Chapter 55
Tommy's flight was on time. He had landed in Sin City. Uncle Jim had called him and asked him to come to Vegas. He wanted him here today and tomorrow. He could easily get the days off so here he was.
He and Sandy had come here after Olivia's graduation on a three-day. It had been wonderful for them. No kids, no jobs, just the two of them having fun and lots of sex. The time before that, they were in a different place. They were in town for a mutual friend's wedding. He didn't even want to come. Their marriage was in crisis and he hadn't any idea what to do.
He and Sandy had been in trouble for about a year at that juncture. Her long-standing infidelity had nearly destroyed their marriage. Even once the affair had been exposed, Sandy and her lover were both unwilling to end it. When the man's wife had enough, she went bananas. She threatened his livelihood, annihilation in the courts, financial ruin, and the loss of his kids. The son-of-a-bitch finally got out of their lives. He packed up his family and left town.
Sandy was devastated because "she loved him" and not her husband. It had gutted him to hear her say it. The blow to his ego and his heart nearly killed him. It wasn't easy going through those years with Sandy knowing that her heart and mind was elsewhere. He had stayed in the marriage for the sake of his children. He was a good father and had been the best husband he could be to a woman that craved the attention of another man.
He had vowed he would never touch her again. For more than two years they had lived in a house as nothing more than parents to their children and housemates. He had moved to the basement and from the marital bed. As they were entering the third year of their estrangement, Sandy came down to the basement wanting to assuage her sexual needs and his. She was willing to give him some pity pussy. He turned her down. His heart was still broken. Hell, he hadn't been enough for her! She'd told him point blank that she didn't know whether he or her lover was the father of their last child! He couldn't bring himself to touch her even though he knew that he still loved her.
Sandy came to him again about three months later. She wasn't there for sex and seduction. She said that their marriage had to change. He knew that but what in the hell was he supposed to do? He knew that their current situation was precarious. He had been dreading the day that she would walk out on him. Turns out that she was there to convince him that they should try therapy! She wanted to save the marriage. Why? Especially since she was desperately in love with another man! Sandy admitted she had thought she loved the guy but she was beginning to think that she didn't and possibly never had.
"What? You were in a fucking relationship with him for three years. You had unprotected sex with him. Danielle may not even be mine. You wept when he ended it. How do you expect me to believe you aren't still in love with him?"
"I loved you once Tommy with all of my heart. I think you know that. I lost my way. I made a terrible mistake. You have stayed here in this house you say for the sake of our children. That's not reason enough to continue a marriage. It sure as hell won't sustain one. You can barely look at me much less touch me because of my infidelity. I can understand that but there were some good things about our marriage. It may be salvageable. I'm willing to try if you are. If not, we should seek a divorce. Living with you as polite strangers isn't working for me."
"It's the sex, isn't it? You can't live without it can you? Your lover won't fuck you and neither will I! This is all about you Cassandra and I'm not going to play the game. Blaine wasn't your first lover outside of the marriage. There were others. So, I have to assume that you've been looking for magic dick for years. I don't want a slut for a wife. I deserve better."
"Yes you do, Tommy. Our children deserve better. I'm sorry that I hurt you so badly with my actions. I have issues. Issues from my childhood that I've buried for years. I met you and we fell in love. We had the best four years of my life. I had never been happier. Then for reasons I'm not sure about I reverted back to the person I was before I met you. You have every reason in the world to turn your back on me. I know that. You've taken more than most men would.
I want to try to save our marriage Tommy. If therapy doesn't work, at least I know that I tried. Our children deserve better that what we have right now. TJ is questioning why you live in the basement? If you want, we can have Danielle tested for paternity. Whatever you want to do. Give me a chance to see if I can be the mother our children deserve and a truthful and loving wife to you again. I'm asking you for another chance."
"Danielle has been my daughter since the day since the day you said you were pregnant again. Even after you told me of the possibility of me not being her father, have I treated or loved her any differently? She is my daughter. There won't be a paternity test."
"You have loved her just devotedly as you love our sons if not more. Thank-you for that. I hope you will think about my proposal of therapy."
After two painful two painful years of intense therapy, they crossed the road. It was a bleak two years sitting through sessions of complete heartache. Listening to his wife and finally understanding how a warped childhood had shaped her. She had been a victim of sexual abuse beginning at age eight that only ended when she left for college. Her abuser, her own father! How ironic that the two of them had lived through the sins of their fathers.
They immerged on the other side of the road two different people. It was the beginning of their third year of therapy before they entered into a sexual relationship again. The period of asexuality had cleansed their souls. Their marriage had a complete turnaround and make over. They found all the reasons that they fell in love in the first place. They fell in love again! He finally returned to the marriage bed. It had been quite a renewal. It had been almost two years now and things couldn't be better.
Sandy wanted another child, living proof of the great love they now shared. It was up for discussion but he had his wife back after years of turmoil. The sex is phenomenal! He had to remind his wife that he had been a monk for almost three years. They had three kids. Kids interfered with sex. A baby in the house would do more than interfere. He loved his wife and her happiness was paramount. They could afford another baby. He knew he was being selfish for all the wrong reasons. He didn't want to give up the hot sex that they were having practically anytime they wanted it.
He was thinking of his wife and the happy ending her delectable mouth had provided before he left Arizona. The memory had given him a boner. He sighed and said to himself "down boy." She'll be there when you get back and you know that all of her love is for you!
He looked out of the window of the plane and thought of why he was in Vegas. His uncle had called and asked him to come here. He'd sent him a plane ticket and was providing lodging. He said it was very important but there wasn't any type of emergency. He needed to have a discussion with him.
Tommy wasn't stupid. This had to do with his mother. Obviously, the man was in love with her. She was now divorced and he wanted her for himself. Their mutual affection was well disguised at home in the Caribbean but he had seen it clearly at Olivia's graduation fete.
His mother had left the graduation party on the last night in a huff. A Boston woman, one of Olivia's friends, had been hanging all over Uncle Jim all weekend. His mother had been livid and left the party. On cue Uncle Jim had left right behind her. Love was strange when it hit you. You couldn't do a damn thing about it. It's just there and you have to deal with it.
