Untamed

by MJ Carnal

  Lily hugged her. This was home and she loved her new family.

  Lily rolled over in bed and rubbed Steve’s back. His lean body sprawled across the bed in pure exhaustion. She had almost lost him and hadn’t even known. She couldn’t imagine a world that Steve wasn’t in. He was her everything. She shivered thinking about the way he must have felt. She’d cried several times during the party. Just knowing he was thinking about her meant the world to her.

  He moaned as her fingers skimmed his perfect ass. His body was perfection. Taut, tanned skin covered his rock hard muscles. His dark eyes were mesmerizing and when they met hers, she never stood a chance. The smirk that he wore was enough to get her blood boiling. His abs were perfection, his lips were heaven. But underneath it all, was a heart of gold and she fell more and more in love with him every day.

  “I’m thinking about getting a tattoo.” Steve’s voice was blanketed in sleep. “The man that saved me had Jesus written on his truck. He was my guardian angel.”

  He rolled over and met her eyes. “I’ll get one too.” She smiled.

  “I got a second chance at life that day. I got another shot at being with you. I get up every morning and I need to remember that I’m here for a reason and that God took a gamble on me that afternoon.”

  “Do you think we’ll ever find him?”

  “No.” Steve shook his head. “But I would do anything to get a chance to say thank you.”

  “God strong.” Lily yawned.

  “What did you say?” Steve shivered.

  “God strong. My dad used to read psalms to us every night before bed. My God is my rock. He used to tell us that there would be people that we’d meet that made such an impact that it changed the direction of our lives. He called those people God Strong. The man that saved you defines that for me. He gave me a chance to love you and you’ve made all the difference for me.”

  Steve kissed her, soft and gentle, a dance of tongues. He poured every ounce of himself into the kiss. “I want to make love to you, Lily.”

  “No.” Lily rolled on top of him. “Tonight, I want to make love to you.”

  Chapter 24

  Lily sat on the floor in front of the full length mirror putting on her makeup for Caleb and Jena’s big day. Sophie stood over her putting the finishing touches on her hair. Lily couldn’t help but smile. It was a beautiful day for a wedding and she was so honored to be a part of it. She put the cap back on her lipstick with a click and looked up at Sophie. Lily and Sophie had been roommates in college. Thrown together at random, the two had become instant friends. This many years later, she still felt she could turn to Sophie with anything.

  Lily watched Jena in the mirror. Everything about this wedding screamed laid back. Jena had opted to do her own hair and makeup. She had found her dress in the first store and bought it on the spot. The bridesmaid’s dresses had been the same way, one store and done.

  Lily zipped the side of her dress. It was the most beautiful dress she had ever worn. The color was a soft neutral, just a few shades darker than Jena’s. The asymmetrical one shoulder design was flattering on all of them. She felt like a Grecian goddess. Her blond hair fell loose down her entire back. She smiled. Steve would have fun taking it off her.

  Jena smiled at her. “Can you believe it’s the big day? I feel like I’ve waited forever.”

  “I’m excited for you. Thank you for letting me be a part of it.” Lily hugged her. “It’s a beautiful day.”

  Andi hugged them both and laughed. “No sappy love stuff. Let’s get you dressed.”

  Jena had chosen a dress by David Tutera. She had been in love with his style for ages. Her obsession with his show didn’t hurt either. The bright white was set off by sequin, lace and tulle. It was gorgeous and Jena had never looked more beautiful. The gown hugged her hips and floated to the floor. It took Lily’s breath away.

  “You look gorgeous.” Lily whispered.

  “My brother is going to swallow his tongue.” Andi helped clip the veil into Jena’s hair. “I can’t wait to watch him as you walk down the aisle.”

  The knock at the door had all the girls turning around to hide Jena. Charles Allen poked his head in the door. Jena smiled at her future father in law. “Wow. You girls look gorgeous. Can an old man join you?”

  Jena stepped forward and hugged him. He had become a father to her and that was the best gift anyone could ever give her. “Is it time?”

  “It’s time. Let’s go walk down the aisle, shall we?” He extended his hand and led her from the bride’s room.

