The preacher asked for the rings and we repeated the 'I DO's'. After the preacher said a short prayer to bless us he looked from us to all our friends and family and announced, "With the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Larkin Nayler. You may kiss your bride.”
As Larkin and I shared our first kiss as a married couple I heard the whistles and hollers. Those football boys were relentless. We broke apart and the music started as we walked back down the aisle, grabbing Evie on the way as Larkin carried her on his hip. I stopped to kiss my mom’s cheek and Larkin kissed his mom's cheek. After we made it into the hotel he sat Evie down and swooped me up into his arms. "You look so damn sexy and beautiful baby. I can't believe you’re my wife. I love you." Larkin kissed me again as the bridal party started filling the room.
"Ok you two, calm down before you get her pregnant again. I mean Uncle Gage sounds pretty kick ass but let’s not make it a public affair." Gage smacked Larkin on the back.
I rolled my eyes and joked, "Pretty sure it takes more than a kiss to get pregnant asshat."
Maggie came up beside our group and stated, "Ok, while everyone is at cocktail hour it’s time for pictures."
We all followed her back to the beach for pictures. I couldn't wait to see how they turned out, the sun was setting and the sky was a beautiful mixture of pinks, purples, blues, and oranges. I couldn't wait to see the picture of Larkin holding me and Evie while Gage and the rest of the bridal party watched us from a distance, which was my new life. My life was no longer Jenna Reylan, best friend of Gage Tucker, but it was now Jenna Nayler, wife of Larkin Nayler.
After pictures where finished we were announced by the DJ and sat at our table. As dinner was served Gage stood and tapped his glass for attention. He was not only the guy who walked me down the aisle but also Larkin's best man. Gage cleared his throat before he spoke, "Good evening everyone. As many of you know Jenna and I grew up together so getting to be a part of her special day means so much to me. I met Larkin a little over two years ago in college. Things for Larkin and I didn't start out the best but over time I grew to love him and not just because he was always at my apartment eating my food and being stuck up Jenna's arse but because he is an awesome guy. I had big shoes to fill tonight and I'm hoping Jenna's dad is looking down and approved of my role. I know he's looking down on his daughter with tears wishing he could be here but I know how proud he is. Larkin and Jenna are so lucky to have found each other. Jenna has been my best friend for almost twenty two years, now it’s time I let her go. Jenna and Larkin are best friends now. Jenna, I love you babe. You have driven me crazy and you have made me happy. We have a lifetime of memories to remember. You will always be my number one girl. Larkin, good luck man, our girl can be crazy at times. I love you both, here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, health, wealth, and kick ass football. Jets Baby!" Everyone laughed and toasted as Gage walked over to kiss my cheek and shared a man kinda hug with Larkin.
My sister stood next, "Well I'm not sure how the hell to follow that, Gage. I'm Mackenzie, Jenna's younger sister. I have looked up to Jenna since I was little. I remember one night a few years ago when Jenna was telling me about this sexy football player at school. She couldn't get the smile off her face, I knew then that Larkin was someone special. Seeing how happy she is tonight lets me know that life is worth all the hurt just to see these moments. My sister can be a pain in the ass but somehow Larkin can handle her kind of crazy. Our dad is looking down right now bragging to all his heaven friends about his gorgeous daughter. Our dad and Jenna had a special kind of father/daughter relationship so with him not being here today is hard. Gage did an awesome job and I know our dad is proud. Larkin and Jenna, I love you both and wish you a lifetime of joy. Cheers"
Mac handed the microphone off to Cobie. Cobie dabbed her eyes and smiled at Larkin and I. “Jenna, I want to thank you for giving me my brother back. I can see how happy you make him and how much you two love each other. It’s no secret you saved my brother. I knew the first time I met Jenna that she was the one for Larkin, even though she kept saying over and over she wasn’t. Thanks to Jenna and Larkin I have the most beautiful niece and a new beautiful sister. I never thought I would get that. Larkin changed when he met Jenna, he went back to the Larkin I grew up with, the one I loved and adored as a big brother. May you both love each other like crazy and remember Larkin, Jenna is always right. Love you both.” After toasting again everyone settled for dinner.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. At this time I would like the new Mr. and Mrs. Nayler on the dance floor for their first dance.
Larkin grabbed my hands and pulled me onto the dance floor. As the words to Train’s Marry Me started playing I sank into Larkin’s strong arms and said, "Thank you for making all my dreams come true. I love you."
Larkin looked down into my eyes and kissed me. When he pulled back he said "Baby, you and Evie are my dreams come true. Everything else is just extra. I have no idea where I would be without you. I love you."
We danced the rest of the song in silence just looking into each other’s eyes. When the song ended Larkin kissed me and we both whispered I love you.
Gage walked up beside Larkin and shook his hand. Gage pulled me into a hug as the DJ spoke, "Now we would normally do the father daughter dance. Mr. Tucker and Mr. Nayler have made previous arrangements. Mr. Tucker would like this dance with the bride."
As Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years played Gage pulled me to him. "I'm so proud of you babe. You are so damn special Jenna, don't ever forget that. You're a one in a million kinda girl. Thank you for being my best friend and loving me." Gage kissed the top of my head.
