You deserve better, but," He pauses for a moment before continuing. "I'm glad you were willing to settle for this jerk, because in spite of all his shortcomings – and believe me there are many – he really loves you. He loves you in the way a man needs to love a woman. He is a much better version of himself when he's with you. Thank you for that." Miles lifts his glass, "Here's to my dick of a brother, and his beautiful bride, whom he does not deserve."
Everyone drinks, and then Aaron calls out, "Bet you wish you'd picked me now, eh Ben?"
As the laughter dies down, Charlie stands. It is her turn to give a toast. "Hey guys," she says to the room before turning her gaze to her Dad and his new wife. "When I was a little girl, my Dad told me that someday I would fall in love. He told me love was a miracle and that it is precious and that it should never be taken for granted. He told me that when I found that love, I would know because my heart would only feel complete when I was with that person. He said I should cherish that love and nurture it and hold it tightly in my heart." She smiles, tears glistening in her eyes. "I thought for a long time that he told me all of this stuff because my Mom had died and he was trying to give me hope. Now I know the truth. He wasn't giving me hope – well, he was, but that wasn't the only thing he was doing. He was also reminding himself to have hope…hope that another love waited for him." Charlie raises her glass, "Dad, I'm so glad you had hope, and that you found love again. And Maggie, thank you for being the woman that has given my Dad a second chance at love. I will be proud to call you Mom, assuming that's okay?" Maggie nods, tears streaming. Charlie continues, "No matter what Miles says, you are both wonderful, and we all wish you a lifetime of happiness. To the newlyweds!"
The crowd cheers and the drinks are flowing and the music starts. Ben and Maggie make their way to the dance floor for their first dance and Charlie wanders into the sea of tables in search of her 'plus one'.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Charlie has just made her way to where Bass is sitting at a side table with Danny's girlfriend Gina and some random single people. "I'm not loving this whole wedding party table business." Charlie growls with a pout, before sitting squarely on Bass' lap. "It sucks that we aren't at the same table."
Bass bites playfully at her ear, "Seems like we're sitting pretty closely right now." He slides a hand under the hem of her dress, stroking the flesh of her thigh as he takes her lips with his own. "I liked your toast." He says softly as Charlie moves closer, her fingers toying with the curls at the nape of his neck.
"Oh hell. Save it for later you guys." Miles laughs, "Charlie we're up."
"What are you talking about Miles?" Charlie looks distracted and then leans back for another kiss from Bass, already forgetting her Uncle is there.
Miles grabs her hand and pulls her to a standing position. "We're supposed to dance Charlie. The whole Maid of Honor/Best Man thing… ringing any bells lover girl?"
Charlie laughs, playfully punching Miles in the shoulder. "Fine. I'm coming." She looks back at Bass as Miles pulls her away, her expression a little sad.
"Save the next one for me!" Bass calls after them.
"Sorry Bass, my next dance will be with Nora." Miles smirks.
Bass laughs, "You're a dick Miles."
His best friend shrugs, "I do what I can." Then he twirls his niece onto the dance floor and they dance.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"How ya doing Kid?" Miles asks her as they make their way around the dance floor. "Today has to be a little hard on you."
She shrugs, "It's not so bad. You know I really do love Maggie. And she makes Dad so happy."
"Yes she does." Miles sighs. "I'm happy for them both. Hard not to think about your Mom today though."
"Yeah, I know." Charlie looks up into her Uncle's eyes, and sees a sadness there. "You miss her too." It's not a question.
Miles looks away, not able to face Charlie's intent gaze, "Yes. I do."
They don't speak for the rest of the dance, each lost in their own thoughts. No sooner has the last note of the song played than Bass is there, smirking at Charlie.
"My turn." He says, his eyes heated.
Miles chuckles, shaking his head as he walks off to find Nora. Bass pulls Charlie close as Aretha Franklin serenades the couples on the dance floor.
Take me to heart and I'll always love you
And nobody can make me do wrong
Take me for granted, leaving love unsure
Makes willpower weak and temptation strong
"I've missed you these last couple days." His breath is warm on her ear as he speaks. "With all your family stuff, and the rehearsal and well, today…I feel like I haven't seen much of you at all."
