Chapter Text
Chapter 24
Two weeks Later
Engagement party plans. Wedding plans. Getting the new dealerships on track. Overbearing parents. It was a never ending mess since I proposed to Bo and this day alone had been way too stressful. Not that I ever wished I hadn't popped the question, because that was the one thing I would never want to change, but all the rest of the crap I could do without. I wish we could elope. Life would be so much easier especially since I didn't care about the whole ceremony thing anyway, but mom would be crushed. Her and Bo's mom were off and running the moment we told them the news. For the most part that was fine, but Bo and I had to put our foot down. We didn't want a huge, crazy wedding. We did want a big party though.
But right now all I wanted was to snuggle up on the sofa with Bo and watch some kind of fluffy, feel good movie and shut the world out. I craved her arms around me. No matter what was going on around us, we always grounded one another. Unfortunately, she was going to be tied up at work reviewing contracts tonight. So, my next option was to pay a surprise visit with some takeout.
As I approached her assistant, Marni, She perked up and waved me in with a smile. "She will be so relieved to see you. Its been a crazy day."
"Same here. Thanks Marni."
I hoped Bo was up for a surprise visit and some Mexican. The last thing I wanted to do was interrupt, but I couldn't suppress the urge to see her, knowing just a smile would make my day light years better.
I pushed the door open slowly and poked my head in. Bo had her eyes glued to the papers on her desk. Her pen flicked rapidly against the hard wood of her desk in obvious frustration. With a deep breath she closed her eyes, rolled her shoulders and then released a ragged sigh before opening her eyes once more. When they fell on me, her stressed lines washed away, replaced by an ever growing smile. "Lauren? Thank god," she exhaled and threw her pen down.
"I love that response." I smirked and admired my ring on her finger. Two weeks in and I would still turn giddy at the sight of it. I couldn't wait to marry that woman.
She laughed. "Come in and please distract me from this cluster fuck of a day."
"That bad huh?"
"You have no idea."
"Well, maybe I can distract you with some of your favorite enchiladas from Sombrero's." I stepped inside and held up the bag as I shoved the door shut with my foot.
"You are a goddess. I love you so much," she gushed and hopped up to meet me. "I have some amazing tequila we can wash it down with."
"Perfect. I could definitely use some of that." I set the bag on the side table.
"I know something else I could use." A sexy smirk tugged at her mouth as she took my hand and pulled me hard against her.
I smiled at the warmth of her against me, already feeling the tension ease from my body. I'd been waiting for that for hours. Plus, our little games were always enjoyable. "Yeah?" My brow rose up with a hint of suspicion to play along. "What's that?"
"Some kisses." Bo shifted from seductive to child like as her lips turned to a pout.
So damn sexy and so unbelievably cute. "You want to start with dessert," I teased.
She brushed her nose against my cheek and whispered, "I'm never opposed to that, however I was thinking more of the appetizer variety and we could save the dessert for after Marni goes home."
"I like the way you think Ms. Dennis." Maybe Marni could be excused early.
"You like a lot of things about me, Ms. Lewis."
"You are correct." I leaned in, brushing my lips across her her cheek before going in for a kiss.
We started slow and tender, but as the seconds passed and we yearned to push the bullshit from the day out of our minds, our movements grew feverish.
Marni who?
Our jackets hit the floor. Determined hands yanked to free edges of fabric and undo buttons. Bo's mouth frantically tasted every inch of my neck and my fingers tangled in her hair, pushing her down toward my breasts. Her warm, silky skin on mine would definitely provide a welcomed stress relief. Judging by her wanton gasps and moans, she was just as needy.
The buzzer went off as Marni chimed in "Ms. Dennis?"
Bo froze and fell limp against my body. "Fuck," she mumbled through heavy breaths. "Will this day ever end?" She glanced up at me with pleading eyes.
"Sorry hun." I offered a sympathetic smile, but held her tight. I was struggling to catch my breath while fighting the urge to keep her to myself.
Fucking Marni.
I swallowed hard and cleared the lust filled haze from my brain. "I'll be right over there when you're done." I nodded to the small table near the window that overlooked the strip.
"Ms. Dennis," the woman repeated, still awaiting Bo's response.
"Yes Marni," she answered and unraveled our limbs. She walked back to her desk with an exhausted sigh while fiddling with a few of the buttons I had undone.