  Steve fidgeted at the altar. Caleb was the last of his friends to get married. Steve had been in a long term relationship, engaged to the woman he now affectionately called Satan, and he was the last man standing, but not for long. His hands were sweating. Getting through the next few hours would be torture on his nerves. He told himself to relax.

  As the music started, he watched as Layla stepped through the doors of the church. Her dark hair was piled on top of her head and her smile was radiant as she looked at Caleb. He’d been her rock during Ryan’s illness. Next came Sophie, Caleb’s first real love and now one of his best friends. Her carefree spirit was apparent in everything she did. Steve couldn’t help but smile at her.

  Lily stepped into the doorway and Steve forgot how to breathe. His body ached for her. She was alluring and he was addicted. With each step she took toward him, he found himself falling harder. His heart felt like it was going to explode in his chest. She had torn down all his walls, stormed the castle and put his life back together. He had been broken and she had picked up the pieces and put him back together. She had saved him. Her love had empowered him. Her smile had healed him.

  “I love you.” She mouthed as she took her place next to Sophie at the front of the church. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. In this moment, life was perfect. He was a whole person for the first time in years.

  Andi was next down the aisle, her dark hair and eyes captivating everyone. She was beautiful and had pushed for Jena and Caleb’s relationship from the moment she saw them together. She winked at Kevin as she took her place at the head of the bridesmaids. Steve always joked with her that she had super powers because she made Kevin want to settle down. If he was honest, he also meant he was glad Kevin had stopped sniffing around Lily.

  As the music changed, he saw Jena step into the doorway on Charles Allen’s arm. She was breathtaking and looked happier than Steve had ever seen her. He shifted his eyes to Caleb, who was wiping tears from his cheeks. Steve had a habit of watching the groom watch his bride walk down the aisle. The amount of love he saw in a groom’s face gave him hope for the future. Caleb did not disappoint. His eyes were wide; his breathing shallow and his face was in awe. Steve smiled. Caleb and Jena were a love story that was a long time coming. He was proud to be standing at the altar as a witness.

  He glanced at Lily and noticed she was also watching Caleb. Her emotions were written all over her face. Sensing Steve, she turned her eyes to him. Her feelings for him were so clear. He’d been a fool not to see it earlier. This gorgeous, brilliant woman wanted to be his and he’d been a coward, running for the hills. He’d almost lost her. Looking back, it was so obvious. He had fallen for her almost instantly. His body had recognized its other half. With just a touch, she healed him. With just a laugh, she soothed him. With just a smile, his world meant something.

  “Ladies and gentleman, we are gathered here today to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments. The joining of two lives, Jena’s and Caleb’s, as they become one. True love is a gift, one that is treasured. Today, we witness the joining of Caleb Allen and Jena Turner, as they make their vows in front of God to love, cherish and honor one another. Who gives this woman to be married?”

  Charles Allen lifted the veil from Jena’s face. “Her family, her friends and I do.”

  She kissed him on the cheek as he joined her hands with Caleb’s. Jena winked and wiped a tear from Caleb’s face. The simple act had
Steve longing to hold Lily and never let her go.

  “In love, no acts are two small. Love is saying you’re sorry even if pride gets in the way. Love is never being too old to hold hands. It is saying you love each other, even on days when you don’t like each other very much. Love is standing next to each other in defeat and rejoicing with each other in victory. It is learning to forgive and giving the other room to grow. It is putting someone else first and allowing them to do the same for you. Caleb and Jena have found that in one another.” The pastor closed his book. “They have decided to write their own vows. Jena, if you are ready.”

  Jena took a deep breath. “The day I met you, I knew. You drew my eye in a crowd. You made me feel joy just by being near you. You have a beautiful soul and I trust you with my life. You are my best friend and my soul mate. I promise you love, every day for the rest of our lives. I promise you loyalty and dedication. I will laugh with you through our good days and cry with you through our bad. I will be your partner and your biggest cheerleader. Today I dedicate my life to you and to your family. It is my honor and my privilege to be a part of something so amazing. I cannot wait to be your wife. Thank you for picking me. I love you.”

