Chapter 27: festivities

Two months later. It's the evening before the wedding and Zach is sitting in the backyard, Ryan joins him.

Are you mentally preparing?

No, I'm just enjoying the peace and quiet before everybody arrives tomorrow.

Ah yeas, the last bastion of freedom is what they call it.

I'm not sure that you're supposed to be saying that to me right before I'm marrying your daughter.

Relax, I'm just kidding son.

Son? Aren't you a day early?

Let's not stand on ceremony. You make my daughter happy, that's all a father could ever hope for.

She makes me just as happy, I wouldn't be here without her.

I know, I just wanted to make sure that you weren't getting cold feet.

Zach shakes his head with determination.

I get chased around by two hundred and fifty plus pound men for a living. If I can handle that, I can handle spending the rest of my life with Rebecca.

I'm not going to pretend to be a relationship expert, but you two work together. With all these big life changes lately and the pressure that comes along with it. If you weren't right for each other, you wouldn't have made it through all those things.

We're honest with each other, because of that we aren't afraid to be completely open.

I'm going to be honest with you. When Rebecca told me that she was dating a football player... I feared the worst.

I understand, the stereotype isn't flattering.

You're both wise beyond your years.

Look at you dropping the "bad cop" routine. You want season tickets, don't you?

Ryan laughs.

It would be rude to say no. Goodnight, see you tomorrow.

Goodnight... dad.

The next morning is halfway through putting his suit on when he's interrupted by a knock on the door.

Come in.

The door opens and he immediately notices that Lisa is wearing a knee length pastel pink dress.

Wow that's different. You look very pretty though.

Thanks... it's very tight, not comfortable at all. Anyway, Rebecca asked me to come see how you are doing.

I'm fine, not nervous.

I know, it gave me an excuse to come see you.

Is something wrong?

No, I just missed you. We haven't been apart like his since we were... eight?

Something like that, long enough that I stopped keeping track. How are things with Elle?

Better every day now that we're "out in the open".

I told you so.

Yeah yeah, you're amazing.

It took you long enough to realize it, better late than never.

Normally I would retort with a sly remark... but its true, Rebecca is a lucky girl.

Zach pulls her in for a hug.

So is Elle... most of the time anyway.

Very funny, but not entirely false. I'm working on it though, this whole lovey dovey stuff is new for me.

Trying to get better at it is all it takes. I'm not exactly Casanova either, I see effort as proof of my commitment.

Considering that you're getting married today I would say that it worked, so I'll keep it in mind.

Zach puts on his jacket.

Speaking of getting married, how do I look?

Handsome, but your hair needs some work. I'll send Ruby up.

See you in a bit.

A minute later Ruby arrives.

Hey Zach, congrats on the big day.

Thanks. Its good to see you again, how are things at ECU?

Great, thanks to all of you I'm totally over my anxiety.

I'm happy to hear that.

Could you sit down? You're much to tall for me to reach your head comfortably.

She spends a couple minutes styling Zach's hair.

There, that's perfect. And Rebecca deserves nothing less than perfect.

I couldn't agree more.

Now that he's fully ready Zach heads downstairs and runs into Sam.

Glad to see that you could make it.

Wouldn't miss it for the world. How are you feeling?

Excited mixed with just the right amount of nerves.

You're much more responsible than your father was at your age. In our first year together, I remember your mom always keeping him on a short leash. She knew exactly how much of a clown he could be, but she loved him for it.

Rebecca grounds me too, she's been my rock several times already.

He would be proud to see you here today.

Thank you. And he would be thankful for everything that you've done for us, so am I.

You're very welcome, good luck up there.

Zach makes way into the backyard and a football comes flying his way, he manages to catch it last second.

That was a good throw Caleb! You've been practicing since I last saw you.

Mom always talks about how much you practice, so if I'm ever going to be as good as you then I have to practice even more.

That's the right mindset to have.

Lauren joins them and kisses Caleb on his cheek.

Hard work is its own reward.

Gross mom, now I have your lipstick all over my face.

No complaining mister, you look so cute today in your suit.

Caleb visibly cringes.

That's so embarrassing.

Zach can't help but laugh.

So typical for a teenage boy. Listen to me Caleb, I'll teach you something about girls. If a girl sees that you treat your mother well, she'll know that you're capable of doing the same for her. It might be something that is more for when you're a bit older, but you should always remember that. And if you don't believe me, we can always go ask Elle or Ruby if you want?