So close. I smirked and laughed to myself. I could never get enough of Bo Dennis.
"It's Mr. Rosenfeld. He says its important."
"Of course he does. Its always important." She looked at me and complained, "Probably needs someone to scratch his ass for him."
I stifled a laugh and went about unpacking our dinner.
She answered the call politely. Her voice was sweet, but her expression the complete opposite as she rolled her eyes. A few minutes of back and forth, Bo's frustration visibly increased. Her mouth pulled down into a hard frown. "Martin, you've had this project for three months." She leaned back in her chair. "I brought you on board for this specific deal. You ran your mouth about all the amazing work you've done, but all I've been hearing is a lot of excuses. I don't pay you for excuses. I pay you for results."
She paused and rolled her eyes as he spoke. In a quick motion she bolted forward and slapped her hand down hard on the desk. The flare in her dark eyes mixed with her ruffled hair and half unbuttoned blouse made her a sight to behold. God she was beautiful. Business Bo was such a turn on.
"If you lack the skills to handle it, I will get someone who can. You have two more weeks Martin, two weeks to get your shit together and close that deal or you will be out on your ass and you can be sure everyone who's anyone will hear about your lack of competence. Do I make myself clear?" Her eyes met mine and the corner of her moth curled up into a salacious grin. "Good. Now the next time we speak I only want to hear good news or you can peddle your bullshit resume down at Burger King."
She slammed the phone down and ran her fingers through her hair, letting out a hard breath as she focused back on me. "You sure we cant just elope? I'm ready for that two week honeymoon. You and me someplace without a phone or any of these incompetent assholes who think they can bullshit there way around. I don't know if they really think they're that good or if its just because I'm a woman, but god it pisses me off to no end."
"Nope." I shook my head vehemently. "I promised no eloping. Besides you begged me for that date, though you refuse to tell me why, so no. No eloping."
"Man, I'm marrying a real stickler," she laughed through her words as she stood and made her way back to me.
"Mhm and you seem to like it." I arched my brow and smirked as I waved her toward the table. "Come on. Let's eat. I'm starving."
Bo smiled wide and kicked off her heels. "Have I told you how much I love you?"
"Not in the last five minutes and you're kinda breakin' my heart," I whined, forcing my lips into a pout.
"Aww. I can't have that now." She leaned across the table a delivered a tender kiss. Not one to drive me crazy, but one that made my head spin with the sensations that always accompanied her lips on mine. "I love you so, so much Lauren Lewis," she said with her lips ghosting mine as she spoke. She kissed me once more fully, before sitting across from me with a smile so bright it challenged the sun and brought out my favorite feature; her dimple.
My eyes drifted down to the exposed valley between her breasts covered by the lace of her bra, then made their way back over full lips and into knowing eyes. "I love you too Bo Dennis and I'm gonna marry the hell outta you."
She bit her lip as I smiled. Her eyes never left mine as she took her first bite.
It was the little moments like this I enjoyed so much and I was looking forward to many more during my life with Bo.
XXX
Three weeks Later- Engagement Party
Our families were already here, milling about the house and around the yard where we'd had a canopy set up for the party. Our mothers were tending to the caterers and any other final details, allowing us to relax and enjoy the moment. I breathed out a sigh of relief that this first circus would be over soon. Bo and I were finally able to corral our moms and, believe it or not, her sister, and keep them from turning everything into a media spectacle. I knew this was a big deal on the gossip pages and for her family, but to Bo and I, it was private and we wanted to maintain some of that just for us.
After much discussion, we had all came to an agreement. The engagement party would be a private affair here at the house with catered food from Gaspacio's, my mothers request, and a string quartet, Evelyn's request. We would have Scotty take pictures to be released to the public and tomorrow we would grant two interviews. One to some big business magazine that Alyn revered and one to People Magazine, Kierstyn's doing, which had me nervous beyond belief.
As for the wedding, Bo had a certain date set in her head since the day after I proposed. She refused to tell me why, but I was sure it would come with an epic surprise meant just for me. That was something I absolutely adored about my soon-to-be wife; the way she would find these ways to surprise me that didn't include over the top material things. Although Bo was very much 'go big or go home' in her gestures, the sentiment was pure and not merely to impress with money. Like the Foo Fighters private concert or last week when she surprised me at work, dragging me out early to take me to Lake Mead for a sunset sail.
