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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:06:36 GMT -5
American Idol
Love Is A Song
Book 5
Ever, Ever, After
Los Angeles- May 2012
Nineteen-year-old Sundae Wahlberg stood looking up at a tan two story building trying to psyche herself up to go in. “Never thought I’d be back here again,” she mused, “The old ‘Idol’ studios.” Sundae was a young singer and musician with a few songs to her credit, both in writing and vocals. Her dad been in the business since before she was born and helped her get her start early on with TV talent shows. One of these had been the uber popular ‘American Idol’ and she had performed on the show and with its accompanying tour, for several years. She had left when she’d turned sixteen, the minimum age to compete on the show, to focus more on her own music and, while she’d kept in touch, she hadn’t been back for a visit since. Now she was there to act as a mentor for the current crop of ‘Idol’ contestants and she knew she’d be facing a lot of memories in the process. She took another deep breath and looked up at the studio building again. “Well, it’s now or never,” she said and walked over to the building. She showed a pass that had been mailed to her to the guard at the door and then made her way inside. Just inside the door she found herself in a long and very familiar corridor. This corridor led to the main stage, known as the Idol Dome, and also to rehearsal rooms and dressing rooms. She walked along looking around her and letting her mind relive all the times she’d been there. She could almost hear the echoes of her laughter and that of all the past contestants she had been friends with. As she neared the stage entrance she noticed a display on the wall that was new since she’d last been there. It was a display of portraits depicting past ‘Idol’ top twelves and, beneath them, individual portraits, of the most successful contestants from each season. She looked at all the pictures, finding the faces of old friends; Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry, and even Jordin Sparks, with whom she was still best friends. When her gaze found the portrait of the season seven top twelve she had to choke back a lump in her throat. Of all the seasons she had been a part of the show, season seven was the most special to her. She looked down at the solo portraits beneath the group one. There were three for the seventh season, two guys and a girl, all of them people Sundae had been close to. The first showed a man in his mid twenties with a scruffy rocker look to him. This was David Cook, the winner from the seventh season. He had had success with his first album, but when he had branched out into songwriting his career really took off. He was now one of the most sought after songwriters in the industry. The second portrait was of a young, African American woman in her early twenties who could easily have been called a diva. This was Syesha Mercado, the season’s third place finisher. She had had two successful R&B albums had also given Broadway a go. She was now a hit in a new production of ‘The Color Purple’ and had many producers eyeing her for roles in their musicals. The last picture made the lump come back to Sundae’s throat. It was of a young man in his late teens. He had black spiky hair, a fresh sweet face and the most beautiful hazel eyes Sundae had ever looked into. This was David Archuleta, season seven runner-up. Even though he has finished second, he was far and away the most successful of his season and one of the most successful of all the seasons. He had three platinum albums, numerous platinum singles, and every major award in the industry to his name. Even with all this success, David had remained as sweet and humble as he had been before ‘Idol’. He was still the same amazing guy Sundae remembered…and was still in love with. Sundae had first met David when he had auditioned for ‘Idol’ and the mutual instant attraction they had shared had blossomed into her first real love. Her gaze then fell on the ring she wore on her right ring finger, a gold band with a diamond and a blue topaz entwined on top. It had been a gift from David, a promise of his love. He had given it to her just a few months before he had left to serve a mission for his church. They had kept in touch for a little while after he’d left, but had lost contact by the end of the first year. It had now been a little over two years since he’d left, but Sundae had kept the ring, just as she had kept his promise in her heart. She brushed a tear from her cheek and started to turn away from the pictures. “Sundae? Is that you?” a male voice suddenly asked. Sundae turned around to see a man in his late thirties with spiky, dish blonde hair and light blue eyes watching her with an amused smile. “Hey, Ryan, long time no see,” she said, smiling at ‘Idol’ host, Ryan Seacrest. “Too long. How’ve you been?” Ryan asked as he walked up to her and offered a hug, which she accepted. “Can’t complain. I’m keeping busy with school and music,” Sundae said. “Shouldn’t you have graduated by now?” Ryan asked. “Yeah, last year. I’m at UCLA now,” Sundae replied. “Wow, and now you’re back here for our special ‘Music of Past Idols’ week,” Ryan said. ‘Idol’ had a different theme for the contestants to pick songs from each week and that week was a special one dedicated to songs performed by past contestants. “Yeah. ‘Idol’ gave me a lot, so I thought I’d do this as a thank you,” Sundae said. “Bringing back memories being here?” Ryan asked as they started to stroll down the corridor toward the stage and the dressing rooms. “A lot of memories. I almost feel like there’s old ghosts all around me,” Sundae said. “You make it sound spooky,” Ryan joked. She giggled lightly. “It’s not like it’s haunted or something. It’s just…there’s stuff that hurts a little to remember,” she said, her tone softening at that last. “Mmm. So, are you staying at the dorms at UCLA? I thought your parents moved when they retired a couple years ago,” he said. “I’m still at the house. Dad let me stay after I graduated and I have two of my younger siblings and three friends rooming with me, so it works,” Sundae said. “And where’d your folks and the rest of the family move to?” Ryan asked. “They’re in Utah, a little town just outside of Park City. My mom wanted quiet and nature and she got it,” Sundae said. “Utah? Huh. I would’ve thought you’d go with them in a heart beat if that’s where they are,” Ryan said. Sundae took a shaky breath, knowing what he was driving at. David lived in Murray, Utah, a suburb of the state’s capital, Salt Lake City. “That’s in the past, Ryan. Now, can you tell me if I have my old dressing room or is there somewhere else I should be going?” she asked, changing the subject. She had always had her own dressing room when she had been a regular performer on the show. Ryan was thrown for a minute, but quickly caught up. “Yeah, you’re in your old room and you’ll meet your co-mentor, and this year’s kids, at rehearsals later,” he said. “Co-mentor?” Sundae asked, curious. “Yeah, one of the former ‘Idols’. I might know who it is, but I’ve been told not to say anything to anyone,” Ryan said. “Even me?” Sundae asked, surprised. “Yeah, even you. The new producers are really strict. But what’s there to worry about? You know all the former ‘Idols’,” he replied. “True. Well, I do know it can’t be Jordin,” Sundae said. “How do you know that?” Ryan asked. “She’s one of my roommates. She would’ve told me,” Sundae said. “Really? She’s one of your roommates?” Ryan asked. “Yeah, we are BFFs. She’s working on her next album and I’m letting her stay at mine to save on apartment expenses,” Sundae said. “Very frugal,” Ryan said. Sundae laughed a little. “We try,” she said. She then looked up and saw the door of her old dressing room a few feet away from her. “Well, I’m going to go get settled. It was great seeing you, Ryan,” she said. Ryan smiled. “You too and, by the way, may I say that you look incredible,” he said. Sundae laughed again. “Thanks, Ry. You look great, too,” she said. “Well, I don’t like to brag…” Ryan said and trailed off, striking a model pose for a moment. He had always been good-looking and always stylishly dressed in designer suits and ties. He chuckled, breaking the pose. “I’ll see you later, Sundae,” he said. She smiled. “See ya,” she said and headed for her dressing room. “Oh and tell Jordin hello from me,” Ryan added. “Will do,” Sundae said over her shoulder. As she walked in she found everything just as she remembered it, the dressing table with the lights around the mirror, the little coffee table and couch and even the mini fridge, which she found stocked just like she liked it with healthy snacks and drinks. She put the small duffle she carried on the couch and then turned to the mirror, looking at her reflection. Since her last season on ‘Idol’ she had grown from a pretty teen into a beautiful young woman. Her long brown hair was slightly shorter now, down to just past her shoulders, and still had its long, layered bangs. She had gotten a little taller and now had graceful curves where a young girl’s body had once been. She straightened the designer baby tee and skinny jeans she wore and smoothed her hair back before stepping back out into the corridor and heading for the rehearsal rooms. She still had nearly an hour before she had to meet that year’s hopefuls, but she wanted to have a few minutes alone in the rehearsal room. She had liked doing the same thing when she had been part of the show and she’d found that her creativity just flowed when she was alone in that room. She reached the door a moment later and went in. The rehearsal room was also just as she remembered it, wide and open with a small window, a grand piano and chairs. She walked over to the piano, sat down on the bench and lifted the cover off the keys. She brushed her fingers over the smooth ebony and ivory, more memories coming to the fore of her mind. One memory with David that had happened early on in his season jumped out loud and clear.
Flashback: Season 7 Top Eleven Week Fourteen-year old Sundae and seventeen-year-old David were the first to get to the rehearsal studio that particular day. They had gone straight there after their school classes, hoping to tinker around with a little song writing, before rehearsals started. Once in the studio, they sat at the piano and started messing around, playing little bits and pieces of tunes. “How long have you played for?” Sundae asked. “I started learning just before Star Search. What about you?” he asked. “Geesh, I think I started when I was seven, but I can’t really remember. I always had more of an interest in guitar, anyway,” she said. “It shows. You were great in rehearsals yesterday,” David said, blushing lightly. Sundae smiled. “Thanks. It showed with you, too, when you played piano a couple weeks ago,” she said. He nodded, blushing even more. “I didn’t think it was too good. I was nervous the whole time,” he said. Sundae took a deep breath as she reached out and touched his cheek, making him look over at her. “That was just the first time you tried. It was scary for me the first few times I tried playing while performing. I was always afraid I’d mess up a chord or something, but it got easier each time and it’ll get easier for you, too. Besides, I don’t know very many other ‘Idols’ who’d try using an instrument. The fact that you did and that it sounded amazing, is a big accomplishment,” she said. She blushed then and pulled her hand away. She wondered when he stayed quiet for a moment, but she didn’t dare look up. A moment later he took hold of her hands and she turned toward him, blushing again at the smile on his face. He then lifted one hand, cupping it under her chin, and drew her to him. Their lips brushed together for a moment, softly and sweetly. Both their faces were a little red when they drew back from the kiss. “Thank you, for saying those things,” he said after another moment. She smiled. “You’re welcome,” she said. They gazed at each other for a moment and then he turned back to the piano. “Would you like to hear something?” he asked, laying his fingers on the keys. “Whatever you feel like playing,” she said. He smiled a little and, after a moment’s thought, started to play. She smiled and leaned her head on his shoulder, her eyes sliding shut as she listened to the pure sound of his voice.
Oh thinking about all our younger years…
End Flashback
Sundae sighed at the memory. It seemed like so long ago, her and David sharing little moments like that, but it was part of what made her love him and something she’d give anything to have back. She looked down at the keys again and this time she laid her fingers on them and started to play a song he had written for her a year after their ‘Idol’ days.
Mmm, yeah, yeah, yeah Can you imagine what would happen If we could have any dream? I’d wish that this moment was ours to own it And that it would never leave Then I would thank that star That made our wish come true Cause he knows that where you are Is where I should be, too Sundae took a shaky breath as the memories came rushing through her mind.
Right here right now I’m looking at you and my heart loves the view Cause you mean everything Right here I promise you somehow Tomorrow can wait for another day to be But right now there’s you and me “Sundae?” a male voice questioned from behind her. She nearly jumped a mile, having thought she was alone in the room. “Don’t you know how…” she started to say as she whirled to face the voice, but as soon as she was completely facing him she lost her breath. She cupped her hand over her mouth in shock. “D-David?” she gasped out once she was able to breathe again. He smiled. “Hi,” he said, sounding a little shy. “W-what are you…wait. Are you here to…” she started to ask. “Mentor this week?” he finished and she nodded. “Yeah. I think Ryan has some explaining to do,” he said and then slowly stepped toward her. As he approached, Sundae took a good look at him. He had grown up, too, over the last two years, from a good-looking teenager into the most handsome man she’d ever seen. He’d gotten a little taller, now standing about 5’8” and a half, and he had also filled out more. She could clearly see his well-toned body through the fitting tee shirt he wore. He sat beside her on the piano bench and she let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding in. “I can’t believe you’re here. How long have you been back?” she asked. “A little over a month,” he replied. Sundae was surprised and she felt her heart dip a little. “Oh,” she said. He sighed. “Dae, I wanted to find you as soon as my plane landed, but my family wanted to see me and then I had to clear up something with the church,” she started to turn away, but he gently grasped her shoulders, keeping her facing him, “You have been all I thought about these last two years,” he said. “Then why did you stop writing?” she choked out and she swiped at her eyes when she felt the tears coming. “I was moved to a place where there wasn’t any mail service, but I did keep writing and I have proof,” he said and got up from the bench. He went over to a duffle bag he’d left beside the door and retrieved several spiral bound notebooks from it and brought them over to her. She took one and opened it to find pages and pages of letters that he had written. Each one was dated and she could easily see that they picked up where their correspondence had left off and continued up through that day. She looked up at him, again feeling the tears brimming. He reached up and gently brushed away one that escaped. “I could never forget about you, Dae. You’re my whole world,” he told her. She picked up the notebooks and set them on the piano and then reached over and threw her arms around him, letting the tears fall. He didn’t even hesitate to pull her as close to him as he could. “I missed you so much,” she whispered. “I missed you, too, angel,” he murmured and she couldn’t help a smile hearing one of his nicknames for her. They held each other for a few minutes and then pulled back to look into each other’s eyes. They gazed at each other for a moment and then he slowly started to lean in. “Hello people! Let’s get this party started,” a new male voice suddenly said. Sundae and David looked up to see a group of five young people; two girls and three guys, coming into the room and guessed they were the current top five. Sundae quickly dried the last of her tears and grabbed the notebooks so they wouldn’t be messed with and set them on the floor under the piano bench. She then looked over at the current ‘Idols’, assessing them in her mind. The two girls were both very pretty. One was blonde with bright green eyes and the other was a petite Asian with long black hair. The three guys were about as different as they could get. The one that had spoken was tall with medium brown hair, a cocky grin and a preppy look to him. Next to him was an African American guy with short dreads and a bit of a street look. The last guy really grabbed Sundae’s attention, as he couldn’t have been any older than David had been during season seven. He was of average height with dish blonde hair and light eyes and he looked more than a little nervous. “You all must be this year’s top five,” David said then, getting her attention. The preppy guy grinned. “That’s us. Robbie’s the name and music’s my game,” he said and smiled almost cheekily at Sundae. She eyed him warily. “Nice to know,” she said and slid over a little closer to David. The blonde haired girl stepped forward. “Don’t mind Robbie. He’s still learning how to be human,” she said. Robbie looked at her. “I resent that, Miss Priss,” he said. “Hey! First rule in these sessions is we all get along, is that clear?” David said and Sundae was surprised by the firmness in his tone. Robbie and the girl nodded. “Sorry,” she said. “It’s alright just keep it in mind,” David said, his tone softening. The Asian girl stepped up next to the blonde. “I guess the rest of us should introduce ourselves. I’m Leilani. This Sabrina,” nodding to the blonde, “That’s Deshawn,” nodding to the African American guy. “And this is Richie,” Sabrina finished patting the youngest guy on the shoulder. “He’s a little shy,” she added, almost as an after thought. Sundae smiled. “I don’t think that’ll be a problem. I’m Sundae Wahlberg and this is David Archuleta. We’re here to help you with your songs for this week,” she said. “Sounds good,” Deshawn said. “Who’d like to go first?” David asked. “We already drew straws for the order and Leilani got first,” Sabrina said. “Alright then if the rest of you will wait in the hall, we’ll do this one at a time,” Sundae said. The ‘Idols’ nodded and Sabrina, Robbie, Richie and Deshawn went out into the hall to wait their turns. One by one each of the ‘Idols’ presented their songs to Sundae and David. Leilani had chosen Carrie Underwood’s ‘All American Girl’, Sabrina had picked Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Breakaway’, Deshawn had picked David Cook’s first single ‘Light On’ and Robbie, to some surprise, had also picked Kelly Clarkson, ‘Because Of You’. Each one showed why they had made it that far in the competition and each put their own spin on their song choice. The last to take his turn was Richie and he looked even more nervous as he came into the room. “Hi, Richie, right?” Sundae said to him. “Yeah, that’s me,” Richie said as he approached the piano. Sundae noticed his trembling pace and the sheet music clenched tightly in his hand. “You don’t need to be nervous, Richie,” she said. Richie let out a breath and managed a small smile. “So, what song did you pick?” David asked. “Well, I uh…I picked…” Richie stumbled slightly on the words and finally just handed over the sheet music he held. David took it and both he and Sundae had to smile when they saw what song it was. Richie had picked David’s first hit single ‘Crush’. David looked over at the nervous teen. “Thank you, Richie. I’m honored that you’d pick my song,” he said. Richie managed another small smile. “I picked it…to…to sing to my girlfriend. It’s kind of…our song,” he stammered. “Aww, that’s really sweet,” Sundae said. “Yeah and kind of a coincidence, too. I used to sing ‘Crush’ to Sundae all the time,” David said and Sundae smiled at the memory. Richie looked over at them in surprise. “You guys were…” he paused not sure how to finish the question. “We met here on ‘Idol’ when we were your age,” Sundae said. Richie nodded. “That’s cool,” he said. “Well, how ‘bout we hear how you sound,” David suggested and set the music on the piano rack. Richie nodded. “Okay, but before we start I just want to say I had no idea you’d be here, so if I sound lame, please don’t hold it against me,” he said, sounding nervous again. Sundae caught on to the implication. “You’re a fan, aren’t you?” she said, smiling knowingly. Richie nodded, letting out a big breath. “Oh yeah, you’re like my idol, Mr. Archuleta,” he said. David smiled. “Thank you, that means a lot, but we’re here to hear you right now, okay?” he said. “Okay,” Richie said, smiling a little more. David then started to play the song and Richie took a deep breath and started to sing.
I hung up the phone tonight Something happened for the first time deep inside It was a rush, what a rush Cause the possibility That you would ever feel the same way about me It’s just too much, just too much
Why do I keep running from the truth? All I ever think about is you You’ve got me hypnotized So mesmerized And I just got to know
Do you ever think When you’re all alone All that we could be Where this think could go? Am I crazy or falling in love? Is it really just another crush? Do you catch a breath When I look at you? Are you holding back Like the way I do? Cause I’m trying and trying to walk away But I know this crush ain’t going away Going away Richie paused after the first chorus and Sundae and David couldn’t help smiling. His strong tenor voice was outstanding, without a doubt, the best in the bunch. “Wow, Richie, you have an amazing voice,” Sundae said. “Yeah, you remind me a lot of me at your age,” David said. Richie blushed. “Thanks,” he said, modestly and Sundae smiled even more. The boy took a page from David in more ways than one. Sundae and David worked with Richie for a little while longer and then called the rest of the group in to run through the group song for elimination night, a medley of past ‘Idol’ hits. Rehearsal wrapped up just after four pm and the young ‘Idols’ were instructed to keep working on their songs and be prepared for more rehearsals closer to show night. After the ‘Idols’ had gone Sundae started to make ready to go. “Well, I should get a move on. I’ve got a couple errands to run on the way home,” she said as she stood up from the piano bench. “Dae, wait,” David said and jumped up from the bench as well. She turned toward him as he came up to her. “I um, I was wondering if maybe you’d like to have lunch tomorrow?” he asked. She smiled. “I’d like that,” she said, and he beamed. “Great. Can I pick you up or would you rather meet at the restaurant?” he asked. “Umm, it might be better if we met up. I don’t know that I want my roommates to know you’re back quite yet,” she said. “Your roommates?” he asked. “Dana, Cara and Jordin and my sister and brother Kimmie and Tom. They’d be all over me like ants if they knew,” she said. He chuckled. “Alright. I’ll make reservations and text you the details tonight,” he said. “Well, in that case you should have my new number. I’ve had to change it a couple of times,” she said and fished a piece of paper out of her purse and wrote down her number. As she handed it over she felt a sense of dejavu, remembering when she had first given him her number during Hollywood week of his season. The moment was pretty similar and she hoped it could lead to similar results. He smiled as he took the paper from her. “Thanks. Oh, one other thing,” he said and he then went and retrieved the notebooks from where they sat under the piano bench and brought them over to her. “I was hoping you’d read these,” he said. She smiled again. “Sure,” she said and took the notebooks from him. He then went and picked up his bag before turning to her again. “Can I walk you out?” he asked, holding out his hand to her. She blushed a little and smiled even more. “Of course you can,” she said, and took hold of his hand. They then stepped out into the hallway and headed out. They paused at her dressing room so she could get her bag and then continued toward the exit. “You know I was really impressed with how you handled things at rehearsal. I don’t remember you being that authoritative,” she said. “Thanks and you’re right that I didn’t used to be. Being on my own in a strange country made me wake up a lot and made me realize I couldn’t be the meek, shy kid anymore,” he said. “I kind of knew you would change a little while you were gone, but I didn’t really know what to expect,” Sundae said. He paused in his stride and turned toward her, looking into her eyes. “I’m still me, Dae. I’m just…more independent now, I guess,” he said. She smiled. “I can see that,” she said. They gazed at each other for a moment and then started off again. As they passed the right side of the stage, Ryan appeared again and grinned, almost knowingly, at the sight of them together. “See? What did I tell you, nothing to worry about,” he said. Sundae shook her head at him. “You have explaining to do, buster, and I’d suggest you start now,” she said. Ryan laughed. “Alright, alright. I didn’t say anything earlier, because I didn’t know if it would bother you guys to work together again. I know it’s been a while…” he trailed off, trying to figure out where to go next. David patted his shoulder. “It’s okay, Ryan. It was actually a really nice surprise,” he said, turning his smile on Sundae, who blushed. “Yeah, it was,” she agreed. Ryan grinned mischievously. “So, is it safe to assume you two will be picking up where you left off?” he asked. Sundae had to laugh at his dig for gossip. “Oh don’t even go there, Mr. TMZ. You’re not getting any scoops this soon,” she said. Ryan chuckled, too. “I just thought I’d try. Anyway, before you go the producers asked me to tell you that they’d like you two to perform together for the Wednesday show. You know we’ve made the elim shows shorter these last couple seasons,” he said. “Yeah, you can tell them we’re okay with it,” Sundae said. Ryan nodded. “Alright, will do. They’ll need to know what song you decide on by the weekend so they can get it cleared if necessary,” he said. As it was Thursday that gave Sundae and David two days to decide on their song. David nodded. “We’ll let them know,” he said. “Great. See you guys next week,” Ryan said and then stepped around them and headed off down the hall in the opposite direction. Sundae and David turned back toward the exit, but David suddenly stopped again and looked over at her. “You really don’t mind us doing a duet for the show?” he asked. “Not at all. I’ve missed singing with you,” she said, blushing a little at the last. He smiled. “Me, too,” he said. He then let his fingers twine with hers as they turned and headed out of the studio. Once outside they walked over to her car, a hybrid Ford sedan. “You got a Ford,” David remarked as they walked up to it. “Yeah, I finally got to try driving one for one of the videos in season eight and I really liked it. So, as soon as the sedan went hybrid I got one,” she said as she opened the front passenger door and put the notebooks on the seat. She then shut the door and went around to the driver’s side. “So, I’ll see you tomorrow?” she asked. He nodded. “Absolutely,” he said. She then opened the car door and started to get in. “Dae…” he said and she paused and turned to him again. He walked up and pulled her into a hug. “I really am glad I found you again,” he said. She smiled as she hugged him back. “Me, too,” she said. They held each other for a moment and he then stepped back. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” he said. “Okay,” she said and got into her car. She started up the engine and waved to him as she drove out of the lot, an amused smile on her face. Life had just gotten very interesting again.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:07:00 GMT -5
Chapter 2 Sundae arrived home half an hour later and found a black Ford mustang and a white Kia rio parked in the driveway. “Oh, good just Cara and Jordin. That’ll make things easier,” she mused as she parked her car, grabbed David’s notebooks and headed into the house. She quickly slipped upstairs to her room and put the notebooks on her bed for later. She then put away the rest of her stuff and headed back out into the hall. “Hey, you’re home,” a female voice said from behind her and she turned to see Jordin coming out of her room down the hall. “Hey Jor, how was your day?” Sundae said. “Pretty good. I managed to finish another song. How ‘bout you? How was it being back on ‘Idol’?” Jordin asked as they headed for the stairs. “It was…interesting. Ryan said to say ‘hi’ to you, by the way,” Sundae said. “He still the same?” Jordin asked. “Oh yeah. That man will never change in a million years. He was already trying to play TMZ with me,” Sundae said. Jordin giggled as they started down the stairs. “Yeah, same old Ryan. Hey, I’m dying to know, who’s your co-mentor? I heard it would be a former ‘Idol’,” Jordin said. Sundae bit her lip, unsure of whether to trust Jordin or not. When they reached the bottom of the stairs Sundae turned, grabbed Jordin’s hand and pulled her into the downstairs office. “What’s going on?” Jordin asked. Sundae turned toward her. “What I’m about to tell you does not go beyond this room. If any of the others find out you’re a dead woman,” she said. “Scout’s honor,” Jordin said and raised her hand in pledge for emphasis. “Okay. My co-mentor for the week…is David,” she said. Jordin’s eyes went wide. “OMG! As in your David?” she gasped. Sundae nodded. “That’s the one,” she said. “OMG! Dae that is so great. You’ve been missing him like crazy and now you’ll get to be with him again,” she said. Sundae sighed and leaned against the door. “That’d be nice…” she said. “But what?” Jordin asked. “We’ve been apart for so long. It’s just going to take some warming up to, I guess,” Sundae said. “You’re still in love with him, right?” Jordin asked. Sundae nodded. “So much,” she said. “Then why do you seem worried?” Jordin asked. Sundae shrugged. “I don’t know. Seems dumb, doesn’t it,” she said. “I don’t think so. It sounds to me like you’re a little scared of what you’ll find when you get close to him again,” Jordin said. “Well, we’re having lunch tomorrow so I’ll find out soon enough,” Sundae said. Jordin smiled. “You know I want all the details, right?” she said. Sundae laughed as they turned and left the office. “Sure, but remember it stays just between us for now,” she said. “You got it,” Jordin said. Sundae smiled. “Hey, where’s Cara? I saw her car out front,” she said. “She’s actually out. Ben picked her up earlier,” Jordin said as they made their way into the kitchen. “Seriously? Did you get to meet him?” Sundae asked. “Yeah, I did. He’s really nice and, girl, he is gorgeous. If things don’t work out with David…” Jordin started to say. Sundae laughed. “Don’t even go there,” she said as she went over to the fridge. As she dug out some leftovers Sundae thought about her lunch date and the possibilities that came with it. She realized that she’d give anything to have things be the way they were before David left. She missed being with him and she wanted more than anything to have that back.
The next day around eleven thirty Sundae headed out to meet up with David. He had picked a restaurant she knew, a cozy little diner off studio row, and she had dressed casually in skinny jeans and a three quarter sleeve top. She got to the restaurant a little after twelve fifteen and, after parking her car she made her way to the entrance. As she approached it she saw David waiting for her beside the door and she had to catch her breath. He, too, was casual in jeans and a fitting polo shirt, but even so he looked gorgeous. She almost felt like she had on their first few dates, nervous and excited all at the same time. She took a deep breath and walked over to him and he looked up as she approached. “Hey, you look great,” he said, smiling as she walked up. She blushed at the compliment. “So do you,” she said. He took her hand in his as they walked into the restaurant. The hostess greeted them as they came in and David gave her his name for their reservation. She checked her list and then grabbed two menus and led them to a table. They had gotten a table near the back of restaurant, much to Sundae’s relief. After the hostess had left Sundae started to look over her menu. “So, what’s been going on with you since…you know?” David asked. “Um well, I graduated last year and I’m at UCLA now. I haven’t decided on a major yet, but there’s a few I like,” she said. “Music’s one of them I’ll bet,” David said. She giggled lightly. “You know me too well. Music actually took me to Julliard for a couple months last year, but I just wasn’t feeling it so I came back,” she said. “You weren’t feeling Julliard?” David asked surprised. “I know, weird huh? It was just a little too classical for me. They were trying to push me into theatre. Much as I love Broadway I don’t think I want to perform there quite yet. I’m still making my way in the top forty and finding a label that works would be a start. You really lucked out with Jive,” Sundae said. “Yeah, that reminds me I heard you on the radio the other day. Can’t recall the name of the song, but it was great,” he said. She smiled. “Thanks, I’ve managed to put a couple out there. Not too many bites yet, but I’m still trying,” she said. “You’ll get there. Like you said you just need the right single,” he said. Sundae suddenly flashed back to the night of their first real date. It was during Hollywood week. They had decided to meet up at the hotel where he was staying to go to dinner at the restaurant there. She had run into one of the other contestants in the lobby while she was waiting for him and had mentioned the same thing about waiting for the right single to her. “Are you okay?” he asked, noticing her thoughtful expression. “Yeah, I was just remembering saying that once before, but I didn’t know you heard me,” she said. “That night we went to dinner at the hotel?” he asked. She smiled. “Yes, did you hear me without me realizing it?” she asked. “I saw you chatting with Alaina. I was just working up my courage to walk over when I heard you tell her about waiting for the right single. I thought it was very smart of you to say,” he said. She smiled even more. “Thanks, and by the way you weren’t the only one who was nervous that night,” she said. He looked at her in surprise. “You, too?” he asked. “Yeah. I liked you from the first time I saw you and I was really scared I’d do something to blow it,” she said. He reached over and took hold of her hand. “I felt the same way. I remember thinking ‘I have no idea how I got lucky enough to get this beautiful girl to go out with me, but I do not want to mess it up’,” he said. She gently squeezed his hand. “It wasn’t luck, it was you being your sweet self that I liked…that I still like,” she said, her tone softening a little on the last. He heard her, though, and smiled as they turned back to their menus. “So, how’s the rest of your family doing?” he asked. “They’re good. My parents retired last year, so they have more time with the little kids. And they finally got out of LA,” she said. “Where are they now?” David asked. “In Utah,” Sundae replied. David’s head jerked up at that. “Seriously?” he asked. “Yeah, they’re in a little town just outside Park City. When I came back to go to UCLA they let me stay at the house and Kimmie and Tom stayed with me so they could finish high school here,” she said. “So that’s how you have so many roommates. I kind of wondered,” David said. She nodded. “Yup. Jordin’s saving on an apartment, and Cara and Dana are saving the expense of living in the dorms. They’re both at UCLA, too,” she said. “It must be fun having your friends living with you,” David said. “It is for the most part. At least it’s a lot less crowded with only six of us there now,” Sundae said. “Yeah and now you don’t have the tweebs picking on you anymore,” he said. She laughed. “Actually, the tweebs aren’t so bad now. They’re all ten, so it’s not as bad as it was. It’s Pleshette that’s starting to get into the annoying stage. She’s almost five now,” she said. “Wow, five already…” he started to say, but their waitress coming up to their table interrupted the moment. The waitress took their orders and, once she’d left to get their drinks, Sundae and David turned back to their conversation. “So, where was I minute ago?” David asked and Sundae giggled. “We were talking about Pleshette and how big she’s getting,” she said. “Oh yeah, I can’t believe she’s almost five already. I’m still remembering her as a baby,” he said. “I know, I can’t get over it either. She’s already as mouthy as Destiny was at her age, so she’s getting scary,” Sundae said. David chuckled. “I’d imagine,” he said. “How’s your family?” Sundae asked. “They’re good. Claudia’s engaged, which we’re really happy about,” he said. “That’s awesome,” Sundae said. He nodded. “Yeah it is. As for the others, Daniel’s about to graduate and Jazzy and Amber are typical teenagers,” he said. “They driving your parents crazy?” Sundae asked. He laughed. “Not too bad yet, but they’ve still got a couple years to go,” he said. She giggled for a moment but then her expression softened and she gazed at him thoughtfully. “What?” he asked. “I’m just realizing how much I’ve missed being able to talk with you like this,” she said. He smiled. “I’ve missed it, too,” he said. They gazed at each other until Sundae looked away, a shy blush on her cheeks. “So, um, have you thought at all about what song you’d like to do next week?” she asked. He fished into his pocket. “Actually, I had a flash of inspiration yesterday, after seeing you, and I wrote this last night,” he said and handed over six pages of sheet music. She took it and looked it over, her eyes lighting up as she read it. “Wow, for being written in one night this is amazing,” she smiled and blushed lightly, “but then again, you wrote it, so it should be amazing,” she said. He nodded modestly, his own cheeks turning pink. “Thanks,” he said. She felt her heart swell watching him. His modest nature was one of the many things she loved so much about him. A thought came to her mind then and she took a deep breath. “By the way, I read some of your letters last night,” she said. “You did?” he asked. “Yeah, and I’m sorry about what I said yesterday. I thought when the letters stopped coming that maybe you’d stopped caring, but I know now that’s not the case,” she said. He gently took her hand in his. “I could never stop caring about you, Dae. You mean the world to me,” he said. She smiled at that, but before she could respond, their waitress came back then with their lunches and they settled into enjoy their meal. After they’d finished and paid for their meal, Sundae and David headed out of the restaurant and he walked her to her car. “I had a really nice time. Thanks for thinking of this,” Sundae said, turning to him as they reached her car. David smiled. “I’m glad you could join me,” he said. “So, I’ll see you Monday for more rehearsals?” Sundae asked. “Actually, I was hoping maybe we could get together over the weekend and work on the song. If you’re busy I understand,” he said. She smiled. “I’d love to,” she said. He beamed. “Great,” he said. “I’ll call over to the studio and make sure the rehearsal hall is free and I’ll call you tomorrow morning,” Sundae said. “Okay, I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “Me, too,” she agreed. He then leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Dae,” he said and then started to step away. She smiled even more. “See you,” she said and then turned and got into her car. She leaned back against the seat, reveling in the tingly feeling he had brought on when he’d kissed her. It was the same feeling she had always had with him, the feeling that had told her she was in love with him. She realized then that she was falling all over again and she knew she needed to let him know and soon. Over the weekend Sundae and David met up twice more to work on their song and they quickly arranged it into a duet. By Wednesday they both felt they were ready to perform it. On Wednesday afternoon they were back at the studio rehearsing the song with the band. A few extra backup singers had been brought in for the end part of the song and they went over that part a few times to make sure they had it.