"I know." Charlie sighs, curling into his body as best she can on the dance floor. "I missed you too."
A woman's only human
You should understand
She's not just a plaything
She's flesh and blood just like her man
Bass is an excellent dancer, and Charlie is reminded with every step of something else he's very excellent at. "I uh want to get out of here." She breathes softly.
"I'm pretty sure the Maid of Honor is supposed to stick around a little while." Bass is grinning though. He understands her desire to leave because he feels the same way.
"Well," she says, trailing kisses along his jaw, "Maybe we could just leave for a little bit and come back?" She moves her body against his, pressing in all the right places and Bass feels his body responding.
"Damnit Charlie," he groans. "Where could we go?"
"I know just the place." She giggles as an idea occurs. "Come with me."
They say that it's a man's world
Well you can improve that by me
And as long as we're together baby
Show some respect for me
They leave the dance floor before the song is even over. Charlie pulls Bass along through the crowd. They get to the reception hall's big entrance doors and go through them into the foyer. "This way." She says with a smile as she leads him into the coat check room. The September evening is mild, so there have been very few coats checked tonight. The space is dark, shadowy and unoccupied. They can still hear the music here, but it is much quieter.
If you want a do right, all day woman
You've gotta be a do right, all night man
"Perfect." Bass mutters before taking her mouth in a needy kiss. They both sense the urgency of the moment. This will not be one of those times when they can linger and tease. Time is of the essence. Hands are roaming and breathing is already ragged. Charlie reaches for his waistband and he chuckles against her mouth. "In a hurry?" he asks, but even as he does so; he's lifting the hem of her dress and pressing her body against the back wall. Their mouths are a tangle of tongues and intensity as he finds the silk of her panties. The fragile fabric is already wet with her need for him. Bass groans as his fingers slip under the elastic and he pulls. She helps him slide the panties down her legs, and then his fingers are searching her velvety folds, seeking out the tender knot that sends quakes through her body when he rubs tiny circles across it with his thumb. Charlie presses against his hand as she bites lightly at his lower lip. The kiss, already intense, takes on a new level of want. Mouths clash together hotly, teeth scrape at lips, tongues explore urgently.
She is unbuckling his belt and he begins to search the room for a place…anything really to make this all easier. He spots a counter that lines one wall. "Over there." He says urgently, backing her to the counter and hoisting her up on it in one easy movement. She finishes with his belt but is struggling with the button on his pants, so he reaches down to help her with shaking fingers.
With his throbbing cock free at last, Bass wastes no time, pushing into her tight opening with a growl as she wraps her long legs around his back, her heels digging into his ass. Their mouths crush against each other as he thrusts deeply into her wet heat. Bass reaches for her breast with one hand, tweaking the nipple through the supple blue fabric of her dress. The fingers of his other hand firmly grasp her hip, holding her in place as he pumps into her over and over.
It doesn't take long. Bass feels her vaginal walls contracting as she jerks her hips closer to his, meeting each thrust with mirrored movements of her own. She is shuddering around him when he too finds his release, convulsing into her core with a gasp. Spent, Bass leans his forehead against Charlie's. They share an intimate smile and he leans in to kiss her mouth once more – softly this time - savoring the taste of her. They are lost in the moment, hesitant to break apart when suddenly the door to the room opens and the lights are flipped on.
"Charlie, everyone is looking for you…." There is a stunned silence followed by, "You have got to be kiddng me. " The visitor does not sound happy at all to have discovered them together.
"Dad?" Charlie feels like she may die. He has the decency to turn around quickly, but he doesn't leave right away.
"Charlie, I want to talk to you." Ben says without facing them. "Bass don't go far. I'll be talking to you next." His voice sounds deadly calm. He opens the door and walks out, leaving behind a very stunned Charlie and Bass.
"Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh my God." Charlie is mortified.
Bass feels shaky. The blood has drained from his face. "Shit." He pulls from her reluctantly. They both quickly put themselves back together and start walking toward the door. Bass stops her. "Hey, it's gonna be okay. We're in this together and we are adults." Charlie nods, but he can tell she's not handling this well. "I love you. Nothing your Dad says is going to change that." This time when she nods, he sees some resolve.