I leaned back to look into his eyes and asked, "Gage do you have any idea how amazing you are? One day some girl is going to see how truly amazing you are. When that happens I'll be there to tell you I told you so. Thank you for being my best friend and standing by my side, always. I love you."
When the song ended Gage and I stepped off the dance floor while Larkin and his mom danced. Gage went to talk to the DJ while I watched Larkin laughing with his mom. When Gage walked back over Larkin and his mom's dance was ending. Larkin walked over and kissed me then turned to Gage, "Work it out, man?"
Gage smiled at me and nodded, "Sure did."
The DJ came back on the speakers, "Ladies and Gentlemen we have another special request from the groom and best man. They want to dedicate this song to their girl and her daddy who is watching down on her, smiling." Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton started playing and I couldn't hold my tears back.
Both Gage and Larkin hugged me. Gage pulled away and walked to my mom. I looked over to see him hugging my mom, when our eyes met he smiled. I saw the sadness in his eyes but also saw the joy. He was happy for me but it was breaking his heart letting me go. We had been together since we were babies now we would be nearly three thousand miles apart. This really was our goodbye, nothing would be the same between us after today. He would always have a special place in my heart but Larkin came first.
We cut the cake and of course Larkin didn't play nice and smashed it all over my face but I got him back. I tossed my bouquet and Sadie caught it, good thing since baby number two for her and Tyler would be here in seven months. Larkin tossed my garter that he slipped onto a football, of course, and Trent caught it, go figure. Leave it to the manwhore.
We spent the evening dancing and enjoying our family and friends until Maggie told us it was time for us to leave. Larkin had planned our honeymoon all by himself. I had no idea where we were going or what we were doing other than we would be gone for ten days. Larkin took it as far as to buy me all new clothes just for the honeymoon.
The DJ announced we would be leaving to our friends and family. After a tearful goodbye to Evie I was looking for Gage as we made our way out but I couldn't find him. Just as we reached the limo I felt a hand on my elbow.
I turned to see Gage and flung my arms around him and whispered, "I was so wo
rried I would leave without seeing you!"
"Not a chance in hell, babe. Have fun on your honeymoon and be safe. Love you." Gage kissed my cheek.
"Love you too." I kissed his cheek and squeezed him a little tighter because I wasn't sure when I would see Gage again.
"This is our beautiful goodbye babe. Now go live you’re happily ever after." Gage kissed my temple then turned and faded into the crowd.
I climbed into the limo with Larkin following me. We were on our way to start our lives together. Who knew what our futures held but as long as I had my family I could face anything. I had my beautiful goodbye with Gage and now I was going to have my beautiful ever after with Larkin and our little girl. Oh, and Dollie.
EPILOGUE
SIX MONTHS LATER
Opening the bathroom door I looked into our room, Evie and Dollie snuggled in our bed sleeping peacefully. Larkin should be home from practice soon. I was so damn nervous. I wasn’t sure how he was going to react.
I heard the front door open then Larkin’s deep sexy voice call out, “Babe, Evie, are you home?”
Walking out of our room I looked over the stairs to see Larkin looking around and said, “Shh Evie’s sleeping.” I tried hiding the envelope and bag behind my back as I took the steps slowly down to my waiting husband. When I reached the last step he was waiting and pulled me to him, crashing his lips to mine.
“I fucking love you so much, baby,” Larkin breathed between kisses.
Breaking our kiss I stepped back and smiled. “I have something for you.” I handed him the envelope and bag, and prepared myself for the worst.
Larkin scrunched his eyebrows and looked from me to the items in his hands. He asked, “What’s this?”
Shrugging I replied, “Just open it.”
Larkin opened the envelope and saw the card front. It was a picture of Evie sitting on the beach but in the sand it said ‘BIG SISTER’. Larkin brought his bottom lip into his mouth and chewed it. Opening the card he read aloud, “Daddy, mommy and me love you and so will baby number two and three!”
Larkin just stared at the card. I wasn’t sure what was going through his mind. I asked hesitantly, “Babe? You ok?”
Larkin brought his insanely dark brown eyes up to my sea green eyes, his were filled with tears. “Baby, I am more than ok. I am so in love with you right now. Knowing we are having another baby makes me the happiest and luckiest guy in the world.” Larkin picked me up and I instantly wrapped my legs around his waist. He kissed me, full of passion and love.
“Correction, that’s two more babies, I’m having twins. My doctor said this pregnancy won’t be easy and I will be constantly monitored and most likely end up on bed rest. Now open the bag!” I giggled.
Larkin pulled the tissue paper out and grabbed the shirt tucked inside. He smiled as he read, “Anyone can make a baby but only the best make two at a time.” Babe, you amaze me. I can’t believe we’re having twins.”
Laughing I said, “Believe it baby, I guess all that practice made perfect.”
Larkin smiled and pulled my face to his as he said, “Well I was always told practice makes perfect. Maybe we should start practicing for next time. You know, it’s never too early for practice.”
