The wedding wasn’t until 5pm that evening, but Brittany was up and rearing to go at 6am.  There were a few hard knocks at Paul and my door.  Hearing them, I rolled over trying to ignore it—I was tired.  The knocks came again.

            “Go away,” I heard Paul mumble, his voice muffled in the pillow.

            “Olivia!  Wake up!” Brittany shouted through the door.  I moved once more inching my way up, but it was too long for Brittany.  The door flew open and she began shaking me.

            “Okay okay!” I shouted, “I’m up. What time is it?”

            “It’s bloody 6 in the morning!” Paul said sternly—I’m sure I’ve mentioned this but he wasn’t always the friendliest when woken up, “Brittany what are you doing—are you mad?” Paul asked turning around, the covers falling slightly from his body.

            “Don’t flash me again Paul,” Brittany warned with a smile.  Paul sneered at her.

            “For starters, I didn’t appreciate that much me self before, so I shant be doing it again.  I’m not naked now anyway,” Paul yawned stepping out of bed wearing is pajama pants.  He made his way lazily to the bathroom.

            “What is it Brittany?  Everything okay?” I asked her.  She sat beside me on the bed.

            “Olivia I’m scared,” she said under her breath.

            “What?”

            “I’m scared, nervous, a total wreck!” She shouted, “What if I’m not wife material?  I mean, I’ve never seemed like the domestic house wife type of person, and what if Micky decides he doesn’t love me anymore and--”  I held my hand up to stop her.

            “Brittany things are going to be fine,” I assured her.  I was actually thinking it was about time she freaked out—I was surprised she hadn’t done it earlier.  Paul emerged from the bathroom, glanced at Mary, and walked over to our suitcase

            “What’s all the shouting about?”

            “I don’t know if I can do this Paul,” Brittany said more softly than a few minutes ago.  Paul looked puzzled as he took a shirt out of the suitcase and slipped it on.

            “Do what?  Get married?” he asked and she nodded slowly.  She looked back at me.

            “Olivia, I’m so scared.  I’m going to be getting married….today!”

            “Brittany you have no reason to be scared.  Micky loves you and you love Micky.  I’ve seen the way you guys are together, and things are going to work out—I just know it.  You’re just getting cold feet,” She looked at me unsure whether she believed me.  I glanced over at Paul and we locked in our gaze.  I hesitated and looked back to Brittany, “I actually felt the same way as you when Paul and I were about to be married,”

            “You what?” Paul asked walking over and taking a seat next to me, “You were scared?”

            “You were?” Brittany asked completely shocked. I nodded.

            “Yes I was--frightfully so actually.  It wasn’t that I didn’t want to get married, because I did, more than anything, but I was so scared that things weren’t going to work out.  I always pictured myself as the married type—but honestly I could never picture Paul,” Again I glanced at Paul and he seemed a bit hurt.  I rested my hand on his knee, “He always talked about it and I believed he wanted to get married and that he loved me—and I had no doubt that he would be an excellent husband, but I just couldn’t picture it,” I turned to Paul who continued to just look at me and I couldn’t quite read his expression and I hated that, “I’ve always known you to be so carefree and independent, I was scared that you’d remain that way when we were married and it wouldn’t even seem like we were,”

            “I didn’t know you thought all this,” Paul said softly frowning.  Brittany glanced between the both of us, “I used to be carefree and independent, but ever since I met you, I’ve found that it’s quite tough being by me self—I’ve grown so used to having you around, needing you with me all the time—that now, I’m quite dependent on you,” I looked at him sympathetically wishing he never knew this fact, because I didn’t even think it anymore—however I could tell by Brittany’s face it helped her somewhat with her fear, and that’s all I wanted right now.

            “That’s how I feel though, but about myself.  In a weird way, I guess you could say Paul and my personalities are a lot alike, and I’m just scared I’m not going to be able to live a married life and Micky isn’t going to be satisfied,”

            “That’s my point.  I was completely wrong—Paul is—sweetheart you are, the best husband, and if somebody were to ask me what I wish you had more of—I wouldn’t be able to think of anything—you’re perfect.  I was surprised at how wrong I was about him, uh, you, and now I kick myself for ever thinking such thoughts—I love you and I wouldn’t want my life any other way,” I said.  A smile crept up onto Paul’s face, and he seemed a bit more satisfied.

            “Yeah?” Brittany asked calming down.  I nodded, “I just really want a good marriage—you know, like you and Paul.  It’s so amazing, even now; to see you two married with a family, after everything that you both went through,”

            “It’s a miracle really—best thing that ever happened to me.  Can’t say I wish anything didn’t happen—because it was all worth it in the end,” Paul smiled kissing my head and putting his hand around my waist, “I love you,” I smiled and kissed him quickly.

