Aint too proud to beg sfdg-1 (25 page)

Josie nodded.

I was in jail four months before Christmas of that year. I couldnt have gotten her pregnant.

Josie sat up straight. Are you absolutely sure?

Sweetie, I was a guest of the city of Milwaukee from late August to the beginning of October, when my dad finally got the charges dropped. I was three weeks late starting the semester at Yale, but the registrar let me in anywayyet another problem my father managed to make go away.

Josie blinked.

Margot may have claimed I was the father, but I wasnt. He watched Josies face, relieved by her tentative smile. I can have my arrest records by the end of the day.

I dont need records, just your word, Josie whispered, the tears gathering in her eyes. Mrs. Needleman told me that when I talked to you Id know whether I could trust you, right here. Josie took one of Ricks hands and pressed his finger into her belly. She was right. I will never doubt you again, Rick.

He fell into her, and she welcomed him into her arms. After the initial rush of relief, Rick grabbed her and pulled her onto his lap. He kissed her softly, letting his lips tell her all the things words could not do justicethat she was the love of his life, the glue that held all the good things together.

Genghis began to lick Ricks face, ruining the moment. They both started laughing.

I think hes jealous, Rick said.

No. Hes just missed you. Josie touched Ricks cheek. Hes started sleeping by the door. Hes been waiting for you.

Thank you for coming to talk to me. Rick propped her up on one of his knees. Dont ever be afraid to ask me about my pastor my present or future for that matter. Theres nothing I dont want to share with you.

Really? Josie bit her bottom lip. You love me like that?

Rick chuckled. Would you like to know just how much I love you?

Josie nodded, her eyes sparkling.

Lets stand up for a minute. Josie jumped to her feet and pulled Rick up.

Now, close your eyes for me. She did. Keep them closed.

Rick dug into the front pocket of his shorts, pulling out the little velvet box hed been carrying around since the night his proposal was interrupted. It seemed like years ago.

He got down on one knee. He opened the box and offered it up in his right hand. Genghis plopped at Ricks side. Clearly, this was going to be a team effort.

You can open your eyes now, Josie.

She gasped, and her hands flew to her mouth in astonishment.

Will you marry me? Will you try this with me?

I will! she shouted, half laughing and half crying, staring at the ring in awe. I think Im about to get carried away again, she said, just before she pounced on him.

T
he August air was clear and cool, and a few clouds floated across the blue sky. Samhain Ranch was in full bloom, the grapes plump and round, the fig trees heavy with fruit, the gardens bursting with outrageous color and scent. The one hundred or so invited guests mingled on the lawn and sipped champagne, their laughter rising and falling on the breeze. Dogs and children weaved in and out of long skirts and tablecloths. Josie couldnt help itshed been spying from behind the thick vines of the guest cottages second-story balcony, and she couldnt tear herself away.

It was her wedding day. Who would have ever imagined that Josephine Agnes Sheehans wedding would look like something from a storybook? Who wouldve imagined shed be marrying a man like Rick Rousseau?

Frankly, whod ever imagined Josie getting married, period?

Theres not going to be a wedding if you dont finish getting dressed!

That was Beth, yelling from downstairs.

Josie, we cant find your fathers cummerbund! That was her mother. He might have left it at home! Sweet Mother of Jesus! /Psst./ Josie turned in surprise to see Rick perched on a bedroom windowsill.

She laughed in surprise, her heart soaring at the sight of him. How in the world did you get up here? Youre not supposed to see the bride before the ceremony!

Too bad. Rick took a few strides toward her, but stopped abruptly. My God, youre beautiful.

Josie stepped in from the balcony and faced him, immediately feeling his lustful gaze burn her skin. She wore only her white stockings and garter, satin heels, and a white lace bustier and panties. She put her hands on her hips. Well, I sure hope you like what you see because youve just ruined your big wedding-night surprise, Rousseau.

A huge smile spread across Ricks face and he rubbed his close-shaven chin. Ill pretend like Ive never seen it before. I swear. He chuckled.

But, since Ive already ruined it, would you mind just turning around for me? Just once?

Josie did a half spin, raised her arms, and wiggled her hips like a hula dancer. When she turned back around, Rick looked flushed.

You okay?

No, Rick said, hopping down from the windowsill and adjusting his tuxedo trousers. I dont think its appropriate for a guy to get married with a raging hard-on. It may even be against the law.

It was Josies turn to admire her betrothed. Ricks hair was neatly trimmed and combed back from his strong, handsome face. His mellow green eyes smoldered in contrast to the pure white of his tuxedo shirt and white tie. They also matched the green of the two serpent heads peeking up from the collar. The perfectly cut black Armani jacket and trousers gave him a sleek, sophisticated look. The entire ensemble was topped off by his worn running shoes and no socks.

Rick saw her expression. Dont worry. Ill change into my other shoesI just didnt want to climb the trellis in those things. No traction.

