“Ms. Busybody, Alex.” He laughed. “She said she had mine in her purse. I had yours in the safe at the bar. She wasn’t giving up on that one.”
“I still can’t believe everything that’s happened. I’m really sorry I screwed things up.”
“I’m not. It’s perfect. You’re now my precious wife, and I couldn’t be happier.”
We spent the day enjoying each other and sightseeing. We met up with Alex, Grayson, and the twins, Kristina, Zoe and Brent for dinner. The twins were a bit fussy with the time change, so Kristina took them back to their suite.
From all of the comments at dinner, Harrison had made fabulous arrangements for everyone. They all shared the details of their villas, and each one sounded different, but completely amazing.
***
We spent two more days at the hotel enjoying everything the area had to offer. Sightseeing in Salerno, Vietri sul Mare, Pompeii, and Positano kept us busy. Sometimes we were with the other couples, and sometimes we were alone. The time went by way too fast. The days were spent taking everything in, the nights were full of sweet, magical moments being loved by the man who stole my heart.
The last night, Zoe and Alex had an impromptu “No Longer a Bachelorette” party for me. We had an enjoyable time celebrating in the solarium of our chalet while the guys sat out on the terrace smoking cigars.
“Hmm, this is a really small box. I’m not sure I can handle what’s on the inside?” I poked fun at Alex, remembering back to her party in Bora Bora and how embarrassed she’d been at the Wonder Wabbit vibrator I’d given her.
“Oh, I think you can,” Alex quipped. “Hey, Harrison, we got a little something for Monica. You want to come see it?”
“Don’t you dare call them in here.” I shook my finger at her.
“Too late, we’re all here. Let’s see what’s in the box,” Harrison uttered, standing in the doorway to the solarium.
All eyes were on me as I picked at the last package. I slowly opened the wrapped box, trying to get a glimpse of the contents, a prelude to the embarrassment sure to come.
“Need some help with that, baby?”
The guys gave each other a fist bump.
There he was in all his plastic glory… Portable John, a blow-up doll for travelers.
The room roared with laughter. The quips quickly started coming.
“Dude, you’ve been replaced by a blow-up,” Grayson shouted at his brother.
“Where can I get one of those?” Zoe asked.
“Don’t even think of buying my wife one of those,” Brent chimed in.
“Where did you get that, Alexandra? Do you have something at home I don’t know about?” Grayson asked his wife while teasingly pulling her close.
“Yes, my secret is out. I’m having a side relationship with my blow-up John. Are you jealous?” Alex gave it right back to him.
The scene was hysterical. I’d heard of blow-up dolls before, but only in the female sense. Alex was a riot. I expected payback for my gifts to her, but she took it to the top.
“I’ve never seen such. Wherever did you find my portable Prince Charming?” I asked her.
“There’s this online bachelorette party store. It was hard to control myself.” She giggled.
“Did you order anything for us?” Grayson asked.
“Don’t you remember the—” She quickly covered her mouth in embarrassment, having realized she was just about to spill some secrets. Timid, shy Alexandra had come out of her kinky shell.
The room roared in multiple conversations, and the party carried on for hours.
***
Everyone had their schedule to meet at the dock to board the yacht for breakfast. Harrison and I arrived early to greet our guests. As we made our way down the dock, Harrison chatted away about all the amenities aboard the boat. Over the last few weeks, I had pictured a simple, sailboat and found myself flustered in shock, standing beside the small ship named My Swan by Benetti.
“When you said private yacht, you didn’t mention the size.”
“Sweetheart, the seas can be rough. The size is important for stabilization. Plus, we have our own private area.”
Boxes peppered the dock area with a maze to find the way to board. After everyone arrived, Alex and Zoe helped organize the boxes and found the ones from the florist. I laughed at myself, recalling the stress over the flowers during the wedding planning. Ironic how they no longer mattered to me. The guys carried the heavy boxes of champagne onto the yacht without complaint, but the moment we asked them to assist with the bags, it became a perpetual whine from all three of them.
