Author’s note:

I’ve found in writing stories that I struggle finding the right balance between not enough and too much. This was the case with my S.L.E.P. - Sacrificial Life Extension Project story. A few commenters suggested they wanted more of the story with Declan and Emma and, believe me, that I considered adding it into the story. The emphasis for the original S.L.E.P. story was the joyous fulfillment of a Christmas wish; the heartwarming moment when Declan and Emma came together and the rest of the world faded into oblivion. If I added more to the story I felt it would diminish that moment and detract from the everything that I was trying to build towards.

Last night I couldn’t stop the ideas from coming about what Declan and Emma’s year was like. For those that wanted to know, here it is. If you haven’t read S.L.E.P. - Sacrificial Life Extension Project, you might want to read that one first.

Enjoy!

Casey Brooke

***

S.L.E.P. – Homecoming

The clamor of laughter and giggles was gone as the children were escorted back to their rooms. I had been grateful for the momentary distraction of the noise to help my heart and mind settle from Declan’s declaration of his love for me, a person he has never met but feels he knows intimately. I don’t think I ever smiled so much or laughed so freely before in my life. I guess this is what happens when your Christmas dreams come true.

Looking across the room with the sparkling red, green, and blue lights of the Christmas tree and bits of shredded wrapping paper on the ground, I realized the best presents don’t come in packages. Declan’s smile was captivating and the way he looked at me made me feel like I was the most precious gem in the entire world.

The twenty feet between us felt like a vast cold expanse of space; for he was Earth to my being the moon. The gravitation was so strong I could feel my heart being pulled into his strong arms. Over the past hour of handing out gifts to the children it’s not as if we didn’t sneak kisses and touches with each other, but the children had to come first. Now with them safely back in their beds, I could no longer stand even the short distance that separated us.

Rushing over to Declan, he calmed me by placing both hands on my face and kissing me with the most passionate kiss I’ve ever felt.

“You ready to meet some very special people in my life, Emma?”

“Don’t tell me you’re married and you have kids and that Nancy is just your mistress on the side.” I said it jokingly, but I needed reassurance. It wasn’t that long ago that Nancy had burst into the hospital professing her love for Declan and I know Nancy isn’t a person to give up without a fight.

“Not married, but want to be. No children, but I can’t wait to have some. No mistresses either.”

“What happened with Nancy, if you don’t mind my asking?”

“I almost forget that you know Nancy. I took a trip to Paris, Italy, and Nepal earlier this year and I met Nancy in Paris. She was very easy to talk to and she showed me around the town. We sort of hit it off and when I returned from my trip, we began dating.”

I winced. The thought of Declan in someone else’s arms was my worst nightmare even though I chided myself in that I have no claim on him other than the love in my own heart. “Nancy is a great conversationalist.”

“I believe Nancy’s intent was to marry me and I know she loved me, but I couldn’t commit and over the last few months we had many fights.”

“Was it because of me? Do you think you can patch things up?”

Declan smiled and kissed me calming the ragged edges of my fears that everyone I’ve ever loved had left me.

“If I’ve learned anything about you over the past year, it’s how self-sacrificing you are. I’m sure if I even hinted that Nancy and I might get back together you would quietly go home.” I bit my lower lip. “Yes, it was you. How could I commit to Nancy when you came to me every night in my dreams? How could I yield to her desires when I was in love with the person that gave of themselves to the point of being willing to die for me? Of course, it was you, Emma. It will always be you.”

Declan kissed me once again before continuing. “The truth is that I had never told her that I was a woman before. I never told her that her craving for things and her own self-interests made it hard to be with her. I never, ever, wanted to hurt her, but our relationship would have never worked. Last night she made a toast at dinner and assumed a role as a part of the family. I was angry. I felt she was being manipulative and so I left. All night I thought about what mattered most to me and all night I was reminded how her desires were contrary to my own. Then, I found myself here and I went to my old room. I didn’t know what to expect but the emptiness I found made me realize I had to move on. I was a fool not to see what was right in front of me.”

