We smile and raise our glasses at the guys.
“This is from the four of us,” Keats says, gesturing at Kent, Keven, and Cheryl, as a waiter brings a small two-tier wedding cake to the table. It’s covered in white icing with a pink bow around the base of the top layer. An edible rendering of a man and woman embracing rests on top of it. I hope it tastes as yummy as it looks.
“It’s just a token gift,” Kent explains. “We’ll give you your main present when we get back to the US.” Kent, Keven, and Keats exchange a conspiratorial smile, and I wonder what they are planning.
“Thank you so much.” I hug all of them, and Keanu slaps the guys on the back and kisses Cheryl on the cheek.
“These are from your mom,” Cheryl says, handing me a massive bouquet of blue, pink, and purple flowers.
I bury my nose in the delicate, fragrant scent, inhaling deeply.
“I need to call her,” I say, but Keanu is already handing me his cell. I press my lips to his. “Love you, husband.”
“Love you, wife,” he says, hauling me against his warm body. His hands land on my waist as he lowers his mouth to mine. He deepens the kiss while his brothers and the table of bodyguards whoop, holler, and break out in a round of applause.
We separate eventually, and my husband laughs at my fire-engine-red cheeks. I swat his arm. “Don’t start.”
We call my mom and Denise in between drinking champagne and eating the delicious food they bring out. Then we FaceTime James and Alex and break the news to them. Their obvious delight is clear to see, and I feel Keanu relax beside me. Despite his protests, he was concerned how his mom would react. But Alex is thrilled for us, and, as expected, she instantly offers to make my wedding gown, and I happily accept. It won’t be a chore. I’ve always loved that woman’s designs.
Then we call the rest of Keanu’s brothers and my friend Kelly, ensuring everyone knows to keep the news private. We don’t want anything leaking to the press in case that bastard finds out where we are. But I also want to enjoy this time with my husband without any media intrusion.
“So, how does it feel to be a married woman?” Keaton asks after we’ve polished off the delicious wedding cake.
“Pretty damn awesome,” I truthfully reply, grinning as I stare at my gorgeous husband. Keanu is deep in conversation with Kent, Keven, and Cheryl, completely oblivious to my ogling.
“I can see that.” Keaton clinks his glass against mine. “I’m so happy for both of you. I’ve always known you were the one for my brother. He’s only ever had eyes for you.”
“I never even thought to invite Melissa,” I blurt, suddenly realizing my faux pas. “I’m so sorry. She could have come. If you—”
“It’s fine.” Keats cuts in, halting my words. “Honestly. She’s at college, and we don’t really see much of each other anymore.”
“Oh.” I’m not sure what to say to that. I don’t know Keaton all that well, and I’ve never met Melissa. All I know of her is from what Keanu has said. “Do you think—"
“No.” He shakes his head repeatedly, swallowing a large mouthful of champagne. “We’re definitely not heading down the marriage path,” he says, confirming he knew what I was going to ask.
“Well, you’re still young. I know we’re young, but when you know, you know. Waiting wouldn’t have made a bit of difference,” I confidently exclaim.
“I know exactly what you mean,” he cryptically replies.
* * *
We stayat the restaurant for hours, laughing, eating, and drinking, and I’m definitely a little tipsy as we make our way back to the villa. But the alcohol takes the edge off my nerves, which are growing in intensity the closer we get to the house.
Tonight is the night I lose my virginity and consummate my marriage.
I’m excited and nervous in equal measures.
“Did you do this?” I ask, gasping as I open our bedroom door. Copious lit candles rim the perimeter of the room, and with the line of rose petals leading from the door to the bed and scattered over the bed covers, it’s the most romantic setting. Another bottle of champagne rests in an ice bucket, alongside two flutes and a bowl of chocolate strawberries, by the bed.
Keanu reels me into his arms. “You like?”
“I love it and you.” I hug him tightly, and I never want to let go. “I love you so much, K.” I look up at him, and I know my eyes are eager, my cheeks flushed. “Thank you for today. It was the most incredible day of my life.”
“Mine too, wife.” He lifts me up, and I wrap my legs around his waist. He carries me to the bed, gently placing me down on it.
I clear my throat. “Would it be okay if I got changed in the bathroom?”
He sits beside me, cupping my cheek. “Of course. Whatever you need.” He leans in, kissing me softly. “Are you still okay with this?”