Bo had chartered a private sail boat with a chef that prepared a fabulous Italian meal of salad, garlic bread, beef tortellini and panacotta. We toasted champagne as the sun went down and then Bo stopped my heart when she dropped to her knee and presented me with her great grandmother's engagement ring. She told me that this one and the wedding ring had been passed down to the boys to give their intended's over the generations. Her mother currently wore the wedding ring given to her by her father, but her grandmother had held onto her ring. Until now anyway. When Bo had flown home the previous weekend, grandmother Elizabeth sat her down and presented her with the ring, telling her how proud she was of the woman she'd become and how she couldn't wait to see her wedding day.
Bo's eyes glistened with emotion as she continued, telling me the ring was a symbol of truly being welcomed into the Dennis family and that even though we were already engaged, she didn't feel complete without returning the declaration of love.
Tears filled my eyes as I watched her slip it on. The feeling of placing my ring on her finger was amazingly wonderful, but the feeling of having her ring on mine, was indescribable. Almost as if the little circular metal and stone band made this all the more real than it was five minutes ago. It was one thing to have others see that she was mine, but wearing a symbol that I was hers, made me feel more complete than I ever dreamed possible.
I dropped down to meet her, pulling her in for a kiss that I hoped spoke for the way I loved her. So truly and completely. Bo was absolutely it for me and from the way she kissed me back, I knew I was it for her too. We tumbled backwards to the ground when the sailboat rolled over a wave, laughing like crazy. It was only a moment before we pulled ourselves onto the lounge chair and wrapped in one another again until darkness replaced the colors of day.
That was a great day. I couldn't help but smile at the memory. The fact that we had so many more wonderful days ahead of us made me grin even more. But first, we had to make it through the insanity that was our families. I will say one thing though, our families worked fast. It was a bit like a scene from some kids movie about Santa and his elves, but instead of toys there were catalogs, cakes, dresses and phone calls. Within two weeks they had planned the entire wedding reception at the Bellagio Hyde room and the private ceremony Bo and I wanted out at Red Rocks near our special place. Now all there was to do, was pick out wedding attire, decide where to honeymoon and enjoy the pomp and circumstance that came with marrying a billionaire.
I leaned back on my elbows, my legs dangling over the side of the bed as I watched Bo put the finishing touches on her makeup. I couldn't help but smile as her eyes would find mine in the mirror every few seconds. Her dark browns sparkled each time that she'd make my smile grow. My attention drifted to my left hand and the ring that graced my finger shining every bit as bright as Bo's smile.
The Victorian era emerald cut diamond was surrounded by a halo of European cut emeralds and diamonds mounted in eighteen karat gold. Eye catching for sure, but what I loved most about the ring, was what it wasn't. It wasn't just something to put on my hand because I had given her one or to make sure people knew I was taken. And it wasn't some gigantic, store bought generic ring who's purpose was to show off her wealth. No. The ring carried deep meaning. Giving away a family jewel wasn't just done on a whim. Also, it wasn't gaudy. Originally Bo's great grandmother's ring, bought when the family was just beginning to amass their fortune, there were a few stones added over the years to dress it up, but the overall beauty of humble beginnings was still intact. I loved it and felt the depth of what it meant to wear the Dennis family ring. By them agreeing to Bo giving me the ring, they were trusting me not only with a valuable and sentimental piece of their family and to represent them respectably, but they were trusting me with Bo; that I would always treat her right and hold her heart above all else. I certainly didn't need a ring for any of that, but knowing it bore the Dennis family stamp of approval made me feel like I belonged, even if that never seemed important to me before.
I was so lost in thought I didn't even notice her standing in front of me. Shaking out of my daze, my mouth dropped open at the sight of Bo staring at me with her lip quirked and hand on her hip. She was wearing a stunning black Dolce and Gabbana strapless dress with metallic print throughout, a lace tie closure in back and a concealed zip on the side that hugged every curve as close as skin. Let's face it, Bo looked great in everything and nothing at all, but I had to admit, this was one of my favorites. Her makeup was minimal, just enough to highlight her features and her hair was pulled back from her face with a slight curl to the long tendrils that fell over her shoulders. So elegant, yet so simple. That was so often the case with Bo and it was one of the most unexpected things from a woman of her pedigree. The fact that she had the world wrapped around her finger, but didn't spend all her time making it obvious, was endearing.
