by Amber Nicole
I LOVE YOU!!
FOREVER & ON
-Ash
Rereading what I just wrote, yeah I can never send this to her. I’ll lose my man card for sure. Fuck folding it, I shove it in my trunk, and forget about it. Sighing, I run my hand over my face then lie back and stare at the bedsprings above me. I can’t wait to be back in a bed. Hopefully with Gracie in my arms. Closing my eyes I let the exhaustion take me.
The following weekend I get phone privileges. I rush to the payphones and get there at a good time—only fifth in line. I hope everything is okay. Why isn’t she writing to me anymore? I know she's under a lot of pressure with her family deserting her and refusing to come to the wedding, plus dealing with the mediation outcome. I’ve been waiting to hear what the verdict was. Closing my eyes for a moment, just feeling the sun on my face, I relax a bit. I can't call her in a bad mood. She always knows when something is wrong. Someone shoves me from behind. It’s Travis. I guess you can say he’s a friend. We don’t get a lot of time for socializing here.
“Daniels you’re up, you gonna call your girl or what?”
Fuck yes. Dialing Gracie I wait, and wait I hope I don’t miss her again, I told her to take her phone in the shower. “Ash, is that you?” I hear into the phone. She sounds out of breath. “Yeah Gracie it’s me. I miss you. Is everything okay there?”
“It’s so good to hear your voice, and before you ask, I have been writing you non-stop I don't know why you’re not getting them. Yes everything’s okay I was taking a nap and didn't realize I left the phone on the kitchen counter.”
I’m going to have to call Dom to get the real story. I hope she's not slipping into her depression again. “I’m so glad you haven't stopped writing. I was getting nervous. Listen doll I can’t talk for long but tell me what the verdict was.”
“Stupid, such a waste of time. They got community service and have to pay me a fine. I don’t want their hush money. I think I’m going to donate it to the animal shelter and children’s home. Two more weeks baby then you’ll get your phone back and I can see that handsome face. I miss you Ash so much. I love you forever and on. Keep writing to me okay?”
“Always Gracie, I love you too, forever and on.” I hang up with her and give Travis the phone. She's right only two more weeks. We got this.
Basic graduation is a total nightmare. I mean I did it. I got my coin but I had a surprise guest. My mother, and of course it was a big to-do. She ran up to me as if we were lovers and not mother and son. Not to mention she looks like she's strung out on something. Skin and bones, dark circles under her eyes. She looks a mess. She didn’t stay long thank the lord. She just wanted some photos for her social media so her friends could think she was a doting supportive mother. She never apologized for missing my high school graduation or mentioned the wedding in a few months, so I didn't bring it up. Honestly I couldn’t care less if she shows up.
The best part of graduation was I got my phone back, oh and guess who got a stack full of fucking letters. Someone overheard me bragging about my beautiful amazing fiancee and thought it would be a fun joke. Yeah hilarious, only made me feel worthless and more miserable thanks man. We are also able to explore the base now. They have a motherfucking Cinnabon. Yea I ate two pecan cinnabons no shame.
Tech school flies by and next thing I know I’m getting married in just a few weeks. I’m excited, but I’m more looking forward to having Gracie in my arms again. Plus planning this wedding is so much easier now that I’m at tech school. I don’t even want to know what Hope and Dom have convinced Gracie to do in my absence. I may now be a manly military man—at least that's what Dom calls me—but I still had a vision for the day I would marry Gracie, and I will turn into a total groomzilla if I don’t get it.
I pack up my room and put Gracie’s present in my carryon. I can't wait to see my girl. It's been too long. I’m on my way, Gracie, and this time tomorrow you will be Mrs. Gracelyn Nicole Daniels. A name that's been suited for you for a long ass time. I can’t wait to hold you in my arms. I may never let you leave them again.
35
Gracie
Someone shakes me awake again. Oh no, was I having another nightmare they seemed to go away after we found out the truth.