Everyday Live everyday (Ohhh) Love everyday (Everyday) Live everyday (Oh everyday) Love everyday (Oh everyday)
D: Na na everyday S: Ooh yeah D: Everyday S: Everyday D: Yeah The band and backup singers applauded as the song finished. “Alright, I think we’ve got it. You guys sound better than ever,” bandleader, Ricky Minor said. “Thanks, Ricky, for all your help,” Sundae said. Ricky nodded. “My pleasure. We’ll see you guys tonight,” he said and then dismissed the band and followed them off stage. Sundae went over to where she’d left her things and grabbed a water bottle she’d brought. “Whew! I’d forgotten how much work ‘Idol’ rehearsals are,” she said as she took a swig from the bottle. “Yeah, that makes two of us,” David said. Sundae smiled and then started to gather up her things. “Well, I’m gonna run home and grab a snack and what I need for tonight,” she said. He came up to her as she was turning to go. “What?” she asked, seeing a look in his eyes that clearly said there was something on his mind. “Have dinner with me tonight?” he asked. She smiled. “I’d love to,” she said. He grinned. “I have a place in mind and it’s kind of fancy,” he said. Her smile grew and she reached up and gently touched his cheek. “Then I’ll wear something really nice,” she said. She then turned to go, but he again stopped her, this time pulling her to him. Before she could ask he leaned in and brushed his lips against hers. A burst of electricity rushed through her like she hadn’t felt since before he had left. She quickly responded to the kiss, moving closer to him and slipping her arms up around his shoulders. His arms went around her waist, holding her in the tender embrace she’d been yearning to feel for the last two years. “Whoa! We need to find somewhere else to practice,” a male voice suddenly said. Sundae and David pulled apart and spun around to see the young ‘Idols’ watching them. It was Robbie who had spoken. “Sorry, you guys, we were on our way out,” Sundae said and quickly grabbed her things. “Riiiiight,” Robbie said, only to be rewarded with a whack on the arm from Sabrina. “We’ll see you guys tonight,” Sundae said and turned and dashed backstage. “Dae wait,” she heard David call after her and she stopped to let him catch up to her. He came up to her and gently took her hand in his. “I’m so sorry about all that back there,” he said. She smiled. “It’s okay. It’s embarrassing that they walked in on us, but…I’m glad you did what you did,” she said. “You are?” he asked. She nodded. “I’ve missed that so much,” she said. The loving smile that came to his face was another thing she had been aching to see. He pulled her to him again and held her close. “I’ve missed it, too. I’ve been wanting to kiss you since I saw you in the rehearsal room last week,” he said. She held onto him for a few minutes and then finally let go and stepped back. Her hand lingered on his cheek for a moment. “I’ll see you in a little while,” she said. He turned his head and gently kissed her palm. “See you soon,” he said. She smiled and stepped away, knowing she needed to get home quickly enough to find something to wear for that night.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:07:26 GMT -5
Chapter 3 An hour and half later Sundae was in her dressing room finishing getting ready for her number with David. She had gotten a new dress over the weekend for the occasion, a pale lavender, spaghetti strap mini dress that hugged her every curve. She had decided to leave her hair down and was standing in front of her mirror brushing it out and trying to calm her nerves. “Come on, Dae, get a grip. You’ve sung with him before,” she said to herself. She jumped when she heard a knock on her door. “Come in,” she said and quickly put down her brush. The door opened and Ryan poked his head in. “You’re on next,” he said. “Thanks, Ry,” she said and then took a deep breath before starting for the door. “You’ll be fine, Dae, trust me,” Ryan said and patted her shoulder before turning and heading back to the stage. Sundae followed him and saw David chatting with the young ‘Idols’ in the holding area. She caught her breath as she gazed at him. He wore white slacks and a matching white jacket. The dress shirt he wore under the jacket matched her dress perfectly. To her he looked every inch an angel. She saw Ryan then, out of the corner of her eye, heading out onto the stage to introduce them and she made to follow him so she could get into position. As she passed David he turned and, seeing her, reached out and took hold of her hand. She turned to face him and he gently pulled her to him. “You look wonderful, Dae,” he said. She blushed. “Thank you, so do you,” she said. Just then they heard Ryan starting to announce them and they hurried over to the stage entrance. Sundae slipped out and went and joined Ricky on the bandstand and David came out a minute later and sat at a piano facing them. Ryan’s voice got their attention then. “This week we are very pleased to have as our mentors two ‘Idol’ favorites. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Sundae Wahlberg and David Archuleta with an original composition, ‘Everyday’,” he said and then made his way off the stage as the crowd applauded. Sundae took another deep breath, clutching the microphone in her hand and a moment later David started to play the song on the piano. When he started to sing all her nerves eased.
Once in a lifetime Means there’s no second chance So I believe that you and me Should grab it while we can Sundae stepped down from the bandstand and started toward David as she sang the next part. Make it last forever And never give it back David smiled at her as she walked up beside the piano.
D: It’s our turn and I’m lovin where we’re at Their voices blended together on the next part, sounding as though they’d never been apart.
T: Because this moment’s really all we have
D: Everyday of our lives S: Wanna find you there, S: Wanna hold on tight T: Gonna run while we’re young T: And keep the faith D: Everyday T: From right now T: Gonna use our voices and scream out loud S: Take my hand D: Together we will celebrate S: Celebrate T: Oh everyday David then got up from the piano as the band picked up playing the song. He grabbed his microphone and took hold of Sundae’s hand, leading her around the piano to face the crowd as they continued the song.
S: They say that you should follow D: And chase down what you dream S: But if you get lost and lose yourself D: What does it really mean? S: Oh, no matter where we’re going D: Ooh yeah, it starts from where we are T: There’s more to life when we listen to our hearts T: And because of you I’ve got the strength to start Sundae smiled at that last line. Even though it had only been a week, she already felt stronger that she’d been in months with David in her life again.
T: Everyday of our lives Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight Gonna run while we’re young And keep the faith Oh, everyday From right now Gonna use or voices and scream out loud Take my hand together we will celebrate S: Oh everyday
D: We’re taking it back We’re doing it here together S: It’s better like that And stronger now than ever D: We’re not gonna lose T: Cause we get to choose Just how it’s gonna be David gently pulled Sundae to him as the tempo of the song slowed. He gazed into her eyes and she blushed lightly at the intensity of his gaze as he tenderly sang the next part to her.
D: Everyday of our lives She returned his loving gaze and her tone matched it as she picked up the song.
S: Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight D: Gonna run while we’re young T: And keep the faith Keep the faith Here the backup singers joined in creating a choral-like sound.
T: Everyday of our lives Wanna find you there Wanna hold on tight Gonna run while we’re young And keep the faith Yeah, yeah, yeah Everyday from right now Gonna use our voices and scream out loud Take my hand Together we will celebrate Oh, everyday
C: Live everyday (Ohhh) Love everyday (Everyday) Live everyday (Oh everyday) Love everyday (Oh everyday)
D: Na na everyday S: Ooh yeah David gently drew Sundae to him again and their eyes met as they finished the song.
D: Everyday S: Everyday D: Yeah As the music faded and the crowd applauded, Sundae lowered her microphone and switched it to her other hand. She then reached up, laid her right hand behind David’s head and drew him down to her until their lips met. He responded instantly, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her as close to him as he could. When they finally broke the kiss, she stayed close to him, her arms around his shoulders. She then leaned up and whispered in his ear. “Promise me something?” she asked. “Anything for you, angel,” he replied. “Don’t ever leave again,” she murmured. He hugged her even tighter. “I promise. I love you, Dae,” he said and she felt her heart light on fire. “I love you, too. I always will,” she said. “I’m guessing you will be picking up where you left off,” Ryan’s voice suddenly said and they turned to see him walking up to them. Sundae looked up at David and could tell he was thinking the same thing she was. They were too happy to care what Ryan thought or said. “That was amazing, you guys. It’s good to have you back,” he said. “Thank you, Ryan,” David said. Sundae nodded in agreement and then she and David turned and bowed to the crowd. They then waved and headed off stage hand-in-hand. Once backstage David drew Sundae to him again, hugging her tightly. “So, I’ve made reservations for seven thirty,” he said. “That sounds wonderful,” she murmured, reveling in the warmth of his embrace. She looked up at him and he had to smile at the happy glow in her face. He gently brushed a stray lock of hair away from her face. “I never stopped loving you, Dae, and I never will,” he said. She beamed. “And I’ll never stop loving you,” she said. He then drew her closer and kissed her deeply. Her arms quickly wound around his neck and his slipped around her waist. It was a few minutes before they came apart for air. “Ooooh,” came the giggling voices from behind them. The two turned to see the young ‘Idols’ watching them, all with knowing grins. “Oh, don’t mind us,” Robbie said cheekily. Sundae merely giggled, too happy to care. She had the most important person in the world to her back in her life and she couldn’t have been more in heaven. Sundae and David were invited to stay and watch the rest of the show, which they did and, after it had ended they went to get ready for their dinner date. Sundae had chosen a black, spaghetti strapped mini dress and strappy black shoes. She got changed and then pulled her hair up in a French twist with loose strands on either side of her face and touched up her makeup. When she was ready she packed her bag and headed out to meet up with David. She found him chatting with Ryan in the hall and she had to catch her breath again when she saw him. He, too, had changed into a black suit and tie and he looked even more gorgeous than before. She took a deep breath before approaching. Ryan noticed her first and let out a low whistle. “Wow. Okay, you are definitely not a kid anymore,” he said. Sundae giggled lightly, but her attention was focused on David. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. “Wow, Dae…” he trailed off as he gazed at her. Ryan took his cue. “And I’ll be going. You two have a good night,” he said and stepped away leaving the young lovers alone. “You look so amazing,” David murmured, drawing Sundae close to him. “So do you,” she replied, her eyes locking with his. He leaned down and gave her a soft kiss and then slipped his arm around her as they started down the hall. They were a few yards from the exit when ‘Idol’ judges Randy Jackson, Kara Dioguardi, Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres appeared, also heading for the door. Kara was the first to see them. “Hey you two, it was so nice having you here this week,” she said. “It was nice being here, and good to see you guys again,” Sundae said. “Yeah, thank you for the opportunity,” David added. “We appreciate the thanks, but it’s the producers you owe it to,” Simon said. Sundae smiled. “Well then we owe them a phone call later,” she said. Randy chuckled. “You guys sure are decked out,” he commented. “Yeah, you both look terrific,” Kara added. Both Sundae and David smiled. “Thanks, we actually have dinner plans that we’re on our way to,” Sundae said. “Oh, well don’t let us keep you,” Simon said. “It’s alright. It was good seeing you guys,” David said. Kara smiled. “You guys, too,” she looked to Sundae, “Give me a call in a couple days and we’ll make plans for lunch,” she said. “Sure, will do,” she said. David then pulled her close to him again and they started to step away. “See you guys later,” he said. “Have a great night,” Randy said and Sundae and David nodded as they turned and headed out of the studio. As they stepped outside, Sundae turned to David again. “So, should I drive or did you want to grab a cab? What’s the plan?” she asked. “A little surprise,” David said and gently turned her around. She gasped when she saw a gleaming black limo sitting in wait. “Oh my…” she breathed. “I want this night to be special,” David said. She beamed and hugged him remembering how he’d said the same thing the night he’d taken her to his high school’s senior ball. “Just being with you makes it special,” she said. He gently kissed her forehead and then led her over to the limo. The driver held the door for them and they slid in and cuddled up to each other. “So, what restaurant are we going to?” Sundae asked as the limo pulled out of the studio parking lot. “That’s another surprise,” David said. Sundae giggled, happy just to be with him. They drove through the city for almost twenty minutes and when the limo pulled over Sundae looked out to find they were at one of the most expensive places on the Sunset strip. “Oh my goodness, David, this is too much,” she said as he helped her out of the limo. “Only the best for my princess,” David said. She beamed even more and let him lead her inside. There the hostess took his name and then scooped up two menus. “Follow me,” she said and led them through the main dining room. The restaurant lived up to its classy reputation. The main dining room was beautifully decorated and romantically lit with crystal chandeliers. Each table was covered with a silk cloth as were the chairs and each had a single candle and a vase with a single red rose providing atmosphere. Sundae was so caught up in admiring this that it took her a minute to realize they were being led all the way through the main dining room. She started to wonder until the hostess led them out onto a small private patio. She gasped when she saw what was there- a private table, lit by candlelight, sat waiting for them. There were rose petals scattered about and soft music was playing on the restaurant’s stereo system creating a very romantic scene. The hostess set the menus on the table and turned to them. “Your waiter will be with you shortly. Enjoy your meal,” she said and then went back inside. Once she was gone David came up beside Sundae and slipped his arms around her. “Do you like it?” he asked. She looked up at him. “You arranged this?” she asked. He smiled. “All for you,” he murmured. She turned in his arms and hugged him tightly. “You’re amazing,” she said. He held her for a moment and then pulled back and led her over to the table. The restaurant lived up to its reputation with its cuisine as well. Sundae and David enjoyed a delicious, three-course meal with an appetizer, a chicken and rice soup, and flavorful entrees. After they’d finished their main course, David pulled Sundae up from her chair and drew her into his arms as they began to sway along to the music playing over the outdoor speakers. “This has been such a perfect night,” Sundae murmured, tightening her grip around his shoulders. His grip tightened on her, too. “It’s perfect because of you,” he said as he trailed kisses across her forehead. He continued to trail kisses down the side of her head and down to her neck. “I love you, Dae,” he whispered as he kissed alongside her ear. “I love you, too,” Sundae murmured back and reached up and buried her fingers in his hair. He lifted his head and then leaned in, capturing her lips with his. They held each other close, but when they heard the patio door open they looked up to see their waiter coming out carrying two plates. “Your dessert. I’ll be back in a little while with your bill,” he said and set the plates on the table before disappearing back inside. Sundae turned back to David and he smiled. “Shall we see what he brought us?” he asked. She giggled and took hold of his hand. “Sure,” she said. He led her back to the table and she beamed to see that dessert was her favorite, cherry pie a la mode. “You remembered,” she said, smiling at David as they sat down again. “I could never forget,” he said. She smiled even more as they turned their attention to the dessert. Sundae and David finished their dessert and then sat together, enjoying the warm night. They stayed for an extra forty minutes after the waiter brought the bill before deciding to call it a night. They held each other close as they walked out to their limo and Sundae found herself wishing that the night would never end. “So, I guess we’ll go back to the studio and get my car,” Sundae said as the limo drove away from the restaurant. “Yeah, I wish it were different, but we only have the limo for another hour,” David said. She smiled. “It’s okay. This whole evening has been perfect. I’ll be happy to give you a ride to your hotel, if you like?” she said. “Sure,” David said, hugging her again. They arrived back at the studio a half hour later and there they picked up Sundae’s car and drove over to the Hyatt where David was staying. David turned to Sundae as she pulled her car into a guest parking spot. “Would you like to come up for a little while?” he asked. She smiled. “I’d like that,” she said as she shut off the car. They then got their bags and then walked into the hotel hand-in-hand. They rode the elevator up to the fourth floor and then went down the hall to David’s room. He was staying in what would amount to a suite. The room was two rooms, a bedroom and a living room, with a full kitchen and a full bathroom. “You can put your stuff in the bedroom if you want,” David said. “Alright, I’ll freshen up a little while I’m at it,” Sundae said. “You don’t need it,” he said. She beamed at him and went into the bedroom. There she set her bag on a chair near the door and then stepped into the bathroom to freshen up. She let her hair down from the twist and then slipped off her shoes to relieve her feet. She then left the bathroom, set her shoes and hair clip on her bag and then walked back out into the main room. There she found David setting a bowl of popcorn on the coffee table and picking up the remote. He had taken off his jacket and shoes and had loosened his tie and she had to smile, noting that he looked much more comfortable. He looked up as she approached him. “Hey, I thought maybe we could see if there’s a movie on or something,” he said. “Sounds good,” she said and joined him on the couch. He slipped his arm around her and she leaned into him as he turned on the TV. They surfed through the channels for a little while and finally settled on an old rerun of the Disney film ‘High School Musical’. Sundae smiled, remembering that Paula had once said that she and David could be like the two main characters in the film. A kiss on the top of her head brought her out of her remembrances and she looked up to see him gazing down at her. “What?” she asked. “Just admiring your smile,” he murmured. She smiled even more and cuddled closer to him as he kissed her forehead. “I was just remembering something Paula said at your audition,” she said. “My audition? As in for ‘Idol’?” he asked. “Yeah, she was just playing around, or at least I think she was, but she said that you and I could be like Troy and Gabriella,” she said, nodding toward the TV. He chuckled lightly. “I guess we kind of are. We met when we were teenagers and we both love music and it was music that brought us together,” he said. “Very true,” Sundae agreed hugging him again. “You know, they filmed this practically in my backyard,” David said after a moment. Sundae smiled. “Oh yeah, that’s right. It was filmed in Salt Lake and at your school, if I remember right,” she said. He nodded and they went quiet again, enjoying the movie. When it ended forty-five minutes later Sundae looked over at a nearby clock and saw that it was a little after eleven. “Oooh, I should get going. The roomies will be wondering where I’m at,” she said as they stood up from the couch. She then stepped away and went to get her bag from the bedroom. She picked it up from where she had left it and she checked it to make sure she had everything in it. She was just about to turn to get her shoes, when a pair of arms slipped around her waist holding her securely in their embrace. She leaned into David as he started trailing soft kisses along her neck. “Dae?” he murmured when he reached her ear. “Hmm?” Sundae murmured back, a sigh of contentment escaping her lips. “Stay with me tonight?” he asked, continuing his trail of kisses along the side of her head. She gently turned in his arms to face him. “Are you sure?” she asked. He lifted one hand and brushed a lock of hair away from her eyes. “I had to be away from you for two years. I don’t ever want to go through that again,” he said. Sundae smiled and then reached up and drew him down to her. As their lips met in a passionate kiss, a song came to Sundae’s mind that perfectly fit the moment.
I’ve been waiting To taste your kiss Touch you in the dark Hold you to my heart Sundae slipped her arms up around David’s shoulders, holding him close to her. His arms wrapped firmly around her waist and she reached up with one hand and buried her fingers in his hair.
I’ve been waiting For that moment We’ll be making love Now the time has come Come with me tonight Share my dreams Change my life Sundae sighed happily as David’s hands gently caressed her back, making their way up to her shoulders and fiddling with the straps of her dress. She gently untangled her hand from his hair and finished undoing his tie, setting it on the dresser.
Make tonight beautiful Make tonight something more Than any night I’ve ever known In my life before Make tonight beautiful Hold me close and don’t let go Lay with me and stay with me tonight Make tonight a beautiful night Oooooh Sundae’s fingers started undoing the buttons of David’s dress shirt and she shivered as he slipped the straps of her dress off of her shoulders.
Turn the lights down tonight There’s a world of love Waiting there for us Let me take you yeh To a place you’ve never been before Sundae trembled again when she felt David’s fingers fiddling with the zipper of her dress. She had completely unbuttoned his shirt and started to push it off as they backed over toward the bed.
Open up the door To a dream come true Take my hand And show me how (and make) David laid Sundae back on the bed against the pillows as his fingers clasped and lowered the zipper on her dress. She pushed his dress shirt the rest of the way off and her hands found their way to the hem of his undershirt and slipped up under it. All the while their lips never came apart.
Make tonight beautiful Make tonight something more Than any night I’ve ever known In my life before Sundae started to push up David’s undershirt, her fingers feeling the soft skin of his back. She felt him tremble and trembled herself at the touch of his fingers on her bare back as he started to lower her dress.
Make tonight beautiful Hold me close and don’t let go Lay with me and stay with me tonight Make tonight a beautiful night David lifted his arms long enough to let Sundae pull his undershirt off, revealing his perfectly chiseled chest. She tossed the shirt aside and pulled him back down to her.
And show me all the magic The night can bring You see you’re my darling heaven You’re all I need I’ve waited all my life For this moment to arrive So stay with me Make love to me tonight Sundae’s fingers then found and undid the clasp of David’s belt, sliding it out of the loops on his dress pants. He then managed to get her dress all the way off and she took it and dropped it on the floor with his belt.
Make tonight beautiful (make it beautiful) Make tonight something more Than any night I’ve ever known In my life before Sundae’s hands then went to David’s dress pants again, undoing the button and zipper, and starting to push them down. Within moments they had been shed and tossed to the floor as well.
Make tonight beautiful Hold me close and don’t let go Lay with me and stay with me tonight
Lay with me and stay with me tonight Make tonight a beautiful night Ooooh And that’s just what Sundae and David did. They melted into each other as they never had before and discovered each other in a brand new way. They took the words of the song to heart and made that night beautiful, losing themselves in the fire and passion of their love.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:07:55 GMT -5
Chapter 4 The next morning Sundae awoke feeling happier and more at peace than she had felt in a long while. She shifted slightly and felt the weight around her waist. She smiled and hugged David’s arm around her, her mind whirling with thoughts of the previous night. She had never imagined anything could be so amazing. Her hand found the hand of the arm wrapped around her and she gently took hold of it, caressing it with her fingers as she drifted off again. She awoke again nearly an hour later according to the clock radio. This time she gently turned over, not wanting to disturb David if he was still asleep. She smiled when she saw that he was awake, watching her. “Morning,” she murmured as she cuddled closer to him. “Morning,” he replied and brushed back a bit of her hair, his hand coming to rest on her cheek. “How long have you been awake?” she asked. “Only a few minutes. You’re beautiful to watch when you sleep,” he said. She blushed as he stroked her cheek with his thumb. She then noticed that his hair was mussed from the pillows and smiled at the sight. “You will always have bed head in the morning,” she mused as she reached up and ran her hand through his hair. He grinned. “Yeah, I don’t even know why it gets that way either, but that’s how it is every morning,” he said. Sundae brushed her hand through his hair again. “I don’t mind it. It’s actually pretty cute,” she said. He smiled and caught hold of her hand and softly kissed her fingers. “I um, I was also thinking about last night,” he said. She met his gaze wondering what was on his mind. “Last night was amazing, Dae. You’re amazing,” he said. She beamed at him. “So are you,” she said. She then reached up again, laid her hand behind his head and drew him down to her. As their lips met his arms found their way around her and he gently pulled her on top of him. She felt the tingling rush at the feel of his hands caressing her bare back. Her hands came to rest alongside his face, her thumbs caressing his cheeks. They broke the kiss after a few minutes, but didn’t move from their position, their noses just centimeters apart. “I love you, angel,” David murmured, his breath warm on Sundae’s lips. “I love you, too, and I always will,” she replied. She leaned down and kissed him again, softly and sweetly. She pulled back after a moment and laid her head on his chest, giggling softly. “Is something wrong?” David asked. “My stomach decided to spoil the moment,” she said. He brushed his fingers against her cheek. “How ‘bout I order some room service and make it better,” he suggested. She turned her head slightly and kissed his palm. “I’d like that,” she said. He smiled and she rolled off of him so he could get to the phone, which was on the nightstand on his side of the bed. She propped herself up a little and caught sight of the bathroom. “You mind if I take a shower?” she asked. He turned toward her, his loving smile nearly making her melt. “Anything you want, love,” he said. She leaned over and kissed him again and then sat up and bent down to grab her dress, which was still on the floor. She stepped into it as she got up and then went over to the bathroom, taking her bag with her. There she shut the door and turned on the shower to let it warm up. She then stepped out of her dress again, set it on the counter and then hopped into the shower. She let the warm water run over her thinking of the incredible pleasure of the night before. She had never imagined anything could be so wonderful and she didn’t think anything could ever compete. She went about washing her hair and felt refreshed and ready to face the day when she was finished. She turned off the tap and then grabbed a towel and wrapped herself up before stepping out of the shower. She pulled the curtain closed again and then turned to get her bag. As she did so, she noticed one of David’s shirts folded neatly on the counter. There was a note on top of the shirt that read,
In case you need something to change in to
She smiled at David’s sweetness and picked up the shirt, a light blue graphic tee that she recognized from their ‘Idol’ days. She had the pair of jeans and a three quarter sleeved shirt that she’d worn before the show the previous day in her bag, but she liked the idea of David’s shirt. She pulled out the jeans and an extra set of undergarments and quickly got dressed. She then combed her hair down and put on a little makeup for a finishing touch and then put her makeup pouch, comb, and her dress into her bag, before stepping out of the bathroom. She looked for David as she came back into the bedroom, but didn’t see him right away. She set her bag on the floor beside the dresser and then turned to look for David. She saw movement on the bedroom’s small private patio and when she looked out the door, which was ajar, she saw David setting up an outdoor breakfast. She walked over to the door and he looked up as she stepped out onto the patio. “This looks nice,” she said, smiling at him. He smiled, too, as he came up to her and took her into his arms. “I thought you’d like it,” he said and then leaned in and kissed her softly. She slipped her arms around him and hugged him tightly when he pulled back. “I knew that shirt would look nice on you,” he said. She smiled. “I can’t believe you still have it,” she said. “Yeah, I always liked it and it still fits,” he said. He then slid his arm around her shoulders and led her over to the little table and chairs where he’d set out their breakfast. There were two plates with eggs, pancakes and bacon slices and two glasses of orange juice. “Mmmm, this looks yummy,” Sundae said as she sat down in one of the chairs. “The food here’s pretty good, so I hope you’ll like it,” David said as he claimed the other chair. “I’m sure I will,” Sundae said. They then dug in to their meal and David was proven right about the food. The whole meal was perfect. When they were finished eating, Sundae and David sat back in their chairs, sipping their orange juice, and admiring the view from the patio. Even though they were only on the fourth floor the patio had a nice view of the neighborhood. Sundae was looking at the pretty glass windows of a nearby office building when she felt David squeeze her hand. She turned toward him and had to smile at his tender expression. “Something on your mind?” she asked. “Just you,” he replied and she blushed. “I was wondering if maybe you’d like to spend the day over in Malibu? We could have lunch and walk around or just sit on the beach?” he suggested. Sundae smiled. “I’d love that,” she said. David smiled. The two stayed at the hotel for a little while longer, enjoying the quiet morning. Around eleven they got ready and headed out to drive over to Malibu. Malibu was one of the most popular beach communities in the LA area. Many celebs called it home and it boasted great surfing, cozy little surf shack restaurants and some of the most stunning beach in California. Sundae had been there before, but she was happy to spend the day there with David. They had a light lunch at one of the little restaurants and then went down to the beach and settled on the sand to watch the waves. They stayed on the sand for most of the afternoon and, just after four, they decided it was time to head back. They walked slowly up the beach toward where they’d parked, not wanting the day to end. They were nearing the edge of the sand when David suddenly stopped. Sundae turned toward him and saw a thoughtful look in his eyes. “Is something wrong?” she asked. He shook his head. “No, it’s just…I’ve been thinking all day and there’s something I want to ask you,” he said. “What’s that?” she asked. He took a deep breath. “I’ve been thinking about this since your sweet sixteen and I knew when I first saw you again at the studio last week that I had to do this before I lost you again,” he said. “You’ll never lose me, David,” Sundae said and gently touched his cheek. He took hold of her hand, his gaze turning tender. “I know, and I want to make certain of that,” he took another deep breath, “You’re everything to me, Dae. You’re my sun, my rain, my moon and my stars. When I was away these last two years you were what kept me going. I told you before I left that when I came back I would find you and never let you go again, and that’s what I intend to do,” he said. He then took a step back, still holding her hand and stooped down on one knee before her. Sundae felt her heart jump and it jumped into her throat when he pulled a small box from his pocket. This box wasn’t simple black, but rather the signature light blue velvet of Tiffany’s. He popped open the box and she gasped to see a stunning, two carat, princess cut diamond solitaire on a thin gold band. David gently squeezed her hand and she looked into his eyes, her own blurring with happy tears as he spoke. “Sundae, you’d complete my heart and soul forever if you’d grant me this one wish. Will you marry me?” he asked. Sundae felt the tears come and she tumbled down onto her knees beside him, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug. She leaned in close to his ear. “Yes. In every possible language, yes,” she whispered, her joy overflowing. He hugged her even tighter and they held each other for a few minutes. When they finally pulled apart he held up the box again and this time removed the ring and gently slid it on to her finger. It fit perfectly and rested snugly and securely in place. Sundae gazed at it for a moment and then looked back to David, who was watching her with a smile of his own. She lifted her hands, laying them on either side of his face and drew him to her for a long kiss. When they pulled apart he helped her to her feet and pulled her close to him, wrapping his arms around her. She slipped her arms around his neck and they stood together, silhouetted in the sunset, listening to the waves and trading soft kisses. Sundae couldn’t help a smile at the sight of the ring sparkling in the sun light. “Have you really been thinking about this since my sweet sixteen?” she asked him. He nodded. “I have. The first time I ever saw you, the day I auditioned for ‘Idol’, I felt this rush…” “What a rush,” Sundae sang with a grin. He chuckled. “Yeah, like my song. That’s part of why I like that song so much. It reminds me a lot of what I felt when we first met. I knew from that first moment that you would be special to me, but I had no idea how fast I’d fall in love with you or how deeply,” he said. Sundae smiled and gently touched his cheek. “I had no idea how fast it would happen to me either. I remember during the tour, I was actually a little confused as to why the feelings were so strong, but I knew it was for a reason. I’m never happier than when I’m with you and when Esha told me that those feelings are what tell you you’re with the right person, I realized they were telling me that you’re the one,” she said. He tightened his grip on her, pulling her closer. “I felt that way, too. I still do. Now that we’re getting our happily ever after I’m going to be sure that it’s as happy as you’ve dreamed,” he said. She beamed at him. “It’s already even happier,” she said. He leaned in and kissed her again and she held onto to him as though she would never let go. They stayed where they were, enjoying the sunset, for almost another half hour and then turned to walk back to Sundae’s car. Sundae glanced at her ring again as they reached the parking lot and started across it toward the car. “So I guess this means you’ll be staying in LA?” she asked. David smiled. “I’ve already started looking at apartments. I’ve also talked to Jive and they want to meet with me about a new album, so I’m here for the foreseeable future,” he said. She beamed again. “I’m glad to hear that and I think I might be able to help out with the apartment thing,” she said. “Really?” he asked as they neared the car. “Yeah, I’ve got an eight bedroom house with two rooms not being used. You’re more than welcome to one of them,” she said. “I couldn’t ask that. You’ve already got your friends living with you as well as your brother and sister,” he said. Sundae giggled. “My friends adore you and Kimmie and Tom think of you as family. They’ll all be thrilled to see you,” she giggled again, “Jordin in particular, since she’s the only one who knows you’re back,” she said. “When did you tell her?” David asked. “That first day when I got home from the studio. She wanted to know who my co-mentor was, but made her swear she wouldn’t tell the others,” Sundae said. He was quiet for a moment and then spoke again. “You’re sure it won’t be an imposition?” he asked. By now they had reached the car and she turned to face him as they paused beside it. “There is nothing you could do that would make it an imposition. I love you more than anything and I want you with me for always,” she said. He brushed his fingers against her cheek. “If you’re sure,” he said. She nodded. “I’ve never been more sure of anything,” she said and then leaned up and kissed him softly. He was smiling even more when she pulled back. “Let’s go get my stuff then,” he said and she beamed as they turned and got into the car. They drove back to the hotel and got all their things together and packed up his suitcase and travel bags. They stopped off in the lobby and he checked out of the room and they then headed back to her car. They loaded all the bags into the trunk and then headed off to her Beverly Hills home.