“I can’t tell you how many times I said that to myself over the past year. Is that when you found me?”

“Yes. All the logic in my brain evaporated the moment I saw you. There was nothing on Earth that could have stopped me from coming to you. Nothing until Nancy… I’m not the kind of person that wants to see other people hurt, but for the first time in my life I realized I would be hurting myself for the rest of my life if I didn’t take this chance with you. I watched you silently slip away and my heart shattered. I told Nancy it wasn’t going to work, that her desires and mine would never come together. I reminded her I wasn’t William Matson.”

“How did she take it?”

“She wasn’t angry. If anything, she seemed relieved. She had told me that while she hoped we could resolve things, that in her heart she knew we weren’t right for each other. She believed we could still be friends and wished me well.”

I snuggled into Declan’s arms feeling safe and secure. “I’m glad it worked out that way.”

“Come on, Emma. Let go. I’m not very fond of hospitals. Uhm… you do have a car, don’t you? I left mine at home last night.”

I giggled. “So that’s the way it’s going to be, huh?”

***

I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into. Declan wouldn’t elaborate on who the people were he wanted me to meet, but as we pulled up to the charming Cape Cod styled house I knew I was in trouble.

Declan ran around and opened my door for me and I looked up into his eyes. He must know what I’m thinking as he pulled me into a hug. “You’ll do fine. They’ll love you.”

Declan didn’t knock, he just walked right in and kept his hand tightly around mine as he pulled me in behind him. He let go just as he stepped into the living room. I held back and out of sight.

“Declan! We were all worried about you.”

“I’m sorry, mom. I should have called.”

“Nancy called this morning and told us what happened. I’m sorry it didn’t work out between the two of you.”

Another lower voice spoke next. “Why is it you look like you just found a hundred dollars, son?”

“Mom, dad, I’d like you to meet someone.”

That was my cue. My heart pounded in preparation for the raw emotions that were about to happen. I took a step into the living room. Declan’s mother’s expression stopped me in my tracks. She stared at me and then at Declan before the tears began running freely down her face. I couldn’t contain my own tears.

Suddenly her arms were thrown around me and Declan’s father wrapped his arms around the two of us. I couldn’t imagine the feelings they both must have.

Declan’s mom brought her shaking hand to my face and she touched her forehead against mine. “I thought I would never see you again…”

After a long while, Declan finally spoke. “Mom, dad, meet Emma Taylor, formerly William Matson. This is the person that saved my life.”

A Kleenex box later, Declan’s mom pulled me to the couch and sat me down. “You have no idea what it’s like to lose a daughter and gain a son overnight. I cared and cherished this body you now have for twenty-three years. I breast-fed you, right here on this couch, changed your diapers, watched you grow into a precocious teenager, listened to your dreams of getting married and having children… I’m so very grateful and honored to meet you. Please, call me Angie.”

I didn’t think it was possible to cry so much. “The pleasure is all mine, Angie. It’s not every day one meets their biological parents for the first time.”

Angie stroked my cheek and moved some hair from my eyes. “You look wonderful.”

“The miracle of S.L.E.P. transference repaired this body’s brain. I’m healed.”

Declan’s dad smiled and hugged Declan. “Are you going to tell us what’s going on between you two?”

“Dad!”

I stood, moved to Declan’s side, slipped my hand into his and kissed him on the cheek. Angie’s eyes went wide. “How? What? I’m obviously missing something here.”

Declan took a deep breath. “We don’t know if it was due to the transfer, but we feel a tangible connection between us. I’ve dreamed every night of being with Emma and she has dreamed of me every night. When we found each other this morning, it just clicked.”

I felt the need to add more. “Clicked, as in meant to be. I’ve realized I was in love with Declan for months now even though we never actually met.”

Angie looked at Declan. “This is why you couldn’t commit to Nancy.” He nodded. “What happens now? Please tell me you’re here for a while, Emma.”