No. that won't be necessary... I believe you.

There's no need to be nervous, they're very nice. If you ever want to talk about anything related to "growing up" just come to me.

Thanks, I will. Sorry mom...

It's ok, I'll try to keep the kisses in public to a minimum. See you after the ceremony Zach.

On his way to the podium, he sees Ella and Nika. He decides to go say hi to them.

Hello ladies, catching up?

So much happened since we last saw each other, I missed you Nika.

Seems like you replaced me just fine though, I'm assuming Lisa is your "right hand" now?

Something like that...

Zach nudges Elle with his elbow.

Come on, tell her.

Elle takes a deep breath.

Lisa and I are dating.

Really?! I'm so happy for you!

Not as happy as I am for you and Marcus though. How long do you have left?

A bit less than a month, I'm starting to get nervous.

Nothing to be nervous about, you have a lot of people to help you with the baby.

That's true, aunt Elle.

I can get used to that.

Zach gives them both a short hug.

I'm going to leave you two to it, I want to talk to my mom before the ceremony starts.

Natasha clamps onto him as soon as he sits down next to her.

You're acting as if this is the last hug you're ever going to get.

Don't mind me. I've been an emotional mess all day, my boy is getting married.

What was yours and dads wedding like?

Similar. A couple friends, our parents and grandparents. With some dancing afterwards, your dad was an... enthusiastic dancer.

That's something we don't have in common.

Your dad was always the life of the party, his battery was always charged to one hundred percent. When I told him that you were on the way is when he learned moderation. He started to become more responsible over time and saved up all of his goofiness for when he was playing with you.

I only have partial memories of him. But I do remember one of your birthdays, when we got that massive layered cake.

He ended up dropping almost half of it. So typical... he always made me laugh, one of the main reasons why I married him.

Dad made you happy, like Rebecca makes me.

Yes, he did... it's almost time, you should join Marcus and the others on the podium.

I love you mom.

Love you too.

Zach joins his friends on the podium.

Looking good guys.

Marcus pats him on the shoulder.

You ready?

All I have to say is "I do" right? piece of cake.

The music starts playing and Zach turns his eyes down the aisle.

Lisa, Elle and Ruby are first. Lars help them up the steps one by one.

Rebecca starts making her way down the aisle. She's wearing a dress with a big princess style skirt and a sparkly strapless corset on top. Charlotte helps her with her skirt while Ryan holds her hand.

Zach can't stop smiling when Rebecca takes her place next to him.

Hello there princess.

What can I say? I've wanted to wear a dress like this ever since I was a little girl.

You look amazing. It's going to be hard to dance in though.

I'll figure that out later, first things first.

She grabs Zach's hand and nods to the minister.

Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join Zachary Gray and Rebecca Lindsley in marriage. I suggest we go straight to the vows, unless there's anybody who objects?

Lisa loudly and sternly replies.

There isn't!

Everybody in attendance bursts out laughing.

Well... go ahead then.

Zach winks at her.

Ladies first.

She nods and takes a deep breath.

My dearest Zach, I was hopelessly in love with you from the first second we met. Being the shy the girl that I had always been, I would have never found the courage to ask you out. Luckily, and to my surprise it was you who asked me. My hands went numb and my legs turned to jelly, as a medical student... I was fairly alarmed. Preparing four that date, I must have tried on every piece of clothing I owned and redid my hair five or six times. When you, the guy I was head over heels for smiled and told me I looked beautiful it filled me with the most wonderful feeling I had ever felt. You make me feel like that every day.

Zach kisses her hand, wipes a tear away and takes a second to compose himself.

As you all can probably tell, I'm not good at dealing with my emotions. And for some reason that I still can't explain this, cute, pretty and adorable girl in front of me made me feel comfortable and safe for the first time in my life. That evening when I got injured after my first game at ECU, we talked openly without any reservations... that's when I knew you were the one that I wanted to be with for the rest of my life. People have been praising me from a young age, and while that was amazing... it also brought along a lot of pressure, and I was never truly good at dealing with it. Lucky for me Rebecca is very good at dealing with... me. She's helped me through several moments where I was self destructing. What I'm trying to say is that you make me the best I can be. I could never do what I do without you... you complete me.

Elle quickly hands Rebecca a tissue and winks to the people in attendance.

A good bridesmaid is always prepared.

Thank you Elle.

The minister gives her a second to gather herself.

Let's move on to the rings.