If Uncle Jim was thinking that he needed his permission to court his mother, he didn't. His father would get no loyalty from him! He was glad that his mother was free of him. The way he had treated his wife and his children was something he would never forgive nor forget. He was done with Thomas Pope!
James Lockheed was nervous. He was standing in a crowded airport waiting for his godson. Tommy was the son that he never had. He's always treated him that way. He had treated Tommy's wife with respect even after she was treating him like shit, fucking that guy right in his face. Tommy was a good man and he must have loved his wife a lot. Sandy was a tiger tart that had supposedly changed her stripes. He certainly hoped so. Tommy had been close to losing his mind over her infidelity. Somehow through hard work, determination, and therapy they had saved the marriage. They appeared to be very happy now.
Their marriage gave him tremendous hope that he and Tessa would be fine even though they were putting the cart before the horse. He wouldn't have been able to sleep in a basement for two years, spent almost another three years in therapy, all the while living with Tessa in the house. That worked for Tommy but it wasn't for him.
The vow of celibacy he had taken was only weeks old. Those few weeks were all he had in him. He taken the vow to prove to Tessa that he was more than sincere. He would only accept the pleasure and comfort of her body once she was his wife. Tomorrow she would be!
Freddy had planned a small private luncheon right after the ceremony. If Fitz and Olivia made it, there would be a total of eight people including the minister. He'd already told Freddy that he and his wife were retiring to their suite after lunch. When they would emerge was anybody's guess. He intended to make love to his wife until one them cried uncle. He knew it was crass to think about fucking 24/7. He had spent too many days adjusting his crotch the closer it got to his wedding day. Tessa had always made him hot as a fire cracker!
They'd had an unconventional, unconsummated sexual affair for almost two years. They had creative sex that James had been convinced was the best sex of his life until he had buried himself in her the night she had run from Overton Place. He couldn't wait to have those intense feelings again. Twenty-five years ago, their first true sexual encounter had resulted in a baby. He and Tessa had talked about a lot of things but not birth control. Had she gone through the change of life? He had always used condoms during his encounters but he sure as hell didn't want to use a condom with Tessa. He wanted to feel everything!
"Hey, Uncle Jim. I literally walked into you just now. You were in deep thought. I called your name several times and you still didn't hear me. Is everything alright?"
"Come here and give the old man a hug. Everything is tip top. I was just thinking of a time past is all. Was your flight okay? How's Sandy and the kids?
"They're fine and the flight was excellent. Flying first class is always excellent. It's been twice now in the last several weeks that powerful rich men have provided me with free airfare and accommodations. Fitzgerald Grant is madly in love with my sister. What's your tale to tell, Uncle Jim? What's going on?"
"I didn't want to talk about this over the phone. It's the type of thing that's spoken face to face. It's something very important to me and your mother."
"I knew it concerned Mother."
"Yes, it does concern your mother. Do you have luggage?"
"For an overnight trip? No just this bag. In my heart I knew it was about her."
"It's not just about your mother. This is about your mother and me. Let's get outside. The driver's circling around waiting for us."
"Uncle Jim, I will help you with your campaign. I know you love her and she free."
"I love your mother. I always have. There won't be a campaign, Tommy. Your mother is here with me."
"Mother's here in Vegas? I talked to her two days ago. I thought she was still in Boston."
"She was in Boston two days ago and so was I. There's the car. Come on."
Tommy was stunned! Apparently, this thing between his mother and his godfather was farther along than even he imagined. His mother was here! He sat down in the car, took a deep breath, and stared at Uncle Jim.
"Tommy, I know that you sensed something between Tessa and I. It's nothing nefarious. I love her and most importantly your mother returns my affection. We're going to be married tomorrow at noon. Your mother wanted you to be here. We're sorry that Sandy couldn't come with you. Grant is working on getting your sister out here for the ceremony."
"I can say I'm not surprised about your feelings for each other Uncle. You nor my mother have a strong poker face. So, Olivia knows that you plan to be married. Was she as shocked as I am right now?"
"Olivia knows that your mother and I are involved and she has accepted that fact. She wants very much to be here with us tomorrow. I can imagine your mind is swirling trying to figure out how Tessa and I have gotten from yearning looks, to a full-blown relationship, to an impending marriage. There's a simple answer to that question Tommy. I've always been in love with your mother."
"Always?"
"Even before she married your father. Your mother is waiting for us back at the Bellagio. We'll talk more there."
"Damn, I thought I was so smart figuring out that the two of you were connected in some way. There was always something even back on the islands but you never gave away anything. Because of Father, I'm sure. He will blow a gasket when he finds out about your relationship."
"Let him blow a gasket. If he dares to approach your mother, who will be my wife when we return to the Caymans, it will be at his own peril!"
"I'm grateful that you love her and will protect her Uncle. She's been through a lot with my father, much more than anyone knows. I can't wait to see her and let her know that I approve of your relationship. You have been more father to me and Olivia than Thomas Pope could ever hope to be. Thanks for loving me and Caro as your own."
"I've always loved you two as my own. There's never been any distinction and there never will be. You and Olivia are my children. I hope you will always remember that. Here we are. Let's go see your mother. She's very anxious to see you."
Tessa flew into Tommy's arms. She was glad to see him. He was her first born and they had a special bond. Sadly, when he left for college in the US, he never returned. He had met Cassandra and fell in love with her. Thomas was appalled that his son had taken up with a foreigner and she was white! When they were dating, he forbade Tommy to bring her to Overton Place. When he actually married her, Thomas disowned him as a son! As James had always done, he took up the slack of Thomas Pope. He helped the young couple as they were starting out. He gave them the down payment for their first home. James had always been a father to Tommy.
She was going to tell Tommy the truth today. Right now, in fact. There was no need to beat around the bush. Again, it was her story to tell. James was there for backup and support. She was nervous but not nearly as nervous as she had been two days ago. Telling her story of domestic abuse and relaying the fact that Olivia wasn't the daughter of Thomas Pope hadn't been easy. The fallout hadn't been at all what she had thought it would be. Unfortunately, she now had to repeat the same story to her son. This was a breach for Tommy as well. He had lived a lie also. Olivia was his half-sister!