            “See, this is what I want it to be like,” Brittany said looking longingly at us.  Paul and I laughed,

            “You will.  You and Micky are going to be fine—married life isn’t much different than a serious relationship—especially if you’ve been together for as long as you and Micky have—then the real change only seems to be the fact you are living together, as well as a few minor adjustments,”  Brittany nodded in thought.

            “She’s right, for Olivia and I, I can honestly say it didn’t feel different being married at all really,” He looked at me and nudged me close to him, “We were already living together, so the biggest change for us was her name being the same as mine.  We’ve been married for what? Over a year now, and it’s only just begun to feel different—and that’s only because we’ve had a baby,”

            “Really?  It’s not completely different?” Brittany asked needing to be assured a little more.  Paul nodded.  He was always good at speaking, and he liked it, so I let him talk.

            “Really.  When I was younger I could never picture myself being married, mostly because it scared me and I saw no need for it—I thought it would be too different—too much change.  But it’s not, and if there are changes, they are good.  I love being married,”

            “Thanks a lot guys, you’ve actually made me feel better,” Brittany said hugging us both.  Paul and I laughed.

            “No problem, just remember how much you love him and he loves you.  It only gets better from here,” I said and she nodded.

            “I do love him,” she smiled, “Are you going to go back to bed?”

            “Well, that was quite the switch of subjects,” Paul laughed as did Brittany and I.

            “Sorry, but are you?  I was thinking that you could help me with my hair and make-up, and oh!  I have to show you your dress!”  Brittany stood up.  She decided to keep the Bridesmaids dresses a surprise.  I knew ahead of time that I was the maid of honor, but I had no idea what I’d be wearing.  Paul looked surprised.

            “You don’t even know what your dress looks like?” he asked me and I shook my head.

            “Wait here,” Brittany said and left the room.  She arrived a few minutes later with a dress bag.  She handed it to me, “Go put it on,”

            “Right now?” I asked looking down at myself, “I’m not even showered nor have make-up on,” Paul rolled his eyes and gave me a nudge.

            “Come ‘ead love, you know you’re beautiful without—I’ve been trying to tell you that for years,” he smiled and I rolled my eyes this time.  I took the bag from Brittany and walked into the bathroom shutting the door behind me.  I could hear conversation between Brittany and Paul as I pulled the bag up revealing the dress. I gasped.

            “You like it?” I heard Brittany call out—she must’ve heard me.

            “Brittany this is gorgeous,” I said staring at the Royal Purple dress in front of me.  I ran my fingers down the silky material.

            “Hurry up love; we’re dying to see it out here!” Paul shouted, “Even Mary’s awake and ready to see,” I smiled and stripped down taking the dress off the hook.  It was a straight cut dress with a bit of train at the back, light purple lace creating a V.  The back was low cut revealing enough skin to create appeal and sophistication, but not overdoing it.  The front was a straight line in the middle of the chest, and a small velvet strip of purple hugged the ribs just underneath the breasts. I slipped it on and it fit perfectly, however I needed help with the zipper.

            “Paul?” I called out.

            “Yes love?”

            “Can you come in here and help me?”

            “Sure,”

            “Doesn’t it fit?” Brittany panicked.

            “No it does, I just can’t get the zipper all the way up,” I answered.  The door handle turned and Paul walked in shutting the door behind him.  He froze in his tracks and stood staring at me in the mirror.

            “Holy shit,” he said looking me up and down.  I smiled.

            “What?  Purple not my color?” I asked teasing him.  He moved behind me and zipped up the back, then placed his arms around my stomach and rested his chin on my nearly bare shoulder.

            “No, you look smashing love,” he complimented me.

            “It is a gorgeous dress,” I said looking my self over, “My hair will probably be up,” I moved my right hand from Paul’s arm and he moved his head back as I held my hair up with one hand.  I turned my head slightly to see how it looked.  Paul began kissing the back of my neck circling around the side and down to my shoulders.

            “You are so damn gorgeous,” he said, then smiled slyly, “You’re making me hot right now,” he said nibbling my earlobe.  I laughed.

            “Maybe later,” I winked at him and he smiled big biting my shoulder lightly, “Are you ready Brittany?” I asked.

            “Am I ready?  What the hell are you guys doing in there?!” Paul and I laughed and I walked out of the bathroom.  Her eyes grew huge.

            “Wow,” she said, “That looks incredible,”

            “You picked out a great dress,” I said.

            “That’s for sure,” Paul commented walking past me.  I glanced at him and saw his face held a smirk.  He leaned down and picked up Mary from her crib.

            “That looks so good,” Brittany said again, “I have competition in my wedding dress!” she laughed.

            “Oh come on, you are going to look incredible.  I can’t wait to see you, and Micky is going to be stunned,” I smiled and she smiled shyly.

            “I can show you my dress right now,” she offered.

            “Yeah!”

