A/N: Did some of y'all actually think ITDE was completely over? Cammannnnn! We've come this far. There's still a wedding to plan. And from the looks of this chapter, it looks like it's already been planned… ;)
If you love Roman Reigns one-shots (and Shield one-shots in general), look up JxTina's profile page. She is an exquisite, skilled writer and even though I only just found her work I already look up to her in terms of her narrative and descriptive content, which I feel I still need to improve on my own part. I admire her work a lot and once you read her stories I believe you'll feel the same way.
Thank you to Sasha, BillionDollarPrinceStephanie, Godschildtweety, ChelleLew, darkcloud77, 4life, CarolReigns, Ctinaisfashion, corbettluv, benova13, Bharm, Lucy1029, ItReignsJustice-619, Paisley2, jade, justkimmy, DeeMarie426, 33, Olivia Reigns, Chermayne, sixxyb, Shield316, JxTina, Tammy, nikki1335, IRENELOVE83, mitchy21, CFierce116, princessreigns, fenner82, ApSnowball, Guest and SecondCitySavage for the reviews. So many of them too! Thanks guys! :D
Hope y'all don't mind a bit of fluff...enjoy!
Ten months later; Pensacola, FL.
Running her sweaty palms down her torso, Sasha stood in the middle of the empty bedroom, in complete awe of the woman staring back at her in the full-length mirror.
She could not emphasize enough how much she loved her wedding dress. It was a long, ivory lace mermaid gown with a sweetheart neckline. The dress hugged her from her bust to the middle of her thighs, then flared around her in a lace and organza waterfall. The sleeves were a complex mesh and lace embroidery that wrapped all the way up her arms to the tops of her shoulders. Adorning her well-pedicured feet were Giuseppe Zanotti sandals that she ordered as soon as she laid eyes on it on Joe's laptop. It hadn't taken much to persuade him to let her buy them...a lick here and a suck there, but that was a story for later. She kept her makeup simple but striking with nude colors and lipstick, only adding a little blush to her cheeks and a speckle of gold to her eyelids for some drama. Her hair was rolled up and tucked at the nape of her neck. Yeah, she liked how she looked very much. Nothing outlandish or too far from her comfort zone, or Joe's. They may have been separated but she wanted him to recognize her when she walked down the aisle.
"You look so beautiful." Pam appeared behind her, and the mother of two smiled nervously at her best friend and chief bridesmaid. The mother of one looked just as magnificent in her one-shoulder purple chiffon gown. The door to the bedroom stood ajar, and Sasha could see the rest of the ladies outside. Joe's mother, Patricia and his sister Alma were standing together in a corner, both looking lovely in their gold and navy blue dresses respectively. Amber, Trinity and Angelia, all wearing lilac bridesmaid dresses, were carefully trailing Imani as she tottered around, the seventeen-month old adorable in her little white dress and matching white headband. Mia looked so gorgeous in her gold gown, which closely matched the design of her mother's. Sasha was surrounded by beautiful women on the morning of her wedding and she had no complaints.
"You nervous?" Pam asked.
"I wasn't at first, but then I put this dress on and that all changed. This damn waist trainer won't let me breathe." She wiggled in the dress, touching her sides.
Pam grinned and gently patted Sasha's arm. She knew first-hand how her friend felt. "Don't worry babe. You'll be fine," she assured her. "If it makes you feel any better, Joe's feeling the exact same way."
The mention of her very-soon-to-be husband sprouted a school of butterflies in her belly. Today was the first time all week that they would be seeing each other, having been kept out of each other's sight as per the common nuptial tradition. Every second spent away from him was agonizing but on the bright side, the next time they met, they would be moments away from finally becoming husband and wife.
There was a knock on the door, and Sika poked his head in, smiling widely at the two women. "Ladies. Pardon the interruption."
"Manuia le taeao, tama." Good morning, Dad. She'd been actively learning Samoan, and it never got old seeing Sika's face light up when she spoke in his mother tongue. "Is everything okay?" She looked at him expectantly. He was supposed to be helping out with Joe and like his son, she'd barely seen him all week.
"Everything is fine. I've been sent here by the groom to give this to you." Hobbling into the bedroom, he handed Sasha a wrapped box with a card attached to it. "It's almost time for you to start heading out," he said.
"Are the boys gone already?" Sasha asked.
"Not yet, but most of the guests on their way to the church. Don't tell him I told you, but your soon-to-be husband is a bit of a wreck. I think that will all change once he sees you." He took Sasha's hand and held her at arm's length, his gaze soft and approving. "You're going to take his breath away."
His touching words warmed the cockles of her heart. "Fa'afetai. Thank you, Sir. He took mine away a long time ago. I gave Patricia his present earlier this morning."
"I know. And speaking of presents, I almost forgot to thank you for the hearty breakfast you had delivered to our suites this morning," Sika smiled, referring to himself and the groomsmen, all of whom stayed one floor below Sasha and the rest of the bridal train at the hotel for the weekend.
"Well, my boys gotta eat." Sasha grinned and kissed his cheek. "Tell Joe I'll be at the church in a few minutes. I'll be the one in ivory and lace."
Sika left, and Sasha walked closer to the window to open the gift. Joe really did enjoy spoiling her. As if flying all their loved ones out to Pensacola for their wedding wasn't enough, he'd given her little gifts every day this week, including these last three days they spent apart. On the envelope of the card, she recognized his handwriting.
Open the box first, then read the note.
Giggling at her bossy man, Sasha unwrapped the white paper and revealed a small navy blue box. Inside, nestled in the satin, was a pair of pear-shaped diamond earrings, with teardrop sapphires dangling in the center.
Wow. Leaning against the wall, she opened the card to read it.
Ku'u nani,
As you read this, you are hours away from becoming my wife. Words cannot express how honored I am that you are mine. I can't wait to see you, and I can't wait to finally become your husband.
I love you Sasha, with everything that I am.
