Post by Austen Blackwell on Apr 24, 2018 12:05:56 GMT -5
“More Than Anyone” begins to play on the speaker system as the lights come down under the tent on the beach for the wedding reception. The DJ gets on the mic and introduces the happy couple.
DJ: For their first dance, let’s give Mr. and Mrs Austen and Mercedes Blackwell a hand.
The reception claps for them as Austen stands up. With the fresh, matching kicks he leads Mercedes to the middle of the tent as a small dance floor was in place. The Gavin DeGraw song begins to play as he takes his bride close to his chest as the two of them begin to dance.
Austen smiles as he looks into the eyes of his wife, and whispers.
Austen: I’ve got a surprise for you. Remember this song? It was playing the first time we drove out to the cove, in the car.
Mercedes: I do remember it. You would think of this, more so Summer of Love is a bit too fast.
She would whisper back to him, as she looks him in his eyes. She was happy, and in love. The wedding, and everything had went off perfectly. She was now Mrs. Mercedes Blackwell.
They continue to slow dance as their friends, families, and loved-ones look out onto them. He can tell she was not loving the attention.
Austen: Used to being backstage? Without the bright lights on you?
He smiles as he pulled her closer, and her head onto his shoulder.
Mercedes: You could say that. I’m not complaining, just you know how it is. It’s why I don’t mind being General Manager, I’m not out in the bright lights unless it is needed. You’re the one for the bright lights. That is also work, that’s not what today is about.
She reminded him, as she felt comfortable a bit with her head on his shoulder. She was trying to not let the attention get to her, as she knew it was just part of the day.
Austen: You ready?
He looks at her with a smirk. He had a plan; he ALWAYS had a plan.
Mercedes: I.. yes…
She knew he had something in mind, and she trusted him, she trusted him with her life, she married him after all. She looked at him waiting to see what the plan was.
The song slowly faded into another, and she knew immediately.
Austen: Slow dancing is great. And we did it, but let’s enjoy this. Let’s enjoy things, our way.
“Summer of Love” by NOTD begins to play.
Austen: Come on everyone, get up here. Dance. This is a party, isn’t it?
Hunter and Alexis pop up, Hunter loved to dance. Stacy grabbed and dragged Robbie. And each of the couples started up onto the dance floor as they would take part in the second half.
Austen: Better… wife?
Mercedes smiles as she nods her head at him.
Mercedes: Much better husband.
She leans in kissing him softly. While she is, she hears some people clapping off the dance floor for them, as she blushes a bit.
Austen: I love you, Mercedes Blackwell.
She smiles hearing that, loving it.
Mercedes: I love you too Austen Blackwell.
The song continues as the floor fills up and everyone dances enjoying the great time.
* * * *
*Clank Clank Clank*
Robbie Blackwell clanks his spoon against a glass.
Robbie: Can I get everyone’s attention please? Please?
The crowd hushes.
Robbie: I want to make a toast. To my best friend and cousin. And his beautiful wife. Two people in my life that are amazing and deserve only the most happiness. I hope that I can find half of the happiness that you both have found. To be best friends and to be so in love, it is amazing. I can remember Austen always being late to the party with girls and dating. Hunter and me were always the ones with girls and dates. Austen was always the one back at home. And here he is, the one getting married first.
Robbie holds his glass up.
Robbie: From Stacy and myself, and on behalf of everyone. We love you. Keep being the couple that you are!
Everyone holds their glasses high in toast and takes a drink, some finishing off their drinks.
* * * *
Austen and his mother, Angela, head out to the dance floor as they get ready for the traditional Mother and Son dance. “Your Song” by Elton John begins to play. His mother was an Elton John fan and it was something he grew up on.
Angela: I am so proud of you.
Austen smiles.
Austen: Thanks, mom.
Angela: I am sorry your father is not here.
Austen: It is fine. It is better without him here.
Angela nods her head as they begin to dance. Mercedes looks on as Angela looks out and smiles at the bride.
Angela: She is the sweetest thing. I am so happy for the both of you.
Austen: I am the lucky one.
Angela: I raised a strong, young man.
She fixes his bow tie.
Austen: You did.
A few tears come down from Angela’s eye.
Austen: Don’t cry mom.
Angela: Tears of joy, Austen. Tears of joy.
Angela rests her head on her son’s shoulder as they slow dance. He looks out to Mercedes as she mouths “I love you” to him. He mouths it back. For what they went through over the last year, it was nice to have things calming down and his mom in their court.
Angela: Austen?
Austen: Yeah, mom?
Angela: I need to get away. I am going to sell the house.
She looks up to him.
Austen: What? Why?
Angela: I haven’t been who I wanted to be. Your father-
Austen nods and exhales.
Austen: I understand. So a new house?
Angela: A new… me. I am going to move. I am not sure where, yet. New York? Miami? Dallas? Some big city. I want to date again. I want to love again. I want to be me again.
This was a new side of his mother that he never saw, but he was married now. A new maturity came with it.
Austen: I support you, always mom.
Angela: I love you, Austen.
Austen: I love you too, Mom.
He smiles as she again rests her head on his shoulder as they finish their dance.
* * * *
Mercedes, and her father head to the dance floor, as it was time for their father-daughter dance. Once on the dance floor, Bob Carlisle - Butterfly Kisses starts to play, as the two start to dance. Mr. Carter looks down at his daughter, as he smiles.
Mr. Carter: Your mom, and I couldn’t be any more happier for you dear.
Mercedes nods her head lightly
Mercedes: I know Dad. I’m glad you accept Austen.