The master closet was huge. I was deep in the back, hanging up my things, when I felt large masculine hands come around and encircle my waist and tender kisses on my neck. He slowly walked me backwards and turned us around, so my knees bumped the bed. He laid me on the bed, and I giggled.
“We have guests waiting on us,” I uttered through my laughter.
“They’re all enjoying themselves; they won’t miss us.”
We were lying in each other’s arms and chatting away, when the sound of a helicopter really close, startled me. Then, the yacht began to vibrate.
“Oh shit, they’re early,” he said, flinging himself off the bed.
“What’s that noise?”
“A surprise for you.”
We quickly dressed and ran up to the front of the yacht.
A helicopter had landed on the top of the yacht.
Seriously.
I looked at Harrison in shock. Then I felt the tap on my shoulder. I turned to my find my mom and Cooper standing there.
“Mom, Cooper? How did you…the helicopter?”
“Your wonderful fiancé, well, husband I hear, made sure we were able to make it.”
“Oh, Mom! This is wonderful.”
“Hey what am I, chopped beef?” Cooper laughed as he pulled me into his arms.
“That’s supposed to be chopped liver,” I jabbed back.
“Hmm, nope, I’m a beefcake baby. No liver here.”
We all laughed. I shook my head, still in dismay at the chain of events. Alexandra came out from her cabin and hugged me.
“Were you surprised?” she asked.
“Yes. These Brooks boys are just full of themselves, aren’t they? Always pulling great surprises.”
“Hmm yes, yes, they do.”
Everyone gathered on the main deck, and I introduced them to my mom. She fell in love with the twin girls, and I lost her attention for a while, so I sat and watched her playing with the babies. It made my heart ache, knowing I wouldn’t be able to give her grandchildren anytime soon, since adoptions took so long to process. And with her poor health, I didn’t know how long I’d have her around.
Harrison sat down beside me and nuzzled my cheek. “Everything okay, sweetheart?”
“Perfect. But how did you pull this off?”
“Cooper helped. That’s why he didn’t come out on the plane with us; he was waiting on your mom’s treatment.”
“I love you so much; I don’t know what I ever did to deserve you.”
“You loved me despite my flaws, and I’ll spend the rest of my life worshiping you.”
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Beautiful arrangements of pale pink peonies, large white lilies, pink and white roses adorned the front of the ship. The short aisle had been transformed with chairs and adorned with a white silk runner and pink rose petals.
“It’s beautiful. Perfect,” I said, hugging Alexandra and Mom. “Thank you both for everything.”
“Welcome. Now, let’s get you in that gorgeous dress of yours. Have you shown it to your mom yet?”
“No, but I’ve heard lots about it,” Mom answered.
My dress was something of a collection of thoughts I’d had and I couldn’t make up my mind. I’d wanted something simple, elegant, and body hugging. I thought surely Bianca would shoot me over all of my ideas and changes, but she didn’t and I stood in admiration of the dr
ess she delivered.
The champagne satin skirt with small train hugged my body perfectly. The beaded sweetheart neckline accentuated the curve of my breasts, and I was certain Harrison would approve with that turned up smirk he always gave me when he was aroused.
The best part of the gown was the back, which was completely open down to my rear end. There was a strand of pearls that went across my shoulders from side to side and a strand of pearls that dangled down the back like a necklace, ending in a large, tear-drop shaped pearl with extra beading. Simply divine.
I stood in front of the mirror and couldn’t believe the turn of events over the last six weeks—from Harrison’s proposal to the shotgun wedding before the real wedding, to my mom and Cooper arriving by helicopter.
“You look beautiful, dear,” Mom said as she hugged me. She looked gorgeous in a beaded pale blue jacket dress and it fit her perfectly.
“Mom, I’m so glad you’re here. It means everything to me. What changed your mind about coming?”
“Your wonderful husband did. He made all the arrangements, sent me this amazing dress to wear, and even has a doctor on standby in Italy just to reassure me.”
