The Journey to Peace Chapter 13- Let's Get It On, a when calls the heart fanfic

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters within this story. All rights and much respect go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart." Any real people or places noted in the chapter are just there for storyline purposes.

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And if the ones above weren't enough…**STEAM ALERT**

NOTE: Okay, you have been warned. I don't want to offend anyone, so if heart, steam, and romance aren't what you are looking for, please heed the alerts and keep moving.

Chapter 13- Let's Get It On

With some of the geese guests still standing around, presumably waiting for the reception, Elizabeth pulled Jack off to the side away from their family and friends. Seeing tears fill her eyes replacing those that spilled over her lid, he suddenly wondered if his plans were really to her liking.

"What's wrong honey?" he asked as his thumb brushed away her tears.

"I have never in my life…" Before she could finish her emotional thought, her tears took control and she simply wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled her body against his.

"Honey, what's the matter; is there something that you would have rather had?" he whispered doing his best to keep the few family and friends from seeing her breakdown. "What is it; please tell me…"

She leaned back slightly, "Jack," she placed her hand along the side of his face, "No one has ever done anything so selfless for me before. What you did here, was perfect…everything was simply perfect."

"Elizabeth, you are my world, and you'd given up so much already to have a fast wedding; so maybe I am selfish, because you did that for me," tears filled his eyes. "I couldn't let you give up everything."

"Jack, don't you know that I would have been content to go to the Justice of the Peace in Elizabeth City if the end result was that we were married?" she cradled his face in her hands, leaned forward and gently pressed her lips to his.

"Hey, save that for later," Rosie teased as she walked up and put her arms around the newlyweds. "Come on, we're going to the Bellagio for the reception dinner, and then…well, then you two can be alone."

Several limos lined up in the parking lot as Jack helped Elizabeth, flowing dress and all, into the first one, and the remaining family and friends rode in the other two.

The Picasso Restaurant was empty, except for wait staff, and the manager when Jack, Elizabeth and the rest of the wedding party arrived. The restaurant was breathtaking, overlooking the fountains of the Bellagio, and provided a warm, yet elegant feeling as the wedding party entered and took their seats in the otherwise closed restaurant.

As their family and friends talked amongst themselves, Jack and Elizabeth felt as though they were alone in the crowd. They held hands as his thumb rubbed gentle circles on her skin.

Jack leaned in and whispered, "In case I didn't say it yet, you are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen. Elizabeth, you take my breath away."

Elizabeth smiled; somewhat embarrassed by the compliment, she blushed and looked downward. Jack's finger under her chin lifted her face until their eyes met. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing…"

Jack leaned over, "What's wrong, and don't tell me nothing, I know you better than that."

"Really, it's nothing," she replied as her eyes watered. Seeing the look of concern on his face, she continued, "I guess I don't take compliments well."

"Well, you'd better get used to them, because you are so deserving…"

"Speaking of deserving, what did I ever do to deserve you?" she asked as his thumb brushed across her face, wiping away her errant tears that fell.

Suddenly the fact that they were sitting at a table with others became abundantly clear as her father put his arm around her shoulders, "What's wrong?"

"Nothing is wrong," she assured everyone. "It's just been an emotional day…a perfect, but emotional day."

The wait staff brought various entrees consisting of T-bone steaks with potatoes and vegetables, steak and lobster, King Prawn Tempura salads, and Beef Teriyaki and rice and distributed them to the wedding party.

Jack and Elizabeth picked at their food. Both had an appetite, but it certainly was not for food.

Following dinner, the casual, off in the distance music that could be heard but did not overpower the conversations, became just a bit louder. Jack stood up and held out his hand, "May I have this first dance with my wife?"

As they took to the dance floor, Jack's music selection, "I Am Yours," by Andy Grammar began to play.