“My flight leaves tomorrow but I can change that.” I stared up into Declan’s eyes and touched his cheek with my fingertips. “Now that I’ve finally met my dream man, I don’t think my heart could take going home without him right now. The only problem is that I only took an overnight bag.”

Angie clapped her hands together in glee. “Not to worry! I never did get around to getting rid of Samantha’s things. You can stay here with us in Declan’s old room. I… we would very much like to get to know you better.”

“But she could stay with me at my place.”

“I’ve seen the way you too look at each other. I don’t think either of you would be safe. Besides, you only have one bedroom.”

“I don’t want to be a bother and I certainly don’t want to impose.”

Declan’s father came over and gave me a hug. “You’ll never be an imposition. You’re family after all.”

Declan took my hand and dragged me down the hall.

Angie smiled. “Leave the door open you two.”

Declan guided me into a bedroom and before I could take it all in I felt my back against the wall and his lips on mine.

“Mmmm. I could get used to this.”

Declan smiled. “That’s good, because I’m sure my heart will stop beating if I can’t kiss you at least once every minute.”

“That was rather intense meeting your parents. I can’t imagine what they’ve gone through.”

“They put on a brave face through it all but I know it was hard on them both. Hardest on my mom.”

“I can barely remember what my mom looked like. Sometimes when I catch the scent of roses I remember her. So, this was your room?”

“Yes.”

“I bet your S.L.E.P. concierge wasn’t happy you didn’t remove all references to me. It has so much personality. It tells me a lot about you.”

“Does it?”

“Those pictures on the wall with the initial S.R. on them. You’re an extremely creative and gifted artist. Your makeup by the mirror is subtle, understated. You’re somewhat shy.” Moving to the closet I looked inside. “Your dresses are elegant and yet conservative.” I smiled as I pulled out a pair of runners and another pair of hiking boots. “You were a runner and by the look of the wear on these hiking boots, loved the outdoors.”

“You’re amazing, Emma. I was in and out of the hospital a lot but once I got home I would run and hike when I could. Do you like to run?”

“I completed a half marathon on Thanksgiving Day last month and I’m planning on doing the full marathon next year.”

“Where have you been all my life?”

I smiled and pulled Declan close. “Which life?”

***

Almost a week had passed and I found myself waking up with more energy than I ever thought possible. I’ve never been so happy before. Each night when Declan would leave for his apartment, the process took nearly an hour. First it was his last kiss of the night, then it would be mine. The next thing would be us making out in the kitchen for a few minutes before Angie scooted us outside. That was followed by more last kisses, sitting in the car together, and finally more last kisses.

My heart was so connected to Declan’s that these nights apart are unbearable, yet each morning I wake with a sense of impending joy that very soon I would see him again. Declan was my soul mate and I had no doubt in my mind that we would be together forever.

Tonight was New Year’s Eve and the plan was for us to go into town for a celebration. Missy and Claire would be joining us but Angie and Richard, Declan’s father, decided they would stay home and get to bed before midnight. I only had to figure out what to wear to make a lasting impression and I smiled when I found a slinky black dress and heels hidden in the back of the closet. I’d not worn anything like this before but I was sure it would make Declan drool.

With that found, my next clothing concern was what to wear for the day and our pizza lunch with Declan’s parents. For that I discovered a very flattering red dress. Slipping that on, I checked myself out in the mirror and couldn’t stop grinning. I was practically bouncing up and down with excitement.

When I heard the door open I raced through the house, past the wide-eyed parents, and straight into Declan’s arms. He, in turn, swept my off the ground so my bare toes dangled over the living room furniture.

After my mandatory five kisses, I had Angie and Richard sit down on the couch. “I’ve been thinking that I need to get back home for a bit. It’s too cold out here to run and I want to get back into my fitness routine. How would you like a few weeks in sunny, warm, St. Petersburg, Florida? I have a guest house on my property and I would take care of all expenses.”

“I could use the sun, Richard.”

“Then it’s all settled. I can make the flights for the day after tomorrow.”