"You ready," Bo asked with a purr to her words.
"To show you off?" I slid off of the bed and stood before her. Taking her hands in mine, I smiled like the lovesick fool that I was, searching for the right words, but there weren't any that truly said it all. "I can't wait. You look...wow, Bo."
Her smile stretched to the far reaches of her face, even leaving its mark in her shining eyes. She lifted my arms and draped them around her neck, pulling me withing inches of her lips. "And to think, all this 'wow' is yours, my love."
Staring into darkening eyes, I licked my lips, overcome with the usual desires that swamped my body like a tsunami whenever we were this close. "I'm a very lucky lady," I replied, my voice low and husky.
"I didn't do too bad myself. I love this suit on you." Bo smoothed down the lapels of my jacket, her hands coming to rest just above my breasts.
"I'm glad you approve." The minute I saw it, I knew she'd love me in the matching cream, tailored, waist length tuxedo jacket, silk blouse with plunging neckline and boot cut tuxedo pants. My ass really did look great in these pants.
"I do. Something about you in one of your tailored suits that just drives me crazy. All I want to do is get you out of it." She hummed as she ran her hands around my waist and down to my ass.
"Sounds like this afternoon will be a test of wills, because I would love nothing more than to see that gorgeous dress of yours in a wrinkled heap on the floor."
"God I love you."
"Mmm. I love you too." I kissed her again, soft and slow, but innocent; avoiding her attempt to rile me up with a gentle request of her tongue. If I let her in, we were both goners. I turned my head just a touch to break the kiss, but she continued up to my ear, nibbling lightly on my lobe and turning my knees to jelly.
"Bo," her name fell from my lips, hushed as if it were a secret. I struggled to maintain a sound mind. We had a party to get to. Just outside as a matter of fact. We didn't need our parents to come knocking and hearing god knows what kind of sounds.
"I love it when you whisper my name like that. I love it even more when you scream it," she growled seductively. A soft laugh reverberated against my chest. Bo finally relented, pulling back with a sexy, but wicked, grin.
"Evil temptress," I groaned, but the hint of a smile let her know I wouldn't have it any other way.
Bo reached up, her thumb rubbing something from my cheek. Probably lipstick. "You love it."
"Oh, I definitely love it and I look forward to plenty of screaming later tonight." I wiggled my brows at the pink tinge in her cheeks. "Let's do this. The sooner we start, the sooner I can have you all to myself again." I slipped my left hand into her right, our fingers intertwining like second nature as I led her from the room and out into the back yard to the applause of our guests.
XXX
The party had gone perfectly. We made the rounds, each of us getting to meet the rest of the other's respective family. The food was great. Everyone got along. There were no snafu's and our parents had finally relaxed, even though Bo's dad kept casting glances our way. Whatever was on his mind, we were sure to know soon enough.
An hour later, I ushered the last of my family from the house, repeatedly shutting down my dad's insistent comments about a prenup and the need to protect our family business. If Bo wanted one, I wouldn't have a problem with it. Actually, I was sort of expecting it, especially from a family with old money. I shut the door softly and leaned back against it, surprisingly exhausted from the few short hours of the party. The caterers were cleaning up. The tent was coming down. And Bo was sporting a serious frown as she spoke with her father, who appeared rather agitated himself.
I debated whether or not I should intervene. Hell, I was soon to be family and more importantly, I wanted to save my fiance and prevent the afternoon being ruined by a disagreement with her father. As I approached, Bo's eyes met mine with a mix of sadness and relief. She flashed a soft smile and reached for my hand.
"Hey you." She kissed my cheek.
"Hello to you," I returned with a smile of my own before addressing her father. "Hello Alyn. Thank you for the beautiful party."
"You are most welcome. I am so happy for you both. I know you two will have a wonderful life."
A small blush hit my cheeks hearing that from a man who was usually so reserved. "Thank you. We will."
I glanced at Bo and found her frowning once again with a hard glare pointed at her father, who was happily ignoring her. She chewed her lip, a subtle sign that she was about to speak her mind and from the look of her, it wasn't going to be friendly.
"Really father? You think we'll be happy?"
"Don't be ridiculous Ysabeau, of course I do. Lauren is wonderful. You are a perfect match," he said with sincerity in his eyes.
"Then why are you so insistent on this prenup. Forever doesn't need a prenup and I refuse to put stipulations on our marriage," she seethed.
