Moondance

It was a warm Saturday afternoon in mid-June, about a month later, and Maddie was standing in their living room, holding a small notebook in one hand and a pen in the other. Her hair was pulled up and she was wearing a rose colored maternity t-shirt and a pair of leggings. Little towheaded Alex was sitting on a play mat in front of the fireplace, banging happily on a small toy piano and babbling, filling the room with a cacophony of notes and noises. David, wearing a fitted white t-shirt, jeans, and a baseball cap, was holding a screwdriver and a tape measure – and looked both tired and a bit annoyed.

Maddie: "Kitchen cabinet latches – check. Oven door latch – check. Refrigerator door latch – check. Dishwasher latch – check. Fireplace gate – check. Baby gate for the spiral staircase – check. Okay, David, just a few more outlet covers and then we should be done. "

David: "We've been at this all day, Maddie. I never knew we had so many outlets in the house."

Maddie: "We have to cover them all, David! We don't want him sticking a finger in one and electrocuting himself!"

David put a few more outlet covers over the outlets in the living room, then looked at her and made a smirky but exasperated face. "Okay, Goldilocks, all done. These outlet covers are really stuck in here though. I'm imagining electrocuting myself using a screwdriver or a knife trying to pry one out so I can use an outlet. Do babies really stick their fingers in outlets? Surely Alex has more sense than that, don't you buddy?"

Alex stopped banging on his piano, looked up at his dad, smiled, and drooled, showing two cute little teeth in the bottom of his mouth. David couldn't help but smile back at his happy little face. It was like looking in a mirror sometimes, only Alex had Maddie's blonde hair – a whole lot of it, sticking up every which way - and small upturned nose.

Maddie walked into the kitchen and came back, shaking a bottle of formula. "Hey love bug, are you ready for a bottle and your afternoon nap?" Alex looked up at her, smiled and babbled, got on his hands and knees, and started scooting over towards her. She scooped him up, walked to the staircase, and struggled to open the baby gate before walking upstairs. David joined her.

David: "That's what I'm talking about, Maddie. I think some of this babyproofing is overkill. I better be able to easily get in and out of the fridge with that latch on there!"

Maddie: "Oh please, David. We'll get used to it!"

Maddie and David walked into Alex's nursery together.

David: "Here, let me. I'll give him his bottle and put him down for his nap. Give you a break." He sat down in the glider rocker and held Alex on his lap while Maddie leaned against the door. Alex drank his bottle and held onto David's hand with his little hands. Maddie watched the two of them together, looking a bit wistful. "How are you doing, honey? The weaning, I mean."

Maddie: "I miss it more than I thought I would. It was this bond and closeness that I had with him. He's doing great, though. Dr. Weed was right – I think this far along in my pregnancy, my milk was just different, and he was ready to wean himself. But it still makes me a little sad. He's getting so big, David - sitting up and crawling and teething. I can't believe he's 7 months old!"

David: "Time flies, Blondie Blonde. The new baby will be here before you know it. You still want to work on her nursery while Alex naps today?"

Maddie: "I could stand a nap myself, to be honest. All that baby proofing wore me out."

David: "Me too. Let's work on it tomorrow. Richie's coming over tomorrow morning to help with the crib. I picked up all of the pink paint from the hardware store on my way home yesterday. Just what this house needs – more pink!"

Maddie: "David!"

David: "I'm kidding, Maddie. A little girl's room has to be pink, right? You make everything beautiful, honey."

Maddie smiled at him. Alex finished his bottle and David burped him, then rocked him and sang to him for a little while until he got sleepy. David laid Alex down in his crib, turned on his mobile, turned off the light, and he and Maddie walked quietly out of Alex's room, closing the door behind them.

They both peeked into Abby's nursery and sighed. It needed a lot of work. There was a white glider rocker with pink and white striped cushions and a combo dresser-changing table that had been delivered – gifts from Alex and Virginia Hayes. There was a white crib, in a box, waiting to be put together. Art work leaning against one wall. A pink, cream, and blue rug rolled up in plastic leaning against the closet doors. Two cans of pink paint sitting on the floor. A few boxes of baby items scattered around the room.

Maddie: "Less than four more months, David, and we'll have two babies. I don't think that reality has quite settled in for me yet. We know how hard it can be with one. What are we going to do with two?"

David: "We'll figure it out, Maddie. It'll be okay."

Maddie: "And two more weeks until our first wedding anniversary. Can you believe it, baby?"

David smiled at her: "I'm excited about our trip to Chicago. We haven't been back since we got engaged. So glad your parents are keeping junior for a couple of nights so we can get away by ourselves. It's gonna be a busy week – our anniversary, Ad Man's first baseball game, Richie's bachelor party, and then the wedding. And then the 4th of July! Glad we are able to close Blue Moon for a couple of weeks for our annual summer vacation. It's gonna be a great time, Maddie."