Sundae and David pulled up to Casa de Wahlberg, as Sundae called it, just before six pm. The house was a sprawling eight-bedroom mansion in the hills above LA and it came complete with a huge backyard, a wide driveway and a four-car garage. Sundae had let David drive so he could get used to the route between her house and the city and, as they pulled into the driveway, Sundae saw Jordin rummaging around in the backseat of her Mustang. “Hey, Jor, what’d you misplace now?” she asked as she got out of the car. Jordin whirled around, hearing her. “Where were you last night?! Dana tried to call you like thirty times,” she said. Sundae groaned. “Ugh, dang it. I turned my phone off at the studio yesterday and I must have forgotten to turn it back on. Dana’s ready to fry me, isn’t she?” she said. “Oh yeah, and so is Kimmie. She and Tom were pretty worried about you,” Jordin said. “Hope I don’t have to grovel to get them to forgive me,” Sundae said. “Well, you don’t with me. I had an idea where you were and I see I was right,” Jordin said and waved to David as he got out of the car. He smiled and waved back. “Hey, Jordin, nice to see you,” he said. “You, too. Looks like the world’s been treating you well,” Jordin said. “Thanks,” David said and headed around to the back of the car. Sundae smiled at him and then turned back to Jordin, but before she could say anything the front door of the house flew open. “Sundae Sue Marie Wahlberg! Where on Earth have you been? You had us worried sick last night when we couldn’t reach you,” Dana said as she charged down the front steps, her short, light brown bob bouncing with each step. “Dana, I am so sorry. I forgot to turn my phone back on after the show last night,” Sundae said. “Well, you scared Kimmie and Tom out of their minds and you had me thinking you’d been grabbed or something,” Dana said. “I know and I am so sorry,” Sundae said, but Dana was only half hearing her. Sundae saw that she’d noticed David, who was getting their bags out of the trunk, and couldn’t help a smile. “I’ll forgive you on one condition,” Dana finally said. “What’s that?” Sundae asked. “You have got to tell me where you found that gorgeous creature. I did not know there were guys that good looking in LA,” Dana said. Sundae laughed at that. “Dana! That’s David. You remember him,” she said. Dana whipped around to face her, her jaw nearly on the ground. “That’s David?! Holy cow! Why didn’t you tell me he was back?” she said in shock. “Because I knew you’d react exactly like this,” Sundae said. David chuckled. “Nice to see you, too, Dana,” he said. Dana was still reeling from the surprise. “I can’t believe it,” she turned back toward the door, which stood open, “Cara! Get your butt out here! You won’t believe this,” she called. Sundae laughed and a moment later the door swung out again as Cara came out. “I hope you know I have and exam to study for. Statistics won’t learn itself,” she said, but as she came down the front steps she saw David, and a grin spread across her face. “But it can wait five minutes. Hello, there. Why haven’t we met before?” she said as she walked up to David. Sundae laughed. “Down girl,” she stepped over to stand beside David, “He’s spoken for and don’t you have a boyfriend?” she asked. “Throw a spoke in my wheel, why don’t you?” Cara said to her. David laughed. “We have met, Cara. It’s just been a while,” he said. She looked him for a moment and then her jaw dropped open. “OMG! Sundae, when were you gonna tell us?!” she squeaked. “I was thinking the next century because I knew you’d react this way,” Sundae said wryly. Cara giggled. “Sorry, it’s just a pretty big surprise. How’d you find out he was back?” she asked. “He was my co-mentor on ‘Idol’ this week,” Sundae said. Both Cara and Dana gasped at that. “You’ve been back together for a week and you didn’t tell us? So not fair,” Dana said. Sundae rolled her eyes. “Look, I had my reasons. Let’s just leave it at that,” she said. She then reached for her small bag, but David stopped her. “I’ve got it,” he said. She couldn’t help a smile. “Alright, but I’m helping you take everything upstairs,” she said. He shouldered both her bag and his travel bag and then grabbed the handle of his suitcase and then slid his arm around her as they strolled toward the door. “So, I’m assuming from the luggage that we have a new roommate?” Dana asked as she, Cara and Jordin followed them. “That would be the case,” Sundae said, but couldn’t keep from smiling as David hugged her to him. “Which room is he getting?” Cara wanted to know. Sundae thought for a moment and then looked up at David, who wore a smile of his own. “You know I think we’ll decide that later. Have you guys thought about dinner?” she asked looking to Dana, Cara and Jordin. “Well, Kimmie’s not back from practice for another hour, but she said she’d be okay with whatever when she gets here,” Dana said. “Alright, what about Tom?” Sundae asked. “He’s on a study date, but he should be back anytime. You know he’ll eat anything,” Cara said. Sundae had to giggle at that. “Yeah, unfortunate family trait,” she said and the others all laughed, too, as they went inside. Once all were inside Sundae and David turned toward the stairs. “Let’s put your stuff in my room for now and we’ll figure everything out later, after dinner,” she said. “Sounds good,” he said and lifted his suitcase to carry it up the stairs. Cara ducked around him and headed up ahead of him and Sundae. “Sorry, gotta get back to studying,” she called as she disappeared from sight. “And I need to find that paper I was looking for. I swear I brought it in the other day,” Jordin said and turned back toward the door. “You mean that thing on the label letterhead? It’s on the fridge,” Sundae said. “Ah! Dae, you’re awesome. I have been looking everywhere for that,” Jordin said and headed for the kitchen. “And I think I’ll go out back and grab my ball for some practice,” Dana said and headed off down the corridor that led to the living room. Sundae and David headed upstairs and down the hall to Sundae’s room. She opened the door when they reached it and led the way in. “This place hasn’t changed much since I last saw it,” David remarked as he set his suitcase next to the closet door. Sundae giggled. “Nobody’s supposed to know you’ve been in here before so that stays between you and me,” she said. “I know,” he said. “I’m not kidding either. Even my parents don’t know I had you up here that one time,” she said. He slipped his arms around her from behind. “Don’t worry, I’m not telling anyone,” he said. She smiled and leaned into him enjoying the feel of his embrace. She looked up at him after a moment and then drew him down to her for a kiss. When they pulled apart a few minutes later he caught hold of her left hand and kissed her fingers, his gaze taking in the sparkle of the diamond. “I still can’t believe you said yes,” he said. “How could I not,” she said, beaming at him. He smiled. “Think we should tell the others?” he asked. “We can, if you’re okay with it. I definitely want Kimmie and Tom to know,” she said. “How ‘bout we tell them at dinner?” he suggested. She nodded. “Sure,” she said. He leaned in and gave her one more soft kiss and then slid his arm around her as they turned and left the room.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:08:21 GMT -5
Chapter 5 An hour and a half later, Sundae and David along with Dana, Cara and Jordin and Sundae’s younger twin siblings, Kimmie and Tom were gathered in the living room munching on pizza. Kimmie and Tom had been surprised to see David when they got back from their outings, but they were very happy he was back. “I still can’t over what a wild week this has been for you, Dae. I mean, first going back to ‘Idol’ again and then reuniting with David. You were very smart to come back here when you did,” Kimmie said. “Seriously. You really did luck out, Dae,” Jordin said. “I wouldn’t say it’s luck. It seems like fate to me. Like you guys were meant to be,” Cara said almost dreamily. Sundae giggled. “You remind me of some of our ‘Idol’ friends. They used to say the same thing when we were touring together,” she said. “Hey, speaking of the guys, do you still keep in touch with any of them?” David asked. “Yeah, actually. Brooke’s still over in Van Nuys and I see her every once in a while. And Dave’s just about five minutes from here with Kim and I still get emails from a few others,” Sundae said. “How are Dave and Kim? I think they had just gotten married when I last saw them,” David said. “Yeah, they have the cutest little boy, now,” Sundae said. “Really?” David asked. “Yeah, I have a picture on my phone. I’ll show you after dinner,” she said. David smiled. “I can’t believe Dave has a kid,” he said, shaking his head. “Oh, that’s nothing. Mike has two,” Sundae said. David looked at her in surprise. “You’re kidding? Michael Johns a father of two?” he said in disbelief. “That’s what I said when Dave told me. He’s got twin girls and they’re just adorable,” Sundae said. “Man, I have missed a lot,” David said. Sundae looked up at him and saw an almost rueful look in his eyes. “Hey, don’t regret doing what you did. I’m sure you did a lot of good where you were,” she said. He smiled. “Thanks, Dae,” he said, hugging her gently. “You guys really are sweet together,” Cara said with a smile. Kimmie giggled. “Mmmm, wait til mom and dad hear you guys are back together,” she said. Tom chuckled, too. “Yeah, mom’ll probably start shopping for a wedding planner. Ow! What?” he asked when Kimmie whacked him on the arm with a pillow. Sundae and David both laughed, not so much at the scene as at the irony of it. “Okay, I do not think me getting hit with the pillow is all that funny,” Tom said. “Oh, it isn’t that,” Sundae said as she and David calmed down. “Then why all the laughter?” Dana asked. Sundae looked up at David again and he smiled. “We have something we need to tell you all,” David said. “What would that be?” Kimmie asked. Sundae couldn’t help a grin. “Well…” she said and held up her left hand, showing the diamond. Five jaws dropped open at the sight. “Ahhhh! Oh my gosh, Dae,” Kimmie squealed as she jumped up from her chair and plopped down next to Sundae on the loveseat. “Holy cow, Dae!” Dana gaped as she, Cara and Jordin came over to the loveseat as well. Sundae showed them the ring and they all oohed and ahhed over it. “That is gorgeous,” Kimmie said. “Totally. I am so telling Ben I want a ring like that,” Cara said. “If you even get that far,” Dana joked. Sundae giggled as Jordin took her turn looking at the ring. “That is incredible. David, you have amazing taste,” she said. “Thanks,” David said. Kimmie then came around the loveseat and hugged him from behind. “Welcome to the family,” she said. “Thanks, Kimmie,” David said. Dana, Cara and Jordin engulfed Sundae in a group hug. “Congratulations,” they squealed. “Thanks, guys,” Sundae said. Tom had been quite through all this and he now got up from his chair and walked over to stand in front of David. He stood up and Tom looked him in the eye. “You take care of her, alright. I know where you live and I have two older brothers to back me up,” he said. David nodded. “You know I’ll take of her. She means the world to me,” he said, looking over his shoulder at Sundae, who smiled at him, lovingly. Tom smiled, too, at the sight, and extended his hand to David, who took it. “Welcome to the family, man,” Tom said. “Thanks,” David said. He then sat back down beside Sundae and Tom went back to his chair. The girls were already trying to get details out of Sundae. “Have you guys talked about a date yet?” Jordin asked. “Not yet, but I’ll keep you posted,” Sundae said. “I get to be a bridesmaid, right?” Kimmie asked. “Us, too,” Dana and Cara chorused. Sundae giggled. “I haven’t thought about all that yet, but I’ll let you know when I do,” she said. “You’d better,” Kimmie said as she and the other three moved back to their former positions. The group sat around for another hour and, just after nine, Kimmie and Tom got up to go to bed. “We, unlike some people, have school tomorrow, so we’re off to bed,” Kimmie said. “We have class tomorrow,” Dana said, speaking for herself and Cara. “Yeah, but you don’t have to get up at six am for it,” Tom retorted. “Night guys. Did you get all your homework done?” Sundae asked. “Yes, mom,” Kimmie said. Sundae giggled and hugged her goodnight and she and Tom then headed up stairs. “Hey, speaking of bedtime, shouldn’t you guys figure out where he’s gonna sleep?” Cara asked. “Yeah, we should,” Sundae agreed, looking up at David again. “He could take the room next to mine. That was Jason’s room, right?” Cara said. Sundae nodded. “Yeah, it was. It’s yours if you want it,” she said to David. “How close is it to yours?” he asked. She giggled. “Just across the hall and two doors down,” she said. “Hmm, wish it were closer,” he said. Dana giggled. “You guys should just take the master suite,” she said. Sundae looked over at her, but Dana cut her off before she could speak. “I know you said you wanted to save it for a guest room, but it makes more sense for you guys to use it,” she said. “Yeah, you guys are planning your wedding and your future. You should have your privacy for that,” Jordin chimed in. Sundae smiled. “You’re right, that does make sense,” she said. “Mmmhmm, and remember Snow lived with Michael for a couple months before they got married,” Cara added. Sundae looked up at David again. “What do you think?” she asked. He smiled. “Any place with you is perfect,” he said, stroking her cheek. She leaned over and their lips met. “Whoa! Okay, save it for upstairs,” Dana said as she stood up and started to clean up the mess from dinner. Sundae and David both laughed lightly as they pulled apart. They then turned to help with the cleanup, as did Cara and Jordin. The cleanup took about half an hour and then everyone made their way upstairs to bed. Dana, Cara and Jordin went off to their rooms and Sundae and David went to Sundae’s room to get his stuff and some of hers, as well. “How much do you want to take?” David asked as Sundae grabbed the bag she’d been using before. “Oh, I’m just gonna put all my make up and stuff in here for now. I’ll move my clothes tomorrow,” she said and grabbed a few things off her dresser. She then went over to the closet to get a box of hair stuff she kept there. As she was picking it up she noticed another box next to it that she’d put there to keep it hidden from her mom. She picked it up, too, and stacked it on top of the other box. She then took both boxes and grabbed her bag as well. “Ready?” she said to David, who had his small bag shouldered and his suitcase in tow. “Sure,” he said. She smiled and led the way out of the room and down the hall. They rounded a corner and walked up to the door of the master suite. “My parents liked a little privacy from us kids so they made sure their room was away from ours,” she said as she opened the door. “I can see that. My parents get driven crazy enough with the five of us,” David said as they stepped into the room. There was a small step down into the room and then it spread out before them. Since her parents had taken most everything with them, all that was there was a queen-sized bed, a dresser, two bookshelves with magazines and such on them and a small table with a TV and cable box. Off to one side was a door that led to the bathroom and facing them was a sliding glass door that led onto the private patio. “This is nice,” David said as he wheeled his suitcase over to the dresser. Yeah, it’s not much at the moment, but we can fix it up. If you have anything that needs hanging, there’s a closet around the corner over there,” Sundae said as she took her boxes over to the bathroom. The bathroom had been made to have two people using it. There were his and hers sinks, a standing shower and a Jacuzzi bathtub. There were also his and hers medicine cabinets and plenty of space in the vanity for storage. “Wow, your parents sure had it nice,” David said as he came in with his things. “Yeah, Mom loved all the amenities in here,” Sundae said as she tucked some of her hair stuff into the vanity. “My mom would’ve, too, especially the his and hers sinks,” David said as he started to put away his things, too. When they were finished they went back out into the main room and she noticed that he’d laid out the two jackets he’d worn the previous night on the bed, along with two pairs of slacks. “Where did you say the closet was?” he asked as he went over to the items. “Oh, it’s right around here,” Sundae said and led the way around a small corner to another door. She opened it revealing a walk-in closet. “Wow,” David said as he brought his jackets and slacks into the closet. “I know. We girls were always so jealous that mom had so much space for all her clothes,” Sundae said. “This is a big closet. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen one this big,” he said. Sundae smiled. “You can hang up anything you want and I’m thinking a shopping trip might be in order so you can get a few more things, if you want to,” she said. “That’d be great. I think I should also see about getting a rental since I’m going to be here a while,” David said. “That’s an idea. My oldest brother happens to have a car he’s trying to sell. We could look at it, too,” Sundae said. David came over to her and pulled her to him. “Have I told you you’re amazing?” he asked. “Mmmm not today,” Sundae said, beaming at him. “Well, you are. I honestly have no idea what I’d do without you,” he said. She leaned up and placed a soft kiss on the tip of his nose. “I was just thinking the same thing about you,” she said. He leaned in and kissed her deeply, pulling her closer as they backed out of the closet. Once they were out of the closet, David bent down and swept Sundae into his arms, bridal style. She giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Have I told you how romantic you are?” she asked. “Not today,” he murmured as he kissed her again. “Well, you are. This is very romantic,” she said. He smiled. “I’m glad you like it. Besides, I should get some practice so I can carry you over the threshold,” he said. She beamed and drew him down to her again, their lips meeting and melding with the heat between them. He carried her over to the bed and laid her against the pillows and she pulled him down with her. They lay together, sharing soft kisses and caresses, and just enjoying being together. Sundae pillowed her head on David’s chest, listening to the soft, soothing sound of his heartbeat. She had almost dozed off when she felt him gently stroking her cheek. “Are you tired?” he asked. She smiled. “Yeah, a little,” she said. “I am, too. Maybe we should call it a night,” he said. “Mmm. Did you have a date for meeting with the label?” she asked. “Sort of. I told them I’d call them after ‘Idol’ this week. They said they wanted to meet by the end of this week. Why?” he asked. “Just trying to figure out the rest of the week. I’m off from class tomorrow, so if you wanted to set the meeting for then I’d be happy to take you,” she said. “That’d be nice. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if you came. We could do lunch or something afterward,” he said as they got up from the bed. “That’d be nice. We could even do a little shopping if you want,” Sundae said. “Sounds like a plan,” David said as he moved over to his suitcase. Sundae came to stand beside him. “I forgot to grab my pjs when we were in my room. I’ll be back in a minute,” she said and kissed him on the cheek. He clasped her hand as she started to step away. “No need,” he said and pulled from his suitcase the tee shirt he’d loaned her that morning. “It’s yours whenever you need it,” he said. She smiled and leaned up and gave him a soft kiss. “Thank you,” she said. He smiled as he handed her the shirt and she turned and went into the bathroom to change. There she slipped out of her jeans and three quarter sleeved shirt and put on David’s shirt. She then picked up the box she’d gotten out of her closet, which she’d left on the bathroom counter and opened it. In it was a worn, plaid flannel jacket that looked like it had been around a while. Sundae smiled as she hugged the jacket, remembering when David had given it to her during their first year of dating. It had been in the middle of the ‘Idol’ season and he had given it to her when she’d forgotten to bring a sweater to a get-together at the ‘Idols’ apartments. She had kept it since and she still treasured it. She slipped it on and put the box inside the vanity, before tossing her clothes into the hamper. She then quickly brushed her teeth and braided her hair before stepping out of the bathroom. David had also finished changing and was lying on the bed flipping through the latest issue of People magazine. “I thought you didn’t care for the rag mags,” Sundae said as she took in the sight of him in an undershirt and flannel pajama pants. He looked up and smiled at her as well. “I just got it to see what’s been going on around here lately. You still have that jacket?” he asked, looking surprised to see it. “Of course, it’s one of my most prized possessions. I nearly killed my mom when she almost gave it away to Goodwill. I hid it away after that, but I thought now would be a good time to bring it out again,” she said as she joined him in bed. He put the magazine on the nightstand and turned to face her, pulling her into his arms. He lifted his hand to brush her hair back from her eyes, but the glint of light on metal caught her eye. “Speaking of still having things,” she said, catching hold of his hand to look at the sliver band he wore. She had given it to him at the end of the Idol tour and was pleased to see that he still had it. “This was my one connection to you when I was away. There’s no way I’d ever let go of it,” he said. She gently drew his hand to her lips and kissed each of his fingers. “You still haven’t told me what happened while you were away,” she said. David sighed. “Part of the reason for that is because the last year wasn’t exactly easy, for a few reasons,” he said. “You don’t have to tell me if it’s too hard for you,” she said. He smiled a little. “I do want to tell you. You have a right to know. I was in Southeast Asia the whole time. You know from my letters that I started out in a nice urban community, but right before the letters stopped, I was moved to this little village in the hills. They had a lot of problems there and needed people to help build things up. You know I don’t usually say things like this, but it was really bad there,” he said. “It was?” Sundae asked. He nodded. “Yeah. They barely had running water. There was no electricity, people lived off the land, it was the third world we’re always hearing about,” he said. “Wow,” Sundae said. David nodded. “Some of it was really hard to see. There were times I wondered how I was going to get through the rest of my mission, but I kept praying and God helped me see I had something to keep going for,” he said. “What was that?” Sundae asked. He gently stroked her cheek, his eyes looking into hers. “You,” he murmured. Sundae felt her heart skip a beat. “Me?” she asked. David smiled at her lovingly. “I’ve told you, Dae, you’re my world. Thinking of you was what kept me going. I don’t know that I would’ve come away from my mission as sane as I am if I hadn’t had you to think of coming home to,” he glanced down at the ring, “It was lucky that this is a CTR ring. They might’ve taken it from me otherwise,” he said. “Why would they do that?” Sundae asked. “One of the rules of the church is that we’re not allowed to date when we’re on our missions. I didn’t think much of it at the time, but now I think part of why they moved me to that rural area was to restrict my contact with you. They must’ve thought I wasn’t focused enough on what we were doing over there, but I couldn’t help it. Even though I had always wanted to serve my mission and I was happy to do so, my heart was wanting you,” he said. Sundae slipped her arms around him and they quickly found their way up around his shoulders. “And mine was wanting you. I missed you more than anything when you were gone, and I’m so glad you came back safely,” she said. He hugged her even closer to him. “So am I,” he said. She nuzzled her head against his chest, a contented smile on her face. She felt him kiss the top of her head and her smile widened. A moment later she felt him shift a little, but it was only to pull the covers up over them. He then switched off the light and then wrapped his arms around her again. Her smile never faded as she drifted off to sleep.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:08:51 GMT -5
Chapter 6 The next morning when Sundae awoke she was surprised to find that David was already up. When she saw that his side of the bed was empty she immediately grew concerned. She sat up and looked around the room, but didn’t see him. “David?” she called, but didn’t get a response. She got up from the bed, her heart pounding. Where was he? “David?” she tried again as she walked over toward the closet. He was nowhere to be seen. Sundae turned back toward the bed, feeling a lump in her throat. Just as she sat down at the foot of the bed the bedroom door opened. Sundae looked up and felt a wave of relief when she saw David come in, carrying two mugs of coffee. He saw the shine of tears in her eyes and quickly set aside the mugs and came over to her. “What’s wrong?” he asked as he sat beside her and pulled her close to him. “I just got a little scared when I woke up and you weren’t here,” Sundae said. He hugged her tightly. “I was just downstairs calling Jive to let them know when we’ll be there. I brought coffee, thinking you’d like it to wake up to,” he gently tapped her chin, making her look up at him, “I’d never, ever, leave you, Dae. I gave you my promise,” he said, holding up her hand so the diamond caught the light from the window. Sundae smiled, seeing it, and looked up into his eyes. “And I gave you mine,” she said. He pulled her even closer, wrapping his arms securely around her. She slipped her arms around him reveling in the warmth of his embrace. After a moment she looked up at him and then leaned up and kissed him softly. “Mmmm, what was that for?” he asked. She smiled. “Just for being you,” she said. He hugged her again and then stood up and pulled her to her feet to start the day.
Just after eleven am Sundae and David pulled into the parking lot of the Jive Records studios. They were to meet with one of David’s producers at 11:30. Inside, they checked in with a receptionist in the lobby and then rode the elevator up three floors to where the producers’ offices were located. Another receptionist greeted them as they stepped off the elevator. “Good morning, did you have an appointment?” she asked as they walked up to her desk. “Yeah. David Archuleta to meet with Craig Stevens,” David said. The receptionist checked a calendar on her computer. “Alright, Mr. Archuleta. Have a seat and I’ll let Mr. Stevens know you’re here,” she said. David nodded and led Sundae over to a row of chairs facing the receptionist’s desk. “I hope this all goes well for you,” Sundae said as they sat down. “I do, too. A new album would be great,” David said. “Yeah, and you know your fans will be chomping at the bit when they find out,” Sundae said with a smile. David smiled. “I just hope they’ll like it if it happens,” he said. Sundae gently squeezed his hand, but before she could speak a new male voice spoke up. “David, welcome back,” he said and Sundae and David looked up to see a man in his early fifties with salt and pepper hair approaching them. David stood up and clasped the man’s outstretched hand. “Good to see you, Craig,” he said. “You, too. Ready to get back to work, huh?” Craig said. David nodded. “Yeah,” he reached around and pulled Sundae forward, “You remember Sundae, right?” he said. Craig smiled. “Of course, you two still together?” he asked. Sundae looked to David and he smiled. “Yeah, we are,” she said and held up her left hand, showing her ring. Craig whistled at the sight of it. “Nice. Congratulations to you,” he said. “Thanks,” David said. Craig nodded and turned toward his office. “Let’s go sit and discuss,” he said. Sundae and David followed him and he led the way into his office. There, Craig gestured to a conference table. “Have a seat. Can I get you anything?” he asked, stepping over to a mini fridge. “We’re alright, thanks,” David said. Craig grabbed himself an iced frappucino and then joined them at the table. “So, new album. Have you been writing lately?” he asked David. “I actually did write a lot while I was away, and I’ve got a lot of ideas,” David said. “Terrific. I’ve already talked to the execs and they’re all for doing a new album. They’ve already started calling around to other producers and song writers,” he said. “Sounds great. How fast do they want to get it out?” David asked. “Wellllll… they’re kinda hoping for Christmas, but I told them I’d run that by you,” Craig said. “Wow, Christmas? That is fast,” David said. Sundae patted his hand. “True, but you wouldn’t have a summer tour in the way this time, so you’d have more time to work on it,” she said. He nodded. “That’s true,” he turned in his chair to completely face her, “I was hoping for time for us, too. I don’t want to wait any longer than I have to,” he said, taking hold of her hand and brushing his fingers over her ring. She smiled. “I know. I’d rather not wait either,” she said. “Have you guys set a date, yet?” Craig asked with a smile. “Not yet, but that sounds like it’ll be the main topic of conversation over lunch,” David said as he turned back around. Craig chuckled. “Sounds like it. Also, I asked the execs about what we discussed when you called me and they went for it. They’re actually really enthused by the idea,” he said. David grinned. “Awesome,” he said. Sundae was about to ask what they were talking about when Craig placed some forms in front of her on the table. “So that means that we’ll need to get your John Hancock on these, Sundae,” he said. Sundae picked up one of the forms. “What are…” she started to ask, but then realized what the forms were. She clapped a hand over her mouth in shock. “Is this a contract?” she gasped. Craig grinned. “A little songbird told me you were still looking for a good label and the guys upstairs have been wanting you for years, so it all works out,” he said. Sundae looked over at David and couldn’t help but grin at the loving smile on his face. She put the forms back down and then threw her arms around him in a huge hug. “What would I do without you?” she murmured into his ear. “I ask myself the same thing about you all the time,” he murmured back. “I get the feeling I shouldn’t be here at the moment,” Craig said. Sundae and David pulled apart laughing lightly. “Sorry about that, Craig,” David said. “Ah, it’s okay. I was your age once,” Craig said. Sundae smiled and turned to the forms in front of her. “Anybody got a pen?” she asked. Craig handed one over to her and she started in signing the forms. The contract was for a three album deal and the terms were excellent. They were allowing her a lot of decision power in regards to songs, writers and producers, which she was very pleased with. When she finished signing all the forms she handed them back to Craig. He smiled. “Great, you put your contact information on here, right?” he asked. “Yeah, it’s all there,” Sundae replied. “Terrific. I’ll get these to the guys upstairs and we’ll be in touch for the first meetings soon,” he said. “Great, thank you so much for the opportunity,” Sundae said. Craig smiled. “You should be thanking him,” he said nodding to David, “We wouldn’t have known you were looking if he hadn’t spoken up.” Sundae beamed at David and he gently squeezed her hand. “You don’t owe me anything,” he said. “Well I still want to say thank you,” she said, kissing him on the cheek. He smiled at the gesture and Craig smiled, too, as he stood up from his chair. “Well then, I’ll talk to the execs and get back to you with dates to start recording,” he said. David and Sundae stood up as well and David shook Craig’s hand. “Thanks, Craig. We’ll let you know when we set a date so we can schedule around it,” he said. “Good deal. You guys take care,” Craig said as he led them to the door of his office. “You, too, Craig and thanks again,” Sundae said as she and David stepped out the door. They were quiet as they walked over and got in the elevator to head down, but as soon as the doors slid shut Sundae turned and pounced on David again, hugging him tightly. He chuckled as he hugged her back. “Happy?” he asked. “God yes. I have everything I could possibly want now,” she said. “That makes two of us,” he said, hugging her tighter. The elevator dinged to a stop at the lobby then and they pulled apart and stepped out hand-in-hand, nodding to the other receptionist as they left.