Of course, Josie said, smiling. They held each others gaze for a long moment, saying nothing, each savoring the vision of the other. She felt it. She knew it. Rick was the one for her. She was the one for him.

I finished my vows this morning, he said, a touch of pride in his voice.

And everythings loaded up in the limo.

Thats great.

Rick came closer and reached for her hands. Are you okay, sweetie? You seem a little quiet.

Josie nodded and said she was fine, but the tears started. Im blown away by all this, Rick! My Godwere getting married! She blotted at her eyes.

I cant start crying now or Ill never stop!

Its okay, baby. Rick pulled her close and cradled her in his arms. He held her carefully, aware of her complicated hairdo and her makeup. He kissed the top of her head with the utmost caution. You know you can always tell me anything, no matter what it is. He paused. Are you having second thoughts?

Josie pushed herself away and stared at him with wide eyes. Are you freakin nuts? she asked. They both laughed loudly. Are /you/ having second thoughts?

Hell, no. I am the happiest man that ever lived. /Who are you talking to?/ That was Beth shouting again, only this time she sounded much closer. Oh, my God! Get out! Beth yelled, pointing an accusing finger at Rick and retreating from the bedroom door. Mom! Rick snuck into Josies room!

What? her mother screeched from downstairs. Beth, get down here and help me with this godforsaken, muddy-mettled rascal of a dress!

Rick raised an eyebrow. /Henry V?/ /Hamlet./ Im outta here. His hand slipped from Josies grasp and he hurried to the window.

Hey, Rick? she called after him.

He turned, halfway over the windowsill.

Thank you. Josie didnt know why she said those particular words, but they were what needed to be said.

For what, sweet Josie?

For agreeing to have that cup of coffee with me. I know saying yes wasnt your first instinct.

Rick tilted his head. She watched his smile tighten as a wave of emotion swept across his face. For a moment, she thought he was going to cry, too. Thank you for asking me, he said, swallowing hard. I know it wasnt your first instinct, either.

Josie nodded.

Rick blew her a kiss. Im going to spend every day showing you how happy I am to have you in my life.

Josephine Agnes?

Josie turned to see her mother and Beth in the hallway, holding Josies wedding gown aloft. Behind them were Roxanne, Bea, and Ginger, in matching moss-green gowns accented by matching expressions of amusement.

Bea dramatically crossed her eyes, sucked in her cheeks, and made a peace sign over Beths head. Josie laughed.

Do you want to get married or not? Her mother nodded at the yards of cream-colored satin carefully draped over her arm. Ricks photographer friend is getting antsy. Youre in your underwear. Your father has no cummerbund.

Josie glanced toward the window again, but Rick was gone. She ran to the balcony in time to see him, in his tuxedo and running shoes, sneaking across the lawn to the main house. An agitated Teeny waited for him, gesturing wildly.

Josie felt the happiness start with a little flutter in her belly. It raced through her heart, where it gathered force and speed, and blossomed into a huge smile.

She turned to the women in the doorway. Lets get this party started!

Because Mrs. Needleman turned out to be about four feet tall, even in her orthopedic dress shoes, Rick and Teeny had to build a wooden dais for her to stand on during the ceremony. Theyd draped it in a white tablecloth and stuck flowers all around it, and it had looked fine at the time, but seeing her standing there now, a book of poetry in her hands, Rick realized Mrs. Needleman looked like the decorative topper to an oversized wedding cake.

He couldnt help but laugh.

Teeny leaned down and whispered in his ear. Dont you dare start that, man. Its more contagious than crying.

Rick was saved when the string quartet struck its first chord of the Bach Air. It was time.

The bridesmaids began their procession across the lawn, one by one, down a center aisle of manicured grass. Beth came first, beaming with happiness. She was followed by Bea, who looked thrilled but moved as if she hadnt worn a dress in forty years, which, according to Josie, she hadnt. Roxanne was stunning with all that dark hair pulled up at her neck. Ginger was her usual knockout self but looked like shed been poured into her dress, which might explain why his photographer buddy Lucio hadnt taken his eyes off her the entire day.

Then there was Josie.

Rick swallowed hard, his heart bursting at the sight of his beautiful bride. If he thought Josie had looked good in lingerie, it had been a warm-up for this. She was stunning as she walked slowly toward him on her fathers arm.

Josie was nervoushe could tell by the way she blushed. But it only made her more radiant. She was all smiles, soft curls, and sparkling eyes.

Her curves were wrapped up in a floor-length, sleeveless dress as elegant as it was uncomplicated. It suited her perfectly. It suited the setting.

When Josie reached him, Rick pumped her dads hand, then guided Josie to their place in front of Mrs. Needleman. Rick stole a quick glance at Josie before the ceremony began, and winked at her. She giggled.

He tried his best to stay in the moment, but the truth was, it all went by in a blur. Mrs. Needleman said a few sweet and kind things about the two of them, adding that destiny had had a hand in their union. Despite all of Ricks worries, when the time came for him to say his vows it went off without a hitch. Josie got so choked up when he spoke of how her love had brought him back to life that Beth shoved a lacy handkerchief in her hand.