Maddie: "I hope that bridesmaid's dress will still fit. I'm getting bigger every day. I have to say, I really miss mom and daddy since they are back in Chicago for the summer. It will be great to see them. And your dad and Stephanie too. Mom said their house is officially going on the market in July. So many memories there – they've been in that house since before I was born! I can't believe they'll be living in LA full time starting in the fall. I'm selfishly thrilled – we sure can use the help!"

Maddie and David walked into their bedroom and flopped down on their bed, exhausted. David laid behind Maddie with his arms around her, hand on her baby bump. They both fell fast asleep, worn out from their morning of baby proofing.

David woke up a little while later, thinking he heard Alex, but the house was quiet. He laid there for a while, thinking how wonderful it felt being next to Maddie. She was sound asleep, her breathing deep but quiet. He rubbed Maddie's baby bump gently, then moved his hand up and over her breasts. He started kissing her neck and brushed his lips against that spot that drove her crazy. She moaned quietly.

Maddie, sleepily: "David! Are you feeling amorous?"

David laughed: "Amorous? Yes, Maddie, I'm feeling amorous. Do you want me, baby? I want you so much."

They began undressing each other and kissing, slowly and softly at first, then more passionately. David kissed Maddie's neck and down to her breasts, tentatively circling his tongue gently around each nipple.

David: "Is this okay, honey? I know for a while it was uncomfortable, when you stopped nursing him…"

Maddie: "Don't stop, David. It feels so good."

Maddie stroked him with her hand. He climbed on top of her then realized her baby bump was starting to get in the way. They laid next to each other, face to face, legs intertwined, and he slipped inside of her. They made love quietly and completely until they climaxed together, then held each other until Alex woke up from his nap.

The next morning, Richie came over and helped David put the crib together. "You better return the favor soon, bro. First that car seat with Alex and Ginny and now this crib! You owe me!"

David: "Sure, Rich. How's the house hunt coming along?"

Richie: "We've looked at a few places. We're using the realtor that Maddie recommended. We'd like to be close to you guys but just haven't found the right place yet. We've got some time but definitely need a new place – one bedroom isn't gonna cut it with another Addison on the way. Elizabeth has done a lot of research and you're in the best school district in LA. Who'da thunk it, Davey? Me and you, talking about cribs and school districts?"

David smiled and shook his head: "I hear you, bro. How's Elizabeth feeling?"

Richie: "She's doing great, man. Not a lot of morning sickness or anything. Which is good because she's still working like crazy. She's really starting to show so we had to tell her parents. I was afraid her dad was gonna want to kill me but she's the youngest of 6 – I think her siblings have worn her parents down by now with their own drama."

David: "You gonna find out if it's a boy or a girl?"

Richie: "She really wants it to be a surprise, which is weird because she's a planner just like Maddie is. But I wanna know - maybe I can convince her to find out. I mean I feel like it's a surprise no matter when you find out, you know? And then you aren't stuck with a bunch of yellow."

David: "Ready for the big day? Less than 3 weeks now, bro. Getting cold feet?"

Richie: "No froze toes, Dave. I guess it's true – when you find the one, you find the one, you know?"

Later that afternoon, Maddie and David painted Abby's nursery. Maddie meticulously laid down drop cloths and used blue painter's tape to cover the molding. David got a ladder so they could reach the top of the walls and brought in a radio, tuned to a station playing Motown hits. They took turns painting the walls with the roller and cutting in with paintbrushes. Maddie looked at David and thought how cute he was, in jeans and a ripped t-shirt, singing along with the music and painting away – surprisingly, David was very handy around the house. Baby Alex happily played in the middle of the room in his exersaucer. Maddie accidentally kept flicking pink paint onto David's head.

David: "What the hell, Maddie? Watch where you're flicking that paint!"

Maddie smiled: "Oh I'm sorry, baby! I didn't mean to get paint on you!"

David reached over and rubbed a bit of paint on her nose with his finger, then picked her up, spun her around in his arms, and kissed her.

Maddie: "David!"

Baby Alex looked at the two of them and squealed with delight, then giggled and smiled.

David: "He has the best sense of humor, Maddie! And he's so happy. Just look at him."

Maddie: "Yeah, he's a regular comedian, just like his dad."

The next couple of weeks were a flurry of activity. Blue Moon and Sidley Austin joined forces and held a wedding shower for Richie and Elizabeth at Il Cielo, all orchestrated by Agnes. Maddie continued coming into the office once a week on Thursdays to work on payroll, profit and loss statements, and financial forecasts. She brought Alex with her, since Alex and Virginia were back in Chicago for the summer. Agnes and The Wobblies took turns holding and playing with him while Maddie worked. It was a great part time solution, especially since The Wobblies didn't do a lot of anything else, but Maddie knew that long term, she'd need to find a better child care situation, especially once there were two babies to take care of. Blue Moon was busy with everyone working on meeting with client and closing cases and getting everything ready for their annual 2 week summer vacation.