She even flashes him a tiny smile. "Love you too Bass." She takes his hand and they walk through the door, fingers still entwined in a show of solidarity.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
When they leave the coat check room, they see Ben standing against the opposite wall next to a low bench, his head leans back against the bricks, his eyes are closed. He does not look like a happy man. He hears them approach and opens his eyes. "I want to talk to you Bass, but first I need to talk to Charlie." His mouth is set in a firm line.
Bass nods and says to them both, "I'll just be down there on that bench." He squeezes Charlie's hand before walking down to the place he'd identified. He sits down slowly, thinking of how stupid it was to give in to temptation here at Ben's wedding. Damnit. Ben is like a brother, or had been at one time. Bass doesn't want to have let him down, but on the other hand he loves Charlie. He will fight for her if he has to.
"What is going on?" Aaron Pittman appears in front of Bass, motioning toward where Charlie and Ben are sitting down the foyer. Aaron looks drunk but also concerned. "Looks intense down there?"
"Well, it's a long story." Bass says, running a hand nervously through his curls.
Aaron plops down heavily on the bench next to Bass. "I have a lot of time, and a big bottle I'd be happy to share." With that he holds out a bottle of vodka. "I get it imported from Russia. It's really good." Aaron shrugs with a little smile.
Bass chuckles nervously. "Thanks Aaron, but I'm going to have to talk to Ben here in a few minutes and explain to him why he just now found me plowing his daughter in a coat closet at his wedding…" Aaron chokes on the mouthful he'd just swallowed, but Bass continues. "Probably best that I keep a level head."
"OR," Aaron says grinning, "You should take a little swig to calm your nerves." He holds out the bottle again.
This time Bass takes it and tilts the bottle for a drink. "Wow. Aaron, that is…"
"Good, right? Smooth like butta." Aaron smiles again - very proud of himself, and nudges Bass with an elbow. "This is going to work out. Ben knew you guys were involved. I'm guessing he didn't want to SEE it, but he knew."
Bass leans back against the wall and sighs. "I've known Ben forever. He's a good guy. I don't want to disappoint him, you know?" Aaron nods, taking another drink, "But I love her Pittman. I love her more than I've ever loved anyone and I know he's going to be worried about the age difference…" Aaron nods again. "But I don't care. I'm not giving her up."
Aaron stands. He sways for a moment and then nods, "Then that's what you need to tell him Monroe. That's what Ben wants to be sure of." Aaron leans over and pats Bass on the head like he's a puppy. "Good luck." Then he walks back to the reception hall. Bass watches him leave and then glances over at Ben and Charlie.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"How serious is this thing with you and Bass?" Ben asks Charlie, still not ready to meet her eyes.
"Very." Charlie's voice is quiet. "I love him Dad."
Ben lets out a deep sigh, "How do you know? You've never really dated anyone, right? How can you be so sure?"
"Because when I'm with him, my heart feels whole and when I'm not with him…" she trails off, trying to come up with the best way to explain it. "When I'm not with him, my heart feels empty." Charlie reaches out and takes her Dad's hand. "I never meant to hurt you or anything. I'm so sorry about tonight, but you need to know that I'm not going to end things with him. I'm just not."
"Oh I didn't think you'd give him up. Sometimes you remind me so much of your Mother. She was stubborn too." His gaze is thoughtful and a little sad. "I'm glad you are in love. Do I wish it was with someone more your age? Hell yeah, but I understand not being able to plan that sort of thing. Love just happens." Ben pulls his daughter into a warm hug. "You are so important to me Charlie. I love you even if I don't love all of your choices."
They hold each other for a little while, each wiping at tears as they pull apart. "Thanks Dad."
"Tell him to come down here. You can go back to the reception."
"Please be nice to him Dad." Charlie pleads.
"I'll do what I can." Ben frowns.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Charlie approaches Bass. "Your turn." She says, her voice quiet.
"Are you okay?" He reaches out and pushes a stray strand of hair behind her ear before lovingly caressing her cheek.
Charlie nods, "Yeah, I think so. He really just wants to know it's real – that we aren't making a mistake.
"It is and we aren't."
"I know." She smiles. "Come find me when you're done."
