Chapter 34
Mr. And Mrs. Stetson
Let the wedding bells chime. The day had arrived. Lee and Amanda woke early to pack as they were leaving for Paris the next evening. They wanted to be able to spend tomorrow morning in bed and thoroughly enjoy being husband and wife. As for Amanda, she knew it would be chilly so she elected to bring boots for the special dinners and made certain to pack a couple pairs of comfortable shoes as Lee had told her it was a walking city. He'd booked an evening flight, that would get them into Paris the next morning. .
Joe was going to take the boys for the weekend and would pick them up tomorrow so Dotty could have the house to herself (or Captain Curt). Amanda made a list of all the activities happening for the week she and Lee would be away. "On Monday Jamie has his haircut. He has a picture from a motorcycle magazine in his jacket pocket so you'd better go with him. Tuesday Mr Petrie will be here to fix the doorbell so it doesn't sound like a strangled chicken." She reminded Dotty to hide the sherry from him. "On Wednesday Mr. Yamamoto was coming to spread the grass seed."
"I know, I know, " Dotty replied. "I need to keep the Shepherd's cat away so she doesn't chase her tail. Amanda, don't worry, just go and have a wonderful time. I would say I would love it if you came home with a little surprise but you two have already taken care of that."
"I know, I'm a little embarrassed that I'm pregnant before I get married. Again."
"Are you kidding me?" Dotty said. "With a man who looks like that how could you not be pregnant already. Have you noticed that the women on our street have suddenly taken up jogging or walking their dogs three or four times a day when they see his car out front?" Amanda had actually noticed more women than usual were jogging by their house.
- SMK -
It was 6:00. Kristen, Ryan and Alex arrived early to set up for music as people were arriving. She was a little nervous about singing in front of people again but Alex assured her she was amongst friends. He also recommended they start with an Elton John song that she sang with her mother as it might calm her nerves. Fortunately, it was perfect for Lee and Amanda. The wedding director showed them in and helped them set up in front, to the right of the alter. It was a small venue that could fit no more than 50 people, but she understood why Lee and Amanda liked it so much. It was intimate and charming.
- SMK -
Amanda arrived a short time later with Dotty and went directly to the bride's room. Slipping on the dress she was relieved it fit perfectly. Amanda rubbed her had over her midsection. She was at that stage in her pregnancy where it was hard to discern between pregnancy or a little extra weight around the midsection. However, one thing was evident, the glow.
"Do you think it looks bad?" She asked Dotty standing sideways in front of the full length mirror, feeling a bit self-conscious.
"No," Dotty smiled. "It's charming. You look perfect" Tears were in her eyes. "Oh, Amanda."
"Oh no," Amanda said, "Don't start that, you'll mess up my makeup." She smiled. It was just about 20 minutes from the service and guests were starting to arrive as Dotty helped her pin the hat.
"Mother, I just need to know that you feel comfortable that I'm marrying Lee. I know it seemed quick." Dotty took her hands and looked her in the eyes.
"Amanda," she told her daughter. "I've never seen you more over the moon than you are with Lee. I knew you loved Joe, but it was never like this. Lee is a very sweet man, and the way he tries so hard with the boys. Even Jamie adores him now."
"Thank you , Mother." Amanda hugged her,
Through the walls they could hear the faint sound was what would be a guitar and the voice singing. Amanda smiled. She recognized the Elton John song.
"It's a little bit funny
This feeling inside.."
Amanda smiled lightly and had a far off look in her eyes. Dotty looked at her.
"What is it?" She asked.
"It's Kristen and Alex." Amanda answered "She does have a lovely singing voice, doesn't she?." Dotty listened in and smiled.
"Yes, she does."
Lee had arrived with the boys. He stood in the hallway listening to Kristen singing. He smiled to himself. Yep, they made the right decision.
"She's really good." Jamie whispered. Lee smiled and nodded.
"Yeah, she is. You should tell her later as she gets a little self conscious about it. I think it would make her feel good."
