Chapter 9

CODY’S STORY

“Well, baby, your day is just starting.” Mary Beth smiled before kissing me softly.

She was killing me. If I let myself hope and dream, I would dare to think what promise her words held. I wanted her so much. I loved her so much. I needed her so much. I felt like I was going to explode.

I dressed quickly for the day, making sure to wear my new hat and scarf. I couldn’t believe she had made them for me…for me! I really did think it was one of the nicest gifts I’d ever received. I could only imagine how much time it had taken. I did let myself imagine her agonizing over it. Knowing my Mary Beth she stood in the store staring at yarn or whatever the heck you knitted things with, distressing over what color would best match my eyes. To think that she had begun making it before we’d even met, with just the dream of us in her mind, just further went to show me how meant to be we really were. This moment, this day, had been a long time coming. It was one I’d prayed about for a lot of years and now my prayers were answered.

Once everyone was dressed and ready for the day I began to load our bags in the car. I tossed Tommy’s suitcase into the hatch with a huge smile on my face. Don’t get me wrong, I was going to miss the little guy, but two nights completely alone with Mary Beth had me all kinds of excited inside. I highly doubted we’d leave the house tomorrow if I had anything to say about it.

Tommy was bouncing excitedly in his seat. He was anxious for us to try out the video games he’d given me for my birthday. To be honest, so was I. To me, the fact that he’d chosen them for me meant he wanted me around that much longer. The fact that Mary Beth had let him buy them for me meant she expected me to be around that much longer. There was nowhere else I intended to be.

Tommy had moved on to chattering about spending the night with Alan. I thought it was great that he and Alan were so close, especially since Tommy was an only child. I mentioned this to Mary Beth.

“Yes, I know. That was part of the reason I was so close to Karen and Chris when we were growing up. They were the closest things to siblings I had. I don’t want Tommy to ever feel like he’s alone, even though he’s an only child.” She explained.

“Someday, Mary Beth…” I began, unable to finish.

She just looked at me with a raised eyebrow and smiled softly. She reached over and squeezed my hand as we pulled into the parking lot. She didn’t expect me to say any more. She just understood what my heart was trying to say.

We parked next to David’s truck and I moved Tommy’s bags over to it before we headed for the lodge. Tommy and Alan chatted excitedly about all their plans as we took them to snowboarding school. Mary Beth made sure they knew Karen would be picking Tommy up today and then bringing him the next two days. With that we hugged Tommy goodbye and told him to have fun until we saw him Saturday.

We made plans to meet Karen and David for lunch later in the morning before we headed up the mountain. Again I cherished the rides on the ski lift. The peacefulness seemed to lend itself to great conversation and the mountain air seemed to allow us to be even more open with each other. I almost never wanted to leave this place. I wished we could stay here forever.

We again stopped at our picnic table at the top of the mountain. I sat down and Mary Beth took a seat next to me. I had something that had been running through my mind for days and I finally felt the moment was right to present it to Mary Beth.

“Love?” I began.

“Yes, Cody?” She asked, turning into me to focus on whatever I was about to share.

“I’ve been thinking about the movie,” I said slowly.

“Ok. Did you have some ideas?” she asked.

“Well, more like a request. I’ve decided there’s only one way I’m going to be willing to play Travis,” I said firmly, waiting for her reaction.

“What?” she said worriedly, turning fully towards me.

“The only way I’m going to play Travis is if you play the role of Mattie,” I said hopefully.

“Cody, are you kidding me?” She said incredulously.

“No, love, I’m not kidding you. I’m 100 per cent serious.” I responded, trying to gauge her reaction to this.

I knew I was going way out on a limb asking this of her. I knew this could blow her concealed identity out of the water if we didn’t play it just right. I just felt like this was the way it was meant to be though. I felt like she was supposed to play this role.

“Wow! That’s huge Cody,” she said quietly.

“I know.” I responded.

“I just…” she began before taking a deep breath, looking down at her hands. “Do you think it would work? The only acting I’ve ever done was in high school and college and that’s been a few years. Do you think I could do it?”

If she was asking me this she was considering it. I just needed to encourage her. God give me the right words for this.

“Of course I think you could do it. If I’m meant to play Travis then you are meant to play Mattie. I just know it. You wait and see, when you meet Rob he will tell you the same thing. I just don’t think I can do it with anyone else playing the part, Mary Beth,” I said honestly.

“Ok,” she said in a small voice, looking down at her boots. She took another deep breath and looked me in the eye. “Ok!” she said more confidently.

I beamed with happiness and pride. Happy birthday to Cody! I was so excited I could hardly contain myself.

“Happy birthday, baby!” Mary Beth giggled as she leaned over and pressed a soft kiss to my lips.