Mr. Carter: What’s not to accept about him? He makes you happy, and loves you. We can both see that. We knew the minute we seen you two when you visited, more so with the whole piggy thing.
Mercedes laughs, along with her Dad, as she remembers back to dinner at her parents house when they first met Austen. Her dad was confused about the piggy thing, even more so once Austen made pig noises.
Mercedes: That was an interesting dinner. For real, you guys could see it then? No wonder you look at him like a son.
Mr. Carter: Always will see him as our son, he is perfect for you. No matter what happens, you two will work it out. It’s why you guys are soulmates.
Mercedes nods her head, as she thinks about somethings, and knew he was right.
Mr. Carter: But, I do want you to remember, you will always be my little girl, no matter if you live across the country, married, or even have kids.
Mercedes wrinkles her nose.
Mercedes: Come on Dad, don’t go all little girl stuff. I’m a married woman now.
Her father laughs.
Mr. Carter: Just wait till you hear your mother, she will be saying more, and may even cry.
Mercedes: Awww man. Alright, I’ll be prepared. For now though, let’s just dance, and enjoy ourselves.
Mr. Carter nods his head, as they continue to dance till it is finished.
* * * *
Mercedes was looking around at all the guests, as she spots her sisters. She heads over to Madyson, and Mya, smiling wide as she sees them.
Mercedes: I'm glad you both could come. You don't know how much this means to me.
She looks at them both.
Mercedes: Even though, now that I'm married, when's your turn?
Madyson: Ummmm I have to find a guy unless I can myself then next week!
Mya looks over at Madyson as she shakes her head.
Mya: Never for me. You'll find someone Maddy. Patience, and you will.
Mercedes: Yeah, don't rush it, you'll know when the right one comes. I did.
Madyson: Honestly not worried about it I mean it's me I did better when a man wasn't around to distract me.
Mercedes: You think so? Well maybe one day. Then you can have Mom, and Dad fawning over you, and crying like I did.
Mya laughs.
Mya: They are happy for you, just like I am. You deserve the happiness.
Madyson: Look it's your day everyone is happy for you. I just know I let it distract me and I left to find myself.
Mercedes: Well I am glad you are back. I missed having you around to bug even if on twitter.
Madyson: It's my bad that I let everything go but in the end I needed and had to do what was best for me I knew I'd be back when time was right.
Mercedes: Perfect timing, my wedding. Both of you are, it does mean a lot, more than you guys realize. I think Mom is enjoying the three of us together too.
Madyson: Shhh she didn't even know it was me. Laughs
Mercedes and Mya laughs.
Mya: She never does me, but she hardly sees me with me in New York, and them in Miami.
Madyson: True I am going back been traveling to find myself to train myself.
Mercedes: Well you need to travel to California more, we have the room for visit.
Mya: Aren't you wrestling in New York too?
Madyson: I will be I mean I signed a contract too. I'm sure I'll visit though
Mya: Well you got a place to stay at in New York as well. Don't need any hotel, I mean it.
Mercedes laughs.
Mercedes: Alright, enough business talk, my wedding, wait.... it's wrestlers, it's bound to happen.
Madyson: Sweet I'm packing all my stuff and moving in.. laughs Yeah stop talking about wrestling but I am telling you I will body slam just about anyone who gets in my way.
Mercedes: You would. No body slamming my guests. A lot of them are my talent in West Coast. They wrestle with, and against Austen, don't need them after him for it.
Madyson: No fun..
Mercedes: Only fun if you sign.
Madyson: I did sign somewhere .. Never can tell what my future holds
Mercedes: True. Oh well, maybe one day. You two should go, mingle, enjoy the guests, and fun.
Madyson: Getting drunk hitting on.. Wait yes mingle have fun..
Mya smirks, as she hugs Mercedes, and walks away towards her guy.
Mya: Yeah mingle, see you two.
Mercedes laughs.
Mercedes: Yeah I'm meaning you Maddy.
Madyson: What...
Mercedes: Go mingle Maddy. Have fun, meet some of the others.
Madyson: Fine.... I will...
Mercedes: Thank you.
She smiles, as she hugs her sister, before she walks away.
* * * *
The intro to “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys begins to play, and Danielle’s eyes light up.
Danielle: I love this song! Come on, Donny!
Donovan: What the...?
He doesn’t even have enough time to finish his sentence as Danielle grabs him by the wrist and pulls him out of his seat and onto the dance floor.
♪Aruba, Jamaica...
Ooh, I wanna take you
To Bermuda, Bahama,
Come on, pretty mama...♪
Donovan looks around, making sure no one notices how awkward he feels coming out onto the dance floor. While he’s taken a few dance classes with Danielle, “Kokomo” isn’t a song that he could dance to. Or so he thinks.
Danielle gently wraps her arms around the back of his neck and smiles at him.
Danielle: Surely you remember slow-dancing at your Senior Prom...
Donovan chuckles nervously, wondering if any answer he gives her might wind up getting him in trouble.
Donovan: Danielle, I don’t think...
Danielle: Just answer the question, you big silly!
Donovan shakes his head, remembering what’s really important.
Donovan: Never mind that... tonight’s about the bride and groom. We had our moment; now it’s their turn.
Danielle: You’re right, Spidey. I mean... look at them! The last time I saw a pair so happy and in love....
She looks into Donovan’s eyes and her eyes almost start to tear up as she smiles at him. He reaches up and brushes his hand against her cheek before pulling her close to him. Together, they stare across the dance floor at Austen and Mercedes, who look like they’re already in their own world of marital bliss.
