Thank you for the reviews. You all are wonderful. It's amazing to wake up and see these lovely reviews.
I was supposed to have these updates 2 weeks ago but my dang migraines got in the way. I missed Mother's day and my grandson's proposal to his girlfriend of 4 years. That's how sick I was. Got new meds now so hopefully all will be better. I surely do not want an implant or botox on my forehead to keep them away.
Anyway here is what you all have been waiting for the Destination Wedding. You all will find out soon enough where they are. A little suspense is good for a story.
Hope you enjoy it. Thank you for staying with me and reviewing.
Chapter 16 Destination Wedding and Reminiscing
Alright, we all have been waiting for their destination wedding. You might need a Kleenex when you hear them say their vows.. just a heads up. It took me a while on theses but I wanted them to have their own vows because they are two very special people and I felt like the traditional ones just weren't for them. With that said let's get on with the wedding.
Ana wakes up wrapped in her loves arms and legs. He has one arm around her holding her breast in his hand the other under head. He has his legs wrapped in between hers. She can barely move. She needs the bathroom but doesn't want to wake him up.
She tries to move away from him but he moans and holds her tighter.
"Christian, Christian.. a little louder this time.. Christian move off me please I need to go to the bathroom Boo."
He looks over at her and smiles and kisses her lightly on her mouth.
"Good morning my rose. You are so damn beautiful my soon to be wife."
"Good morning love and you are so damn gorgeous i can't wait to be your wife and you my husband but right now if you don't want a wet bed you have got to let me up."
He kisses her again and slides away from her.
"Hurry back my love."
She uses the bathroom, brushes her teeth and her hair.
She opens the door and looks at him.
"Come on sweet man of mine, let's take a shower. We have a lot to do today."
He almost fell out of bed on his sexy ass when she said that.
"Easy there tiger don't need you getting hurt before we say I do."
"No way that is going to happen love."
He grabs her around the waist and throws her over his shoulder like she is a sack of potatoes.
"Christian dammit put me down."
"As you wish my darlin."
The next thing she knew he was walking in the shower with her. He turned on the water.
"Christian Grey, I am going to kill you. That water is freezing cold, get away from me."
"Hold on a minute it will warm up."
"Well then by all means bring your ass up here and wait for it."
She pushes him in front of her and he squeals like a little girl.
"Doesn't feel so good now does it Jackass?"
"Oh my love it was just a little cold water."
"Yean well then why did you squeal like a little girl my love?"
She looks at him.
"Got nothing to say huh?"
"Alright I will admit it was cold. I am sorry darlin."
He walks over to her and pulls her to him.
"Christian we don't have time for this. We have to eat breakfast and meet Rhonda and Jess in two hours."
"My darlin rose, we have plenty of time and there is always time for me to give you an orgasm. Never think for a minute that there isn't."
"Well we have to be quick or we will be late."
"Annie Rose, you can't rush me making love to you. And a quickie is not what I had in mind for this morning."
"Oh just shower and let's go eat. I am hungry."
"Honey I am hungry too but not for food."
Christian washes her hair massaging her scalp as he runs his fingers through her long tresses. He takes his time running his soapy hands down her next to her breasts as he massages one then the other never touching her nipples. He knows that's what she wants when she arches her body into his hands.
Annie Rose takes his shampoo and washes his hair running her fingers through it and hearing him moan. She continues down his back to his waist over his ass and squeezes it with soapy hands. She turns him around and soaps his chest playing with his nipples pinching one then the other. He leans into her touch.
He runs his hands down her waist to her hips pulling her into him. He puts her body wash on his hands and continues on down her body to where no one has ever touched her but him. He rubs his hand up and down her opening and slides one soapy finger into her as his thumb presses on her clit. He hears her moaning and saying his name.
She runs her hand further down his chest feeling his six pack that is all hers. She soaps her hands again. Kisses the daylights out of him and slides her lips down his chest to his nipples and gently bites on it. She loving soothes it with her tongue. She slides on down his body until she reaches his hard iron cock. She takes him lovingly into her hands running her hands up and down his steel cock. She takes one hand and slowly oh so slowly rubs his balls that are turning purple.
"My god Annie are you trying to kill me darlin?"
"No far from my sweet man. I am loving you."
"Enough of this come on I am going to make love to you on our bed not here in the shower."
He quickly turns off the water and opens the door. He steps first and grabs a towel to wrap around his waist. He leans back in the shower and takes her hand and helps her out so she doesn't fall.
He takes another bath towel from the warming rack and dries his love off and another for her hair.
He looks at her with so much love in his eyes and grabs her and kisses her like his life won't go on without her.
He picks her up bridal style and carries her to their bed and lays her down with him coming down on top of her. Never losing that touch.
"Oh my god Christian I want you my darlin. I need you so much."
"Where do you want me my love? Tell me Annie tell me now?"
"I want you inside of me Christian, make love to me."
"Your wish is my command, my rose."
And he does make love to her so sweetly and gently that she doesn't know where she begins and he ends. They are bound together as lovers for all time.
"Mercy woman I love you so much Annie Rose you are my everything."
"As you are mine my sweet man. Now come on, let's take a quick shower, no messing around, you hear me?"
"Yes love I hear you."
But that doesn't mean I am listening. He says to himself.
Well after he got her good and dirty again they finally got their showers and got dressed for the day.
"Christian my god you are going to kill me."
"No love I am going to love everyday."
They walk downstairs and hear voices.
"Good morning darlings about time you joined us. Oh by the way Rhonda called and said she couldn't get either of you on the phone. She said she will be here at eleven o'clock to go over today's plans."
"Thank you mom. Come on love, let's eat."
"I told you we were going to be late."
"Yeah but you weren't coming any of the three times you came so hard you said you saw stars."
He walks over and kisses her check.
"Yeah well..never mind eat your breakfast Boo."
They all sat around the table talking about their dinners last night.
"I'll tell you what those steaks, lobster and all the seafood were very delicious."
"We had all you can eat at an Oyster bar. My god it was out of this world. They catered to every wish Christian asked them for."
"Really do tell love?"
"What he means is I asked if they could set up a food bar in the private dining room we had. That way we wouldn't have to walk back and forth to the Oyster bar out front. I swear Annie Rose, those women looked like they hadn't seen a man in months and the funny thing about it was their men were sitting right beside them or in front of them."
"Yes I can imagine how you all looked walking in there. I would have been swooning over the auburn haired gray eyed devil myself. Lawd have mercy on my soul."
She says fanning herself and giggling.
"Well what can you say there were eleven of us handsome men walking in and I don't know how many bodyguards but we are all very attractive men. Anyway it was better to have a bar set up in the dining room. cause when we finally left the women were staring again. It was time to get out of there."
"No doubt it was Elliot."
"Where did you all eat?"
"Island Paradise and it was so good we will have to go there before we go home Boo."
"Okay sounds like a good place to try. Hey Elliot where did you put the cakes we brought home last night?"
"They are in the kitchen on the counter. Chef Cain said they didn't need to be in the fridge. He told me that when he handed them to me and Ray."
"Okay well all I can say is there better be some when we get back from town bro."
"Oh good lord bro I am not going to eat them."
"You better not, especially that chocolate cake."
"Chill bro I won't touch it. Carol and I are going to enjoy the day in the spa and the pool relaxing."
"Sounds like a good idea. What do you say Boo to coming back and doing just that?"
"Sounds good to me."
"Have y'all met our chef and his staff?"
"We met some of his staff but not him. He was preparing the dinner menu. That is what Wendy told us. She said we would meet Chef Sambora tonight."
"Okay well we haven't met him either. I met Wendy. She is a doll and so sweet. I met Sally and she is all energy."
"Yes I met Sally too and you are so right. That girl ran circles around me and Carla this morning."
"Excuse me Annie but Rhonda is here."
"Thank you Luke. Please tell her we will be right with her."
"Yes ma'am..I mean Annie.. gotcha."
"Get out of here you."
"Come on Boo we have to go. Love you all and we will be back later."
"Have fun tasting cakes bro."
"Just wait, El, your day is coming."
"Yes but not anytime soon."