            “Alright, come on,” she motioned.  Paul frowned.

            “I want to see,” he said, “its not bad luck if a guest sees the bride before the wedding is it?”

            “No that’s true, I’ll come back then,” Brittany offered disappearing into the hallway. We heard rustling in the hall, and Sara poked her head in our room.

            “Morning Sara,” Paul greeted and she smiled.

            “Morning guys, I heard commotion up here and,” she suddenly froze, “Oh!  Are those our dresses!?” she asked walking over to me.

            “Yes, aren’t they gorgeous?” Sara nodded her head.

            “Oh I want to put mine on!”

            “Brittany’s gonna show us her wedding dress, so ask her when she gets back,”

            “Oh she’s coming back in here?” I nodded and Sara took a seat next to me.  She leaned over and wiggled her index finger in front of Mary, “Hey Mary, what do you think of all this commotion?”  Paul laughed.

            “She has no idea what’s going on, just a lot of noise,” he said and Sara laughed. 

            “Are you guys ready?” Brittany called from the hallway.

            “Yeah, Sara’s here too,” I said.

            “Oh good, too bad Em’s not here,” she said sadly, “But here I come,” she walked in and our mouths fell.

            “Oh Brittany, you look gorgeous!” I said standing up and walking over to her as she looked at herself in the mirror.  Sara followed.

            “You think?”

            “Oh yeah, this is an incredible dress,” Sara said.  Brittany looked back at Paul through the mirror.

            “Paul?  I need a guy’s opinion,” she asked.  Paul shifted awkwardly on the bed.

            “It looks fantastic, you’re very beautiful,” he complimented.  She blushed and looked back at herself.

            “There is no competition here,” I said smiling, “You win, hands down,” Brittany turned and hugged both Sara and I.

            “Oh, I’m so happy you guys are here,” she smiled with tears in her eyes—something that didn’t often happen to Brittany. 

            “Sara come on, let’s put yours on,” Brittany said.  I decided to stay to be with Paul and to feed a hungry Mary.  After that being done I changed out of my dress and Paul and I headed downstairs.  Emily and Peter arrived at around 9 and we visited for a while before Brittany said we had to get ready.  She was so excited but she wasn’t able to see Micky till that evening and it was killing her.  I remembered not being able to see Paul for that whole day and feeling the same way.  We couldn’t decide on how to do our hair, so we went to plan B—our appointments for a professional.  We left the guys at home as the four of us headed to the salon to get all gussied up for the wedding.  Our appointments were at 11am and they took about four hours, making it three.  It was just enough time to get home and slip our dresses on and make any last minutes changes before heading to the chapel.  I headed upstairs and into the bedroom, where Paul was just walking out of the bathroom.  He was damp from showering and had his towel strategically placed around his waist.  I smiled and shut the door behind me.

            “You’re not going like that to the wedding are you?” I asked smiling and walking over to him.  I wrapped my arms around his waist and he smiled.

            “And what if I were?” he asked challenging me. 

            “I’d say one or both of two things would happen,” I started and he looked at me, eyebrows raised, “One I wouldn’t be able to concentrate at all,” I moved my hand slowly down his chest and he breathed in deep, “And or two, we wouldn’t be able to stay at the wedding the whole time because I’d have to have you right there,” I finished kissing his neck.  He smiled.

            “You better be careful, you’re making me want to risk the wrath of Brittany and go for it,” I laughed and we kissed.  He moved over to the bed and lifted two ties, “Tie or no tie?  And if yes, which tie?” he asked me.  I stood and looked at the two.

            “What color suit are you going with?” I asked him.

            “My dark gray one with a white shirt,” he paused, “Or would my light gray suit with a black shirt look better?  Then would I still wear a tie?  Hm, I’m in a dilemma,” I laughed and walked over to him and he stood puzzled.  I kissed him gently.

            “Are you sure there’s not a bit of girl in you?” I asked he narrowed his eyes at me, but I could see the grin sparkling behind the slits.

            “What are you saying?  Just because I like to look good I’m feminine?” He asked, “Because I’m pretty sure you’ve made it very clear that I’m quite the man—normally, and in bed,” he wiggled his eyebrows at me.

            “Fine you got me,” I laughed and he grinned satisfied, “And I think you should go with light suit, black dress shirt, no tie,” I said walking off to the bathroom to get my dress.

            “That seemed too easy for you,” he laughed.

            “Where’s Mary?” I asked him noticing she wasn’t there.  Paul looked around frantically,

            “Shit!  I must’ve forgotten her at the grocery store this afternoon!”  I felt my heart drop then realized he was kidding.  I tapped my foot and just stared at him, a smile plastered to his face and one creeping on mine.

            “Very funny,” I said getting my dress out of the bag once again.  He laughed.