- Joe
Reading the note over Sasha's shoulder, Pam smiled, then took the box from her. "Come on. Let's put these on." She helped her put on the new earrings, observing Sasha's suddenly quiet demeanor as she stared out the window. "You alright?" she prodded.
Her voice seemed to do the trick, as the bride blinked rapidly and gave a quick shake of her head, snapping out of her trance. "I'm fine. I just..." Inhaling a shaky breath, she turned to Pam, her eyes glistening. "Pamela, tell me this isn't a dream," she pleaded, clutching the other woman's hand in both of hers. "Tell me the last three years were real...that I'm not gonna wake up and discover it was all in my head."
Holding up Sasha's hand where her diamond engagement ring rested, another band soon to join it, Pam's smile was gentle and confident. "It ain't in your head, baby. This is very real. You're about to marry the man you've always dreamed of, the man you've always deserved. And you're gonna spend the rest of your life with him and your kids and that big-ass house y'all about to move into. And you two will stay happy and healthy and hopefully make some pretty, curly-haired Samoan babies for Imani to play with." She reached out to adjust Sasha's train. "And you better make 'em quick; that boy got great hair."
Laughing at the comment, Sasha looked at her friend, emotion brimming inside her. "We did good, Pam-Pam. You and me."
At those words, Pam ceased her preening to meet her friend's eyes, her smile watery. "We did, Sash. Against all odds. I'm so proud of us. Our mamas would be so proud."
Her voice was thick with tears, and Sasha put her arms around her in a big, warm hug. She owed Pam so much; the girl she struck a bond with in the seventh grade all those years ago thanks to their obsession with Janet Jackson and the desire to make life better for their single mothers; the girl that took her in after her mother's death without a second thought; who kept in touch when she was in college and spent every break helping her take care of T.K.; the woman who never left her side through the good and the bad. A lifetime would not be enough to repay her for everything she'd done for her, but Sasha would keep trying.
Pam pulled out of the hug, making a face as she ran a finger underneath her left eye. "Ugh. You made me cry now. Don't make me have to whoop your ass on your wedding day."
"You love me too much to do that," Sasha pointed out matter-of-factly.
"Don't test me. Now let's go before we both ruin our makeup. I paid for that shit, ya know."
Joe hissed and shifted his weight for what felt like the thousand time, tugging the edge of his collar with his finger. "Did someone turn off the air conditioning or what?" he muttered, "It's fuckin' hot."
"Naw, man," Colby chuckled next to him, "That's just your body telling you that you wanna hurl."
Frankly, his best friend had a point, but before his body threatened to make good on the unpleasant foresight, the Samoan curbed himself. As he watched the people stroll into the church and take their seats and felt his nerves ratchet up a little higher, he knew could not afford to humiliate himself and subsequently ruin this day. His and Sasha's wedding day. His wedding day.
Holy shit.
Even after wading through months of preparation, it only just sank in this morning, as he stood in front of the mirror at his parents' place adjusting the jacket of his grey tuxedo, that he was getting married. It seemed like only yesterday that Sasha said yes to his proposal. Following that glorious day, his world revolved around planning their wedding; it was all flowers and food and suits and songs and venues and vows. All of it jumbled up with the usual controlled chaos that he called work. Over the phone, emails and in person, he and Sasha pored over plans and ideas for the ceremony. Each time he returned to Tampa he got dragged to some vendor by Sasha or his mother, sometimes both, and proceeded to be outnumbered in whatever decision was to be made.
The main deliberation had been over the type of ceremony they wanted. Sasha was keen on a Catholic Church wedding. Though he was also Catholic, he preferred a beach wedding, and the debate went on for weeks until Joe's brother Matt came forward with a solution. It turned out they could both have what they wanted thanks to a small church situated on the outskirts of Pensacola, which was a walking distance from Pensacola beach, with a backdrop perfect for post-ceremony photo opportunities. Joe would never forget that visit; the chills that ran down his spine, the expression on Sasha's face when they stood together in front of the altar in the church. And here he stood again, heart pounding and palms sweating, feeling like he would pass out if they didn't get started with the ceremony already.
Truth be told, he didn't need a big wedding. Each of his siblings had done that already. But he went along with it because he wanted Sasha to have the wedding of her dreams. He'd promised to give her everything she wanted within his power and he wasn't about to renege it now. The look on her face at the church was worth it, and it was enough to propel him through the rest of the planning. His sisters, Patricia, Pam and Reggie's wife Cheryl did most of the legwork, from the food to the venue to the number of people attending the reception. Reggie's boys from the Grill, Nick and Wayne, handled security, another important aspect. All Joe had left to do was try on the grey tux Sasha had picked out for him, while listening to Jon and Colby whine about having to wear full-on tuxedos for the occasion. And then there was the dress.
At one point in time Joe feared Sasha was going to literally talk his ear off with endless details of every trip to all these stores and tailors in search of the perfect wedding dress. God forbid he wasn't listening to her either. Then, just when he was sure it would never end...silence. Suddenly, trying to fish out details about the dress was like trying to break into Fort Knox. Sasha, Pam, Mia and Patricia were the only ones who had seen the dress and had it, along with their lips, under lock and key. His mother actually ended up taking the dress to Pensacola with her, that was how much of a closely guarded secret it was. It was bizarre, but it was what it was, he supposed. As long as Sasha got what she wanted, it was fine with him.
What could he say? She was the boss now.
His grey gaze flickered from one groomsman to the other as Jon came up behind Colby, his hands in his dark pants pockets, wearing a smile that made Joe suspicious. "What's with the creepy face Ambrose?" he demanded. Judging from how relaxed everyone else seemed, he was convinced he was the only one feeling as nervous as he did.
"The girls have arrived," Jon said, his smile widening as he looked to the groom. "I just saw Sash, man," he added, letting out a low whistle.
Joe could only imagine. She looked beautiful every day of the week but today felt like it was going to be so much more amplified. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that they'd barely seen each other all week, and hadn't been intimate for even longer. The fact that Jon got to catch a glimpse of her before he did made it a little more grating. "Quit ogling my fiancée," he growled.