Marcus steps forward.

Here you go brother.

Lisa does the same.

Kept it nice and safe for you Rebecca.

Zachary Gray, do you take Rebecca to be your lawful wedded wife?

I most certainly do.

Rebecca Lindsley, do you take Zach...

Yes! I do!

Oh... eager. Then I pronounce you husband and wife.

They share a passionate but tasteful kiss under loud applause.

Afterwards they spend some time taking pictures with their parents and friends.

Zach takes Lisa's hand when they finish.

I have a surprise for you, it's inside the party tent.

She apprehensively steps inside.

Mom, dad!

She runs over and hugs them.

Take a moment to yourselves, I'll be back in a bit.

He walks back over to Rebecca.

Where did you run off to all of a sudden?

I invited Lisa's parents, they're catching up in the tent. I wanted to give them some privacy.

That's so nice! Should we tell Elle?

I think we should. They're here, so they'll meet eventually. It's better to do it in private.

You're right. Elle, come here for a second.

Sure, what's up?

Zach invited Lisa's parents.

You did...?

Yes, I gave them a moment alone in the tent. Now would be a good moment to introduce yourself, if you want too of course.

I definitely do, but does Lisa want that?

If she's as serious about you as she claims, she'll have to do it eventually. And there's not going to be a better moment then right now.

Rebecca puts her arm around Elle to comfort her.

Don't be nervous. You're amazing, they'll love you.

Thanks... here goes nothing.

Zach walks back into the tent, Elle apprehensively follows him.

Sorry for interrupting, but somebody wanted to introduce herself.

Hello mister and misses Sanders, I'm Elle.

Nice to meet you.

Her parents look at Lisa questioningly. She looks towards Elle with some fear in her eyes, when she smiles back at her Lisa gathers herself and reaches out for Elle's hand.

Mom, dad... Elle is my girlfriend, we have been dating for a while.

Her parents look at each other and try to suppress their laughter.

Finally, took you long enough. Tell us about yourself Elle.

Oh... well, I'm graduating as a lawyer next year... that's pretty much it.

Zach buds in to give her a confidence boost.

She's being modest. Elle is the smartest person at ECU, captain of the cheerleaders and student council president. Lisa got herself a good one.

Elle blushes and looks towards the ground.

It's nothing...

Lisas mom laughs.

Lisa could learn from your humbleness.

Mom!

Just kidding. Seriously Elle, very impressive.

Thank you.

Zach motions them to their table.

We should get ready for dinner... why do I feel like I'm forgetting something?

Lisa scoffs loudly.

Your wife maybe?

Zach rushes out of the tent in a slight panic.

Right, be right back!

He escorts Rebecca towards their table.

Before we eat, there is one last tradition. Take it away... wife.

Thank you so much... husband. Will all the ladies please gather on the soon to be dancefloor? It's time to toss the bouquet.

While all the ladies start taking their place, Zach gets surprised.

Congratulations handsome.

Claudia! Glad to see that you could make it. Aren't you supposed to be out there with the other women?

No, I've done the whole marriage thing before... once was enough. Kind of cruel of you to invite me to your wedding, I thought we had something.

Sorry, I didn't mean to break your heart.

I'll survive, it's just a "midlife crisis" ... if women can have those.

Doesn't that usually mean that you buy a sport car?

Sport car or handsome young boytoy, both are good for a wild ride.

They both burst out laughing.

In all seriousness, I'm happy for you both.

Thank you. A woman with your... qualities should have no trouble finding a good man. But be selective, make him prove himself. He has to earn you.

I'll keep that in mind, until then I'm just going to focus on myself.

Sound like the right thing to do.

Meanwhile Rebecca launches the bouquet over everybody's head and straight into Lars's hands.

He stands there not knowing what to do with himself for several seconds until he shyly hands the bouquet to Ruby.

Here, you'll appreciate it more than I would.

She's surprised but smiles back at him as she accepts the flowers.

Thats very sweet, thank you.

After everybody has finished their dinner, Zach and Rebecca walk onto the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife.

You look uncomfortable, are you nervous Zach?

A bit, I don't want to step on your toes.

Just focus on me and follow my lead.

Isn't the man supposed to lead?

Who cares about that stuff anymore?

I suppose you're right, lead on.

The first minute of the song passes and Rebecca's toes are still intact.

So far so good.

Told you that it would be fine, drama queen.

Fair enough, I just want today to be perfect for you.