Just another love song from a simple man
I been searching for some chords underneath these hands
So I can try to tell you I love you

You know I need you
Like your oxygen
Be my atmosphere
Let me breath you in
So I can try to tell you I love you

I been lost, I been found
But I know I am now, I am yours

I am yours
Now and always
Wouldn't dream to be anything more
You take my breath away every night
Still can't believe it when you say your mine and
I am yours, I am yours, I am yours

I was free falling through the open sky
'Til you smiled at me and you saved my life and I
Knew I was put here to love you

You got the universe swimming in your eyes
I'm an open book when you look in mine
You'll find that I was put here to love you

I been lost, I been found
But I know I am now, I am yours

I am yours
Now and always
Wouldn't dream to be anything more
You take my breath away every night
Still can't believe it when you say your mine and
I am yours, I am yours, I am yours

I been lost, I been found
But I know I am now, I am yours

I am yours
Now and always
Wouldn't dream to be anything more
You take my breath away every night

Still can't believe it when you say your mine and
I am yours, I am yours, I am yours

I am yours; I am yours; I am yours
I am yours; I am yours; I am yours

As the song ended, Jack's hand behind Elizabeth's head pressed her closer as their lips met. It was warm and sweet, and as each dreamed of their pending night alone, although they loved their family and friends, they could not help but to hope that the reception would end soon.

Mr. Thatcher met Jack and Elizabeth as they exited the dance floor. Taking his daughter's hand, they walked back out onto the dance floor to the tune of "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts.

I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you wanna go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile.
But more than anything, more than anything

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but you never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you live,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And always give more than you take.
But more than anything, yeah, more than anything

As Elizabeth and Mr. Thatcher continued to dance, Elizabeth observed the waiter hand Jack and envelope. He pulled out the card and she watched as he appeared to read each, and every word contained inside.

Yeah, this, is my wish (my wish, for you).

This is my wish (my wish, for you)
I hope you know somebody loves you (my wish, for you).
May all your dreams stay big (my wish, for you)

Elizabeth was shedding a plethora of happy tears when Mr. Thatcher returned her to their table. Jack stood up when she approached, "You looked beautiful out there dancing with your dad."

Seeing his tears, she responded, "Jack, you were reading something while my dad and I were dancing. It upset you. Do you mind me asking what it was?"

Jack reached into the pocket on the inside of his jacket and pulled out the envelope, handing it to Elizabeth to read.

"Jack this is private; I shouldn't read it."

"Honey, we have no secrets, right?" he asked.

"Are you sure?" she replied.

"That we have no secrets?"

"No Jack, I mean, are you sure that it's okay for me to read it?"

"I want you to read it…"

Elizabeth opened the envelope and pulled out the card. She took her seat as she started to read…

"My dearest Jack, I am so sorry that I am unable to be with you on this incredibly special day. I am so proud of you and the man that you have become, and I know that your father is smiling down upon you and Elizabeth today.

I remember what it was like to be young and in love and I certainly do not begrudge you and Elizabeth wanting to start out your life together as quickly as possible. But Jack, there are a few things I want to tell you, things that my mother told me, and things that I know your father would have told you had he been here.

Jack, please never take her for granted. We do not know how much time we have on this Earth, so please love her with everything you have, be completely honest, and never leave yourself regretting things that were left unsaid.

Be grateful for every day and for the life that you have and the love that you have found. Remind Elizabeth daily how much she means to you, how thankful you are for her, and do not ever let her wonder where your heart lies.

Probably one of the most important things I can tell you is that marriage is not a competition, except for this one thing…try to out-love one another. Above all, just remember, it matters not who is right or wrong, the score of disagreements should never be kept, and old hurtful situations should never be resurrected once they have been put to rest. Never go to bed angry, and just know that no problem is too difficult that it cannot be resolved together.

Jack, I'm there in spirit with you, and I hope to be with you and Elizabeth soon.

Love always,

Mom

Elizabeth took hold of Jack's hands, "I'm sorry; maybe we should have waited until she could have been here."

Jack's teary eyes caught hers, "No, my mom knows exactly how much you mean to me; she's happy for us, and she wouldn't have wanted us to wait."

The wedding cake was rolled out into the dining room, giving Jack and Elizabeth something immediate to focus on. They both realized that after the cake and the goodbyes, that they could head to their wedding night, an occasion that both had thought about and longed for.

Elizabeth was in awe of the wedding cake, both the design and the fact that it was prepared so quickly. It was three-tier, vanilla flavored, with a cream-colored ribbon at the base of each tier, and an addition ribbon at the top of the second tier. Between the two ribbons on the second tier, there were lacey flower designs. On the top and bottom tiers, there were cream colored fondant rose petals cascading down one side of the cake. The topper was a set of rings, engagement and wedding, in silver.