  Caleb squeezed her hands. “I can’t promise you that I will always put the cap on the toothpaste or pick up my socks. I can’t promise that I won’t try to sneak a peek at your cards at Moretti’s during game night. I certainly can’t promise to stay on my feet at the site of blood when you are trying to help someone. But I can promise you that for as long as you live, there will never be anyone that loves you more than I do. I promise to protect you and always have your back. I promise to make sure you know that you are the most beautiful woman in the world. I promise to stay faithful and dedicated to you every second of my life. You are home to me and there is no one else I would rather face the future with. I love you, J. With everything I have and everything that I am, I love you.”

  “It will take faith to head into the unknown future and dedication to learn to grow together. It will take trust to truly do what is best for the other and commitment to each other to always keep the other safe. But most of all, it will take love. Jena and Caleb, as you have pledged your life to one another in the presence of God and these witnesses, it is my extreme honor to pronounce you husband and wife. Jena, you may kiss your groom.”

  The church erupted in applause. Caleb dipped Jena in a passionate kiss as the music began to play. Caleb pumped his fist in the air and laughter filtered through the wedding party. Their love story was truly one that deserved a happy ending.

  Steve met Lily in the center of the church to start their trek back down the aisle. Her eyes were puffy from crying happy tears. He imagined what she would look like on their wedding day. He hoped that day would be soon.

  “You are breathtaking.” Steve whispered in her ear. “Where have you been all my life?”

  “I’ve been right here waiting for you.”

  Chapter 25

  “Is this the first reception you haven’t worked?” Lily laughed as Steve rolled his eyes at the DJ. “You’ll survive.”

  Steve laughed. “Come dance with me.”

  Lily squealed as Steve pulled her onto the dance floor. The beat of the music thumped through the room, echoing of the walls of the hotel ballroom. The guests danced and laughed as the early evening turned to night. The DJ they had hired was good and took turns alternating with the live band Caleb had hired. It could have been a good party but Steve couldn’t keep his mind on the reception. The surprise he had planned was all that occupied his mind.

  Mark had his turn, Caleb had his, and now Steve would have his. In true Steve fashion, he had called in some favors. Mark’s performance had been full of heart, Caleb’s had been based on regret. Steve’s would be full of love. He couldn’t wait to surprise Lily and make her his for life. The ring in his pocket was a constant reminder of what life had in store for them.

  Caleb waved Steve toward the side door. “I’ll be right back, baby. Caleb needs me.” Steve kissed her on the top of her head before walking away.

  He heard Damien’s laugh before he saw him. He couldn’t help but smile. As he stepped into the hall, all the members of Liquid Regret cheered. Steve motioned for them to be quiet but laughed when Damien shot him the bird.

  “Thank you for doing this. It means so much to me.” Steve fist bumped his cousin.

  “I’m not doing this for you. It gives me huge points with the sister. It’s purely selfish.” Damien winked. “I’m glad the tour schedule had us in California. Ready to go out there and make an ass out of yourself?”

  “More than ready. Is her family here yet?” Steve led the band to the stage. As the guests realized what was happening, they began to cheer.

  “Dad and mom were in the car behind us. You got this, brother.” Damien whispered.

  Lily walked toward the stage, confused. When Steve stepped to the microphone, she froze. Kevin stood next to her with a smile on his face.

  “Can I have your attention please?” Steve winked at Lily. “It all started a few years ago when Molly and Rich got married. It was the first wedding for one of us and this song began its journey. At the first reception, Mark sang this song for his sister and for the beautiful Sophie. Things may not have been exactly how any of us wanted them but they worked out better than we ever expected. At the second wedding, Ryan and Layla took their first steps as husband and wife to this song. When Mark and Sophie tied the knot, Caleb sang this song to them as a tribute to how far they had all come. Then it was Kevin and Andi’s turn, choosing it as their first dance. Today is Caleb and Jena’s day. I don’t sing but I do call in favors.”