            “Well, what kind of father do you think I am?  She’s downstairs with your mum,” I shook my head and laughed to myself.  We finished getting dressed and headed downstairs.  Brittany didn’t want to put the dress on till we got to the church so she was waiting downstairs with a few of the others who were ready—just a big bundle of nerves.  I smiled and walked over to her.

            “It’s going to be fine,” I said and she smiled.

            “I know, I’m just so excited,” Sara and Mike emerged from their room and we were all ready to go.  Brittany’s parents and Micky’s dad were meeting us at the church, because the house was already maybe a bit too full.  We made it with an hour to spare and Brittany headed off into the room to get ready.  We stayed with her only a few minutes then left to go over the order to walk down the aisle.  Time went by fast and soon we were standing in line, my arm awkwardly enough latched onto Davy’s.  I hadn’t known till now, he was the groom I was to be paired up with, but we were the only ones without matches so I guess it had to be.  The music began and Davy and I stood waiting for our turn—we were last before Brittany’s entrance.

            “This is awkward,” I whispered and Davy looked over at me, a look I couldn’t read on his face.

            “Why?” he asked and I looked over at him as if he was crazy.  How could he not know?

            “Because,” I paused then just spit it out,” Because we were engaged for so long and everything, yet we still get the experience walking down the aisle—except not in that way.  I don’t know it just seems awkward to me,” I said and he nodded.

            “I can see that, and I just wanted to tell you that I’m sorry,” he said and I turned back to him paying close attention to Sara and Mike in front of us—I didn’t want to miss our timing.

            “For what?” I asked.

            “The other night—Paul talked to me and--” I moved my head back slightly due to shock.

            “Paul talked to you?” I asked though I don’t know what the surprise was.  I told him he could, but I guess I just didn’t know he actually would or when for that matter.  Davy nodded and we began to walk slowly to the doors.

            “Yeah, yesterday at the bachelor party we had a talk.  He wasn’t too happy with me and he talked some sense in me, I’d hate to admit it, but he was right and I’m so sorry.  It was a long night, and I shouldn’t have said any of that to you,” I was speechless.  What had Paul said to him?  And why didn’t he tell me he talked to him?  “I’m so glad that you are happy, and I think you and Paul are perfect for each other,” he said and I turned to him quickly before we were to be seen by hundreds of people.  He smiled and squeezed my hand with his opposite arm, “And I’m not just saying that,” I smiled.

            “Thank you so much Davy, you have no idea what that means to me,” I said smiling.  He leaned over and kissed me on the cheek.  We looked forward as we made our way down the aisle, all eyes on us.  It felt weird doing this again and not being the bride—I had never really been in a wedding before other than a flower girl when I was small.  I found Paul sitting towards the front.  His face frowned as soon as he saw me paired with Davy, but he recuperated with a smile.  He even made a waving motion with Mary’s arm. I smiled and looked once more to the front.  Davy and I split off to our separate sides and I smiled big at Micky when he looked at me.  He smiled in return and I almost teared up with the joy I saw in his face.  Brittany looked gorgeous and so happy when she walked down the aisle.  The ceremony thereafter was beautiful and I almost cried multiple times.  Afterwards the reception party was held downstairs and everybody was having a blast.

            “That was a beautiful service,” I said to Paul after meeting up with him in the basement.  He smiled and kissed my head.

            “You looked fantastic,” he smiled, “It made me want to marry you all over again,”

            “I want to do that everyday,” I kissed him again and took Mary from him to give him a break.  I talked to her for a bit as Paul wrapped his arm around me.

            “Time to mingle,” he said smiling as we walked to the middle of the room.  We said hi and visited with a number of people, some of which we’ve never met before, but that was the way Paul was.  He was all about being friendly and getting to know everyone—and I mean everyone.  He had this thing where he wanted everybody to feel like they belonged—even if he didn’t like them, which I guess is not a bad thing.  Finally we made it over to Brittany and Micky, I hugged them both delicately, Mary still in my arms, and congratulated them.

            “That was a beautiful wedding,” Paul smiled shaking Micky’s hand. 

            “Thanks, it feels so wonderful to be married now,” Micky smiled and kissed Brittany.  She giggled and kissed him in return.  They had their first dance and it was time for everybody to dance.  They played a variety of slow and fast songs, mostly alternating between the two.           “You looked beautiful out there sweetheart,” My mom said joining us and kissing my cheek.  I smiled.

            “Thanks mom,” I replied.

            “Paul and I just couldn’t believe how pretty you looked--walking down the aisle as if you were getting married all over again, and of course Brittany looked stunning,” Paul smiled and squeezed my elbow lightly.  I looked up at him.

            “Carol, do you mind taking Mary for a bit?  I’d like to dance with Olivia,” Paul said and I smiled.

            “Of course I’ll take her!  She’s my very first grandbaby,” My mom said happily.

