Chapter 43
The next morning, I was awakened by singing in the hallway. I rolled over and noticed that Nick was not there. Feeling worried, I got up and put my robe on and walked to the door. I listened carefully to the singing, soon realizing it was the guys. I could hear Nick's voice as he softly sang the verse. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to open the door or not, so I waited a few minutes. Soon I heard a lot of whispering and then a soft countdown. I stayed quiet as I heard Nick say,
"Okay, 1, 2, 3."
The hallway filled with a joyous sound, as the guys sang my favorite song in the entire world. I was so touched that I flung the door open and stood there with tears running down my face. (I told you that I was sentimental).
"Once in a lifetime, you find that someone else, who knows you better than you even know yourself. You're that connection, that makes my heart complete. You keep my soul in balance, you are my harmony." the guys sang.
Then Nick sang the chorus softly, "I say the grace, you say Amen. We are each others complements. This is a perfect love we share, you're the answer to my prayers."
Then he handed me a bouquet of soft pink roses. I couldn't hold the tears back. It was the most amazing thing I had ever heard. Not only had Nick and the guys sung the most beautiful song in the world, but they made me feel so special.
"My dear, you are cordially invited to a scrumptous meal with us. There are a few more surprises, so, go and get dressed, and then we will go." Nick instructed me with a smile.
I went back in the room and looked through the few items in my bag, trying my best to find something nice to wear. "Damnit, I give up. There is nothing in here that I can wear that will look nice." I muttered to myself.
I was startled as I felt Nick's gentle arms wrap around my waist. A soft kiss on my neck sent shivers down my spine as I heard, "Heather, put this on."
I turned and saw him holding a soft silk dress in forest green. It was just the right thing for me. The dress was very simple, but it had that elegance that suited the occassion. I looked at it with awe. It had very small beads sewn around the collar and a soft bow that tied loosely in the back.
"I had this made especially for you, my dear. I think you will look simply elegant in it." Nick whispered.
I was puzzled at his gift and then went to get changed. I had no idea what was about to happen. All I knew was that I was going to breakfast with the guys.
After a short time, I was ready to go. I walked with Nick down to the hotel restaurant. As we approached, I figured that this breakfast was more than I had expected.
"We are here for the Carter party, sir. This is our honored guest." Nick said with authority.
"Ah, yes sir. Right this way. Madam, may I say that you look absolutely beautiful this morning." the host said politely.
"Thank you, sir." I said, blushing uncontrollably.
We were quickly escorted to a room off to the side of the restaurant. As we approached, I could hear soft music playing the background. Nick then took me by the hand and walked me in. I heard applause and cheering as we enetered. As I looked around, I saw all my friends and family gathered together. I was completely stunned. I could only stand there, tears pouring down my face for the second time that morning.
"What is all this for?" I said softly.
"You were never given a proper engagement party, so, we thought that you and Nick could be treated to one as such." Dee spoke up.
I walked over and thanked Dee and hugged her. "You are the best friend anyone could ever have. Thank you." I said with a smile.
"Can't I give the bride-to-be a kiss YET???" AJ yelled out impatiently.
I burst out laughing as everyone stared at AJ. "My kind sir, you need to ask politely, and maybe I will let you give me a kiss."
"Ms. Truesdale, my I please give you a kiss for good luck." AJ said with the cutest little puppy eyes.
"Now AJ, you give her a kiss...and NOTHING more! I see you try anything and you will live to regret it!" Nick said laughing.
AJ proudly walked over to me, as everyone laughed with Nick. I just watched him as he strutted around, so proud that he finally got his little wish. I couldn't help but turn bright red as he approached me and grabbed my hands. I looked at AJ and tried not to laugh. He was being so serious, yet, with a little kid type of innocense.
"Heather, you look lovely today. I must say to everyone, that if Nick doesn't treat you right, then there are at least four other men in this room that will gladly kick his ass for you." AJ said, in his usual bluntness.
The next thing I knew, AJ wrapped his arms around me and then threw me into a gentle dip. I felt a gentle kiss on the forehead and then a sweet one on the cheek. I was shocked at how sweet AJ was to me as he escorted me back to Nick.
"Now Nick, it's your turn to kiss her." AJ pronounced to everyone. Nick was completely shocked, but took advantage of the situation.
Nick took me by the hands and said, "Heather Lynne, I love you with all my heart, and I am so happy that you are going to be my wife. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me and I don't know how I would go on without you in my life. I love you." He then leaned in to give me as very passionate kiss. The room filled with applause and cheering.
Then Dee stood up and made a little toast to us. "Heather and Nick, you are the best friends in the world that anyone could have. You are a beautiful couple and I wish you the very best in your new life together." she said and then everyone took sips of their juice. "Now, I have a very special surprise for you Heather. I have finished all your bridesmaid dresses and your bridal gown. However, I can only show everyone here your bridesmaids gowns. Sorry Nick, but you can't see her dress until your wedding day." Dee said with a smile.
At that moment, Lucy walked out from a room off to the side. She was dressed in a green gown made of satin and lace. Lucy looked just like a princess in the dress.
"Oh Dee, that is just gorgeous. That is just what I always wanted. It has everything special that I wished for. It is Nick's favorite color, it looks like a princess's dress, and it fits my Christmas theme. You are AMAZING!"
Dee smiled and then everyone clapped. She then revealed the men's tuxedo's. She had designed a very modern look to them. Even though it was a fairytale type of wedding, she thought that the classic tuxedo wasn't going to do it. The guys were to be dressed in a tux that had tails, with a matching green vest. The typical bowtie was replaced with a green cornered tie. I just knew that Nick was going to look like my prince in that design.
Everyone clapped again. The party then proceeded with our meal and conversations. Brian and Kevin had introduced me to their parents and family first. Nick walked around and greeted everyone. I then spent a few minutes hugging my friends and telling them about the baby. Everyone was so intrigued and interested in it all. I couldn't help but giggle at all the commotion. After a short time, Nick walked over and wrapped his arms around me.
"I think we need to get going hon. We have a full day planned for us. First of all, Dee told me that you were worried about clothing. So, we need to go shopping. BUT, this time, we are NOT taking Howie or AJ. They will have you all decked out in funky maternity wear." Nick said as he laughed.
"Thank God, I don't think I could do another shopping spree with the guys. The last time I did, I thought I was going to pass out!"
Nick and I thanked everyone for the wonderful breakfast and the wonderful party. We said our goodbyes, promising to see everyone in a couple of weeks, and then made our way back to the room to change.
I changed into some sweats and comfortable shoes and then we went out for a day on the town.