The Affectionate Player - Part2

Chapter 25

"And I succeeded for a while until I met her a second time, though neither of us realised until yesterday we'd shared that brief encounter in the park. So when I failed once more to allow myself freedom, it was Gracie who gave me renewed hope. I owe all that I have to this wonderful woman, and I will spend the rest of my life devoted to making her happy."

"Well said, buddy!"

"Cheers, Rudi. Now to quote a line from one of my favourite movies... 'Remember Red, hope is a good thing, maybe even the best of things, and a good thing never dies.'

"Family and friends, would you now stand one last time and raise your glasses to my gorgeous wife, Mrs Gracie Jacob, and to the best of good things." Charging their glasses a sea of people had stood reciting Max's words in toast, and sitting once more beside me I'd placed my hand in his.

"I'd no idea, Max."

"Me neither. I'd never have guessed the woman I met that day was you until you mentioned it yesterday. The Dalmation, Gracie, your blond hair and you were wearing a Sussex Uni T-shirt that was way too big."

"God! I'd forgotten about my hair," I'd laughed. "Andy always liked it that way but I changed it back after a few months."

"I can't believe it was you. Those two summers were the making of me."

"No, baby. They might have spurred you on and given you hope but your children are the making of you. I see the way you love them, the way they respond to your every word like you're their hero. And you are, as you are mine. They adore you. We all do."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

"I didn't ever forget you, Gracie."

"I know. I'm sorry I can't say the same."

"You lost your baby girl, love. You'd more to think about than the geeky, bald guy in the park."

"Yes, I did."

"Yes, you did."

"It seems you have loved me a lifetime, Mr Jacob."

"My first love, and my last."

"May I quote from one of my favourite movies?"

"Of course," he'd smiled, pleased.

"'In case I forget to tell you later, I had a really good time tonight.'" Grinning widely, he clinks his glass to mine.

"Here's to the best damn date we've ever had."

****************

"I know you asked me to choose two songs, Gracie, and until yesterday I'd nailed it but in light of recent events I've squeezed in another one. I hope you don't mind."

"I've grown used to your last minute changes, husband. By all means, bring it on." Relieved he holds my fingers to his lips just as the DJ calls us to the floor.

A strumming banjo plays ahead of a soft voice, enchanting lyrics relaying a love story. Leading us Max reverently sings adjusting words to reflect Romeo's stance, and as if on ice he glides us with smooth and perfect steps. It's incredibly sweet mirroring our bond; so simply versed yet at times so painful to live. As the next song fades in the music shifts to a slower pace, the unforgettable George Michael delivering a moving rendition of, 'The First Time Ever I saw Your Face'.

His oceans are fixed as they study me, his deft fingers caressing my cheek and hair as he tends to a curl that's teased its way free. Smiling my approval he pulls me to his chest and stroking my back we gently sway lost in the beauty of the song. As it nears its end the DJ once more congratulates us inviting our guests to join in.

Booming from the speakers Max's final choice has everyone in full swing and accepting the irony I dance along to 'What Makes You Beautiful'. Glancing his way Max is singing his heart out draping an arm over Rudi's shoulder while the other repeatedly points at me. Giggling at the pair I shake my head as Willie joins them.

In all the time I've known this extraordinary man I can't recall at this moment ever seeing him so relaxed. With his beard trimmed short and his curls a little wild he looks desperately hot in his black tuxedo and from out of nowhere desire unfurls prompting me to check the time. Turning from the clock my eyes settle on Max; instinctively he senses my yearning and is already breaking free from the boys. Sauntering towards me I catch my breath causing a chuckle to escape his lips.

"You're up to no good, Mrs Jacob."

"Am I?"

"You know you are," he grins.

"I feel a little hot suddenly, perhaps I need to cool down."

"Oh no you don't! That's exactly how I want you to feel, but I'd very much like to be the cause of what's putting the colour into your cheeks."

"Is that an indecent proposal, husband?"

"You like calling me that, don't you."

"I do." Fluttering my eyelids mockingly I follow with a subtle wink.

"What would you say, wife, is an acceptable time to leave our own wedding?"

"Oh, I think we'd get away with a few more songs."

"That soon?"

"I'm counting on it, baby."

"Great! Why don't we grab the kids for a twirl, let them say goodnight and then we'll make a start on the rest of our goodbyes?"

"Sounds like a plan. I'll let mum know."

"I still can't believe your parents are taking them to a hotel."

"They want to give us as much privacy as they can."

"I think it's an amazing idea. I can't wait for us to be alone."

"Me too, but I do wish you'd send the security team home."

"Gracie love, you know my feelings on that." In attempt to sway him I allow my fingers to slowly creep up his crisp white shirt and into the curls at the nape of his neck.

"Please baby, it's been such a wonderful day."

"Gracie..."

"And no one unexpected has turned up. Weren't you going to stand them down tomorrow morning anyway? Isn't that what you told DI Brooks this afternoon?"

"You were eavesdropping?"

"Well you were standing beside me in the line-up."

"And you were supposedly talking to Martha."

"I was multi-tasking. I've become an expert since having our daughter."

"Hmph.

"And I've been thinking. How are we meant to go skinny dipping if there's a chance someone might see us?"

"Come again?" His startled expression confirms I am winning.

"Skinny dipping. You know, when people swim naked. Together."

"You're not serious."

"Oh, but I am! It's been on my bucket list since dad built the lake. I mean where else could I do it? Certainly not on holiday."

"What else is on that bucket list?"

"You'll find out soon enough. Husband."

"Are you playing games with me?" He smirks knowingly, tempting me to flirt further.

"I won't lie. I'll pretty much say anything right now for us to have the place to ourselves but I promise I'll deliver. Anything you want, baby."

"I'm not promising anything." He whispers uncertain, swigging from his beer.

"Oh, we'll see about that."

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