Tessa had said she was going to get straight to the heart of the matter as soon as Tommy arrived. She wanted all issues hashed out today. She was getting married tomorrow at noontime. The thought of marrying Jimmy made her very happy. She was hoping to have the love and support of both of her children tomorrow.
"Tommy, I'm so glad that you're here. We talked very little during Olivia's graduation weekend. There was so much going on. It was good to see you and Sandy again. It's obvious that your marriage is thriving. A marriage that has been to hell and back, somehow you two were able to pull it back together. I'm proud of you Tommy. Most men would've walked away with what you faced. You stayed and you did the hard work. Thankfully, you have your wife and family back. I'm sorry this trip was asked of you at such short notice. I imagine that you wished Sandy could've come with you."
"Sandy sends her love and so does the brats. I have some homemade cards for you and Uncle Jim. The older two are still mad that they didn't get to attend Aunt Caro's graduation. I assured them that their two weeks in the islands next summer would make up for it."
"It will be great to see them again. Next year I will get to spend as much time with them as I want. They can actually spend time with me at my new home. Freedom is so wonderful. What did Jimmy tell you? I don't want to double up on anything but I want to be thorough."
"Only that the two of you are in a relationship and that you intend to marry. It's shocking news, almost. Uncle Jim was very clever disguising his feelings for you but sometimes when he thought no one was looking, I was! I actually thought it was a case of wishful thinking. It was obvious that he loved me and Olivia. Why would he not love you from afar? He assured me not less than thirty minutes ago that he has always loved you. Even before you married my father. That's quite a revelation."
"It is to a degree. You see, I have loved James just as long. I want to tell you our story the from beginning. At times it's a very grave story but you have to hear it. Come sit beside me. I will share with you the truth. I must look you in the eyes and tell you the truth of my marriage."
Tessa told her story from the very beginning to its end. It was the exact same story she had told Olivia. She left nothing out. Nothing was candy coated. It was as difficult with Tommy as it had been with Olivia. Learning that your mother was liar and a schemer had to put a lot of questions in one's mind. Tessa trudged on with her story. Tommy sat through it all seemingly unperturbed.
She told him about the intimacy she shared with James before she was married. She had married Thomas Pope as a virgin in name only. She had married him knowing she loved another man. She described her years of sexual servitude to Thomas Pope in detail. She told him how his father had forbidden her to use birth control. She told him how she had protected herself from pregnancy. She described the instances of domestic violence.
During the fifth year of the marriage there was a fierce battle because she refused to sexually submit to him. He struck her and for the first time she fought him back fiercely. When it was evident to Thomas that she wouldn't submit, he banished her from Overton Place. Instead of running to her family, this time she had gone back to her lover of all those years ago. When James had threatened to go after Thomas after seeing evidence of brutality to her. Tessa had stopped him the only way that she knew.
They had resumed their affair for one night. Unfortunately, depending on your point of view, Tessa didn't use birth control during her night of intimacy with James. They had made love throughout the night. Her own husband hadn't touched her for months. Tessa reveled in the night she spent with James. It had been everything and more. Still, she had to leave him come the morning. Her husband had given her an ultimatum for her return to Overton Place. He had promised to take her son from her if she were late or chose not to return.
Thomas Pope was a horrible man! Her son was afraid of him. She couldn't leave her son there with a monster. She gotten up from a night of love with one man to return to a house of horrors with another one. James couldn't believe that she would lie down with him and return to a loveless marriage. He was livid with her. He promised if she left his bed this time they were done. His words to her were cruel but deserved. She was all alone in her despair. Her family disappointed that she allowed Thomas to abuse her had washed their hands of her. James called her a whore that was sleeping with two men. He told her to get out. They were finished.
She returned home and stayed in her loveless marriage for the next twenty-five years regretting what she had done. James moved on with his life. It was Olivia and her love story with Fitzgerald Grant that moved Tessa to act. There was nothing for her in the marriage. She was a trophy wife to take to office parties, banquets, and seafood boils. When the women that he cavorted with weren't available, she became a vessel for lust. It wasn't a life. It was an existence.
The turn of events with Olivia and Fitzgerald Grant opened her eyes. If her own daughter could take a chance on love, so could she. She left her abusive husband and sought a divorce. Her husband fought her tooth and nail. Only when she threatened to expose the true nature of their marriage, the degree of his adultery, and cruelty did he finally agree to the divorce.
From the time she had walked from Overton Place her plan had been to regain her lost love. Once she was divorced, she placed herself directly in the path of James Lockheed. Their meetings were not at all what she had hoped for. The man openly avoided her and seemed uninterested. The few times they had come together were not at all conciliatory!
Olivia's graduation would put them in the same town in close proximity to each other. She intended to confront James with her true feelings for him. Once in Boston it had been her hope to try to salvage their relationship. When they finally did talk, she found out that both of them were on the same page. James wanted her back as much as she wanted him. She could walk back into his life and they could resume where they had left off.
There was one problem. Tessa had been holding a twenty-five-year-old secret. The night she had spent with James Lockheed had included a night of spontaneous and unprotected sex. Before that night It had been at least three months since her husband had summoned her to the marriage bed. Six weeks after her night with James her courses were late and she was experiencing nausea. She knew that she was pregnant and it wasn't possible that the child she carried belonged to her husband.
She was forced into a plan of deception to save herself and her children. She enticed Thomas Pope to the marriage bed and passed her child off as his. As it turned out Tessa had divine deception come into play. Olivia herself played a part in the deception. Her daughter arrived nine months to the day of her conception. However, she was small and undersized. She weighed in at only four pounds, two ounces. Amazingly she was classified as preemie. Tessa's lie lived on.
"Olivia is James' biological child. He knows the truth and so does Olivia. I wanted you to hear this revelation from me. When Olivia was three, I sent DNA samples from her and Thomas Pope to the US for analysis. What I knew to be true was confirmed.
I'm not proud of my deception and actions all those years ago. In my mind I was protecting both you and Olivia. Thomas Pope is an evil and dangerous man. The truth would have triggered much more evil from him. What are you thinking Tommy? You don't seem daunted at all by the revelation that Olivia isn't a Pope."