The next Saturday, Maddie, David, and Alex flew from LA to Chicago – Alex's first plane ride. Richie and Elizabeth joined them on the same flight. Alex fussed a little bit on takeoff and landing but otherwise slept soundly for the entire 4 hour flight – as did David. Maddie held Alex on her lap and put her head on David's shoulder, watching the two men in her life sleep soundly. They were her whole world. Maddie was relieved when the flight landed uneventfully at O'Hare.

Maddie: "He's just like you, David. Asleep the entire flight. I don't know how you do it. You know I'm a nervous flyer."

David: "He's a chill little guy, Maddie. We got lucky with him. And he's filled with personality, too. Aren't you, buddy?"

Alex was busy smiling and babbling and waving at all of the flight attendants. One came by and patted him on the head. "What a good baby! Aren't you a cutie! He's such a little charmer."

David beamed and Maddie rolled her eyes: "He's an Addison, all right."

David and Richie got their luggage from baggage claim while Maddie and Elizabeth stayed with Alex.

Elizabeth: "Maddie, I'll see you and your mom at the bridal tea on Thursday afternoon at The Walnut Room. And Richie's bachelor party is that night."

David and Richie high-fived each other. Maddie and Elizabeth looked at each other and rolled their eyes. They'd both seen first-hand what a night of Addison debauchery could look like.

Maddie: "You two better not end up in jail. I'm not bailing anyone out."

David: "See you Thursday night, bro. Sure you don't wanna go with us to the Cubs game on Wednesday? Let us know. Maddie's dad has a box. Dad and Steph are joining us. Alex's first baseball game!"

Richie: "No can do, bro. Elizabeth's brothers are taking me fishing on Lake Michigan. Hopefully not to dump me overboard like Fredo in The Godfather!"

Elizabeth: "Richie! They love you!"

Richie and Elizabeth took a cab to Elizabeth's parents' house in Lincoln Park. Alex and Virginia Hayes picked Maddie, David, and baby Alex up in their Mercedes. They had a car seat set up in the middle of the backseat for Alex. Maddie and David sat on either side of him.

Virginia: "It's so good to see all three of you. Maddie, dear, how are you feeling?"

Maddie: "I'm good, mom. 24 weeks along now. A little tired, but really good."

Alex: "You three sure are a sight for sore eyes! David, you up for a game of golf while you're here? How about tomorrow morning before you two head into the city? I can call the club for a tee time."

David: "Absolutely, Alex."

Alex: "Soon enough, little Alex will be old enough to join us. I can't wait."

When they arrived at the Hayes residence in Evanston, David and Alex brought their bags inside while Maddie got baby Alex out of his car seat. Virginia scooped him into her arms and brought him inside.

Maddie walked inside and put her arm around David's waist: "It feels so good to be home, mom. It's been over a year since we were here last. So much has happened since then!" David smiled at her, held her hand, and squeezed it.

Virginia: "Maddie and David, we have you two in the guest room and we have a pack and play set up in Maddie's room for Alex. We got a baby monitor so we can listen out for him, give you two a break in case he wakes up tonight."

Maddie: "That's so sweet, mom. Thank you! He's usually a really good sleeper but he has his moments."

David and Alex brought their luggage upstairs. Maddie and Virginia stayed downstairs with baby Alex, letting him crawl around the living room and play with a few of Maddie's old baby toys that Virginia had pulled out.

Virginia: "Maddie, while you're here, you'll have to go through your old room. See what you want to pack up and keep and if there's anything you want to donate to charity. We'll get it into boxes and have the movers bring it with us to LA."

Maddie: "Oh, I definitely want to keep my old trophies and ribbons and yearbooks. I think I have some old dresses from when I was modeling that I'd like to keep too. I'll help pack those up while we're here. Some other things in the closet too." Maddie looked a bit wistful. "John's box. I don't think I will ever want to part with it. I don't really want to look through it but I want to keep it. Maybe keep it in the top of our guest room closet."

Virginia patted her arm: "I understand, sweetheart. Leave that one to me. I'll make sure it arrives safely in LA."

They spent a fun evening visiting, playing cards, and enjoying the dinner that Virginia made for them. Maddie and David took baby Alex upstairs, got him his bath, and put him in a sleeper. David held him and walked with Maddie into her childhood bedroom.

Maddie: "I need to go through all my stuff while we're here, David, see what I want to keep, and what needs to go. Mom said she'll have the movers bring anything I want to keep to LA. We can keep it in the attic, or the guest room closet, or something."

David looked around at the time capsule of young Maddie Hayes and smiled – trophies, ribbons, cheer pom poms, photos, yearbooks. His eyes then focused on the window seat that held dozens of dolls – all staring creepily at him. "I say ix-nay to the dolls, Maddie."

Maddie: "Oh, but don't you think they'd be wonderful in Abby's room? I'm sure she'd love to play with them!"

David: "No."

Maddie: "David! All little girls play with dolls."

David: "C'mon Maddie! Creepy piano doll was bad enough! We don't want these things invading our daughter's nursery! Look at them, all staring at us. Watching us. Plotting their revenge. And there's so many of them."