            “Thanks. Olivia darling, shall we?” Paul asked holding out his hand.

            “I’d be delighted,” I smiled and we moved out into the dance floor.  We danced only a few seconds to ‘Just My Style’ by Gerry Lewis and The Playboys when ‘Here There and Everywhere’ by none other than, The Beatles, began playing.  I smiled.

            “Well, isn’t this just perfect, it’s as if they knew I wrote this for you and we were here,” Paul said--his mouth next to my ear as he pulled me close to him and swayed along with the music.  I closed my eyes and he sang softly along with the words. 

            “This seems like such a long time ago,” I said softly.

            “Yeah it does, kinda miss it,” he said and I moved my head back to look at him confused by what he meant, “You know, with The Beatles and all,” I nodded, “We were still fine and happy then, now it’s all just gone to shit, but I don’t want to talk about that,”

            “Honey I’m sorry,” I said sincerely looking up at him.  He smiled genuinely and kissed me just as the song ended.  The next song, a nice oldie, ‘Rock around the Clock’ began playing and Paul began doing the Twist he always does.  I laughed and he took my hands.

            “Come on love!” he shouted laughing spinning during the solo and playing air guitar.  I laughed and began dancing with him, having so much fun.  I laughed even more as the sax solo played and he wiggled his bum along with the rhythm. The song ended Paul and I laughing and the other people hooting for their own reasons.

            “That was fun,” I said smiling.  Paul laughed.

            “And you said I don’t dance,” he said shaking his head breathing deep.  The music continued and Paul and I continued to dance joyfully.  We danced for a couple more songs when someone interrupted us holding a bass out in front of them.  Paul and I looked at each other.

            “Olivia, this is for you,” the man said handing me the bass.  I looked up at Paul who was totally clueless.  I held it and just stared.

            “Um, I don’t get it,” I said and Paul laughed.  He put the bass strap over my shoulders.

            “See, love, that’s how you are supposed to wear one of these—it’s a Bass Guitar,” he smiled and I rolled my eyes.

            “I know that, but why did you give this to me?” I asked the man who was still standing there.  He pointed behind me.

            “The bride’s request,” he answered then walked away.  I turned to see the other three girls on the stage, nobody yet noticing.   They motioned for me to come over.

            “I think you are going to play for everyone,” Paul whispered to me.  I looked at him eyes big.

            “What?  I can’t, I--”

            “What do you mean you can’t?” he asked laughing, “Of course you can.  Now go,” he said tapping my bum.  Confused I made my way over to the others as the current song ended and another one did not begin.

            “What are you guys doing?” I asked.

            “Plug in Olivia,” Emily whispered to me.  Confused I did so and people begin looking in our direction wondering what was going on.  I looked around at all the people as I stood there in my dress like the others, bass in hand.  I was nervous.  I hadn’t played in front of an audience, or let alone just played in over 2 years—I was probably rustier then ever.  Brittany walked up to the microphone.

            “Hello everyone,” she said and everything responded, “As you can see I’m the bride and I want to thank everybody for coming and everyone who helped out with the wedding,” she said and people clapped and whistled.  I smiled catching a glimpse of Paul.  He raised his eyebrows and gave me his famous thumbs up.  Brittany continued, “My just husband, Micky, has been so much to me.  He’s been there for me whenever I needed him and I love him to death.  He’s inspired me in so many ways and for so many things, that I just can’t thank him enough,” she said smiling and Micky mouthed ‘I love you’ in return, “When Micky and I first met, I was just getting in a band with Olivia McCartney here,” she turned and pointed to me.  Everyone clapped and I smiled, “Then we brought in Sara Nesmith and Emily Miller, and formed the Bleeding Hearts…anybody familiar with them?” she asked smiling as everyone cheered and whistled yet again, “Well, we’ve all been together for so long and I’d like to sing the very first song I ever wrote for Micky and maybe, just maybe we’ll humor you with some more,” she smiled.  She turned back to us, “Ready girls?” she asked and I was frozen.  What if I didn’t remember the riff?  How was she so confident I’d remember any of the lyrics? I wasn’t even 100% sure of what song we were playing! “To my dear husband, this is ‘Hey Micky’” Brittany finished and counted off.  As the beginning lyrics flew smoothly out of my mouth, the bass riff soon came to me and I knew exactly what I was doing.  Paul flashed me a smile as he saw I was no longer nervous.

Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky
Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky
Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky...