Donovan: And to think... our anniversaries are exactly four months apart. Austen and I can give each other reminders so we don’t end up in the dog house...
Danielle pulls away slightly, poking him in the chest.
Danielle: You ASS!
Donovan lets out a hearty laugh. Danielle can only shake her head before she eventually joins in, resting her head on his chest as the music continues to play.
* * * *
All the ladies, and Remi, were crowded around, as it was time for the bouquet toss. Mercedes’ sister, Mya Carter was standing in the back, as she wasn’t really caring if she caught it or not, while her other sister Madyson was standing towards the front. Alexis Crowley was standing by Madyson, while Andi Michaels was standing in the middle. Stacy Ann Wilson, was standing by Andi, while Danielle Basch’s mother Marie LeBlanc was standing behind them. Austen’s moms, Angela, and Isabella are standing next to Marie. Iphigenia is standing near the front in awe of everything. Tasmin was in the middle as well. Danni (Anderson) Maverick is bouncing up and down close to the front while Mari is actually around the middle. She seems fascinated yet remains realistic. As for Remi, being the only male in the group, he’s somewhere between the front and middle, a stupid yet cute grin on his face. It would be interesting if he caught the bouquet, but he’s not holding his breath.
The lady of the moment, Mercedes Blackwell walks in front of the ladies and the singular gentleman, as she looks at them. She smiles softly.
Mercedes: Everyone ready?
Danni M: YAAAS!
The pink and purple-haired girl’s excitement speaks for everyone, it seems. Danni Basch was standing next to her, as Mercedes turns to face her. Danni smiles, as she puts a blindfold over Mercedes’ eyes. She turns her a few times, before having her face away from the others. With Mercedes now facing the ocean, she throws the bouquet behind her, as it goes in the air. Mya just stands still, as she watches everyone. Iphigenia wishes to catch it, but she decides to be polite and give everyone else a chance. Andi goes to jump up, but slips in the sand, landing on her butt. Alexis moves forward hoping to catch it, but Madyson pulls her back, leading to Alexis turning, and pushing her back, as they both slip, falling to the sand. The three mothers, go to move forward, but stop, with the bodies in front of them. Seeing “the casualties of the bouquet”, Tasmin goes to catch it as well, as she dodges Andi falling on her butt. Maricela decides this is not safe and moves to find distance. Danni Maverick hops up and down, but being so tiny compared to the other ladies, she has no chance of reaching the bouquet. Remi attempts to calculate the arch of the throw and estimate the weight of the bouquet, moving into a position where he believes he can reach out and simply catch it. However, Stacy moves out of the way, and jumps over Andi, landing in front of her, as she goes to catch it.
Andi reaches up to grab Stacy’s foot, but as she does, the bouquet lands right in Stacy’s arms, letting her catch it. Mercedes turns in time to see it, as she smiles, before glancing at Robbie, laughing, as Austen laughs as well. Remi and the girls all crowd around Stacy, as the scene fades out.
* * * *
Johnny Fitzsimmons remains attached to the open bar through most of the reception. It isn’t until he looks up that he realizes he knows who the bartender is.
Johnny: Ronnie? What the hell are you doing here?
Ronnie: While my memory was gone I needed to do something to supplement the income I wasn’t making from movies so I started bartending. This is my last gig before I go back full time to smut. What are you doing here?
Johnny: Ronnie this is a wedding of two members of WCG. Kaylee and Josh are here.
Ronnie: Are they really? Weird. Yeah, I don’t watch this show so I had no idea. Can I get you another drink?
Johnny: Absolutely. I’ve been trying to be more social and it made me forget that weddings give me the ‘Gah’.
Ronnie: I hear that, brother. After my third divorce I swore off of ever getting married again.
Johnny: You’ve been divorced three times? I never even knew you were married. When was the last divorce?
Ronnie: Last Wednesday but that was more of an annulment. Vegas is crazy.
Johnny: Pour faster.
Ronnie pours Johnny another Jameson and ginger ale. Johnny takes a drink.
Ronnie: You’re nervous about your two ladies aren’t you?
Johnny: You have no idea.
Ronnie: Which one is pregnant?
Johnny chokes as he accidentally drinks down the wrong hole.
Ronnie: See, I was just kidding but based on your reaction I pretty much nailed it didn’t I?
Johnny: It’s….-Cough- more complicated than that. I feel like I’m expected to take things to the next level but...I mean I can’t legally get married to both of them. If I could I would though.
Josh approaches, having consumed far less alcohol than Johnny but somehow being at least ten times as drunk. Josh is sweaty from all of the dancing he’s been doing as someone got an 80’s playlist going
Josh: Hey guys! Wha’s going on?
Johnny: Not much.
Ronnie: Mari is pregnant.
Johnny: I hate you, Ronnie.
Ronnie: Do you hate me enough to move away from the bar and maybe try and actually enjoy yourself?
Johnny narrows his eyes at Ronnie. Ronnie smirks.
Johnny: Was that really your game?
Ronnie: I’m not telling.
Johnny downs the rest of his drink quickly and goes to join his two girlfriends.
Josh: ...Who is Mari?
Ronnie: You should really pay more attention. Let’s get you some water, buddy.
Ronnie tends to his drunken best friend as the scene fades out.
* * * *
Robbie: Okay, time to cut the cake! Come on newlyweds!