"Olivia is my sister, end of story! And Mother I couldn't be prouder of you than I am at this moment. You've told me some things that I knew in my heart were true before you spoke them. Even as a child I could sense the wrongness of our situation. You and Father were wrong! The fact that I carry the genes of Thomas Pope and Olivia doesn't is irrelevant. Olivia will always be "Caro" my little sister. I imagine that Olivia is relieved to know she's not related to Thomas Pope.
What's very clear to me is that you and Uncle Jim have sustained a love for one another that has been tested by the hands of time. Reclaiming lost love isn't easy. I know that very well. I'm happy the two of you have gotten back together. And most importantly you're grabbing your happiness and acting on it. Mother, you have been through so much. Yet you sit here reclaiming your life. Divorcing my father was one of your best decisions.
I can remember flashes of the violence against you. I can remember him striking you, pulling you by your hair. It's just bits and pieces I remember as a child. As a youth and a teen, I can remember more. You would scream at me to go to my room and lock the door. I did that for years. The day I said no more was a reckoning for me. I fought him and I won, I dared him to hit you again. I swear I was going to kill him with my bare hands! I despised my father. You were much too good for him. Your association with Uncle Jim has my blessing. I hope you know that."
"I do know that, Tommy. It breaks my heart that you were witness to such ugliness as a child. I have so many regrets about the early and later years of my marriage. You deserved a better mother. I'm so sorry."
"Mother, you were in very horrid circumstances. How could I blame you? I'm happy that you survived and are moving on with your life. I'm even happier that you now have a man that will love, cherish, and see that you are happy.
Uncle Jim, I've told you that you have my blessing and I mean it. I'm glad that you plan to marry my mother without delay. Your commitment to her is valiant. On top of that, you have always loved and cared for me and Olivia as if we were your own children all of our lives. You were more of a father to us than Thomas Pope ever was.
When my father disowned me, you didn't miss a beat. You stood up for me at my wedding when he forbade my own mother to attend. You made sure that Olivia was there to support me. You have always been a father to me. I'm grateful for your presence in our lives. The fact that you're marrying Mother tomorrow is a blessing. I wouldn't miss it for the world!"
"Tommy, you have grown into a fine young man. Any man would be proud to call you son and I am. Your mother is everything to me. I intend to take her on a journey of revival and renewal. She's had so little joy in her life because of Thomas Pope. I'm going to change that. 'Love and happiness' is our theme song. We are headed for a fine life Tessa. We have a son and a daughter that I'm very, very proud of."
The three of them continued to talk on until their dinner reservation. At dinner they continued on the same theme of love and happiness. Tommy talked of his marriage that had finally settled on a solid foundation after years of turmoil. The grandchildren were great and they were dying to see their grandmother and Uncle Jim again. His kids loved Uncle Jim just as he did. He remembered just recently he had heard TJ and a friend discussing grandparents. TJ told them about his grand Caribbean vacations with his Granny and Uncle Jim. He had spoken very candidly.
"I don't really have a grandfather but I do have a grandmother, an Aunt Caro, and an Uncle Jim. Uncle Jim is like a grandfather. We live in his house when we visit where my daddy grew up. He gives me, my brother, and sister the best presents ever!"
James Lockheed had provided a haven for he and his family when they returned to the Caymans. At his island retreat he had doted on his entire family. He, his mother, Olivia, and his family were able to be a real family at The Cove. He was able to entertain his friends there.
He called himself godfather but Uncle Jim always been more than that. He had always treated he and Olivia as if they were the kids he never had. They were shown nothing but love and respect. Olivia was his true daughter with his blood flowing through her veins however even now he called him his son.
His mother was about to marry this fine man and he was thankful. Seeing his mother so animated and happy meant the world to him. When he had left the islands to make his life elsewhere it was his only choice at the time. He had tempered the base treatment of his father toward his mother for years before he left but it still had gone on behind closed doors. He chose to leave his homeland rather than commit patricide which he saw as the next step in the story. He had always wanted an opportunity to completely close the door on Thomas Pope. Tomorrow he would.
They were in the air. Flying time was four hours ten minutes. Olivia had gotten on board, showered, and fallen asleep in Fitz' arms. She was tired. She had worked all night. Fitz slept peacefully beside her. They would land in Las Vegas ETA nine-thirty am PST. That would give them a couple of hours to greet the family and get ready for the wedding.
The wedding couple were up and moving about. James had slept soundly through the night but Tessa had spent much of the night wide awake. Her most fervent dream was coming true. She was marrying James Lockheed today. He should have become her husband some thirty years ago but their love was thwarted. They both had foolishly allowed Thomas Pope to come between them. Second chances were rare and they had been given one.
"Tessa, you tossed and turned most of the night. Did you get any sleep at all? What's on your mind? What are you worried about? Tommy is here and he's on our side. Olivia will be here soon. Why couldn't you sleep?"
"Things have aligned perfectly for us. The truth is out and our children have fully accepted it. You love me and have asked be to become your wife. I shouldn't have a care in the world. I am happy Thomas. My heart is of full of joy and happiness but I find myself waiting for something or someone to spoil it. Every time I closed my eyes last night, I would dream of Thomas Pope showing up to our wedding. That's one fear that I have.
Another is that today we will embark into true intimacy again. It's been a long time for us. Twenty-five years in fact. That's a long time Jimmy. I'm not young and nubile anymore. There are wrinkles and stretch marks. I'm a woman in my fifties. I don't want to disappoint you, Jimmy. I want to make you happy."
"Tessa, you always did think too much. Thomas Pope will not show up here. He hasn't any reason to. And if he did, security is in place to keep him from us. Our marriage is going to go off without a hitch with our children as witnesses. We've been blessed in that respect. As for the wedding night jitters that you are having, let me tell you, they are for naught. It has been a long time for us, too long. Remember that our experience is going to be about love as well as sex. My greatest expectation is to make you my wife. Everything after that comes with the caveat forever and ever.