It is, I don't think that I've fully processed the fact that we're married.

Not having any regrets, are you?

No! Silly, I'm over the moon.

Good, because there's no way that I'm letting you go.

Good, I don't want you to.

Their opening dance wraps up and the party properly starts.

After a while Zach gives up and lets the girls have their fun, he decides to take a seat next to Charlotte.

Haven't seen you all day. Not on the dancefloor?

I've been scrambling around all day, I'm a bit tired.

I'm sorry to hear that, did you at least enjoy the day a little bit?

Don't get me wrong. I may be tired, but I'm very happy. The smile that has been on Rebecca's face all day is all a mother could ever ask for.

I'm very happy to hear you say that. I just wanted this day to be perfect for her.

It was. Trust me, she didn't stop talking about it until you two were dancing. Have you adjusted to life here yet?

We're getting there. Rebecca has all of her school and her internship stuff taken care off. So until school starts back up again, she's mostly focusing on decorating.

She does enjoy that, when she was young she must have changed her bedroom five times during high school alone. How about you? It must be quite the transition.

True, it is. But I have Rebecca, my mom, Marcus, Lauren and two friends here with me. And if I need advice, I know that I have Sam to fall back on. I still have a month left until training camp, so I'm mostly staying in shape and studying the new playbook.

And how is that going?

Pretty good actually. It's mostly Laurens's terminology so the transition isn't that crazy, there's just a lot more of it.

It's good to see that you're both adjusting well. I was a bit nervous that with everything going so fast that the pressure might have gotten to you, a lot of couples break up over less.

If there's one thing that I learned from my father's passing, it's that the important things are worth fighting for. Life is full of surprises, some pleasant... some the opposite. We have to make sure that we make the most of it, you never know when it might be taken away.

I like that, taking something positive from a negative situation.

Some days I believe it more than others, but if you don't even try what else are you left with.

True, and now you have each other for support on the lesser days.

Exactly.

Let's leave all these heavy topics for now, go have a drink with the guys.

Ok, but I want to see you dance at least once tonight. If you don't, I'll tell Rebecca.

Fine, I promise.

Zach walks over to the bar and joins Marcus, Lars, Fred and Daquan for a drink.

What's up boys, having a good time?

Fred knocks back the last bit of his beer.

Lars sure is, he can't keep his eyes away from Ruby.

Can you blame me? Look at her! The way she moves... that girl knows how to dance and then some.

Daquan can't help but laugh a bit.

Looks like Lars is in love.

No, it's not like that. She's just very pretty and it's hard not to look...

Marcus takes away his drink.

You're right, she absolutely is. But you're being borderline creepy, you should stop drinking.

I'm not... ok I'm drunk. I almost never drink and I went too far... I'm sorry.

Zach helps him sit down and orders him a glass of water.

It's ok, now you know your limit. Drink some water and sober up.

Fred sits down next to him.

Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on him.

Zach sits down at a table with Marcus while Lars takes a break.

How are you doing brother? It's not like you to drink.

That obvious huh? With fatherhood drawing near I thought I would try it out. Just kidding of course... I'm getting more nervous every day.

Can't blame you it's a big deal. You need to keep in mind all the most valuable lessons that you've learned and pass them on.

I didn't think about it that way before.

It's just like football, you keep working and take a step forward every day. You'll be a great father, don't pressure yourself into being perfect from day one.

You're right, I have to slow down. It's not like I have to do it by myself either, Nika will be there with me.

Don't forget about uncle Zach and aunt Rebecca! My mom is here too for advice if you ever need it.

What would I do without you?

You would have been just fine. You've always been a hard worker, adversity brings out the best in you.

If you ever quit football you should become a motivational speaker.

I'll write that down as my plan B if I turn out to be a draft bust.

There's no way that you'll be a bust, I won't let you fail.

Thanks for having my back. But I haven't thrown a single pas against true NFL level competition yet, so I'm going to make sure that I'm as prepared as I can possibly be.

That's fine, but right now you're going to take at least a week for yourself and Rebecca. You're putting too much on your plate again.

You're probably right, I need a break.

You can start tonight... you know what I'm talking about.

Calm down, I'm not planning on being in your position nine months from now.

That doesn't mean you can't have any fun.

You're definitely right about that! We're so lucky they can't hear us right now.

After having a fun evening together with everyone, Zach and Rebecca head to their bedroom to finally have some alone time.