Austen stands up and helps Mercedes up to her feet. The cake was on the table, as it was three tiers, each tier a smaller size as it goes up. It had blue frosting, with baby blue, and chocolate flower decorations on it. The cake was both white, and chocolate, just depended on the tier. Mercedes looks at Austen as she smiles.
Mercedes: Just don’t make me a mess.
She sticks her tongue out at him, joking of course. Austen cuts a small piece and starts off slowly towards her mouth, but before she can say much, he shoves it right into her mouth as he begins to laugh.
Robbie: Wow. She is going to kick your ass for that.
Austen: I know.
Mercedes smirks, as she looks at him. She cuts off a piece, a little bigger than his was. She starts to bring it up to his mouth, but stops before she gets to it. She keeps looking him in his eyes, as she brings it closer, and just smashes it into his face, as she laughs.
Mercedes: Or just do that.
Austen tries to wipe it off of his cheek and chin, getting it into his mouth, but there was far too much cake.
Robbie: You two…
They both look at Robbie.
Robbie: No no no.
And before he can make a move, both of them smash a piece into his face as Stacy looks on. Stacy was laughing, as she backs up, looking at all the other guests.
Stacy: Are you guys really going to turn this into a cake fight?
The three of them look at Stacy as she then gets nailed with some cake.
Angela: Come on, save some cake for everyone else.
Austen’s mom steps in to try to be the voice of reason.
Angela: Let’s make sure that everyone actually gets to enjoy the cake.
She laughs as the four of them finally come to their senses and back off for Angela to cut the cake for them, and the four of them to get cleaned up.
* * * *
At the reception, there was another person who was spending time, and taking advantage of the open bar. It was Mercedes oldest sister Mya. She was there alone, just hadn’t really let many know that she was single now. She headed up to get another vodka and orange juice, as she looks at the bartender. She knew of him as Ronnie North, thanks to her watching NGW from time to time. She smiles lightly.
Mya: What happens for a wrestler to need to bartend?
She looks at him, as she couldn’t help but to ask.
Ronnie: Hm? Oh I just do this to meet women. You can’t deny it’s effectiveness so far.
Ronnie smirks at her as he makes her another Screwdriver.
Ronnie: Friend of the bride? The groom? Or are you like my pal Johnny and just here for the bar?
Mya: Sister of the bride actually. Just to meet women, must mean you enjoy them a lot. I like that in a guy.
She takes the drink when he hands it to her, as she takes a drink from it.
Mya: Must meet a lot of women this way, yet only one I see up here is me. That is a shame. Seems at same time, not many guys around who are single either.
Ronnie: Is it a shame? It doesn’t have to be, you know.
Mumbling comes from the only other individual at the bar. Joshua Goldstein who sits up out of his dead sleep, saying something about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a drunken slur.
Ronnie: Keep going on that water, buddy.
Josh makes a noise of agreement and takes a sip of the water in front of him.
Mya: Well not a shame for me, shame for the other females not being up here. They miss out on something I might not.
She had a feeling she wasn’t overstepping her bounds with him either, as she glances down at Josh.
Mya: Is he going to be alright? He seems a bit drunk.
Ronnie: Yeah, he’ll be okay soon enough. He’s a lightweight but he has a heck of a metabolism. His wife should be along soon to keep an eye on him.
Ronnie pats his best friend on the head. Josh mumbles something about wanting to go to Waffle House.
Ronnie: My shift ends in an hour. Don’t know if you need that information for any reason but there it is.
Mya: You know him real well. That’s good. Least his wife will keep an eye on him, so you can get out of here, and enjoy yourself.
She liked he gave it, as she reaches out to place a hand on his arm.
Mya: Actually, I think I do need it. I can meet up with you, we can go back to hotel room, and have some fun if you wanted.
Ronnie tilts his sunglasses down and makes eye contact with Mya, knowing of only one word that would serve as an adequate response to her proposition.
Ronnie: Radical.
Mya liked him saying that, as she winks at him, before taking her drink, and walking away leaving him stand there for now.
* * * *
Austen: Okay boys, it is time for the garter toss. Any non-married men, step forward.
Many of the guys look around to each other, and they start to step forward. Hunter, Robbie, Mateo, Ronnie, Adam, and JD.. Johnny stays out of the way. Jason Hunter sticks around in the back, but it is obvious he wants little part of the entire thing. They join the dance floor as Austen sets up a chair and helps his way to it. Austen drops down to his knees and with a smirk on his face reaches up the leg of his wife. Mercedes squirms a bit, as Austen is making a whole thing of it.
Mercedes: Babe your hands tickle.
She was trying not to laugh, as she is looking down, watching him. She could see Ronnie watching, and enjoying it, while she places her hands on Austen’s shoulder. Slowly Austen pulls down the garter and twirls it around his finger.
Austen: Okay boys… let’s get ready.
Mercedes can see the significant others of a few of the guys looking on.
Austen: One…. Two…. Three…..
Austen tosses it behind his head towards the guys as he sees Mercedes’ eyes follow it. Robbie tries to grab it as Stacy eggs him on, it would make for a matching pair. Hunter and Mateo jump. JD tries for it, and even Ronnie. But the man that brings it down is Adam Sanders. He somehow has it land in his hands as he looks at it, and then around to the rest of the guys.
Austen: Who got it?
Austen turns around.
Mercedes: This I think is the most awkward moment for Adam ever.
Mercedes was trying not to laugh, as she was happy he had caught it though. She stands up, as she stands next to Austen looking towards Adam, as she didn’t know what he was going to do, or say.
Austen: Izzy looks scared.