"Come on Boo, leave him alone. Mom please tell the staff that there will be two more eating tonight. I am inviting Rhonda and Jess."
"Alright darlin I sure will."
"Good morning you two. Are you both well rested after yesterday's outing?"
"Good morning Rhonda and yes we are. We had a very good night's sleep."
"Good so are we ready to tackle the dreaded cake testing Christian that's what people call it?"
"Um..well since you put it that way I think I will stay home."
He looks at Rhonda smiling and winking.
"Christian Grey if you even think about staying home I will put your butt on the first commercial flight back to Tennessee and it won't be first class either."
"Oh love, I was just messing with you. You know I am going to be with you through all of this except for your wedding dress yesterday. I am sorry I forgot how excited and nervous you can be all at once."
He walks over to her and kisses her sweetly on the lips.
"Come on you two let's go."
"Good morning Taylor, are you driving us this morning?"
"Yes ma'am and Ms. Rhonda we have your car parked in the garage when you get ready to leave later today."
"Thank you Taylor and please call me Rhonda not Ms. Rhonda."
"Yes ma'am."
They all get in the car with Taylor driving and Luke sitting in the passenger seat. There are two cars with them, one in front and one behind them.
"Lordy I still have to get used to all of your security but I understand why you need them."
"Yes they are a bit overwhelming but we are used to them. They grow on after a while ain't that right Jason?"
"Yes Annie you are right."
"May I ask how long you have known Taylor? If it isn't any of my business please forgive me."
"Oh no it's not a problem. Taylor and Gail have been our CPO's from the day we got to Cambridge and our house."
"How about Luke?"
"Oh well Luke we picked him up on the side of the road one day. He was sitting there with his Marine uniform on and a suitcase beside him. Dad dragged him home and he has been with us since I was in middle school."
Annie says all this with a straight face. Christian and the guys are about to bust a gut from holding in their laughter.
"Annie please tell me that is not true?"
"No Rhonda Luke is retired from the Marines and he was highly recommended to be security for our family. But he has been with us since I was in middle school."
Now they all were laughing.
"Thank you for telling her the truth love. I couldn't hold it in any longer."
"Oh my goodness Annie you have some imagination."
"Well I thought at one time I wanted to write but changed my mind. But I bet I could tell you some doozies about us. That would be enough to write a book about."
"Christian all I can say is you better hold on tight to her."
"Yes ma'am that I will do."
They didn't even realize they had arrived at their destination until Luke spoke up.
"Excuse me Annie."
"Yes Luke."
"We have arrived at the bakery."
"Oh my goodness I didn't realize we were here. Thank you Luke."
Luke gets out and opens Annie's door and Taylor opens Christian's.
"It is safe you all can go in."
"Thank you Colby."
"Yes ma'am."
They walk into the bakery and Annie smells the most wonderful smell in the world.
"Excuse me, is that buttercream frosting with a touch of rum in it?"
"Yes ma'am it is and the cake is a rum cake."
"Wow you have a nose for smell."
"Excuse me my name is Gloria Davenport and welcome to my establishment Sinful Delights."
"Thank you Ms. or Mrs. Davenport?"
"Mrs. Davenport."
"Nice to meet you Mrs. Davenport. My name is Ana Steele and this is my fiance Christian Grey. These guys that are with us are our security. I understand you have signed an NDA."
"Yes ma'am and my staff as well. No one will talk, we are all family here. I understand the need for privacy."
"Thank you ma'am and could we see a list of your cakes please?"
"Absolutely my dear if you both will come over here to the table we will bring out samples for you both to taste. We have a large variety to choose from. I pride myself on making the best."
"Thank you ma'am."
"Rhonda, how nice to see you again dear."
"Mrs. Davenport, nice to see you as well."
They brought out a whole tray of samples of different cakes and frostings.
"Try this one Annie Rose. It says the cake is chocolate, the filling is chocolate mousse and the frosting is chocolate buttercream. She also has the same one here but it has the touch of rum in the frosting."
"Oh let me taste the one with rum first."
She tasted it. It was good but not what she was looking for.
"Not what I'm looking for love."
They tasted cake after cake and frostings until they couldn't tell one from the other.
"Let's find the groom's cake Boo. We can come back to our wedding cake in a few minutes."
"If you are sure."
"Yes sugar I am."
"Mrs. Davenport, do you have a list for groom's cakes and preferably something chocolate?"
"Oh my goodness dear yes I do. I just made one this morning and I think you both will like it. If not, I have a few more chocolate ones or I can make you more."
"Wow, she is excited about this cake. Let's see what she has."
Oh my goodness she walks out with a huge cake on a pedestal and all you can see is chocolate. Christian is in heaven.
"Now don't let name bother you but it is one of my specialties everyone raves about here on the island. I do not use the same chocolate in every cake. They are all one of a kind. This one has never been tasted before."
"My gracious it is huge and smells delicious."
"How many layers is this stunning cake Mrs. Davenport?"
"Seven layers Ms. Steele."
"Please call me Ana."
"If you will please call me Gloria."
"Yes ma'am."
"Alright I am waiting on the name of this cake. I do not see a sign for it."
"Mr. Grey, why don't you both taste it first please?"
They both reach for a fork and taste the chocolate cake.
"Oh my lord, this is so moist it melts in your mouth and the cake has so many flavors it is wonderful. I can taste Chocolate Liqueur and chocolate fudge, and chocolate mousse. Is that white chocolate in there too?"
"Yes Ana it is. Wow you have a palate for tasting flavors."
"Well I love to cook and bake. I helped my mom in the kitchen a lot growing up. As a matter of fact I taught this one to cook while we were in college."
"Really wow that is amazing. Now do you want to know the name of this cake?"
"Yes ma'am please."
"Seven Sins."
"Because of the chocolate flavors and the seven layers?"
"Yes it is, dear girl."
"Mr. Grey, what did you think of the cake?"
"Well first please call me Christian and it was delicious. I have found my cake love."
"I figured you had that smile on your face and you haven't stopped eating it."
They all laugh.
"Now you said this one is new right?"
"Yes Ana it is and if Christian wants it as his groom's cake no one will ever have the same flavors as this one. You know there are hundreds of chocolates on the market."
"Yes ma'am I do. I try different ones all the time."
"So my love, is this the cake you want?"
"Yes love it is."
"Alright one down one to go."
"You don't want a bride's cake?"
"No love I don't. Our wedding cake will be enough for me."
"Well I don't feel right getting one and you not having one."
"I tell you what she can make me a smaller one. I will choose one after we choose our wedding cake."
"Alright, that makes me feel better."
"Yes I know and I know how much you want that cake Boo."
"Oh you have a nickname for him. Does he have one for you? I know I hear him call you love."
"Yes he does it's Little Annie Rose or Annie Rose but his favorite is my rose."
"How sweet."
"Thank you and do you have a red velvet cake I can taste?"
"Yes Ana I do. Mindy, would you bring out a slice of the red velvet cake please?"
"Yes ma'am right away."
She sets the cake down in front of Ana and they both taste it.
"Oh goodness this is delicious Gloria."
"Thank you dear."
"I can taste all the flavors I want this one for my bride's cake."
"One question Ana, can you taste something different in this cake?"
"Oh you are talking about Baileys Irish Cream Mousse aren't you?"
"Yes ma'am I was. Like I said, you have a great palate for taste."
"Well thank you."
"Alright we have the groom's cake Seven Sins and the bride's cake Red Velvet. Now all we need is the wedding cake. How many people are you expecting dear?"
"Rhonda, what is the total of all the people for the wedding?"
"From all the RSVP's we got back everyone sent their response they will be here. There will be one hundred."
"Okay thank you and please try some of these samples."
"Thank you I will. I am dying to try that Seven sins cake."
"I have always wanted to make a champagne strawberry cake but never have had the time. Do you make those?"
"Yes I do and I have one in the cake display. Let me get you a slice. I'll be right back."
"Have you ever tasted one before love?"
"Yes I have but it was when I was messing around with your grandmother and we were trying different tastes for cakes. It was pretty good and that was years ago. I think I was in middle school and she wouldn't let me have much because of the champagne."