Hey Micky
You've been around all night and that's a little long
You think you've got the right but I think you've got it wrong
Why can't we say goodnight? So you can take me home, Micky

Cause when you say you will, it always means you won't
You're givin' me the chills, baby, please baby don't
Every night you still leave me all alone, Micky

Oh Micky, what a pity, you don't understand
You take me by the heart when you take me by the hand
Oh Micky, you're so pretty, can't you understand
It's guys like you, Micky
Ooh what you do Micky, do Micky
Don't break my heart, Micky

Hey Micky
Now when you take me by the... who's... ever gonna know
Every time you move I let a little more show
There's something you can use, so don't say no, Micky

So come on and give it to me anyway you can
Anyway you want to do it, I'll take it like a man
Oh please baby, please don't leave me in this jam Micky


Oh Micky, what a pity, you don't understand
You take me by the heart when you take me by the hand
Oh Micky, you're so pretty, can't you understand
It's guys like you, Micky
Ooh what you do Micky, do Micky
Don't break my heart, Micky

Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky
Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky, hey Micky
Oh Micky, you're so fine
You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Micky...

We quickly got back into the swing of things, and the guests wanted to hear more.  We each sang a few of our more popular songs and finished off the night.  It was so exhilarating being up there again and a part of me missed it.   I made my way back to Paul and hugged him.

            “That was amazing!” I said out of breath, “I haven’t done that in so long!”

            “You guys did fantastic, love, really,” Paul said giving me a quick kiss, “I haven’t seen you girls perform in ages.  Great job,” he complimented me.  I thanked him again and we made our way back to my mom who had Mary.  It was a bit crowded so Paul and I waited till the room got empty before attempting to get to our car.  Throughout the night a few people asked for autographs for their son, daughter, niece, nephew etc, but it wasn’t as bad as I feared it could be. 

            “This was a great night,” I said to my mom and Paul.  They agreed.

            “You aren’t too tired are you?” Paul asked me.  I looked over at him.

            “Too tired for what?” I asked eyeing him carefully not sure what he was talking about.  He saw the look and laughed.

            “Not that,” he smiled, “Though maybe later,” he winked.

            “No really, what are you talking about?” I asked smiling and taking his hand.

            “Your mum offered to take Mary tonight,” he said.

            “Huh?”

            “She asked when the last time it was just you and me and I told her not since Mary was born, so she told us to go have a night of our own.” He said.  I looked over at my mom talking with some people showing Mary off.

            “Really?” I asked.  Paul nodded.

            “Yeah, she can just take Mary home with her and we can leave from here,” he said.

            “And she knows all this?” I asked and he nodded again.

            “Yeah, I said I had to talk it over with you first though, make sure you weren’t too tired or didn’t want to,”

            “Oh course I want to.  What are we doing then?”

            “Oh I have something planned out,” he said with that smile of his.

            “Is that so?”

            “It is, my love, it is,” he said winking, “I’ll be right back,” he left and walked over to my mother and I imagine he told her that I was up for an evening alone with Paul.  He returned, “We’re good to go, though we might want to find Brittany and Micky first,”

            “Why’s that?”

            “Well, it’s part of the surprise, but we aren’t going to be coming back tonight….and they leave on their honeymoon tomorrow as we leave for home,”

            “We’re not coming back?” I asked.

            “Well, we will eventually to get Mary and our things as well as say goodbye, but they’re leaving early in the morning aren’t they?”

            “You’re right, there they are too,” I said just spotting them.  We walked over and I hugged them again.

            “Wasn’t that great?” Brittany asked, “It felt so good to perform again,”

            “I agree,” I said, “Good idea,”

            “Thanks,”

            “You guys heading home?” I asked them.

            “Yeah, we have to pack for Hawaii!” Brittany said clapping.  I smiled and turned to Paul.

            “Jeez, I haven’t even gone to Hawaii!  And I’m with a Beatle!” I kidded him and he raised his eyebrows, mouth open, not expecting that. He smiled and Brittany, along with Micky laughed.

            “What can I say, my husband treats me right,” she kidded.  Paul laughed.

            “Whoa now, I treat my baby pretty damn well,”

            “Yes you do,” I said and kissed him.

            “Where are you guys headed?” Micky asked.

            “We’re going to have an evening alone, Carol is going to look after Mary,” Paul said, “We just wanted to come over and say a last congratulations and a ‘have a wonderful honeymoon’,” Paul said then paused awkwardly, ‘So congratulations and have a wonderful honeymoon,” we all laughed.

            “Thanks guys, and thank you both so much for coming,” Brittany said once more hugging me.  She glanced at Paul, “Ah, what the heck you can have a hug too,” she said embracing him. He smiled and hugged in return.

            “You guys will have to come visit us next time,” I said and Brittany nodded.

            “For sure!  You guys have a good night,” she said in a sing song voice and winking.

            “Same goes for you,” Paul replied in the same sing song tone winking as well.  We laughed.

            “Have fun you guys,” I said.

            “Thanks, see you later!” They waved and were off.  Paul and I smiled as we watched them go. 

            “Why are we getting take out from a fancy restaurant?” I asked Paul as he brought the food back to our car, well, our rental car.

            “Because we aren’t going to eat here,” he responded.

            “Where are we going?”