***

Declan stared at, in his opinion, the most beautiful person in the world. Emma was everything he had ever wanted in a partner. She was kind, generous, intelligent, witty, humble, and caring. His parents had fallen in love with her by the second day of her stay. Today, as they all ate pizza together, he admired her elegant grace and joyful banter. She wore a red dress that was once his, one, like many that he had purchased but never wore because he was too ill to wear it. He had never been so stunningly beautiful.

Declan wasn’t missing his old body as he, like Emma, was perfectly comfortable as he was. He loved the feeling of strength and power his fit body had. He also loved the way he could fold Emma into his arms protectively. He had never loved anything or anyone like he loved Emma.

Every day he and Emma would talk about their future together. There was no doubt in his mind that they would marry and have children. The question was when. Each night their goodbyes would extend longer and longer. Emma would press herself up against him in a way that drove him crazy with desire. He wasn’t sure how long they could remain pure, even though they both wanted to wait until they were married.

Declan smiled at the way Emma so casually talked with his parents all the while he could see her eyes on his and feel her hand on his thigh. He loved that she liked to touch and snuggle. She was perfect.

“Emma?”

It didn’t matter if she was in the middle of a sentence with someone else, Declan always came first. His heart warmed as she immediately turned to focus her entire attention on him. “Yes?”

“I have to pick up a few things before we go to Florida. Can you ride home with my parents?”

Declan could almost see the pain in her eyes. Being apart at night was already unbearable, but this was the first time in a week they hadn’t spent every minute of the day together. He saw her bite her lower lip. Even though she was older than him in real, everyday life, she was so frail and vulnerable. He knew she would never question his motives.

“Of course.” She smiled and winked at Declan. “It might take me an hour or two to get ready for tonight anyways.”

“Oh, really? You have something special planned?”

“Nah… I just have to cut the burlap sacks for my dress.”

Declan loved her humor. Declan loved everything about Emma and he knew for certain his decision to be apart for a while this afternoon would be a good one.

***

It hurt when Declan wanted to shop without me. I’d gladly stand in line for hours at a Walmart to buy socks if I was with him. I had no reason to doubt his intentions and I really did need a few hours to prepare myself, but it still was hard to swallow and I fought my inner fears of being abandoned.

The past few goodbyes at the end of the evening were so heated that I’ve begun to question my desire to wait for marriage. Last night we talked about our sexual experiences in the past. He knew that I’d been married before, but hadn’t realized that Diane was my one and only partner. I learned that I was a virgin and neither of had had any sexual experiences in the past year, so, I guess I still am.

Of course, we had both experimented with our new bodies and with Declan’s heated kisses and knowing exactly where to nibble my ear to drive me wild, I had taken more than one opportunity to find some release. I could safely say that my experience in this body was unlike anything I had ever had in the past and much better. Much, much better.

Hence, the body hugging black dress to drive Declan into as much of a fit of passion that he drives me every minute of the day. This is war, after all.

After my shower, I spent a great deal of time on my hair and makeup. In the year I’ve been a woman, I’d become pretty adept at these tasks, but tonight I wanted to make a splash and determined a new hairstyle was in order. I almost always had my hair flowing over my shoulders or in a ponytail for exercising, but tonight I put one side up and let the rest sweep over my right shoulder. This exposes the left side of my neck that Declan seems so enjoy so much. I’m pretty fond of his lips there myself.

The dress was magnificent and designed for one purpose only; to turn heads. With body-hugging stretchy fabric, plunging back and front, and mid-thigh hemline, I will need to be very careful how I sit. The dress had its own support as a bra just wouldn’t work with it.

Finding a necklace, earrings, both a wrist and ankle bracelet, a little black purse, and black high-heeled shoes, the ensemble made me feel incredibly sexy and powerful. My glance in the mirror was enough to remind my old male heart just how beautiful women could be.

Hearing Declan’s car pull up I had to fight the urge to run into his arms as usual. Instead, a subtler approach was needed tonight.