"I will." He says before leaning in for a chaste kiss. Charlie walks toward the reception. Bass takes a deep breath and approaches Ben.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Ben gets right to it, "You realize how weird this is for me, right? You are three years younger than me but you are…" he hesitates, "You are dating my only daughter. I'm not happy about it."
"I do get that. The age difference is –"
"Vast?" Ben asks pointedly.
"Yeah, all right. The age difference is vast. Here's the thing Ben. Charlie doesn't act like a 22 year old. She's got an old soul."
"Or maybe you don't act your age?" Ben taunts.
"Maybe it's both?" Bass counters, "But it doesn't matter. For whatever reason we get along. We have fun together. We are there for each other. We're happy. We fit."
Ben scowls, "You fit? Seriously, you want to go there – about my daughter?"
"Oh hell, you know that's not what I meant Ben."
"Actually I have no idea what you meant. We haven't been close in years. You remember why we stopped being close don't you?"
"Oh hell." Bass says, remembering.
"You know I've only walked in on people having sex twice in my life. Both times involved you – today with my daughter and twenty five years ago with the girl I was dating. I don't even remember her name now…"
"Missy Ann Miller." Bass says, dropping his head into his hands. "I had forgotten about her. God that seems like a lifetime ago. I was pretty sure you were going to beat the shit out of me."
"I wanted to. God how I wanted to and I could have then. You weren't working out all the time yet." Ben chuckles a little and then shakes his head, "But I forgave you because you'd just lost your family. You were a mess."
"Yeah, I was." Bass admits. "But I'm not now. I'm not a mess and I'm not going to ask you to forgive me because I'm not sorry." Ben looks up and their eyes hold. "I love her Ben. She's different. She's not Missy Ann Miller. Charlie is different because she is the love of my life."
Ben scowls. "She said something like that too. What the hell do either of you know about love?"
"Here's what I know Ben. I know that when I see her, my heart starts pounding. I know that when she is near me I feel a peace that I don't feel any other time. I know that I can talk to her for hours about anything or nothing. I know that when I think of my future I can't wrap my head around any version that doesn't include her. I know that when I'm not with her I feel lost."
"Well, shit." Ben says, but he's not scowling anymore. "You sound serious."
"I am serious."
Ben nods slowly, "Okay. So you love her and she says she loves you. There's still something you should know."
Bass cocks an eyebrow questioningly, "Yeah?"
"I know I can't beat you up, but my best friend is one of the twenty richest men in the world. If you hurt her, all I have to do is ask him, and he will be happy to put out a hit on you. Do you understand?"
Bass isn't totally sure if Ben is kidding or not, but he smiles a little. "I understand. I'm going to do everything in my power to keep from hurting her."
Ben stands. "All right then. Let's get back to my party." He smacks Bass on the back. "And for the love of God, keep your pants on if there's even a chance I could walk in on you okay?"
Bass laughs, "Deal Ben. You got a deal."
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The party is finally winding down. Some people are starting to leave. Charlie is dancing with Maggie, Nora and Priscilla to Funky Cold Medina. Bass can't help but grin as he watches how much fun she's having with her friends. He feels a tap on his shoulder and turns to see Danny Matheson standing next to him.
"Hey Old Guy." Danny says with a smirk.
"Hey Much Younger Guy." Bass replies with a smirk of his own.
"So I hear you and Charlie had an awkward moment earlier."
"Oh hell. Why do you know about that?"
"Well, Aaron's pretty drunk and he's telling everyone. Miles, in particular, thought it was hilarious. He kept talking about deja vu. What's that about?"
"Unlike Aaron, I can keep secrets regardless of how many drinks I've had, and all that stuff is none of your business."
Danny crosses his arms, "As soon as you started dating my sister it became my business, but I'm actually not here to ask for gross details or give you shit."
"Oh?" Bass looks skeptical.
"When you two were fighting or whatever, Charlie was miserable. Now she's all happy again and having fun and not being so serious. " Danny shrugs. "I wanted to apologize to you. I thought you were all wrong for her, but now…" he hesitates. "Now I think maybe you are perfect for her. I'm glad you make her happy."
"Thanks Danny." Danny nods and turns to walk away, but Bass reaches out and stops him. "Hey, my name is Bass by the way. Feel free to use it."