Lee and the boys greeted friends and family as they arrived. Billy with Jeannie, Francine and Leatherneck actually came together which would no doubt cause whispers, Emily arrived and hugged Lee warmly and addressing the boys. Mrs. Marston arrived with the her husband and TP Aquinas was able to attend and shook Lee's hand heartily. As the guest list was small it did not take long for most to be seated. Kristen was finishing up with her last song in the pre-ceremony set. This one was special. She would face the attendees for this one. The arrangement started with her voice alone. :
"When all the clouds darken up the skyway
There's a rainbow highway highway to be found
Leading from your widow pain
Just a step beyond the rain…"
Alex joined on the guitar
"Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
There's a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby…"
Amanda listening from outside the brides's room teared up, and Lee because a little misty-eyed. She nailed it. All the IFF guests smiled and nodded to each other, meanwhile Amanda's family did not understand the significance of the song but enjoyed it nonetheless. It had a deep meaning for the Lee and Amanda so nothing else mattered. Kristen finished the set. The wedding coordinator gave her the signal to start the music for the processional as the Justice of the Peace took his place at the alter, and Alex started the song on his guitar. As planned, when Kristen's vocals started, Lee escorted Dotty by the arm up to her space at the front.
"Wise men say
Only fools rush in
But I can't help
Falling in love with you…"
He kissed her on the cheek and they hugged. Lee turned to Kristen, smiled and nodded. He then walked up and stood at the alter. Phillip and Jamie looking handsome in their suits as they stood on either side when their mother joined them to escort her up the aisle. The birdcage veil partially covering her face gave her a sophisticated flare. She was picturesque in the ivory early 60's style vintage dress with a boat neck collar, sleeves just covering her shoulders, full skirt down to her knees and embellishment along the neckline that glistened in the light. She looked like she stepped right out Breakfast at Tiffany's. Lee actually lost his breath for a moment as he saw her walking toward hm. There were gasps and aaah's as Amanda and the boys made their way up the aisle. As they reached the front Amanda handed Jamie her flowers, and hugged and kissed both of them. They then took their seats next to their grandmother.
Amanda then turned to Lee who stood smiling at her as the music concluded. Kristen and Alex made their way to their seats where Kristen sat next to Ryan.
"You are absolutely stunning," Lee whispered to Amanda. She looked into his eyes and smiled brightly, tears forming.
"Thank you. You look so handsome." She replied.
The Justice of the Peace began the ceremony addressing their family and friends before started the ceremony.
"Do you, Lee, take Amanda to be your wife?" He said
"I do," Lee responded with a soft look in his eyes.
"Do you, Amanda, take Lee to be your husband?'
"I do," her eyes twinkling.
"Join hands," the Justice directed them. Lee and Amanda faced each other, hand in hand. It was like the rest of the room fell away as they spoke their vows to each other. After they finished, the Justice of the Peace called for the rings.
"May I have the rings, please." The Justice instructed. There was some rustling as Phillip stood up and reached into his pocket. He dropped one on the floor with an "oops" as people chuckled.
"Sorry." he said. Lee just grinned and gently put his hand on his shoulder letting Phillip know he was not upset. Rather it was charming. "It's ok." He said, smiling at the young man.
"Now, put this ring on her finger and say these words," the Justice directed Lee. "This ring I give thee."
"This ring I give thee," Lee said while putting the ring on her finger..
"In token and pledge."
"In token and pledge."
"Of my constant faith and devotion."
"Of my constant faith and devotion," Lee said looking deep into Amanda's eyes.
"Now give him your ring," the Justice directed Amanda.
"Say this ring I give thee."
"This ring I give thee." Amanda said as she put the ring on Lee's finger and looked up into his hazel eyes which looked almost green today.
"In token and pledge."
"In token and pledge."
"Of my constant faith and devotion."
"Of my constant faith and devotion." Amanda said with a giddy school girl look on her face.
"By the authority vested in me by the statutes of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Lee and Amanda, I am pleased to pronounce you husband and wife."
Amanda and Lee looked at each other with huge smiles.
Lee lifted Amanda's veil and pulled her in for a deep, lingering kiss. The whole room erupted in joyous applause. After the long kiss, they looked at each other.
"We did it!" Amanda said. "We really did it. We're married."
"Yes we are," Lee said as he went in for another kiss. Afterward they turned to their family and friends. They hugged Dotty and the boys. Afterward everyone in the room came over the offer their congratulations. They did not want a recessional up the aisle, but simply to gather with their family and friends and walk out together.
"To Mr. And Mrs. Stetson!" Billy shouted as the room burst out in cheers.
- SMK -
As Phillip so eloquently put it, "It was time to party!" The guests arrived at the Crystal Springs Inn following the ceremony. The small event room featured large windows looking out onto the trees of the meticulously landscaped property. The tables were covered with white linen tablecloths, silver and a spray of white and pink flowers. Understated and elegant.