Some traditions were overlooked. With few guests, all of whom were married, throwing the bouquet was not necessary, and neither was the tossing of the garter.

Jack and Elizabeth sliced the cake, but each was respectful of the other as they gently placed the dessert to the lips of the other. There was no smashed cake or icing on their faces. As the cake disappeared, his lips covered hers, and they were once again oblivious to the others in the room.

Both Jack and Elizabeth were eager to put the family and friend socializing to rest so that they could make their way to the start of their honeymoon. There were handshakes, hugs and kisses as Jack and Elizabeth said their goodbyes and left the restaurant.

"Jack, where are we going?" Elizabeth asked as he pulled her toward the private elevator."

"We're staying here for our honeymoon," Jack replied as he used his Penthouse Suite room key to open the elevator door.

"But my stuff…my stuff is at the Venetian."

"Rosie had it sent over. I'm sorry, but the Penthouse wasn't available until today, and I want you to have the best," he responded as they walked into the elevator and the door closed.

Elizabeth pressed him up against the wall of the elevator, "I already have the best."

Jack was quickly aroused by the feel of her body against his. Her warm breath against his neck caused an increase in his respiration and sent a feeling of electricity coursing through his veins.

Jack could hear his heart pounding in his ears, drowning out all other sounds, as his eyes were only on his new bride. So, it took the elevator door opening and closing three times before he realized that he needed to press the button for the top floor and the Penthouse Suite.

He caught her glance and found himself falling into her soul as neither of them seemed to be breathing, somehow happily suspended between heaven and earth. His lips covered hers; he found them to be delicate and warm, quickly realizing her to be his life's blood.

He pressed his tongue through the slight opening in her lips, as he felt along the soft skin inside her mouth, pleased when his touch elicited her gentle moans. Their tongues moved together much like two dancers sashaying through a song melody, stopping only to periodically catch their breaths.

He stepped back; taking in the complete visual of her in her wedding dress, and he was overcome with emotion, "You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen."

As his tears formed and perfect droplets fell down his cheeks, he smiled before continuing, "When I saw you walking with your dad down the aisle, I thought, don't cry…don't cry…I cried." He pressed his lips to hers, and as his heart continued to pound, he barely managed to whisper, "I am the luckiest man on this planet."

The elevator door opened, and they were right there, at the Penthouse Suite, Room #32061, and Jack carefully swept Elizabeth up into his arms. Carrying her into the Suite, he walked over to the balcony overlooking the famous Bellagio water fountain and he gently placed her feet back on the floor.

Jack opened the door and he and Elizabeth stepped out onto the balcony as the Bellagio Fountain light show began.

"Jack, this is beautiful…" she stated.

Staring at her profile, he responded, "Yes, absolutely beautiful."

She turned to face him, "Jack, I was talking about the fountain."

"What fountain?" he asked as he closed the minimal distance between them. His hand slipped behind her neck as he pulled her closer. His mouth covered hers. The kiss was soft, gentle, warm…hot actually.

His lips trailed down her neck as she tilted her head to the side to give him easy access. "It's chilly out here. Maybe we should go back inside," she whispered, a suggestion that kept his lips on her neck while his hand fumbled with the sliding glass door.

Once the door opened, Elizabeth carefully stepped inside with Jack close behind. Even as high up as their room was, they could see the fountain light show below. Standing at the door, they watched and listened to the operatic rendition as the lights danced to the music. She could feel his hands on her waist, as he turned her around, pulled her against his body and captured her lips. His hands cradled her face, as each kiss became more passionate that the one before.

He stepped back slightly, took her hand and placed her open palm on his heart. "My heart beats only for you, Elizabeth. You are now and will forever be my one and only true love," his voice was soft as the emotion he felt made the words barely able to pass through his lips.

His eyes were warm, and kind and they exuded love, protection, safety, security, patience and respect. "I love you completely, Jack Thornton…my husband, my best friend, my one and only true love."

"Jack," Elizabeth breathlessly whispered as she turned around, "Please unzip my dress."