Danny smiles, "Have a good night Old Man. Take good care of my sister." Then he walks away.
Bass chuckles, "Damn Mathesons."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Bass is sitting at one of the tables and Charlie is on his lap with her head on his shoulder, her arms linked loosely around his neck.
Ben and Maggie had left over an hour earlier, and only the wedding party is still around. The reception hall seems too big and far too empty now that the crowd has left. "It's time to get out of here." Bass mutters into Charlie's hair. They are both tired. It's been a long day.
As if on cue, Miles and Nora approach. "Ready?" Miles asks, holding up his car keys.
Charlie and Bass both say yes, and follow Miles and Nora to the car.
Other than some teasing that Miles just can't resist, the ride to the gallery is uneventful. Nora says she has to pick up some paperwork so she and Miles head to the office once they all enter the building. Bass' military paintings are still on display. His show was extended and has proven to be one of the most popular in The Clayton's history.
"I know I've said it before, but I'm so glad you are showing these now. They always did deserve to be seen and appreciated."
She heads for the stairs, but he pulls on her hand. "I have a surprise. Come with me."
Charlie follows as Bass leads her through the gallery and into the last of the big display rooms. From there, he takes her to a door that is tucked in a far corner. Charlie is familiar with the tiny show room. No bigger than a large closet really, it is a place that Nora reserves for special features and unusual pieces that are best shown alone. "Close your eyes." He says. She almost says no, but his expression is the perfect combination of excited and loving and she can't say no. Charlie closes her eyes and lets Bass guide her into the tiny showroom.
"Open." He says, his hands on her shoulders.
"Oh!" she gasps. Two paintings are hanging side by side. One is very large. It is Mariée. "The Chagall!" she cries, both ecstatic and confused.
"Well, it's a copy. I like to make art, not steal it." Bass chuckles, "It's for you of course. I started working on it the first day I saw how much you loved the original."
"It's amazing Bass. You did such a great job." There are tears in her eyes, as she takes in the detail and thinks about the hours he must have spent to finish this piece in secret. "I love it." She smiles up at him happily before turning to the other painting, "But this one…"
The second painting is hers. It's the portrait she'd made of her Mother. The difference between the two works is stark, but strangely there is something that feels right about them hanging side by side. "I don't understand. Why is this here?"
"Miles helped me steal that one from your apartment. I hope you don't mind too much. I wanted to show you what your work would look like hanging in a gallery. You are an amazingly talented artist Charlie. I just wanted to give you a new perspective."
She looks at the two paintings carefully. Bass' copy of the Chagall is large and detailed. Charlie's portrait of her Mom is bold but simple and much smaller than Bass' painting. Generally the two paintings couldn't be more different, but when viewed together like this, they are alike in one very important way. They are both worthy of hanging in a gallery.
"The Chagall copy is yours to keep. You can take them both home whenever you want to… assuming you don't sell yours."
"Nobody would buy the painting of my Mom." Charlie says with a frown.
Just then Nora appears at the door to the tiny room. "Actually Charlie, I've already received a significant offer."
Charlie looks at Bass, "You are trying to buy my painting?"
He shakes his head, confused. "This is the first I've heard of an offer. I don't know anything about an offer or who made it."
"It was me." Miles walks into the small room behind Nora. "I bought Dickhead's first painting." He points at Bass, "Now I want to buy yours. For the record, yours is way better than his was."
"I'm not sure how objective you are. You are my uncle after all."
"True, but I'm also wicked smart and I know quality when I see it. That," he points at the painting, "Is quality work. Your Mom would be so proud of you."
"She didn't really think I had any talent." Charlie says sadly, looking at the image of her Mother's face.
Miles laughed, "I guarantee you that is not true. She told me once that you had a brilliant future as an artist."
"Whatever," Charlie says, clearly not believing him.
"I'm serious Charlie. I don't know what you thought she said, but she thought you were very talented."
Charlie sees the sincerity in his eyes, and feels tears brimming in her own. "Thanks. That's – that's - good to know." She walks to the wall and takes down the picture of her Mom. She looks at it for a while and then walks over to Miles. "I'm sorry Miles, but this one isn't for sale." He nods, but she can see the frown he's trying to hide. Charlie holds out the painting, "It's not for sale because I want you to have it. This is my gift to you."