Half an hour later Sundae and David were sitting together at an outdoor café looking over lunch menus. “Anything looking good to you?” Sundae asked. “The club sandwich looks good, but so do a couple other things,” David said. “Yeah, I’m having a hard time picking, too,” Sundae agreed. They perused their menus for a few more minutes and finally were able to decide, Sundae on a chicken Caesar salad and David on a grilled turkey sandwich. Once their waiter had left to put their order in, Sundae and David turned their conversation to their wedding plans. “Do you have any thoughts on a date? I know we said we didn’t want to wait,” David said. “Yeah, I know. I’d always thought summertime. I know June would be hard, but there’s always July and August,” Sundae said. “July’s when your parents got married right?” David asked. “Yeah, July 26th. They’ll celebrate twenty-six years, this year,” Sundae said. “Wow, that’s something,” David said. “Yeah it is,” Sundae said with a thoughtful smile. David gently squeezed her hand. “Summer does sound good. I kind of like the thought of August. It’ll give us time to plan everything and it’ll be a good time for our honeymoon, too, since it’ll be nice and warm wherever we go,” he said. Sundae smiled. “That does sound nice,” she said. She then fished into her purse and pulled out a small day planner, which she flipped open to August. “Any day in particular you like? I was thinking a weekend to make it easy on our families and guests,” she said. “Yeah, a weekend would be good. Do have a preference for a certain time of the month?” he asked. “It doesn’t really matter. Any day would work,” she replied. He looked at the planner again and his eyes suddenly lit up. “The fourth falls on a Saturday?” he asked. “Yeah, why?” Sundae asked. “That was the date I auditioned for Randy, Paula and Simon for the first time,” he said. Sundae looked up at him, a beaming smile coming to her face. “The day we first met,” she said, remembering it vividly in her mind. Her smile grew and she squeezed his hand. “August 4th it is,” she said and made a note in her planner. He smiled, too. “Well, now we have the date so we just need to make it happen. Do you have any thoughts on a place?” he asked. “Well, I’m definitely thinking Utah since both our families are there now,” Sundae said. “Yeah, that does make the most sense,” David agreed. Sundae smiled again. “I was also thinking of maybe having the ceremony at your church,” she said. He looked at her in surprise. “You’re sure about that?” he asked. She nodded. “Even though I’ve only been there a couple times, I really like your church and, knowing you as I do, I know that’s what you’d really like,” she said. “I would like that, but are you sure it’s what you want?” he asked. “Yeah, I am, and if Pastor Wilkins is still there it’d be nice if he performed the ceremony,” she said. David beamed and pulled her into a loving hug. “You just made me fall even more in love with you,” he murmured. She hugged him even tighter. A noise beside them then spoiled the moment and they looked up to see their waiter setting their meals on the table. “Your lunch is served,” he said and couldn’t help a smile as he walked away. “Thank you,” Sundae said as she and David turned their attention to their lunch. They continued to talk about wedding plans as they ate and settled on having the reception at a pavilion at the park he liked so much and they also started deciding whom they wanted in the wedding party. After they’d finished lunch they drove over to the Target Sundae had mentioned and picked up a few things for David, and even a couple things for Sundae before heading home.
Later that night, after moving the rest of Sundae’s stuff into their room, Sundae and David lay together in bed, watching a little TV to wind down from the day. Sundae wasn’t really paying attention the episode of E! News they were watching. She had her head pillowed on David’s shoulder and was thinking over the day. “Something on your mind?” David asked, seeing her thoughtful expression. “Mmm, not really. I was just thinking about how nice today was,” she said. “It was nice, wasn’t it?” he said, planting a kiss on the top of her head. “Yeah, should be a nice weekend, too,” Sundae said. “Mmmm. I was kind of thinking about that. I thought maybe we could go to the movies or go for a drive or maybe a nice dinner,” David suggested. Sundae smiled. “That all sounds…oh crud, speaking of dinner, I completely forgot,” she said, sitting up a little. “Forgot what?” David asked. “My older brothers and sister still live near here with their significant others and they always come over for dinner on the weekend. We settled on Saturday this week, cause Misty and his wife have plans on Sunday. I completely forgot about it and I still need to get stuff at the store. Plus none of them know you’re back yet,” Sundae said. David gently pulled her to him. “It’s okay, we can manage. We’ll go to the store in the morning and I’m more than happy to help get things ready,” he said. Sundae slipped her arms around him. “Have I told you you’re amazing?” she asked. He chuckled softly. “Not since this morning,” he said. “Well, you are and I mean it when I say I wouldn’t know what to do without you,” she said. He kissed the top of her head again and hugged her to him. “I feel the same way about you,” he said. They held onto each other for a few minutes and he then shifted to where he could keep his arm around her and hold her to him. “Wanna see if there’s any good movies on?” he asked. “Sure,” she said. He then picked up the remote and they settled in to surf around for a movie.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:09:11 GMT -5
Chapter 7 The next morning Sundae and David got an early start since they had a lot to do. They showered, dressed and had a quick breakfast and then headed out to run to the store for the things they’d need for dinner. When they got to the local Whole Foods market David went and got a cart and Sundae pulled out the list she’d written up over breakfast. “So, how much do we need to get?” David asked as they walked into the store, him pushing the cart and her looking at the list. “Quite a bit. I’m thinking I’ll make one of my grandma’s recipes. Plus, we should get side dishes, too,” Sundae said. “Well, let’s get to it then,” David said and Sundae giggled as they started to make their way through the store. They went through all the major departments getting ingredients for the meal Sundae had planned. She had picked one of her grandmother’s recipes, Chicken and Peas, which was chicken breast filets baked with peas in a cream of celery soup sauce and topped with breadcrumb croutons. She’d always had it with mashed potatoes, croissant rolls and a vegetable so she needed a lot of things to make the meal work. She picked out packages of chicken filets, an organic soup for the sauce, fresh bread for the croutons and two canisters of roll and bake croissants and fresh peas and broccoli for a side dish. As Sundae was bagging up the broccoli, David spoke up with an idea. “Were you going to make a dessert?” he asked. “Yeah, I had a couple ideas in mind. Why?” Sundae asked. “I was just wondering. Dinner already looks great, so I was just thinking it should have a great dessert to finish it off,” he said. She smiled and as they passed a display of apples she got an idea. “I think I know exactly what dessert will be. My grandma makes the best apple pie,” she said and started to look for the variety of apples she needed. “Mmmm, apple pie does sound good,” David agreed as Sundae grabbed another produce bag and started picking out apples. It was just after two when Sundae and David got back home from the store and they hurried to get their groceries out of the car since there were a few things that needed to be refrigerated. “Where’s everyone else?” David asked, noting that their friends’ cars weren’t in their usual spots in the driveway. “Oh, Dana and Cara are over visiting their families and Jordin’s at the studio. They usually do that on family dinner night so they don’t feel like they’re intruding. Kimmie and Tom should be around, though,” Sundae said as they each grabbed a bag out of the back of the car and headed inside. Sundae looked up the staircase to the second floor as they stepped into the entryway. “Kimmie! Tom! Get down here and help with groceries, please,” she called. Her brother and sister came dashing down the stairs a moment later. “Can you get the rest of the stuff out of the car?” Sundae asked. “Yeah, no prob,” Tom said. He and Kimmie then dashed out the door and Sundae and David headed into the kitchen with the bags they held. There they set the bags on the counter and started to unpack them and put things away. “What time is everyone getting here?” David asked as he put the chicken filets and vegetables in the fridge. “They usually get here between five and six so we have a little time to relax before I need to get dinner started,” Sundae replied as she put away the bread and handed him the packages of croissant rolls. She looked over at him as he put the packages in the fridge. “Did you have something in mind that you wanted to do?” she asked. “I was thinking we could relax upstairs, maybe talk a little more about the wedding,” he suggested as he came over to her. She smiled. “That’d be nice,” she said and then leaned up and gave him a soft kiss. “Hey, how much stuff did you guys get? These bags are heavy,” Tom’s voice suddenly said as he and Kimmie came in with the rest of the groceries. “I did get a bit but, Snow, Misty and Jase are coming for dinner tonight, so I had to get enough for everyone,” Sundae said. Tom smacked himself on the forehead. “Oh man, that’s right. I’ve gotta go clean up,” he said and set his bags on the counter before hurrying out of the room and back upstairs. “And I have math homework I need to finish. Hmm, maybe I’ll ask Cassie to help me, she’s a math whiz,” Kimmie said and then followed Tom out of the room. Sundae shook her head as she and David turned to the rest of the bags. “Who’s Cassie?” he asked as they started pulling things out of the bags. “She’s Jason’s girlfriend,” Sundae said and then laughed lightly, “Oh geez, Jase is gonna flip when we tell him,” she said. “What do you mean?” David asked. “Well, Jase had this little wager going that between him and me he’d be the first to get married. I think I’ll be beating him to the punch on that one,” she said. David chuckled. “Yeah, you will,” he said as they finished putting away the groceries and put the bags into a cupboard to be reused later. Once they were done Sundae moved over to David and slipped her hand into his. He smiled as he turned toward her and pulled her to him. “You ready to go relax for a little while?” he asked. “Absolutely,” she said and he slipped his arm around her as they made their way out of the kitchen. Sundae and David relaxed in their room for the next couple of hours. They talked more about the wedding, this time discussing how they’d tell their parents and the rest of their families. They both were thinking a trip to Utah would be in order to do so. They were just turning the conversation to possible honeymoon destinations when Sundae noticed the time on the clock radio. “Wow, it’s almost five already,” she said. “What time is everyone getting here?” David asked as they got up. “Six, so I need to get dinner started now if we want to eat by six thirty,” Sundae replied. He nodded and they headed out of the room and back downstairs. Sundae went straight to the kitchen and started on dinner while David went and tidied up the living room. Sundae was starting to layer the Chicken and Peas into a casserole dish when she felt a pair of arms slip around her, hugging her gently. “How’s it coming?” David asked, kissing the side of her head. “Pretty good. This just needs about ten minutes in the oven and then all that’s left is the potatoes and croissants,” Sundae replied. “Need any help?” he asked. “You could be a love and set the table for me,” she said. He hugged her again. “Anything for you,” he said. She turned to look up at him and he kissed her softly before turning to get out the plates and flatware. Sundae then turned back to finishing with the casserole. She put the last layers into the dish and then topped it with breadcrumbs before putting it in the oven. She then checked the potatoes and then got out the packages of croissant rolls and a cookie sheet. She quickly opened the packages and rolled the croissants, wanting to get them in the oven so they’d have time to bake up. Once that was done she got out the fresh broccoli, cut it up and put it into a pot to boil. David had finished setting the table by this time and she saw him leaning on the counter watching her as she turned toward the pantry. She smiled as she neared him and he reached out and brushed his fingers against her cheek. “You’re beautiful,” he murmured, gazing into her eyes. She blushed lightly, her smile widening. “And you’re wonderful,” she said and then leaned up and kissed him. They were both smiling when she pulled back and she then turned and went over to the pantry and brought out bags of chips. She had just set the bags on the counter when the doorbell echoed through the house. “That’ll be them. Could you put these in bowls and keep and eye on the croissants so they don’t burn?” she asked. “Sure,” David said. Sundae leaned up and kissed him again and then dashed out to get the door. Kimmie and Tom came down the stairs just as she reached it. Sundae nodded to them and opened the door revealing their three oldest siblings, Misty, Snow and Jason along with their families. “Hey guys,” Sundae said. “Hey, how are you?” Snow asked. “Can’t complain. How ‘bout you?” Sundae asked. “I’m good, but I’d better if Maddie would learn to not wake me up at five thirty every morning,” Snow said. Sundae giggled turning her attention to the eight-month-old baby girl being held by Snow’s husband, Michael. “Oh, she can’t help it. She just wants her mamma,” she said. Snow smiled and turned to Kimmie and Tom and Sundae turned and greeted their brothers. “Hey guys,” she said. “Hey little girl. How’s it hangin?” Misty said. “I’m good, but I’m not a kid any more, you know. I’m nineteen,” Sundae said. “True, but you’ll always be our little sis,” Jason said as he reached for a hug as well. His girlfriend, Cassie, a pretty brunette and Misty’s wife, Shayla, a lovely blonde, came up beside her. “Don’t mind them, they’re just over protective. You should see Misty with this little guy,” Shayla said, looking to the twenty-month-old boy in her arms. He looked like a miniature version of Misty with his light brown hair and brown eyes. Sundae smiled, taking her nephew from her sister in-law. “Hey Alex, you happy to see your auntie Dae?” she said. The little boy smiled. “Dae Dae,” he said with a giggle, garnering smiles all around. Kimmie came up to Sundae and reached for Alex. “Aw, come here to auntie Kimmie, little man,” she said, taking the boy into her own arms. Sundae smiled, at the nickname, but it brought the thoughts of her big news to the fore of her mind. Dave Cook had often called David ‘little man’ during their ‘Idol’ season. “Well, come on in. Dinner’s almost ready,” Sundae said and led the way into the living room. Her brothers and sisters followed her and sat together on the sofa and chairs. “Hey, did you forget the snacks? You know I need a filler before dinner,” Jason said. Cassie whacked him on the arm. “She’ll get them when she has a minute,” she turned to Sundae, “Sorry about that. I’m trying to train him, I swear,” she said. Sundae laughed. “I know and all the girls in our family thank you for the effort,” she said. Jason gave her a look, but she just shook her head and turned toward the kitchen. “Honey, do you have the chips?” she called. “Yeah, they’re coming,” David called back. Sundae looked back around to see six pairs of eyes watching her curiously. She had to laugh at the sight. “You’ll see,” she said. A moment later David came in with two bowls of chips and Snow, Misty and Jason’s jaws dropped. “Holy…!” Misty said in obvious surprise. “How in the…” Jason started to say. “When did this happen?” Snow asked, cutting him off. “You guys don’t watch ‘Idol’ anymore, do you?” Kimmie said bluntly. “And that’s supposed to explain things?” Misty said. Sundae smiled and moved over to David as he set the bowls on the coffee table. “I went back to ‘Idol’ this past week to mentor this year’s group and David was my co-mentor. We’ve been back together since,” she said, slipping an arm around David. He returned the gesture and hugged her to him. “Aw, that’s so great. I always knew you guys would be together,” Snow said. “Oh you don’t know the half of it,” Tom said. Misty and Jason perked up at this. “Something we should know?” Misty asked, his tone turning to protective big brother. Sundae gave Tom a look and then turned back to her older siblings. “Well, I was thinking I’d wait til after dinner, but since Tom brought it up…” she started to say. “What’s going on? You better not be pregnant,” Jason said. Cassie again lightly whacked him on the arm. “Way to be subtle,” she said. He rolled his eyes and Sundae continued. “No worries there yet, Jase, but um…you guys are getting a new brother in-law,” she said and held up her hand, showing her ring. Snow lit up like the sun. “Oh my gosh, Dae. Are you serious?” she asked as she got up and came over to Sundae and David. They both smiled and Sundae nodded. Snow grabbed her up in a hug. “Congratulations,” she squealed. “Thanks, Snow,” Sundae said. Misty and Jason stood up. Sundae looked toward them. “Be nice, you two,” she warned them. They looked to David. “This is quite a surprise,” Jason said. “I understand, but you know I’ll take care of her,” David said. Jason and Misty traded looks and Misty smiled. “We know. Congrats, man. Welcome to the family,” he said, reaching to shake hands. David accepted and shook Jason’s hand as well. “Thanks,” he said. “So, tell us everything. Have you set a date? Have you picked a place? Have you told mom and dad yet?” Snow asked as she started to pull Sundae over to the couch. Sundae laughed. “Slow down there, Snow. We do have a lot of that figured out, but let me get dinner on the table first, then we’ll talk,” she said and started for the kitchen. “Need some help?” David asked. She smiled. “That’d be nice,” she turned to Kimmie and Tom. “Help get Alex and Maddie washed up and get the high chairs, please?” she said. “Sure, no prob,” Tom said. Sundae nodded and she and David then headed for the kitchen. There, Sundae noticed the tray of croissants sitting on the stove with a basket on the counter next to it. “Did you take these out of the oven?” she asked, looking to David. “Yeah, I noticed they were getting close to being too brown,” he replied. She smiled. “Thank you for that. I was worried they’d be burnt by now,” she said as she switched off the burners under the potatoes and broccoli and strained both over the sink. She then put the broccoli into a serving dish and quickly mashed the potatoes before putting them into a serving dish as well. David set glasses out on the counter and then turned to the fridge. “Do you know what everyone likes to drink?” he asked as he opened it. “Um, just do milk all around and could you grab me a stick of butter for the croissants?” she asked. “Sure. Why didn’t you mention you’re an aunt now?” David asked as he grabbed the milk and butter and handed her the latter, before shutting the fridge. “Sorry if that was a bit of a surprise. I’ve just been so happy having you back that I haven’t really thought about much else,” Sundae said as she unwrapped the butter and set it on a butter plate. She felt his arms come around her and she leaned into him, a beaming smile coming to her face. “I’m happy, too, Dae. Happier than I could ever have imagined,” he said. She turned in his arms and slipped her arms up around his shoulders, hugging him tightly. He held her for a moment and then tapped her chin, making her look up at him. He then leaned down, capturing her lips with his. She lifted one hand up to the back of his head, reveling in the feel of his lips caressing hers. “I love you,” David murmured when their lips parted for air. “I love you, too,” Sundae said. She gently touched his cheek for a moment and then turned back to finishing dinner. She pulled the casserole out of the oven and he turned back to filling the glasses. She pulled out serving spoons and put them into the bowls with the broccoli and potatoes and also put one into the casserole before picking it up with a potholder and carrying it out to the table. She and David brought everything out to the table and as they were setting out the last of the glasses, she looked over to her siblings. “Dinner’s on,” she called. “Alright,” Jason said and led the charge to the table. Sundae had to giggle at his predictable behavior. Snow and Shayla got Maddie and Alex situated in their highchairs and then sat down beside their husbands. Sundae moved over to the chair next to David and he pulled it out for her. She kissed his cheek as she sat down and he pushed her chair in and then sat beside her. Everyone’s attention then turned to dinner and they dug into the delicious meal set out before them. “Mmmm, Dae you totally inherited mom’s cooking skills. This is so good,” Jason said. “Absolutely, Dae. This is terrific,” Tom agreed. “Well thank you. I do try,” Sundae said. “So Dae, tell us what you and David are planning. We want to hear every detail,” Snow said. Sundae looked to David and he smiled, giving her reassurance. She turned back to her siblings. “We have been planning quite a bit and we do have a date and place in mind,” she said. “Well, don’t leave us hanging. We need to mark our calendars,” Misty said. Sundae giggled. “We settled on August 4th and, since both our families are there, we’ve decided on Utah as the place,” she said. “That sounds perfect, Dae,” Snow said. Kimmie nodded. “Yeah, it does, but one little thing. I know you haven’t told mom and dad yet,” she said. Sundae sighed. “True. We haven’t told his family yet, either, and we’re still debating on how to do it,” she said. Jason chuckled. “I wouldn’t worry. You know mom and dad will be thrilled. Mom always secretly knew it would happen,” he said. Sundae smiled a little at that and David patted her hand under the table. “Is that as far as you guys have gotten with the plans or have you decided on more?” Shayla asked as she tried to get Alex to take a bite of potatoes. Sundae smiled. “We have decided on a few other things. We’ve both decided who we’d like to be in the wedding party. Kimmie, you get your wish to be a bridesmaid and Snow, I’d love it if you’d be my maid of honor,” Sundae said. Kimmie grinned and Snow beamed. She reached over Maddie’s highchair and squeezed Sundae’s arm. “I’d be honored, Dae,” she said. Kimmie nodded. “That makes two of us and if you guys need any help with the plans we’re more than happy to pitch in,” she said. Both Sundae and David smiled at that. “We appreciate that, thank you,” David said. Sundae nodded in agreement. Over the coming weeks Sundae and David continued making their wedding plans and everyone around them helped as much as they could. Sundae’s friends brought her bridal magazines and Snow gave her a wedding planner book to write everything down in. They started shopping for rings and also started looking at caterers, florists and photographers in the Salt Lake area. Along with all this, Sundae also had her college classes to keep up with. She was taking three courses for the spring term and it was a lot of work to keep up with them when her heart and mind could only think of David and their future together. She was relieved when her classes wrapped up in early June and she could put her full attention on her wedding. The day of her last final she was almost exuberant. She practically danced out to her car and sang along with the radio all the way home. When she got there she twirled into the house, happy to be home and done with school for the time being. “David,” she called as she came in. She was surprised when he didn’t respond. He had been there to greet her every time she’d come home. “David?” she tried again as she made her way into the kitchen, “Honey, are you here?” She started to worry when he again didn’t reply, but as she turned to go look upstairs she saw a note on the kitchen table. She walked over and picked it up and a smile came to her face as she read it,
Dae, I know you had your last final today, And I have a little surprise for you to celebrate. Meet me at the park as soon as you get home. I love you, David Sundae’s smile grew and she turned and headed back to the entryway. Since her friends and Kimmie and Tom were all out for the evening she simply grabbed her keys and headed out the door. It was a warm evening, so she decided to walk the two short blocks to the park. When she got there she realized that David hadn’t said where in the park he would be. She started to reach for her phone, which was in her pocket, but then she suddenly knew right where he was. She walked through the park, following the path to where it wound past a high hill that overlooked the city. At the top of the hill was a look out, a spot Sundae had brought David to before. Sure enough, he was there, setting out a picnic on the grass looking out over the valley. He looked up, hearing her footsteps, and smiled when he saw her. “Hey,” he said as he came up to her. “Hey, yourself,” Sundae said as she slid into his arms for a hug. “Thank you for thinking of this,” she said, holding him close to her. “You deserve it, you’ve been working hard,” he said. They held onto each other for a few minutes and then he pulled back and led her over to their picnic. The scene was very reminiscent of the picnic he had set up for them at the Great Salt Lake; the day they had first said ‘I love you’. A blanket was spread out on the grass with place settings for two and a basket sat in wait. They sat down on the blanket and David brought three Tupperware containers out of the basket. He opened them revealing their dinner; grilled chicken, steamed vegetables and fresh baked rolls. “Did you make all this?” Sundae asked as he served the food onto their plates. “You once told me the most romantic thing a guy can do for a girl is make her dinner,” David said. Sundae beamed and reached over to lay a hand on his cheek. “You’re amazing,” she said. He turned his head and kissed her palm. “Only for you,” he said. They then settled in and enjoyed both their dinner and the rosy sunset painting the sky overhead. By the time they finished eating the sky was darkening and the first stars were making their appearance. They packed away their dishes and Tupperware and then cuddled close together, watching the stars come out. “Um Dae, there’s something I wanted talk with you about,” David said. Sundae looked up at him. “What is it?” she asked, tensing slightly when she saw his serious expression. “I think it’s time we told our parents and the rest of our families,” he said. “I know it is,” Sundae said. “I’ve been thinking about it and I have something to show you,” he said. “Oh?” she asked. He opened the basket again and this time brought out a fairly thick envelope and handed it to her. She took it and opened it to find two plane tickets to Utah for the next week. She looked up at David and smiled. “I thought we could fly up next week and surprise them,” he said. Sundae reached out and hugged him tightly. “Have I told you I love you?” she asked. “Not since earlier today,” he replied. She pulled back and looked into his eyes. “Well, I do. I love you so much,” she wrapped her arms around him again, “You just took a huge load off my shoulders,” she said. He held her close to him. “You’ve been working so hard lately. I just wanted to make one thing a little easier,” he said. “You’ve made it a lot easier,” she said. She shifted in his arms to where she could look out at the view again and he hugged her as close to him as he could. “I um, I’ve also been thinking about our honeymoon,” David murmured after a few minutes. Sundae looked up at him again. “We don’t have to go anywhere fancy. As long as I’m with you that’s all that matters,” she said. “I know, but I wanted to do something special,” he said. She smiled. “Like what?” she asked as she cuddled up to him again. “Have you ever wanted to go to Europe?” David asked. Sundae’s head jerked up again. “Europe? Well, yeah I’d always dreamed about when I was younger…” she suddenly paused and looked at him again, “Are you suggesting…” she started to ask. He reached into the basket again and brought out another envelope. He opened it and handed her a folded sheet of paper. She took it and opened it to reveal an itinerary list. She gasped as she read it over, seeing all the major cities in western Europe on it; London, England, Paris, France, Rome, Italy and Madrid, Spain with ten days in each city. Sundae looked to David again. “How is this affordable? Trips like this cost a fortune,” she said. David gently took hold of her hands. “Remember when you told me I should save my money for something I really wanted?” he asked. “Oh my gosh,” she gasped. “This is something I wanted. You’re my whole world, Dae, and I want to give you the world,” he said. Sundae threw her arms around him, tears of joy flowing from her eyes. “I can’t believe it,” she said. He hugged her tightly. “Well, you should. I’ve already arranged it. I’ve even talked to the label and everything’s settled. We’ll leave as soon as the reception’s over,” he said. She pulled back and looked into his eyes. “Thank you so much,” she said. He reached up and gently brushed his fingers through her hair. “Only the best for you, my beautiful angel,” he murmured. She wrapped her arms around him again, her joy overflowing from within her. She had no idea how she’d come to be so blessed, but she wouldn’t trade it for anything in the universe.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:09:51 GMT -5
Chapter 8 Over the next few days Sundae and David got ready for their trip to Utah. They talked to Snow, Misty and Jason and they all decided to fly up as well, along with Kimmie and Tom, since the Wahlbergs hadn’t been all together in a while. Sundae and David also called their families to let them know they were coming up for a visit. Neither said anything about the other being with them, however, just that there was a little surprise in store. Their flight was set for Wednesday and they decided to stay several days so they could visit the church and meet with florists and caterers in the area. The night before they were to leave, Sundae and David were getting their suitcases packed when Sundae had a thought. “Hey, I was just wondering. How are we supposed to pack enough for a month in Europe and not get charged extra by the baggage people at the airport?” she asked. David laughed. “I thought about that and I figure if we take two good size bags, we’ll be okay,” he said. “I hope so. It’s ridiculous how many extra fees and charges you have to pay these days to have a nice vacation,” Sundae said. “Yeah, I know,” David agreed. “So, any thoughts on how to tell the ‘rents? Do we tell them separately or all together?” Sundae asked. “I actually did have one thought on that. I was thinking we could get both our families together for dinner and tell them all at once,” David suggested. Sundae smiled. “That does sound like a good idea. We could pick a nice restaurant in Salt Lake and rent out a private room since there’s so many of us,” she said. “Yeah, and we could have our families meet us there and then come in together and surprise them,” David said. “Perfect,” Sundae said and David smiled. “Yeah, it will be,” he said. They finished packing an hour later and got ready for bed, since they had an early flight. Sundae finished first and was lying in bed, flipping through one of the bridal magazines she’d been given, when David joined her. “Getting ideas?” he asked. She smiled. “Yeah, a few. I’m looking for both myself and for Snow and my bridesmaids. Snow was thinking we’d start shopping while we’re in Utah,” she said. “Can I see what you’re looking at?” he asked. She giggled. “You know the rules. You don’t get to see me in my dress until I come down the aisle,” she said and quickly marked her place in the magazine before closing it to keep him from seeing the dress she’d been looking at. He started to reach for the magazine, but she held it away from him. “Oh no you don’t,” she said. He then grinned and reached toward her. “What are you up to?” she asked. His reply was to grab her in his arms and start tickling her. Sundae burst out giggling. “No ha-ha fair. You ha-ha play dirty,” she managed between her giggles. They tussled for a couple more minutes and then she finally managed to put the magazine into a drawer out of his reach. He pulled her to him and she cuddled close, pillowing her head on his chest. “I still can’t believe all this is really happening. That you’re here with me and that we’re going to spend the rest of our lives together,” she murmured. He hugged her gently. “There’s nowhere else I’d rather be,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “Me either,” she said, cuddling even closer as her eyes slipped shut. He reached over and switched off the light and then wrapped his arms around her as they drifted off to sleep.