“I never thought this would be my life. Thank you for never giving up and walking away. I love you,” I whispered.
“I told you I’m never going anywhere and I never will. I’m here for good baby. I still don’t know how I got so fucking lucky. I love you.”
Smirking, I trailed kisses up his jawbone and said between kisses, “It’s those damn tattoos and piercings that keep me around.”
**Bonus scene between Gage & Larkin**
Larkin eyed Gage as he followed him into his room and he shut the door. Turning to face him Larkin tilted his head and asked, "What do you want, Tucker?"
Gage narrowed his eyes into tiny little slits and clinched his fists. "Larkin, Jenna means more to me than anything in this fucking world. She has been hurt and she's broken, she has worked so hard just to get to the point she's at now. I swear if your dumbass hurts her I will kill you."
Larkin brought his eyes up to meet Gage's fiery stare. If Larkin didn't know better he would think Gage was in love with Jenna. He taunted, "You’re in love with her, aren't you?" Larkin smirked.
Gage started to shake his head and said, "It doesn't matter. We're best friends, have been ever since I can remember. Jenna has been put through hell and I was there to put the damn pieces back together, don't make me do that again. My world revolves around her."
Larkin stood, walking across the room and put his hand on Gage's shoulder. "I have no plans on hurting her. Trust me, I see how special that girl is. I am beyond in love with her, Gage. She means more to me than I ever thought possible. I have never felt this way and it scares me shitless but I am not going to ruin this."
Gage hung his head before pulling it back up and smiling at Larkin. "It's impossible not to love her. She is wild and crazy but she is also the most amazing girl in the world. She is my girl. I want to trust you, I do man, but I know about you. I know your past and you’re exactly the kinda guy I warned Jenna about. I can't let her go through another Jacob."
Walking back across the room Larkin looked out the window. He sighed and asked, "What happened to her?"
Gage shook his head. "She got hurt. Bad. Jacob took everything from her. He took everything from me, from her family. The Jenna you know is nothing like the Jenna I grew up with. She is slowly getting back to her old self but I know she will never be the same. Some things that happened, that Jenna had to go through changes you and not just for a little while but for life. I had to watch Jenna fight and struggle. She wanted to give up but I was there pushing her, never allowing her to quit. You will never understand how much Jenna means to me. I swear I will do whatever it takes to protect her. This is your warning.” Gage's eyes got dark and his voice lowered as he warned, "Hurt her and I will end you. Jenna is my girl, my world."
Larkin fixed his eyes on Gage, "I may not be perfect but I'm not my past Gage. I am not that person anymore. Jenna means a lot to me and if you haven't noticed I mean a lot to her. I want Jenna, I love Jenna. She has changed me in so many ways and she will never understand how thankful I am that she came into my life."
Gage nodded as he said, "She loves you, I know it. She won't say it. That’s not her, she has only told one other guy except me that she loved him and he ripped her apart. She is just protecting herself. If you love her, give her time to accept what is happening. Just realize Jenna and I are a package deal, you want her you get me too. I will always be by her side so if you have a problem with that then you should walk away now."
"Gage, when are you going to understand? I'm not going anywhere, I fucking love her. With you or without you Jenna means a hell of a lot to me. I like you Gage, I really do but you’re not going to scare me away."
Looking at a picture Gage lowered his voice and said, "I want to like you too but no one, and I mean no one is more important to me than her. Don't fuckin’ forget that. I want Jenna happy and if that’s with you then I will have to accept it. I love her too much to not want to see her happy."
Larkin didn't have a chance to say anything else before Gage opened his bedroom door and walked out.
Beautiful Goodbye was my debut novel in the Beautiful Series. Be on the lookout for book two in the Beautiful series in late spring/ early summer 2013.
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Acknowledgments
First would have to be my awesome, kick ass hubby. He has supported me from day one, no matter how crazy I got or the mounds of dirty laundry he had to walk around. He had to play mommy and daddy a lot during this process and I am so thankful he did it, with very little complaining haha! He doesn’t know it but he gave me so much inspiration
for the characters. Without him none of this would have been possible. Love him xoxo
My beautiful little girls. Thank you so much for cooperating (for the most part) during the day and letting me write. Always keeping a smile on my face and keeping me entertained. Mommy loves you, even when you’re little evil monster divas.
My family, thank you for standing beside me and supporting me. You all have helped keep my dream alive and going.
Megan, I adore you! You are the very first person I told about my book and the first person to read it. You always had the words I needed to hear when I was to the breaking point and ready to give up. Thank you for all your support and encouragement.
Kathy. You started as just my editor but over the days you grew to be an awesome friend. From our random texting all day to our messaging at night, you were there to help me through this process. I must say you’re one amazeballs editor and friend! Watch out Vegas…we’re coming for you!
J.B. McGee. Thank you so much for the awesome cover, I love it and look forward to working with you in the future!
Amy Phillips, thank you for being crazy and for the inspiration! Without you one of my favorite scenes wouldn’t have happened. You rock!
My Smutty W hores, I flippin love you all! You kept my creative juices flowing. All those late nights were a little easier thanks to the random conversations and viewing material.
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