Miles is a little choked up as he takes the painting from his niece. "Thanks Charlie."
Nora and Bass can sense that this is a private moment, and they both leave the room.
"Miles, I know about you and my Mom. I've known for a long time."
Miles takes a deep gasping breath, "I loved your Mom, Charlie. I am so sorry for how we treated your Dad, but God I loved her."
"I know." Charlie pulls him into an embrace and they share a moment. Miles pulls away and wipes at the tears streaming down his cheeks.
"Don't ever run away from love because it's inconvenient or doesn't fit into someone else's idea of what love should be. Embrace it wherever you can find it."
Charlie nods, "I think I'm doing that, finally. Thanks for seeing that Bass and I might be a good match, and you know - putting that all in motion."
He shrugs with a smile. "I love both of you guys. I'm happy it's working out."
"Me too. And I like Nora a lot."
"Nora is a wonderful woman. I love her even though I don't deserve her."
"I think you deserve happiness wherever you can find it too." She says quietly.
"Ah Charlie. You are really an amazing gal. No wonder my best friend thinks you're all that." He grins and ruffles her hair. They exit the tiny room. Miles is holding the painting under his arm. He stops and puts his other hand on her shoulder. "One more thing Charlie."
"Yeah?"
"Don't restore other people's shit. Make your own shit. Okay? You're really good at this." He points to the portrait he's carrying.
Charlie nods. "Thanks Miles."
Bass and Nora approach, and Miles turns to his oldest friend, "And enough of the naked chick paintings Brother. Now we all know you are capable of so much more. Paint what's in your heart even if it is all that morbid war shit."
Bass grins, "Look at you, all full of advice tonight." He puts an arm around Miles' shoulders, "For the record I'm done painting naked chicks." He winks in Charlie's direction. "All but this one." Miles groans and Charlie grins happily.
"It's getting late guys." Nora says, taking hold of Miles' free arm and pulling him away from Bass. "Let's go home."
Everyone says goodnight and after a round of hugs, Miles and Nora leave, locking up behind themselves. Bass leads Charlie to his apartment above the gallery.
xxxxxxxxxxxxx
They are still awake as the first rays of sunrise peek through the window of Bass' bedroom. Naked and happy, they lie entwined on his big bed, limbs tangled in crisp white sheets. Bass traces patterns along Charlie's back as she snuggles tiredly into his side.
"The wedding was really nice." He says quietly.
"Mmmm, yeah it was." Charlie sounds very sleepy.
"You ever think about having one of those?" He feels her tense slightly before leaning up on an elbow to look at him closely.
"One of those, what? A wedding?"
"Yeah." He shrugs. "You ever – I don't know – think about that?"
She smiles slowly, "If this is your idea of a proposal, I gotta say it's not exactly the romantic gesture I have been envisioning since Junior High."
He laughs, "I'm not proposing Charlie, just…" he hesitates, "Just testing the waters I guess."
She relaxes against him again, "Yeah, Bass. I've thought about it."
"With all guys you've known since Junior High or one guy in particular?" he teases.
"I'm not sure I should say. If a guy is going to ask that question, why would I ruin it by giving him the answer before he even asks?" she's laughing at him and he kisses the top of her head.
"I'm not in a hurry Charlie, but I love you and you are my future."
"I love you too." Charlie nuzzles his throat, pressing a soft kiss to his pulse point.
"Someday maybe I'll do the whole romantic gesture thing. That work for you?"
"Someday maybe I'll say yes if you do the whole romantic gesture thing." Charlie grins at him.
They snuggle in silence for a while. Bass remembers something, "How did the meeting with your counselor at school go?"
"When classes start in a few weeks, my major will officially change from art history to fine arts. The classes I signed up for are almost all drawing or painting." He can hear the excitement in her voice.
"I'm so proud of you Charlie. You are amazing."
"I think you are biased, but thanks." She props herself up a little. "How about you? Still talking to Joe?"
"Yeah. You know we meet for coffee just about every day and he's convinced me to join this veterans' support group. It will be hard at first, but I think I need to do it. And that art show I've been planning for the VA that will feature work by a lot of different veterans… well, it's coming along nicely too. Should be up and running by the first of the year."