“I love you, Mary Beth,” I sighed, so completely happy.

“I love you too, Cody,” she smiled, reaching up to caress my cheek, running her thumbs over my cheekbones.

I swallowed hard as I took in her smile, realizing this was the perfect moment for something I had thought about, dreamed about, prayed about and somehow planned since the beginning. I slipped from Mary Beth’s embrace, taking hold of her hands as I smiled down at her nervously. I released one of her hands and reached into my pocket, taking out the antique ring box I had placed there every day since I had arrived in Texas.

My eyes stayed on Mary Beth’s shocked ones as I slipped the ring on her left hand. I cleared my throat as I spoke my words of promise to her as I held tight to her hands.

“I, Cody, take you, Mary Elizabeth, to be my wife. And before God and with His blessing I promise to be a faithful and true husband to you. I will love you, comfort and keep you, and will forsake all others, remaining true to you for as long as we both shall live.” I dipped my head down, pressing a tender kiss to the back of her hand before finding her eyes once more. “Mary Elizabeth, I give you this ring, to wear with love and joy. I choose you to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish as long as we both shall live.”

Tears of what I hoped were pure happiness streamed down Mary Beth’s cheeks as I struggled to choke back my own tears. My heart felt like it was about to burst out of my chest as she smiled radiantly up at me, turning her hands and taking my large hands in hers. Her voice sounded like an angel’s as she began to speak.

“I, Mary Elizabeth, take you, Cody, to be my husband. And before God and with His blessing, I promise to be a faithful and true wife to you. I will love you, comfort and keep you, and will forsake all others, remaining true to you for as long as we both shall live.” She dipped her head down, mimicking my movements by pressing a tender kiss to the back of my hand before finding my eyes once more. “Cody, I choose you to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish for as long as we both shall live.”

I couldn’t hold back my emotions for one more moment. Tears of pure love and joy fell from my eyes as I wrapped my arms tight around my bride, pulling her close to my body and pressing my lips fully to hers. I could feel the moisture of our tears mix together on my cheeks, as much as I could feel the race of her heart against mine. We were one now, at least in the eyes of God, and that was what truly mattered. He had led me to this beautiful creature and given her to me to be mine forevermore.

I pulled back slightly, taking in Mary Beth’s both stunned and overwhelmingly happy expression. I reached one hand up and tenderly brushed away the tears as I returned her smile.

“Did that really just happen?” she asked, her voice just above a whisper, as if she was afraid it was just a dream.

“It did!” I said excitedly, holding her close, dipping my head once more for a quick kiss. “I just felt led that it was time for us to make that commitment to each other,” I said honestly and a bit nervously. “I know we’ll have to make it legal sometime soon, but in the eyes of the One who gave you to me, and in my heart, you are my wife now.”

She smiled so brilliantly that I thought my heart would explode as she pulled her left hand back, looking at it wondrously. “It was the right time. I know that with all my heart. And with all my heart, I am yours now, forever.” She held up her hand questioningly. “But where did this come from?” she said with a soft giggle that I had come to know and love.

“It was my grandmother’s. I brought it with me when I came here,” I said with a soft blush on my cheeks. “I just knew in my heart that I would need it.”

I watched a hot blush spread over her cheeks as she looked up at me. We both burst into excited laughter as we held each other close.

“Now what?” I asked, bursting with excitement and energy.

“Now I guess we have to get you a ring,” she said, still smiling up at me.

“No, silly girl, what do you want to do now? Which run?” I chuckled.

She took the trail map from my hands and began to study it. She seemed to be having an internal debate of some sort. I let her sort through whatever she was thinking and again she looked me in the eye with confidence.

“I’d like to try this run,” she said, pointing it out to me.

“Mary Beth,” I began, “I’m not sure. Are you sure this is what you want to do?”

She had pointed at a black diamond trail, an advanced run. She had come a long way this week, but I hated to think about anything happening to her. I knew she had the basic knowledge down to accomplish this, but I was still worried and protective.

“Yes, Cody. I think I’m ready. I want to show you how much you’ve taught me.” She smiled.

“Love, you don’t have to prove anything to me.” I reassured her.

“I know. I need to prove something to myself though,” she said softly.

I nodded my acceptance. I got the feeling Mary Beth was breaking through all kinds of barriers today. There would be a time to talk about it, the what’s and the why’s, but I felt like now I just need to support her however I could. I know right now what I needed to do was coach her and guide her safely down the challenging run ahead of us.

“Are you sure you’re ready?” I asked one more time as we stood at the top of the hill.

“Yes,” she said quietly but confidently.

“I love you,” I said strongly, reaching over to grab her hands.

“I love you too.” She smiled.

“Let’s do it.” I grinned.