Josies vows were similarly short and sweet. She said that no one could change the past, and that today was all any of them had. She promised to treat her husband with honesty and kindness and to greet each day they shared with gratitude. At that point, Rick held out his hand so Beth could pass the handkerchief.

Mrs. Needleman said a few more words, but Rick hardly heard them. He was too focused on his brides beautiful face, on those delightful lips that hed be privileged to kiss for the rest of his days.

He truly thought he heard Mrs. Needleman say he could kiss the bride, so he did. As soon as his mouth landed on Josies, the laughter erupted all around him, Teenys guffaw the loudest. Rick popped up his head in embarrassment.

Who am I to stand in loves way? Mrs. Needleman said with a dramatic shrug. Go and be joyous. Know you are protected and blessed in your union.

So thats it? Rick asked, to more laughter, including his wifes. This wasnt going as smoothly as hed planned, but then again, the fact that he was getting married at all was a surprise. A surprise of the sweetest kind.

So can I kiss her now? Rick whispered. Mrs. Needleman nodded and Rick dove into his love, his wife, his life. A moment later, they were walking across the lawn hand in hand to cheers and hoots. Bea let loose with one of her Superdome-worthy whistles.

After the bride and groom spent an hour or so eating wedding cake and sipping champagne with their guests, Rick escorted Josie to the Harley.

It was parked at the top of the lane, festooned with white sparkly streamers. While the guests took their places along both sides of the road, Rick helped Josie gather her skirts and straddle the back of the bike. He fastened the helmet under her chin and kissed her nose. They might only be cruising to the end of the dirt road, where their white stretch limousine waited, but he would take no chances.

Rick didnt miss the irony: They were headed to the North Pole via Finland, then Rus sia, and a week at sea on a nuclear-powered icebreaker, yet, for him, this short motorcycle ride would be the most difficult leg of the journey.

You want to try this with me? Josie asked.

More than anything.

She smiled at him. I have a feeling its going to be a grand adventure.

Rick kissed her quickly and put on his own helmet. Her arms reached around his middle as he revved up the Harley engine. Under a shower of flower petals and best wishes, Rick and Josie rode off into their future, moving at a cautious fifteen miles an hour.

Gloria Needleman rested her head against the back of a wicker porch chair, propped her feet on a matching stool, and adjusted an uncomfortable twist in her support hose. She closed her eyes. It had been a glorious dayone of the most delightfully tender ceremonies shed ever officiatedbut, without a doubt, Josie and Ricks wedding was not the end of this assignment. It was just the beginning. /Im getting too old for this drek,/ Gloria thought, sighing.

Fifty bucks says shes pregnant in a year.

Giggles erupted from Josies friends when the oldest one, Beatrice, made that observation, which was likely correct.

Gloria cracked open an eye just enough to study the women undetected.

They sat not more than fifteen feet away on the front porch of the main house, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow over them, their matching dresses fluttering in the breeze from the ceiling fan. Their shoes were off. Their faces were happy and relaxed.

It amused Gloria how these women thought it was a coincidence that theyd befriended each other at the newspaper and stayed together all these years despite their obvious differences. Gloria knew better. She knew that people entered your life to help you learn the lessons you needed to learn, and Josie and her friends were no exception.

Wrong again, Bea, said the dark-haired beauty named Roxanne. I say itll be nine months to the day. Just watch.

Gloria shook her head imperceptibly. This Roxanne had driven them all to the ranch yesterday in a car advertising that she vomited on all men. It said so right on her bumper sticker! The girl thought she had it all figured outat the age of twenty-eight, no less. Oy! Was this one ever in for a shock!

The gorgeous Ginger chimed in next, and Gloria watched as she stretched out a pair of legs that went from here to forever, as the men back in her day would say. But goodness, the womans bridesmaid dress was tight!

It was a wonder she could breathe!

I dont care when it happens for Josie, just so long as it does, Ginger said, pulling at the sleeveless bodice of the dress. Today was so romantic it almostIm saying /almost/makes me willing to believe in love again!

Gloria chuckled to herself. The comely Ginger wouldnt know romance if it bit her in the tuchus. Which it was about to do. The dear girl was so afraid of being over the hill that, if she wasnt careful, she would miss her chance to be over the moon.

I bet I know what made you a believer, Bea said, with enough of an edge that Gloria knew a punch line was coming. Casanova the cameraman!

Excuse me? Ginger sat up straighter.

Roxanne nodded. Your gawking radiated so much heat I worried the wedding party would spontaneously combust.

Ginger eyed Roxanne with suspicion. Really? What about you and the new puppy head-peeper Rick invited here today? You two sure got chummy real fast.

That was business, Roxanne said, pulling back her shoulders. Eli is a pet behaviorist and hes going to help me with Liliths aggression issues.