"Ana here and Christian go try this and tell me what you think? I can make this for you and your guests. Just tell me what you want, how many layers and what you want on top of the cake."
Ana and Christian taste the cake. Ana is sitting there with her eyes closed savoring every morsel in her mouth. She has a smile on her face and she is moaning softly but they can hear her.
"Well my rose what do you think? I don't think I have to ask your eyes and expression tell me all I need to know."
"Oh my god this is the best, I mean the best cake I have ever tasted. No offense to the Seven Sins or the others but this is outstanding."
"So I take it this is your wedding cake?"
"Absolutely, positively no doubt about it."
"I am so happy you like it."
"No ma'am I love it."
"Alright then love it. Now how many layers are we talking about? How big do you want it and what do you want on it?"
"Well with one hundred fifty people we should go with five or six layers. I want you to start with the largest and make them smaller as you work your way up to the top. I would like you to make strawberries out of the icing and kinda have them swirling around the layers. You can do that? I also want real strawberries on the top layer around the cake. The cake will be like a dusty rose or pale rose color right?"
"Wow my dear you know just what you want. Yes I can make the strawberries and yes it will be a pale pink color."
"Aright we have our cakes my darlin. Now let's go and pick out our flowers. Thank Gloria and we appreciate the time you have spent with us today."
"It was my pleasure dear."
"Oh yes, do you want us to pay for the cakes now?"
"No ma'am my policy is if you are not happy there will be no charge."
"Oh wow how can you do that and make a living?"
"I am not bragging but I have been in business right here for forty eight years and hun I have never had anyone bring their cakes back or be dissatisfied."
"Wow, that is awesome. I guess we better tell you when the wedding is."
"No need Rhonda has filled me in and I know all about it. You and Christian are top priority, no one else is on the list, just you two."
"Oh okay thank you."
"My pleasure dear."
They left the bakery and rode over to pick out the flowers for her and the ladies.
"I think we got what we wanted, don't you Annie Rose?"
"Yes love I believe we did. Every color of a rose there was. I think Rhonda and Jess can make the beach area look very special. I am just glad they had that many."
"Yes Ana we can make it special for you two. I know what you want. You have sent me photos of the way you want everything set up. I am happy they had all the flowers for you and the girls."
"We have one more stop to make. You and Christian are getting the bridal party gifts right? I know you both said you wanted different things for the Maid of Honor and your best man. So I thought we could do that today before we go back to your house. That is if you want to."
"Oh that is fine and before I forget you and Jess are invited for dinner tonight. Our chef already knows to add you and Jess to dinner."
"Yes we would love to join you all for dinner."
"I want us to pick out gifts for our mothers, dads and grandparents. I think I would like for them all to have something to remember our special day with us."
"May I make a suggestion?"
"Sure you can."
"Well we haven't talked about something for the family so why not have pictures taken with them. Together and separate. You can still give them a gift too. I can arrange for a photographer to come to the house and take pictures of everyone, then we can do a special photo shoot of just you and Ana."
"I like that, what do you think Christian?"
"Yes I like that idea and we would have our pictures to remember our special day and we can share that with children one day."
"Oh love yes we can and we can tell them about our love for each other and how happy we have always been."
"Sounds like you both know what you want."
"Yes ma'am make the arrangements for the photographer."
"I will do that while you both pick out gifts."
"Jason, have the guys checked the jewelry store out and gotten NDAs signed?"
"Yes Christian they did while y'all were cake tasting."
"Rhonda you are right on the ball. I don't know what we would have done without you and Jess. You both are a Godsend."
"Ana we are just doing our job and trying to make everything easier on you two. I am just glad we were able to have everything ready for you all when you got here."
"Well y'all did an excellent job. Thank you so much."
"You're quite welcome."
They arrive at the jewelry store.
They walk in and look around.
"Welcome Ms. Steele and Mr. Grey. My name is Randolph Mason and welcome to my establishment Forever Memories. How can I help you today?"
"Thank you Mr. Mason, we would like to purchase gifts for our bridal party. We also want gifts for our mothers, fathers and grandparents."
"Well my dear young lady you have come to the right place. Shall we look for the bridal party first? I assume you want special gifts for the Maid of Honor and Best Man, correct?"
"Yes sir we do. The Maid of Honor is my best friend. We grew up together and the best man is Christian's brother."
"Very good and do you know what you would like for them?"
"Yes I want a locket so I can put a picture in it and have it engraved on the back. To my best friend, thank you for being a part of my special day. I love you. Annie."
"Yes, that would be a lovely gift for her."
" do you know what you want to give your brother?"
"Yes sir I want an old time looking pocket watch and I want it engraved with.. Thank you bro for always having my back and taking care of me. I love you. Christian."
"Oh I have just the watch collection you might be interested in sir."
"That would be wonderful if you have what I am looking for."
"I believe we can accommodate you both with your gifts."
"Thank you sir."
"If you will follow me I will show you the lockets first Ms. Steele and then show Mr. Grey the watches."
"That will be fine sir."
They walk on further into the store and stop at a selection of lockets.
"May I see this one with the emeralds around it please?"
"Josh, would you please take out the locket with the emeralds please thank you."
"Yes sir."
He sets the case with the locket on top of the glass and removes it laying on a velvet cloth.
"Oh my goodness this is beautiful. Look at the detail love and the design is perfect for Carol. I like it and I like that the chain is platinum and adjustable. When could this be ready?"
"I do the engraving here on site and it can be ready in a few days. Mr. Grey yours can be ready that day too."
"That is wonderful to hear as our wedding is the thirty-first of December."
"Oh yes that won't be a problem, we will get them ready for you to pick up in two days."
"Good thank you. Annie, I am going to look at the watches. Why don't you look for the ladies' gifts and Jason will be with you."
"Okay I can do that. Come on Jason I need to get Christian his gift without him knowing about it."
"What are you looking for? Do you have anything in mind?"
"Yes I want to get him an Omega watch. He has a Rolex but the Omega watch is one of the top Swiss brands, the same as the Rolex is but he has talked about the Omega watch so that's what I want to give him as a wedding present."
"They are looking at watches right now. Come on, let's find the ladies a gift then we can sneak back to the watches while he looks for the men a gift."
"And they call me sneaky."
They both snicker.
"Alright I have picked out everyone's gift. Do you see my man anywhere near the watches?"
"No Annie, he has moved on over to the jewelry section."
"Mr. Mason, could you help me for a moment?"
"Yes ma'am what do you need?"
"I would like to look at some Omega watches for Christian if you have them."
"Yes ma'am we surely do and they are very nice watches."
"Yes sir I know he has a Rolex but he is always talking about an Omega watch."
"Let me bring some over here for you to look at."
"Thank you sir."
"Oh my goodness so many styles and sizes. Not to mention the different face colors. Oh I like this here. May I see it?"
"Yes ma'am this is one of the top selling watches. I am sure you know it is one of the top Swiss watches, the same as the Rolex?"
"Yes sir I do. I read about this watch and I like this one. I like the name Constellation and the blue face it will look perfect on his arm. Can you engrave on the back?"
"Yes ma'am what would you like to say?"
"To my one and only from now and forever I will love you more and more each day. All my love your wife Little Annie Rose Grey and the date of our marriage. December thirty-first."
"Yes Ms. Steele I surely can."
"Thank you sir and please gift wrap it. I don't want anyone looking at it."
"Of course Ms. Steele everything will be gift wrapped."
"Thank you sir. One more thing I want to look at is some cufflinks."
"Yes ma'am right over here to your left we have an assortment of them."
"I like these and that pair may I see them?"
"Yes ma'am one moment. Karen, will you bring out the cufflinks please."
"Yes sir."
"Oh yes, those will look good with the suits he wears to meetings. I'll take these, Mr. Mason."
"Very good Ms. Steele and is there anything else I can help you with?"
No sir, I believe I am finished with my gift shopping. Thank you so much for helping me."
"You are very welcome and it was a pleasure meeting you and Mr. Grey today."
"Sweetheart there you are, are you ready to go?"