“Gracie wake up we need to get ready or we’ll be late for our hair appointments,” I hear Hope say. I open my eyes and smile, today’s the day. The day I’ve been dreaming about since meeting Ashton Tristan Daniels. My wedding day, and the day Ash returns home from his training. I don't know what I'm more excited for, becoming his wife or just being able to see, and kiss him. I’m so proud of him. The separation has been rough since we've been inseparable the rest of the school year but he did it, he joined the Air Force and finished basic training, and graduated tech school. Now he's off to his first duty station. He won’t tell me where it is though he wants to surprise me. I’m hoping it's somewhere far away from here and warm. I’m ready to start our lives, get away from all the drama that resides here like a bad smell. Turning and leaving to get me some coffee Hope slams my door. I jump out of bed, quickly throw some sweats on and take a Xanax to calm my nerves before Hope can bombard me again.
Walking out of the condo I turn to lock up and see a white limo pulling up out front. What? Looking at Hope she just smiles and winks before climbing in. I see she has my bags packed and my dress on the opposite side of the limo. When did she put those there? “Hope, did you do this?”
“Girl, I love you but no this is a bit much for my wallet. This was all your man. Now shush let’s have a glass of champagne and go to our next surprise.”
Who am I to turn down a glass of champagne. Accepting the glass I take a few sips. I smile, he knows me so well it's a premixed mimosa with my favorite peach juice instead of orange. Sitting back and relaxing for the drive, I have no idea where we are going, but if I know Ash I’m going to enjoy it. About forty-five minutes later we pulled into a gorgeous resort. I thank the driver and Hope takes my hand and turns me to face her.
“Okay, so this is where you guys are getting married, and spending the night, but Ash planned us a little relaxation at the spa beforehand so let's go get our relaxation on.”
Laughing at her antics, I follow after her.
The spa is amazing. They even did my hair and makeup that man spoils me. There’s a knock on the door and I hear Hope rush before I can get it.
“Ashton Tristan Daniels I know you’re not trying to sneak a peek at the bride, you know it’s bad luck.”
“Never Hope, I’m a good boy but I would like to hand her this so if I promise to keep my eyes closed may I?”
“Eyes closed Ash, yeah I don’t trust you. I know all your tricks.”
Turning him around I see her pull a blindfold out of thin air. What the hell! Where did that come from? She puts it over Ash’s eyes, making him laugh.
“I guess I’m not the only one having a good night tonight,” Ash says. Oh god is that for Dom?
“Oh hush you. Gracie, come here. I swear Ash if you somehow peek I’m going to beat you. My girl looks amazing, and there will be a photographer present when you see her for the first time.” Carefully getting off the chair I shuffle towards Ash. He looks incredible in his Air Force blues. I’m sorry I can't help myself. Getting on my tippy-toes, I place a soft kiss on his lips making him gasp, but before we can continue I feel Hope pull me back. “Bad Gracie, should I have used my rope to restrain you too. Behave!” Oh dear lord, way too much information. I shake my head no with my eyes practically bulging from my head as she releases me. I step towards Ash again and gently take the box from his hand.
“I wish I could see you, you smell delicious.”
“Soon Ash,” I tell him softly. I open the box and gasp. Wow. Inside is the most gorgeous bracelet that matches my engagement ring. “Thank you Ash, it’s beautiful. May I please kiss him Hope?” I turn to her pleading, she just rolls her eyes.
“One, then Ash you need to leave.” I move closer to him once again, bu
t this time he grabs my hips and tugs me flush to him. He gives me one hell of a kiss. Hey she said one—didn't say it had to be quick.
“Enough! You guys are horrid, Ash leave. You can give Dom that blindfold.” She shoves him out of the room then slams the door and turns to me. We admire the bracelet for a moment then Hope grabs my wrist to help me put it on.
I look into the mirror and don’t even recognize myself—and this time it's not due to memory loss. I’m dressed in a strapless sweetheart-neckline cream colored dress with a lace overlay and small peach colored flowers in the train. I look like a princess. I decided to not do a veil instead I have a tiara from Tiffany’s and my hair is half up with ringlets. They did my makeup light, really playing up my eyes. Wow I can't wait for Ash to see me.