"Don't you mean wife?" Colby emphasized, wiggling his eyebrows with a shrug, "I mean, you might as well. It's gonna be official in a mere matter of minutes."
Very true. The thought sent a fresh myriad of thrill and nerves through him. Unwittingly, his fingers brushed over the folded piece of paper in his pocket. Lord knew how much time he had spent trying to perfect the words contained in that paper, writing and re-writing them on plane rides and bus rides and in the privacy of hotel rooms. Words that in reality would never truly suffice to express his feelings for the woman that had his heart. But he would try, with words as well as actions, today and for the rest of his life.
He thought about her to calm his nerves. She'd stayed at the hotel with her bridesmaids while he spent the weekend at his parents' house. Their separation was only for a couple of days but it felt like longer. He ached to see her, to hold her in his arms and kiss her. To finally make her his wife. Raising one hand, he smiled at the sterling silver cufflinks adorning his sleeve. Her wedding gift to him. He'd told her not to get him anything but of course her stubborn little self wouldn't take no for an answer. He recalled the note she'd sent with it, spritzed with her favorite perfume. One whiff and it was like she was right there beside him as he read the note:
My love,
I know you said you didn't want a gift, but I couldn't help myself. I chose this particular gift because it represents an important accessory to a man, and it's a necessary part of a fashionable man's life. You, Joe, have become not just the most important part of my life, but my life itself, and I thank you in advance for the many years of happiness we are about to experience together. I can't believe that in a few short hours you will be truly mine, just as I am yours and always have been.
I love you with all my heart, baby. Thank you for choosing me to share your life with.
Love,
Your wife.
God, he loved that woman so much.
The church was getting full as the ceremony was due to start any time from now. Jon and Colby patted Joe's back and wished him good luck before disappearing to take their places on the train. Joe looked out and saw Elgin and his parents slide into a pew and settle down, baby Imani in his lap. He was glad to see how strong the other man looked after a hellacious year battling cancer. To his right, an injured Josh was being guided into his seat by his wife Gianna and his father Rikishi, little Brandon sitting happily between his parents. At the very front, his own parents and his three siblings were already seated. He caught his mother's watery gaze, noting the tissue in her tight grasp, and had to fight back tears of his own. He made a mental note not to make eye contact with her again for both their sakes. Sika had an arm around her and nodded in encouragement to him, which only clenched his stomach. Willing away his nerves, he took deep breath. Forced himself to relax. And for a moment, he did.
But then the song started, and his insides tightened again.
The congregation rose, anticipation simmering in the air as they all turned to back of the church, cameras and phones in hand, as the Piano Guys' cover of Christina Perri's song 'A Thousand Years' serenaded the church. Mia was first down the aisle, a crown of flowers on her head as she sprinkled rose petals along the aisle. Angie and Colby followed her, then Jon and Amber were behind them, with Jonny and Trin bringing up the rear. As the guys took their positions next to him, he felt his heart beat a little faster. The suspense was unbearable. Where the hell was she?
One step closer...
Right as the song picked up, a figure in white appeared. Joe felt his heart melt into a puddle and the rest of the world blur into oblivion.
Walking down the aisle, accompanied by his best man T.K., was the most mesmerizing sight he had ever laid eyes on. Sasha's gown outlined every curve of her body, the rest of the material flowing backwards into Pam's careful hands. The sleeves were a beautiful work of embroidery that brought an added beauty to the dress. She was wearing the diamond earrings he got her. He had to inhale as he forgot how to breathe, had to swallow back the tears climbing up his throat. She was so beautiful, so fucking flawless. He watched her clutch her bouquet a little more firmly and her gorgeous eyes dart around, smiling in greeting at the people she passed by. Finally, her eyes met his, and he smirked when he saw her full lips part, her gaze raking over him appreciatively.
Hell yeah. Right back at her.
"Who gives this woman to this man?" the priest asked.
"On behalf of myself and my sister Mia, I do." T.K. responded, earning wistful sighs from some of the guests, touched to see the son give away his mother. Kissing Sasha's cheek, T.K. placed her hand in Joe's, nodding at the older man before stepping away from the couple. The moment they touched, Joe felt the hit straight to his gut. Happened every single time. He was drawn to her in ways he never knew possible, and he knew he would never tire of the feeling he got whenever she was near him.
"Baby girl, you look so beautiful," he whispered to her, grinning when she blushed and looked up at him through her long dark lashes.
"You look amazing," she whispered back. The priest had started speaking but all she could do was stare at him, the way he filled that grey suit so well, thoroughly enjoying the way he stared right back in that intense manner he never grew out of. His thumb caressed the back of her hand, the gesture never failing to massage away her nerves. She hadn't seen him, hadn't felt his touch, in days. It felt so good. All of this felt so good, so right.
He couldn't stop looking at her. So beautiful, from her perfectly coiffed hair down to the hemline of her amazing dress. He liked the subtly of her makeup, nothing too wild but she stood out nonetheless. Her cleavage looked terrific, inviting him to bend down and run his tongue along the décolletage. Shaking off the dirty thoughts in his head, he peered behind her, catching sight of the veil pinned to the back of her bun and cascading down behind her. His eyes traced the fluid lines of her waist and hips, lingering on her fantastic-looking ass. It had been a contentious issue when she announced one day that she wanted to shed a few pounds for the wedding. He wasn't thrilled about it and he let her know so. She looked perfect to him already. Two months into her crusade, she asked him for feedback, and laughed when, without saying a word, he looked her over, felt up her backside and nodded his approval. Her ass was still nice and round, so therefore all was right in Joe's world.
"And now, the couple would like to read their vows."
And as easily as his nerves had subsided over the past few minutes, they came rushing back just as quickly. His features paled as reluctantly, he released Sasha's hand to reach back into his pocket and gloss over the lines one final time. Big bad, trash-talking Roman Reigns who had no issue addressing ten thousand WWE fans, was now balking at the thought of speaking in front of fifty loved ones. But it was justified. This was a different kettle of fish. He could shrug off a flub on Raw or Smackdown or even WrestleMania. It would eat at him forever if he messed up even one line of the most important words he would ever say, on the most special day of his life.