"Yes love I am how about you? Did you find everything you were looking for?"
"Yes Boo I did and then some. It was hard choosing for our moms but I got them something that I think they will like."
"That's good and I found all the mens gifts."
"Mr. Mason, it has been a pleasure shopping at your store. Thank you and your assistants for all the kind help."
"Thank you both very much for shopping here and I will have all the gifts finished and gift wrapped in two days."
"Mr. Mason please call this number when everything is ready sir and we will pick the gifts up."
Jason hands him a card with his name on and cell phone number.
"Yes sir and might I ask who you are? I am not trying to be rude but I would like to know who will be in charge of all these expensive gifts you understand sir."
"Yes sir and forgive me. I am one of their CPO's and my name is Jason Taylor."
"Well nice to meet you Mr. Taylor and I will look forward to seeing you in two days sir."
"Yes sir, you will have a nice day."
"Come on Annie Rose, time to go home. I am starving."
"Oh Boo you are just like Elliot, both of you have bottomless pits for stomachs."
They all walk out and see Rhonda talking with Jess.
"Hey, why didn't y'all come into the store?"
"Oh no Ana, that was your and Christian's time. We didn't want to interfere."
"Well you wouldn't have but I understand. Now are we ready to go to the house and have dinner? I for one am hungry and Christian is starving."
"Yes we will follow you in my car."
"Alright, see you at the house."
They arrive at the house and wait for Taylor and Luke to open their doors.
Rhonda and Jess pull right beside them.
"Ms. Thomas if you will give me your keys I will park your car in the garage with Ms. Burns?"
"Of course here you go."
They all walk into the house and it smells heavenly.
"What is that wonderful smell Ana?"
"That would be our dinner. I will let Chef Sambora tell you what we are having."
"Alright I can wait but please give us a tour of this magnificent house, villa or I dare say a mansion?"
"I just call it a house Christian and everyone else says mansion."
"I have to agree with them Ana. It looks more like a mansion. It is huge my dear."
"Well yeah it is but it's our second home so it's home to me."
"Um y'all bought this mansion?"
"Yes Jess we did and the resort along with it."
Rhonda and Jess look at each other and then back at Ana.
"Love I believe you have them tongue tied."
"I think you are right Boo."
"Oh forgive me but I wasn't expecting you to say that."
"That's alright our family wasn't expecting to hear it either."
"We also bought a beachside hotel and restaurant in North Carolina and added a water park to it."
"Oh wow are you thinking about doing something like that down here at this resort?"
"We are talking about it but not sure if we want it here. Maybe on the island but not at our home."
"Yes I understand that. I don't think I would either. There would be so much traffic coming and going, not to mention a nightmare for your security.'
"Yes, not to mention Jason would be gray headed."
They all laugh.
"We are going to wait a while before we do anything like that. We have plans at home to build a homeless shelter and a soup kitchen and another food bank."
"Oh, that is wonderful to hear more people need to do that. I am sure you already have sponsors knocking down your door wanting to contribute to the cause."
"We have a few but we wanted to do it on our own but everyone says we need sponsors. So we have been in talks with a few people."
"Come y'all let's go out on the deck and get something cold to drink and maybe a snack before dinner."
"Yes Boo I would like a cold glass of tea. Ladies, how about you?"
"Tea sounds lovely Ana."
"Ms. Steele, what can I get for you all?"
"You don't have to do that Wendy."
"Yes ma'am I know this but I am not needed in the kitchen at the moment and I just saw you all coming out talking about something to drink. Now what would you all like?"
"Four cold glasses of tea please and thank you."
"My pleasure ma'am."
"Wendy, how long before dinner?"
"Another two hours sir."
"Would you bring us some cheese and crackers please?"
"Yes Mr. Grey."
"Here you go ladies and sir."
"Thank you hun."
"Yes ma'am."
"Wendy, do you know where our family is?"
"The moms are relaxing at the indoor pool. The dads are in the sauna. I believe Mr. Elliot and his lady are swimming at the outdoor pool. The grandparents are taking naps. As for the others, I think they are in their bungalows."
"Wow okay thank you."
Ana is speechless.
"They left a note so I could tell you where they were in case you needed them. I saw you thinking Ms. Steele."
"Yes I was wondering how in the world you remembered all that. Unless you have a photographic memory like me."
"No ma'am not that I know of. I am just good at remembering things I read."
"Hun, that is what a photographic memory is. I think you have a photographic memory. That's the way I remember things I see. I can tell you verbatim word for word after I read something but I can also speed read."
"Are you in college? Has no one ever mentioned that to you?"
"Yes ma'am I am graduating next year. No no one has ever brought that up."
"Wow I wonder why a teacher never said anything? How long have you been able to do this?"
"Since I was a little girl."
"Forgive me for asking but what are you taking in college? What do you want to do after college?"
"I am taking business and economics classes. I would one day like to open my own rental agency down here. There are so many opportunities for people to visit here and other islands close by. I would like to be able to help them fulfill their dreams."
"Very nice and I love how you worded that, that you would like to help them. You never once mentioned anything about money."
"Do you parents know that's what you are trying to achieve in college?"
"Yes ma'am they do."
"One last question: do you live at home or at the college?"
"I travel back and forth each day. It's not that far from my house to the college."
"Alright I will let you go and do what you need to do. If Chef Sambora gets onto you, tell him Ii was talking to you about school."
"Yes ma'am and I will see you all at dinner."
"My love I see the wheels turning in that lovely brain of yours."
"I am just thinking you know me when I have it worked out I will talk to you about it. Right now let's have our tea and snacks and prepare for our wedding."
"Alright, good idea."
"Okay now that you have mentioned the wedding have y'all chosen your music? Ana you said something about a DJ at the reception, are you still planning on that? We never got a confirmed yes or no from you."
"Oh dang, I just told Christian that we need to do that and talk about the music. It won't take us long to decide. We know what we like and yes a DJ for the reception. I will leave that for you to contact DJ's. The music must be rock, classical country, new country and R & B. Our dads like a variety and we do too. I would like for the DJ to play Kenny G's song Forever in Love."
"Okay Classical country you are referring to old country like Patsy Cline, George Jones, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn and maybe Hank Williams?"
"Yes ma'am our grandparents love that stuff. You ought to see them dancing at Gala's. They don't play the older country but they do play Old Blue Eyes are the talk of the town."
"Alright I can do that. I bet they are."
"Do you know what song you want played at your wedding?"
Annie looks at Christian.
"We will talk about that later."
"Yes he is choosing the song."
"Oh okay, got it."
"Well I think that covers the music and you have chosen your place at the beach to have the ceremony. We have everything we need. It will all be set up three hours prior to the wedding. We are bringing the guests in thirty minutes prior to the wedding. We do not want anyone getting too hot even though it will be beside the water."
"You have your gifts for each other and the wedding party? You have parting gifts for your guest and we stated on the invitations no wedding gifts that they were to donate to their favorite charities. You have chosen your cakes and flowers. Y'all have your wedding attire for everyone."
"Yes ma'am all checked and double checked."
"Well we seem to have everything in order and the catering service is up to date on what you want."
"Excuse me ma'am."
"Yes Sally?"
"Your parents and everyone else is in the dining room. Dinner is about to be served in a few minutes."
"Thank you Sally. We will be right there."
They all walk into the house and go to the dining room and await their dinner to be served.
"Hello everyone, I am Chef Sambora. Ms. Steele and Mr. Grey I am sorry I was not available this morning to meet you. I have been preparing this lovely dinner and dessert."
"No problem sir, we understand how it is. I love to cook too."
"Very well thank you ma'am for understanding. Now my staff will be bringing out your meal."
"Come on out everyone and you know what to do."
There is a line of young ladies and men walking out with food trays high above their heads and carrying a folded table.
"Wow."
They first place the table down between Ana and Christian and then set the tray down with covered dishes on it. Everyone of the staff does the same until they have a tray and table between each person.
"Very good crew. Now please set a covered dish in front of each person and step back."
They do as Chef Sambora orders.
"Would you all like a beverage with your meal?"
They all decided on tea.
Their drinks were poured.