She nodded and I began to take her down the run. She listened carefully to what I was telling her to do and then directed her body to follow my instructions. I cheered and encouraged her with all my heart. I was so proud of my wife. My wife! She really was the strongest and bravest woman I’d ever known. Fearless. That’s what she was, fearless.

She was so focused. I could see it in her face. Before we knew it we were nearing the bottom of the mountain. She realized this and a huge grin spread across her face.

“That’s right, beautiful. You’re doing great!” I yelled.

That just made her smile bigger. I felt like my heart was going to leap out of my chest I was so proud. When we reached the bottom of the mountain we kicked off our boards. She ran to me and jumped into my arms. I scooped her up and twirled her around.

“I did it!” she said excitedly, wrapping her legs around my waist.

“You sure did, honey! I knew you could. And it was a beautiful thing. I’m so proud of you,” I said, raining kisses over her face.

“My husband is a great teacher.” She blushed as she slid down my body, wrapping her arms around my waist.

Hmmm, I wonder where the blush came from? I was lost in that thought when I heard someone calling to us.

“Hey you two, get a room!” I recognized David’s chuckling voice.

I couldn’t stop myself from laughing along with him as I pulled back from Mary Beth ever so slightly. Yup, the blush was still there as she grinned up at me.

“Hey guys!” I smiled, greeting David and Karen.

“Happy birthday, Cody!” Karen said. “Has it been a good one so far?”

“Thank you! And yes, so far it’s been my best birthday ever. How could it not be? I’m spending it with my Mary Beth.” I grinned, wrapping my arm around her shoulder as we walked inside for lunch.

All week we had been eating in the cafeteria. Today, however, in honor of my birthday we were dining in the lodge’s table service restaurant. Mary Beth had really gone all out to make my birthday a special occasion. I felt spoiled…and loved.

“That’s a nice scarf, Cody,” Karen commented.

“Mary Beth made it for me for my birthday,” I said proudly.

“She did? Wow. It’s been a long time since she knitted anything. It’s really nice,” she said again.

“It’s really nice of you guys to keep Tommy for a few days,” I said.

“It’s our pleasure. I know you guys could use some time for just the two of you,” Karen said kindly.

We continued our lunch, me devouring a chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes. The conversation flowed at the table, as did the laughter. Karen had lots of stories to tell about her and Mary Beth’s escapades as youngsters. There were four other cousins the same age as the two of them and the six of them had done quite a lot together when they were growing up. It was interesting to hear the stories and see the dynamics of that group. Mary Beth had been the peacemaker and the baby of the group. She had been close to each of the other five. It seemed the group was only able to get along when she was present. That was my Mary Beth, holding everything together for others.

I couldn’t help but notice that Karen’s eyes kept going to Mary Beth’s ring finger and my grandmother’s ring that now resided there. But to her credit she said nothing. I appreciate that greatly, as I knew, for now, we wanted this news to remain between us and our Maker.

Before I knew what was happening, everyone in the restaurant was singing happy birthday to me. Our waiter brought out a chocolate layer cake decorated for my birthday complete with candles. When in the world had she done this, I wondered? I just grinned over at her before I closed my eyes and blew out the candle.

I knew what I wished for. Would my birthday wish come true?

MARY ELIZABETH’S STORY

As I watched Cody blow out the candles on his cake I wondered what he had wished for. As he looked up and winked at me I hoped against all hope it was exactly what I was planning to give him for his birthday later tonight. His birthday….his birthday that had now turned into our wedding night. I blushed at the thought as I looked down at my hand. Honestly I didn’t know it was possible to be this happy.

We devoured the cake. It was delicious but I couldn’t help but think and hope that Cody would love the cake I had made for him for tonight even more. I hoped so anyway. I wanted tonight to be perfect. I wanted Cody to have the most amazing and perfect birthday ever. He deserved it. After all, he had given me the most perfect day of my life today.

We said goodbye to Karen and David, making plans to meet with them for lunch on Saturday. I wasn’t at all worried about Tommy. He loved spending time with them and they loved and cared for him as their own. I was looking forward to having Cody all to myself.

We headed back up the mountain. I wanted to try my hand at another black run or two before the day was over. Hopefully Cody would indulge me. I knew it took a lot for him to let me try my hand at a black earlier today. I knew it was just his protective nature and the fact that he had supported and encouraged me all the way meant so much.

“Want to try another, love?” Cody asked with a grin, playfully wiggling his eyebrows.

This was my plan when I pulled on these snowboarding clothes Sunday morning. I was going to show him that I could keep up with him. Once he saw it he would realize just how much fun we could have here. Now if I could just convince him to teach me some tricks.

“One thing at a time,” he said with a chuckle.