The next day Sundae and David flew up to Utah to see their families. They arrived in Salt Lake at just after noon and headed for the hotel they’d be staying at to relax. Once they were settled in they each called their respective families to invite them to dinner at a nearby Italian restaurant where they had rented out a private room. They used their cell phones to make the calls and Sundae went out onto the room’s tiny patio so neither family would overhear the other call. Sundae’s call took a little while, since her mom wanted to hear everything that was going on with her. Sundae finally got the call to end by promising her mom they would talk at dinner. When she stepped back inside she saw David stretched out on the bed, his head propped on his arms. She couldn’t help a smile at the sight. “Comfy?” she asked as she went over to her purse and put away her phone. “It’s pretty good. Not as nice as our bed at home, but it’s nice,” he said. She smiled even more and moved over to the bed and lay down beside him. “I take it your call went a little faster?” she asked as she wrapped an arm around his middle. “Yeah, dad didn’t ask too many questions, which was nice,” David replied. “Wish I could say the same for my mom. She wanted to know every detail of what’s been going on with me,” Sundae said. “Did you tell her anything?” David asked. “No, I just said we’d talk at dinner,” Sundae said. David smiled. “Good. We don’t want anything spoiling the surprise, do we?” he said, shifting so that they were facing each other, their noses centimeters apart. “No we don’t,” she said leaning up to kiss him. He responded, his arm going around her, holding her to him. They lay together, relaxing, for almost the rest of the afternoon, planning what they would say when they told their families their news. They got up just before six and quickly got ready before heading out for their evening. The restaurant they’d picked was Lugano, a little rustic place with rustic Italian fare. They were greeted by the hostess at the door when they arrived. “Good evening. Dinner for two?” she asked. This particular restaurant didn’t require reservations. “Actually, we had rented out the private room for the evening. It should be under Archuleta,” David said. The hostess checked through some papers on the podium in front of her. “Oh yes, I have a note here. Follow me,” she said and led the way into the main dining room. The restaurant did have a rustic feel to it and reminded Sundae of pictures of Tuscan villages she’d seen in travel magazines. The hostess led the way through the dining room to a large private room in the back. As they walked up Sundae and David saw that their families had already arrived. The hostess paused a few feet from the door. “This is our private room and, as you can see, your party has already arrived. Your servers will be with you shortly,” she said. “Thank you,” David said. The hostess nodded and stepped away and Sundae and David walked over to the door of the room. They were pleased to see their families getting along as they had before, and they saw their dads talking off to one side. “You do have to wonder if there’s a reason we were all gathered here tonight,” his dad said. “Yeah. All I know is that Sundae called earlier today and asked us to meet her here for dinner,” her dad said. “David did the same with us and if I know those two, I’d be willing to bet there’s an interesting story behind all this,” his dad said. “Then you’d be presuming correctly,” David said, choosing that moment to announce his and Sundae’s presence. Their parents and siblings all turned round. “Sundae!” her younger siblings squealed and ten-year-old Destiny and Alexei and ten-year-old Precious all jumped up and ran over to her. His younger sisters were right on their heals and nearly knocked him over with their hugs. “Whoa, easy there you guys. I’m glad to see you, too,” he said. Sundae laughed as her sisters and brothers took turns with her. “How are all you guys? I missed you,” she said, giving hugs by the handful. “We’re cool,” her sixteen-year-old brother, Rocky said. The younger kids giggled. “We’ve got so much cool stuff to show and tell you. You have to see my new song,” Destiny said. She was taking after Sundae in the music department. “Yeah and could you help me practice my soccer,” Alexei asked. Sundae smiled. “Sure Lex, I’ll try to come by the house this weekend and I’ll help you then,” she said. She then started to make her way toward the table, David beside her. They greeted their parents and she hugged her youngest sister, four-year-old Pleshette, before everyone sat down. Their servers came in then with waters and menus, which were distributed around the table. Sundae started to look at her menu, curious as to the dishes served at Lugano, but she didn’t get far. “Alright you two, what’s the big deal setting us up like this, hmm?” her mom asked and Sundae and David looked up to see both sets of parents watching them questioningly. Their siblings all turned to look at them as well. “Guess there’s no getting around telling them now, is there?” Sundae asked. “Doesn’t look like it,” David agreed, taking hold of her hand. She smiled at the gesture. “We’re not getting any younger over here, you know,” her dad said. “Speak for yourself,” her mom joked, drawing a light round of laughter. “Alright. We did get you guys together for a reason. We’ve got something we need to tell you all,” David said. “And mom, before you ask, the other kids know. We told them a couple weeks ago,” Sundae said. “Okay, now you’ve really got me curious,” her mom said. “I think that goes for all of us,” his mom said. “Does this have anything to do with you guys being on ‘Idol’ a couple weeks ago?” Destiny asked. “You guys went back to ‘Idol’?” his dad asked. Sundae and David nodded. “Yeah, during the first week in May. We co-mentored this year’s ‘Idols’. It brought us back together,” Sundae said. “Why didn’t you tell us you were making an appearance? We would’ve watched,” her mom said. “I think we just assumed you guys would be watching. I know Des watches, so I thought she’d tell you,” Sundae said. “Well, does all that have something to do with what you have to tell us?” his mom asked, getting things back on track. David smiled. “It’s an introduction. It was just after our appearance on ‘Idol’ that I managed to do something I’ve wanted to do for a while. I asked Dae to spend the rest of her life with me…and she said yes,” he said, turning his smile on Sundae. She smiled, too, and kissed him lightly on the lips. “Sundae? Does this mean…?” her mom asked. Sundae turned and had to smile at the expectant look on her mom’s face. “Yeah, mom, it does,” she said and held out her hand so her mom could see her ring. Both her mom and his gasped when they saw it. “Oh wow, that’s stunning,” his mom said. Tears came to her mom’s eyes and she got up and came around the table to hug Sundae. “Mom, don’t get all sappy,” Sundae said. Her mom laughed through her happy tears. “I’m sorry, honey, but I can’t help it. You’re getting married,” she said. “Can we see the ring?” Destiny asked as she and Precious leaned over toward Sundae. “Sure,” Sundae said and held out her hand to them. “Wow, that’s so pretty,” Precious said. Sundae smiled and turned that smile on David as her mom let go of her. He smiled, too, and then turned to his parents. “Mom, Dad?” he asked. They both smiled brightly his mom beaming. His mom reached across the table and took hold of his hand. “We’re so happy for you, mijo,” she said. “Yeah, we knew when you guys were younger that this was where you were headed,” his dad agreed. David looked toward his siblings. “What do you guys think?” he asked. They all smiled, too and his younger sisters got up and joined the group oohing and ahhing over Sundae’s ring, hugging her as they did so. “It’s awesome, bro, and like dad said we all kinda knew it would happen,” his brother, Daniel said. “Yeah, but you know you guys are stealing my thunder, right?” Claudia joked. “I thought you and Rich were waiting until next year?” David said. “We are,” Claudia said. “Well, Dae and I are planning for August so you’ve got plenty of space,” David said. “August? That’s a little fast, isn’t it?” Mrs. Wahlberg asked, looking up from admiring Sundae’s ring. Sundae smiled. “We decided we didn’t want to wait,” she said taking hold of David’s hand and letting their fingers twine together, “We’ve already had to wait the last two years.” “Why do I think you guys would’ve run off the second you graduated if he’d been around,” Rocky quipped. “Rocky!” Sundae complained, a light blush tingeing her cheeks. “He sort of has a point. It does seem a little fast, Dae,” her dad said. Sundae looked toward him and saw him looking at with a concerned expression. She sighed. “I should’ve known you’d be the tough one to convince,” she said. “I’m just thinking here. It’s not just that it seems fast, you are only nineteen,” he said. “Dad, Snow was nineteen when she married Michael. How am I different?” Sundae asked. “You aren’t, really. It’s just…you know how I always said you grew up too fast,” her dad said. Sundae smiled. “I remember. I also recall saying that no matter what I’ll always be your little girl. Besides, there are four girls younger than me in this family. This won’t be the last time you do this,” she said. Her dad smiled. “Very true,” he said. He then got up as walked around the table, his gaze meeting David’s as he walked up behind Sundae’s chair. David stood up, holding the gaze. “I know I should’ve asked your permission first, and I would’ve if I’d known you’re here in Utah now,” he said. Mr. Wahlberg nodded. “I appreciate hearing that. I knew when I first saw you two together that there was something special between you and every time since then has only served to confirm it. You’re a good man, David,” he looked to Sundae and then back to David, “You have my blessing,” he said. David let out a breath he didn’t know he’d been holding in and held his hand out to Mr. Wahlberg. “I’ll take care of her, sir, I promise,” he said. Mr. Wahlberg nodded again. “I know you will,” he said. Sundae smiled at the scene. Her parents then went back to their seats and David sat back down as well. “So, tell us everything. How much have you planned? What can we help with?” her mom asked as they started looking over their menus. Sundae and David smiled. “Well, we do have some planned. We’ve decided on August 4th as the date…” she started. “And, since all of you are here already, we’ve decided to have the wedding here in Utah,” David finished. “Alright, that all sounds doable,” his dad said. “We’re also planning to visit caterers and florists while we’re here and we’re going to talk to Pastor Wilkins and see if he’ll perform the ceremony,” David added. His parents smiled at that. “I’m sure he will. He adores you,” his mom said. “Sundae, have you started looking for a dress, yet? There are a lot of really nice shops around here,” her mom said. Sundae smiled. “I’ve been looking in magazines to find a style. Snow and the others are flying up later this week and I thought we could all go shopping together,” she said. “Alright, I’ll even treat for lunch,” her mom said. “Great,” Sundae said. “I’ll be happy to take you tux shopping, David. The sooner you find one the quicker it can tailored if need be,” his dad said. David nodded. “Okay. Daniel will have to come along, too,” he said. “Why me?” Daniel asked. David chuckled. “The Best Man needs a tux, too,” he said. Daniel sat up a little more at that. “Me? Your Best Man?” he asked. “Yeah, you are my brother,” David said. Daniel couldn’t help a grin. “Thanks, man. I’m honored,” he said. David nodded and Sundae looked over at little Pleshette. “Pleshettie, would you like a pretty new dress?” she asked. Pleshette beamed. “Yay!” she said, clapping her hands. Sundae giggled. “You’re going to be my flower girl, so you’ll need to look like a little princess,” she said. Pleshette giggled even more. “Do we get to be bridesmaids?” Destiny asked, speaking for herself and Precious. “Not this time, sweetie. We’ve decided on five people each. Snow’s going to be my Maid of Honor and I’ve picked Kimmie, Dana, Cara and Jordin as my bridesmaids. We’ll still get you guys pretty new dresses, though. As family of the bride, you should look your best,” Sundae said. “Okay,” Destiny said. The rest of the evening went wonderfully. Sundae and David’s wedding plans were the chief subject of conversation and plans were made for the next several days to go shopping and look into venues and other such things. It was after ten by the time the two families were leaving the restaurant to head home. Sundae and David strolled along behind their families, hand-in-hand, happy with how well things were going. “Hey, I just had a thought. Where are you two staying?” his dad suddenly asked and they looked up to see him standing a few feet away from them. “We’re at a hotel about five minutes from here, why?” David asked. His dad shook his head. “Not acceptable. Get your stuff and bring it to ours,” he said. Sundae and David traded looks. “We wouldn’t want to impose,” Sundae said. His dad chuckled. “Who said anything about an imposition? This is family,” he looked to David, “Your room is just as you left it and it’s ready and waiting for you,” he said. David turned to Sundae. “What do you think?” he asked. She smiled. “It sounds nice and it’ll make all the driving around we have to do easier since my family’s just one town over in Brighton,” she said. He gently squeezed her hand and then turned back to his dad. “Alright, thanks dad,” he said. “No problem. I’ll wait up if you want to come tonight,” his dad said. David looked to Sundae again. “That okay with you?” he asked. “Sure, I’ve got enough energy for a little while longer,” she said. He nodded and turned to his dad again. “We’ll be there in no more than an hour,” he said. His dad nodded and headed for his car and Sundae turned to say goodnight to her family. An hour and a half later Sundae and David were in David’s room at the Archuleta home. They had gotten their bags and checked out of the hotel and now were getting ready to climb into bed for the night. The family dog, Teddy, was perched at the foot of the bed, watching Sundae as she put her bag with her facial cleansers back into her suitcase. Teddy barked at her as she put the lid of the suitcase down. She laughed and turned to him. “What? Did you want to sleep on my clothes?” she asked. Teddy barked again. “I don’t think so,” Sundae said as she started to move around to the right side of the bed. “He giving you a hard time?” David asked as he came in, having finished his nightly routine. “He’s just being a brat, aren’tcha Teddy?” Sundae said, reaching down to pat the dog on the head. Teddy licked her fingers, making both Sundae and David smile. “Oh now he’s just trying to earn nice points,” David said as he moved to the left side of the bed. Teddy got up and walked over to him and David couldn’t help another smile. “Down there,” he said, pointing to the foot of the bed. Teddy reluctantly moved back to where he’d been and Sundae and David climbed into bed. David switched off the light as Sundae pulled the covers up over them and he then wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close to him. She couldn’t help a tiny giggle when she felt Teddy rest his head on her ankle. “Now he’s using my foot for a pillow,” she murmured. David chuckled softly, too. “Teddy…” he said quietly. The dog moved his head and Sundae sighed in contentment. “That’s better,” she murmured. David hugged her closer and kissed the side of her head. Sundae smiled a small smile as she drifted off. It was in these peaceful quiet moments when she couldn’t have been happier.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:10:20 GMT -5
Chapter 9 The coming days were a hub of activity. Sundae and David, with the help of their families, went all around the Salt Lake area visiting caterers, florists, videographers, and photographers. It was a lot of running around, but it was worth it knowing that the wedding would truly be a day to remember. On Wednesday morning, however, Sundae had a rude awakening that would turn into a big development. She awoke that morning feeling a little woozy, but shook it off thinking she was just tired. No sooner had she gotten out of bed, though, than she had to run to the bathroom. David sat up in time to see her dart out the door and was immediately concerned. When she came back a few minutes later, drying her face with a small towel, he jumped up and came over to her. “Are you okay?” he asked, gently taking her in his arms. “Yeah, now. I must’ve just eaten something that didn’t agree with me,” she said. He hugged her to him. “Why don’t you go back to bed for a little while,” he suggested. Sundae smiled and kissed him on the cheek. “I will, but it would be cozier if you were with me,” she said. David’s loving smile was all she needed to see. He bent down and swept her up in his arms and carried her back to the bed. He laid her back on the pillows and she drew him down beside her. They cuddled up to each other and quickly dozed off again. When Sundae woke up again, a little over an hour later, she again had a feeling in her stomach, but this time it was the growl of hunger. She slowly rolled over and had to smile when she saw David, propped up on one elbow, gazing at her. “Hey, how long have you been awake?” she asked as she reached up and brushed her fingers through his hair. “Only a few minutes. Have I told you you’re beautiful to watch when you sleep?” he murmured. She smiled. “Not lately,” she replied, her hand lowering to lie against his cheek. “Well you are,” he said and leaned down. As his lips met hers, Sundae was thankful she’d swished with mouthwash after her earlier incident. “Mmmm, you taste good,” she murmured when he pulled back. “Are you hungry?” he asked. “Yeah, I’m suddenly craving pancakes,” she said. He smiled. “If you think you can handle them, then pancakes it is,” he said. He then sat up and helped her up and then slid his arm around her, pulling her close, as they headed out to the kitchen. Sundae was fine throughout the rest of the day, but her odd symptoms came back the next two mornings. By Friday she was starting to wonder if she should go to the doctor. The whole thing was just a little too weird for her. Fortunately, Friday was dress-shopping day with the girls, so she had something nice to take her mind off things. Sundae, along with her mom and sisters all went out driving around to various bridal boutiques so Sundae could try on wedding gowns. They went from store to store and looked at all different styles and Sundae also looked at styles for Snow and her bridesmaids. After a lunch break they continued going around and by three in the afternoon, Sundae was starting to feel both tired and frustrated. “How many does this make?” she asked her mom as they walked up to the door of another store, a small ‘Mary’s Bridal’ in downtown Salt Lake. “I lost count a little while ago, but nobody said you had to find a dress today. You’ve still got over a month and you can always try LA. I’m sure Rhea would be more than happy to help,” her mom said. “Yeah, that’s a bright spot. I could always go online, too. I could design something to my tastes,” Sundae said as they went into the store, her mom leading Pleshette by the hand. “That could take a while, but it’s not a bad idea,” Snow said. “Tired mommy,” Pleshette said. “We’re all tired, Shettie,” Destiny grumped lightly as she and Precious wandered over to a rack of dresses. Sundae rolled her eyes and went over to another rack along with Kimmie and Snow. They both noticed that Sundae looked a little worn out. “You okay, Dae? You look a little more tired than the rest of us,” Kimmie said. “I’m okay, I just haven’t been feeling well the last couple days,” Sundae said. “Eww, the last thing you need is to get the flu right now,” Snow said. “Tell me about it,” Sundae agreed. They perused the racks for a little while and Sundae finally found four dresses to try on. Her mom took the little kids to look at the kids’ dresses and Kimmie and Snow sat by the mirrors to watch Sundae model. The first two dresses turned out to look better on the hanger than on Sundae and the third one was just okay. The last dress was a real standout. It had a full, chiffon skirt with crystal beaded accents and a bodice embroidered with crystals and gold thread. “Wow, Dae. That’s gorgeous,” Kimmie said. “Yeah it is,” Snow agreed as Sundae stepped up onto a platform where she could see herself in the mirrors. As she did she paused, putting a hand to her head and closing her eyes momentarily. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Kimmie asked. Sundae took a couple deep breaths to compose herself. “Yeah, I’m fine,” she said and the started to turn to see herself at different angles. “What’s been bothering you these last couple days? Have you been tired the whole time?” Snow asked. “Not all the time. I think the fatigue’s just caught up with me because my stomach has woken me up too early the last three days,” Sundae said. “Your stomach?” Kimmie asked. “Yeah, it’s really weird. I have to get up and run to the bathroom, but then I’m fine after resting for a while. Even weirder, I’ve been waking up with cravings, too,” Sundae said. Snow looked thoughtful for a moment. She turned to Kimmie. “Can you go see if mom needs help with the little kids? Dae and I need to have a woman talk,” she said. “I am eighteen, you know,” Kimmie said. “Not til August, you’re not,” Snow said. Kimmie rolled her eyes. “Fine,” she muttered as she got up and headed off to find their mom. Once she was out of earshot, Sundae turned to Snow. “What ‘woman talk’?” she asked, putting a hand on her hip. “First, one other quick question about your symptoms. Has anything made you feel queasy, like a smell or a certain food?” she asked. Sundae wrinkled her nose. “Now that you mention it, there was coffee on when I got up this morning and I swore I thought I’d need to run to bathroom again when I smelled it. It only lasted for a second, though. Why?” she asked. Snow sighed. “I need to ask one more thing, but please don’t get mad because it is a little personal,” she said. “What is it?” Sundae asked. “Have you and David…you know…been intimate with each other?” she said. Sundae eyed her for a moment and then caught on to what she was asking. “Snow! That is personal,” she said in a whisper. “I take it that’s a yes?” Snow said. Sundae sighed. “Yeah, but only once, the night before we got engaged,” she said. Snow was thoughtful again for a moment and then smiled. “The timeline fits,” she said. “What are you talking about?” Sundae asked. Snow couldn’t help a smile. “Dae, the symptoms you’ve been having, I had almost the exact same ones when I was um…” she glanced over at the baby seat beside her and the napping nine-month-old therein. Sundae’s eyes went wide. “Oh God, you think I’m…” she gasped. Snow nodded. “It all makes sense, Dae,” she said. Sundae turned away, still stunned. “Oh my God,” she muttered under her breath. What if Snow was right? How would she tell David? How would he react? “You okay?” Snow asked. Sundae shook her head. “How am I going to tell him? If you’re right, how am I going to tell him?” she said, her eyes brimming with tears. “Well first we need to find out if I am right. We’ll hit up a CVS on the way home,” Snow said. Sundae nodded. “Alright,” she said. “Wow, Sundae. You look like a princess,” Destiny’s voice suddenly said. Sundae quickly wiped away her tears as the rest of her family walked up. “Oh honey, that’s beautiful,” her mom said. Sundae turned her attention back to her reflection and studied the dress again. The skirt was a little fuller than she had had in mind, but it wasn’t overly poofy. She also noticed that the bodice had a corset lace in the back, which would come in handy if Snow’s prediction came true. She brushed her hand over the skirt, admiring the beading and noticing how the material was gathered in places, giving the skirt the look of having layers. “This really is stunning,” she said. Kimmie came up behind her and lifted her hair up into a twist. “Picture your hair up with a tiara pinned in and veil hanging down behind you,” she said. Sundae let the image come to mind and she smiled. “You’re right. This is the one,” she said. “Finally,” Destiny muttered. Sundae shook her head. A clerk came up then and Sundae told her to wrap the dress so it would stay nice until August 4th. After they’d finished at the bridal store the group swung by the local drug store to pick up a few necessities and Snow got the test she wanted Sundae to use. Sundae was dropped off at the Archuleta home twenty minutes later and was surprised to see that both cars were gone. When she got inside she found the house almost too quiet. “David? Is anyone home?” she called as she walked into the kitchen. There was no one around, but there was a note on the counter. She picked it up and saw that it was from David. It read,
Hey Dae, We had a couple errands to run, But we should be back soon. We’re bringing dinner So I hope you’ll be hungry. Hope you had a Good time with your family, too. I love you, angel. David Sundae smiled as she read the note and then turned and headed for David’s room still holding it. She was actually relieved that no one was home, as it would give her a chance to use the test Snow had gotten for her without interruption. Once in David’s room she set the note and her purse on the bed and then pulled the test out of the bag she held. She read over the directions on the back of the box and then stepped out of the room and went to the bathroom. She came back ten minutes later holding the test in her hand, a stunned look on her face. Snow had been right. The test was positive. She knew she’d have to go to a doctor to know for sure, but as accurate as the home tests were, it was a pretty sure bet that she was pregnant. Sundae sat down heavily on the edge of the bed, still staring at the test. Tears came to her eyes at the thought of telling David. She was worried out of her mind that this could scare him away. She shoved the test under her pillow and lay down, letting her tears fall on the sheets. She cried softly until she fell asleep, her mind filled with fear over what might happen when she told David the news. Sundae didn’t know how long she’d been sleeping when she felt someone gently rubbing her back. She rolled over and blinked her eyes open to see David sitting on the edge of the bed beside her. “Hey,” she said as she sat up. He took her in his arms and hugged her and she held tight to him, remembering what she had to tell him. He saw the worry in her eyes when they pulled apart. “Are you okay?” he asked. She took a deep breath. “There’s something…I need to tell you,” she said, still feeling shaky. “What’s wrong?” he asked. “You remember how I haven’t been feeling well these last couple days?” she asked. “Yeah, is something wrong? If there is we’ll get you whatever you need,” he said, hugging her gently again. Sundae hugged him back and sniffled slightly. “I’m not sick or anything. I told Snow about the symptoms while we were shopping and…and she had an idea what they were. It turned out she was right,” she gently pulled back again and then put her hand under the pillow and pulled out the test. His eyes widened as he took it and looked at it. Sundae felt the tears come again. “I…I’m pregnant,” she choked out in a whisper. They were quiet for a moment save for her tears. It was nearly a full minute before he reached around her and set the test on the nightstand. She looked up at him then and he drew her into his arms, holding her firmly and securely in his embrace. “Whatever you want, whatever you need, Dae, you’ll get it,” he said. She pulled back and looked up at him. “You…you mean that? You’re not upset?” she asked. He softly kissed the tip of her nose and lifted his hands to smooth back her hair. “I never could be” he beamed, “An angel of our own, Dae. How could I be upset?” he asked. Her smile grew to match his and she threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. “I love you. I love you so much,” she said. “I love you, too, and I’ll see to it that you and our angel have anything and everything you could want or need,” he said. They held onto each other for several minutes, reveling in the moment. He gently planted kisses on the top of her head and then pulled back enough to trail more kisses across her forehead. He leaned his forehead against hers, the tips of their noses lightly touching. “Would you like to eat back here?” he asked. She nodded. “That’d be nice. Some quiet would be good tonight,” she said. He smiled and brushed a soft but passionate kiss against her lips, before getting up and going to get their dinner. She sat up a little more and kicked off her shoes, which she’d left on earlier. She then stretched her arms up over her head, smiling at the thought that David was happy about the baby. She laid one hand on her still flat stomach, her smile growing. “I hope you know what an amazing father you have,” she said. “And an amazing mom,” came David’s voice from behind her and she turned to see him standing by the door, two plates of Chinese food in hand. “You’re the amazing one. I was so scared you’d be upset about this,” she said. He came over to the bed, set the plates on the other nightstand and sat beside her. He then took hold of her hands and pulled her to him, holding her close in his arms. “It does seem sudden, but I could never be upset. I knew you were the one from the moment I first kissed you. There’s nothing I want more than for us to be married and have a family,” he said. “A beautiful family,” she murmured, holding tight to him. After a moment they pulled apart and he gently brushed her hair back from her face. He then tenderly kissed the tip of her nose and she giggled lightly. She then turned her attention to the two plates of food sitting nearby. “This looks good,” she said as she picked up the plates and handed him one. “Yeah, my mom wondered when I said we were eating back here, but I told her you were a little worn out from shopping,” he said. She smiled and slid over so they could both sit and lean on the pillows while they ate. “Did you have fun shopping?” David asked as he settled beside her. “Yeah, I did and I did manage to find a dress,” Sundae said. “Oh?” David asked. Sundae giggled. “Yes, and it’s at my mom’s so you can’t peek,” she said. He chuckled and snapped his fingers in a ‘darn’ gesture and she laughed lightly and kissed him on the cheek before turning her attention back to her dinner plate. They relaxed and enjoyed their meal of orange chicken and steamed vegetables on rice and then set their plates aside and cuddled together, talking quietly about the new development in their lives. “So, when do you want to tell our parents?” David asked. “Well, I’m thinking I should go to the doctor first. The home tests are really accurate, but it never hurts to get a professional diagnosis,” she said. “Can’t argue with that,” David said. He rested his hand on her stomach and she smiled. “Would you like a boy or a girl?” she asked. “As long as he or she is ours either way is fine,” he said. Sundae smiled and reached up, laying her hand alongside his face. He leaned in then and their lips met in a slow and tender caress. His arms wound around her, pulling her closer and her arms slipped up around his shoulders. Neither of them could’ve been happier. Now they had even more to look forward to in their life together.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:11:08 GMT -5
Chapter 10 After a little more discussion Sundae and David decided it would be best to go to the doctor as soon as possible. They both knew that the pregnancy could, and probably would, affect their wedding plans so they wanted to find out for certain so that they could plan appropriately. David found the name of the doctor his mom had gone to when she was pregnant with his youngest sister, Amber, and they set the appointment for the Tuesday of the coming week. The doctor’s office was located in nearby Sandy, where David had lived during his ‘Star Search’ days, and, on Tuesday morning, he and Sundae drove over there, telling their families that they were going out for brunch. Sundae was a little anxious as they drove. “You okay?” David asked as they rolled along the highway toward Sandy. “Yeah, just a little nervous, I guess,” she said. He reached over and patted her knee. “You’ll be fine,” he said. She smiled. “I know, as long as you’re with me,” she said. He moved his hand and took hold of hers, squeezing her fingers gently. She kept hold of his hand for the rest of the drive, her nerves still getting to her. They pulled up to the doctor’s clinic half an hour later and Sundae took a deep breath as David parked the car. He reached for her hand again as he shut off the ignition. “I’m right here with you,” he said. She smiled and squeezed his hand back as they got out of the car. Moments later they stepped into the clinic’s small waiting room and Sundae checked in with the receptionist before sitting with David in a corner of the room. It was only a few minutes before a nurse called Sundae’s name and led them back to an exam room. David held Sundae’s hand as they walked down the hall and the nurse turned toward them as they reached the exam room. “Change into the gown on the bed and Dr. Morgan will be with you in a few minutes,” she said to Sundae as she held open the door. “Thank you,” Sundae said and she and David stepped into the exam room. “You still nervous?” David asked as he closed the door. “A little. To be completely honest, I hadn’t really planned on having kids this young,” Sundae said as she set her purse on a chair and picked up the gown. David came over to her and gently drew her to him. “I didn’t really either, but I couldn’t be happier,” he said. She smiled and hugged him tightly. “You have no idea how happy I am that you feel that way,” she said. They held each other for a moment and then she pulled back and gave him a soft kiss, before going over to a curtained off area to change. When she was finished she put her jeans and shirt with her purse and then got up onto the exam table. David sat beside her and held her hand as they waited. It was only a few minutes before a woman in her 50s with graying brown hair came in. “Good morning, I’m Dr. Morgan. You must be Sundae and David,” she said. Sundae nodded. “Yes, nice to meet you,” she said. The doctor smiled. “I’m guessing from how young you are that this wasn’t planned?” she asked. “It is a surprise, but it is welcome,” David said. Sundae squeezed his hand again and Dr. Morgan nodded. “Well that’s good to know. It says here that you used a home test?” she asked. “Yes, the EPT test. My older sister recommended it,” Sundae said. “Mmm, that’s about the most accurate of the home tests you can get. Do you have an idea of when you could’ve conceived?” Dr. Morgan asked. “Um, I’m thinking the first week of May,” Sundae said. Dr. Morgan nodded again. “In that case we’ll get you set up for a sonogram. If you’re right about the date you should be far enough along for us to confirm that way,” she said. “Alright,” Sundae said. Dr. Morgan handed her a couple forms to sign and, once that was done, she went to get a nurse to help set up the equipment. Fifteen minutes later Sundae lay on the table with her gown lifted up just enough to reveal her stomach. David held her hand and Dr. Morgan ran the sonogram scanner over her stomach. “I wonder if we’ll really be able to see anything. Snow was at least three months along before she had her first sonogram,” Sundae said as David gently stroked her hair. Dr. Morgan smiled. “Since we have digital technology we can see the baby a lot sooner than we used to, and…there it is,” she said holding the scanner in one place and pointing to a small spot on the monitor. The spot was no bigger than a lima bean, but the digital picture showed the definitions of a baby. Sundae cupped her hand over her mouth, unable to keep from beaming. “Oh, wow,” she murmured. David leaned his head close to hers. “Can you believe we created that tiny thing?” he said softly. Sundae beamed even more as she turned toward him. “I know,” she said, reaching up to lay her hand against his cheek. He leaned closer to her, his forehead resting against hers and their noses nearly touching. “Congratulations. It looks like your due date will be in early February and I’ll need to see you back here for regular check-ups as the pregnancy progresses,” Dr. Morgan said. Sundae looked up at that. “Oh, we’re actually just up here visiting our families. We’re living in LA at the moment,” she said. “You should see you regular doctor when you get home then,” Dr. Morgan said as she switched off the monitor and handed Sundae a towel to wipe the gel off her stomach. Sundae smiled as David helped her sit up. “I will, thank you so much,” she said. Dr. Morgan nodded. “I’ll let you change and I’ll be back with your paper work,” she said and then stepped from the room. David helped Sundae down from the table and she picked up her shirt and jeans. She then stepped closer to David, leaned up and kissed him softly. “I love you,” she murmured. “I love you, too,” he murmured back. She smiled at him and then turned to go and change.