So with that in mind, he got his head back in the game, refocused. "Sasha...nani..." He trailed off, locking eyes with her tear-filled ones, "I've told anyone who'll listen how I felt the first time we met. The connection between us was so immediate, so powerful and deep and beyond human description. Fast forward nearly three years and I still feel the exact same way about you. You've become my lover and my friend. You're my mentor, my confidante, my inspiration, the person who lifts me up but still keeps me grounded...Your beauty takes my breath away. Your strength, heart and mind motivate me every day to be a better man. I will love you, respect you, honor you, and remain faithful to you for all eternity, and I will always be there for you and for Mia and Tyson. I'm in love with you. I'm in love with us. And I will never break that bond between us, not if I can help it." Smiling softly, he took her right hand and pressed it to the left side of his chest. "Here lies my heart, Sasha. It belongs to you. It beats for you, and it will beat its final beat for you and only you."
Sasha couldn't resist. She lifted her free hand and placed it on his shaven cheek, gently stroking his face. If her heart swelled any bigger it would burst. Closing her eyes for a moment, refreshing her memory, she swallowed hard and looked up at her man.
"Joe...you are the love of my life. You are the love I never believed existed until you bumped, quite literally, into my life." They both chuckled, then she cleared her throat, looking into his eyes. "You opened my heart and taught me how to trust again; that it's okay to take that dive, that leap of faith that I was always so afraid to take. You've shown me so much of myself that I knew nothing about. You are so special to me. I don't know where I'd be today if it wasn't for you. You told me once before that I saved you, but baby, you saved me."
Her voice started to crack, and she had to pause to rein in her emotions. The look on Joe's face broke her heart, as his grey orbs watered, a tear actually escaping from one. Luckily her thumb was there already, catching it before it could slip further down his cheek. All around them she could hear sniffles, escalating the already emotional moment. Taking one more second to compose herself, she soldiered on. "I love how selflessly you love, how loyal you are to your family and friends. Your strength and passion inspire me. I learn so much from you, and every day I fall deeper in love with you. I promise to never stop loving you, to always believe in you and support your hopes and dreams, to always be there whenever you need me. Whether it's a phone call or FaceTime or even in person...no matter where you are in the world, you call on me and I'll come runnin'. I would move mountains for you if you asked. I will work every day towards being the wife and ally you deserve. Aloha au ia 'oe." She smiled with relief at the huge grin on his face. She guessed she hadn't butchered the Hawaiian phrase too badly. "I love you Leati, deeply and unconditionally, now, forever and beyond."
The love and joy dancing in her eyes, the sincerity in the words she spoke to him, caused goosebumps to sprout on Joe's arms. He wanted so badly to grab her by the waist and kiss her silly. To know she loved him as deeply as he loved her, that the whole world now knew of it, was the most gratifying sensation. There was more depth now, more strength to their bond that would never be broken.
"Could I have the rings?" the priest asked. T.K. stepped up, handing a small box to him. Two white-gold wedding bands lay inside, each designed intricately around the circumference and engraved on the inside with the other's name. The priest gave the smaller ring to Joe and the bigger one to Sasha, and the Samoan took her hand, his gaze unwavering as he sealed his vow to her.
"In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, I Joseph, give you, Sasha, this ring as a symbol of my unending love and devotion to you. With this ring, I pledge to you all that I have and all that I am, till the end of my days." His voice shook towards the end, as he pushed the wedding band onto her small finger, on top of her engagement ring. Sasha repeated the promise as she slid Joe's ring through his finger, barely getting the words out as her throat clogged with emotion.
The priest smiled at the couple and looked out into the congregation. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride."
It was the moment both had been itching for. Sasha inched closer to Joe, smiling giddily as he wrapped his arms around her, dipping her a little. Her fingers traced the nape of his neck, and she heard the low groan escape him as he leaned down and swept his lips over hers. She kissed him back heartily, a thrill rushing up her spine as he held her tightly. Neither heard the loud applause nor saw the standing ovation from everyone in attendance, too wrapped up in their loving embrace.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Anoa'i!"
Following a half-hour of post-ceremony photos at the nearby beach, the party finally made its way over to the reception. They were back at the country club where Joe's parents had their anniversary party. Once again, Cassie had hit a home run. A beautiful lavender theme was picked for the ballroom, tastefully strewn around the ceiling and on the seats and the tables scattered around the enormous room. The lights were tinged in lavender as well. Large bouquets of roses with touches of lavender were placed in the center of each table, and lavender was draped across the entire length of the wedding top table.
"Have I told you how hot you look right now?"
Settled in the couple's comfy personalized sofa, Sasha took a sip of champagne and grinned up at Joe. "Yes, baby. About a dozen times at the beach." It was one of the most romantic experiences of her life. Surrounded by sand, sea and family, they couldn't stop kissing and touching and whispering sweet nothings in each other's ears the entire photoshoot. The scenic beach setting made it more amorous and special, and Sasha had no doubt the pictures would come out beautifully. It was a great decision choosing the church by the beach.
"Well, I'ma say it again. Damn, girl," Joe said, running one massive hand along her crossed thigh as he gazed longingly at her.
"I knew you'd like the dress the moment I tried it on."
"You were right. You look great all the time but...wow." He leaned closer to her to so she could hear him above the music and the clattering of cutlery. "I couldn't stop staring at your tits during the ceremony," he whispered. "I mean, they were just out there, like pow! Calling my name..."
Sasha laughed at him blatantly staring down her cleavage. "Behave. People are watching," she prompted him, glancing around at all the guests spread out before them, most occupied with their food. The ballroom was full now, as other guests had arrived; Sasha's co-workers, employees and even customers from Reggie's Bar & Grill, most of the WWE locker room and dozens of Joe's family members.