"Seems to me like you're pretty amazing yourself, Bass."
"Maybe we're both biased." He laughs.
"Or maybe we're both amazing?"
"Well I know one thing we're definitely amazing at…" he leans in and kisses the flesh behind her ear. He grins when Charlie makes a throaty noise of appreciation. Bass moves his mouth to cover hers, dipping his tongue between her lips. He tastes and explores and then she's joining in, sucking on his tongue. Charlie licks at the ridge of his teeth before biting down lightly on his lip, pulling gently. Bass groans, reaching for Charlie's thigh and lifting it over his hip. He rolls her to her back, settling between her legs, ready but holding off. She strokes her fingertips gently up and down his back, hooking a leg around him, urging him to enter.
He hesitates, being sure to catch her gaze. Bass stares into Charlie's eyes, soaking up the heat, the need, the love that he sees there. "I love you Charlotte." With that, he thrusts slowly, rolling his hips to fill her completely. She arches her lower body, tilting her pelvis to take him deeper. She is so tight and so wet and he thinks there is nowhere else he'll ever want to be. Their lips meet again, and the kiss is sweet and playful, slowly growing in urgency as the tempo escalates. He feels his balls tightening, and wants Charlie to be right there with him. Bass reaches between their bodies and begins to stroke her clit with the flat of his thumb. He thrusts deep and hard, pushing against her cervix as he comes in a rush. She follows in moments, her walls clenching him tight and milking him dry.
They are shaky but satisfied. Bass lifts his body weight from her form without vacating. He loves the way her pussy holds him in place, caressing his cock with the aftershocks of her orgasm.
"That was – " Charlie sighs.
"Yeah it was."
Slowly they untangle. Charlie curls against Bass, her head on his shoulder. His arms are around her and even though the day is fully upon them they are both exhausted and on the verge of sleep.
"Hey Bass?"
"Charlie?" he doesn't open his eyes, but he smiles.
"When does this end?"
"Uh, I guess I was thinking never?" he's looking at her now curiously.
She laughs, "I don't mean us. I mean this." She motions around them at his apartment. "This artist is residence thing was for the summer, right?"
"Yeah. I have to find a new place in a couple weeks. I've been looking, but nothing was right so far."
"I have an idea about that." Her voice is soft. She runs her fingers through his curls, pulling his face closer to her own.
"Oh? What idea is that?"
"I was thinking, maybe you could move in with me. Wouldn't it be nice to go to bed together every night and to wake up together every morning?"
"Mmm, yeah that would be nice. And to have dinner parties for our friends… to shower together, and fight over the crosswords or the arts section on Sunday morning?" he counters with a sleepy grin.
"To never again have the 'your place or mine' discussion."
"Breakfast in bed…and lots of other stuff in bed."
She hugs him, "We can share my little studio. It will be a tight fit, but we could paint together."
"I can work on my masterpiece." He strokes her hair softly.
"What masterpiece is that?" She's curious.
"Remember that first time we were together?"
She laughs, "Uh, yeah Bass. Hard to forget."
"Well, you said that you were a blank canvas and it was my job to fill in all the details, add in the brush strokes, whatever."
"Yeah, I remember."
"Well, I'm going to spend the rest of my life working on that. You are my masterpiece, Charlie."
She shakes her head. "No Bass. We are the masterpiece…US, and we'll fill in the details together."
"I like the sound of that."
The two exhausted lovers fall asleep, happy and content in the knowledge that their future is ripe with promise – full of passion, love, art, and most importantly, each other.
**************
"In our life there is a single color, as on an artist's palette, which provides the meaning of life and art.
It is the color of love." –Marc Chagall
**END**
Author's Note: And there it is: the final chapter of "Brush Strokes". There will be an epilogue. Look for it to be published in the next week or so. I owe a huge thank you to the amazing and talented Priya who not only came up with the original idea, but helped to shape this story and who was also a blast to work with.
Song credit in this chapter goes to Aretha Franklin for "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man". Charlie's wedding reading is from "Looking For Your Face" by Rumi.
I hope you enjoyed this story. AU isn't for everyone, but for those of you who stuck with us, commented, favorited, followed, etc – our hats off to you! Thanks.