“What?” I asked in shock.

“I know you were trying to think of a way to talk me into teaching you tricks. Let’s get you riding the tough runs with confidence first. Then maybe we’ll talk about tricks.” He grinned.

I just nodded in stunned silence. I had no idea how he had known that. I just knew he knew me so well already that it both freaked me out and sat every conceivable part and inch of my body on fire at the same time.

“Ok, husband. You’re the teacher. I’m the student. You lead. I’ll follow.” I grinned.

“Then let’s do it!” He chuckled, taking off and watching as I followed him to the edge and over it, down the mountain.

Two more runs and we decided to call it an early day. I had big plans for the rest of the day. I couldn’t wait for each and every surprise that I had planned for Cody. I was spoiling him and I loved doing it.

We had just climbed into the Suburban and Cody had just started the engine when his cell phone rang. I looked at him curiously.

“It’s Jake.” He laughed as he flipped the phone open to answer it.

I watched as he pressed the speaker button before answering, so I could hear what Jake had to say.

“Hey man!” Cody said excitedly.

“Hey there brother!” Jake laughed. “Happy birthday!”

“Thanks!”

“Are you doing anything special for your birthday?” Jake asked.

“I’m having the best day of my life! I just spent the morning snowboarding with my beautiful lady. I don’t know what surprises she has in store for the rest of the day, but I’m sure they’ll be special.” Cody grinned and winked at me.

“Lady? What lady? Why haven’t I heard about this?” Jake asked.

Cody looked over at me and I nodded at him that it was ok.

“Her name is Mary Matthews,” Cody explained. “Depending on what you think about the movie you’ll probably get to meet her sooner rather than later, but for now, say hi Mary.” Cody prompted me.

“Hi, Jake! Nice to talk to you!” I said excitedly.

“Hello to you too, Mary. I’ll look forward to meeting you soon. Cody, I finished reading the book late last night.” Jake replied.

I realized suddenly I was holding my breath. This was a huge moment and I knew it.

“And?” Cody asked.

“I feel like I should be the one begging you to let me be a part of this project in any way you’d let me. I’m honored that you’d want to trust me with this as my directorial debut,” he said excitedly.

I took a deep breath and smiled over at Cody.

“So you liked it?” Cody asked.

“No, I freaking loved it. You’re right. You’re perfect for the part of Travis. Now where do we go from here?” he asked.

Cody looked over at me and, once more, I simply nodded at him in approval.

“What’s on your schedule next week?” Cody asked.

“It’s pretty clear. Why?” Jake asked quizzically.

“Can you come to Texas? We can sit down and really talk things through,” Cody asked.

“Texas? Sure I guess so,” Jake conceded.

“Great! I’ll send you the specifics!” Cody said excitedly.

“Sounds great, bro! Enjoy the rest of your birthday and I guess I’ll see you next week!” Jake laughed before hanging up.

“This day just keeps getting better and better!” Cody said, bouncing up and down excitedly in his seat, grinning like a kid on Christmas morning.

“And the day is only half over.” I winked before turning ten shades of red.

With that Cody put the truck in gear and started our drive towards the cabin. He wrapped his hand around mine, lifting it occasionally to his lips to press a kiss to it. I sang along with the music playing from my iPod, content in a way I’d never been before in my life. I felt comfortable in my own skin and comfortable where I was in my life and completely at home with the man sitting next to me.

He pulled the Suburban into the garage and bounded out and around to open my door. I hopped down and immediately threw my arms around his neck and pulled him tight against me. I tilted my head up and pressed my lips to his, moving them against his, trying desperately to get closer. By the time we broke apart gasping for breath I had my fingers threaded through his hair and his hands were edging under the hem of my jacket and shirt.

“Happy birthday, husband,” I said breathlessly.

“It certainly is, wife.” He chuckled, his deep voice rumbling from his chest, taking my hand and leading me into the house.

“Now, Mr, McAllister,” I began as I removed my jacket and hung it in the mudroom before kicking off my boots and stowing them in their waiting basket. “Here’s what I’d like you to do for me. I think you deserve a bit of pampering, so I want to give you a massage today, if that’s ok?”

His eyes widened, but he simply nodded and swallowed hard.

“Good. I’ll get our bed ready for you lie down on. I left a sheet for you in the bathroom this morning to wrap up in, if that’s ok?” I directed.

Again he nodded in stunned silence. I prepared the bed while he changed in the bathroom. When he stepped out of the bathroom with just a sheet wrapped around his waist my breath caught in my throat. My stars, he was beautiful. It was as if Michelangelo’s David had come to life and stepped into my presence.