Raising his champagne to his lips, Joe went on. "I had plans to drag you off right after the service and have my wicked way with you, ya know," he said. "I woulda taken you right there in the back of the church, locked us up in a confessional booth or somethin'."
Her mouth fell open in a gasp, incredulous. "Joe!"
"You can't blame me, baby girl. That's what looking at your beautiful body does to me." His hand drifted further up her thigh.
Blushing deeply, Sasha caught his wandering hand and turned her head to the side so she could whisper in his ear. "Easy, big boy. We got each other all to ourselves this week."
"Trust me, I'm looking forward to it." His voice got even lower, huskier. "I can't wait to get my hands on you, baby. Best believe I'ma lick every inch of your skin, fuck you nice and slow with my tongue and then with my dick..." Taking advantage of his face shielded from the public, he nipped her earlobe, smirking when her breath hitched. He leaned back and calmly sipped some more champagne. "Yeah, that's right. You better get ready."
Beside Joe, T.K. rose to his feet and retrieved the microphone from the reception's MC. He tapped the microphone long enough to get everyone's attention, and then cleared his throat. "Forgive my nervousness, I've never cut a promo in front of this many people before," he announced, to ripples of laughter from the guests. "Family, friends, relatives, and guests, good afternoon. For those of you who do not know me, my name's T.K., the bride's beloved son and the groom's best man. On their behalf, I would like to welcome you all to this wonderful reception. I would also like to express my gratitude to you all for being here. I know it means a lot to my mom and to Joe that you found the time to be here to share this joyous occasion as they embark on a new journey in their lives.
"My mother is the most incredible woman in the world. She sacrificed so much for me and my sister, breaking her back to make sure there was food on the table and a roof over our heads. As Joe can attest to, I'm very protective of her, but I only want the best for her, at life and at love, just like any other child would want for their parent and vice versa. And now, she has the best in Joe." He cast his gaze to his mother, both pairs of eyes shining with tears. "Mama, I am so happy for you. You deserve to have this chance at love because you're the best mom ever. You have always been there for me, always supported me through the good and bad times, and I appreciate everything you've ever done for me. To see the smile on your face today is the best feeling a son could ever have.
"And to Joe." He smiled at the Samoan. "I've gotten to know you over the last few years. You've gone from being my idol to becoming my mentor, my friend and my big brother. Thank you for loving my mother, for showing her she can and should be loved the way she truly deserves to be. All I ask is that you take good care of her. Love her as deeply as she loves you, and please don't give up on each other. I pray that your love remains strong so that no matter how difficult things get you guys will find a way to work it out, like you always have."
A round of applause echoed around the room. For what felt like the thousandth time today, Sasha wiped her eyes, and she blew a kiss to T.K., receiving a grin in return. Her beautiful, beautiful boy. She was so proud of him and of the young man he had become.
"That being said, I'd like everyone to join me and raise your glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. Joe Anoa'i. I love you both, and I wish you all the love and happiness in the world."
The sound of scraping chairs ensued as the entire room rose to their feet, raising their glasses along with T.K. to toast the couple. Both bride and groom beamed from ear to ear, his arm wrapped around her shoulders and her hand on his knee. She grinned at him, giggling softly when he lowered his lips to hers in a quick kiss.
The upbeat song being played by the DJ faded away to a much slower affair. The MC spoke again. "We now invite our couple of the day to the dance floor; it's time for your first dance."
Sasha rose from her seat, and she glanced to her left to see Pam smiling slyly at her. "This is where I remind you there's no bumpin' and grindin' in first dances," she said, her eyes twinkling.
"Shut up," Sasha laughed, her cheeks warming as she allowed Joe to lead her to the dance floor to a round of applause. He raised their joined hands over her head, and she rotated in a graceful twirl before gliding back to him. Their fingers rested together over his heart. She laid her head on his chest, sighing deeply as they began slowly swaying along to the ballad.
From this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on
It would have been inaccurate to say they chose the classic Shania song; if anything, the song picked them. It was the morning of the Survivor Series pay-per-view a few months back, and the couple was cuddling in bed in their hotel room, forced to listen to Ambrose's country playlist on Spotify while he showered. The song then came on, catching their attention, and one could hear a pin drop as they listened attentively to every word. As the song came to an end, they turned to each other, raising their arms to show off identical goosebumps. The song was perfect in every way, and Sasha felt it now; the shiver dancing down her spine as the world began to fade away, until there was no one but the man holding her.
From this moment I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love I give my last breath
From this moment on
A calm lull ebbed through Joe as he rotated with Sasha in the middle of the dance floor. All of his attention was on her, her body curled into his, her head on his shoulder, his hand splayed over the lace covering her lower back holding her close. He dipped his nose into her hair and inhaled deeply, absorbing the familiar coconut scent, absorbing her. He shifted when her head tilted up, and his insides swooped at her gentle, content smile.
"I love you," she mouthed.
His gaze softened. A verbal response would not suffice. He lowered his face to hers, pressed his lips to the tip of her nose and then her lips.
I give my hand to you with all my heart
I can't wait to live my life with you I can't wait to start
You and I will never be apart
My dreams came true because of you
He felt Sasha melt when he kissed her. Her arms shifted to wind around his thick neck, her tongue touching his lips so she could deepen the kiss. He complied happily, sliding his hand further up her back to hold her against him. He was drugged by her sweet lips, intoxicated by her sensational kisses. He could do this all day, he really could. Luckily, he would get to do this forever.
From this moment, as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn't give
From this moment on
Through the haze of the intimate moment, something clicked in Sasha's brain, reminding her that they were indeed not alone. She managed to break the kiss, breathless but aching for more. The song continued to swell around them and she looked over to the top table. Patricia was a mess, dabbing a tissue over her eyes as she leaned against Sika. T.K. had his arm around Angie, who swayed to the tempo of the song, a dreamy look on her face. Colby and Jon raised their glasses. Mia was grinning from ear to ear. But it was Pam's expression that wrenched Sasha's heart. Tears flowed openly down the chief bridesmaid's cheeks as she blew a kiss to her best friend, nodding her endorsement. Sasha glanced back up and Joe, returning his soft, knowing smile, her eyelids fluttering shut when he brushed his lips against her forehead.