An hour later Sundae and David were on their way back to Murray, both elated at the confirmation that they were indeed expecting their first child. Sundae leaned back in her seat, a glowing smile on her face. David smiled at her as he drove. “I take it you’re even happier now,” he said. Sundae’s smile widened. “I am. I’m already thinking of names and what I’d like in the nursery,” she said. “I am, too. I’m also thinking our moms will be ecstatic,” he said. Sundae giggled. “Yeah, they will be, yours more so, I think. My mom has two grandkids. This’ll be the first for yours,” she said. “True and my grandparents will be excited, too, Abuelita especially,” he said. Sundae smiled even more, and turned to look out at the passing scenery. They were driving through a pretty community, similar to Murray, but Sundae knew they weren’t that close to home yet. “Do you know what town this is?” she asked. David thought a moment. “I think it’s Taylorsville. It’s the last stop before Murray,” he said. “It looks nice,” Sundae said, noting the pretty houses they were passing. “How ‘bout we pull off and find some lunch and then drive around. I haven’t seen much of this town either,” he said. Sundae smiled. “That’d be nice,” she said. “Then that’s the plan,” he said as he changed lanes and got off at the next exit. The two grabbed lunch from a nearby takeout Thai place and then drove around looking at the neighborhood. It was quiet and peaceful and well maintained. It was just the kind of small town Sundae had always pictured living in. They stopped for a few minutes by a park to finish their lunch and Sundae looked over toward the playground, watching a few children climbing around on the equipment. “It’s nice here, isn’t it?” David suddenly said. “Yeah, it is. It’s a lot like what I always pictured,” Sundae said. “Like what you pictured?” David asked. “Remember when we came to Murray during top-three week and we were talking about wanting to live somewhere other than LA?” Sundae asked. “Oh yeah, that’s right, you did say you’d like small town,” David said. Sundae nodded. “This looks like it would be a nice place to raise kids,” she said, looking back over to the playground. He followed her gaze and smiled, seeing the children at play. “Yeah, it does,” he said. A few minutes later they were on their way again, this time driving through the neighborhood surrounding the park. The houses were a lot like those in David’s neighborhood in Murray, but slightly smaller and a little older. The trees were all well matured and shaded the yards and sidewalks on both sides of the street. “This really is nice. I wonder what the houses go for around here,” Sundae mused. “I don’t know, but it’s something we could look into,” David said. Sundae smiled as she leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. As she pulled back her gaze fell on a house across the street from them, a pretty two story with a short, wooden fence surrounding the yard. A ‘for sale’ sign beside the fence caught her eye. “That one has a sign,” she said, pointing toward the house. He looked over and smiled as well. “That’s nice,” he said and pulled over to the curb. “Want a closer look?” he asked as he shut off the car. Sundae smiled. “You read my mind,” she said as they got out of the car. He locked up and then took hold of her hand as they crossed the street. They walked up to the fence and stood looking at the house. It was pretty gray blue two story with two big trees shading the yard. A bed of roses under the front window was in full bloom and a little table and chairs sat on the small front porch. “This is so sweet,” Sundae said as they gazed around the yard. “A lot like what you imagined, isn’t it?” David said. Sundae looked up at him. “You remember when we talked about our future houses?” she asked him. He nodded. “Even though we were pretty young, I knew everything we were talking about would happen someday,” he said, slipping his arm around her and pulling her close. She beamed as she leaned her head on his shoulder. “So did I,” she said. The sound of the door opening caught their attention, and they turned to see a lady in her sixties step out of the house onto the porch, a small dog at her feet. The dog started barking when it saw Sundae and David. “Max, hush,” the lady said. “We should probably go,” Sundae said to David and he nodded. “Oh, don’t mind Max. He barks at everything. Was there something I could help you with?” the lady asked. “We just noticed the ‘for sale’ sign and stopped to look. We didn’t mean to disturb you, ma’am,” David said. “It’s no disruption. I needed to let Max out anyway. Are you two in the market?” the lady asked. Sundae looked up at David and they both smiled. “Well, we could be, we haven’t really talked about it yet. We’re soon to be married so that’s taking up most of our time,” Sundae said. The lady smiled. “Aw, congratulations to you,” she said. “Thank you,” David said. “Would you two like a tour?” the lady asked. Sundae and David looked to each other again. “You’d like that, wouldn’t you?” David said. “If it’s not too much trouble?” Sundae said. David smiled. “Nothing’s too much trouble for you,” he looked to the lady, “A tour would be nice, thank you,” he said as he led Sundae toward the front gate. The lady met them there and opened the gate to let them in. “The pleasure’s mine. My name’s Francine, by the way,” she said. “I’m Sundae and this is my fiancée, David. It’s nice to meet you,” Sundae said. “You, too. Come on in,” Francine said and led the way up to the front door of the house. She went inside and Sundae and David followed her, Max the dog at their heels. The front entry of the house opened into a cozy living room with a fireplace and cream-colored walls and Sundae could see the kitchen and dining room just beyond the sofa. “Well come on in, no need to be shy. This is the living room and through here is the kitchen,” Francine said and lead the way in that direction. The kitchen had clean white walls with a painted border, wide counter tops and a stove with a big oven. A window was positioned over the sink looking out into the large backyard. “Wow, this is really nice,” Sundae remarked as she admired the view of the yard. “Yes it is. I’ll miss it when I leave,” Francine said. “What made you decide to move? If you don’t mind my asking,” David asked. “It’s alright. I’ve lived here alone, well except for Max, since my husband died. The cold of the winter gets to me a lot more now that I’m older and when my daughter in Arizona suggested I move down there where it’s warmer, who was I to refuse. I’ll be closer to her and my grandchildren as well, so the move will be worth it, but I will miss the memories,” Francine said, looking around her as she finished. “That’s understandable. The home we’re living in in LA is my family home. I was born and raised there and it’d be hard to leave it, too,” Sundae said. Francine nodded. “Yes, but no matter how hard it may be, you have to do what’s best for you,” she said. Both Sundae and David nodded in agreement. Francine smiled. “Come on, I’ll show you the rest,” she said and led the way back into the living room and over to a flight of stairs, with a hallway off of one side. “The den and a small office as well as a half bathroom are down that hall, and the bedrooms are upstairs,” she said and led the way up to the second floor of the house. The second floor hallway was painted cream, like the downstairs and Sundae and David could see four doors, two on the right, one on the left and one at the end. Francine pointed to each door as she led them along. “The door at the end is a full bathroom, these two,” pointing to the two doors on the right, “used to be my children’s rooms, and this is the master bedroom,” she said as she walked up to the lone door on the left and opened it, leading them inside. The master bedroom was painted a warm gold and was spacious enough to have a queen-size bed, a cedar chest, a chest of drawers, a bookshelf, two nightstands, a desk, and closet situated in it. A second full bathroom faced the bed and a sliding door led out onto a small patio. Sundae stepped over and peeked into the bathroom and saw that it held a wide vanity, a sunken in tub and a standing shower. David came up beside her and she smiled at him. “Nice, isn’t it?” he said. “Yeah, it is. Let’s go see the view,” she said. He nodded and they stepped over to the sliding door. David slid it open and they stepped out onto the patio and saw a small table and two chairs. “My husband and I had this patio added after we retired. We liked being able to watch the sunset in the evening,” Francine said as she came to stand at the door. “It’s really nice and the yard is huge,” David said. “The yard and gardens were my husband’s pride and joy,” Francine said. David looked out at the yard and Sundae had to smile at the twinkle in his eyes. “I can just see you playing around with Teddy out here,” she said. “Yeah, or barbequing on a hot night. The back porch would be great for summer dinners,” David said. Sundae looked down and saw a spacious patio that she knew could be easily furnished with a grill and outdoor dinette set. There looked to be room enough for an outdoor fireplace and even a small hot tub, as well. The yard itself was landscaped with three large trees, flowerbeds with blossoming shrubs, and a small vegetable patch. She smiled. “I can definitely see having family time out here,” she said. “My grandchildren love the yard. The trees are their favorite jungle gym,” Francine said. Sundae giggled. “My little brothers and sisters would be the same way,” she said as she and David stepped away from the railing and walked back over to the door. Francine stood aside and let them in and then pulled the door closed behind them. “Could we possibly see one of the other bedrooms?” Sundae asked. “Oh, sure,” Francine said and led the way out of the master bedroom. She then walked over to the bedroom directly across from it and opened the door. “I use the other room for a sewing room and this one is the guest room,” she said as Sundae and David stepped in behind her. Sundae’s eyes lit up when she saw the room. It was painted a creamy yellow and had two windows, one of which looked out over the front yard and neighborhood. Sundae walked around the room, imagining how it would look as a nursery. David came up beside her, slipping his arms around her waist and noticed the light her eyes. “What are you thinking?” he asked. She smiled. “Can’t you picture a crib right there,” she pointed to the corner between the windows, “and a rocking chair by the big window and a little shelf with toys?” she murmured, laying her hand on her stomach. He smiled, covering her hand with his own. “Yeah, I can see that and maybe add a little mobile above the crib and lace curtains on the windows and little pictures of teddy bears on the walls,” he said. She beamed as she leaned into him. “Forgive me, but are you two expecting?” Francine asked from behind them. Sundae and David turned around to see her standing by the door. Sundae smiled in response to her question. “We just found out this morning,” she said. Francine smiled. “Congratulations to you. That’s wonderful,” she said. “Thank you. We were picturing this room as a nursery,” David said. Francine nodded. “My realtor thought the same thing when I first showed him the house,” she said. Sundae looked around the room again, imagining holding her baby and singing a lullaby with the moonlight shining in from the windows. “I noticed the garage out front as we drove up. How big is it?” David asked, breaking into her thoughts. “It holds two cars, though I use it mostly for laundry and storage. There’s a basement downstairs, too, if you’d like to see it,” Francine said. “That’d be great, thank you,” David said. Francine nodded and led them out of the bedroom and back downstairs. She then led the way back into the kitchen and over to a door they hadn’t noticed earlier. She opened it revealing another flight of stairs and led the way down, switching on a light as they reached the bottom of the stairs. “It’s a little cluttered right now, but I’m sure it could be used as rec room or something of the sort,” Francine said. Sundae and David both lit up as they looked around the small room. There were quite a few boxes, but the acoustics were great, exactly what a small in-home studio should have. “Honey, can you imagine having a studio down here? It’d be perfect,” Sundae said. “Yeah, it would be. I can tell from the way our voices sound that you’re right,” he said. “What do you mean by ‘a studio’?” Francine asked. “We’re both musicians and we’ve always liked the idea of a basement studio for recording,” Sundae said. Francine nodded. “I can see that working down here,” she said as she led them back up the stairs. The phone was ringing as they came back into the kitchen and Francine made her way over to the handset on the counter. “Make yourselves comfortable in the living room if you’d like,” she said as she picked up the handset. Sundae and David nodded and slipped past her and into the living room to give her privacy. Once in the living room Sundae and David sat together on the couch, looking around. “This is a really nice house,” David remarked. “Yeah, it is and it’s amazing how much it’s like what we had pictured when we were younger,” Sundae said. “Do you think you could like it here?” David asked. Sundae smiled. “Yeah, I do. It’s a great neighborhood and the house is perfect for a family. Not to mention it’s close to our families so we’d always have a babysitter when we need one,” she said. He chuckled. “You make a good point on that one,” he said. Sundae looked around the room again and beyond into the kitchen. “I can already picture how I can decorate this place,” she said. He hugged her gently and she leaned her head on his shoulder. A few minutes later Francine came in, having finished her phone call. “Is there anything else I can show you?” she asked. David and Sundae looked to each other for a moment and then David looked back to Francine. “Could we possibly get your realtor’s number? We’d like to make an offer on the house,” he said. Francine smiled. “Absolutely. Give me a minute and I’ll get his card,” she said and turned and went back into the kitchen. “You’re really serious?” Sundae asked. David turned to her and couldn’t help a smile at the glow in her face. “Yeah I am. I think this is the perfect place to start our life together,” he said. She reached to hug him and he held her close to him. “Have I told you I love you?” she asked. “Not since this morning,” he said. She giggled lightly. “Well, I do. I love you always and forever,” she said, leaning her forehead against his. “I love you, too, Dae,” he said, kissing the tip of her nose. A scuffling sound made them look up and they saw Francine coming back into the room, a business card in her hand. “I wrote the address of the house on the back so you can tell him which property you’re interested in,” she said, handing the card to David. “Thank you. We’ll be in touch,” he said as he and Sundae stood up. “I look forward to it,” Francine said as she led them to the door. Sundae and David thanked her again and then headed out the door and walked back to their car. They looked back at the house as they stepped up to the car doors. “So, how are we going to explain this one to the ‘rents?” Sundae asked as she leaned against the car. David chuckled. “We’ll just tell them our dreams are coming true,” he said as he unlocked the car. Sundae smiled as they got in. She wondered what their parents would say to this development on top of the baby, but, at the moment, she was too happy to care.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:11:52 GMT -5
Chapter 11 Over the next couple of days Sundae and David continued with their planning and also discussed how they’d tell their parents about the new developments in their lives. On Friday Sundae went and spent the day with her family, since she hadn’t had time with them in a while and she thought the down time would help her thought processes in regards to the planning. Her older siblings had flown up by this time and it was the first time in a while that the entire Wahlberg clan had been together under one roof. With there being eighteen people now, it was a pretty noisy gathering, but it was still fun, especially with three generations in the mix. Sundae enjoyed playing with her younger siblings and also her niece and nephew. Holding them made her think about what it would be like to hold her own baby. The feeling was especially strong when she held nine-month-old Maddie. As she sat with the baby in the quiet of the living room, Sundae even started picturing what her baby would look like; a cuddly little bundle with a full head of dark hair, her smile and David’s bright hazel eyes and soft cheeks. She couldn’t help a smile at these thoughts. “I wonder what kind of cousin you’ll be?” she murmured to Maddie as she cuddled her gently. Snow happened to come into the living room at that point and joined her on the sofa. “Hey, enjoying some cuddle time?” she asked. Sundae smiled. “Yeah, I am. She’s so sweet,” she said. Snow started to smile, too, but then looked up in remembrance. “Hey, I meant to ask, did you use that test we bought?” she asked. Sundae looked over at her. “Pinky swear you won’t tell mom and dad?” she asked. Snow lit up. “Yes, does that mean…?” she asked. Sundae grinned. “Mmmhmm, we went to the doctor to be sure and it looks like this one will have a new cousin early next year,” she said. Snow hugged her happily. “Congratulations and I promise I’ll let you tell the ‘rents,” she said. “Thanks,” Sundae said. “So, I take it David’s happy?” Snow asked. “Yeah, he is. I was really worried he wouldn’t be, but he is. It just makes me love him even more,” Sundae said. Snow smiled. “He’s an amazing guy, Dae, and we all know it. You really lucked out,” she said. Sundae couldn’t help beaming. “I know I did,” she said. A little after five that afternoon, Sundae was coloring with Pleshette at the dining room table when her mom came in followed by David. “Someone’s here to see you,” her mom said and then stepped away and went into the kitchen, presumably to start dinner. Sundae set aside the crayon she’d been using and took hold of David’s outstretched hand, letting him pull her up and into his arms. “Did you have a good day?” he asked, hugging her to him. “Yeah, I did. It’s been nice having the whole family together since it’s been a while. What did you do all day?” she asked him. “I ran a few errands including…” he reached into his shirt pocket and brought out an envelope, which he handed to her. She took it and opened it to find a very official looking document inside- a deed of ownership. “David, is this for…?” she started to ask. He smiled and pulled a Polaroid photograph from his pocket as well, which showed the house they had looked at three days earlier. “It’s the deed to our new house. The realtor spoke to Francine and she said she can be moved out by July if we so wish,” he said. A beaming smile spread across Sundae’s face and she hugged David tightly. “Oh my gosh,” she said. “There’s still a little more paperwork, but it’s pretty much ours,” he said. Sundae pulled back to look at him and laid one hand against his face. “You’re incredible,” she said. He smiled. “I also called Pastor Wilkins and he has time to see us tomorrow, if that works for you,” he said. She beamed even more. “It’s perfect and maybe we could even get the ‘rents together for dinner and fill them in, too,” he said. He nodded. “That’d be good,” he said. She leaned up and gave him a soft kiss and then turned to her mom, who was bustling around the kitchen. “Hey, mom, we’re thinking dinner tomorrow night, you and Dad, Jeff and Lupe and us?” she said. “Sure, just let us know when and where,” her mom said. “Great, I’ll call you tomorrow with the details,” she said. Her mom nodded. “Alright, honey. It was nice having you over today,” she said. Sundae smiled. “It was nice being here,” she said. She then bent over and kissed Pleshette on the cheek. “See you later, sweetie,” she said. Pleshette gave her a kiss, too, and Sundae then let David lead her from the house.
The next day Sundae and David drove over to his church to meet with Pastor Wilkins about their wedding plans. They went in through the main doors and decided to stop into the chapel for a minute. David held the door for Sundae as they stepped in and she smiled as she looked around, imagining the chapel decorated for the ceremony. David came up behind her and slipped his arms around her waist, hugging her to him. “I forgot how nice your chapel is,” she said, looking out at the six sections of pews with an aisle down the middle. In front of them was a small stage with a pulpit and risers for the choir. Sunlight streamed in through the windows on the right side of the room and portraits depicting scenes from both the Bible and the Book of Mormon hung on the walls. “It is nice and I really am glad you like it so much,” David said. “Yeah, and it’ll be beautiful when it’s decorated, too, with baskets of flowers and a white carpet down the aisle,” Sundae said. “And maybe some white ribbon on the sides of the pews and candles near the altar,” David said. Sundae beamed and turned her head and nuzzled against his chest. “I can’t wait,” she murmured, leaning into him. “Me either,” he agreed. They stood and daydreamed for a few minutes and then turned, went back out into the front hall, and then walked down the corridor to Pastor Wilkins’ office. The offices all lined one side of the hallway and Pastor Wilkins’ was the third door they came to. David tapped on the door as they walked up. “Come in,” came a man’s voice from inside. David opened the door and he and Sundae stepped in and saw Pastor Wilkins, man in his late forties with graying brown hair sitting at his desk. He looked up as they came in and smiled warmly, seeing them. “Well, two of my very favorite people. Come in, come in,” he said, getting up to greet them. He offered them each a welcoming handshake and then gestured for them to sit in the chairs in front of his desk. “So, David, you didn’t really give me a reason for this meeting when you called yesterday,” Pastor Wilkins said as he resumed his seat. “I know. I kind of wanted for us all to be together,” David said. “Alright, we’re all together now. What’s going on?” Pastor Wilkins asked. “Well…” Sundae said and held out her hand to show him her ring. Pastor Wilkins smiled. “Ah, congratulations to you,” he looked to David, “I guess you decided to listen to the advice I gave you,” he said. David nodded. “Yeah, I did and it was very worth it,” he said. Pastor Wilkins nodded. “I’m glad I could help,” he said. “We’re hoping you can help again. We’d like to have the ceremony here,” David said. Pastor Wilkins smiled even wider. “Our chapel is at your service. What date did you have in mind?” he asked. “August 4th,” David said. Pastor Wilkins brought up his August calendar on his computer and made a notation on the date. “You’re all locked in. I’ll make sure everyone knows that day is booked,” he said. “Thank you. We were also hoping for one other thing. We’d both like it very much if you’d perform the ceremony,” Sundae said. Pastor Wilkins had a hard time controlling his smile at that. “I’d be honored,” he said. “Thank you, Pastor. It means a lot to us,” David said. Pastor Wilkins smiled even more and made a note of the date on his personal calendar. The three talked for a little while longer and then Sundae and David excused themselves to go get ready for their dinner with their parents. As they came out of the Church and started toward their car, Sundae turned to David. “What did he mean about you taking his advice?” she asked. David turned to her as well. “Walk with me for a minute?” he asked. She nodded and they walked over to the open lawn on the side of the building. “I came to see Pastor Wilkins right after I came back from my mission. Remember how I told you I had to clear something up with the church?” David asked. “Yeah, I remember that,” Sundae said. “Well, it wasn’t that I had to clear something up. We’d been apart for so long and I was scared of what would happen if I just suddenly showed up in your life again. I didn’t think I had any reason to believe you would’ve waited for me,” he said. Sundae gently turned him toward her. “When I said I would wait for you, I meant it. I love you more than anything, David. I would’ve waited all my life if I had to,” she said. He smiled a little. “I love you, too, Dae, but I could never ask you to wait forever. I could never put you through that. I was nervous enough about seeing you again when I got the call for ‘Idol’ and that’s part of why I talked to Pastor Wilkins. He told me that I had to try or I’d never know for sure,” he said. Sundae nodded. “ And what was the other part?” she asked. “That needs a little more explanation, so I hope I don’t start rambling,” David said. Sundae smiled. “I’ve told you I don’t mind that,” she said. He smiled a little, too. “Do you believe in soul mates?” he asked. Her smile grew. “Ever since I met you,” she said. He managed to smile a little more. “Well um, in Mormonism we believe in something very similar called eternal companions. It actually really is the same thing. Two souls destined to be together for all eternity. We’re taught that we’ll know our eternal companion when we see our soul in their eyes. The night we first kissed, Dae, I saw my soul in your eyes. It actually scared me a little because I wasn’t expecting it. I couldn’t get it out of my mind,” he said. “Really?” Sundae asked. David nodded. “I never rejoined the other guys that night. I just went back to the apartment I was sharing with Jason, Chikizie and my dad to think. My dad was still up when I got there and he knew right away something was up,” he said. Flashback: February 2008 Seventeen-year-old David slipped quietly into his apartment at the ‘Idol’ complex, not wanting to wake his dad if he was asleep. He leaned against the door for a moment after shutting and locking it. The last hour he’d spent with Sundae had shaken him deeply. “Back so soon?” a male voice asked from behind him. David jumped and whirled around to see his dad sitting on the couch behind him, looking up from the book he’d been reading. “Hey, dad. I thought you might be sleeping,” David said. His dad shook his head. “Nope, still awake,” he eyed David closely, “Everything alright? You look a little unnerved. Did the other guys say something that upset you?” he asked. “No, it’s not that. I was just with Dae,” David said. “Did she do something?” his dad asked. “No, no, she didn’t. It’s just…remember how in church Pastor Wilkins told us about eternal companions and how we’d know when we found them?” David asked. “Yeah, I remember that. Why?” his dad asked. David sighed. “I saw it, dad, with Dae. Pastor Wilkins said I’d know my companion when I saw my soul in her eyes. I saw it in Dae’s,” he said. His dad set aside his book. “Come here, son,” he said, sliding over and patting the couch next to him. David stepped over and sat down. “I kind of thought it might be her,” his dad said. David looked at him in surprise. “You did?” he asked. His dad chuckled. “I’m not blind, you know. I’ve seen the way you guys are together and the way you look at her,” he said. David sighed. “Maybe, but…I’m scared,” he said. “And that’s normal. You’re a few years younger than I was when I found your mom,” his dad said. “Yeah, but there’s another thing,” David said. “What’s that?” his dad asked. “I…I’d always thought that she’d be Mormon,” David said. His dad laughed and David looked over at him, almost indignantly. “It isn’t funny. I’m really confused here,” he said. His dad patted his shoulder. “I’m not laughing for the humor, I’m laughing for the irony. Did you ever think before all this happened that you’d ever leave Utah?” he asked. “Well no,” David said. “Then it doesn’t surprise me that you’d expect to end up with a Mormon girl. I thought the same way until I met your mom,” his dad said. David again looked up in surprise. “Contrary to what you might think, your mom wasn’t born Mormon. She was born and raised Catholic, like many Latinos. She converted when she was just a little younger than you,” his dad said. “I didn’t know that,” David said, still sounding surprised. “We never saw it as an obstacle and you shouldn’t either. I can tell Sundae means a lot to you. So don’t let your fear get in the way of that. Talk with God. Ask Him to let you know if it’s right. He did for me and I’ve never regretted that decision,” his dad said. David managed a small smile. “Thanks, dad,” he stood up from the couch, “I’m gonna go get ready for bed now,” he said and started toward the hall that led to the bedrooms. “I hope it all works out for you, son,” his dad said. David smiled a little more. “Thanks, dad,” he said and then turned and disappeared down the hallway. End Flashback “I must’ve talked with God for almost two hours that night. I asked Him to let me know in some way, no matter how small, that I was making the right choice. I felt really peaceful when I woke up the next morning. When you got to our classroom later I felt this jolt in my heart. And when you sat down next to me and took hold of my hand under the table my whole body tingled and I knew God was telling me it was right,” David said. Sundae slipped her arm around him, hugging him gently. “I think God’s spoken to both of us through those tingles and that’s why we always get them. He’s telling us we’re where we should be,” she said. “Yeah, and I’m so glad He brought us back together. I don’t know what I’d do if I had to face life without you,” he said. Sundae gently touched his cheek and he met her gaze to see her eyes shining with happy tears. “I couldn’t live without you, either,” she said. He leaned in and kissed her softly and hugged her tightly to him. She returned the hug just as tightly feeling deeply grateful that God had seen fit to bring them back together. She didn’t know what she would’ve done if He hadn’t.
Later that evening Sundae and David sat down to dinner with their parents. They talked over the wedding plans as well as Sundae and David going back to LA to take care of some things there. They were relaxing in the living room between dinner and dessert, when Sundae and David started to think it was time to tell their parents the really big news. “It seems like things are coming together really well,” her mom said, getting their attention. Sundae nodded. “Yeah,” she looked to David and he nodded, “There are a couple things we still need to tell you,” she said. “Oh, like what?” his dad asked. “Well, for one, we’ve decided to move back here to Utah permanently,” David said. “Really?” his mom asked. “Yeah, and we’ve actually already found a house,” Sundae said. All four parents were surprised at that. “You’ve found a house already?” her dad asked. David brought out the Polaroid from his pocket and held it out. “It’s over in Taylorsville, so we’ll be close by. The neighborhood’s really nice and we think we’ll be able to move in by the end of July,” he said as their parents looked at the photo. “Oh, this is so pretty,” her mom said. “It’s beautiful,” his mom agreed. Their dads agreed, too. “You’re sure you’ll be able to move in by July?” Her dad asked. “The lady we’re buying from said she can be moved out by then and that’s part of our need to get back to LA, so we can get our stuff ready. We’ve talked to Misty and he said he’ll keep our LA house, since there’s room for the family and for him to have an in-home music school. Kimmie said she might stay there, too, since she’s going to UCLA this fall. It all seems to work out,” Sundae said. Their parents smiled. “Whatever help you guys need, just let us know and we’re there,” his dad said. Sundae and David smiled. “Thanks you guys,” David said and Sundae nodded. She then bit her lip, thinking about the other piece of news she and David had. “There’s one more little thing you should know, but we’re both a little nervous as to what you’ll all say,” she said. “Is something wrong?” her dad asked. “No, it’s good news, but it was a little unexpected,” Sundae said. Their parents all leaned forward curiously. David looked to his mom. “Mami, do you think you’re ready to be abuelita?” he asked. His mom clapped her hands over her mouth in stunned shock. His dad and her parents were also stunned. “Mijo…do you really mean…?” his mom started to ask. David and Sundae nodded. “The doctor said I’m due in February. We’re already thinking of names,” Sundae said. Their moms jumped up from their chairs and grabbed Sundae and David up in huge hugs. His mom pulled back after a moment, tears of joy in her eyes. “I’m really going to be abuelita?” she asked. “Yeah, mom,” David said. His mom hugged him again and his dad came up and hugged them both. Her parents were just as happy. “I know this isn’t the first time doing this for us, but we’re so happy for you honey,” her mom said. Sundae smiled and looked to her dad, who came up and hugged her tightly. “Dad, I know what you’ve always said,” she said. Her dad tilted her head so she was looking at him. “I know you’re ready for this. What you and David have is incredibly special and your mom and I couldn’t be happier to see you two so happy together,” he said. Sundae felt tears come to her own eyes and she reached up and hugged her dad tightly. “I love you, daddy,” she giggled lightly, “And look at it this way, another grandbaby for you guys to spoil rotten,” she said. “And you know that’s what we do best,” her mom said, joining the hug.
Later that night, Sundae was lying in bed waiting for David to join her. She couldn’t help but smile at the thought of the last few hours. She couldn’t believe their parents were so happy with their news, but she couldn’t be happier that they were. The bed shifted then and she looked over to see David stretching out beside her. She rolled to face him and cuddled up to him as he wrapped his arms around her. “Happy?” he asked. “More than I could’ve ever dreamed. I still can’t believe our parents are so happy with everything,” she said. “I can’t believe it either, but it just adds to how amazing this all is. We’re living our dreams,” he said. She slipped her arms up around him and hugged him tightly. “And I hope we never wake up,” she said. He reached around and shut off the light, before pulling her as close as he could and kissing the top of her head. “Me, too,” he murmured and she nuzzled her face against his chest as they drifted off to sleep, the bliss of their happiness surrounding them.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:12:18 GMT -5
Chapter 12 The next week Sundae and David went back to LA to get their things packed for the move and take care of a few final details for the wedding. Sundae took Cara, Dana and Jordin shopping for dresses and she and David planned a get together with their ‘Idol’ friends, Brooke White, Dave Cook, Jason Castro and Michael Johns. David had decided on Dave, Michael and Jason as well as his best school friend, Adam, to be his groomsmen. Adam knew and had a tux all picked out, but Dave, Michael and Jason still needed to be told. They didn’t even know that David was back in town, so there was a lot of catching up to do. Sundae decided to make dinner again and Dana, Cara, Jordin and the twins made themselves scarce so they wouldn’t interfere. Sundae and David tidied up the house except for their room, which was full of boxes for the move, and had dinner; a stuffed roast chicken with potatoes, gravy and vegetables cooking when the doorbell rang, announcing their friends’ arrival. “I’ll get the door,” David said, seeing that Sundae was preoccupied filling bowls with snack mix. “Thank you, sweetheart,” she said, beaming at him. “Anything for you, my angel,” David said, and gave her a soft kiss before heading for the door. Sundae finished filling the bowls and then went over to the pantry to put away the bags of snack mix. “Ahhh!” she heard Dave yell excitedly from the hall, and she laughed as she put the bags away and brushed off her hands on a towel before heading out to the front entryway. She got there in time to see David being nearly smothered in hugs from their friends. Brooke had him at the moment in a huge, mothering hug and was covering his cheek in kisses. “Ohhh, it’s so good to see you,” she said, squeezing him tightly. “Brooke, get a grip or you’ll squeeze the stuffing out of him,” Michael said. Brooke let go and Michael then grabbed David up, lifting him off his feet in a giant bear hug. David just laughed and Sundae giggled at the scene. “Where have you been, kid? We thought you dropped off the face of the Earth,” Michael said as he set David down. “It seemed like it for a while there,” David agreed. “Well, we’re glad to see you alive,” Jason said, giving him a friendly hug. David giggled and Dave slung an arm around his shoulders. “But seriously, Arch, don’t ever disappear like that again,” he said. “I don’t intend to,” David said. “You guys done with your little reunion?” Sundae asked then, announcing her presence. The group turned, smiles coming to all their faces when they saw her. “Hey Dae, lookin’ good,” Jason said. “Why thank you,” Sundae said as she came up beside David. He slipped his arm around her and hugged her to him. “Good to see you, Dae, and we’re done with the antics for now,” Dave said. Sundae smiled. “Good to know. I’d like to keep my fiancée in one piece, if you don’t mind,” she said. Dave, Brooke, Michael and Jason all gaped at them. Sundae and David both giggled at their expressions. “Don’t act so surprised, you knew it was coming,” Sundae said and held up her hand to show her ring. “Ahhh!” Dave yelled again, drawing laughter all around. “You sneaky son of a gun,” he said, grabbing David up in another hug. “Congratulations,” Brooke said, giving Sundae a big hug. She and David traded hugs with everyone again and then led the way into the living room. “So, when did all this come about?” Brooke asked. “In early may when we co-mentored for ‘Idol’. We were surprised at first to see each other again, but everything’s worked out perfectly,” Sundae said. “Yeah, and it’s actually a big part of why we asked you all over. Dave, Mike, Jase, I was hoping you guys would be my groomsmen,” David said as they all sat down. Dave, Michael and Jason all grinned. “Are you serious, Arch?” Dave asked. “Absolutely, you guys are like my brothers,” David said. The three guys smiled. “We’re touched, Arch, and we’d be honored. Do you have a date picked out?” Michael asked. “Yeah, August 4th,” David said. “That’s coming up pretty quick,” Brooke commented. “True, but we’ve got pretty much everything planned. My mom should be mailing the invites this next week and, of course, you and the rest of our group are on the list, Brooke,” Sundae said. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Brooke said. Sundae smiled and then went and got the snack bowls and the group continued talking while dinner continued to cook. They caught up on each other’s lives, Michael and Dave showed off pictures of their kids, and Sundae and David showed off the picture of their new house. “Wow, you guys really have everything planned out,” Michael commented. “Yeah, you’ve got all the details of the wedding taken care of, and you’ve got a house waiting for you. It sounds like the fairy tale you guys always wanted,” Brooke agreed. “It is and Dave, Mike, since you guys have been there, I’m hoping you’ll also have first-time dad advice for me. I’m excited, but a little nervous, too,” David said, squeezing Sundae’s hand. Four jaws again dropped to the floor. “No freaking way,” Jason stuttered. “Man, Arch, when you set out for your ‘happily ever after’ you really got it, didn’t you?” Michael said, shaking his head in amazement. “Yeah, I did,” David said, turning a loving smile on Sundae. She smiled, too, and kissed his cheek, before being engulfed in another hug from Brooke. Dave also looked amazed, but he smiled and patted David on the shoulder. “Anything you need, man, we’re just a phone call away,” he said. “Thanks,” David said.