Sweetheart, you could never disappoint me. You are still the most beautiful woman that I know. You have shown me all I've been missing. Your body is just as I remember it. You've taken very good care of yourself. You still look like a young girl Tessa. Your breasts are firm and supple. You look like a model in your swimsuits. Every temptation that you put before me was a test of wills. Thank the Lord above that you decided to help me keep my vow. God knows how much I have wanted you. Only a few more hours and I promise to alleviate all your fears."
"You're right. I'm being silly. Noon will be here before we know it. It's so nice of Freddy to send someone over to do my hair and make-up. I want to look beautiful for you Jimmy."
"Tessa, you could wear a potato sack and I wouldn't care. All I want to hear is, I do! When I hear those words, I'll be the happiest man on the planet. You want to order room service for breakfast?"
"No way I could eat anything this morning. I'm too excited. If you want breakfast; call Tommy you two could grab a bite from somewhere."
"I think that "small" luncheon that Freddy's having for us is going to be my first meal of the day. I've been to one of Freddy's small luncheons. Plus, he's pulled a Caribbean specialty chef to put together the wedding feast. Our marriage is going to be a small family affair but I want it to be special for you Tessa."
"You know what is going to be special? That I'm marrying the right guy this time. The fact that you wanted to make things right between us means so much. I love you James Lockheed and marrying you today is going to be one of the happiest days of my life. When I gave birth to our daughter, I was thrilled because I knew that she was yours but saddened because of the lie I had put forth to bring her safely into this world. Never in my wildest imagination did I see this day coming. The two of getting back together and starting a new life. We are to be married today and our children will stand with us. Today is the most special day of my life.
What time are Olivia and Fitz expected?"
"Not for another hour. Why don't we get up, shower, and get ready to start our day. The stylist and the make-up person will arrive at ten-thirty. I know you have a dress that you plan to wear but you could change your mind. This stylist is bringing "suitable" wedding attire for a bride. You may see something that you like."
"You've seen my bridal ensemble. I had planned to wear that fancy dress with the rhinestones embroidered into bodice. You admired it the night we reconciled."
"You looked positively radiant in that dress. I loved it. No matter what you wear I intend to have it off of you moments after we leave the luncheon. Make no mistake about that. Your ensemble is important but the most important thing of the afternoon will be when the both of us repeat our vows. We will retreat to the small gallery for a short celebration and then I will have you all to myself."
"James we can't be too obvious when we leave our luncheon celebration. What will everyone think?"
"That we are two people in love and I want to have sex with my wife. That will be the truth, Tessa. I have always desired you above all women. Thirty odd years haven't changed that. There's a vow and it's there for a reason. Still, you seemed to have forgotten about us, how we were, how we're going to be."
"I haven't forgotten. You forget that on several occasions I tried to make you break your sacred vow. You aren't alone in your wants and desires.
"So, you did. You had mercy on me and hid your assets to save me from myself. In a couple of hours, we will be married. We will make love right here in this bed. I can hardly wait in the meantime let me remind you what we have to look forward to. Sit up and lift up your arms. I want you out of that granny gown."
"James, you asked me to wear this gown."
"I did. Your body was driving me crazy. The memories of us together were going to break me."
She sat up and he lifted the gown from her body and threw it to the floor. She was naked and she was beautiful. He stared at her like the starved man he was. Tessa felt vulnerable under such intense scrutiny. She lifted up her hands to cover her breasts.
"Don't! This is just a short exercise to elicit memories to remind you why we will leave our wedding luncheon sooner rather than later. We don't care if it's obvious or not. We are two mature people with children and grandchildren that have missed a lifetime together but not after today. Lie back down."
As soon as she had laid down, he got on his knees beside her. He still watched her intensely. Tessa's eyes followed James on the bed. He looked magnificent in his black pajama pants. His abdomen was untouched by fat. It was obvious he had taken care of himself. He was muscular and well defined. She knew all this. She hadn't been a nun these two weeks. She had tried to seduce him. They had kissed and fondled each other intimately. They were waiting for today. He reached out to cup a breast with one hand while the other traced a line to her mound.
"James, what are you doing?"
"Creating a memory." His fingers found their target. They gently rubbed back and forth across an area soaked in wetness.
Tessa's head fell back, she whispered his name, and her legs opened involuntarily.
"Reach inside and touch me, Tessa. Your hands always did confound me."
She didn't hesitate. She reached inside the silky black pants and found him hard as the cliffs of White Rock. She gently began to glide her hand up and down in a motion that caused him to whisper her name.
"Tessa, you sweet, sweet girl. I love you so much. Now do you remember why we are leaving our own wedding luncheon so soon?"
"James, how could you think I could forget such a thing? I would never forget how it was between us. The children will know…"
"The children will know that they we love and desire each other. They will understand that we've been apart for years and that we intend to burn up the sheets."
"Jimmy, promise me you want talk like that in front of the children."
"Tessa, those children are adults and they know about burning sheets. What they don't know is that their mother is a firebrand beneath the sheets."
"I've never claimed to be a saint. I loved having sex with you. It was as natural as breathing."
"Sex is as natural as breathing. I wanted you to remember."
"So, you haven't any intention of breaking your vow even though it's obvious that I'm wet as can be and you are harder than a piece of steel?"
"Marriage first this time. It's what you deserve Tessa. You've been through hell because of my lack of sound judgement. I can't change any of what has happened, it's done. What I can do is love and honor you for the rest of our lives. In just a few short hours I will pledge to do so."
Tessa shifted in the bed and raised her arms. He fell into her arms leaving him lying atop of her in an intimate embrace. The fabric of his pajama pants the only thing separating them. Their eyes met filled with love and desire.
"I love you so much Jimmy. I can't wait to married to you. How much time must we commit to stay at our reception?"
"I say we have that delicious meal I know Freddy has had prepared. You need a formal introduction to Freddy and Patrice. We thank the minister, tip him, let our kids know just how much we appreciate their presence, a special thanks to Fitzgerald, and we are right back here to make some brand-new memories."
"Excellent plan, Mr. Lockheed."
"Fitz you let me sleep all the way here? We were supposed to log in some more Mile High hours."