You're the reason I believe in love
And you're the answer to my prayers from up above
All we need is just the two of us
My dreams came true because of you
The song soon faded into another round of wild clapping from the guests. But Joe and Sasha had tuned out the rest of the world, still wrapped around each other, looking into each other's eyes.
"I love you," said Sasha, her voice breaking.
"I love you too," Joe whispered back, pecking her lips.
"Alright you two!" Colby barged between the couple, throwing an arm around each of them. "Enough with the mushy stuff; let's dance!"
From then on, the reception was a full-on party, the music pumping and the drinks flowing. Instead of a wedding cake, Cassie presented a cake buffet of specialty flavors, and the novel idea went down a storm. The bouquet toss ended with Sasha's colleague Amber beating out all the other single ladies. Joe had insisted on doing a garter toss, and Sasha almost liquefied with both lust and embarrassment when he slowly slid the garter off her right leg with his teeth, making eye contact with her the whole time. She didn't dare look into the probably mortified faces of T.K. and Patricia. She knew though, that Pam was euphoric. Joe tossed the garter out, which was caught inadvertently by Cesaro. The dancing and merrymaking went on late into the evening, capping off what turned out to be a memorable day for everyone.
"I fuckin' hate flying."
"I know."
"I don't know how you do it all the time. It's scary being so high up in the air. You have no control over anything," griped Sasha.
It was the morning after their magical wedding, and they were on their way to their Hawaii honeymoon courtesy of Dwayne's private plane – his wedding gift to them. The couple had a bleary-eyed start to their day; after such a rocking reception, the new bride and groom stumbled into their suite and only managed to undress, crawl into bed and pass out, sleeping for only a few hours before they had to be up for the nine-hour-long flight. Sasha swapped her wedding gown for a more relaxed, loose grey draped dress with braided shoulder straps. Her hair was swept to one side over her shoulder. As usual she looked amazing, but right now she was feeling the complete opposite.
"It's not so bad," Joe tried to placate her, but her tightened grip on his hand gave away her disagreement. "Relax, baby. I'm here."
"Distract me," she said. "Talk to me."
"I can't stop thinking about how awesome you were yesterday. Your vows were beautiful. You looked perfect in your dress." He paused when her fingers clenched his, her face pressed to his shoulder as the plane raced down the runway and lifted off the ground. "Hey, hey, breathe. Deep breath."
Sasha dragged in a shaky breath and let it out.
"Again." Rubbing her arm up and down, he kissed her hair. "I'm right here nani.I got you, just breathe."
Despite her predicament, she really loved him at this moment. His voice was calming her and as the plane gained altitude and evened out, so did her heart rate.
Joe chuckled, taking it all in in amusement. "You okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"You know, you did say in your vows that no matter where I am in the world you'll come running," he reminded her with a smirk. "You know you're gonna be doing most of it by plane, right?"
"I know," she acknowledged. "But it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make for my husband."
Husband. Wow, that felt so strange to hear, and yet so wonderful. They looked at each other in silence, digesting this new change. "Your husband," Joe repeated, his voice quivering a little as he traced a finger down her bare arm. "My wife."
"Mrs. Sasha Henrietta Anoa'i," she announced, loving the way his eyes brightened. "Has a nice ring to it, huh?"
His lips met her temple once again. "It sounds perfect."
"I agree," Sasha nodded. "So tell me. Fill me in on what we're gonna do in Hawaii."
"There's lots of things we're gonna do. Hang out at the beach, see the sights, go wakeboarding."
"Sounds awesome already. What else?"
"Oh yeah. You're not wearing any clothes on our honeymoon."
Sasha burst out laughing. "Say what?"
"You heard me. You'll be naked twenty-four seven, and I'm gonna fuck you on every surface of our bungalow."
Sasha felt her loins moisten.
"There's this waterfall I first visited when I was a kid," Joe carried on. "I go back there every chance I get whenever I come to the Big Island. The scenery there is super beautiful, you're gonna love it."
"So I've heard."
"Uh huh. We'll hike up into the caves behind the waterfall. The water there is shallow, so we can swim if you want. The rocks are nice and smooth." He curled a lock of her hair in his finger as he stared hungrily at her. "You're gonna ride my dick on those rocks."
Sasha stared right back. "I wanna ride your dick right now." Unbuckling her seatbelt, she flung one leg over his lap and straddled him. His eyebrows rose in surprise but he held onto her waist nonetheless. She gripped his well-groomed face in both hands and kissed him like her life depended on it. She felt his hands run up and down her back before settling on her backside, and she grinded on him, rolling her ass on his growing erection. Joe moaned at the action, and had to pull back to get back his breath, but that only made way for Sasha to find his neck with her mouth. "Damn," he murmured, dazed.
She pulled back up, her grin slow and lazy and sexy. "I kiss good, huh?" she taunted, nibbling his lower lip before pressing her mouth more firmly to his.
Joe fished inside her dress, slipping a hand between her thighs. She groaned into his mouth as he slipped two fingers inside her, gathering her wetness. He gasped as she abruptly broke the kiss, pulled his fingers out of her and pushed them into her mouth, heat flooding through him as he watched her tongue slather over the digits. "Fuck, that's so hot, baby."
Her eyes fluttered shut, her ample chest heaving with need. "It's been so long, baby. I need you."
Four weeks too long. But he was going to rectify that starting now. He reached between them and unbuckled his seatbelt, lifting her easily, his hands planted firmly on her ass. Her legs wrapped automatically around his waist and she clung to him.
"Where are we going?" she murmured.
"Bedroom."
Bedroom? On a plane? Wow. "What's wrong with the chair we were in?" She leaned down and bit his earlobe.
"I ain't givin' the flight attendant a fuckin' show," he growled.