And she did as Austen and Mercedes have a good chuckle watching Adam make his way back over to Izzy with the garter in hand.
DJ: For their first dance, let’s give Mr. and Mrs Austen and Mercedes Blackwell a hand.
The reception claps for them as Austen stands up. With the fresh, matching kicks he leads Mercedes to the middle of the tent as a small dance floor was in place. The Gavin DeGraw song begins to play as he takes his bride close to his chest as the two of them begin to dance.
Austen smiles as he looks into the eyes of his wife, and whispers.
Austen: I’ve got a surprise for you. Remember this song? It was playing the first time we drove out to the cove, in the car.
Mercedes: I do remember it. You would think of this, more so Summer of Love is a bit too fast.
She would whisper back to him, as she looks him in his eyes. She was happy, and in love. The wedding, and everything had went off perfectly. She was now Mrs. Mercedes Blackwell.
They continue to slow dance as their friends, families, and loved-ones look out onto them. He can tell she was not loving the attention.
Austen: Used to being backstage? Without the bright lights on you?
He smiles as he pulled her closer, and her head onto his shoulder.
Mercedes: You could say that. I’m not complaining, just you know how it is. It’s why I don’t mind being General Manager, I’m not out in the bright lights unless it is needed. You’re the one for the bright lights. That is also work, that’s not what today is about.
She reminded him, as she felt comfortable a bit with her head on his shoulder. She was trying to not let the attention get to her, as she knew it was just part of the day.
Austen: You ready?
He looks at her with a smirk. He had a plan; he ALWAYS had a plan.
Mercedes: I.. yes…
She knew he had something in mind, and she trusted him, she trusted him with her life, she married him after all. She looked at him waiting to see what the plan was.
The song slowly faded into another, and she knew immediately.
Austen: Slow dancing is great. And we did it, but let’s enjoy this. Let’s enjoy things, our way.
“Summer of Love” by NOTD begins to play.
Austen: Come on everyone, get up here. Dance. This is a party, isn’t it?
Hunter and Alexis pop up, Hunter loved to dance. Stacy grabbed and dragged Robbie. And each of the couples started up onto the dance floor as they would take part in the second half.
Austen: Better… wife?
Mercedes smiles as she nods her head at him.
Mercedes: Much better husband.
She leans in kissing him softly. While she is, she hears some people clapping off the dance floor for them, as she blushes a bit.
Austen: I love you, Mercedes Blackwell.
She smiles hearing that, loving it.
Mercedes: I love you too Austen Blackwell.
The song continues as the floor fills up and everyone dances enjoying the great time.
* * * *
*Clank Clank Clank*
Robbie Blackwell clanks his spoon against a glass.
Robbie: Can I get everyone’s attention please? Please?
The crowd hushes.
Robbie: I want to make a toast. To my best friend and cousin. And his beautiful wife. Two people in my life that are amazing and deserve only the most happiness. I hope that I can find half of the happiness that you both have found. To be best friends and to be so in love, it is amazing. I can remember Austen always being late to the party with girls and dating. Hunter and me were always the ones with girls and dates. Austen was always the one back at home. And here he is, the one getting married first.
Robbie holds his glass up.
Robbie: From Stacy and myself, and on behalf of everyone. We love you. Keep being the couple that you are!
Everyone holds their glasses high in toast and takes a drink, some finishing off their drinks.
* * * *
Austen and his mother, Angela, head out to the dance floor as they get ready for the traditional Mother and Son dance. “Your Song” by Elton John begins to play. His mother was an Elton John fan and it was something he grew up on.
Angela: I am so proud of you.
Austen smiles.
Austen: Thanks, mom.
Angela: I am sorry your father is not here.
Austen: It is fine. It is better without him here.
Angela nods her head as they begin to dance. Mercedes looks on as Angela looks out and smiles at the bride.
Angela: She is the sweetest thing. I am so happy for the both of you.
Austen: I am the lucky one.
Angela: I raised a strong, young man.
She fixes his bow tie.
Austen: You did.
A few tears come down from Angela’s eye.
Austen: Don’t cry mom.
Angela: Tears of joy, Austen. Tears of joy.
Angela rests her head on her son’s shoulder as they slow dance. He looks out to Mercedes as she mouths “I love you” to him. He mouths it back. For what they went through over the last year, it was nice to have things calming down and his mom in their court.
Angela: Austen?
Austen: Yeah, mom?
Angela: I need to get away. I am going to sell the house.
She looks up to him.
Austen: What? Why?
Angela: I haven’t been who I wanted to be. Your father-
Austen nods and exhales.
Austen: I understand. So a new house?
Angela: A new… me. I am going to move. I am not sure where, yet. New York? Miami? Dallas? Some big city. I want to date again. I want to love again. I want to be me again.
This was a new side of his mother that he never saw, but he was married now. A new maturity came with it.
Austen: I support you, always mom.
Angela: I love you, Austen.
Austen: I love you too, Mom.
He smiles as she again rests her head on his shoulder as they finish their dance.
* * * *
Mercedes, and her father head to the dance floor, as it was time for their father-daughter dance. Once on the dance floor, Bob Carlisle - Butterfly Kisses starts to play, as the two start to dance. Mr. Carter looks down at his daughter, as he smiles.
Mr. Carter: Your mom, and I couldn’t be any more happier for you dear.
Mercedes nods her head lightly
Mercedes: I know Dad. I’m glad you accept Austen.