Zach pulls her in close and puts his arms around her as soon as Rebecca closes the door.

As much as I love having everybody here... I've been looking forward to this all day.

Is that so? Why is that?

You know well enough by now how beautiful I think you are. But today with that dress, hair... you've never looked as incredible as you do right now.

Good, that's exactly what I was going for.

And now that we're married, you're officially all mine.

That goes both ways handsome.

He places his hand on the back of her neck and looks deep into her eyes.

Yes it does.

They start kissing and the passion between them reaches an all time high. Rebecca's breathing gets heavier as she starts unbuttoning his shirt.

So eager.

That's an understatement, unzip my dress!

He kisses her neck as he slowly pulls down the zipper. She takes a step away from him, turns around and lets the dress drop to the floor revealing a lavender colored lingerie set with stockings. Zach's jaw drops and he's left speechless.

Cat got your tongue?

That is the sexiest thing I have ever seen... speaking of my tongue, it's all yours.

Rebecca giggles mischievously.

I can think of a couple places for it.

Zach picks her up and throws her onto the bed.

Let's not waste any more time then.

They enthusiastically "celebrate" their union until Zach falls back on the mattress with Rebecca still on top of him.

That was one hell of a start to married life.

Rebecca giggles and gives him a peck on the lips.

You can say that again. I'm so relieved that my parents are staying next door with your mom, there's no way I could have been quiet during that.

I think there's a chance that they still heard you.

What can I say? You were hitting the spot just right.

I aim to please.

You always do. And I'm not talking about just "the bedroom", you always make sure that I'm happy... put me first.

That's what you do for the person you love most, you do the same for me.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that I appreciate everything you do, even the little things.

You don't ever have to thank me for that, seeing you happy is its own reward.

She kisses him again.

I love you. I can't believe that I have a husband now.

I'm going to have to get used to that too. I wonder if people at your new school and hospital are going to recognize you.

Why would they recognize me?

I did propose to you on national television when millions of people were watching, I'm sure that some people here in Vegas will recognize you.

I didn't even think of that... whatever, let them be jealous.

That's not what I meant, but I like it.

Rebecca yawns.

I'm tired, goodnight.

You do realize that you're still on top of me, right?

I do, I'm comfortable.

I'll allow it, goodnight.

The next morning they go downstairs to find their parents, Lisa and Elle having breakfast in the backyard.

Good morning everybody!

Good morning, do you feel any different now that it's official?

Rebecca sits down on Zach's lap.

A bit, I'm still processing it if I'm honest.

Ryan pours them a cup of coffee.

You're daily dynamic remains mostly the same, it's mostly just a title change.

After they finish their breakfast, they all start clearing up some leftover stuff from yesterday's party.

Halfway through they decide to take a break, Zach hands Lisa a bottle of water.

Should we hang on to this stuff for when you and Elle...?

Lisa is caught completely off guard while she's drinking. She starts coughing and water squirts out of her nose, Zach bursts out laughing and he falls down on the grass.

You can't just spring that on me you asshole!

Elle does her best to hold herself back but ends up laughing too.

It was kinda funny.

Great... now you're both conspiring against me.

Don't be like that, it's not that serious.

I know, I panicked and my walls came back up as a reflex.

Rebecca returns from the kitchen.

Why are you on the ground?

Zach gets back up and whipes the tears from his eyes.

I asked Lisa when they were getting married just as she was drinking and water squirted out of her nose like a fountain.

Can't believe I missed it!

Lisa shakes her head.

You used to be such a nice girl. Zach has been rubbing off on you, and not in a good way. Totally corrupted.

Relax, we'll get off your case. How did it go with your parents?

Really well, they loved Elle.

Elle smiles and hugs Lisa.

We're going to explore Vegas with them while they're here.

Thanks again for bringing them over, it's nice to spend time with them again after being away from them for so long.

You're welcome. What about your parents Elle?

We're going to visit them next week. First we go pick up my grandma, after that we drive down to San Diego.

Lisa raises her hands above her head.

Road trip!

At the end of the weekend everybody heads back home. As they're saying their goodbyes, Zach gives Lisa a big hug and leans in next to her ear.

If you ever need anything at all, just call me. Doesn't matte what you need, I'll always have time for you.

I know. I'm going to miss having you around everyday though.

You'll be fine without me. Besides, you have Elle.

True, it's just not the same. I'm going to call you... a lot!

That's fine, have fun in San Diego.