The photographer was taking photos of Amanda, Lee and their family at the chapel. Meanwhile the guests flowed into the reception space where some light hors d'oeuvres and champagne were being served. Billy introduced Jeannie to Kristen, Ryan, Alex, Emily, Beamon and Leatherneck. A few people knew Ryan from the CIA but had no idea he and Kristen had been dating. The IFF folks sat at a couple tables next to each other, all talking, laughing and enjoying each other's company.
A few minutes later, Dotty and the boys entered and took their place at the head table after Dotty stopped to talk to her sisters, hugging them in all the excitement. The DJ had been playing some soft background music as the guests made their way in and took their seats. He changed the music to the wedding reecessional and addressed the room,
"Ladies sand gentleman, may I be the first to introduce you to Mr. And Mrs. Lee and Amanda Stetson!" Everyone stood and cheered as Lee and Amanda entered the room. The boys hooted loudly and hugged their mom and new step dad.
"You're stuck with us now!" Phillips said loudly. Lee laughed.
"Or you're stuck with me!" He jokingly responded to the boys.
"That's so incredible," Kristen said to the others at the IFF tables. "Look how much Phillip and Jamie love him."
"I'm in shock," Francine said. "It's like a Twilight Zone episode. I hope he knows what he's in for."
"I think he does," Kristen said. "I've not known him as long as you, but have you ever seen him this happy?"
"Honestly," Leatherneck said. "Never! Amanda has totally knocked sense into him."
"I think you're right," Billy said. "He's never been more content. Thank God."
Francine seemed sad. "I have to admit I do miss the old Lee a bit," she said. "But I'm happy for him. I think he finally found what he's been looking for." She had a nostalgic look in her eyes, as her good friend had moved on. She was happy for him, but things would never be the same again. Taking a deep breath and changing the subject. "But if we want to talk about transformation? Look at Amanda."
"She's drop dead gorgeous," Kristen said. "She looks like she stepped out of right out of a vintage fashion magazine. I'm so happy we were there when she found the dress."
"I love how openly affectionate they are with each other." Mrs. Marston commented. "We never get to see them like this."
"That is what true love looks like," Emily said wistfully.
Amanda looked around the room at the people who were their closest friends and family. She had a bit of a far off look in her eyes.
"You okay?' Lee said.
"Better than okay." She said. "I just never thought we'd actually get here. I'm married to an incredibly handsome, kind, caring man and I get to kiss him without looking over my shoulder.." She leaned up and Lee rewarded her with a deep, loving kiss.
"And I have a ravishing, intelligent, loving wife who is carrying my baby" Lee said with a broad smile, "Really." Lee said looking at her up and down. "You literally took my breath away!" Amanda blushed.
They made their way over the Colonel who had been sitting with Aunt Lillian and Aunt Edna and several of Amanda's cousins. They greeted everyone and continued to make their way around the room.
"Who's the guy with Kristen?" Amanda asked Lee.
"I think that may be Cute CIA Guy." He whispered back to her.
"Who?" Amanda asked.
"She mentioned a couple months ago she had a date with 'Cute CIA Guy' I'm guessing that's him. She mentioned to Alex his name was Ryan."
"Oh yeah?" Amanda said. "We need to meet him."
"Make certain he's good enough for her?" Lee laughed. They made their way around to the IFF people. They were all hugging and laughing. Amanda turned to Kristen and Alex, with tears in here eyes.
"That was simply beautiful. Having you sing with Alex made it so personal. Thank you." Amanda told them. Kristen broke out tears herself, hugging her friend.
"When Lee and I were on assignment in California he told me all about your history, " Kristen said, smiling brightly. "With a story like that, I wanted to be a part of it; I'm just happy you liked it." Overhearing, Lee turned to them.
"We loved it," he said. Kristen hugged Lee then turned to the man with her.
"This is Ryan Butler," she introduced him. He was mid to late twenties, tall, dark-haired with brown eyes.
"Congratulations to you both." He shook both their hands.
"Let me guess," Lee said, "CIA?"
"That's right," Ryan said, a little perplexed.
"I recall seeing you at a certain 'event' Mike's Bar in DC." Lee said using air quotes.
"Yeah, that was our first unofficial meeting. We ran into each other at a bar in Georgetown a couple weeks later. Luckiest day of my life." He smiled
"Cute CIA guy is right," Amanda whispered in Kristen's ear.
"I know, isn't he?" Kristen laughed with her.
As dinner was being served, everyone took their seats and enjoyed the meal with soft jazz music playing. As dinner wrapped up, Lee and Amanda stood to address their guests.