            “Love,” he laughed, “Shh, you’ll find out.  I’ve got this all planned out remember?”

            “Yes, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to know,”

            “Well, you’ll just have to wait—here hold these,” he handed me the boxes.

            “Hm, these smell so good,” I said savoring the aroma filling the car, “They aren’t going to be cold by the time we get to wherever we’re going will they?”

            “Nope, dearest I have this all figured out,” Paul smiled touching my knee.  I leaned over and kissed him.

            “You’re amazing,” I said and he laughed.

            “Only because you’ve made me amazing,” I smiled and flipped on the radio.  I laughed, “This night is just for us aye?” Paul laughed as the radio played ‘Someday We’ll Be Together’.

            “Apparently,” I smiled looking out the window as we drove with the only sound being the radio and our breathing.  I had no idea where he was taking me but I was excited and the sky looked gorgeous as the sun was not quite setting, but getting lower in the sky.  I missed the long days in the summer where it doesn’t get dark until around 9 or 10 at night.  Back in London, the days are all the same and it’s more or less raining or snowing.  We were driving for quite a while when Paul finally spoke.

            “Do recognize anything yet?” he asked me.  I looked around and studied my surroundings.

            “No, I don’t,” I whined like a two year old.  He laughed.

            “Well, you should soon,” he said and I turned to him.

            “I’ve been here before?”

            “Yep.” Was all he said and we continued to drive.  He pulled around a little bend and slowed the car down.  I looked out past the rows of trees and saw a little park in the distance.  I opened my mouth as the little white Gazebo came into view.  I turned back to him.

            “This is where you took me to see it snow,” I said softly.  He smiled.

            “I knew you’d recognize it,” he said opening his door and getting out.  He walked around to open my door for me, “It’s not snowing like last time, but--” I left the food containers on the seat as I stood up and kissed Paul mid-sentence.  He embraced me and pushed me lightly against the car with his body.  He traced his fingers down my side and his touch was so warm I felt him right through my dress.  I pulled away gently and ran my fingers through his hair—my fingertips slowly caressing the back of his neck.  He closed his eyes and just rested his head in the curve of my neck.  He kissed me lightly there and brought his head up, “Come on there’s more,” I grabbed the food from the car and as he took my hand I followed him through the grass to the Gazebo.  I smiled as when we drew closer, ‘I’ll Be Seeing You’ grew louder and louder.  My heart completely melted as a little red blanket sat in the middle of the structure with two wine glasses, and surrounded by flower petals—and even around the Gazebo little white lights were shimmering in the dusk. 

            “Paul,” I barely choked out.  I laughed out of pure love and shock. He smiled.

            “Yes?”

            “Why me?” I asked him and he looked at me confused.

            “What do you mean?”

            “Why am I the one you chose to be with?  You treat me better than anyone I’ve ever met, you’re everything to me, and, sometimes, I feel like I don’t deserve you,” I said a tear falling.  He smiled and came closer to me, pulling me against him.

            “I chose you because you’re everything I ever dreamed for.  You’re the one I can’t stop thinking about, the one that I wake up every morning excited to talk to and see.  The one that makes me want to be a better person, the one that fills me with inspiration, the one that I love with all my heart—all my being,” he said and I let out a little laugh—my tears continuing to fall.  He softly lifted my chin to look into my eyes.  His sparkled with such love as he pressed his lips against mine.  They were so warm and soft, and he slowly entered his tongue in and pulled me even closer and stroked my back gently sending goose bumps all over my body, “It’s not you who doesn’t deserve me, it’s me that doesn’t deserve you,” Paul said pulling away.  He kissed me on the head, “Come ‘ead, let’s eat,” he smiled and led me to the blanket and we got out our food and had a little picnic. It’s was so peaceful and nice.  The music continued to play a number of slower romantic songs, many of which had sentimental value to us—I’m assuming something Paul made.  After wards we packed our stuff and Paul stood up.

            “What are you doing?” I asked him.  He held out his hand.

            “Let’s dance,” he said and I stood smiling and resting my head and body against his, feeling his chest rise up and down with every breath.  We danced to ‘Unchained Melody’—a perfect song.

            “Why did you do all this?” I asked. 

            “Because I love you, because I love to spoil my baby girl,” he smiled and I laughed, “And well, we didn’t’ really get to do anything for our first year anniversary—so you could think of it as a late celebration for that,” I shook my head.

            “You amaze me everyday,” I said leaning on him again as we swayed to the music.  We danced to the end of the song and noticed the sun was setting.

            “Let’s go over here,” Paul said pulling on me a bit.

            “Where?” I asked as he walked down the steps of the Gazebo and down a little path through the trees, “Where are we going?”

            “To the water,” he replied.