Over the next two weeks Sundae and David finalized their arrangements for their move. They planned on taking the furniture in their room with them and would pick out stuff for the rest of the house during the week in between their arrival in back Utah and the arrival of the moving van. Even though it was only a ten-hour drive from LA to Salt Lake they’d timed the delivery of their things to give them time to shop for the rest. They also made sure that Dana, Cara and Jordin were able to get a nice apartment that was convenient for them, since they didn’t want to be in Misty’s way as he set up his music school. Once everything was taken care of in LA Sundae and David loaded up their clothes and a couple boxes of stuff from their room and headed off, driving to Utah in Sundae’s car. Since they had also brought a cooler with them stuffed with snacks and drinks, they managed to drive straight through, stopping only twice for a gas refill and a restroom break. With the straight through drive they got to his parents’ house just after dinner, and put their boxes in the garage before crashing for the night. The next morning when Sundae woke up she looked around David’s room wondering how much of it he would want to take to the new house. She’d almost dozed off again when she felt the bed shift. She rolled over to see that David had woken up and was propping himself up. “Hey,” she murmured, as she cuddled up to him. “Morning, how long have you been awake?” he asked, pulling her close to him. “Only a few minutes. I was just wondering how much you’ll want to take from here to the new house,” she said. “Mom said I can take any or all of it and I had thought we could make a guest room out of some of this stuff,” David said. “That’s true. All I can say is thank goodness I have nice brothers who are willing to play mover for us. The U-haul rental’ll cost enough, forget hiring a moving company,” Sundae said. “Yeah. We really don’t need to here, either. Anything we buy will be delivered by the stores, and we can rent a U-haul here for this stuff,” David said, gesturing around the room. Sundae smiled. “Have I told you how smart you are?” she asked, cuddling closer to him. He smiled. “I try,” he said and kissed her forehead. She wrapped her arms around him, a smile on her face at the thought that they were in Utah to stay.
Over the next week, Sundae and David started shopping for furniture for their house and finalizing their wedding plans. They went to stores in Taylorsville, Murray, and even Sandy, as well as a couple in Salt Lake proper. Their favorite stop of all the stores was one that sold baby furniture. They had decided to get what they’d need for the nursery, too, so they wouldn’t have to rush when they got back from their honeymoon. Their parents came with them and they all had fun looking at all the cribs, rocking chairs and changing tables. “Do you guys have an idea what you’d like?” her mom asked as they walked through a display of cribs. “Well, we don’t know if it’s a boy or girl yet, so it’s hard to say,” Sundae said. “I’d kind of thought of light brown furniture. That would work well for either,” David said. Sundae nodded. “Yeah, it would, light brown would be nice,” she said. “How ‘bout this one? It has a light finish,” his dad suggested as he stepped over to a light-colored crib. Sundae and David walked over to look at the crib. It had a light pine finish and had a simple design. Sundae leaned over to check the latch that controlled the sliding side of the crib. “Hmm, the latch sticks out a little too much,” she said. “The edges are a little sharp, too. I don’t think this one’s right,” David agreed. “Good eyes, you two,” her mom said. “I just want the best I can get,” Sundae said. “And you’ll get it,” David said, hugging her to him. They looked at a few other models as well as changing tables and toy shelves, hoping they might find a set that stood out to them. There wasn’t much that caught their eyes, however. They picked out other things such as toys and a baby monitor and were looking at a table lamp that they thought would be nice next to a rocking chair, when her mom’s voice called out to them. “Kids, come look at this,” she said. Sundae and David followed her voice and found both sets of parents looking at a furniture set they hadn’t seen earlier. It consisted of a crib, rocking chair, changing table, toy shelf and a small end table all with a light brown oak finish and beautiful detail. “Wow, how did we not see this earlier?” Sundae asked, as she looked at the drawers in the changing table, which were big enough to hold clothes, diapers, sheets for the crib and changing supplies. “I don’t know, but thank your mom for finding it,” her dad said. Sundae and David looked all the pieces over, noting that there were very few safety issues. The set was very well made, all the edges were smooth to the touch and there was nothing sticking out that could catch on something. Sundae checked the latch on the crib and found that it was in perfect working order and positioned just under the leg of the crib where it couldn’t be reached by little hands. “This is really nice,” she stepped over to David, “What do you think, honey?” she asked. He smiled. “It is nice. Is it what you want?” he asked. Sundae looked around at the set again and smiled, too. “Yeah, I think it is,” she said. David leaned down and gave her a soft kiss. “Then it’s yours and our angel’s,” he said when he pulled back. Sundae reached and hugged him and he returned the hug wholeheartedly. A saleslady happened to walk by a moment later. “Did you all need some help?” she asked. “Yeah, we were interested in this set,” David said, gesturing to the set up. The saleslady smiled. “Is this your first time?” she asked. “Yeah, it is,” Sundae said. “Aw, congratulations to you. This is one of our new sets and can be bought all together or just a few pieces if you don’t want the whole thing. We also have a rocking horse, chest of drawers and a toy chest that go with it as well,” the saleslady said. Sundae and David looked to each other, their eyes sparkling. “We’ll take the whole thing,” David said. The saleslady nodded and led the way up to the checkout counter.
Sundae and David couldn’t have been happier with how well all their plans were going. They both felt as though, after so long apart, the dreams they’d made together as teenagers were finally coming true. Three days after they’d purchased the furniture for the nursery, Francine’s realtor called to let them know they could move into their new home anytime they wished. The rest of their stuff from California arrived the next day and they called the stores that were holding furniture for them and asked for it to be delivered as soon as possible. Two days after that was officially moving day. With the help of their families they moved things in and started setting up their new home. David, along with their dads and brothers set up all the big furniture and helped the deliverymen that seemed to arrive almost every hour with more furniture while Sundae and their moms concentrated on the nursery. They got the crib set up and positioned it between the windows, they set the rocking chair next to the big window that looked out onto the front yard and put the end table next to it. They positioned the changing table and chest of drawers near the closet and set up the toy shelf, toy chest and rocking horse by the wall near the door. They also hung up a couple pictures of teddy bears on the walls and hung a teddy bear mobile above the crib. “Awww, it is so cute in here,” a female voice suddenly said. Sundae turned around from hanging up the mobile and saw Claudia and Snow in the doorway. It was Claudia who had spoken. “We did luck out on this furniture set, didn’t we?” Sundae said. “Yeah, you did. I like this better then Maddie’s room,” Snow said. “Aww, Maddie has a great room,” Sundae said. “Yeah, and she’s probably got fancier stuff than what you can get here,” Claudia added. Snow shrugged. “I don’t know about that. This stuff is gorgeous,” she said. Sundae smiled as she looked around the room. Snow did have a point there. A loud thump from downstairs suddenly grabbed everyone’s attention. “Uh-oh, I hope they didn’t break something down there,” Claudia said. Sundae stepped between her and Snow and hurried down the hall and down the stairs. As she came into the living room she saw both hers and David’s dads and her brother, Jason, trying to move a desk she and David had picked out for the den. They’d decided, since neither of them watched much TV, to combine the den and office and use the other room as a music room. David was standing a few feet away leaning against the back of their new couch, watching them. Sundae moved over to him and he pulled her to him as she walked up. “Everything okay? We heard a thump down here,” she said. “That’d be those three almost crashing through the wall with the desk,” David said. “Is it really that heavy that it needs three people?” she asked. “It is pretty heavy,” David said. They watched as their dads and her brother tried again to lift the desk, two of them on one end and one on the other. This time it worked and they proceeded to lug the desk along to the den. “How are things going upstairs?” David asked. Sundae smiled. “The nursery’s pretty much done and I’m guessing you guys did the guestroom?” she said. “Yeah, we set my old bed up in there along with my chest of drawers, bookshelf and desk,” he said. “So, that just leaves our room,” Sundae said. He nodded. “I was hoping we could do that one together, just the two of us,” he said, hugging her to him. “I was thinking the same thing,” she said, leaning up to plant a soft kiss on his lips. “Hey, can we get a little help back here?” Jason’s voice suddenly called. Sundae and David smiled and went to see what they could do. It took most of the afternoon, but by the early evening all the big furniture was moved in and all, but the master bedroom had been set up with the basics. Sundae and David had insisted on doing their room, as well as finishing the decoration of the rest of the house, on their own. Their families left just after four-thirty and Sundae and David set about setting up their room just as they’d dreamed. They arranged the furniture, hooked up a small entertainment center and set out special photos. They made up the bed last and, when they finished; Sundae flopped back on the pillows, a happy smile on her face. David came and sat beside her. “Happy?” he asked as he gazed down at her. She smiled up at him and reached to lay her hand against his cheek. “More than I ever could’ve dreamed. I know I’ve said this more than once, but I still can’t believe all this has happened to us,” she said. He smiled, too. “I know, our song has even more meaning for us now,” he said, taking her hands and pulling her up into a sitting position as he started to sing.
Oh thinking about all our younger years There was only you and me We were young and wild and free She beamed at him and hugged him tight as she joined him in the song.
Now nothing can take you away from me We’ve been down that road before But that’s over now You keep me coming back for more
Baby you’re all that I want As you’re lying here in my arms I’m finding it hard to believe we’re in heaven Love is all that I need And I found it there in your heart It isn’t too hard to see we’re in heaven David gently tapped Sundae’s chin and she looked up at him as he sang the last line.
Ohhh we’re in heaven The two gazed at each other for a moment and then he closed the small space between the, leaning in and capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. She lay back on the pillows again, pulling him down with her, their embrace heated by the fire of their love. With all their dreams coming true all around them, they truly were in heaven.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:12:38 GMT -5
Chapter 13 The next two weeks seemed like a blur, for they were the last two weeks before the wedding. Sundae and David were all over the place making sure all their plans were solidly in place. They double checked with the church, the florist and the caterer and also checked in with the pavilion at Murray Park, where the reception was to be held. It did get tiring, but they knew it would be worth it in the end when they had the wedding of their dreams. David also checked with the travel agent in Salt Lake who had helped him put together the honeymoon trip to make sure all the details there were taken care of. While he was out running this errand, Sundae took the opportunity to relax in their new home and get more of their things unpacked and put away. She had also stayed home that day so she could accept delivery of a special gift she had bought for David. Said gift arrived just before three, though it took a little finagling to get it into its proper place, as it was rather large. The deliverymen managed, however, and, when David arrived home at four-thirty, she was eager to surprise him. She was waiting for him when he came in the door and he smiled when he saw her. “Hey,” he said, setting his keys on a table by the door and coming over to her. “Hey, yourself,” she said, beaming as he pulled her into his arms and held her tight. “How was your afternoon?” he asked. “It was good. I got more of our stuff put away. How ‘bout you? How’d your errand go?” she asked, hugging him just as tightly. “Just fine. I picked up our tickets for our trip and we’re all set to go,” he said. “I can’t wait,” she said quietly. “Me either,” he agreed, giving her a loving squeeze. They held onto each other for a few minutes and then she pulled back to look into his eyes. He couldn’t help a smile at the sparkle he saw. “What?” he asked. “Well, while you were out today something came for you,” she said. “What would that be?” David asked. Sundae smiled, taking hold of his hands. “Come with me,” she said and led him over to the downstairs hallway and over to the door of what was to be their music room. “Close your eyes,” she said. He chuckled softly, but did as she asked and she opened the door before taking his hands again and leading him into the room. Once inside she let go of his hands and moved to stand beside him. “Alright, open them,” she said. He did and his eyes became wide with surprise at what he saw. Positioned under the window was a shiny, black grand piano. Its top was covered with a lace cloth and a metronome sat on it with a red ribbon beside it. “How…how did…where did this come from?” David stuttered in surprise. Sundae smiled. “I knew Misty would be needing the one at the LA house and I knew your dad wanted to keep the one at yours, but I knew you’d want one here. It’s my wedding gift to you,” she said. He turned toward her, unable to keep the grin off his face. “You didn’t have to. You’re all the gift I need,” he said. She reached up and touched his cheek. “I wanted to. I love you,” she said. His smile grew as he pulled her into his arms again. “I love you, too and thank you so much,” he said. “You really like it?” she asked. “I love it, Dae. It’s amazing,” he said. “I wanted it to be amazing for you,” Sundae said. David smiled even more and leaned in, kissing her deeply. Sundae wrapped her arms around him, never wanting to let him go.
Now that they were settled into their new home, all of Sundae and David’s attention focused on to the last few remaining days before the biggest day of their lives. Sundae had a final fitting for her dress, the bachelor and bachelorette parties were planned and Sundae and David started packing for their honeymoon. With each passing day they both grew more and more excited and, when the eve of the wedding finally arrived, they almost couldn’t contain it. They were both eager as could be to start their life together. They held their rehearsal dinner at one of their favorite restaurants, Asian Star, and reveled in the joy of having their family and closest friends around them. The dinner wrapped up just after eight and Sundae and David were hurried along by their friends who were eager to get the bachelor and bachelorette parties started. Sundae was getting her coat on when David came up beside her. She smiled when she saw him. “Hey, the guys trying to drag you out of here?” she asked. “Yeah, we’re gonna hang out at my parents’ house and they’re eager to get going. I hope they don’t have anything crazy planned,” he said. “I hope so, too, for your sake,” Sundae said. “Dae, come on, we’re ready to roll,” a female voice suddenly said from behind them. Sundae turned to see Dana, Cara, Jordin, Kimmie and Snow watching her. It was Dana who had spoken. “I’m coming in a minute, I just want to say goodnight first,” Sundae said, smiling at David. He smiled, too, and slipped one arm around her, pulling her to him. Dana came up and tried to pull her away. “Oh no, you know the rules. No contact til you come down the aisle,” she said. Sundae pulled her arm out of Dana’s grasp. “I know that, but it’ll start when we say,” she said. Dana gave her look and Sundae sighed. “Go wait by the car and I’ll be out in a minute,” she said. “Alright, we’ll give in for now, but just wait til we get home,” Dana said. Sundae rolled her eyes as Dana and the others turned and headed out of the restaurant. Sundae then turned back to David. “Guess they’re eager, too,” he said. “Yeah, and I’m sure they’ll drive me crazy at home,” Sundae said. David smiled. “Maybe this will help,” he said and fished into his pocket. He pulled out a little black box and handed it to her. “My wedding gift to you. I hope you’ll wear them tomorrow,” he said. Sundae smiled lovingly at him, but when she opened the box her eyes went wide. In the box was a stunning pair of heart-shaped diamond studs. “Oh my goodness,” she gasped. “You like them?” David asked. Sundae beamed and hugged him tight. “I love them and, of course, I’ll wear them tomorrow,” she said. “I’m glad,” he said as he held her to him. He pulled back after a moment and then leaned in and kissed her. “Hey, Romeo, time to get the party started,” a male voice said. Sundae and David pulled apart and saw Dave, Michael, Jason, Adam and Daniel watching them. Dave was the one who had spoken and he raised an eyebrow at David. David just smiled and turned back to Sundae. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” he said. “And then our happy ever after really starts,” she said as she reached to hug him. He returned the hug, holding her to him for a few minutes. When they finally pulled apart she looked to the guys, who were still waiting and focused on Dave. “I had better get him back in one piece tomorrow. There will be heck to pay for the lot of you if even one hair is out of place,” she said. Dave raised his hands in surrender. “Relax, Dae. We won’t be acting crazy,” he glanced over at Michael, “Much,” he said, making Michael laugh. “David Cook, I meant what I said. There will be heck to pay,” Sundae said, eyeing him. “Okay, okay, relax. It was just a joke,” Dave said. “It better have been,” Sundae said. David gently hugged her to him again. “I’ll be okay,” he said. “I know,” she said. He then stepped away and went over to the guys. Sundae waved to him and gave Dave one more warning look before turning and heading out to join the girls. Sundae and the girls hung out at her family’s home and had a total girls’ night in. They did each other’s nails, listened to music and even played a game of truth or dare. They finally turned in for the night just after eleven, but Sundae had a hard time getting to sleep. She and the girls were camping in the living room and, after nearly forty minutes of tossing and turning on the couch, Sundae got up and tiptoed from the room. She went out into the front room and over to the front window. This window was a bay window with a cushion and pillows as her mom had always wanted a window seat. Sundae sat down and leaned on one of the throw pillows, her gaze traveling up to the sky. She couldn’t help thinking about the coming day. She had daydreamed about what her wedding would be like ever since she was little, but she had never imagined her groom being as wonderful and amazing as David. A bright star suddenly caught her eye and she remembered when David had named a star after her as his gift for their first Christmas together. She smiled at the thought and the star twinkled, seeming to understand. “Thank you, God, for sending him to me,” she murmured. “Can’t sleep?” a female voice asked quietly from behind her. Sundae whirled around and saw Snow watching her from a few feet away. “You scared me,” she said. “Sorry, I got up to get a drink and saw that you weren’t on the couch. Everything okay?” Snow asked as she came and sat facing Sundae. “Yeah, I’m just thinking about tomorrow,” Sundae said. “You nervous?” Snow asked. “Not really,” Sundae replied. Snow raised an eyebrow at her and Sundae giggled. “Oh, fine. I am a little nervous,” she said. Snow smiled and patted her hand. “Were you nervous when you married Michael?” Sundae asked. Snow nodded. “Oh yeah, I was shaking, but I knew he was the one I was meant to be with and that I wanted to be with,” she looked directly at Sundae, “You know that about David, right?” she asked. Sundae smiled. “Since the moment I first saw him,” she said. Snow grinned. “That’s all you need. You know how much you love him and how much he loves you. The wedding is just a symbol of that, so there’s nothing to be nervous about,” she said. Sundae smiled, too. “Yeah, I know,” she said. They sat for a moment and Snow then stood up. “Come on, let’s go back to bed. You’ve got a big day tomorrow,” she said. Sundae stood up, too, and followed Snow back into the living room. She went and stretched out on the couch again and Snow reclaimed her spot on the floor next to the couch. Sundae had just shut her eyes when she felt a tap on her arm. She looked over and saw Snow looking up at her with another smile. “You’re getting married in the morning and we’ll get you to the church on time,” she sang softly. Sundae couldn’t help a grin. “Night, Snow,” she said. “Night,” Snow murmured as they both lay back down. Sundae still had the smile on her face as she closed her eyes. In just a few short hours she would be one forever with the man she loved and the thought made her dizzy with happiness.
Sundae awoke the next morning to the noise of people moving all around her. She blinked her eyes open and saw some of the girls getting things out of their bags and her younger sisters running around. Destiny and Precious came over to her when they saw her watching them. “Morning princess bride. Time to get up,” Destiny said and grabbed Sundae’s hand and tried to pulled her up. Precious grabbed Sundae’s other hand and tried to help, but Sundae just drooped limply as they pulled. “Let go, monsters. I’ll get up in a minute,” she mumbled and flopped back on the couch when they let go. “You’d better make it a short minute. We’re due at the hairdresser’s in an hour and half,” her mom’s voice suddenly said from nearby. Sundae sat bolt upright. “Why didn’t you wake me up sooner?” she asked as she threw off her covers and stood up, straightening herself out. Her mom stepped in from the kitchen. “I wanted to let you get your rest for today,” she said. Sundae smiled at her. “Thanks for that, but getting ready is important, too. I want to look perfect,” she said. “I know,” her mom said. Sundae nodded and then moved past her sisters and went to go get dressed for her salon appointment. The salon took just over two hours, but it was worth it. Sundae had her hair washed and trimmed and then swept up. She had picked her favorite up do, a classy bun with a few loose strands and had the bun held in place with a crystal tiara to which her veil would be attached. The other girls also got up dos and had simple white flowers pinned in to match the bouquets they would carry. Sundae started to feel butterflies in her stomach as they left the salon and they picked up even more when they got to the church. Her mom led the way to the bride room where they’d all finish getting ready and Sundae had to take a deep breath as she sat down at the dressing table. Her mom noticed when she brought over the box with Sundae’s jewelry. “You okay?” she asked. Sundae nodded. “Yeah, just a few butterflies,” she said. Her mom gave her a reassuring hug. “I had that with your dad. The moment I saw him as I was walking down the aisle, though, it all went away. I locked eyes with him and everything else faded away,” she said. Sundae smiled. “That’s really sweet,” she said. “You’ll feel it, too. I promise,” her mom said. Snow walked over then. “You ready to turn into a princess?” she asked Sundae. Sundae nodded, a smile coming to her face. “Yeah, I am,” she said. Snow grinned and turned to the first order of business- makeup. All the girls touched up their makeup and then laid out their dresses. Snow and the bridesmaids slipped into their baby blue dresses first and then quickly moved to help Sundae with her gown. Snow and their mom held the dress while Sundae stepped into it and then Dana stepped over to help Snow lace the corset in the back. Kimmie and Jordin brought over Sundae’s veil and attached it to her tiara once she was laced into her gown, and Cara brought over Sundae’s shoes; a pair of silvery white sling backs with silver and gold jewel accents on the toes. After slipping on her shoes Sundae turned to the box with her jewelry and brought out the gold heart necklace, gold chain bracelet and diamond studs that David had given her and slipped them on. She then turned to face her mom, sister and bridesmaids. They were all pulling on their shoes and jewelry and Snow was gathering the bouquets they would carry. “Well, you guys, what do you think?” she asked. They all looked up and her mom immediately teared up. “Oh, honey, you look so beautiful,” she said and reached to hug. “Thanks, mom, but don’t get so teary that your makeup runs,” Sundae said, hugging her mom for a minute and then handed her a tissue. She then looked to her friends and sisters and saw the smile on Jordin’s face. “Okay, who wants to take bets on how far down David’s jaw will drop when he sees her?” she asked. “Five bucks says at least to his waist,” Kimmie said. “Please. Ten bucks says all the way to the floor,” Dana chimed in. “Darn you beat me to it,” Cara said lightly whacking Dana on the arm. Sundae laughed. “Cut it out you guys,” she said. “Hey we’re serious here. You look amazing. I hope one of the guys has a sedative handy,” Dana said. Sundae laughed even more remembering one time when hers and David’s ‘Idol’ friend, Carly Smithson, had said something similar. “You guys are crazy,” she said. “You just wait and see,” Kimmie said. A knock on the door made everyone jump. “Come in,” Sundae called and her dad poked his head in. “Almost ready in here?” he asked, but then he saw Sundae. A smile spread across his face and tears came to his eyes as he walked over to Sundae. “You look so beautiful, sweetheart,” he said, and gently kissed her on the forehead. “Thanks, dad,” Sundae said. Her mom stepped over to them. “We’re pretty much ready. Is everything set to go out there?” she asked. “Yeah, we can start anytime,” Sundae’s dad replied. They both looked to Sundae and she nodded. “Let’s do this,” she said. Her mom turned to the rest of the girls. “Alright, let’s get lined up,” she said. The girls quickly got in order, Snow at the front and then Kimmie, Dana, Jordin and Cara. Sundae stepped behind them with her parents on either side and then Snow led the way out to the entrance of the chapel. There, they saw the guys except for David, David’s cousin Little Wil who was the ring bearer and Pleshette in her flower girl dress waiting for them. Sundae’s mom drew Pleshette and Little Wil to stand in front of Sundae and behind the bridesmaids and the guys all took their respective places in the line. Pleshette looked up at Sundae. “You look very pretty, Sundae,” she said. “Thank you, Shettie,” Sundae said, smiling at her little sister. Sundae’s mom then kissed her on the cheek and went to take her seat in the chapel. A few minutes later the chapel doors opened and the processional began to play. Snow and Daniel followed by the other four pairs behind them started down the aisle and with each pair’s start Sundae felt the butterflies growing. Cara and Michael were the last pair to start and Michael winked at Sundae over his shoulder just before they did. Sundae was standing just around a corner, out of view of the door, but then as Little Wil started down the aisle Pleshette moved to the entry. Sundae stepped up behind her on their dad’s arm as the organist struck up ‘Here Comes the Bride’. The assembled guests rose in their seats and Pleshette started down the aisle, scattering rose petals as she went. Sundae and her dad started down behind her and Sundae was able to see all the beauty around her. The aisle was laid with a white carpet and, at the side of each pew a basket of white and yellow roses accented with baby’s breath and light blue chrysanthemums sat on a pedestal, a train of white, yellow and blue ribbon hanging down from them. Candles were set out all around the altar and on top of the piano that sat on the stage. On either side of the aisle, Sundae saw friends and family smiling at her from their seats. Among them were many former ‘Idols’, including all the rest of hers and David’s friends from season seven, the ‘Idol’ judges and Ryan, friends from school and lots of extended family. Sundae’s gaze then moved to the altar, which she was quickly approaching. She saw pastor Wilkins standing in wait, his Bible in hand, and then her eyes found the loving gaze she had been aching for. David, looking amazing in a sleek black tuxedo with a blue bow tie and cummerbund, stood beside pastor Wilkins, his gaze all for Sundae. She felt tears come to her eyes as she locked eyes with him. All her butterflies disappeared, like her mom said, and he was all she saw. He held out his hand as she and her dad approached and her dad took it and placed her hand in it. He then cupped his hands around both of theirs for a moment and then let go and stepped back, joining Sundae’s mom at the front pew. David then took hold of Sundae’s other hand, turning her toward him, and she saw that he, too, had tears in his eyes. The organ music faded then and pastor Wilkins stepped forward. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the joining together of these two wonderful young people, David Archuleta and Sundae Wahlberg. These two have come a long way to get here today, but each step has made it more and more obvious that they are truly meant to be. Who gives this woman in marriage?” he asked. Sundae’s parents stood up. “Her mom and I do with all our love,” her dad said. Sundae smiled at them lovingly and they returned the smile as they sat back down. The ceremony proceeded with prayers and traditional wedding song of David’s church. When the song finished pastor Wilkins looked to David to start the vows. “David James Mayorga Archuleta, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife; to have and to hold, for richer or poorer, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health for all eternity?” he asked. David looked into Sundae’s eyes. “With every ounce of my soul I do,” he said. Sundae had to blink back tears as the pastor turned to her. “Sundae Sue Marie Wahlberg, do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband; to have and to hold, for richer or poorer, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health for all eternity?” he asked. Sundae’s gaze met David’s again and she saw the depths of his heart and soul in his eyes. “With all my heart I do,” she said, hardly able to hold back the tears. Pastor Wilkins looked out to the assembled guests. “In addition to these, the traditional vows, Sundae and David have written vows of their own. Sundae will say hers first and then David, to no surprise to anyone I’m sure, will sing his,” he said. Sundae couldn’t help a smile at that as it was little surprise that David would choose to say his vows in the way he knew best, through music. She looked up into his eyes, thinking of the words she had written for him. “David, I knew the moment I first saw you that you were special and falling in love with you is the most amazing thing that’s ever happened to me. I wonder every day what I did to be worthy of someone as perfect as you. There was a time, when you were gone on your mission, that I was scared I’d never see you again. I am more thankful than I can ever say that God brought you back to me. I know now that I could never live without you. So, today, I give you my hand, my heart and my soul for now, for always and forever. I love you more than life itself,” she finished, her eyes now brimming with tears. He gently brushed away one that escaped and she longed to wrap her arms around him and never let go. He then took her hands and led her over to the piano. She stood beside it and he sat down facing the keys. He laid his fingers on them and looked up at her. “Dae, you know I’m not great with words, but I hope this song will help you see how much you mean to me and how grateful I am that God saw fit for us to be together,” he said. She smiled and he returned it and then began to play a beautiful melody on the piano.