"Please take the cover off each dish and step back."
"Oh my goodness would you look at this? And the smell is oh my goodness what is the word for it?"
"Delightful, scrumptious, heavenly."
"Yes, all three Elliot."
"I hope you all enjoy your meal. My staff has also sat out the steamed vegetables, salads and dressings in the middle of the table."
"What is this magnificent meal Chef Sambora?"
"I have prepared Veal Scallopini with Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato sauce, Fresh steamed vegetables, broccoli, carrots, baked potatoes and a salad with my secret dressing. I hope you all enjoy one of my signature dishes. We shall leave you now and if you need anything just ring the bell."
"Oh goodness this looks so good."
"Yes it does love. Chef Sambora, what is for dessert?"
"It is my Paradise Cake. Please try it and then I will tell you what all is in it. I am sure you will love it. I have had no complaints about it and it is my number one cake everyone asks for at my restaurant."
"We will take your word for it and try it sir."
"Thank you and enjoy your meal. Come along all of you."
They all leave and everyone starts eating and you can hear them moaning and talking to themselves how good it is as they take a bite of the veal or one of the succulent vegetables.
"Oh dear lord, that was one of the best meals I have ever had the pleasure of eating. Thank you all for letting Jess and I join you."
"You are welcome dear."
"Annie, you are going to have to get the recipe for this veal. It is amazing."
"Yes I know and I don't know if he will give it to me."
"Excuse us but would you all like tea? I see the tea pitchers are empty."
"No hun could we have coffee and yes we want to try that cake."
"Yes ma'am we will return with the coffee and cake."
"Chef Sambora, that meal was magnificent. I would eat that again and again sir."
"Thank you ma'am I am glad you enjoyed it."
"We all did sir."
"Now we would like to try that cake please?"
"Yes sir. My staff are bringing it out so I can see your faces when I cut each of you a slice."
They all sit there waiting on their coffee and cake.
"Ah here it is."
"Ladies, if you would please give each person their coffee and come back to me so I can give you a slice of cake to take to each person."
Chef Sambora, made sure he was turned the right way so everyone could see when he cut the cake. He cut into it and then again and brought out a large slice and held it up for everyone to see. All he heard was oh my look at that. Oh the colors and smells so good.
All you could see was a three layer cake with a layer of green, yellow and pink.
"Oh my god that looks amazing Chef Sambora."
"Thank you and after everyone gets a slice I will tell you what is in it."
He looks around the table and sees they all have their slice of cake.
"Please try it first?"
They all take the first bite.
He looks around the table and not only the women but the men have their eyes closed savoring the moistness and the taste.
"Oh this is heaven please tell us what is in it?"
"The layers are a light chiffon- the green is lime, the yellow is liliko'i (also known as passionfruit), and the pink is guava. You would think the taste would be strong but it is far from it right?"
"Yes it has a light taste, not strong at all."
"That is because each layer has lime juice and whip cream."
"Well all I can say is my hat off to the chef. This is out of this world delicious. Thank you sir."
"You are all very welcome and I am glad you have enjoyed everything I and my staff have prepared for you tonight."
"With a doubt we have and we can't thank you enough."
"Chef Sambora you will be here as long as we are here right?"
"Yes ma'am I will."
"Good I would like to talk to you in the morning if you have the time to spare."
"Yes ma'am I will make time. I am preparing you all breakfast in the morning and a light lunch. Then another signature meal. This one will be a lighter dinner."
"That is fine whatever you prepare will be eaten."
He walks back to the kitchen and his helpers follow him.
"My goodness Annie, are you going to try and keep him after you go back home? I mean are you thinking of hiring him for the resort?"
"Yes dad I am. I know he has a restaurant. Anyway I need to talk to him and see what his plans would be."
"That makes sense."
"Well I for one am tired and want to sit outside, relax and look at the beautiful moon over the ocean."
"I think I will join grandma."
They all decided to go and sit out on the deck.
"Ana, Christian we have enjoyed our time with you and your family. The exquisite dinner and company was awesome but my dear if you will call and ask your security to bring our cars up front we will be on our way. It has been wonderful and I will say this is the first time that we have ever sat down and enjoyed a meal with a client but if I may so you and Christian do not feel like clients y'all are friends."
"Of course I will and we will feel the same way. I was just telling Boo yesterday that you both are more than just our planners, you are our friends."
The ladies left and everyone was still on the porch talking.
"Well are y'all getting nervous?"
"No, why would we be nervous Elliot?"
"Because y'all won't be single anymore this is a commitment for life."
"Yes and your point bro?"
"Well..oh hell never mind I know y'all are going to be together forever. You both have since the day you were born."
"It's alright Elliot I know what you are saying but no I am not nervous. I am happy and I can't wait to be married to the man of my life. The one and only one I will ever love and cherish until death do us part and then in eternity."
"I feel the same my rose forever and ever together we are together we will be."
"Well I love you all but my bed is calling me. Goodnight loves I will see you all in the morning."
They all said goodnight to Annie, Christian, Elliot and Carol.
"Annie, have you chosen the flowers and cake? I feel bad because I am the Maid of Honor and I think I should be doing more. I know I verified with Mr. Lang from Forever Impressions making sure everything was ready for taking the photos of everyone and I verified with Mr. Wong as he will be the videographer from Special Memories. They both know they will be at the wedding at least two hours early."
"You know for some reason neither asked where it was going to be held at. Want to tell us now?"
"No you all will know Saturday morning as we are getting married as the sun sets."
"There will be plenty of time for everyone to get ready."
"Yes, Carol, we were doing this on our own. This is our wedding and we want it to be our way. I appreciate everything you have done though with arranging the rooms and getting everything ready. For taking care of the photographer and videographer. For making everyone feel welcome. By the way we have thirty people coming in the next two days. I would like for you and Elliot to make sure they are welcomed if we are not available. You will have security with you and I believe Jason talked to the manager of the hotel and they have a bus that is going to pick everyone up."
"Of course we will. Um where are they going to be staying?"
"There is a hotel not too far from here where we have already reserved the rooms for them. You have probably seen it when you went into town. It's the Capri Oasis on third and seventh avenue."
"Oh yes, the one that has all those shiny windows?"
"Yes that's the one and those windows blind you when the sun is shining on them in the early morning."
"Wow sis how many are going to be at the wedding?"
"The guest list is one hundred . It was hard to do to keep it at that number but we got it all taken care of. We have been extremely busy not only here but at home getting a lot of this taken care of before we got here."
"Yes we know and I am so glad that you choose clothes that I like."
"Well you are most welcome Elliot. So you like the blue suit and polka dot bowtie? Oh and the cummerbund that is bright yellow, how about the pointed toe shoes?"
"Yeah well I get you back for that."
"Hey it is our wedding and you have to wear what I chose for you all."
"Just be glad she didn't want you all in a tux."
Carol deadpans.
"Yeah whatever anyway I will look so sexy up there. You my sweet love won't be able to take your eyes off of me."
"You wish Elliot, you wish."
"If you will excuse me for a minute of love I have to take care of something."
"Of course, sweet man of mine."
He walks over and kisses her lightly on her mouth.
Christian walks off to the study and makes a quick phone call.
"Hello Christian how are you this fine evening down there in Paradise?"
"Hey man I am good and you?"
"Couldn't be better. Are we all set for the weekend, Saturday to be precise?"
"Absolutely man I was checking in with you to make sure all was set with you."
"Yes it is and as I said before I am flying down in my jet. So don't try to change my mind."
Alright okay you win this time. How is the helicopter working out for you?"
"Man, that thing is a dream and it saves me so much time when there is a lot of traffic. I am up here looking down at all these cars stuck in bumper to bumper traffic and I am floating above them."
"That's good to hear. By the way did you get your pilot license?"
"Yes I did after Ana was hurt I took lessons at a place near my home. I love to fly my Eagle. That is what I named it."
"Good name my friend. Well I have got to let you go before Annie Rose comes looking for me and catches me on the phone. Take care my friend and I will see you Friday. Hide in bungalow twenty-eight. Jason knows you are coming and he will pick you up at the airport."