Maddie: "I love them, David. Let's at least think about it. Like this one – she was one of my favorites as a little girl - she's a Madam Alexander pussycat doll." She reached for a blonde doll wearing a pink dress that made a crying sound when Maddie picked her up. David shuddered.

Alex took one look at the doll that Maddie was holding, pointed his finger, made a face, and started crying.

David: "See Maddie, he doesn't like the dolls either."

Maddie: "I hate you, David."

Maddie and David enjoyed a peaceful, uninterrupted night of sleep while Alex and Virginia listened out for baby Alex. Alex had a peaceful night of sleep too – he settled down easily once Maddie and David removed the dolls from the window seat and put them in the closet. The next morning, everyone slept in a bit – Alex was normally an early riser but was still on LA time. David played a game of golf with Alex while Maddie and Virginia took baby Alex shopping at Marshall Field's. Virginia insisted on buying some new baby clothes for Alex and Abby as well as a couple of new toys for Alex. She also treated Maddie to a nice dress to wear out while she and David celebrated their anniversary downtown – a cream and gold maternity evening gown.

That afternoon, Maddie and David took a cab into the city to The Drake, where they had reservations for the next two nights to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. They checked in, then the porter showed them to their suite on the top floor of the hotel. They looked around the room - it was the same suite they'd stayed in the last time they were in Chicago, when they got engaged. It was decorated in yellows and golds and dark wood, with sweeping views of Lake Michigan. There was a bouquet of red roses on the coffee table, a bottle of sparkling cider chilling in a champagne bucket with two champagne flutes, and a plate of chocolate covered strawberries.

Maddie: "Oh, this is so sweet, David."

David: "It wasn't me, Blondie Blonde." He picked up the card and read it. "To Maddie and David. Happy First Anniversary. We love you both. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness. Alex and Ginny Hayes" He leaned over and grabbed a chocolate covered strawberry and popped it in his mouth. "Oooo – strawberries. Want one?"

Maddie: "No thanks. Oh David, it's great to be alone with you. It's so nice of mom and daddy to watch Alex for a couple of nights. What do you want to do tonight? Go out to dinner? Dancing? A blues club?"

David walked over to Maddie and lifted her chin with his fingertips, looked into her eyes, and whispered in his sandpapery voice: "I want to stay in this room, make love to you over and over again, order room service, and not get dressed until we have to go back to your parents' house on Tuesday. I want to have you so many times that you can barely walk."

Maddie: "David! We should at least go out, just the two of us. Dinner and dancing, maybe?"

David: "I'm kidding, Maddie. Well, actually I'm NOT kidding – if it were just up to me that's exactly what I'd want to do." David walked over and opened the bottle of sparkling cider, and poured a glass for each of them, and handed one to Maddie. They clinked their glasses together. "Happy Anniversary, Madolyn. One year. Can you believe it? Here – I have something for you." He walked over to his suitcase and pulled out a small box and an envelope. "I know a first anniversary is considered the golden anniversary but then a traditional gift is paper so I got you two things…"

David handed her a turquoise blue box tied simply with a white grosgrain ribbon. Maddie untied the ribbon – the words Tiffany & Co were embossed on the top of the box in black. She opened the box and inside was a knot pendant necklace in yellow gold, with a round diamond in the center.

Maddie: "Oh David, this is so beautiful. I love it! Thank you!"

David took the necklace, unclasped it, and gently put it around her neck. "I saw it and thought it looked like you. Gorgeous, just like you are."

Next, he handed her a letter sized envelope. "These are for tonight. Your mom helped me get them." Maddie opened the envelope and inside were two tickets to the Chicago Symphony. Box seats.

David smiled: "I promise the seats are together this time."

Maddie: "But David, you hate the symphony."

David: "I don't hate it, Maddie. I don't love it like you do but I know you like to get dressed up and have a – what did you call it? – a fine evening. It's important to you, and I want to give you that. They are playing Mozart. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik."

Maddie gave him a big hug: "Oh, David!"

David winked: "I heard old Mozart puts on a good show. Symphony is at 8. I made dinner reservations beforehand downstairs at Coq d'Or. Well, I had a little help from Ginny. We've got time to rest – or something – before we go out."

Maddie: "I have something for you too, David." Maddie reached into her luggage and pulled out a small, square box, beautifully wrapped in black paper with a gold satin ribbon tied around it. She handed the package to David to open. It was a gold watch, one that he'd been admiring for a long time.

David: "Aww, Maddie! This is really great! You knew I wanted this."

Maddie: "Look at the back, David. I had it engraved, with our wedding date and a quote from our song. I hope you like it. Clocks and watches are also traditional first anniversary gifts – they are supposed to represent eternal love – plus this one is gold so it ticks that box too."

The back of the watch was embossed with: "I can't get you out of my heart. 6-27-87."

David leaned over and kissed Maddie gently on the lips. "I love you, Madolyn." She clasped the watch around his right wrist.

Maddie: "I have another gift for you David. For later."