He lay down on his stomach and I took a deep breath before moving to him. Could I really do this? I took another deep breath and straddled his back so each knee was on either side of him and I was basically sitting on him, seated right on his rock hard ass. Come on, Mary Beth, focus. This is supposed to be about taking care of Cody and relaxing him, not you ogling his body.

I felt Cody’s ragged breath beneath me and pressed my hand flat against his back.

“Baby, are you ok?” I asked in concern.

“Mmm, yes,” he groaned.

I smiled, realizing what effect I was having on him. I squirted some of the massage lotion into my hand and began to run my hands over his shoulders, softly at first and then more firmly, working out all the knots and tension. Every once in a while Cody would moan or sigh. I took that as a good sign. I worked my way up his strong neck and then down his spine, taking in each and every line of muscle as I went.

I moved off Cody and began to work my way down his legs. My stars, his legs. They were like steel, rippled with strength. I knew they were tired through from the last four days of snowboarding so I took extra care with them and his feet. I leaned down and pressed a kiss to the sole of each of his feet, eliciting a loud moan from Cody. I grinned as I moved back up his body and leaned down until my lips were next to his ear.

“Turn over for me, baby,” I whispered before pressing my lips to his ear.

“Ummmmhmmmm,” was all Cody could say.

I held the sheet to keep him covered as he turned over, exposing this gloriously chiseled chest to me. I gasped at the sight, which caused Cody to pop open his eyes and grin when he realized what I was gasping at. When he saw me blush he promptly closed his eyes again, trying to give me some semblance of comfort I suppose, despite the cheeky smile on his face.

I moved down and began my work where I had left off, at his feet. I pressed a kiss to the top of each foot before moving up his legs, caressing each and every muscle I found. I gulped as I moved over the sheet covered portion of his body when what I really wanted to do was rip the sheet from him and have my way with him.

Gently I feathered my touch over his stomach, tracing every line I found. Such strength and such beauty I thought. I ghosted my touch over his chest before moving to his arms, massaging all the tension from each of them, paying close attention to his strong yet caring hands.

I moved to sit next to Cody as I began to massage his temples. Again I felt him sigh a blissful sigh. I smiled, hoping I was close to achieving my goal for him this afternoon. I moved my finger across his forehead, smoothing the skin there before moving into the beautiful silky light brown hair on his head. I ever so gently and softly began to massage his scalp and exactly as I had hoped within minutes Cody’s breath evened out in sleep.

I leaned down and pressed a feather soft kiss to his forehead. I gently got up from the bed and pulled a blanket over Cody. As I left the room I turned off the light, leaving him in peaceful darkness. He’d need his rest I thought with a mischievous grin.

I headed to the kitchen to put the finishing touches on Cody’s cake. I began to work on his birthday dinner, doing as much as I could ahead of time. I headed up to Tommy’s bathroom and took a leisurely shower, preparing myself for the night ahead. I wanted everything to be perfect for Cody, for us. I dressed in a flowing sapphire blue dress, something I had chosen with Cody in mind. Once I was satisfied with my appearance I went to prepare the next part of Cody’s day.

When I quietly entered our bedroom, Cody was just beginning to stir a bit. I softly walked across the room and into the bathroom. I lit candles around the room, giving it a soft glow, as I ran a steaming hot bubble bath in the oversized tub. Once the tub was full, I turned off the water and went to wake Cody.

He was already beginning to sit up and rub the sleep from his eyes. He smiled when he saw me. He smiled even bigger when he took in what I was wearing. I crossed the room and sat on the bed next to him.

“I’m sorry I fell asleep,” he said sheepishly.

“I wanted you to,” I admitted. “I thought you needed a nap. I thought you deserved one.”

“Thank you,” he said softly, leaning forward to press a soft kiss to my lips, “for everything.”

“You’re welcome, but I’m far from finished.” I grinned.

“Do tell, beautiful wife of mine.” He smiled.

“There’s a bubble bath waiting for you in our bathroom. By the time you’re finished your birthday dinner will be ready. Would you come join me?” I explained.

“Of course. Thank you.” He grinned. “You look stunning, by the way,” he said breathlessly.

“Thank you.” I blushed before turning to go to the kitchen. “Enjoy your bath!”

I shut the door and leaned back against it, trying to collect myself. At this rate I’d never make it through dinner, much less anything else. I felt like I was on fire and about to explode. The thought of Cody naked and in a tub full of bubbles wasn’t helping.

CODY’S STORY

I swear Mary Beth was trying to kill me. Earlier when she was straddling me, massaging my back, it was all I could do to not flip her over and take her right there. I had to take this at her pace though. I knew that. At the same time, each day…heck, every moment of each day, I could see Mary Beth letting her guard down, pushing aside her walls and her boundaries and really living. She had this vibrancy that was taking her over and it radiated from her. I was so ridiculously proud of her I could hardly stand it. How the world I got so lucky to have her as my own I had no idea, but I’d spend the rest of my days thanking God for it.