"And we will, on the way back home tonight. You were tired. I could see it. By the time I finished that call with Drey you were sound asleep. I didn't have the heart to awaken you. Once we leave here this afternoon we'll be in the air for five to six hours. Surely, we can ring up some Mile High hours then. I promise that I won't forget.
Are you hungry? James says there will be a wedding luncheon immediately following the ceremony. He has a friend here from the Caymans that's actually going to be his Best Man. He's also providing rooms for the family today and tomorrow. Since we're leaving after the reception, I took the liberty of refusing the offer."
"Of course. We have to get back. How long have we been on the ground?"
"Maybe fifteen or twenty minutes. It won't be much longer. I saw someone come aboard. Once everything is reviewed, we're off to the Bellagio. James says there's a room for us in the suite we can use to change. Your mother wants to have you close. Tommy's staying on the premises as well. I have everything I need in one bag, what about you?"
"It's not often one gets to attend the wedding of your parents. I chose that beautiful Stella McCartney dress that you bought me. It's beautiful but simple and elegant. I wouldn't want to outshine the bride."
"I know the bride is your mother but you would outshine anyone Olivia. You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. In that dress you will be absolutely gorgeous. You know you could've had another dress especially for this occasion if you wanted one. Remember we are sharing, everything."
"I've already had three shopping sprees Fitz. You're spoiling me rotten. I have a room in my house filled with nothing but new things. Not a closet, but a room."
"I love buying things for you Olivia. The joy I see on your face every time I give you something makes me extremely happy."
"Speaking of happiness and joy, thanks for making this happen. I'm so happy to be here. This is a big step for my mother and Uncle Jim, my father, as well. To think that they have loved each other all of this time. They have yearned to be together for more than a quarter of a century, even before that really. I can't imagine ever losing you now that I've found you. This is a very happy day for my parents"
"It is. I'm glad to be included."
"Fitz, you are their son-in-law in all ways that matter. We're engaged and will be married in the near future. You'll be involved in all family matters from now on. That's the way of Caribbean people."
Just then the captain came across the intercom system. "We are cleared Mr. Grant. You and Miss Pope may exit the aircraft at your leisure and your car is waiting. Our planned return flight to Boston is scheduled for two-thirty Vegas time. Will that accommodate your plans for today, sir?"
"Very well captain. We will head up front shortly."
"They're here Tessa. They're leaving the airport now. How are you feeling after being so thoroughly pampered this morning?"
"That spa is decadent Jimmy. I feel wonderful. Do you really like this style to my hair? The style is amazing. My skin feels tingly all over. My manicure and pedicure are perfection. I feel like a royal princess."
"Never a princess. You are a queen Tessa. I promise to treat you like one every day of our lives."
"I know that you will and that makes me so happy. Our daughter and our son are here James, to witness us marry. We are favored and blessed."
"Someone is at the door. From what I been told I may not see you again before our nuptials. They're following the age-old tradition. The next time I see you in your wedding ensemble will be in the chapel.
I love you, Tessa. Please don't let anything deter you from the altar. I'll be waiting."
Fitz and Olivia arrived at the penthouse suite. James Lockheed greeted them at the door himself. His very good friend Freddy Green was with him. Introduction were made. Olivia was eager to see her mother. She literally ran to the room where her mother was getting ready. She was flabbergasted as to how youthful her mother looked. She knew that her mother was a beautiful woman but as a woman in love and marrying the man that held her heart; she simply glowed.
"Momma, you look beautiful, stunning. Uncle Jim will fall in love with you all over again. I'm so happy for the both of you. The two of you deserve this moment. I was able to make an exchange of duty and Fitz was able to fly me here. He's such a kind and generous man Momma. I believe you now have one in Uncle Jim."
"I know I have one in James. He's kind, generous, and honorable. He's a man made of the same stuff as your Fitzgerald. His love is reserved for me alone. It's a great feeling is it not?"
"It is. I can tell you are happy."
"I'm very happy. Tommy's here and he knows the complete truth. He still stands with us Olivia just as you have. Having you and Tommy here means a lot to me and James. He has loved you both as his own. He has always considered you both his children Olivia. You, Tommy, and the grandkids were his heirs even before he knew you were his daughter. That is how much he has loved all of us over the years. Please embrace him as your father Olivia. I denied him a familial bond with you. Remember, the sins of the mother belong to the mother."
"I have embraced him, Momma. Right at this moment it's hard to call him anything other than Uncle Jim. I've been calling him that since I could talk. But he is my father and I honor him for that. Maybe one day I will actually call him father."
"I understand, Olivia and so does your father. He simply wants to love you and be part of your life. I noticed that you called me momma just now. I don't know if you even realized it. It's been a long time since I heard you call me momma. It warms my heart Caro. I'm so glad you're here to see me marry your father. We should've been a family so long ago."
"The past is gone. Today starts anew for you and my father. Grab on to that and leave everything else behind. What are you wearing today?"
"I have plans to wear that beautiful dress I wore to your graduation banquet but James has seen me in that before. The stylists that's here is trying to get me to choose from three choices he has brought here. Two lovely dresses and a bedazzling pantsuit ensemble. I'm very tempted. I want to look beautiful and sexy for James. What do you think?"
"I think you should fly free today. Wear what you believe will most please your husband. You want him to desire you above all things today. I think Uncle Jim would be bedazzled by whatever you wear. Your dress from the House of Andrade is beautiful Momma. It's very sexy. It compliments your figure."
"You're right Olivia, I want to be comfortable but most of all desirable. Your father, James, took one look at me in that dress and he said he lost his ability to speak. I think I've decided. A touch of my homeland as I marry in America today. It would please my old friend Gloria to learn of my choice. Would you please help me into to my wedding dress!"
It was eleven-forty-five. They were assembled in the elegant chapel. Red and white roses were everywhere. James was talking to Tommy and Fitzgerald Grant. Mr. Green was hovering about. The pianist/vocalist had been providing an excellent cache of island instrumentals for the last half hour. James' eyes had gone to the door of the chapel repeatedly even though he knew Tessa wouldn't present herself until noon.