  The guests laughed as Steve continued. “We all got quite the shock this year when Damien crashed back into our lives. He was the missing piece of our group. I couldn’t imagine this day without him here. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that he’s the lead singer of my favorite group. I stand here today passing the torch. So I’d like to propose a toast to Jena and Caleb. May you wear out the words I love you. May you feel like forever is never long enough. May you sing to each other when all the music dies. Ladies and Gentleman, I give you Liquid Regret singing the song that started it all, Marry Me by Train.”

  Jena and Caleb began to dance as Liquid Regret’s soulful sound filled the ballroom. Steve smiled at Kevin, who asked Lily to dance. Having all his friends involved in something so meaningful would be something he’d never forget. He watched as Lily’s parents slipped into the room and began to make their way to the edge of the dance floor. Mia followed, her eyes locked on Damien’s. The wedding party formed a line in front of her parents, keeping them hidden from sight.

  “You mean the world to me, doll.” Kevin kissed Lily on the cheek. “When Steve took my place in your life, it was tough to watch. But seeing how much you love him, how he looks at you, it makes it ok. We’ve been through a lot, kiddo. I love you.”

  Lily’s eyes filled with tears. “I love you too, Kev.”

  “Looks like Moretti wants to cut in.” Kevin spun Lily toward Mark.

  Lily wrapped her arms around Mark’s neck. He always smelled so good and Lily couldn’t help but smile. Mark dipped her and she giggled. “I miss having you around the house. I miss walking into the guest bathroom and having to wade through the sea of makeup and scary looking hair torture devices.”

  Lily laughed and punched him in the arm. “You didn’t think all this beauty came naturally did you?”

  Mark chuckled. “I’m glad you came home to us. We missed you.” He kissed her on the top of her head. “Looks like the groom wants to cut in.”

  “Hey stretch.” Caleb’s height dwarfed Lily and she had always felt safe by his side.

  “Hey shortie.” Lily laughed. “Why aren’t you dancing with your wife?”

  Caleb’s crooked smile lit up his face. “I have the rest of my life to dance with my wife. I wanted to dance with you. We haven’t seen each other much and I miss you.”

 
“I miss you too, C. I’m glad I’m home. When you get back from Hawaii, let’s all go out for a night.”

  Caleb sang along with the band, his voice warming her heart. “Guess my time’s up, Lil bit. Steve wants to cut in.” He spun Lily on the now completely empty dance floor.

  Lily let go of Caleb’s hand and turned. Her eyes filled with tears. Steve was kneeling in the center of the dance floor, open ring box in hand. Her steps felt like slow motion as she made her way to where he was. Liquid Regret hummed the last few notes of the song. It was her fairytale come true.

  “Lil, you surprised me. You picked me even though I was broken and lost. You saw through all the sadness and found the real me. You saw me. You pushed me out of the darkness and stood by my side when I tried to find hope again. Lord knows, you gave me every chance to see you back. The day you walked out of my life, I knew I would have to fight to get you back in. I love you with my heart, my soul, my everything. I see you now and I won’t ever let you go. My lips were made to kiss only yours. My hands were made to hold only yours. My heart was made to beat with yours. Spend the rest of your life with me? Baby, will you marry me?”

  Lily threw her arms around him, knocking him onto his back. She kissed him and shook her head yes. Their kiss deepened, and she sighed. “Yes.” She said against his lips.

  Steve sat up, laughing. He slipped the ring on her finger and she shivered. It was beautiful and simple. The one carat center stone was surrounded by tiny diamonds that sparkled like fireworks. The platinum band was dainty and feminine and looked perfect on her slender finger. “Your mom and Mia helped me pick it out last night.”

  “My mom?” Lily looked up at the people around them. “Oh my God, daddy.” She squealed as she launched herself into his arms.

  “Your mom and I are proud of you, baby girl. We think Steve is the perfect choice. We wouldn’t have missed this moment for anything.”

  “I love you daddy.” Lily cried against her dad’s shoulder. She held her hand out to Steve, who took it and stepped into her. “I love you, Steve Wainwright. I can’t wait to be your wife.”