David: "Does it involve sex?"

Maddie rolled her eyes at him: "David!" She paused, smiled coyly, and said: "Maybe."

Maddie and David shed their clothes and got under the cool sheets in the king bed in their suite. They made love, sweetly, and gently, and completely. They fell asleep in each other's arms, then woke up and got ready for their evening out. Maddie wore her new cream and gold maternity evening dress and her new necklace and David wore his black tuxedo and his new watch. They enjoyed a meal at Cote d'Or in The Drake, then took a cab to the stunning Chicago Symphony Hall on Michigan Avenue. Alex and Virginia's connections had gotten them a box for the evening, with a perfect view of the orchestra, with opera glasses for each of them. Maddie used her glasses to look at the musicians on stage. David used his to people watch. An evening at the symphony was absolutely not David's cup of tea but he loved seeing Maddie's face light up at the music and the experience of the two of them getting dressed up and going out somewhere special together.

The music was beautiful and David had to admit he had a good time – although he'd personally have preferred a blues club over the symphony. Afterwards, they walked along Michigan Avenue a bit, taking in the night air and the sights and sounds of the city, before taking a cab back to their hotel. When they got back to their room, David walked over to the clock radio on the bedside table and turned it on, turning the dial to find some music. The sounds of Van Morrison's "Moondance" filled the room.

David: "Perfect. C'mere. Dance with me, Maddie."

He took her hand and they swayed to the music in their hotel suite, cheek to cheek, their arms around each other, his nose in her hair, breathing in her scent. He twirled and dipped her before bringing her back into his arms, looking into her eyes, and kissing her, softly and deeply.

Well, it's a marvelous night for a moondance
With the stars up above in your eyes

You know I'm trying to please to the calling

Of your heartstrings that play soft and low

You know the night's magic seems to whisper and hush

You know the soft moonlight seems to shine in your blush

Can I just have one more moondance with you, my love?
Can I just make some more romance with you, my love?

Well, I wanna make love to you tonight
I can't wait 'til the morning has come
You know, I know now the time is just right
And straight into my arms you will run

And when you come, my heart will be waiting
To make sure that you're never alone
There and then all my dreams will come true, dear
There and then I will make you my own

And every time I touch you, you just tremble inside
And I know how much you want me, that you can't hide

Can I just have one more moondance with you, my love?
Can I just make some more romance with you, my love?

David: "I love you, Maddie."

Maddie: "I love you, David. Happy Anniversary."

They held each other and danced for a long time, just enjoying each other's company and the time alone, just the two of them.

Maddie: "David, it's time for the other part of your present. I'll be right back…"

Maddie disappeared into the bathroom for a few minutes. David shook his head, and smirked, and sat on the edge of the bed. Maddie emerged wearing a gold negligee that left nothing to the imagination. It was made of gold colored silk, with a sheer lace top. It skimmed over her baby bump and had a matching pair of silk and lace gold string bikini panties. "So, continuing with that first anniversary 'gold' theme…"

David could only utter one word: "Wow."

Maddie handed him a small gold box with a latch. "Open it." Inside was a pair of gold leather handcuffs, lined with fur, held together with a gold metal chain, with a heart shaped lock. She held a tiny key in her hand and sat it down on the nightstand.

David: "Jesus, honey. You are absolutely stunning. I'm speechless…"

Maddie laughed: "Well, that's a first!"

David held the handcuffs in his hands and raised an eyebrow: "So Madolyn, what did you have in mind with these?"

Maddie walked over to David and began undressing him. She slipped off his tuxedo jacket, letting it drop to the floor, then untied his bow tie. She unbuttoned his dress shirt, button by button, and took off his cufflinks, setting them down on the bedside table next to the key. She slipped off his shirt and tie before removing his cummerbund, unzipping his trousers, and slipping her hand inside them. He was already hard. She slowly removed the rest of his clothes. "I've been thinking about doing this all evening."

They laid down together on the bed and began kissing passionately, lips and tongues and hands everywhere. He started to remove her negligee and panties but she stopped him. "Leave them on, David. They are crotchless." David gulped. Maddie slid over on top of him, pinning him underneath her. She took the handcuffs and cuffed his wrists to the bedpost.

Maddie ran her lips and tongue along his jawline and along his neck, then kissed down his chest and belly, breathing in his intoxicating scent. She took him in her mouth, stroking his hardness with one hand and teasing him with her lips and tongue. She whispered to him: "This is how you like it, isn't it, baby?" She continued for a while, until she heard his breathing get uneven, and then kissed her way back up to his face and kissed him passionately, biting his lips and touching her tongue to his, running her fingers through his hair. She got on top of him and slipped him inside her and began moving slowly, but deliberately, and whispered in his ear: "I love the way you fill me up. I love to feel you deep inside of me. I wish I could fuck you forever."

David couldn't help himself. The combination of the unexpected handcuffs and dirty talk from his wife made him so aroused that he came almost instantly, screaming her name as he did.