"Sounds good C see you then man."
Christian hangs up the phone. One down, one to go, he says.
"Hello Mr. Jarvis, how are you tonight sir?"
"Christian my boy I am right as rain and you son?"
"Couldn't be better sir. Just checking with you to make sure all plans are still in order for Sunday morning."
"Absolutely Christian everything is in order."
"Thank you sir and we will see you Saturday night at the reception."
"Yes you will and I can't wait to meet your bride. Janice says she is beautiful. She saw her going into a restaurant with a group of ladies yesterday and she said the pictures do not do her justice."
"No sir, the pictures do not do her justice. She is a very beautiful woman and the love of my life."
"Well I better get off here before my girl comes looking for me. I told her I would be right back."
"Alright Christian you go and get your girl, don't keep her waiting."
He says goodbye and looks over his list. I've got to make a few phones in the morning.
"There you are, I thought you got lost in this big house?"
"No my rose, it just took me longer to take care of something. Did you miss me sweetheart?"
"Of course I did and what did you have to do that was so important?"
"Well my lovely rose that is for me to know and for to find out after the wedding."
"Oh, keeping secrets."
"Well this one is a good one and no I will not tell you."
She just smiles at him and sits down on his lap.
"Where did everyone go?"
"Off to bed Elliot said he was tired. Don't know why all he has done today is lay around. Carol said he was lazy all day."
"Well are you ready for bed sweet girl?"
"No, let's go walk on the beach for a little while. I wanna look around where we are having the wedding."
"I thought we had everything set."
"Yes we do, I just want to look at it again. You know we need seating for one hundred and fifty guests and our family. I just want to make sure there is enough room for everyone."
"Love there will be we have the best planners and you keep everyone on their toes. Stop worrying about it and think in two..read my lips my rose..two days we will be husband and wife. I can't wait for that day."
"Okay and yes two days until you are mine and I am yours. I love you so much Christian so very much."
"And I love you so very much my darlin rose."
Annie looks around and tries to look for the best place that she is planning on doing something for the wedding. She tries to be discreet so he doesn't catch her.
"Alright I saw what I needed to look at. We can walk down the beach now. I don't think we need Jason or the guys. We are not going far and this is private property."
"Yes you are right but I betcha they are behind us somewhere."
"Yeah and you would probably be right. We have a group of great guys and gals as security."
"Yes Annie Rose we surely do."
They walk a little further down the beach and sit down on the sand but away from the water. There is a breeze and the tide is in.
"Okay now Rhonda and Jess have gotten everything at the hotel taken care of with the guests and the ballroom for our reception right?"
"Yes Boo they do and like I asked Carol and Elliot to make sure they were welcomed and taken care of."
"It is so peaceful here. I want to go out on a boat and just look at all the places down here."
"We can do that love and we will after we get married."
"Well then let's walk back. I have seen what I needed to see. Everything will look perfect when it is all set up. You know Rhonda and Jess will make double sure of it."
"Yes they will or I am pretty sure heads will roll."
"Chef Sambora asked me if it was alright if he made something for our wedding."
"I told him yes it was fine but he wouldn't tell me what it is going to be. He said it was special for us. I know I can't wait to try it if it is anything like our dinner was. God, that man is an amazing cook."
"Yes he is and I would like to take him home with us but I hope he agrees to work here for us."
" Hey, you don't like my cooking anymore Boo?"
She giggles.
"I was going to talk to him about working here but I wanted you to be there with me when I did."
"Oh my rose, no one can take your place in our kitchen."
"Good save sweet cakes."
They both burst out laughing.
"Yes we can talk to him together and hopefully we can work something out with him. Do you think we will need to enlarge the kitchen and make it more industrial for him? If he decides to work for us."
"I believe we will and Elliot can do that. All he will need is Chef Sambora's input."
"Oh by the way I got twenty emails this morning for reservations. We need to talk to our vacation and rental companies we hired. They are not doing their jobs if all the requests are getting bumped to my email. Have you received any emails or is it just me?"
"I haven't gotten any unless they came in while we were gone."
"I know they took time off for the holidays but they are supposed to have a service to take calls and tell them the resort will not be open until the new year. Someone is slacking off and we can't have that. Hell we might as well do it ourselves if that is the way it is going to be."
"Well love, I suggest we start looking for better help after the new year. I will personally send them all an email letting them know we need to talk to all of them and not to book any reservations until we speak to them."
"Okay will work but I am still pissed that this happened now. I am afraid we will lose business."
"I know what you are saying but hopefully we won't. We will just have to explain what is going on."
"Alright we will do that after the new year."
They walk in the house and it is dark except for one light and no one is about.
"Let's go to bed, love. I think we have overworked our brains today and tonight."
"I think you are right Boo."
They walk to their room, do their night routine and go to bed.
Christian makes slow sweet love to his Annie Rose and they fall asleep with him still inside her.
Time Jump three days…Wedding day December thirty-first
"Mom, why couldn't I stay at home last night? I didn't want to be away from Annie Rose. We have been living together since we went to college."
"You know the bride and groom can't see each other before the wedding. Oh calm down son one night didn't kill you. Just look at this way. You will be in your bed every night from now on after the wedding. Go to bed with your Rose and wake up with her beside you."
"Well yeah but I missed her last night."
"Son from all the liquor you and your dad and all the men drank. I don't see how you missed her. You passed out on the couch."
"By the way how is your head? Annie sent you her headache remedy. She said and I quote "He better drink every bit of or there will be hell to pay. I know what he did and how much he drank last night. I love him but he doesn't want to mess with me this morning." end quote."
He looks at the dark blue stuff in the extra large glass and looks at his mom.
"Uh uh don't say a word just drink down really fast and you will feel like a new man. Well that's what your Annie Rose said and she was laughing."
"Mom, this stuff is gross. I have had it before when Elliot got me drunk after I told him I couldn't live without Annie Rose if something happened to her."
"When was this?"
"Before she came out of the coma. You run me out of the hospital to go home and shower, shave and change clothes. That is the only time I ever left her side. That idiot brother of mine said I needed to calm down and he started giving me liquor. I woke up the next morning with him looking at me with Annie Rose's remedy and told me to drink and get my ass in the shower that we needed to get to the hospital. Well needless to say I did that and that stuff is awful. Did you smell it?"
She is laughing so hard she can barely talk.
"Yes son I did and yes you are right it is. Now drink it."
"Yes ma'am."
He took a deep breath and downed it in a few swallows.
Grace saw the face he made and she felt bad, well almost bad he shouldn't have gotten drunk the night before his wedding.
"If it helps any Carol and Carla made Elliot, your dad and Ray drink it too."
"I was wondering where they all were. I thought they were still passed out."
"Nope Carla came in and y'all were laying all over each other. All hugged up like you were freezing."
She starts laughing again.
"No we weren't please tell me we weren't?"
"Oh just a little secret she has pictures so you better be on your best behavior today."
"Oh my lord please tell me my Rose hasn't seen them."
"Christian I don't know. We left to come check on you all when none of you were answering your phones. Carla and Carol got everyone out of the house after they drank that vile concoction and I stayed with you."
"Now get in the shower you are marrying the love of your life in seven hours."
"Yes I am, aren't I? I can't wait to see her walk down that aisle to me."
"I know you can't now hop to it mister."
"Yes mom and mom thank you I love you very much."
"Christian you are welcome and I love you so very much. I am so happy you are getting your dream."
"You always knew that we would be here one day didn't you mom?"
"Yes son I did. Carla and I always knew that y'all were meant to be together from the time you both were born. Well as a matter of fact probably while you and her were in our tummies. Everytime we got together, which was often, it seemed like you and Annie were calming each other down."
"Really wow how?"
"We think it was either you heard Carla or Annie heard my voice. you two knew when we were together."
"Oh wow you never said that before."
She smiled at him.
"Carla and I always sat side by side and talked. I remember one time Carla and Ray were at the house and I was in the kitchen and Carla was on the deck. You started kicking me something awful when you heard Carla calling me. I walked outside and she said Annie was restless and she couldn't get comfortable. Well low and behold as soon as she heard my voice she calmed down and so did you. So we always had to be close to each other."