***

Declan had put on his best black suit coat and pants. He had a buttoned down white collared shirt he left open a little at the top. He wanted everything to be perfect for Emma and it saddened him that she hadn’t bounded into his arms as usual tonight. He hoped that his afternoon away didn’t hurt her feelings.

Angie gave Declan a hug. “Don’t you look handsome tonight.”

“A guy has to wear a suit once in a…”

Declan’s voice faltered as he spotted Emma coming out of the hallway. Stunning, breathtaking, hot, were all words that fell far short of what he saw. The twinkle in Emma’s eyes let him know he had provided the right reaction.

“Wow!” It was all he could muster as Emma sidled up next to him, draped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

Richard broke the silence. “Emma, you’re going to break hearts tonight with that outfit.”

“Angie hugged Emma. “Absolutely beautiful, Emma.”

Declan found it hard to breathe in Emma’s presence. “You look stunning, sweetheart.”

Emma beamed and snuggled up to him making Declan afraid he would explode at her touch.

“We should go. Angie and Richard, have a wonderful time tonight.”

“We will, Emma. Love you both.”

Declan took Emma’s arm in his and led her to the car.

***

“Round one goes to me.” I smiled as my hand rested gently on top of Declan’s.

“I didn’t know we were fighting.”

“Not fighting… Flirting.” My fingers made small circles on the back of his hand.

“All right, I’ll give you that round, but now you’ve released the hidden tiger and crouching dragon. You’ll be putty in my arms.”

“I always am.” I purred and leaned over to kiss Declan’s cheek. “Eyes on the road, sweetheart.”

When we arrived at the club Declan opened my door and helped me out of the car. “Have I told you how much I love you yet today?”

“A few times. But I’ll never stop wanting to hear it.”

“Declan! Emma!”

Our moment was shattered by Missy and Claire giving us enormous hugs. We had spent a little time together over the past week.

“Emma! You look smoking hot tonight!”

“Thanks, Missy. I had to make sure Declan’s eyes wouldn’t roam too far.”

Claire laughed. “You could wear a paper sack, have rollers in your hair, and a green facial mask on and his eyes would still be glued to you. Let’s go inside!”

We managed to find the last booth and Missy and Claire ordered drinks and quickly hit the dance floor.

“I’m so grateful you used to wear high-heels, Declan. I’d be falling all over the place otherwise.”

He smiled as his eyes peeled my clothing from my body. His hand snaked around my midsection and his other cupped my face. My lips parted as I felt his tongue. We’d never done that before and when he pulled away my breathing was shaky.

“You definitely win round two, Declan. My God, this is so difficult not jumping on you right now.”

“How many rounds do we have?”

“The question, my love, is not how many rounds, but rather when one yields fully to the other.”

“Emma, I’ve already yielded my heart completely to you.”

“Mmmm. Is that a slow song they’re playing?”

Pulling Declan up from the booth we passed Missy and Claire heading back to the table. “Go get him, Emma!”

Pressing my body firmly against Declan and with my arms were locked tightly around his neck, we rocked back and forth to the music. He was struggling keeping his composure and I felt his excitement through the thin fabric of my dress. My lips brushed his neck as I whispered into his ear.

“You’re everything I ever wanted. I’m yours completely. You own my life, my body, my heart, my soul, and my mind. Your touch sets me on fire. Your kiss… I love you, Declan.”

I didn’t think we could get any closer, but I felt his arm tighten around the small of my back. “Round three goes to you, my love. But I think I will win the night…”

Declan took a step back from me but kept my hands in his. He knelt on one knee and held up a beautiful ring. He almost had to shout over the music and people all around us stopped to watch, but my eyes were on his. “Emma Taylor, nothing on Earth could ever tear me from your side. From the moment I saw you, my heart was yours. Will you marry me and make me the happiest man in the world?”

“Yes, absolutely, without a doubt, without hesitation. Oh damn… Just put the ring on my finger so I can kiss you!” I felt the warmth of the metal ring slide onto my finger and I pulled Declan up to face me. My arms cupped his face and I kissed him like we’ve never kissed before. The music and cheers faded away. “I yield.”