Maddie: "David!"

David: "I'm sorry honey, I don't think I've ever been so turned on in my whole life. I promise I'll make it up to you. I'd do it right this minute but I, um, can't move."

Maddie smiled, and ran her fingers through the side of his hair: "Surely you've done things like this before."

David smirked at her: "Are you asking me if anyone has ever handcuffed me to a bed, given me a blow job, and gotten on top of me wearing the sexiest piece of lingerie I've ever seen in my life? No."

Maddie: "Come on David, we both know your, um, experience. What's the weirdest thing you've ever done? It could have been with me – or anyone. I want to know."

David: "Maddie, you know my past. Tess was never really that interested in me. Jillian was always more interested in herself, and money, and power, than our relationship. And yes, lots of meaningless one night stands. Nothing like I have with you."

Maddie: "I'm genuinely curious, David. I find it hard to believe no one has ever handcuffed you before. Or that you haven't, oh, I don't know, had two women at once – a menage a trois? Or done it somewhere really weird in some really weird way?"

David feigned shock: "Maddie! Such talk from such a good girl."

Maddie: "Oh please, David. It's not like I don't have a past, too. Maybe not as extensive as yours…"

David: "Look at me, Blondie Blonde. Just because I have a certain level of experience doesn't mean I've ever had anything with anyone like what I have with you. There's just no comparison on any level. Do you realize what an absolute fucking goddess you are, Madolyn? Don't you know this is the best sex I've ever had in my entire life? This connection we have, it's like magic. No one has ever done so much to please me. Or let me give myself to them, completely. Never. I love you so much, honey."

Maddie looked at David, touched the side of his face with her hand, and smiled at this unexpected outpouring of emotion. It was the sexiest, most honest, most romantic thing anyone had ever said to her. Maddie got the key and unlocked the handcuffs. David pulled her into his arms and, as promised, made love to her until she screamed his name. Twice.

David: "Are you tired, baby? I could go all night long."

Maddie: "I know you could, David. Let's get some sleep."

Maddie and David slept very late, then got up and ordered room service breakfast. It felt great to be able to sleep in and have this time together, just the two of them. They stayed in bed all day long and ordered room service again for dinner. They made love over and over again. The next morning, they checked out and took a cab back to Maddie's parents' house, rested and refreshed. They walked through the front door and found her parents on the floor of their library, playing with Alex, listening to an Elvis Presley album on the record player. Alex looked up at Maddie and David and smiled and started babbling. David leaned over and picked him up and they both kissed him.

Maddie: "I hope he was good for you, mom."

Virginia: "He was just an angel, dear. An absolute joy. He's so good natured and happy. We had a wonderful time with him. But oh my goodness, he's a little man on the move. Crawling around everywhere."

Alex: "He loves music. Your mother and I played all kinds of records for him and he loved all of it. We ended up dancing around with him in the kitchen, and in the library, and he just smiled and laughed. Haven't had that much fun in a long time."

Maddie and David looked at each other and smiled at the thought of their son bringing her parents so much joy. David mouthed "I love you" to Maddie and squeezed her hand.

Virginia: "David, when do your dad and Stephanie get in? Still this afternoon?"

David: "That's the plan. They are meeting Richie and Elizabeth for dinner with her parents tonight then they'll meet us a Wrigley Field for the baseball game tomorrow afternoon. They're staying at the hotel near the church, where they are having the reception."

Maddie, David, Alex, and Virginia took baby Alex to Wrigley Field the next afternoon to see the Cubs play the White Sox. David Sr. and Stephanie met them there. Alex's company had a box at Wrigley Field and they all enjoyed watching the game. David Sr. and Stephanie bought Alex a little Cubs baseball cap and jersey. David and Maddie took turns taking lots of photos with their Nikon camera. Little Alex enjoyed the excitement of the game and the people and the newness of the experience. Maddie held him on her lap and fed him applesauce and gave him a bottle while the adults enjoyed Chicago style hot dogs and beer – with sodas for Maddie and Virginia. They had a very fun day.

On Thursday afternoon, Maddie and Virginia met Stephanie downtown for a little shopping before Elizabeth's bridal tea at The Walnut Room downtown. Maddie enjoyed catching up with Elizabeth's sisters as well as several of her Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority sisters. David and Alex took baby Alex to the golf club, where they had a late lunch and showed him off to all of Alex's golf buddies. That evening was Richie's bachelor party. David and Alex dressed up in dark suits and got ready to take a cab into the city for the evening.

Maddie: "Very handsome, Addison. Suits, huh? I expected to see you in jeans and a leather jacket."

David: "They are going for a whole Rat Pack vibe."

Maddie pulled David aside before he left: "All right, David. I don't want the police coming to my parents' door in the middle of the night. I don't want to get a call to come and bail you and Richie out of jail, either, and Elizabeth and I don't want to have to fill out any missing persons reports. Got it?"