"Thank you for telling me that."
"You're welcome now hurry up you and I are going out for our mother son breakfast before the wedding."
"Annie and Ray are going out as well."
"No son, we won't run into them. I know how your and Annie's minds work. We have y'alls numbers."
She says laughing again.
"Oh so Annie Rose thought the same thing?"
"Yes, now hurry we are burning daylight."
"Yes ma'am I am going. You know I feel one hundred percent better
He gets his shower and puts on jeans and a t-shirt and his flip flops.
"Alright mom let's go I am starving."
They walk arm and arm out of the hotel and down the street to the little cafe on the corner. It is quaint and peaceful. Not too busy.
"Is this alright mom? Annie Rose and I stopped here yesterday for coffee and a pastry. They serve breakfast too."
"Yes Christian this is fine thank you."
He pulls her chair out for her and she sits down and he sits down across from her.
"Good morning, welcome to The Pastry house. What can I get you this lovely morning?"
"Good morning two coffees and give us a few minutes please thank you."
"Yes ma'am I'll be right back with your coffees."
They look over the menu.
"Christian I am going to have french toast with a side of bacon."
"That sounds good. I think I'll have that too with a double side of bacon."
"I swear you and Elliot are going to turn into bacon if y'all don't stop eating it so much. We will be looking for you two and y'all will be two fat little pigs playing in the mud."
Grace can't hold her laughter in as she is dying laughing.
"Really mom, come on."
He looks at her and starts to chuckle and then starts laughing cause Grace is about to fall out of her chair laughing so hard.
"My graciousness, it is so nice to see people smiling and laughing. You two have made my day. It started out dull as dishwater. Thank you. Now what can I get you two?"
"We would like the french toast hers with a side of bacon and mine with a double side of bacon please and more coffee when you have the time."
Grace starts laughing again.
"Oh hun don't mind me I am just in a very good mood today."
"Yes ma'am and sir I will be right back with your coffee."
They ate their breakfast and went back to the hotel. Grace left him with the men since they were back.
"Grace, how is my soon-to-husband? Did he drink my concoction and is he feeling better? Or do I have to go and beat him up?"
"Oh no Annie he is fine. He drank that awful concoction of yours and we went out and had a wonderful breakfast just him and I. It was nice and he said he would see you later this evening waiting for you to walk to him. He said he loves you and can't wait to be your husband."
"Oh that sweet man of mine. Did you give him my gift?"
"Yes darlin I did and this is his gift for you."
"Thank you Grace, did he open it?"
"No honey he said he would open when he was alone."
"That's him to a tee. He is afraid he will cry. I know him so well."
"Yes, yes you do. Now are you going to open yours so we can see what my thoughtful son got you?"
"I will right before I put on my gown."
"Well darlin you don't have much longer. Only four hours and counting."
"Yes mom I know and I am going to go and take a nice long bath and relax."
"Alright you go and relax. I will make sure the girls are taken care of with the makeup and hair specialist that are coming."
"Don't forget you all have to get beautiful too. Where is Gail?"
"She is with Jason right now. She said she would see you in a little while."
"Okay thank you. I'll see y'all in a little while."
Annie walks off with her gift and letter from Christian. She undresses and climbs in the huge bathtub. She relaxes with the scent of the candles she lit before Grace got there. The candles and soft music she was playing in the background gave the room a romantic ambience. She just wished Christian was there to share it with her.
She settled back with her bath pillow and opened her loves letter.
My darling Annie Rose,
Well my Rose today we make it official. I become your husband and you become my wife. I can't wait to see you walk down that aisle to me as we share our moments looking into each other's eyes and knowing from that moment moving forward we will be united forever and a day. I love you my sweet Rose, you are everything to me. You make me a better person, you have made me a better man. There were times when I was scared and you somehow knew something was wrong. We had a few ups and downs in school but we persevered and moved forward.
My darling Anastasia Rose yeah I used your proper name. Only this time my love anyway . I knew the moment we looked into each other's eyes we were meant to be together. I believe we knew it when we were born. You are my soulmate Annie Rose. I will always love you and take care of you in good times and bad. I will always be there for you no matter what. You are not just my best friend, you are my lover, my girl, my heart and my life.
The day you got hurt I thought my life was over. When you didn't wake up for a month I was scared I was going to lose you. Or if you woke up and didn't know me I don't think I could have handled it. But then I got to thinking no matter if you knew me or not. Our love is strongest and I will just love you and prove to you all over again you are my life my love.
Ok this is getting snappy and I want to cry like a baby.
Annie Rose I love you and I will see you very soon. I will be waiting with our family and friends at the end of the aisle waiting for our beginning.
With all my love your husband,
Christian
She folds the paper and bawls like a baby. My god I knew he loved me but now I know just how very much. That man loves me as much as I love him and yes we will always be together.
She sits there crying softly until the water starts to cool. She gets out and dries off, puts on her bathrobe and walks out of the bathroom and into her bedroom.
She looks up and sees her mom, Grace, the grandmothers and her bridal party sitting around talking.
"Well hello everyone how are you all doing today? My don't you all look lovely? I love those gowns. They are perfect for you all."
"Thank you Annie, we love them too. You chose the right color for each of us."
"Did you all decide on barefoot sandals or heels?"
They all bring their feet up and show her they all went for barefoot sandals like her.
"Oh good they are perfect with your gowns."
"Mom and ladies, you all chose flats didn't you? Where are your dresses?"
"Yes Annie love we did and we haven't gotten our hair and makeup done. We are going to wait a bit before we dress. They are waiting for you. Come with me darlin and let's see what they are going to do to your hair."
"Annie, how are you going to wear your hair?"
"Down with the right side held up by the beautiful blue comb that Carol gave me as my something blue."
"That will look lovely."
They walk into a room and there is a lot of chatter going on. When they see Annie they are speechless.
"Annie, this is Constance and her team. Valeria, Shawnee, Bethany and Elise."
"Ladies this is my daughter and the bride Annie. I will leave her with you. Take care of my girl and she doesn't need much."
"Hello Annie I must say you are very beautiful and stunning. There isn't much I can do with you, my dear."
"Hello Constance and ladies. Well thank you ma'am and you can do a light makeup and I would like my hair down and held up on the right side by this beautiful comb please."
"Yes lovely lady, we can do that and my goodness that comb is exquisite."
"Thank you, my best friend gave it to me. You met her earlier, the bubbly Carol."
"Oh heavens yes we did and she is so full of energy she made me tired."
"Yes, that is her."
They take care of Annie and Carla and the family walk in to take their turns. Annie starts to walk back to her room.
"Annie please wait on me and Grace to help you into your gown?"
"Of course mom I wouldn't have it any other way."
"We'll be with you shortly."
Annie walks to her room and Carol helps her with her satin and silk lingerie that will have Christian speechless when he takes her gown off. She sits on her bed with her robe on waiting for her moms.
They come walking into her bedroom arm in arm talking and laughing.
"Well my darlin daughter it is about that time. Are you ready to finally become Mrs. Anastasia Rose Grey, Mrs. Christian Grey?"
"Oh my heavens yes I have waited for this day forever. I am finally going to marry my soulmate and live happily ever after."
"Where are the grands?"
"Oh they are getting beautified as they say."
"Should we wait on them before I put on my gown?"
"They should be along very soon."
"Ladies, I was crying in my bath earlier, nothing is wrong. My sweet man wrote me the most romantic letter when he sent me my wedding gift. That man poured his heart out to me. I must say I cried like a baby. It was so beautifully written and he puts his heart into everything he says and does."
"Oh I can just imagine what my son wrote."
"Now let me open this wedding gift,"
They all stand there silently waiting patiently for her to tear the paper apart. But she takes her sweet time.
"Come on Annie rip it open."
"No, no this paper is being kept, I am not throwing it away."
She finally has the gift unwrapped and starts opening it when the door opens and in walks the grandmothers.
"Oh we are right on time. What did that lovely man give you my darlin girl?"
She takes the top off and gasps really loud as does everyone in the room.