I stood up from the bed and stretched. Every muscle I had was so relaxed now…well, except maybe one, but I couldn’t really do anything about that right now. I walked to the bathroom and took in the sight before me. Candlelight, relaxing music and a bubble bath. Perfection…the only thing that would make it more perfect would be if Mary Beth were here with me. I slid down until the water was at my chin and closed my eyes.

I heard the bedroom door open and wondered what Mary Beth was up to now. I listened and heard her footsteps slowly get closer.

“Cody, are you in the tub?” she called.

“Uh-huh,” was all I could manage.

“I brought you something to drink.” She smiled as she walked through the door.

A tall glass of sweet tea. She brought me sweet tea to drink in my bubble bath.

“You’re perfect,” I whispered as she handed it to me.

“Hardly,” she sighed, turning to go.

“You’re perfect for me,” I said quietly.

“Unquestionably.” She smiled with a wink and then she was gone.

I sat there and thought about the last few weeks and how much my life had changed. In reality it had changed the moment Jennifer handed me the book. Meeting Mary Beth just made everything click into place, everything fit together. When I said this was the best birthday I’d ever had I meant it. I didn’t need big expensive gifts; I was more about the little things. Mary Beth had been showering me with little things since we met, but today she had made them even more special. Today she had made a promise to be mine forever. I felt like a king.

I couldn’t wipe the stupid ass grin off my face as I stepped out the tub and dried off. Mary Beth looked so beautiful earlier that I wanted to dress to match her. I pulled out a pair of slacks and a dark blue button down shirt. I had noticed earlier that she was in fact barefoot so I decided to forgo the shoes myself. I ran my hands through my damp hair and stepped out of the bathroom.

The second I opened our bedroom door I was hit with the most amazing aromas. My birthday dinner! My birthday dinner that was now our wedding dinner! I couldn’t wait to see what she had come up with tonight. I rounded the corner to the kitchen to find Mary Beth standing at the stove. She had her iPod playing and was singing and swaying along with the music. I moved quietly until I was right behind her and slid my arms around her waist, causing her to jump a bit.

“Cody!” she exclaimed before she relaxed into my arms.

“I didn’t meant to scare you, love,” I chuckled.

“It’s ok. How was your bath?” She smiled, turning her head and kissing me softly.

“Lonely,” I said, leaving it at that.

She raised her eyebrow at me but decided to leave it alone for now. She gestured for me to sit down at the table. Once I did she poured us each a glass of tea and walked towards me. I pushed away from the table a bit and patted my knee. She grinned as she took a seat in my lap, handing me my glass.

“It’s almost ready. Are you hungry?” she asked, smiling when my stomach grumbled loudly.

“I guess that answers that!” I laughed, watching her stand and start fixing our plates.

Moments later I had a feast laid before me. The most glorious steak sat before me, stuffed with the most delicious cheesy jalapeno and bacon concoction I’d ever tasted. Flanking it were oven roasted potatoes and homemade rolls. A fantastic looking Caesar salad sat in a bowl next to my plate. I grinned and looked over at Mary Beth who was watching me expectantly as I took a bite of each dish.

“Good gravy, woman, this is to die for!” I exclaimed, savoring each bite.

She blushed deeply. “I’m glad you like it,” she said quietly.

I devoured each and every bite, wishing I had a bigger stomach so I could eat even more. But, knowing Mary Beth, there was still dessert to come. I’d already had a birthday cake at lunch so I wasn’t expecting her to have another one for me. That will teach me to assume things about my bride.

Mary Beth rose and opened a cabinet, pulling out a cake plate. She lit the candles on top and sat the cake in front of me. It was a tall layer cake edged in chocolate icing with “Happy birthday Cody” across the top. Again I closed my eyes, made my wish, and blew out the candles. The wish was the same as this afternoon and hopefully it would still come true tonight.

Mary Beth sliced a thick piece of cake and placed it before me. I looked up at her and smiled. I thought a moment and glanced at the refrigerator. As if she knew what I wanted she rose and poured a glass of milk for me, setting it beside my cake.

“Thank you, love.” I smiled, leaning over to kiss her gently, squeezing her hand with mine.

“You’re welcome.” She grinned, watching as I took a bite of the cake. “Do you like it?”

“I’d be lying if I said this isn’t the best cake I’ve ever had in my life. What is it and where did it come from?” I asked before taking another bite.

“Italian cream cake. I made it this morning and finished it while you were napping. I’m glad you like it.” She smiled, standing and beginning to clean up the kitchen.

“Can I have another piece? And why don’t you leave the kitchen until tomorrow?” I asked.