David: "Jesus Maddie, you're embarrassing me in front of your parents. I'm not a child. Yes, I have had my share of lost weekends but that's all in the past, honey. Besides your dad, and my dad, and Elizabeth's dad, are all going to be there. No need to worry, Goldilocks."

Maddie looked unconvincingly at him. "No hookers or call girls either, David."

David: "Maddie, sweetheart, you have to believe me that I would never be unfaithful to you." He walked over and brushed his lips along her cheek to her ear and whispered in a sandpapery voice: "Besides why on earth would I want to do something like that when the sexiest woman in the world is waiting in a warm bed for me at home?"

They smoldered at each other for a moment before they heard a honk from the taxi. David and Alex left together for downtown.

Richie's bachelor party was fun, low key, and classic old school Chicago, planned by Elizabeth's three brothers, Rob, Jim, and Tom. They met for dinner and drinks downtown at the Italian steakhouse Gene and Georgetti, followed by cigars at The Biggs mansion, where Elizabeth's father Michael was a member. They ended the evening uptown at The Green Mill, a lounge and jazz club that had been popular since the prohibition era, where they sat in Al Capone's booth, listened to great music, and shared bottles of high end whiskey – they stayed and closed the place down. They all had a great time and had too much to drink. Alex, David Sr., and Michael were all great storytellers, and had everyone in stitches telling stories of their younger days in Chicago, as well as stories about Elizabeth, Maddie, David, and Richie. Alex and David took a cab back home to Evanston and got home around 2am. They quietly came in through the front door and walked up the stairs, trying not to wake everyone up.

David quietly opened the door to the guest room, went into the bathroom and brushed his teeth and washed his face, slipped out of his clothes, and got into bed with Maddie, putting his arms around her.

Maddie leaned back into him and moaned softly: "Mmmm. What time is it, David?"

David nuzzled the back of her hair with his nose and lips, and kissed the back of her neck: "It's a little after 2. Did you miss me, honey?"

Maddie: "I did, but ugh, you stink, David. Like whiskey and cigars."

David: "Let me go grab a shower. I thought you thought it was sexy when I smoked."

Maddie: "I think it's more of the visual of you smoking than the residual scent. And don't go anywhere, David – stay here with me, I don't care about the smoke. It feels good being in your arms. Did you have fun?"

David: "We did. It was a lot of fun, Maddie, and your dad is a great guy. The stories he has! And it was great to spend time with dad and Rich. Elizabeth's dad is cool too – really well connected, old Chicago money kind of guy. He and your dad know each other from the business world and a men's club they are in together. I liked her brothers too. But I missed you – and junior."

Maddie: "Mom and I just hung out here with Stephanie and Alex. He's crawling around all over the place, David. He's just so cute, and so curious. So much like you." She rolled over and looked at him, touching the side of his face with her hand and running it through the side of his hair.

David: "How's the bambina?" He rubbed her baby bump with his left hand.

Maddie: "Good. Starting to kick up a storm. I think she can hear us. Here, feel…" She moved his hand to a particular spot on her belly and he could feel the slight thumping and kicking, and got the biggest smirky smile on his face.

David: "I love you so much, Maddie. And I love Alex. And I love this baby too."

Maddie laid her head on David's chest and he put his arms around her. They fell asleep, David stroking Maddie's hair and Maddie running her hands through the hair on his chest.

The next couple of days were a whirlwind of wedding activities. Friday morning was a breakfast with the entire wedding party and out of town guests. Friday night was the wedding rehearsal at the church, Saint Clement's in Lincoln Park. It was a beautiful Catholic church where Elizabeth's family had gone for generations and where her parents and siblings had all gotten married. After the rehearsal, Elizabeth's parents, Michael and Mary-Margaret Banks, held a rehearsal dinner at The Chicago Club, where both Michael Banks and Alexander Hayes were members.

There was a flurry of activity on Richie's and Elizabeth's wedding day. Maddie and David spent the morning together with Alex, Virginia, and baby Alex before heading to the church to get ready for the 6pm ceremony. Richie had spent the night before at the hotel while Elizabeth stayed with her parents, so they wouldn't see each other before the ceremony.

David and Richie got ready together in a special suite at the church. It was nice to have this time together, just the two brothers.

David: "Rich, how're you doing, bro? Any cold feet? How'd you sleep last night?"

Richie: "All warm and toasty, Davey. And like a baby. I'm really not nervous. Not sure why not."

David: "Same for me for our wedding, Rich. Everything just felt right. I was excited about it, to be honest with you. You know, mom would be really proud of you."

Richie: "She'd be proud of both of us, Bro."

David: "We done good, Rich. Truly."

Richie: "So we just got some news, Davey. Got some tests back from Dr. Weed. It's a boy."

David: "Aww, congrats, Rich. Another Ad Man! Got a name picked out yet?"

Richie: "I think Michael, after Elizabeth's dad. Michael Richard Addison."

David: "Maddie's going to be over the moon. Our boys will be so close together in age. We'll have a lot of hand me downs for you too."