            “We’re right next to the ocean?” I asked amazed.  There were so many trees you would have no idea.  We emerged through the other side and sure enough the ocean lay before us.  I took off my shoes and Paul and I walked along the beach for a few minutes then sat to enjoy the sun set, “This is so beautiful,” I whispered to Paul and he turned to kiss me, bringing me close for a cuddle.  We didn’t even have to say anything to make it romantic and wonderful.  Just being in each other’s arm, each other’s presence, was enough.  We sat in silence till the sun was down and we headed back to the car.  I shut the door and Paul turned the ignition, but before driving I moved over so I was sitting right next to him and I kissed him gently.  He looked at me and smiled, resting his right hand on my inner thigh.  We drove home and I leaned on Paul’s shoulder breathing in his aroma of smoke, cologne, and aftershave.  He pulled up to the Ramada.  I lifted my head.

            “The Ramada aye?” I smiled and he laughed,

“Yeah, many memories here,” he said.  We emerged from the car and walked towards the door.

“Do you have a reservation and everything?” I asked as Paul got out a key.

“Yeah, I’ve already been here to check it out,” he said, “It’s the same room we stayed in when we first hung out with you,” he sang the next bit in the tune of ‘When I’m 64’, “many years ago,” he smiled.

“You’re leaving me speechless with all this,” I smiled happy.

“That’s the point love,” he said looking down at me with smiles in his eyes.  We walked in and into the elevator.

“Thank you for a wonderful evening,” I said kissing him and squeezing his hand, “That was so romantic,”

“You’re welcome, but it’s not over yet darling,” he said as the elevators opened.  I looked at him confused.

“What more could you have possibly done?”

“You’ll see,” he said smiling and placing his arm around my waist.  We got to the familiar room and Paul stuck the key in, “Close you eyes,” he told me.  I did as he told me and he opened the door a warm aroma hitting my face.  I heard the door close behind me and Paul moved me a little more into the room.

“Now?” I asked.

“Now,” I opened my eyes and gasped.  The room was filled with rose petals (still my favorite) and the lights were dimmed down low.  Set all around the room were black and white photos of Paul and me in various occasions—some of which I didn’t even know existed.  The famous one of Paul and I at the Lovebird store, laying center on the bed next to a square package.  I couldn’t help myself and tears began to fall.  Paul just stood watching me as I walked around the room touching each beautiful picture with my finger tips.  There were pictures of when he first knew each other to when we got married and beyond.

“Paul this is—so--” I couldn’t speak so I just covered my mouth with my hand and cried.  Paul walked over to me and he knew I was crying out of love and happiness so he just held me in his arms.

“I have a gift for you,” Paul said leaning over and picking up the box on the bed.  I looked up at him, “Go on, open it,” he said smiling.  I released my grasp of him and slowly opened the box.  Inside lay a picture fame with the engraved words, “To know what love is, is not enough—but to feel love is the greatest gift in the world,” I wiped away the tears that dripped onto the picture of Paul, myself, and Mary sleeping in the hospital bed after she was born.

“Isn’t that great?” Paul asked me, “A nurse called me up a while ago and said that our nurse took that of us one of the days we were there,”

“This is incredible, it’s so beautiful,” I said moving my hand slowly over our sleeping faces in the picture.

“Isn’t it though?  It’s just perfect, and she thought I was going to be mad that she took a photo of us, but I told her it’s amazing,” he laughed to himself.  I wrapped my arms around him tighter than ever.

“I love you so much,” I whispered to him.  He squeezed me tighter.

“And I love you, happy anniversary sweetheart,” he said and I pulled away to kiss him. 

“When did you do all this?” I asked.  I was always amazed when he found time to do all these things without me knowing.  He smiled.

“Oh come ‘ead love, if I told you that—it would ruin the effect.  Besides, it wouldn’t be fun then anyway.  I just have me ways,” I set the picture down on the desk and hugged him again.

“Thank you so much,” I whispered again.  I felt him nod and he slowly moved me towards the bed, giving me little kisses on my mouth, neck, and chest as we went.  I smiled as I leaned back on the soft satin sheets, Paul moving on top of me, resting most of his weight on his elbows.  As he kissed me, he ran his right hand down the length of my body sending shivers down my spine.  He has touched me so many times, in so many places, and in so many ways, but he never ceased to make me feel warm and tingly every time he did it.  I slowly unbuttoned his shirt pushing him over so I was on top, kissing every inch of his chest down to where his pants began.  He groaned as his breath got deeper.  I unzipped his pants and moved back up to him to kiss his mouth.  He unzipped my dress and slowly sat me up so I was straddling him.  We just looked at each other as he slowly slipped the silky material off my shoulders so the dress pooled around my waist.  He ran his fingers down me and kissed me sending my hormones into overdrive.  He leaned me on my back then and did things that only he could ever do.  That night was full of passion, pleasure, and love and it’s a night I’ll never forget.