Declan smiled, and scooped me up into his arms before taking me back to the booth. Claire and Missy were bouncing in their seats. “No way! That was amazing, you two!”

I was sitting on Declan’s lap with my arms still wrapped around his neck and reluctantly pulled my hand back to look at the ring. There were two diamonds wrapped in a band of white gold.

“The two diamonds represent our hearts. The band of gold that binds them together is in the shape of an infinity symbol symbolizing our hearts are bound together forever.”

“It’s never coming off. Never, ever. I didn’t think it was possible to be so happy. It’s almost criminal.”

“You made it all possible, Emma.”

“Ohhhh! You’re making us cry over here!”

“Is that why you left me at the pizza place today?”

Declan nodded. “I couldn’t wait another minute. I’m sorry.”

“I’ll forgive you this time.” I kissed him even as Claire and Missy pulled at my hand.

“Come on, Emma! You’re dancing with us!”

Declan laughed and stole me back a few minutes later.

***

The next morning, I woke and stretched making sure the first thing I did was check my ring finger. The ring was still there. It was all real. I made a quick call to Margo to give her the good news.

“I was wondering what had happened to you.”

“Long story, but way better than a Disney romance.”

“When it comes to you, Emma, I’m not surprised. When are you coming home?”

“Tomorrow. I’m bringing Declan and his parents.”

“I hope we’ll get a chance to meet everyone.”

“Can you all come over Monday night for dinner?”

“I think we can arrange that. What can I bring?”

“Nothing. I’m cooking.”

“God help us.”

I laughed. “I’m a good cook.”

“We’ll see about that. Congratulations, hun! See you soon.”

“Love you.”

With that call out of the way I dove into the closet to find a pretty white dress I had been eyeing. Declan will be here soon and we need to break the news to his parents. This white dress has a pocket I can hide my hand in until the right moment arises.

Declan arrived and I did my usual running through the house and into his arms forgetting all about hiding my hand as I ran past Angie and Richard. Our kisses were interrupted.

“Did we miss something last night, Declan?”

Declan managed a “Hmmm?” between kisses.

“Spill it, Declan Rawlings!”

I snuggled up against his side and tried to look contrite, but my smile was too big to pull it off well.

“Uhm… We’re getting married?”

Richard chuckled. “It’s about time.”

Declan was a little shocked by the response. “It’s only been a week. I thought you might think it too soon.”

Angie came over and hugged us both. “You’ve been pining away from Emma for over a year now and we can see how much you both love each other. Don’t ask me how, but I know you’ll be perfect for each other. Welcome to the family, again, Emma.”

“Maybe I can start calling you mom and dad?”

Angie wiped a tear from her cheek. “Nothing would make me prouder.”

Richard clapped Declan on the shoulder. “So, when’s the big day?”

“This is Saturday… How about a week from today?”

“You mean I have to wait a week?”

Angie patted me on the shoulder. “All good things come to those who wait, sweetie. A wedding of any size takes some arranging to put together.”

“We’re all going to be in Florida anyways. Maybe we can have it at my place on the beach. I have tons of room. We should invite Missy and Claire, and Maggie from S.L.E.P.”

“We should also invite Henry from S.L.E.P. as well. Anyone on your side, Emma?”

“Just Margo and her family, and Joe if we can track him down. I’m hoping we can keep it small and intimate.”

***

The rest of the day was a whirlwind of making calls and arrangements. We then had to all pack quickly as the next day we flew down to Florida. When I opened the door to my house, there were fresh flowers and a congratulations sign. Margo had let herself in and she hugged me tightly.

“You didn’t think I would wait until Monday to see you?”

“I’m glad you’re here, Margo. Thank you!”

“I knew things would be a little hectic for you so I shopped and made sure the guest house and beds had fresh linens.”

“You’re too sweet. Margo, please meet Declan, my fiancé.”