"We want to thank everyone for coming to what, up until now," Lee said, "has been the best day of my life now that this beautiful woman has become my wife. We tried to keep our relationship quiet, however, we learned from Kristen in her not so subtle way, that apparently no one was fooled."
"Nope!" Leatherneck called out. "We were all onto you two, Ace." Everyone laughed.
"Anyway, this amazing woman blew into my life three and a half years ago and turned it upside down. However, everything righted itself and fell into place exactly as it should be. What I feared the most, family life, is what saved me. I love you, Amanda." She hugged him and they shared a deep kiss while the room awed and cheered. Lee continued.
"Phillip and Jamie, I know I am only your stepfather, but as far as I am concerned, you are not my stepsons, just my sons. I love you guys." The boys got up to hug them. Afterward, Amanda took the mic.
"I keep telling him he can't keep doing these things to a pregnant woman," she laughed while drying her eyes, realizing she just let the proverbial cat out of the bag. She placed her hand on her belly. "Yes, for those of you who have not figured it out, we are expecting." The room filled with cheers as everyone stood to applaud them. She continued. "About four and a half years ago, I became divorced. I was sad, lost, frightened and my life had little direction. Suddenly, this man here came quite literally bursting into my life. At first, we weren't certain about each other. Then, over time we became friends. Then, he became my best friend. Then, something miraculous happened. We fell in love. Now I am so lucky to be your wife." She cried, and looking around the room it was hard to find a dry eye anywhere.
Lee and Amanda came in for a long, romantic kiss. Emily wrapped her glass and stood up.
"This story may seem a bit strange, so please forgive me. The sea anemone has stinging tentacles that drive away anyone or anything who tries to get near it. Imagine that very lonely existence when don't allow anyone to get close to you. However, the Anemonefish, otherwise known as the clownfish has a mucus coating that makes it immune to the anemone's sting. For that reason, the clownfish has the ability to get close and use the anemone for protection from predators. However, this is a symbiotic relationship because the clownfish provides nutrients to the anemone and drives off those that might want to attack it. Together they feed, nourish and protect each other. This makes them stronger. So, Lee was alone for years, swaying in the ocean, driving away anyone who tried to become close, until Amanda, his beautiful clownfish came into his life and began to feed and nurture him. Together they formed a bond, and more importantly, found love and comfort in each other's protection. While it is not a pairing anyone would expect, it is perfect, as it is just as life intended, May you continue to make each other stronger, in love. To the bride and groom." Lee smiled and Amanda blew a kiss to her friend.
"To the bride and groom!" The room exploded in cheers. As the toasts come to a conclusion, the DJ started the music.
"We'd like to welcome the newly married Mr. And Mrs. Stetson to the dance floor," He played The Way You Look Tonight as Lee pulled Amanda in and wrapped her up in his arms as they danced. He whispered in her ear.
"The adventure begins,"
"Who would have thought three and a half years ago that we would dancing at our wedding?" Amanda said..
"Never." He responded. "I treated you so horribly in the beginning. I am so sorry for that. I thought I was such a hot shot agent living some exciting life."
"I was so dumbfounded by you living that jet-setting life having no clue about how normal people existed," Amanda smiled. "But, yes, you were kind of an ass in the beginning."
"Hey," Lee looked shocked. "I never said ass." Amanda raised an eyebrow. "Ok, I was kind of an ass." Amanda laughed and kissed him.
"But, you do have a nice ass, I gotta give you that." Amanda teased.
"So, do you, Mrs. Stetson." He whispered in her ear, giving her shivers and her rear end a little squeeze, eliciting whistles from around the room .
"Call me that again,: Amanda smiled at him.
"Mrs. Stetson," He whispered in his ear. Amanda squealed.
"You've made me so happy," she said. "And might I say you look especially dashing this evening."
"You look absolutely flawless tonight." Lee said. "That dress is amazing."
"Thank you. I actually found it with Francine and Kristen. We walked by a vintage shop and there it was. Although if feel a little pudgy with this little belly."
"Are you kidding?" Lee said. "That's our baby, and you are glowing right now. I honestly think you've never looked more beautiful."
"Very good," Amanda said. "You're already doing the husband thing really well." They laughed and kissed again as they danced across the floor.
As the music transitioned, the DJ called for other couples to join them on the dance floor. Lee walked over to Dotty to ask her to dance.
"Can I have this dance?" He asked in his charming way. "Dotty smiled broadly and took his hand. "Thank you for welcoming me into your home and family so warmly, " Lee told Dotty.