Mr. Carter: What’s not to accept about him? He makes you happy, and loves you. We can both see that. We knew the minute we seen you two when you visited, more so with the whole piggy thing.
Mercedes laughs, along with her Dad, as she remembers back to dinner at her parents house when they first met Austen. Her dad was confused about the piggy thing, even more so once Austen made pig noises.
Mercedes: That was an interesting dinner. For real, you guys could see it then? No wonder you look at him like a son.
Mr. Carter: Always will see him as our son, he is perfect for you. No matter what happens, you two will work it out. It’s why you guys are soulmates.
Mercedes nods her head, as she thinks about somethings, and knew he was right.
Mr. Carter: But, I do want you to remember, you will always be my little girl, no matter if you live across the country, married, or even have kids.
Mercedes wrinkles her nose.
Mercedes: Come on Dad, don’t go all little girl stuff. I’m a married woman now.
Her father laughs.
Mr. Carter: Just wait till you hear your mother, she will be saying more, and may even cry.
Mercedes: Awww man. Alright, I’ll be prepared. For now though, let’s just dance, and enjoy ourselves.
Mr. Carter nods his head, as they continue to dance till it is finished.
* * * *
Mercedes was looking around at all the guests, as she spots her sisters. She heads over to Madyson, and Mya, smiling wide as she sees them.
Mercedes: I'm glad you both could come. You don't know how much this means to me.
She looks at them both.
Mercedes: Even though, now that I'm married, when's your turn?
Madyson: Ummmm I have to find a guy unless I can myself then next week!
Mya looks over at Madyson as she shakes her head.
Mya: Never for me. You'll find someone Maddy. Patience, and you will.
Mercedes: Yeah, don't rush it, you'll know when the right one comes. I did.
Madyson: Honestly not worried about it I mean it's me I did better when a man wasn't around to distract me.
Mercedes: You think so? Well maybe one day. Then you can have Mom, and Dad fawning over you, and crying like I did.
Mya laughs.
Mya: They are happy for you, just like I am. You deserve the happiness.
Madyson: Look it's your day everyone is happy for you. I just know I let it distract me and I left to find myself.
Mercedes: Well I am glad you are back. I missed having you around to bug even if on twitter.
Madyson: It's my bad that I let everything go but in the end I needed and had to do what was best for me I knew I'd be back when time was right.
Mercedes: Perfect timing, my wedding. Both of you are, it does mean a lot, more than you guys realize. I think Mom is enjoying the three of us together too.
Madyson: Shhh she didn't even know it was me. Laughs
Mercedes and Mya laughs.
Mya: She never does me, but she hardly sees me with me in New York, and them in Miami.
Madyson: True I am going back been traveling to find myself to train myself.
Mercedes: Well you need to travel to California more, we have the room for visit.
Mya: Aren't you wrestling in New York too?
Madyson: I will be I mean I signed a contract too. I'm sure I'll visit though
Mya: Well you got a place to stay at in New York as well. Don't need any hotel, I mean it.
Mercedes laughs.
Mercedes: Alright, enough business talk, my wedding, wait.... it's wrestlers, it's bound to happen.
Madyson: Sweet I'm packing all my stuff and moving in.. laughs Yeah stop talking about wrestling but I am telling you I will body slam just about anyone who gets in my way.
Mercedes: You would. No body slamming my guests. A lot of them are my talent in West Coast. They wrestle with, and against Austen, don't need them after him for it.
Madyson: No fun..
Mercedes: Only fun if you sign.
Madyson: I did sign somewhere .. Never can tell what my future holds
Mercedes: True. Oh well, maybe one day. You two should go, mingle, enjoy the guests, and fun.
Madyson: Getting drunk hitting on.. Wait yes mingle have fun..
Mya smirks, as she hugs Mercedes, and walks away towards her guy.
Mya: Yeah mingle, see you two.
Mercedes laughs.
Mercedes: Yeah I'm meaning you Maddy.
Madyson: What...
Mercedes: Go mingle Maddy. Have fun, meet some of the others.
Madyson: Fine.... I will...
Mercedes: Thank you.
She smiles, as she hugs her sister, before she walks away.
* * * *
The intro to “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys begins to play, and Danielle’s eyes light up.
Danielle: I love this song! Come on, Donny!
Donovan: What the...?
He doesn’t even have enough time to finish his sentence as Danielle grabs him by the wrist and pulls him out of his seat and onto the dance floor.
♪Aruba, Jamaica...
Ooh, I wanna take you
To Bermuda, Bahama,
Come on, pretty mama...♪
Donovan looks around, making sure no one notices how awkward he feels coming out onto the dance floor. While he’s taken a few dance classes with Danielle, “Kokomo” isn’t a song that he could dance to. Or so he thinks.
Danielle gently wraps her arms around the back of his neck and smiles at him.
Danielle: Surely you remember slow-dancing at your Senior Prom...
Donovan chuckles nervously, wondering if any answer he gives her might wind up getting him in trouble.
Donovan: Danielle, I don’t think...
Danielle: Just answer the question, you big silly!
Donovan shakes his head, remembering what’s really important.
Donovan: Never mind that... tonight’s about the bride and groom. We had our moment; now it’s their turn.
Danielle: You’re right, Spidey. I mean... look at them! The last time I saw a pair so happy and in love....
She looks into Donovan’s eyes and her eyes almost start to tear up as she smiles at him. He reaches up and brushes his hand against her cheek before pulling her close to him. Together, they stare across the dance floor at Austen and Mercedes, who look like they’re already in their own world of marital bliss.