“It’s as if I know you. Emma hasn’t stopped talking about you for the past year.”

Declan hugged Margo. “Thanks for taking care of Emma. If it weren’t for you, I’m not sure any of this would be happening right now.”

“Margo, this is Angie and Richard. Declan’s parents.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”

After hugs all around, Margo headed back to her family as I showed Declan and his parents around.

Angie was amazed by the place. “It’s so beautiful here.”

“There’s a guest house above the garage that can house eight, and there are two additional bedrooms here along with the master bedroom. I wonder if it’s safe to have Declan sleep here?”

Angie chuckled. “If there are extra rooms in the guest house, I’m sure he can stay there. Who knows what will happen when the two of you finally…”

“Mom!” Declan and I said together.

“Declan, why don’t you settle in and change? You need to be poolside in fifteen minutes. We’re going to have a race.”

“A race?”

“To the pier and back. Whoever loses gets to do dishes tonight.”

“You’re on!”

***

“Ready…”

“How far is the pier?”

“Two miles. Set…”

“Two miles?”

“Look at yourself. You’re all big and muscular. I used to hike all day long above ten thousand feet. You’re not going to let a little girl beat you? Go…”

I took off.

“Hey!”

I knew he was faster, but I was trained up. At first, he rushed past me yelling a “See ya, sexy!” but I was hot on his heels by the time we got to the pier. I knew I had him beat by the time the house came into view but he tackled me.

“Oh… So that’s how it’s going to be?”

I was on my back with Declan lying on top of me. I was incredibly aroused as he kissed me. I rolled him over onto his back and straddled him. “I’m not going to last a week…” I kissed him and he smiled. “…unless I burn some excess energy.” Jumping up I ran for the house.

“Not fair!”

***

Declan and I snuggled on the chaise in the dying light of the sunset. “This was my favorite spot when I first came home from the hospital. I would lie here in the sun to keep warm.”

“I’ll keep you warm.”

“You sure do.”

Declan pulled me tighter. “What do we need to do for tomorrow’s dinner?”

“I was thinking of grilled steaks, potatoes, asparagus, and salad. Guess which one you get to take care of?”

“Salad?”

“Nope. Steaks. You’re a guy now. You must learn how to grill to perfection with a fork in one hand and a beer in another. I bet I can get dad to help you out.” I giggled. I loved being a woman.

“Nothing like male bonding over fire.”

“I need to shop for a dress and we need to pick out a ring for you.”

“You’re going to leave me.”

“Just for a few hours. One day you might want alone time.”

“Never.”

“At least you know it’s for a good cause. Maybe you can go to the Tradewinds to see if they have a nice room for our wedding night. Perhaps you can find Joe there too.”

“Good plan. You think we need a single bed?”

“I’d just take some privacy. I’m not planning on sleeping.”

“You’re insatiable.”

“I hope so. I can’t wait to feel your naked body next to mine.”

Declan squirmed. “That’s unfair.”

I giggled again.

***

The day of the wedding arrived and none too soon. Several times I had planned on breaking into the guest house to tackle Declan. Missy, Claire, Maggie, and Henry had arrived late last night. Maggie, Margo, Claire, and Missy attended me while Declan was helped by Joe, Henry, and his father.

This event must be interesting from Richard and Angie’s perspective. They were marrying off both their son and daughter. I hadn’t seen Declan all morning and that was about as traditional as this wedding was going to be. Missy was pulling on my arm to help me get ready.

“One second, Missy.”

I walked over to Richard and Angie. “I can’t imagine what you both must be going through right now. Dad, would it be all right with you if you walked me down the aisle?”

That brought tears to both their eyes. “I always wanted to do that. It would be my honor.”

After hugging them both I scampered off to my bedroom. Angie snuck in after me. “May I join you?”

“Of course! I’m going to need all the help I can get.”

Margo and Angie worked on my hair while Missy and Maggie did my nails. Claire did my makeup.

“So much for not being in contact with the patient.” Maggie was joking.