"Lee, you have been a breath of fresh air for this family. Not just for Amanda, but for the boys as well. Your words during that toast really touched my heart. You relate to them in a way their father doesn't. Don't get me wrong, Joe is a good father and guides them well, but he doesn't listen to them like you do."
"Thank you," Lee responded. "I was really uneasy at first, you know, getting to know them. But they are two really great kids. You have a lot to do with that. Especially given that our jobs can have really long hours."
"This is going to get really interesting when this new little bundle arrives." Dotty said.
"You're right. I have no idea what to do with a baby, so if you don't mind, I could really use help from both you and Amanda."
"Of course I will. That is my new grand baby, after all."
At the same time, Philip got up to take his mom's hand to dance. "You're next," Amanda called to Jamie. Billy and Jeannie, Francine danced with Colonel Clayton to avoid all the chatter if she danced with Leatherneck, and Ryan took Kristen's hand to guide her to the dance floor as well. Jamie looked a little upset that Kristen had brought a date with her.
"Hey," She told Ryan as they danced, "I want to introduce you to Phillip and Jamie after we dance. They're great kids, and I think Jamie's a little sad I brought you. I think I owe him the next dance."
"I don't know," Ryan teased, "I think he's kind of a player." She laughed. Ryan was not only cute, he was kind and thoughtful, and a real kick ass CIA Analyst from what she'd heard. She never thought she'd be dating anyone this soon after moving to D.C., but they fit so well together. After they had danced the couple songs, allowing the boys to dance with their mother, she brought Ryan over to meet Jamie and Phillip.
"Hey guys," Kristen said, "I want to introduce you to Ryan."
"Hi," Ryan said. "It's good to meet you two. Kristen really likes hanging out with you."
"So," Phillip said, sizing up Ryan, "are you her boyfriend?" Ryan looked down and back at Kristen like he did not know how to answer. She smiled.
"Yes," Kristen said. "He's my boyfriend. But I still love you two! " She turned to Jamie, "So, dance with me?"
"Yeah, okay." Jamie looked at little unsure, looking back at Ryan.
"Ok by me," Ryan said, "but I'm watching you, Romeo." Jamie laughed as they took the floor.
"So," Phillip said, "how long have you been dating? You are nice to her, right?" Ryan loved how Phillip and Jamie seemed to be looking out for Kristen, as if she even needed it.
Amanda noticed how happy Jamie looked dancing with Kristen and how Phillip looked like he was sizing up Ryan. She needed to save him.
"Hi, Ryan," Amanda said. "Come dance with me."
"Thanks," Ryan laughed, "Your son should be in charge of interrogations."
"Well," she said. "They are crazy about Kristen. But looks like you are too."
"Yes, I am" Ryan responded. "I was so nervous to ask her out. She is so impressive at work, she was a bit intimidating, but outside she has this bubbly presence that makes everyone smile. I'm so happy I met her." They both laughed when Phillip came over to cut in to Jamie's dance with Kristen.
When the DJ picked up the tempo, most everyone joined in. When he played Thriller, Kristen was joined by Ryan, Phillip, Jamie and a few others in trying to recreate the dance from the music video which had everyone erupting in laughter. She pulled in Dotty and Curt, which was hilarious. After a few seconds, Dotty and Curt danced the samba instead, which seemed to crank up the mood even more. People came up to Amanda and Lee to also congratulate them on the baby. Leatherneck gave Lee a hard time, as expected and Amanda's Aunts could not resist rubbing her belly. T.P. came up to Lee, "I'm so happy for you, my boy. Amanda truly is the best thing that ever happened to and I'm so congratulations on your baby."
The rest of the night included cutting the cake, more dancing and Amanda throwing the bouquet. As it came near Kristen and Francine, they both ducked it as it landed on the ground before one of Amanda's cousins snatched it up..
"Sorry, not ready for that yet." Kristen whispered to Francine.
"You and me both."
It was a perfect evening. As it was winding down, Amanda and Lee thanked all of their guests, many of whom, including Kristen, Alex, Ryan, Francine, and Leatherneck headed over to the lobby bar to keep the party going.
As Lee and Amanda were heading off to their room, Kristen yelled out across the lobby,
"Have fun, you two!" Alex followed suit and shouted.
"Wear him out, Amanda!" The whole crowd cheered and whistled as Lee and Amanda walked to the elevator, both a little red-faced. Amanda turned and nodded with a huge smile, sending the whole crowed whooping again. "Oh, that was fun," she said to Lee.
"No, the fun starts now." Lee winked at his bride as he picked her up, setting the group off even more.