Donovan: And to think... our anniversaries are exactly four months apart. Austen and I can give each other reminders so we don’t end up in the dog house...
Danielle pulls away slightly, poking him in the chest.
Danielle: You ASS!
Donovan lets out a hearty laugh. Danielle can only shake her head before she eventually joins in, resting her head on his chest as the music continues to play.
* * * *
All the ladies, and Remi, were crowded around, as it was time for the bouquet toss. Mercedes’ sister, Mya Carter was standing in the back, as she wasn’t really caring if she caught it or not, while her other sister Madyson was standing towards the front. Alexis Crowley was standing by Madyson, while Andi Michaels was standing in the middle. Stacy Ann Wilson, was standing by Andi, while Danielle Basch’s mother Marie LeBlanc was standing behind them. Austen’s moms, Angela, and Isabella are standing next to Marie. Iphigenia is standing near the front in awe of everything. Tasmin was in the middle as well. Danni (Anderson) Maverick is bouncing up and down close to the front while Mari is actually around the middle. She seems fascinated yet remains realistic. As for Remi, being the only male in the group, he’s somewhere between the front and middle, a stupid yet cute grin on his face. It would be interesting if he caught the bouquet, but he’s not holding his breath.
The lady of the moment, Mercedes Blackwell walks in front of the ladies and the singular gentleman, as she looks at them. She smiles softly.
Mercedes: Everyone ready?
Danni M: YAAAS!
The pink and purple-haired girl’s excitement speaks for everyone, it seems. Danni Basch was standing next to her, as Mercedes turns to face her. Danni smiles, as she puts a blindfold over Mercedes’ eyes. She turns her a few times, before having her face away from the others. With Mercedes now facing the ocean, she throws the bouquet behind her, as it goes in the air. Mya just stands still, as she watches everyone. Iphigenia wishes to catch it, but she decides to be polite and give everyone else a chance. Andi goes to jump up, but slips in the sand, landing on her butt. Alexis moves forward hoping to catch it, but Madyson pulls her back, leading to Alexis turning, and pushing her back, as they both slip, falling to the sand. The three mothers, go to move forward, but stop, with the bodies in front of them. Seeing “the casualties of the bouquet”, Tasmin goes to catch it as well, as she dodges Andi falling on her butt. Maricela decides this is not safe and moves to find distance. Danni Maverick hops up and down, but being so tiny compared to the other ladies, she has no chance of reaching the bouquet. Remi attempts to calculate the arch of the throw and estimate the weight of the bouquet, moving into a position where he believes he can reach out and simply catch it. However, Stacy moves out of the way, and jumps over Andi, landing in front of her, as she goes to catch it.
Andi reaches up to grab Stacy’s foot, but as she does, the bouquet lands right in Stacy’s arms, letting her catch it. Mercedes turns in time to see it, as she smiles, before glancing at Robbie, laughing, as Austen laughs as well. Remi and the girls all crowd around Stacy, as the scene fades out.
* * * *
Johnny Fitzsimmons remains attached to the open bar through most of the reception. It isn’t until he looks up that he realizes he knows who the bartender is.
Johnny: Ronnie? What the hell are you doing here?
Ronnie: While my memory was gone I needed to do something to supplement the income I wasn’t making from movies so I started bartending. This is my last gig before I go back full time to smut. What are you doing here?
Johnny: Ronnie this is a wedding of two members of WCG. Kaylee and Josh are here.
Ronnie: Are they really? Weird. Yeah, I don’t watch this show so I had no idea. Can I get you another drink?
Johnny: Absolutely. I’ve been trying to be more social and it made me forget that weddings give me the ‘Gah’.
Ronnie: I hear that, brother. After my third divorce I swore off of ever getting married again.
Johnny: You’ve been divorced three times? I never even knew you were married. When was the last divorce?
Ronnie: Last Wednesday but that was more of an annulment. Vegas is crazy.
Johnny: Pour faster.
Ronnie pours Johnny another Jameson and ginger ale. Johnny takes a drink.
Ronnie: You’re nervous about your two ladies aren’t you?
Johnny: You have no idea.
Ronnie: Which one is pregnant?
Johnny chokes as he accidentally drinks down the wrong hole.
Ronnie: See, I was just kidding but based on your reaction I pretty much nailed it didn’t I?
Johnny: It’s….-Cough- more complicated than that. I feel like I’m expected to take things to the next level but...I mean I can’t legally get married to both of them. If I could I would though.
Josh approaches, having consumed far less alcohol than Johnny but somehow being at least ten times as drunk. Josh is sweaty from all of the dancing he’s been doing as someone got an 80’s playlist going
Josh: Hey guys! Wha’s going on?
Johnny: Not much.
Ronnie: Mari is pregnant.
Johnny: I hate you, Ronnie.
Ronnie: Do you hate me enough to move away from the bar and maybe try and actually enjoy yourself?
Johnny narrows his eyes at Ronnie. Ronnie smirks.
Johnny: Was that really your game?
Ronnie: I’m not telling.
Johnny downs the rest of his drink quickly and goes to join his two girlfriends.
Josh: ...Who is Mari?
Ronnie: You should really pay more attention. Let’s get you some water, buddy.
Ronnie tends to his drunken best friend as the scene fades out.
* * * *
Robbie: Okay, time to cut the cake! Come on newlyweds!
Austen stands up and helps Mercedes up to her feet. The cake was on the table, as it was three tiers, each tier a smaller size as it goes up. It had blue frosting, with baby blue, and chocolate flower decorations on it. The cake was both white, and chocolate, just depended on the tier. Mercedes looks at Austen as she smiles.