"Dear, its nothing personal. Surely Lauren understands. We have to protect our family legacy. We-"
"No. Lauren will be family. There will be no prenuptials or any other kind of contracts. The only one that matters to me will be the vows we swear to one another on our wedding day." Bo's agitation was increasing and her father was at a loss.
I squeezed her hand her in the eye. "Bo, its really not important to me. I don't need more money. I can sign whatever if it makes it easier."
That was the wrong thing to say. Her killer glare stabbed me in the heart as she yanked her hand away.
"I can't even..." she shook her head sadly and walked away without another glance. "Goodbye father," she called over her shoulder as she stomped toward our bedroom.
"I am sorry Lauren. I didn't mean to ruin your day," Alyn muttered, flustered and embarrassed.
"It'll be fine Alyn, but maybe you should go."
He nodded and made his way out to his wife.
I was the one who needed to worry. I had taken her dad's side over Bo's thinking it would solve the problem and instead I made it worse. I didn't realize how important it was to her and I should have. I should know about everything that's important to the woman I will be spending the rest of my life with. My heart sunk at the revelation. The moment her parents were out the door, I sped off to our room to right my wrong.
Gently, I pushed the door open. Bo was standing at the picture window, her arms wrapped around her chest, watching the workers clear the last of the tables.
"Bo," I said softly as I took cautious steps closer.
"I can't believe you took his side," she said, still staring out the window. Her voice cracked and I knew she'd been crying.
My heart crumbled. I had to fix it. "I'm sorry. That wasn't my intention. I just... its not important to me. That piece of paper or your money. None of that matters and I don't mind signing it if it makes things easier. I only care about you. Us." I hoped she would understand my point of view.
"I know and that's one more reason I don't want the prenup. I trust you, Lauren, with everything I have. My business. My money. Most importantly, my heart. I can always make more money, build more businesses, but my heart...there's only one and it only belongs to you."
"Oh, Bo." I wanted to rush over and wrap her in my arms, but I kept my distance, not feeling the warmth between us return just yet.
She turned to me with glassy, red swollen eyes, still wrapped tight in her own embrace. "Not just that, but also because when we're married, I want us to be equal partners in every sense of the word and a contract is the complete opposite of that. No one is going to dictate terms in the most important part of my life. Only you and I will decide what happens between us."
Tears welled from the depth of her honest admission. I've said it a million times, but it will never be enough, God I loved this woman. "I get it. I really do and I really am sorry that I hurt you. I want to be your equal and I love that you trust me with your heart. I will never ever take that for granted. I love you so much, Bo." I reached for her, hoping she would take my hand and let me back in.
Seconds dragged on like days before she accepted, lacing her fingers with mine. A soft smile appeared where the tight lines of her mouth held a frown a moment ago. The pounds of weight that had found a home upon my shoulders fell away as I pulled her into my arms. I burrowed my face into her neck, inhaling the light vanilla fragrance she wore so well that always made my body sing and my heart lift. My lips dragged along her silky skin and I whispered, "I hate that our party ended in tears that weren't the happy kind, but I am so unbelievably honored that you feel that way about us."
Bo sighed and tipped her head away, purring from the soft nips and kisses I was bestowing upon her. "Me too, but I'm sure we can rewrite that ending."
"Mmmm I'd like that." My lips covered hers and my hand slipped to her side, slowly lowering the zipper of her dress. Anxious fingers wasted no time finding warm skin to caress. I captured her moan with deepening kisses as my other hand slid to her back to undo the tie. Within seconds, the designer dress was pooled in a heap at her feet. I much preferred it there anyway, instead of hiding the masterpiece that was Bo's body from me under overpriced fabric. She stood before me in nothing but a black thong and black heels.
Breathtaking.
In an instant, I was headed to my next destination. I nipped her bottom lip and then kissed my way down her throat to her breasts. Sucking a taut nipple between my teeth, Bo groaned and arched closer. I dug my fingers into her hips with intent, determined to never let this woman go.
"I'm liking the way this revision begins," she purred between heavy breaths.
Glancing up through my lashes, I was treated to the sight of her all flushed and full of desire for me. Bo leaned back in my arms with a twinkle in her eye and her bottom lip between her teeth. So fucking sexy.