“Yes and ok.” She laughed. “While you’re finishing your cake do you mind if I go finish getting your last birthday gift ready?”

“Sure,” I said, getting up to pour myself another glass of milk for my cake.

“Just don’t come into the bedroom until I call you, ok?” she said mysteriously.

“Yes, ma’am, Mrs. McAllister!” I grinned, saluting before I stabbed another piece of cake on my fork.

I took my time eating my cake. She hadn’t yet called me when I finished, so I busied myself with tidying up the kitchen a bit. I didn’t want her to feel like she had to do it all. I had just put away the rest of the cake when I heard her call to me.

“Cody, can you come join me?” she called from our bedroom.

I took a deep breath and walked across the living room to the bedroom door. It was ajar, so I pushed it gently open. I gasped at what I saw. Mary Beth had built a fire in the fireplace. On the floor in front of it she had spread a blanket. All around the room were candles with their flickering lights joining that of the fire. Music played softly in the background. While all that was amazing and beautiful it was not what had drawn the gasp from my body. That was all Mary Beth.

She stood in front of the fireplace, but when she heard me enter the room she turned and began to walk towards me.

“Stop!” I commanded.

She looked up at me in confusion. A flash of rejection shot across her face.

“No, love. Stop so I can look at you. I need to look at you,” I groaned.

She smiled softly and stood very still. Three feet away from me was my love, just as I had dreamed and wished for. Standing there in a short little barely there pink ruffled slip that was see through enough to just tease my imagination. It was sheer enough that in the firelight I could see the swell of her breasts as they rose and fell with her heavy breathing.

“Cody, please!” she begged.

In an instant I was next to her, running my hands over the exposed skin of her arms. I needed to touch her. I needed to touch her everywhere, but I needed to make sure.

“Mary Beth, love, are you sure? We don’t have to do this,” I said with concern.

“Cody,” she hissed, reaching up to close her hand over my cheek, “You’re my husband now. I want this. I want this so much. I love you. I need you. I want to give myself to you.”

I felt like I was going to explode into a million pieces. I wrapped my arms around Mary Beth and pulled her roughly against me. I held on to her as if I were clinging to her for my life. I felt like if I let go of her I really would spontaneously combust. I took a deep breath, trying to settle myself and my nerves. Think, Cody. You’ve got to slow this down; you’ve got to be gentle. You’ve got to take it slow.

I felt Mary Beth’s hands begin to move over my back. She was both soothing my nerves and setting them on fire all at the same time. I sucked in a breath when they reached my waist and kept moving lower.

“Mary Beth,” I whispered as I leaned back away from her.

As soon as I created a distance between us her hands moved around to my chest. With my hands still firmly on her waist she ran her hands up my chest and around my neck pulling me down to her.

“Cody, please!” she begged again, as she pressed her lips to mine.

I moaned at the contact and gave in to what I was feeling. I began to move my lips over hers, reaching my tongue out to trace the contours of her lips before reaching further to run it over her teeth, begging for entrance. I felt her smile beneath me as she moved her tongue to caress my own. The contact urged me on and I felt my hands begin to move over the pink ruffles covering her body.

Up and down her back when my hands until I felt bold enough to move them lower to cup her glorious ass. It was bare beneath my hands thanks to the thong she was wearing and I groaned at the contact.

“Mary Beth,” I hissed as I felt her hands move back down my chest.

She pulled her head apart from mine and looked up at me from beneath her lashes. I felt her hands at my waist, pulling my shirt from my pants. Once it was free she ran her hands back to my chest and began working on the buttons on my shirt. I stood as still as possible, giving her free reign over the moment. Once the last button was free she pushed the shirt off my shoulders and down my arms before tossing it aside. I looked down and watched as she ran her hands over my chest, worshipping my body.

“You’re beautiful,” she whispered.

“You make me that way,” I gasped as her hands ghosted over my chest.

Pleased at my reaction she again moved closer and pressed a kiss to my chest over my heart. I threw my head back at the contact, grasping at her body with my hands, urging her closer, urging her on. She rained kisses across my chest with her tongue occasionally snaking out to make a quick taste of my skin.

“Oh, love,” I growled, threading my hands through her hair.

She smiled up at me as her kisses across my chest continued. If she kept this up I wasn’t going to last a minute. What a wedding night that would be! Think, Cody, this is supposed to be all about her. Think.

I reached my hand under her chin and tilted it up to me. I recaptured her lips with my own before leaving a trail of kisses down her neck to her exposed collarbones. I stood back and looked at Mary Beth, holding her eyes with my own.

“I love you,” I whispered.

“I love you too.” She smiled, urging me on.