Mercedes: Just don’t make me a mess.
She sticks her tongue out at him, joking of course. Austen cuts a small piece and starts off slowly towards her mouth, but before she can say much, he shoves it right into her mouth as he begins to laugh.
Robbie: Wow. She is going to kick your ass for that.
Austen: I know.
Mercedes smirks, as she looks at him. She cuts off a piece, a little bigger than his was. She starts to bring it up to his mouth, but stops before she gets to it. She keeps looking him in his eyes, as she brings it closer, and just smashes it into his face, as she laughs.
Mercedes: Or just do that.
Austen tries to wipe it off of his cheek and chin, getting it into his mouth, but there was far too much cake.
Robbie: You two…
They both look at Robbie.
Robbie: No no no.
And before he can make a move, both of them smash a piece into his face as Stacy looks on. Stacy was laughing, as she backs up, looking at all the other guests.
Stacy: Are you guys really going to turn this into a cake fight?
The three of them look at Stacy as she then gets nailed with some cake.
Angela: Come on, save some cake for everyone else.
Austen’s mom steps in to try to be the voice of reason.
Angela: Let’s make sure that everyone actually gets to enjoy the cake.
She laughs as the four of them finally come to their senses and back off for Angela to cut the cake for them, and the four of them to get cleaned up.
* * * *
At the reception, there was another person who was spending time, and taking advantage of the open bar. It was Mercedes oldest sister Mya. She was there alone, just hadn’t really let many know that she was single now. She headed up to get another vodka and orange juice, as she looks at the bartender. She knew of him as Ronnie North, thanks to her watching NGW from time to time. She smiles lightly.
Mya: What happens for a wrestler to need to bartend?
She looks at him, as she couldn’t help but to ask.
Ronnie: Hm? Oh I just do this to meet women. You can’t deny it’s effectiveness so far.
Ronnie smirks at her as he makes her another Screwdriver.
Ronnie: Friend of the bride? The groom? Or are you like my pal Johnny and just here for the bar?
Mya: Sister of the bride actually. Just to meet women, must mean you enjoy them a lot. I like that in a guy.
She takes the drink when he hands it to her, as she takes a drink from it.
Mya: Must meet a lot of women this way, yet only one I see up here is me. That is a shame. Seems at same time, not many guys around who are single either.
Ronnie: Is it a shame? It doesn’t have to be, you know.
Mumbling comes from the only other individual at the bar. Joshua Goldstein who sits up out of his dead sleep, saying something about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in a drunken slur.
Ronnie: Keep going on that water, buddy.
Josh makes a noise of agreement and takes a sip of the water in front of him.
Mya: Well not a shame for me, shame for the other females not being up here. They miss out on something I might not.
She had a feeling she wasn’t overstepping her bounds with him either, as she glances down at Josh.
Mya: Is he going to be alright? He seems a bit drunk.
Ronnie: Yeah, he’ll be okay soon enough. He’s a lightweight but he has a heck of a metabolism. His wife should be along soon to keep an eye on him.
Ronnie pats his best friend on the head. Josh mumbles something about wanting to go to Waffle House.
Ronnie: My shift ends in an hour. Don’t know if you need that information for any reason but there it is.
Mya: You know him real well. That’s good. Least his wife will keep an eye on him, so you can get out of here, and enjoy yourself.
She liked he gave it, as she reaches out to place a hand on his arm.
Mya: Actually, I think I do need it. I can meet up with you, we can go back to hotel room, and have some fun if you wanted.
Ronnie tilts his sunglasses down and makes eye contact with Mya, knowing of only one word that would serve as an adequate response to her proposition.
Ronnie: Radical.
Mya liked him saying that, as she winks at him, before taking her drink, and walking away leaving him stand there for now.
* * * *
Austen: Okay boys, it is time for the garter toss. Any non-married men, step forward.
Many of the guys look around to each other, and they start to step forward. Hunter, Robbie, Mateo, Ronnie, Adam, and JD.. Johnny stays out of the way. Jason Hunter sticks around in the back, but it is obvious he wants little part of the entire thing. They join the dance floor as Austen sets up a chair and helps his way to it. Austen drops down to his knees and with a smirk on his face reaches up the leg of his wife. Mercedes squirms a bit, as Austen is making a whole thing of it.
Mercedes: Babe your hands tickle.
She was trying not to laugh, as she is looking down, watching him. She could see Ronnie watching, and enjoying it, while she places her hands on Austen’s shoulder. Slowly Austen pulls down the garter and twirls it around his finger.
Austen: Okay boys… let’s get ready.
Mercedes can see the significant others of a few of the guys looking on.
Austen: One…. Two…. Three…..
Austen tosses it behind his head towards the guys as he sees Mercedes’ eyes follow it. Robbie tries to grab it as Stacy eggs him on, it would make for a matching pair. Hunter and Mateo jump. JD tries for it, and even Ronnie. But the man that brings it down is Adam Sanders. He somehow has it land in his hands as he looks at it, and then around to the rest of the guys.
Austen: Who got it?
Austen turns around.
Mercedes: This I think is the most awkward moment for Adam ever.
Mercedes was trying not to laugh, as she was happy he had caught it though. She stands up, as she stands next to Austen looking towards Adam, as she didn’t know what he was going to do, or say.
Austen: Izzy looks scared.
And she did as Austen and Mercedes have a good chuckle watching Adam make his way back over to Izzy with the garter in hand.