My jacket hit the ground. The matching blouse and slacks were close behind. Underwear was thrown across the room. Bo wanted me naked and when Bo wanted something, there was no denying her. Like I ever would anyway.
As soon as we were both free of any and all fabrics that might deny us the places we so desperately wanted to be, Bo's body landed atop mine on as we fell onto the bed. Her toned thigh found its place between my own, pressing the very place that had been aching for her since we teased one another earlier. Without delay, hips rocked. Tongues danced. Hands roamed. Eyes met with a deeper meaning of togetherness. For long minutes on end we moved together, basking in each and every soft caress and firm stroke.
My fingers slipped inside, groaning at the overwhelming wetness that never failed to greet me. Not to be outdone, Bo followed suit, sending shock waves through my body that was already strung tight from her very talented mouth. Bo always knew just how and where to touch me.
"Together," she panted and I nodded, unable to utter a single word.
With gazes locked, her thrusts set the pace for us both. Deeper. Harder. Our pulses skyrocketed with the quickening whimpers and gasps of passion fulfilled. The feel of her tightening around my fingers was euphoric. Our rhythm grew erratic as we inched closer to release. My eyes rolled back in pleasure, our bodies tensing together with screams pleasure as we were both propelled into the heavens together.
Bo collapsed on top of me as we both gasped for air. I wrapped her in my arms and held her tight until our breathing returned to normal. She started to giggle, her body shaking against mine and the laughter vibrating throughout my chest.
"What?" I brushed the hair from her face to catch a glimpse of my beautiful fiance in all her afterglow glory.
She shook her head and grinned even wider. "Now that's the ending this day deserved."
I laughed and nodded in agreement. "Definitely." I tipped her chin up to capture her lips fully once more. "I can't wait for our honeymoon."
"Me neither. I'm getting a shirt made with a checklist for each city we plan to visit. Across the top it will say, 'I took my wife in,' and we will check each box as we go."
My mouth dropped in shock, yet I was amused and aroused. I was such a goner. "No you're not."
"I might." She wiggled her brows. "And there will be two boxes to check for Paris, since it is the city of love and all."
"Oh my god, you're so cheesy." I gave her a playful shove.
"You love it." She winked and planted tender kisses along my jaw line that made me sigh.
"I do love it. I love you, Bo. And I will proudly wear that shirt in every city after you have your wicked way with me." My heart thumped and my core ached at the possibilities.
Being married to Bo Dennis was going to be a never ending adventure and I couldn't wait for it to start.
XXX
Wedding Day
I stood at the alter on a perfect Vegas evening in our special place staring at the love of my life standing across from me with her hands in mine. We were surrounded by our immediate family. Mandy, Shawna and Charlie were along side me. Mandy held the ring. On Bo's side was her sister, her best friend from college who I'd just met, Colleen, and her closest cousin Susan, who she grew up with.
When we went shopping for our wedding attire, Bo and I agreed not to see one another and that we liked a bit of a "Gone With the Wind" theme. So here I was in a three piece cotton-wool blend, silvery-white tuxedo with a waistcoat, peaked lapel and wide knotted tie and Bo in a long flowing, strapless white gown, tapered along her curves.
I had been wrong before. This was my favorite Bo outfit ever. And the way she was smiling at me...with complete adoration...it made my stomach flutter and heart skip to the point I thought I'd need to sit down. She was divine. Angelic. A sight that was instantly burned itself into my memory for the rest of my days.
The minister opened the ceremony, but I didn't register much beyond the sight of my beautiful bride to be and the way she left me breathless. When the moment was upon us, the minister smiled and nodded, giving us the signal to read the vows we had prepared ourselves.
Bo took a deep breath and smiled brighter. "Lauren," she began with a tremble in her voice. "From the very first moment I saw you, you caught my eye, but it was your fire that stole my heart. You're passionate about the things you love; your work, cars and life and I am so very lucky, that I can say you are passionate about me. From the moment I met you, you've been making me a better person. Though its only been a little over a year, I can't imagine what my life was like before you and I never want to know a life without you. I love you Lauren Lewis, my sexy car lady, with all of my heart and then some, and I am so happy we get to spend the rest of our lives together."