Freddy's wife sat on the side reserved for friends. Fitz and Tommy would sit on the other. The air in the room was electric. The wedding was about to start. Tommy headed to the back of the chapel and out the door. The pianist began playing a jazzy reggae-type version of 'Her comes the bride.' Once the chapel door reopened Olivia was standing there. She was a vision in the McCartney flock. It stopped about three inches above the knees. There was a scooped neckline. It was simple yet very elegant. A string of pearls was around her neck. The matching earring were in her lobes. Her hair was long and hung to one side. She wore a pair of leather Louboutin's almost the same color as her dress. She carried a bouquet of red and white roses.
She walked in smiling as regal as a queen. Her smile lit up even more as she and Fitz made direct eye contact. Fitz felt his heart lurch. One day it would be him waiting at the alter for this woman. He didn't doubt it at all. He had known that she was his all those months ago in the Grand Caymans. He had pursued her and now here they were in a full-fledged relationship. She held his heart!
The music changed from the here comes the bride theme to a rich and mellow intro of the Joe Cocker hit "You Are So Beautiful." Tessa Adderley began to walk down the aisle on the arm of her son. She was a strikingly beautiful woman and her eyes and smiles were for only one man. James Lockheed couldn't have been happier. Finally, he and Tessa would be bound together as they should have been years ago. The pianist/vocalist and his rendition of this classic love song was perfection.
Tommy bought his mother to stand beside the man she had loved for several decades. Olivia was handed Tessa's bridal bouquet and Tommy placed his mother's hands within the hands of James Lockheed. He brought her hands to his lips and whispered, "I love you, Tessa."
Tessa whispered back, "I love you too."
Tessa had the choice of several designer options as her wedding ensemble. In the end, with input from her daughter she chose instead to go with the beautiful one-piece lace frock she had brought with her from the Caymans. Tessa had a beautiful body and she wanted her husband-to-be to see that on this day. The sleeves hung off the shoulder exposing a delicate and fetching bosom. The hemline was over the knees. A beautiful rhinestone encrusted heart was sewn over the area of her heart. That one embellishment had made the dress perfect for the occasion. Olivia had provided the something borrowed giving her mother her diamond heart necklace and earrings to wear. She was a vision.
They had decided on the traditional wedding vows so the ceremony proceeded quickly. In a matter of minutes, they both had repeated I do.
"By the power invested in me by the state of Nevada, I do solemnly swear that you are man and wife. You may now kiss your bride."
James Lockheed pulled his wife into his arms and kissed her passionately. The attendees were all clapping and smiling. Everyone was very happy for the couple. Freddy announced that there would be a short photo op. Afterwards the couple and their guests would retire across the hall to a small dining area.
The photographer took the wedding party photos and they were off to the wedding luncheon. The party of eight sat at one table. The bride and groom sat at the head of the table with their children at their sides. Fitz, the pianist, the minister and his wife completed the table. The table was blessed and guests dined on some delicious foods with a Caribbean flair. A playlist of current and past love songs played softly in the background.
The couple themselves were participating and enjoying the music and table banter but they were both eager to return to their suite of rooms. They'd had eyes only for each other since saying I do. They had foregone dancing. They could dance later if they chose to do so.
"Olivia and Fitz, I understand you two will head back to the east coast within the hour. Your mother and I are so glad you were able to get her here, Fitz. It meant a great deal to both of us. Thank-you."
"You're very welcome. If there was a way, I couldn't let Olivia miss this. This is a momentous occasion. Again, my sincere congratulations to you both."
"Momma, you look so happy. I hardly know what to say."
"I am happy. This is a great day. Freddy, thank-you so much for all of your efforts on our behalf. James and I are indebted to you. And I'm so pleased to make your acquaintance Alicia. When you and Freddy are next in the Caymans, you must stay with us."
"Yes, you must old man. We would be so glad to see you. You have outdone yourself. Our wedding went off without a hitch, thanks to you. The food is delicious. My appreciation to the chef. Mr. Alcaraz your music was beautiful.
Tommy, you will be here until what time tomorrow?"
"My flight leaves a twelve-thirty tomorrow afternoon. Everything was wonderful you two. I couldn't be happier about your marriage. Give me a call tomorrow morning if you would like to do breakfast."
"Will do. Here comes the wedding cake. Come, Tessa, let's cut the first slice and allow our guest to taste this concoction."
They cut the cake officially ending the wedding luncheon for them. James held Tessa's hand continuously as they said their good-byes. They were starting their honeymoon in Vegas. When and where it would end was entirely up to his bride. They were on no one's time schedule but their own. They left the room and headed for the penthouse elevator. As soon as the elevator door closed James backed her up against the wall.
"I can't wait to get you out of that dress. I can't wait to kiss you everywhere."
"I want you out of those clothes. I want to kiss you too, everywhere."
"You were a beautiful bride. You're an even more beautiful wife."
The doors opened. They were in their suite. James hit the no-assess button which literally shut them off from the rest of the world. That was what they wanted in this moment. It was what they needed. Their lives had been ransacked and their world thrown from its axis by one wrong move all those years ago. By the grace of a loving God, they had been given a second chance to rebuild their lives and strengthen their lost love.
They had a visible reminder that their love had been real. They had a true love child, Olivia. Tommy was theirs in spirit. That was all that mattered. James had fostered and loved Tommy as his own since he was born. They had grandkids to love and dote on. Through Olivia and Fitz there would be more. They had so much to be grateful for.
"I love you Tessa Lockheed with all my heart. You look delectable in that dress. It was a perfect choice. I could imagine every voluptuous curve beneath it. Sitting through that meal, the toasting, and the gaiety was hard. You can't imagine how much I want you, Tess. Even before I left the islands all I could think of was you. I wanted you back so badly. Knowing that you were free again, it kept me from madness. I promised myself no matter was said or done. I would never give up on you again."
"James, this is what I have prayed for and dreamed of for the longest time. You and I reunited and loving each other again. I'm so happy right now. Promise me we will never be separated again, never!"
"Never!"
He backed her against the closest wall. He began kissing her passionately. Their tongues mated feverishly. His hands roamed freely over her body. They were on her breasts, back, buttocks. He started to push the fine lace fabric up to her waist.