I smiled but tried not to move my face much as Claire was working on my eyes. “Might be a new business for S.L.E.P.”

“How’s that?”

“You could put eHarmony out of business. Just do your magic on healthy people.”

Maggie laughed. “I’m so happy for you, Emma.”

When everything was done and I looked like a princess, everyone took their places. Angie held back.

“How can I ever thank you, Emma?”

“There’s nothing to thank.”

“But there is. You saved our daughter. You gave us the funds we needed to get back on our feet and can retire. You’ve made Declan’s dreams come true. You’re every inch my beloved daughter and cherished friend. I’m so grateful to you.”

“You’re going to make me cry and ruin my makeup. All things work out for good. I see that now. You’re the mother I never really had. Thank you.”

We hugged and she slipped out of the room. There was a knock on the door and Richard, dad, opened it for me. “You’re beautiful, Emma.”

“You look pretty dapper yourself, dad.”

“I love it when you call me that. Are you ready?”

“More than you’ll ever know.”

The music began and I walked arm in arm down between the chairs that had been lined up on the beach. A rose arbor rested on a slightly raised platform where Declan, looking handsome in his tuxedo, stood. His eyes never left mine except for the moment he took in my body beneath the skintight layers of silk and lace. It was a conservative, yet sexy dress.

A light breeze came from the oceanside and brought to me the scent of roses. The picture of my mother came to mind and I felt the warmth of my parent’s presence. Leaving dad next to Angie I stepped up onto the platform as the priest spoke words of blessing over our marriage. It was the longest ten minutes I ever had as I waited for the moment when I could kiss my wonderful husband.

“…kiss the bride.”

Phew! Declan leaned in and kissed me amid the cheers of everyone around us.

After all the congratulations and signing of documents I was now Emma Rawlings. From here we all rushed over to the Tradewinds for our reception.

Declan stood and raised his glass. “To my wonderful parents who stayed by my side year after year through my sickness. No one ever has had more loving and kind parents than I have. To my bride, it’s so nice to be able to say that, I will never leave you and promise to love you every minute of every day. Cheers!”

People clanked their glasses together but I needed no incentive to stand and kiss Declan. I held up my glass, suddenly overwhelmed with joy and gladness. I choked out the words. “I bet I’m the first one to ever thank her in-laws and biological parents at the same time. Thank you for accepting me into your family, your home, and your lives. To my husband, the man that I know I’m willing to die for because I tried it once already…” Everyone laughed at that. “I pledge my life and love. I will never stray even if you burn the steaks.”

“That was dad!”

I giggled. “Cheers!”

We kissed again and again and again.

***

The time had finally come for Declan and me to head to our room for the night. I heard that some couples sleep first, but I was anything but tired. As Declan carried me over the threshold and gently placed me on my feet, I was more than ready to become a woman.

“I’ve never wanted anything as much as I want you, Emma.”

My arms cupped his face as I kissed him. “Words aren’t enough to describe the love I have for you, Declan.”

Gently he turned my body so I faced away from him. His lips were at that spot on my neck that drove me wild. His fingers lightly traced the bare skin of my shoulders. I shivered in anticipation. Cool air caressed my back as he pulled down the zipper of my dress. “Mmmm. Don’t stop, Declan!”

***

It was very late the next day that we pulled into the driveway of our home. We entered a festive atmosphere.

“You’re positively glowing, Emma.”

I was only mildly embarrassed. Everyone knows what happens on a wedding night, but I was positive no one would ever really know how amazing ours was. My fingers were entwined with Declan’s as I snuggled back against his body.

“It’s good to be alive.”

“So, where are you going for a honeymoon?”

Declan and I laughed as we said it together. “Nepal.”

***

***

For those that needed this little vignette, thank you for reminding me that it would be great to share what happened to Emma and Declan. All six thousand seven hundred words poured out effortlessly today.

If you enjoyed this story, take a moment to leave a comment. I love to hear from my readers.

Casey Brooke