My turn. I swallowed hard and took a deep breath of my own as I fought back my rising emotions. "Bo. You were impossible. Impossible to ignore. Impossible to do business with. And an impossible dream I never knew I had. I was in a committed relationship with my career. In love with cars and sales and enjoying my blissful ignorance and then you walked through my doors. I finally realized what people were always talking about when they spoke of true love. You did the impossible Ysabeau Dennis. You stole me away from cars and showed me what it was to really and truly be happy. I love you, my billionaire, buxom, brunette, bombshell and my heart will only beat for you until it doesn't beat anymore."
"Now, if you will repeat after me, "Do you Lauren Leigh Lewis, take Ysabeau Marie Dennis, to love and to cherish through good sales months and bad. In sickness and in health. To be patient during year end close out and billion dollar mergers. As long as you both shall live?
With an enormous smile plastered on my face I answered without hesitation, "I do." Mandy handed me the platinum eternity band with ten karats of brilliant round diamonds set with shared-prong. I slipped it onto Bo's finger until it was pressed against her engagement ring. I stared for a moment, trying my best to deal with the swelling of emotions rising up inside as I ran my thumb back and forth across the metal and gems. My gaze traveled up to meet hers. Such joy and love looking back at me gave me feelings I couldn't put into words, but I had never been happier in my whole life.
Bo flipped her hand, taking my fingers in hers as she repeated her vows with a smile just as big, ending with a teary eyed "I do." Kierstyn passed her the matching ring, which she slid onto my finger while mouthing the words, "I love you."
There was only one thing left to do and I couldn't wait. I just hoped we could keep it PG. With the words, "You may kiss your bride," I was surprised when neither of us jumped. Instead, we both smiled, savoring the moment as we closed the gap slowly. My arm snaked around her waist, pulling her close and her hand cupped my cheek. Our gaze never faltered until just before our lips met and my eyes fell shut. Our breaths mingled. Bo never tasted sweeter than she did right then. The kiss was everything that spoke of forever love. Slow and soft, deep and sensual. I could have kissed her for days had the hoots and hollers not caused Bo to pull away. Her cheeks flushed bright red as she dropped her head in the most bashful moment I'd ever witnessed in the typically bold woman.
I'd actually forgotten that we weren't alone and as private as I usually was, today, I was more than happy to share my love for Ysabeau Dennis with the world. Bo snuggled her face into my shoulder with a small laugh that just made me smile. I wrapped her into my arms and held her tight as our families applauded. "Its official, Bo. Your all mine," I whispered into her ear.
She looked up at me with an adoring smile. "I've always been yours, Lauren, and I am so happy your mine." One more soft kiss and we turned to face everyone. Hand and hand as wife and wife, we made our way down the aisle where we would take the wedding photos and then head to the Bellagio for the reception.
In typical Bo and Lauren fashion, we had our own plan. We did the wedding party photos with the red mountains in the background. Bo and I did one there as well, but the rest of our photos were taken with the One Hundred and a hand written "Just Married" sign on the back. One with me and Bo kissing against the door. Another in an embrace by the hood. The last couple were in the car itself; hand in hand, kissing and finally, me driving us away with our joined hands in the air.
My wife and I laughed like crazy and sang along to the radio all the way to the Bellagio. All we had to do now was enjoy the party.
XXX
The Hyde room at Bellagio was the perfect place for our reception party. It offered a fine menu, room for dinner, an expansive view of the fountains and ten thousand upscale square feet of indoor-outdoor nightclub space for the band we had hired. The design was complemented by Italian marbles, reclaimed woods, lavish chandeliers, and towering glass doors that led to a secluded Tuscan garden. When we arrived, the guests were already dancing, enjoying the horderves and having a great time. Exactly what we wanted to see. I was looking forward to the rest of our evening, but even more so to it being over and having Bo all to myself.
They announced our arrival and all eyes turned to us as we made our entrance. The entire scene felt almost royal. I squeezed Bo's hand tighter and pulled her in close as we passed through the crowd issuing thank you's to all of our well wishers.
Dinner was magnificent, the toasts were beautiful and now it was that time. Bo's smile was breath taking as she led me by the hand to the dance floor. We'd danced many times since we'd started dating, but none had the emotion of this moment. This was the beginning of a lifelong dance that neither of us knew the steps to, but were excited to learn as we went. Bo was my wife and I was hers and that held an immense amount of weight in my heart.