Richie: "Sounds good, bro. And mum's the word. We haven't told anyone else. I mean you can tell Maddie…"

David: "30 more minutes, Bro. Remember that kids' rhyme? Oranges and lemons, ring the bells of Saint Clement's?"

Richie: "You owe me five farthings, ring the bells of Saint Martin's."

David: "When did we learn this?"

Richie: "Our Lady of Hope Catholic School. Elementary, maybe?"

Maddie got ready in another part of the church, with Elizabeth and her three sisters, who were also bridesmaids.

Maddie: "Are you nervous?"

Elizabeth: "Oh, you know me, Maddie. I'm never nervous. Nerves of steel! I'm honestly excited."

Maddie: "That's how I felt on our wedding day. No nerves. Just happy to start our lives together."

Elizabeth: "Well, I have some news. We just got some test results back from Dr. Weed – the amnio. It's a boy."

Maddie hugged Elizabeth: "I am so thrilled for you guys! Another Ad Man! Richie must be thrilled."

Elizabeth: "He is. He really wanted a boy. We're naming him Michael, after my dad. 5 more months! I'm so thrilled we are doing this together, Maddie, and we'll be close together in LA. Did Richie tell you that we think we've found a place not too far from you guys? Same school district, which is the best in LA. Everything is really coming together."

Maddie: "That's great news! So, we'll look after the apartment while you guys are on your honeymoon, check the mail. Let us know if there's anything else you want us to do. Looking forward to Hawaii?"

Elizabeth: "I can't wait. Just to relax, and have that time together."

David stood with his brother at the altar, both of them wearing white-tie tuxedos. The processional music started – "Canon in D" by Pachelbel. David smiled, seeing Maddie walking down the aisle in a navy blue bridesmaid's dress, which hugged all of her curves, holding little Alex, who was an honorary member of the wedding party, wearing a cute navy and white Feltman Brothers romper with white knee socks and white shoes. Maddie was stunning – she always took his breath away – and their son was absolutely adorable, smiling and waving as Maddie walked down the aisle with him. David smiled a smirky smile, and shook his head – how did a bad boy from South Philly get so lucky? Elizabeth walked down the aisle to "Trumpet Voluntary" by Purcell and wore a full, princess style off-white silk gown, with a long train and a long veil, which was perfect for the large church - and to help conceal that she was 4 months along. It was a gorgeous, Princess Diana type look. The evening candlelight service was beautiful – and very long. David was thankful for their own short, but sweet, Las Vegas ceremony. After the wedding, there was a seated dinner at a nearby hotel, where Maddie and David both gave toasts. Virginia, Alex, David Sr., and Stephanie enjoyed passing baby Alex around and spending time with him.

Maddie held up her glass of sparkling water: "Elizabeth and I have known each other for longer than either of us would care to admit. We met as Kappa Kappa Gamma pledges when we were freshmen at Northwestern and have been friends ever since. She and Richie met at our wedding a little over a year ago and I couldn't be happier for them. We're thrilled that they have chosen to live in Los Angeles near us now and we look forward to spending lots of time together and raising our families together. Elizabeth and I have been sorority sisters for many years but now we really and truly are sisters. And Richie, you have been the best brother this only child could ever ask for. You're smart, and funny, and you help keep David in line and I'm so thankful for you. To Elizabeth and Richie!"

David raised a glass of champagne: "A toast to my big brother, Richie and his beautiful wife, Elizabeth. Richie and I have had a lifetime together of doing some really crazy things. We lost our mom when we were really young and ended up teaching ourselves how to cook, how to dance, how to do all the things mom probably would have taught us if she could have. She'd be so proud of you today, Rich, just like dad and Steph and I are. To two brothers from South Philly who must be doing something right! And Elizabeth, I'm so happy to be getting a sister. Maddie and I look forward to a lifetime of good times with you two, and to raising our families together. To Richie and Elizabeth! Now, let's eat too much, drink too much, and get a little stupid!"

Richie: "I'll keep this short and sweet. I'd like to make a toast to my beautiful wife, Elizabeth. I love you, baby, and can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. You fill my life with love and laughter! And to Maddie and David and baby Alex – if it weren't for you, we never would have met each other so thanks to the three of you! Cheers, everyone!"

After dinner, everyone watched Richie and Elizabeth cut the cake, followed by dancing to music from a jazz and old standards band. Richie and Elizabeth's first dance was to the Louis Armstrong classic "What A Wonderful World". Maddie and David danced together, holding baby Alex between them. He was wide awake and taking in everything around him. He reached out and played with the necklace that Maddie was wearing – and tried to put it in his mouth. David laughed. As they swayed to the music with their son between them, they couldn't believe this amazing life they were building together. David put his hand on Maddie's growing belly and could feel the baby kicking and said: "Three more months…" They smoldered at each other and David smiled a big, smirky smile at Maddie.

"Moonlighting: A Cookbook and Culinary History - Recipes, Restaurants, Clubs, and Cocktails Featured in the Iconic 1980s Series" coming August 5, 2025!