"Oh my god would you all look at these, they are the most exquisite diamonds and sapphires I have ever laid my eyes on. Look at the detail of this bracelet?"
"Oh my goodness Annie this is so beautiful and it is perfect for you to wear with your wedding gown."
"Yes mom it is. Now will you and Grace help me into this magnificent gown so I can go and marry my sweet man?"
"Yes darlin we will."
They all stand around watching Carla and Grace put Annie's gown on her trying not to mess with her hair.
"Annie, you are the loveliest bride I have ever seen. You my girl are what dreams are made of."
"Thank you Gail."
"Oh my lawd Annie Rose you are a princess this gown is you and I don't think you could have chosen anything that would compare to this beautiful wedding gown. It is you and that grandson will be speechless."
"Thank you granma."
"Carol, will you do the honors and fasten her up please."
"Yes ma'am I surely will."
"My darlin daughter, will you please tell us where the wedding is going to be now?"
"Yes right out there on the beach. Everything is set up and the men will come and get all of you and take you to your seats in a little while. Have you all had pictures made and did you all see the videographer?"
"Yes they have been taking pictures and videos all day. We need you out of here so we can get some pictures of you with the moms, grands and us."
"Ok we need to put my jewelry on and grab my veil."
Carla helps her put on her bracelet and earrings.
"My sweet girl, you are a vision."
"Thank you momma."
"Shall we dear heart?"
"Yes gram we shall."
They all walk out of the bedroom and go downstairs and see the photographer taking pictures of all the decorations that they have in the house for this occasion.
"Ms. Steele if I may say my dear you are the most exquisite bride I have ever had the pleasure to photograph. You are truly a vision as your fiance told me earlier."
"Well thank you sir. Where would you like me to sit?"
"Please just find a seat and be comfortable. Mrs. Steele would sit on her right please and both of you just ignore me. I want your natural poses."
They do as he asked. He took a million pictures. Then he got everyone taking turns with Annie then by herself.
The videographer came in and did his thing.
"Ms. Steele, you are very photogenic. The camera loves you. You have an ethereal beauty about you. Absolutely exquisite. Mr, Grey is one lucky man."
"Well um thank you but I am the lucky one."
"He said you would say that."
"Are we done here? We need to get these ladies seated. It is almost time."
"Yes Luke, we are ready. Annie my darlin girl we will see you soon. I love you and I am so happy for you."
"I love you momma and thank you."
"Ladies, I have the guys coming in to walk you to your seats."
They all walk out with the guys and the bride and her ladies are waiting.
"My god Annie Rose you are so beautiful my darlin sweet girl. I love you so much sweetheart and I am so happy for you."
"I love you daddy and thank you."
"Ms. Steele, may I get some pictures of you and your dad?"
"Absolutely you can."
"Thank you and just be yourselves."
"Thank you ma'am and I believe it is time."
"Annie, it's time, are you ready to do this?"
"Rhonda more than anything in the world. Is everything ready and in place?"
"Yes honey it is."
"Alright ladies your gentlemen are coming up to get you all. Do you have your bouquets?"
"Yes we do. Annie, we will see you very soon."
Rhonda hands Annie something and they walk out of the house.
Ray puts Annie's veil down.
"Let's go and get me married to my sweet man."
"Yes ma'am sweetheart."
The Maid of Honor and Best man walk down the aisle.
One by one the bridesmaids walk down with their groomsmen.
"Would everyone stand please?"
Christian hears the song and it's perfect for them. After everyone walks down to their places. It's time for the bride and her father. Annie surprises Christian. She sings walking down to him. He has tears falling down his face but he doesn't care. He can't take his eyes off of his life.
From this moment, life has begun
From this moment, you are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on
From this moment, I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love, I'd give my last breath
From this moment on
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
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, oh
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
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, I will love you
As long as I live, from this moment on
Annie reaches him with tears in her eyes. She smiles at him as he smiles at her. She wipes his tears with her fingertips.
Ray places her hand in Christian's.
"Take care of my girl. Love her always as you do now. I give you my pride and joy."
"Always dad always. I will love her forever."
Ray lifts her veil just enough to kiss her cheek and brings it back down.
"Ana and Christian wrote their vows. They both told me the traditional vows weren't meant for them. Well, knowing them as long as I have, I have to agree with them."
"Christian when you are ready."
"Annie Rose, from this moment on, I Christian, take my best friend, my lover and my wife for all eternity. I pledge to honor, encourage, and support you through our walk together. When our way becomes difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that through our union we can accomplish more than we could alone. I promise to work at our love and always make you a priority in my life. With every beat of my heart, I will love you. Today I give you not only my love, my heart and my body, Annie Rose I give you everything I am and everything I will be. I love you my darlin Little Annie Rose
"Annie Rose, Love is not just a feeling, it is our journey together."
"Love is not just looking at each other, it's looking in the same direction together."
Annie when you are ready.
"Christian, You are my heart, my light, my love, and my soulmate. You make all the wrong things right, and you always manage to put a smile on my face. Whenever I am with you, I get this feeling that words cannot describe. It is something that I would hate to lose and that's why I pledge my heart and soul to you. I pledge to stand by you always, no matter the consequences. And to let you know when you're wrong. I pledge to uplift and honor you, even after you make me mad by leaving the toilet seat up. I pledge to be open and honest with you, even when it might be hard to hear. And I pledge to love you always, even when we're old and gray and today is a distant memory. Christian you are not only my best friend, my lover, my betting partner you my love are my everything. I love you and I give you my heart, my soul, my body but most of all I give you my love from this day forward. I love you Christian."
"Christian, every moment with you feels like a dream come true. I love you more than words can express."
"Our love is not just something we feel, it is something we do. And with you my love it is effortless."
"Christian repeat after me and place your ring on Annie's finger.
"With this ring I wed."
Christian takes the ring and repeats his vow and puts his ring on Annie Rose.
"Annie repeat after me and place your ring on his finger.
Annie repeats her vow and puts her ring on his finger
"With this ring I wed."
"Now by the power invested by the state of Hawaii I now pronounce you husband and wife. Christian you may kiss your bride."
He doesn't waste a minute and the kiss is not a normal kiss. He stops when everyone claps and Elliot says
"Save it for tonight bro."
Everyone laughs.
Christian and Annie Rose turn around.
"Ladies and gentlemen Mr. and Mrs. Christian Grey."
They walk down the aisle to all the congratulations and into the house.
"We are finally husband and wife my darlin Rose."
"Yes, we are my gorgeous husband."
He grabs her and kisses the daylights out of her. They are both breathless when they come up for air.
"Um, excuse me. I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I was heading out and well you were kissing so I walked away. I will say I got some photos of you both for your memory book. I hope you don't mind?"
"No sir, not at all every memory we make is special to us. besides you are supposed to take photos whenever you see any of us."
"Thank you very much. And may I see you both are a gorgeous couple. You don't usually see couples so in love as you two are. Thank you for letting me be a part of it."
"You are welcome and we appreciate you doing this for us."
"Yes sir and now I need to get to the hotel and start taking pictures there."
"Yes and we will see you there soon."
"Christian, Annie your parents are looking for y'all."
"We are coming Jason and thank you for marrying us."
"It was my pleasure we love you both, you are family."
"As we love you two."
"Annie let's go, they are waiting on y'all."
"Okay dad, we are ready."
I have to stop now. I have over 15,000 words. I didn't realize it until I checked my count. Oh well enjoy reading and thank you all for the reviews and staying with me.
That's it. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I loved writing it. Well what did you all think of the Destination wedding in Hawaii?
The song Annie Rose sang was : From This Moment On
By: Shania Twain
She surprised Christian with her singing to him.
The men wore casual clothes and different colored shirts to match the ladies gowns. They wore slacks. No bow ties and cummerbunds as Annie was saying to Elliot. Had to keep the surprise.
Christian wore a white shirt opened at the neck with blue slacks.
Reception and honeymoon is next; Christian will read Annie Rose's letter.
Sorry about this being so late but as I said a lot is going on right now on top of migraine headaches.
Until next week, have a great rest of the week and a wonderful weekend.