“Are you feeling okay? This isn’t all too much, is it?”
“No, they gave me extra vitamins and medicine right before we flew out. I’m fine, sweetheart. Don’t worry about me.”
“I hate to interrupt, but I need your wedding band?” Alexandra stuck out her hand.
“No. Why? I haven’t taken it off since we were married in Chicago.” I subconsciously stuck my hands behind my back.
“Hey, what’s all that about? It’s just for the ceremony today. You’ll get it back in a few minutes.”
I removed my ring and for the first time, realized there was an inscription on the inside.
My eternity
I trembled in excitement knowing my Harrison, my lover, my husband was waiting for me at our celebration altar.
I handed Alexandra my ring. “I’m ready. Let’s go.”
I stood at the opening of the ship’s bow surrounded by beautiful music. My gorgeous, hunky groom wearing a huge smile and surrounded by family, stood at the altar waiting for me. I joined his side with record speed ready to recite my vows to him once again.
***
“I want to make the first toast. To my bride, I’m so grateful you came into my life. Every day I love you more and want to spend a lifetime making you happy. To the rest of you, thank you all for joining us at this celebration. To my brother and his beautiful bride, happy first anniversary! Cheers.”
We were married at sunset on the bow of the ship with the Captain performing the ceremony. The beautiful Amalfi coastline served as a gorgeous backdrop. The ship had an impeccable crew, and they made certain our guests enjoyed themselves. Even Kristina had a great time, dancing with one of the ship’s First Officers, who happened to be from California, just like her.
The next surprise of the night came when the chef wheeled out a wedding cake decorated with sparklers and flavored with champagne and raspberries. Unimaginable. I was truly living a life-size fairy tale.
“So both of my best friends marry their Prince Charming, who happen to be twins. How does that happen?” Cooper asked while we were dancing.
“I don’t know, but you’re the common denominator.”
“You mean I can take credit for this?” He twirled me in laughter.
My husband cut in and for the rest of the evening, made certain to keep me in his arms, his alpha-male personality shining through.
When we retired to our bedroom, I found it a bit strange knowing everyone was so close to us. He assured me the owner’s suite was completely private. In fact, he turned up the music in our room and sent me down the hall to see if I could hear it, just to prove his point.
Not that I was a loud screamer, mind you, but well, okay…maybe a little loud, and I wanted to enjoy being with my real husband and not the blow-up one!
When I went down the hall, I couldn’t hear a thing.
Damn, I hated it when I had to admit to him he was right.
***
I stepped back into our suite, and his mouth came down hard on mine before he quickly turned me around with my back to him. His lips trailed down the back of my neck. The slightest touch left my senses on overload, my desire for him holding my breath hostage.
“You’re stunning in this dress. Your body’s been tormenting me all evening.” He reached for the hem of my gown and slid his hands slowly up my legs, revealing my nakedness underneath. He took a deep breath.
When I turned my head around to see him, I noticed his nostrils flaring in arousal. A sexy smile adorned his lips.
He was pleased.
He leaned me forward, taking my left hand with his up against the wall. With his other hand, he unfastened the pearls, allowing my dress to slip down to the floor.
“I’m glad I didn’t know the only thing sparing you from nakedness was one pearl.” He uttered against my neck before taking delicious small bites.
I heard the release of his zipper. The dress and the rest had him in need, had us both in need. I felt his erection against my lower back. I craved him, that closeness we shared when making love.
He carried me to the bed. The staff had already turned down the covers. He hovered over me, but I needed him closer and pulled at his tux jacket with both fists. His hands tangled my hair. His mouth hard on mine. His desire to possess me, firmly between us.
When he pulled back away from me, I moaned in complaint; however, he slowly undressed giving me the chance to ogle his gorgeous, manly body.
When he returned to me, I expected him to be aggressive and needy, but he loved me just the opposite, slowly and sweetly, taking his time for us both to enjoy the moment.