"Oh."
He carried her to the rear of the plane and through a door into a small room with a double bed, decked with inviting linens and soft fluffy pillows in shades of gold and green. Joe brought Sasha closer to the bed and set her down, staring lovingly at his beautiful new wife.
"I've never had sex on a plane before," he blurted, his cheeks flushing a faint pink that she found adorable.
She grinned widely at his out-of-the-blue confession. "Me neither."
Closing the gap between their mouths once more, he kissed her again. "We were too tired last night, so this morning, in this bed, I'm gonna make sweet love to you. I'm gonna fuck the shit outta you. I'm gonna lick you and touch you and make you feel so good you can't think straight, and after we come I'm gonna hold you and kiss you and caress you. You're my wife, Sasha, and you need to know how happy I am that I get to make love to you for the rest of my life."
Ho. Ly. Shit. Sasha was seconds away from melting into nothingness. Her breathing was heavier by the time he finished speaking. She ran her fingers lightly through his dark hair, loosening the knot at the nape of his neck so the tresses tumbled down his back. She gazed into his grey eyes and couldn't help but wonder what she did to deserve this man. "You're so beautiful," she whispered. "You turn me on so much."
He smiled and planted a feather-light kiss on her forehead. "Likewise, baby. Come here," he answered, sitting down on the edge of the bed and pulling her to stand between his legs. "Let me undress you, nani."
She smiled as she stood before him, loving that he was tall enough that even in this position they were practically at eye-level. He started by dragging his palms up her waist, at the sides of her breasts and along her arms. His fingers ghosted over her skin on her shoulders, hooking them through the straps of her dress, sliding them down her frame until the dress floated to the ground in a pool of grey around her. His eyes dilated, pleased to see she was naked save for a teeny, tiny white string protecting her most intimate part, and his dick hardened some more, straining through his pants. He cupped her breasts, scooping each rock-hard nipple in his mouth, and smiled when a little purr escaped her lips. Licking and sucking on each one, his hands glided over her backside, stopping to squeeze the two round mounds of flesh. "This big-ass chocolate booty. All fuckin' mine," he grunted, his dick stirring again at the thought.
Sasha giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I swear you only wifed me for my ass."
He didn't answer, too busy with his exploration, his hands sliding around her thighs and tracing along her sex. Her giggling was gone now, replaced by short, heavy expulsions of breaths, her eyes darkening just like his. She crashed her mouth to his, and Joe palmed the back of her neck, returning the kiss with wanton vigor. She fumbled with his shirt until she pulled it off him and threw it aside, then bent low to lick his left nipple. The action dragged a moan out of him, so she slid her tongue over the other and flicked it until it was hard and he was squirming. Without warning, she shoved him in the chest, laughing at his surprised grunt as he hit the bed back-first. He started to sit up, but Sasha pushed him again. "Stay down," she instructed.
He glared petulantly at her, but didn't move after that.
"Good boy." She knelt in front of him by the bed and unbuckled his belt, pulling off his pants. She did the same to his briefs and heard his breath catch when her hand closed around his dick, and she slashed her tongue over the swollen head. Joe watched her intently as she continued to suck him; not too hard, but enough to get his attention. "Now this is my favorite wedding present," she murmured, her tongue laving the underside of his shaft while her other hand scooped his balls, rolling them back and forth in her palm.
"Shit, that feels so fuckin'-" Joe started to say, but when she bore down on him, taking his entire length down her throat, he forgot everything he wanted to say. Sasha pulled back quickly, saliva trailing from her mouth, breathing hard as she massaged him with her fist, loving the way it hardened in her grip. She wrapped her lips around him again, reveling in the long, loud groan that spilled from his lips. Her eyes found his grey ones; dark with desire, hot and narrowed with pleasure. His mouth hung open, panting, his whole body heaving. She thought it was sexy as hell that she could turn him on like this.
Joe was on cloud nine, literally and figuratively. Christ, she looked damn beautiful, sucking him like that, her mouth sliding up and down his length, her eyes glazed over with passion. He liked watching her play with him, loved the intense heat of her mouth, and when she pressed down one more time, his tip grazing the back of her throat, he thought he was going to explode right then.
Fuck. If he didn't stop her, he would explode. Hard.
Pushing himself up, he grabbed her and dragged her into the bed, all the way up the length of his body until she was sitting on his face. Taken by surprise, Sasha barely had time to recollect herself as Joe ripped her G-string away. She squealed at the lash of his long, wet tongue inside her that followed the smack on her ass. "Fuck, oh fuck!" she rasped, grabbing onto a pillow.
Letting out a low moan, Joe thrust his tongue deep, licking and sucking her with gusto. She tasted incredible, like always. He felt her body arch against him as he flicked his tongue rapidly inside her ass, then back to her pussy, inhaling the sweet aroma of her arousal. Sasha had to bite down on her lip to keep from crying out. Most times she got nervous about sitting on his face, for fear, rather morbidly, of her weight suffocating him while he pleasured her. But Joe had no complaints at all, holding her down on his face and happily eating her out like his favorite dessert. She moaned when he sought out her clit, licking and nipping it with his teeth, then gifted her with more slow, long licks along her wet slit. He was a god with his tongue. So damn talented, he deserved an award. Heady with desire, she began to roll her ass, grinding on his face, and Joe groaned as her taste flooded his mouth. He kept up his ministrations with his tongue, licking her in rhythm with her rolling hips.
The foreplay only made the new bride hungry for the real thing. She crawled back down his body and guided his hardness inside her in impressive quickness. Joe groaned at the wetness that welcomed his dick. He watched her ride him, quick and shallow, fucking him without fully settling over him.
"Don't tease, baby. All the way down," he commanded. "Swallow that dick with your pussy."
She licked her lips in response, and then eased lower down on his erection, her naughty smile dissolving into a groan. "Mmm babe, did you get bigger?" she asked.