A woman's voice carried through the room, soft melodious and soulful as she sang Norah Jones' "You Ruined Me Now." We'd chosen that song because of our trip to Malibu when we both agreed this song represented the way we felt for one another. That still held true today and I couldn't imagine a second of my life where I wouldn't feel completely spoiled by our love for one another. Hand in hand, eye to eye, we moved in rhythm. The music and murmurs of how happy we looked fell away until there was only me and Bo. Time stood still as we danced in a universe all our own.
But like any moment, it had to end and ours was culminated by adoring applause from our guests as the song came to an end. Our movements came to a halt. We remained in place with eyes locked and loving smiles until the next song began. I relaxed my hold, ready to make our way off the floor when Bo's hand tightened on my waist.
She gently tugged me back against her where warm breath danced across the skin of my neck. "One more," she whispered.
How could I say no. "As many as you like my dear," returned between soft kisses along the edge of her jaw.
There was a man singing now, but I barely registered anything outside the universe of my stunning wife.
Dave Grohl.
"So...is this the reason you were so adamant about our wedding date?"
"Yeah. When they did that private concert for us, Dave said he wanted an invite to the wedding and when I called him, he offered to sing a few songs. Do you like it?"
"Are you kidding? I love it. I can't believe he's singing "Teenage Dream" though. Its kinda funny, yet oddly romantic."
"It really is. He's such a sport though."
"Yes he is." I turned my head to the stage and mouthed a "thank you" to Dave as we danced. He gave us a nod and a wink without missing a beat.
Dave and the boys sang several songs and then joined us for a drinks before catching their flight to their next concert back in Toronto.
We continued to dance and the night away with the girls and our parents. Once the second band was done, a DJ took over and the club lights kicked in. Even our parents were on the floor bouncing to the beat of the latest dance mixes. It was definitely a night to remember.
XXX
Around one A.M. the night was coming to an end, for us at least. The Hyde room was rented till dawn for the guests to party and one entire floor of the Bellagio had been reserved for all of the guests so no one had to drive. Bo and I however, were more than ready to embark on our two week honeymoon.
We made our escape to the cheers of our guests, stepping faster and faster until we yanked off our heels and broke off into a jog toward our getaway car.
I tossed her the keys to the One Hundred. "You drive."
"You sure?"
"Never been more sure in my whole life."
She smiled bright and nodded to herself as she opened my car door for me. As soon as I was seated, she tucked the edge of my dress inside and shut the door softly. Bo's fingers ran lovingly across the top line of the car as she made her way around the hood. Her eyes picked up mine for a split second, sparkling with a new kind of excitement. When she got behind the wheel, it was much the same as her first time. A gentle caressing of the wheel and sincere appreciation of the beauty of a classic. That gesture meant as much to me today as it did on our first date. I felt safe knowing that Bo would always handle the things she cared about with kit gloves. It wasn't an act or a ploy. She was honest to goodness that woman who wasn't just in it for the material things. Odd as it may seem, its very much the same as the way she looks at and touches me. Enraptured. Nothing else exists and there is nothing and no one in the world she would ever want more. There was no better feeling in the world than to hold the complete attention of the stunning beauty that is my wife, Ysabeau Dennis.
She turned her attention to me with wild eyes full of excitement that made my stomach do three-sixties and my heart rev like a top fuel dragster. "Where do you want to fly to first, my beautiful bride?"
I reached across, taking her hand in mine and lifting it to my lips for a soft kiss. "How about the moon?"
She smirked as she turned the key and the engine roared to life. "I only shoot for the stars."
"As long as we're together, Bo, nothing else matters."
FIN
XXX
So there you have it! Review if you please.
And just like our ladies, I will also ride off quietly into the sunset. While I will never call it a retirement, because I love Lost Girl so damn much, I have no plans to write another multi-chap fic in the near future. I may add to this later. I also have no plans to quit reading ff, so I hope there will be plenty of great stories for a long time to come.
No words can express what you have all meant to me and how much writing fanfic has helped me, but just know that this experience and all of you, my Faemily, has meant the world to me. Thanks so much for all of your support and encouragement and even your criticisms. They all build character :D
While I plan to focus on publishing, first my body has not-so-subtly commanded me to take it easy, so that's what I will do. I hope we will continue to keep in touch on twitter, fb or even here with PM's.
You can find me under S.W. Andersen on amazon or sw_andersen / somewhataddicte on twitter. And you can always email me at somewhataddictedfanfic at yahoo dot com
Much love to you all!
Faemily Forever!
SW