***
The music played on softly throughout the night, and I rested in light slumber, never going into deep sleep. I felt the bed shift when he slipped out of it and moments later heard him draw a bath in the large Jacuzzi.
Strange, I thought. Harrison never took a bath, so that was something I had to peek in on.
I peered between the cracks of the French doors enclosing the master bathroom, and I covered my mouth to hide my gasp. I saw candles and rose petals through the door. I also saw his hands moving, with something red, but couldn’t make out what it was.
He turned toward the door, and I quickly bolted back to bed, but he caught me, throwing open the doors.
“Were you spying on me?” he asked with a low, sexy growl behind me.
I stopped in midstride. “Hmm,” I muttered. I bit my lower lip, trying to stifle my laugh. I think the jiggling of my body gave me away.
“Come to me,” he ordered.
I turned slowly toward him, piqued with interest and anticipation. He extended his arms to me and pulled me close to his naked body. Holding me, he caressed my skin and nibbled on my shoulder. Then he pulled away and led me by the hand to the bathroom, the quiet seduction heavy in the air.
When he opened the doors again, the most beautiful scene awaited me. Candles flickering on every horizontal surface, rose petals scattered on the floor, presents stacked on the counter, and a buffet of munchies with a side order of champagne and juice called out to me.
“How did you do all of this?”
“I messaged the staff. They put a tray by the door. I haven’t seen you eat anything all day other than the piece of wedding cake I fed you.”
“I’ve been too busy to eat much.”
“Well then, I’ll feed you. Come with me.”
The warm water felt amazing, but the strong arms around me completed me. I relaxed back against his body and entwined my legs with his. He fed me berries, pretzels, hummus, and a variety of cheeses in between sweet kisses and soft touches.
“I’m in total awe of your bridal gown design. You were incredibly stunning today.”
“Why, thank you.”
“I’d like you to have the same gown made in red for a gala
we’ll be attending next month. Do you think she could pull that off in time?”
“I’m sure, but I’ll confirm. What’s in the packages?”
“In due time, princess.”
“Now that we’re married, don’t you mean queen?” I splashed water at him.
“Come here, my queen. I’m a slave for you,” he said with a sarcastic chuckle.
I was all too grateful that ship came with a drain built into the floor for excess water. We got a little rowdy in the Jacuzzi and sent water everywhere. I loved the playful side of Harrison.
After our water play, Harrison sat down on the bench by the tub and watched me. I reached for my robe hanging on the door, but he grabbed my wrists and stopped me, pulling me to face him. He handed me the larger of the boxes. The wrapping was special, resembling handmade rice paper and smelling of lavender. Inside, an exquisite red silk robe was wrapped in tissue. Red, his favorite color for me. The robe fit me perfectly. He used the sash as leverage to pull me onto his lap.
“Whenever you wear red, know you’re wearing it for me.” He smiled coyly.
The next box was smaller, and my mouth watered with anticipation for its contents. I reached for the box and he laughed.
“My queen is an eager one.”
“Only because you spoil me. May I?” I teasingly pouted.
His smile was blinding and the gleam in his eyes, electrifying. I slowly opened the same special wrapping to discover a red lace bra and matching panties, so soft in my hands, I could only imagine how they would feel sliding off my flesh as he slowly removed them.
He stood in front of me and presented another box I hadn’t seen. This box wasn’t wrapped, though, a black velvet box generally meant jewelry. I couldn’t imagine what he had picked out for me.
Inside was a gleaming platinum cuff charm bracelet with rubies decorating the end caps.
“These unscrew so you can add more charms. I had them made for you.”
The bracelet bore three charms separated by beads with rubies circling them. A small wedding band, a house charm, and one shaped like a boat.
“Okay, the wedding band and boat I get. The house?” I searched his eyes for answers, but they were strong and fierce, giving nothing away. This man knew how to keep secrets and pull off surprises very well.
The Running Series Box Set: Books 1-3 Page 55