I walk down the aisle to the man of my dreams. I'm so thankful for the waterproof makeup. I can feel my eyes already getting wet. Dom tugs on my arm. I realize I’m practically running down the aisle to Ash. I look into his eyes and get lost, placing my hands in his, we face the minister. Exchanging traditional vows and rings, I can't help but start to shake with excitement.
We’re standing at the altar when the church doors slam open. Looking over my shoulder I see Gray. He looks awful. Even wearing a suit you can tell he hasn't showered or shaved in a few days. He walks down the aisle to sit in the pew on the bride's side. I start to shake harder, this time with anxiety, I should have taken another Xanax. It’s bad enough my parents didn't come. I can't handle this today. It’s supposed to be the best day of my life. I’m marrying the love of my life, my soulmate. I will not have him ruin this. I get ready to tell him to leave but Ash beats me to it. “I’m sorry father can you give me a moment?” He kisses my hand then takes off towards Gray. Not knowing if I should let him handle it or follow, I just turn around and watch. I feel a hand wrap around mine and look up. Dom’s there. “Let him Bambi, today is your day. Let Ash go all groomzilla on his ass.”
Knowing he’s right I watch him grab Gray by the arm and pull him towards the door while whispering to him loudly. I can imagine what he’s saying. Finally Gray looks back at me with such despair in his eyes, mouths I love you, I’m sorry, then turns and leaves. Ash waits a few moments to make sure he’s not going to try and sneak back in before he runs down the altar to me.
“Okay father, I’ve been waiting a long time to hear you say these last words so …”
The minister chuckles at my almost husband before saying, “I now pronounce you husband and wife.” He pauses a moment giving me a wink as I watch Ash start to get impatient. “Okay Ash, you may now kiss your bride.” He grabs me and kisses me so hard, so passionately I can’t breathe, then pulls away and says, “finally doll, you're all mine. Forever and on.”
The reception flies by with incredible food, and I dance way too much my feet hurt, but there is still something I need to do. I pull Ash up Willows Creek Cliff where this all started and feel a bit of peace wash over me. I look up at the sky. Mia I don’t know if you can hear me. I like to think you're in Heaven looking down on us.
Even though you tried to end my life you were still my best friend, my sister and no one could replace you as my maid of honor. I miss you Mia, and I'll always love you.
I shuffle closer to the edge with my bouquet.
“Careful Gracie, I don't think you will survive a fall like that a second time,” my husband, Ash says. Eeekkk my husband. I turn back towards him and smile, then return to the edge of the cliff. I can barely see the bottom where they found us, were up so high. I take a deep breath and let go of my wedding bouquet. “This is for you sis, wish you could have been there today,” I say quietly to the wind, then turn back around and grab Ash's hand. “Let’s go hubby, we have a future to start.”
Epilogue
Gracie
I close up the last box and take a look around. This bedroom has been through so many changes but I’ve never seen it so empty. Someone knocks on the door and I open it to a gaunt looking Gray. “Hey I know you don't want to see me but I just had to try one more time Gracie. I love you and I can't ever tell you how sorry I am for everything. I was selfish, and conceited. I see that now. I should have told everyone the truth from the beginning. It would’ve prevented a lot of heartache. I am so sorry Gracie. You were my best friend, and on top of the divorce and not seeing Annabelle, not being able to talk to you hurts. I know you leave today to start your life with Ash, but do you think maybe we could text? Mom and Dad just decided to up and leave. You’re the only family I have,” he says, breaking down into sobs. He looks awful. I thought when I saw him at the wedding he looked all out of sorts but now his skin is pale, his clothes look two sizes too big, and he doesn't look like he has showered in days. I pity him. I used to look up to him, depend on him. It’s extremely sad. I take a deep breath in then touch his shoulder. He’s shaking. “Gray, I honestly don’t know. I need time. You may text me but I can't give you an answer as to if I’ll reply. I need space, I’m doing okay but I'm not one hundred percent. I understand you’re going through some things as well, but I can't be the one you depend on to fix you. You need to fix yourself. Call Dr. Pepper, she can help. I love you, you’re my big brother but you hurt me in a way that I would have never thought you would be capable of.” I check my phone—I have to leave within the next twenty minutes or I’ll miss my flight. I will not miss my flight. I miss my husband more than I thought was possible. It’s been three months since I kissed him goodbye and watched him board that flight to Las Vegas, NV so he can get our home and cars settled before I come. I planned on arriving a month after him but I’m really struggling with the loss of my baby and my therapist didn't think it was a good thing to leave her so soon. “I need to get going Gray. I have a flight to catch. Will you do me a favor? This box here is going to the children’s home. It has some items they can use, and I put a cooler of baked goodies on the bottom. Will you drop them off for me?” Looking at the box he nods his head.