"Turn around Tessa. I need you out of that dress."
He unzipped the dress, nudged it off of her shoulders, and it fell to the floor. She stepped out of it. Tessa didn't have on a bra. The dress had its own. All that was underneath that dress was her something blue. The blue silken thong provided a dazzling view of Tessa's ass. He came up behind her and molded his body to hers. He reached around her to grab her breasts. He massaged and kneaded first one and then the other. His other hand cupped her sex. Tessa's hands weren't idle. She had reached behind her and had unbuckled his belt and was attacking his fly trying to unleash him.
In the meantime, his probing fingers had pushed aside a minor barrier to the entrance he sought. He found her slick and wet, again. His middle finger sunk deep inside of her. He started a provocative motion. Tessa stopped her pursuits. Intense pleasure engulfed her. It had been so long. She couldn't help herself. Her response was to convulse around the intruding digit loss in passion. Her body lulled against the wall, her breathing and heart rate racing. When her thoughts were once again coherent, she spoke.
"Jimmy, oh my god!"
"My darling Tessa, apparently, I can still make you come, just like that! And that pleases me my dear wife."
Tessa was momentarily speechless. Her body had imploded at the mere intimate touch of her husband. It had been several decades since she had experienced sexual arousal and stimulation, still she hadn't expected such an intense reaction. She didn't know what to say.
"Jimmy, I don't want to disappoint you. I don't know…"
"Don't over think this babe. You can never disappoint me. I want all of your responses, whatever they are, they're precious to me. You're supposed to respond to your husband. Do you think that your touch has not affected me? You were just not as direct. Come let's go to bed."
There was still a great deal of sexual tension in the air. They had continued undressing in companiable silence. Each one watching the other very pleased with what they saw. James was still extremely aroused and he didn't try to hide it. Tessa was secretly thrilled. Yes, she had come at his first touch but she wanted so much more. They had shared such blinding passion as they had learned to please each other without actual intercourse. Those things hadn't defined their relationship, it refined it. They had loved each other so much. Then they had screwed it all up!
James watched as Tessa stepped out of the thong and he was amazed. His wife's body was still perfect. Where were the signs that she had birthed two children? He'd felt her up these past weeks because he could help himself and then just this morning he had lost his mind for a few minutes.
Tessa had to be reminded of them, the way they were. How could she forget how they craved each other night and day. Oral sex, they had learned was deeply satisfying to them both. Mutual masturbation was delightful. He had spilled himself all over her body and Tessa was there for it all. A common practice amongst their peers back in the day was "backdoor" sex. It preserved virginity and avoided pregnancy. It was left out of their repertoire.
They were completely naked when they finally laid down on the enormous king size bed. They turned to each other their limbs entwined. Their eyes met and held.
"Tessa, it hasn't been decades for me but it may as well had been. Never have I wanted and desired a woman the way I have you. The first night that you laid me you made me promise to preserve your virginity for your husband. I believed that eventually I would be that man. I had every intention to become that man.
It was a great experiment, the ways we learned to please each other without the benefit of intercourse. In fact, those eighteen months were the best non-sex I ever had. It proves the point Tessa that sex between two people is an expression of love and giving no matter how it's done. It also proves the point that we were fortunate during those months that a pregnancy didn't happen. We were foolish enough to think that we were practicing safe sex because I spent myself outside of your body. Oral copulation doesn't make babies either. My point is I exposed you to the pleasures of flesh. Just because I didn't break through a maidenhead doesn't mean I didn't deflower you. You did lose your virginity to me Tessa.
I should have spoken up at your marriage to Thomas and admitted that you were already taken. You were mine, in every way that counted. It's why you couldn't respond to Thomas, Tessa. Your body, your responses had been geared to and for me. I taught you what I wanted and you gave it me. You were a spectacular lover.
The night that we conceived Olivia all my dreams were answered. To finally possess you and make you mine. I had craved it so much. That night, it was unbelievable! If you remember, I was insatiable. How many times did I come inside of you? Too numerous to count in a five or six-hour span."
"I remember that night very vividly. You were remarkable, Jimmy. That night was the best night of my life. I've relived it so many times. Today is real. I don't have to relive it. You're here with me. And best of all, you are my husband."
"I am. And you are my wife."
Their wedding night officially began with a kiss that was sweet and tender. Then it became hot and demanding. His hands roamed and so did those of his wife. He feasted on her breasts before making a beeline to taste her. Tessa was beyond words when his attention to detail brought her to climax again. She opened her eyes in a sexual haze. She had never been timid with James in the bedroom. She pulled him back up to her lips. She ran her tongue over his mouth. She tasted herself. Tessa smiled at him. It was a siren's smile. Her hands reached for him and slowly began to stroke him from base to tip. She knew what her husband liked and she was prepared to give it to him.
"Tell me what you want Jimmy."
James Lockheed looked at his wife. She was just as beautiful and sexy as he remembered. He was glad they had waited. She was his and he had all the time in the world. What had he not dreamed about when it came to Tessa Langley? He wanted everything! Now, he had a lifetime. His big hands framed her face. It had been a long time. He needed to be inside of her.
"I love you, Tess. I need you so much. Open up and let me in."
Her hands moved him where he wanted to be. He placed his forehead upon hers. His surge forward rocked them both. James fought the urge to hold nothing back, to seek immediate satisfaction. Tessa responded to the intrusion by whispering sweet endearments in his ear. Her body quickly got in sync with his movements. Neither one of them had forgotten nothing. His response was forceful and steady. His wife felt like heaven.
This was what he had waited most of his adult life for, to have this woman again, to cherish her as his wife. He had seen to his wife first, giving her pleasure. He had imagined what this first encounter would be like and he wasn't disappointed. His wife fascinated him as much as she ever had. Whether he could wait for her to explode again was debatable. Twenty-five years between sexual encounters with this woman was a long stretch. And this was Tessa, she still felt like velvet surrounding his dick. He was drowning in sensations
"Tess, this first time may not be all that you remember. I'm too needy to prolong…"
"Take what you need husband. We have a lifetime to fulfill all our needs and desires."
The honeymoon of James and Tessa Lockheed was in full swing.