All of my life I have dreamed That somehow love would find me Now I can’t believe you’re standing here If beauty is all in the eye Of the beholder than I wish you could see The love for you that lives in me
And you would know you have my heart If you could see what I see That a treasure’s what you are If you could see what I see Created to be, the only one for me If you could see what I see
I know there are days when you feel So much less than ideal Wondering what I see in you It’s all of the light and the grace Your belief in me drives me to say That I promise you A faithful love forever true
And you would know you have my heart If you could see what I see That a treasure’s what you are If you could see what I see Created to be, the only one for me If you could see… Then you’d understand Why I fall down to my knees And pray my love will be worthy of The One who gave his life so our love could be
If you could see what I see If you could see what I see You’re created to be the perfect one for me If you could see what I see
If beauty is all in the eye Of the beholder than I Am beholding true beauty Sundae couldn’t keep the tears back this time and David had tears flowing as well as he stood up from the piano. They gently hugged for a moment and then turned to see pastor Wilkins standing beside a pedestal on top of which was a large candle, two smaller lit candles in front of it. Sundae and David stepped up to the pedestal and each took hold of one of the small candles. “The candles you hold represent your individual lives. This large candle represents your future together. In lighting this candle you join your souls together as one,” pastor Wilkins said. Sundae and David held their candles over the wick of the large candle, lighting it with the flame of their love. They then placed the small candles back in their holders and followed pastor Wilkins back over to the altar. Once they were all in position pastor Wilkins looked to Little Wil. “May I have the rings, please?” he said. Little Wil stepped forward and held the out the pillow where the rings were resting. Pastor Wilkins took them, laid them on his Bible and blessed them. He then looked to David. “Take your ring for Sundae and, as you place it on her finger, repeat these words; with this ring, I thee wed,” he said. David took his ring for Sundae, a slim gold band that matched the band of her engagement ring, and then took Sundae’s hand in his. “With this ring, I thee wed,” he said and slid the ring onto her finger, his gaze never leaving hers. Pastor Wilkins spoke again. “Sundae, take your ring for David and, as you place it on his hand, repeat these words; with this ring, I thee wed,” he said. Sundae picked up the gold band she’d chosen for David and took his hand in hers. “With this ring, I thee wed,” she said, trembling slightly in her joy as she slid the band onto his finger. Pastor Wilkins then looked out at the assembled guests. “If anyone knows any reason why these two should not be married, let him speak now or forever hold his peace,” he said. Not a word was heard in return and pastor Wilkins looked to Sundae and David again. “Then, by the power vested in me by the great state of Utah, I now pronounce you husband and wife. David, you may kiss your bride,” he said. Sundae and David looked to each other again and he trembled slightly as he lifted his hands to tenderly cup her face. The tears started to slip down her cheeks once again as he leaned in. At first he softly brushed his lips against hers, but then he captured them fully as he drew her into a passionate embrace. His arms slipped firmly and securely around her waist and hers wrapped around his neck, her fingers finding their way into his silky hair. They held onto each other for a long moment and then finally came up for air, their foreheads still touching. Pastor Wilkins spoke up again, addressing the guests. “It’s my honor to present to you for the first time Mr. And Mrs. David Archuleta,” he said. Sundae and David turned to face their friends and family and they all rose to their feet in joyous applause. After a moment Sundae and David looked to each other, neither of them able to keep from smiling. “Are you ready?” David asked. “Always,” Sundae said, giving his hand a loving squeeze. They then turned and started back up the aisle, their wedding party following them. Their happily ever after had finally begun.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:13:16 GMT -5
Chapter 14 Sundae and David ran out into the main lobby of the church, their friends behind them. Sundae started to glance over at her sisters, but a gentle tug to her hand turned her the other way. David pulled her to him and she gazed into his eyes. They were shining brighter than she could ever remember. “Now, it’s you and me,” he murmured softly. “Forever,” she agreed and he leaned in and lightly brushed his lips to hers. “Hey guys, save for the honeymoon, will ya?” Jason’s voice suddenly said from beside them. Sundae reached over and lightly thwacked him on the arm before he could move out of range and the others laughed. They then lined up by the doors of the church to thank the guests as they left to go to the reception. Sundae and David stood together, Snow and Daniel beside them. The bridesmaids each stood with their respective groomsman and Pleshette and Little Wil came and stood in front. The chapel door opened again then and the guests began filing out. It took over and hour to greet all of them, but it was worth it. Once the last guests had left, the church doors were pulled closed again and the little party regrouped. “So, I guess we’ll go on ahead to the reception and see you there?” Daniel asked. David nodded. “Yeah, and would you tell dad we’ll do the pictures when we get there?” he asked. “Sure, no problem,” Daniel agreed. He then led the rest of the party away, leaving Sundae and David alone. They turned to each other in the quiet of the lobby unable to control their smiles. “So, are we taking your car to the reception?” Sundae asked. David smiled and shook his head. “I had something a little more romantic in mind,” he said. He then took her hand and led her outside to the front walk. They walked out to the parking lot and Sundae gasped at the sight of what was waiting for them. Parked at the curb was beautiful open white carriage drawn by two white horses. “Oh my gosh,” Sundae breathed. She looked to David and nearly melted in the warmth of his gaze. “I have always dreamed of this, riding off in a horse drawn carriage like a fairy tale,” she said. He gently brushed his fingers against her cheek. “This is our fairy tale and you’re my princess,” he said. Sundae couldn’t help throwing her arms around him. “I love you so much,” she whispered. “I love you, too, angel,” he murmured back. They held each other for a moment and then stepped back and walked up to the carriage. The driver held open the door and David helped Sundae step up into the carriage before climbing in beside her. The driver then shut the door and got up into his seat. Sundae cuddled up to David as the carriage pulled out of the parking lot of the church. She had an idea they’d get some looks as they drove the few short blocks to the reception, but she didn’t care. As David had said, this was their fairy tale, and nothing was going to spoil it.
Half an hour later, the carriage was rolling up to the entrance to the parking lot in front of the pavilion. Sundae and David saw their family and wedding party waiting for them and waved as the carriage rolled up to the curb. Sundae saw her little sisters’ eyes widen at the sight of the carriage and she knew it was very reminiscent of the fairy tales they still loved. Movement beside her caught her attention and she looked up to see David getting up from his seat beside her. She slid over as he stepped down from the carriage and then reached out to him as he held his hands out to her. She stood up as she took hold of his hands and he lifted her down from the carriage, pulling her into his arms as her feet reached the ground. She looked up into his eyes and he gazed back at her with nothing but love. “Ahem,” Daniel’s voice said from behind them and they turned to see him and the others watching them. “When you’re ready, we can do pictures,” he said. David gave him a look, but then playfully swatted him on the shoulder as they walked over to where everything was being set up. The photographer had picked a spot near the creek that ran through the park and he started situating people for various poses. There was a picture of Sundae and David with the bridal party, a picture of them with their parents and family photos, one of Sundae with hers and one of David with his. They thought about getting one of both families, but Sundae’s was so big it would be hard to get everyone in the shot. The photographer then asked for Sundae and David alone. “Time for a few shots of the happy bride and groom,” the photographer said. Sundae and David stepped over to stand together under a tree. The photographer took a few shots of the two of them, but didn’t seem quite satisfied. “Something’s not quite perfect. Let’s try again,” he said. Sundae leaned her head on David’s shoulder, feeling a little tired of being on her feet. He leaned down to her and whispered in her ear. “Have I told you you’re amazingly beautiful?” he asked. She looked up and met his gaze and took a step closer to him, her hand sliding up to rest against his back. They gazed deeply into each other’s eyes and he rested his forehead against hers. A clicking sound interrupted the tranquil moment. “Now that’s what I’m talking about,” the photographer said as he snapped a couple pictures of them in their current position. “Beautiful,” he said. Sundae and David both smiled. “Yeah, beautiful,” David murmured, brushing his fingers against Sundae’s cheek. She beamed at him as the photographer took a couple final shots. The dads then stepped in to get everyone ready to make a grand entrance into the pavilion. “Alright we need to line up for our entrance,” David’s dad said. The bridal party got into formation with Sundae and David at the end and the rest of the family members started inside ahead of them. His dad stayed outside until everyone else had gone in and then signaled to the party that they could proceed inside themselves. Snow and Daniel led the way and they walked in as they had at the church. They went inside the pavilion building and then walked over to its main entertainment hall. The room was the size of a hotel ballroom and had plenty of space for the reception. As Sundae and David reached the door Daniel stopped them, so that they could be introduced before coming in. They stood back and Daniel picked up a champagne glass off the nearest table and lightly tapped a fork against it to get everyone’s attention. He grinned when they were all looking at him. “Now that I have your attention, may I present my brother and my beautiful sister-in-law, David and Sundae Archuleta,” he said with a flourish. Sundae and David then stepped in and the guests rose to their feet in applause. Sundae and David waved as they made their way to the lead table, Sundae feeling a wonderful tingle at hearing herself referred to as Sundae Archuleta. She had dreamed of hearing it for so long. When they reached their table David held out her chair and Sundae sat down, sweeping the skirt of her gown under her. David then sat beside her and took hold of her hand under the table. She stroked his hand in hers as members of the catering staff started to serve dinner. The meal was actually more of a cross between a late lunch and an early dinner, but no one seemed to mind. There was soup and salad with bread for starters, a choice of beef, chicken or vegetarian for the main course and, of course, the wedding cake would be served for dessert. As they ate, Sundae noticed that David had his right hand in his lap, as he usually did when eating. She reached over with her left hand and twined their fingers and he looked over and smiled, seeing the sparkle in her eyes. A server pausing in front of them with a tray of champagne glasses made them look up and Sundae immediately worried. “That isn’t alcoholic, is it?” she asked. “No, ma’am. It’s sparkling cider. We don’t serve alcohol here,” the server said. Sundae breathed a sigh of relief and David squeezed her hand. “We settled on the cider, remember?” he said. “Yeah, I guess staying up a little late last night is starting to get to me,” Sundae replied. “Well, I hope you’re up for at least one dance,” David said. Sundae beamed at him. “Of course I am,” she said. He gently squeezed her fingers again and didn’t let go of her hand all through the meal. The servers were coming around again this time collecting plates from those who were finished when Daniel stood up from his place beside David and tapped a fork against his cider glass. “Uh oh,” Sundae said to David and he chuckled. “Don’t worry. I told him I’d kick his butt if he said anything embarrassing,” he said and she stifled a giggle. “If I can have your attention for a minute,” Daniel said as everyone turned to look at him. “For those who don’t know, I’m Daniel, the brother of the groom. And if David thinks he’s getting out of this without at least one joke, he’s crazy,” Daniel said, drawing a round of laughter. “We all saw David’s talent early on. Dad’s told the story a hundred times about how he found it out when David memorized our Les Miz tape with the accents. We always wondered what kind of girl he’d end up with and, when we met Sundae, we knew in a microsecond that she was the one. She compliments him like no one else and we’re very happy to welcome her to the family. To David and Sundae,” Daniel said and raised his glass. Everyone else followed suit and clinked glasses in a toast. As Daniel sat back down Snow stood up with her glass in hand. “Hope I’ll be able to live up to that. I’m Snow and I’m the big sister of the bride. Sundae has always been our diva and soccer star and, before David came along, I always pictured her ending up with someone similar. Like Daniel said, however, she and David compliment each other like no other people I’ve seen. I told Dae on her fifteenth birthday that I could tell she was falling for David and their love is obvious to everyone who sees them. It’s also obvious how happy they are, especially today. Dae, David, I hope you have all the joys your hearts can hold,” she said. Again everyone clinked glasses and Sundae gently squeezed Snow’s arm as she sat back down. Daniel then spoke up again. “And now, let the dancing begin,” he said and nodded to the DJ, who was set up off to one side of the dance floor. They started with the traditional dances and the mother/son was first. David and his mom danced to a fitting song from the Backstreet Boys called The Perfect Fan. Sundae knew that David was still a little awkward with dancing, but he managed just fine. Then it was time for the father/daughter dance. Sundae wondered if her dad had anything planned as she walked up to him and he smiled as she stepped into his arms. “Don’t get upset, but I wrote the song we’re about to dance to. I wanted it to be special,” he said. Sundae wasn’t sure what to say, but the music starting saved her from responding. It was a pretty melody and he sang the lyrics to hr as they danced.
Once in every lifetime A moment comes along That takes your breath away And all too soon it’s gone But the memory of the sweetness The joy this moment brings Will stay with me forever As I watch you spread your wings
There’s an angel in my arms And soon she’ll fly away But I know that time cannot erase The way I feel today No matter where you go To me you’ll always be The angel who’s dancing On her wedding day with me
When you were very little I knew one day there’d be The one you’d give your heart To for eternity Now this is the moment Deep inside I know He’s the one so right for you Now I can let you go Sundae saw the tears in her dad’s eyes at that line. She knew she’d always been daddy’s girl and how hard letting her go was for him.
There’s an angel in my arms And soon she’ll fly away But I know time cannot erase The way I feel today No matter where you go To me you’ll always be The angel who’s dancing On her wedding day with me The song then wound to its close and Sundae reached for and hugged her dad tightly. “I love you, daddy, you know that,” she said. “I know. I love you, too, baby girl,” he said. The DJ spoke up as they stepped apart. “And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for…the first dance for the bride and groom,” he said. Mr. Wahlberg stepped out of the way and Sundae turned all her attention to David as he walked out onto the floor and took her in his arms. “I hope you’ll like the little surprise I arranged,” he said. Sundae smiled but, before she could ask, the music started. They had chosen to dance to their special song, Bryan Adams’ Heaven and Sundae was happily surprised to hear David’s voice singing the song instead of Bryan’s. “Is this the one you recorded for me for our first Christmas?” she asked. “It is. I wanted this to be as perfect as possible for you,” he said. She slipped her arms around his neck and cuddled close to him. “It’s perfect because of you,” she said. He smiled and held her tighter as they danced and lost themselves for a few minutes in the music. Sundae let her mind wander to all the times the song had featured prominently in their relationship; his performance of it during Hollywood week of his Idol season, when her dad had heard them singing it together, when they had danced to it at the picnic he’d set up to apologize for their first fight, him recording it for her for their first Christmas, and many other times. Every time she heard him sing it she melted and this time was no exception as he murmured the lyrics to her as they danced, his warm breath in her ear. They were both so lost in the moment that they were barely aware of anything around them. He gently twirled her around with the song’s last line and then drew her close with its final notes. He leaned in and kissed her as their family and friends applauded them and, after a moment, they turned and looked out at all those around them. “Thank you. We hope you’ll all enjoy music and dancing, too,” Sundae said. She and David then smiled and waved as they made their way off the floor and back to their table. The rest of the celebration took off from there. Music, dancing and toasts all around made for a joyous time. Sundae and David danced together and with their friends and family and mingled with everyone they could. Sundae took it slow, as she was still a little tired, and enjoyed watching when David got into a sort of dance-off with some of his cousins. She was giggling over their antics when his mom came and sat next to her. “They’re pretty funny to watch, aren’t they?” she said. “Yeah they are. David’s told me about the parties you all have, especially at the holidays,” Sundae said. “We’re looking forward to having you at the next one,” his mom said. Sundae laughed. “I’ll probably be big and round by then, but I look forward to it, too,” she said, laying a hand on her stomach. Her gaze then moved back to David and she watched him grooving along to the current song. A thought came to mind that she had been mulling for sometime, even while David had been away. “Is something on your mind?” his mom asked. “Well, I’ve been thinking about something for a long time and it’s even more on mind now,” Sundae said. “What is it?” his mom asked. Sundae took a deep breath. “David’s told me a lot about your church and I’ve been to services with him a few times in LA. While he was away I thought about it a lot and read about it, too. David gave me a copy of The Book of Mormon before he left, saying he thought maybe it would bring me comfort while he was away…and it did. I read from it quite a bit and it did help me feel better when I was missing him. I knew he was doing good things like he always does,” Sundae said. “That’s what the book is meant to do, help bring us closer to God and His teachings,” his mom said. Sundae nodded. “It got me thinking a lot, too, and made me curious. I was thinking of talking to David, but I could ask you, too. Does the church have classes for people who want to know more? I’ve thought a lot about it and I know these beliefs make up a large part of who David is. I’d like to know more and I want the baby to know, too,” she said. His mom nodded, smiling. “David will be so happy to hear all this. To answer your question, yes the church does have classes. Usually, we have missionaries who go to people’s homes and give lessons, but here, because there’s so many of us, classes at the church are more popular. There are Sunday School classes for all ages and there are also classes called Relief Society, which are for women eighteen and over. I go to those a lot and you’re more than welcome to come with me,” she said. Sundae smiled. “I’d like that, Lupe, thank you,” she said. Lupe gently hugged her. “You’re more than welcome and you can call me mom now if you like,” she said. Sundae giggled. “Okay…mom. Oh, and I’d rather not say anything to David right away. I know he’d be happy to hear all this, but I want to be really sure first,” she said. “I understand,” Lupe said. Footsteps coming toward them made them look up then and they both smiled to see David come bouncing up to them. He hugged his mom from behind. “Bonding with your new daughter-in-law?” he asked her. “We were having a very nice talk,” his mom said. David grinned and stepped over to Sundae and she drew him down to her for a kiss. “Mmmm, you okay over here?” he asked. “Yeah, you looked like you were having fun out there cutting a rug,” she said. He chuckled. “If you can call it that. I was thinking it might be time to cut the cake,” he said. Sundae grinned. “Now you’re talking,” she said. He chuckled again and drew her to her feet. They then made their way over to the cake, which sat on a table on the other side of the room. Their guests gathered around seeing this and David turned to address them. “I see by the clock that it’s time to cut the cake and my beautiful bride agrees with me,” he said. Sundae smiled as they picked up the cake knife, situating it so they both held it. They then guided it over to the cake and sliced into the bottom tier. The guests applauded and David picked up a fork that had been sitting next to the knife. Sundae eased a slice of cake onto a plate and David took it and speared a chunk with the fork. Their guests applauded again when he fed her the bite and she then took the fork and returned the favor. One of the catering staff came up then and took over slicing and distributing cake and Sundae and David moved out of the way and started back to their table.
The celebration continued for a couple more hours and started to wind down just before six. Sundae and David were due to catch the first flight of their honeymoon at nine, so they knew they needed to get ready to go. Sundae was saying goodbye to her parents when David came up beside her. “Hey, you ready to go?” she asked him. “I’m ready when you are,” David replied. Sundae smiled and turned to her parents. “I guess we’re taking off,” she said. “Have a wonderful time and we’ll see you when you get back,” her mom said as they traded hugs. “I’ll send you postcards,” Sundae said. Her mom smiled and Sundae then turned to David. “Let’s go,” she said. He grinned, taking her hands in his and leading her along. They waved to their remaining guests and then headed out the door. Once outside David started to lead Sundae along a path that led into the park. “Don’t we have a ride to catch?” she asked. “Not for a few more minutes. I wanted to take you somewhere first,” he replied. “Where are we going?” Sundae asked. “You’ll see,” David said. They walked along the path and soon came to a bridge that spanned over a small creek. Sundae smiled, realizing where they were. “I remember this place,” she said. David had brought her to the bridge four years earlier, when he had been showing her around Murray during a stop on the Idol tour. She leaned on the railing looking down at the creek and he came up behind her, slipping his arms around her. “I wanted so badly to tell you that day. I was trying…” he paused, unsure of how to continue. She turned in his arms to face him. “The important thing is that you did tell me and I’m so glad you did. I can’t live without you, David,” she said. He leaned his head close to hers, their foreheads touching. “And I can’t live without you. I realized that back then and that was what gave me the strength to tell you,” he said. They stood quietly together for a few minutes and then she lifted her hand and laid it alongside his face. “I love you, so much more than words could ever say,” she murmured. “I love you, too, Dae, with everything I have,” he murmured back as he leaned in. Their lips met with the passion of their love and marked the beginning of the next chapter of their lives.
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Post by Charlotte on Mar 27, 2012 22:14:30 GMT -5
Chapter 15 Hours later Sundae and David were on a plane winging their way across the Atlantic Ocean toward England where their honeymoon would begin. Sundae fell asleep in David’s arms while they watched an in-flight movie and she woke up hearing the flight attendants rolling out their carts for a meal. She felt the weight of David’s arms around her and sighed happily as she snuggled further into them. He brushed his fingers through her hair and she looked up into his loving eyes. “Morning, Mrs. Archuleta,” he said softly. A grin nearly split her face and she hugged him tighter. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited to hear that,” she said. “I’ve waited just as long to say it,” he said. He secured his arms around her, holding her close, and she nestled into his embrace, content to stay there forever. When they landed in London three hours later, they were both ready to enjoy their honeymoon, and enjoy it they did. They toured around doing sightseeing in London, shopped in Paris and took in the flavorful culture in Spain. David also enjoyed practicing his Spanish with the locals and Sundae was impressed with how beautifully he spoke it. Their last stop was Italy. Sundae was thrilled just to get to see Rome, but she was more than happy when David surprised her with the second half of their Italian visit being in Venice. They stayed in a hotel overlooking one of the canals and the setting was incredibly romantic. Their last night was the most romantic of all. They had gone out for part of the day to explore a little of the town and they rested for a while when they got back. Sundae was a little over three months pregnant now, and they were taking things easy as some of the usual symptoms were kicking in. She had dozed off while they were resting and when she woke up he was sitting beside her gently rubbing her back. “Hey, how’re you feeling?” he asked. “Good. That was a good nap,” Sundae said as she rolled onto her back and sat up. She glanced down at her stomach as she did so. “You’ll still love me when I’m as big as a house, right?” she asked. David chuckled and leaned in, kissing her deeply. “I’ll love you know matter what,” he said. “I’m glad to hear that,” she said as she slid into his arms. They held onto each other for a few minutes and then he pulled back so that he was looking into her eyes. “You feel up for a little trip?” he asked. “Sure, where are we going?” Sundae asked. “A little surprise,” David said as they got up. They grabbed sweaters and a room key and headed out. They went downstairs and through the lobby and, as they stepped out onto the sidewalk, Sundae’s eyes widened when she saw what was sitting at the curb in the canal. “A gondola ride?” she asked, turning to David. “I’ve heard they’re pretty romantic,” he said. She beamed as they stepped over to the gondola. The gondolier helped them in and the settled in each other’s arms. The gondolier then cast off with his pole and steered the boat down the canal. David hummed a soft tune in Sundae’s ear as they floated along and she closed her eyes, reveling in the sound and in his closeness. When the boat pulled up to the curb again, Sundae looked up to see they were in front of a very romantic looking restaurant. Little lanterns hung from its awning, candles twinkled in the windows and a wonderful aroma wafted out from the open door. “This looks so nice,” Sundae said as she and David walked up to the door. “I looked up most of the restaurants here and this one was very highly rated. I want our last night here to be special,” he said. Sundae leaned up and kissed him softly. “It’s special because I’m with you,” she said. He slipped his arm around her and held her close as they went into the restaurant. There they sat down to a wonderful dinner by candlelight and they were even serenaded by house singer. Sundae felt like she was in a classic romantic movie with the love of her life by her side. After dinner Sundae and David strolled along the small street where the restaurant was situated and Sundae looked around in awe at the beauty around them. There were small lights and candles in windows, flowers in every window box and the reflection of the light on the waters of the canal flickered against the stone walls of the buildings. Above them, the moon was out and a sky full of stars twinkled around it. “This is such a beautiful night,” Sundae murmured. “Bella Notte,” David said and she smiled at the reference to one of her favorite classic Disney films. “I love that song, too,” she said. David smiled and started to sing.
This is the night It’s a beautiful night And they call it bella notte Look at the skies They have stars in their eyes On this lovely bella notte
Side by side with your loved one You’ll find enchantment here The night will weave its magic spell When the one you love is near
This is the night When the heavens are right On this lovely bella notte He drew her into his arms as he finished the song and kissed her deeply. She held onto him, her arms slipping securely around his neck. When they finally pulled apart a few minutes later they saw the gondola parked at the curb waiting for them. David leaned in and gently kissed Sundae again. “Hold those lips til we get back to the hotel,” he said and she grinned as they turned and headed over to the gondola. When they got back to the hotel they both decided to take showers, so they’d be set for the lengthy trip home. David let Sundae go first and when she finished she came out wrapped up in a warm robe, she went to look out at the view while he took his turn. She looked out at the canal below and the moonlight dancing on the water. She saw candles in several windows and heard music drifting up from a couple little cafes on the street below. She glanced back around hearing the shower shut off, and spotted some little tea light candles sitting on a table. An idea came to mind and she stepped over to the candles. She found a small pack of matches and lit the candles and then made sure they were secure in holders. Then she turned and pulled the thin under layer of the curtain closed, so that the sound could continue to drift in, but that no one could see. Then she turned to the bed. She fluffed up the pillows and turned down the sheets. She then turned down the table lamp to a soft glow, completing the romantic atmosphere. She felt a draft and saw that the breeze was making the curtain flutter and she stepped over to the window and pulled the two sides closer together. As she finished, a pair of arms slipped around her and she leaned into David’s embrace as he bent and kissed her neck. “Mmm, you smell good,” she said, getting a whiff of his shampoo and body wash. “This is really nice, Dae,” David said. “I thought it might be,” she said as she turned in his arms. He started gently undoing the belt of her robe as he continued to kiss her neck. He kissed along her jaw and met her lips as he got the belt untied. His hands slipped into her robe and she started fiddling with the belt of his. He gently started to push her robe open and she heard him moan when he saw the silk and lace negligee she wore under it. She had gotten a couple for the trip and had been saving this one for a special night. She then managed to get his robe open and she felt the fire of her passion at the sight of his perfect body. He started kissing her neck again and this time trailed along to her ear. “I want to lavish you, Dae,” he breathed when he reached it. “And I want to lavish you,” she whispered back and let her arms drop down long enough for her robe to slip off. David swept her up in his arms and carried her over to the bed, laying her back against the pillows. He continued to trail kisses along her collarbone and she pushed at his robe, slipping it off his shoulders. Her hands then began to caress his chest and abs and slid around to his back. He pulled his hands free from the sleeves of the robe and tossed it aside before letting her pull him down on top of her. He pulled the sheets up over them and they spent the rest of the evening lavishing each other with the passion of their love.
Sundae would’ve loved for the honeymoon to last forever but, as she and David started their travels home, she knew the passion of it would live forever between them. Once back home they set about settling into their house and getting ready for the baby. They already had the nursery furnished, but now they needed to make things baby-proof. They also had to go through and organize all their wedding gifts. On top of gifts from all their family and friends, David’s fans had sent things, too, including cards baring news of donations to some of his favorite charities. It took a couple months to get all the gifts completely organized and since many of the gifts were items that could be used around the home, it wasn’t difficult to find places for them. Sundae was grateful for this as things slowed down for her with the progression of the pregnancy. She was showing by this point and she loved watching her belly get bigger, as did David and all their family. She and David also had their careers to think of and Jive was nice enough to allow them to record exclusively in Salt Lake so that they wouldn’t have travel. They got their basement studio set up and did most of the recording there. David split his time between it and a larger studio in Salt Lake proper so that he could be home as often as possible. When she wasn’t recording Sundae was taking a couple online classes to continue her college education and enjoying buying things for the baby. She picked out toys, a mobile to hang over the crib, pictures for the walls, and loads of tiny clothes. Her mom often joined her and they spent many afternoons buying things and adding to the nursery. “You know, I have to ask you something,” Sundae said one afternoon as she and her mom were looking over clothes they’d bought as they folded them to go in the chest of drawers and changing table drawers. “What’s on your mind?” her mom asked. “Well, this has been on my mind for a while and since I’ve got you alone I’m gonna ask. When David and I were debating how to tell you guys about the baby, we wondered what you’d think since we’d always said we were waiting til marriage, but you all were cool and happy about it and it really surprised us,” Sundae said. Her mom stifled a small giggle. “We actually didn’t expect you two to stick to waiting til marriage,” she said. “Seriously?” Sundae asked, surprised. “Yeah. As in love as you two are we thought it happened a long time ago,” her mom said. “You’re really serious?” Sundae asked. “Yes. We were almost sure it would’ve happened when you went to Hawaii, and we even wondered when he took you to his senior prom,” her mom said. “Well, I can understand you wondering about Hawaii, but I’m surprised that you would’ve wondered about the senior ball,” Sundae said. “Like I said, we saw how in love you and David are and between you and me, your dad and I agree that you two got serious a lot faster than Snow did with Michael and at a deeper level,” her mom said. Sundae smiled. “We knew that, too, that what we have runs deeper than most teen relationships, but it’s how we knew were meant to be together,” she said. Her mom smiled, too, and squeezed her hand. “Your little one will be very blessed to have you,” she said. That brought tears to Sundae’s eyes and she reached over and hugged her mom tightly. “You have no idea what it means to me to hear you say that,” she said. “I know,” her mom said.
On top of prepping for the baby and working, when she could, on her album, Sundae also started taking classes at David’s church. Lupe picked her up once a week and they went together. The classes were a combination book study and lessons on church traditions. Sundae enjoyed it very much and it helped to solidify her decision that her child should be brought up in the faith that had touched and influenced David and herself. One evening when she came home from the weekly class she saw that David was already home. That day was one of his days in the city and he was usually home later on those days. He opened the door as she came up the front walk and she beamed at him as he held out his arms. “You’re home early,” she said, hugging him tightly. He held her just as tightly and then bent and kissed her stomach, saying hello to their little one. “We didn’t have as much to do today. Did you have fun with mom?” he asked as he gently led her inside. “Yeah, we always have fun. Your mom’s amazing,” Sundae said as he led her over to the couch. She sat down gratefully, happy to rest her nearly six-month belly. David smiled at her comment, but then noticed the book she had been carrying, the one he had given her before he’d left on his mission. “Has she been talking to you about this stuff?” he asked, referring to the book. “We’ve talked about it a little,” Sundae said. David sighed. “I asked her a long time ago not to push you about it. When I gave you that book I hoped it would help keep a part of me close to you while I was away. I didn’t and still don’t expect you to…” she gently stopped him mid-ramble with a finger to his lips. “Your mom hasn’t been pushing me. I brought it up with her,” she said. “You did?” David asked, surprised. “At the wedding reception. I’d been thinking about it for a while and I got the chance to talk to her when she sat with me. I told her about reading your book while you were away and wanting to know more. She told me about classes at the church and that’s what we’ve been doing when we hang out,” Sundae said. “Classes?” David asked. “Relief Society classes. They’ve been a lot of fun and I really feel a connection to it, to everything,” Sundae said. David took her hand in his. “You have no idea how glad I am to hear that, Dae. I was so thrilled when you said that you liked the church, but classes are more than I ever expected,” he said. Sundae smiled, wondering what he’d think of what she had to say next. “You probably never expected to hear this either. We saw Pastor Wilkins today as we were leaving and talked to him,” she took a deep breath, “I’m going to be baptized in two weeks,” she said. She had never seen more complete surprise come into David’s face. He grinned from ear to ear. “Really?” he asked. “Yes. God answered my prayers when he brought you back to me. I owe Him so much for that,” she took his hand and laid it on her stomach, “and I want our baby to know our faith,” she said. David beamed even more and swept her into his arms. “It means so much more than you could ever know to hear you say those things,” he said. They held each other for a few minutes and when they pulled back she saw shine of joy in his eyes. She leaned over and softly kissed him, overjoyed that he was happy with this new development. Sundae spent the next two weeks preparing for her baptism, physically, mentally and emotionally. She prayed and talked with David about the scriptures and was amazed by how much he knew and how in tune with the spirit he was, even though she’d always known it. She also told her parents about her decision and they were both happy, and said that it didn’t surprise them. They were even able to come from the service, which Pastor Wilkins performed. It was just like the ceremonies Sundae remembered from when her siblings had been baptized as babies and she was touched beyond description when David stood up and sang her favorite hymn, ‘Be Still My Soul’. He stayed by her side as Pastor Wilkins blessed her and anointed her with holy water and she embraced him as the ceremony finished. Her life was finally becoming complete all around.
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