“And one more thing, take a shower before you go.”
“Okay Gracie I love you. Good luck out in Las Vegas I’m glad you and Ash found your way back to each other.”
Yeah I’m not having this heart to heart right now. I grab my purse from the bed, make sure I have my phone charger, and pills then I swing my duffle bag over my shoulder and head down the stairs. I don’t look back even though I can feel his eyes on me. I don’t know what will happen between us, but for now this is all I can handle. I open the front door to my Uber waiting and hand my bag to the driver as he opens the trunk for me. Once buckled I open my bag and pop a Xanax. Just one it will help with the flight. I’m exhausted. I rest my head on the seat and close my eyes for the short drive to the airport.
Once I'm through security I head to the lounge. Thanks to my super sweet hubby I’ve been upgraded to first class. He spoils me. I spend an hour getting pampered before boarding. I find my seat, buckle and lie back. I think it may be naptime. I feel fantastic. The massage and my pills have kicked in. I'm out before the stewardess can even offer me my meal.
Feeling the plane descend wakes me from an amazing nap. I may have even drooled a little, oh well. I can’t wait to see Ash. I follow the ramp off the plane and see the love of my life standing there with flowers. I drop my bags then run to him jumping into his arms. He grabs me and kisses me until I see stars. “God I’ve missed you Gracie. You’re never leaving me again.” Kissing him again I just nod my head in agreement. I don’t know how long we stay there, but all too soon he sets me on my feet, grabs my hand, throws my bag over his shoulder then leads me out into the desert heat. With everything we have been through I hope we can finally start our happily ever after.
Anonymous
You looked right at me and smiled I guess dyeing my hair, and the plastic surgery worked to hide my identity. Can't wait to surprise you baby. I don't care if you're married now. Did you really think I would let you leave me? I got the cutest little condo just five minutes from your place and a job near your who
re so I can watch her.
If you thought this was over you couldn't be any more wrong this is just the beginning. You’re mine Ashton Tristan Daniels and always will be.
I’ll see you later my love.
THE END!!!!
Acknowledgments
Whew talk about a wild ride right? This book came to me as a spur of the moment idea. I never expected it to get this far, but I fell in love with my characters, and I hope you did as well.
That said I would have never gotten this far without my beta girls, and author friends.
I don’t know what to say, you girls are my rocks, total superstars. Thank you so much for standing by me and answering my insane questions even at two am. Have to love being on different continents.
This book would have never been as incredible as it is without you all.
Amara, Libby, Hope, and Heather my beta girls. Thank you for sticking with me, and giving me the encouragement to keep writing. Also Hope, thank you for all the amazing teasers!!
Hannah & Ali D-
I never would have started without your encouragement. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I’m so glad I found some forever friends in you both. Also Hannah, thank you for my cover. I absolutely love it, and for formatting my book. This book literally wouldn't be a book without your help. I can’t thank you enough!!
Tami, Crystal, Letty, and Chrissy thank you for your notes, and feedback just the thought of some of my all-time-favorite authors reading my book has me totally freaking out! You guys are incredible and I hope someday to be as good as y’all.