I reached out my hands and gently cupped her breasts through her gown. She gasped at the contact and I could not help but be pleased. My fingertips teased her skin as I caressed it, longing to learn every inch of her body.

“Cody,” she hissed.

“Mary Beth, may I?” I asked as I hooked a finger under the strap of her gown.

“Please,” she gasped.

I pushed the straps down her arms and the gown fell to the floor around her feet. I felt my breath catch in my throat as I took in the site before me. She was beautiful. I couldn’t stop myself from reaching out to caress her once more, the sensation of her bare skin beneath my fingers sending shockwaves up my arm.

“Please!” she begged, wanting more.

I leaned down and tentatively pressed my lips to her neck, breathing in her fragrant skin. I couldn’t resist having a taste, as my tongue flicked out over her soft skin. I left a trail of kisses through the valley between her breasts as I moved to rain kisses over her stomach, stopping to swirl my tongue over her belly button before I reached the waistband of her thong. I looked up at her for her permission and she nodded through hooded eyes. I hooked my fingers in the waistband and pushed the lacey scrap down her legs, tossing it to the side.

I helped Mary Beth lay on the blanket in front of the fire. I propped up on my elbow as I lay next to her, watching her reactions to what I was doing. I ran my hands over every inch of her body, each movement elicited another gasp from her, the intensity of it causing her to rise up off the blanket.

“Cody, please, more!” she begged.

Every second seemed to be moving her closer and closer to the edge. But I was so scared of hurting her. I wanted to make sure she was as ready as possible for this.

My hands continued their exploration, my eyes locked on hers as she fell apart in my arms. I watched her just give in to the moment. My wife was beautiful. Radiant. My heart felt like it was going to race out of my chest, knowing I gave that to her. That I was the only one to ever give that to her.

“Mmm, Cody. So good,” she sighed, running her shaking hands through my hair.

“You look so beautiful, love, when you come undone. You have no idea.” I smiled, leaning back to caress her cheek.

She blushed beneath me, but apparently still felt bold enough to reach down to the waist of my pants.

“You’re wearing too many clothes, baby!” She smiled, reaching for my zipper.

I quickly reached down and ripped my pants off, tossing them and my underwear to the side. I felt Mary Beth’s hand on my chest, pushing me back away from her. I looked at her in confusion. Had I done something wrong?

“I want to see you.” she explained shyly, realizing what I had thought.

I sat back proudly and watched her eyes move over my body, all of my body. When her eyes drifted lower I watched her suck in a deep breath.

“So beautiful,” she whispered as she reached out a hand to touch me.

I hissed as she moved her hands over my body, pride emanating from every bit of my being.

“So soft to be so hard. You’re like silk and steel,” she whispered as she caressed my body.

“Dear heavens, Mary Beth,” I groaned.

“Does that feel good, Cody? Am I doing it right?” she asked hesitantly.

“Too right. If you keep that up I’m not going to last. Please say I can make you mine now, Mary Beth. Please.” Now I was the one who was begging.

She lay back down on the blanket and reached for me to join her. I reached down and pulled her body tight against mine. I leaned down to kiss her putting every emotion I had into that kiss as I fully claimed her as my own. She gasped and I pulled back to look into her face. It was not pain I saw but pure unadulterated passion.

Soon she was matching each movement I made with her own. I felt her hands clawing at my back, urging me onward. Kisses were being peppered over my chest, speeding up my movements.

“Oh, Cody!” Mary Beth cried as she clung to me.

“It’s ok, love, just let it go,” I said against her lips.

Her words and the sensations of bodies moving together as one sent me flying over the edge.

“Oh Mary Beth,” I growled, my lips hungrily finding hers as we fell apart together for the first time.

Her arms closed around my back, holding me close to her, refusing to let me go. I collapsed on top of her, unable to move for a moment, gasping for breaths, before rolling us so I was now holding Mary Beth on top of me.

“Are you ok?” I asked, running my fingers through Mary Beth’s long, wavy hair.

“I’ve never felt better in my life. I feel so loved, so worshipped, so beautiful,” she whispered.

“Good, because you are all those things. Thank you for the gift you just gave me. For the ultimate gift you gave me in becoming my wife. I love you so much,” I said, pressing a kiss to her lips and holding her tightly.

“I love you too, Cody,” she said sleepily.

I realized while I had taken a nap today my love had been up since the wee hours of the morning, making sure my birthday was a special one. She deserved and needed to rest. We had another day and night alone and I intended to spend it loving my bride. Yeah, she was going to need her rest.

“Just sleep, Mary Beth. I’m right here,” I said, pulling her into my side and covering us with a nearby blanket.

I watched the firelight dance and thought back over the day. I’d never had a birthday where my wish actually came true. I had the feeling this was just the beginning.