"I wish I could say yes. You're definitely tighter. Fuck," he moaned as he felt her expand and then tighten around him. She kept one knee pressed to his side and propped her other leg up on the bed, spreading herself wider for his viewing pleasure. Joe gripped the sheets by his sides and watched his wife rock up and down his dick, her small hands splayed over his broad chest to steady herself, her full, succulent lips parted and panting in ecstasy.
"That's it doll, ride my fuckin' dick like that. Fuck me," he encouraged, watching her tits swaying as she bounced on him. Unable to resist, he covered one in his large hand and wrapped his lips around the other, stimulating her further. His eyes fluttered shut, losing himself in the feel of her pussy working him, the sounds of her groaning sweet melody in his ears. He could feel the rapidly reducing friction between them, and he dragged his attention away from her breast, his dilated eyes landing on the spot where their bodies joined, and he almost passed out. "Fuuuuck baby, you creamin' all over my dick," he panted.
"Fuck yeah, you feel soooo good, Daddy," she whined, holding him down to the bed and rolling her ass desperately against his pelvis, every inch of him deep in her guts. Her milky essence trickled down his length and over his balls, causing him to slide so effortlessly in and out of her that he had to jam a knuckle into his mouth to keep from moaning loud enough for even the pilot to hear. Matters were made worse, or better, in this context, when Sasha shifted into a full crouching position and pistoned her hips, riding him harder. He tossed his head back with a loud moan, his eyes rolling back as she slammed down on his dick repeatedly, pausing now and again to grind on him some more, her walls clenching around his length the whole time.
As both lost themselves in the violent maelstrom of ecstasy, Joe could sense she was close from her raspier, more rapid breathing. He rolled them over, then slid off the bed and dragged her ass to the edge. Pushing her legs down to her chest, he gripped his dick, his wrist flicking up and down the length as he spread the cream she'd left on it, eagerly prepping for her warm depths once more. Sasha wriggled beneath him and moaned, and his dick jumped in his hand, aroused by the sight of her legs bent backwards, opening her to him. He sucked in a breath as he eased himself back into her, doing his damnedest not to completely lose it and fuck her senseless. Planting one leg on the bed, he moved in and out of her, finding his rhythm easily.
"Oh, fuck," Sasha whimpered, her hand closing around his strong thigh as Joe thrust unrelentingly into her tightness. She fixated on his length driving into her from between her widened legs. "Fuck, you killin' this pussy, baby."
"Yeah? Whose pussy is this?" he demanded, twisting his body slightly so he was fucking her at a different angle. "Whose pussy is this, huh?"
Sasha tried to respond, but her thoughts evaporated when he changed angles and pumped his hips harder, plowing balls-deep inside her. She cried out as he began rolling his pelvis, feeling the head of his cock brush her g-spot repeatedly. "Awww shit!"
"Tell me," Joe ordered, his voice huskier as he shoved her legs wider apart. "Who owns this sweet-ass pussy?"
Though she wasn't thinking straight, she managed to answer, "You, big Daddy. This pussy's all yours baby. Keep goin'! Gimme that big dick!"
Joe continued his onslaught, shuddering as her pussy rippled around him, luring him that much closer to euphoria. He took her all in; her bouncing breasts, the ecstasy in her eyes, her voice growing louder as she surrendered to him. He dug deep into her, stretching and stretching her, and Sasha screamed as the heat that had spread through her exploded like wildfire, incinerating every inch of her. She went limp on the bed with a soft groan, exhaling blissfully.
Joe crawled back into the bed, easing her legs down to wrap them around his waist, which he knew would give Sasha considerable relief to her back and legs, then covered her with his torso. His mouth met the hollow of her neck, kissing and suckling her sensitive skin as he kept thrusting into her, deep and hard, but not fast. She cupped the back of his head, her other hand grabbing his ass to pull him in deeper, feeling him gasp into her neck as her fingernails raked his firm ass cheek. She kissed the length of his tattooed shoulder before finding his lips with hot, breathy kisses. How she loved him, and the way he kissed her, the way he filled her, physically as well as emotionally. He was part of her now and always would be, and today was only the beginning of that journey.
Panting hard, Joe plunged resolutely into his wife, each thrust faster and more erratic than the last. His body froze as the orgasm surged through him like electricity. A snarl viciously ripped from between his teeth as he erupted inside her, filling her up with his seed. He managed to look into Sasha's face, and he almost grew hard again at the sight of her licking her lips, her sultry chuckle dripping with complete satisfaction.
"Fuck," he grunted, slumping on top of her, his head dropping onto her chest as he labored to catch his breath. A few moments later, he rolled off of her and lay on his back, and Sasha snuggled against him, her leg locking around his waist like always. She rested her face against his chest, lifting her head just for a second to see him gazing down at her, feeling his large hand running down her back, soothing her.
"You okay?" he asked, his gaze full of concern and lingering traces of lust.
Words couldn't fully explain her thoughts, but she would try. "I'm perfect. What about you baby?"
His eyes danced with contentment, a big smile lighting up his handsome face. "I'm the happiest person walking this earth. The past two days have felt like a dream."
Sasha smiled. "That's what I told Pam yesterday. This feels like a dream. All of this," she said quietly, biting her lip as tears resurfaced.
But of course, her man – her husband – was there to catch them all, brushing them away with his thumb. "Ain't no dream, baby girl," he told her. "This is you and me. Us. Forever."
She didn't know she could cry so much in a mere span of days. She was so relieved and so happy and so in love with this beautiful man. "I love you," she said, her lips pressing his own. "Always and forever."
He leaned down, rubbing his nose across hers, and kissed her in that gentle way that made her swoon. "I love you too, baby girl. Always and forever."
I know it went long, but Jasha deserved this. This was THE single toughest chapter I have EVER written, period, lol. I went to a wedding this weekend though, helped a lot with this chapter.
The song from the first dance is "From This Moment On" by Shania Twain and the Backstreet Boys. That version is so much better IMO. (Well, I'm kinda biased, lol). Take a listen if you want.
The epilogue is upon us. Kindly review.