Jack was not sure why, but his hand shook as the zipper slid down her back and over her hips, revealing that she was not wearing a bra.

Elizabeth could feel Jack's warm breath on her back, as his lips made repeated contact against her skin. She held her dress in front as she turned around, "Can you give me a few minutes to change?"

"Take all the time you need," he responded as he stepped back and gave her room to slip past him.

Struggling to keep her dress up she stepped closer to the bathroom before stopping and turning around, "Oh, have you seen my bag?"

"It's in the bathroom," he replied as he swallowed hard. Unable to take his eyes off her, he watched her perfect form as she disappeared into the bathroom, closing the door behind her.

Elizabeth stepped out of her dress and hung it on the shower curtain rod. Standing practically naked, she was mesmerized by the beauty of her dress and the luck she experienced in finding it.

She opened her bag, shook her head back and forth and laughed softly at the first item that caught her eye. Looking into her bag, "Maybe men are like bulls," she whispered pulling out the red negligee with spaghetti straps and white lace trim around the neckline and hem. "Merry Christmas, Jack," she giggled.

She slipped into the negligee and red bikini panties with white lace around the waistband, freshened up her make-up, pulled the small travel Flowerbomb spray from her purse, spritzed it into the air and walked through the mist. She pulled the baby's breath from her hair, released her French braid, and fluffed her curls with her fingers, allowing her tresses to fall over her shoulders and cascade down her back.

She stood at the bathroom door, her hand on the knob, waiting to make her grand appearance, and she was nervous. Her nerves didn't come from having sex for the first time, after all it was much more than simply having sex, she was finally making love, and she couldn't have been more happy, or more in love than she was at that moment.

She stared at herself in the mirror. After Shane passed away, she had practically pushed deep down the prospect of ever being in this situation, wearing what she wore, for any man, let alone one she had known for such a short time. And yet, she smiled for she knew Jack better than she ever knew Shane, and the love she felt for Jack was deeper, stronger, and so different from anything she had ever felt for Shane.

Her nerves came from the fear of disappointing him; for not being everything in bed that she assumed his fantasies had led him to believe would be his new reality. She listened when her friends talked about their escapades, those who slept around, and those who were in committed relationships. Those who were in it for the simple physical release were not nearly as philosophical as those who were truly in love with their partner.

She pushed aside the thoughts from those women who simply stated that they had such a wonderful weekend in the mountains with 'so-and-so' and the gifts they received were apparently deemed appropriate and expected. Although she never responded during those conversations, Elizabeth felt great sadness for those women, wondering if any man could ever make them happy for any length of time.

The women she listened to were truly in love. They were in love with their men who woke every morning at 4am to head to their job at the shipyard, or the restaurant they managed, or the store where they stocked shelves, or the fire station where they protected our property, or the barns where they milked their cows. They talked about their men being dead tired at the end of the day, but mustering enough energy to help out with the children, the evening chores, to tell their wives, fiancés or girlfriends how much they love them, and to hold them at night as they drifted off to sleep.

Elizabeth listened as the women discussed that the times of making love were not nearly as frequent as they once were, realizing that life somehow seemed to get in the way. However, that in no way diminished the love they had for their partner, and each of those deeply committed to their husbands, fiancés, or boyfriends would do it all over again.

These same men would plan special nights where they would take their significant other out to dinner, or cook it themselves, and if possible, those with children would be with trusted family or friends. There may be candles, flowers or a special gift to show their love and appreciation, but truthfully, all the women wanted was time…time with the man they loved.

Elizabeth's close friends, those who knew of her desire to wait until she was married to give that special part of herself to a man, assured her that with each experience, she and her husband would grow as a couple. They would feel more complete and develop a love so deep and pure that the emotion of it all would seem unfathomable.

Elizabeth momentarily closed her eyes, took a deep breath and opened the door. Seeing Jack standing in a pair of boxers in the middle of the suite amongst a myriad of fragrantly lit candles she stepped into the room. Not knowing what to say, she whispered, "Merry Christmas…"

He approached her, "It most certainly is. This is not only a Merry Christmas, but it is the best day of my life." In his hand, he held two long stem roses, one red and one white. Standing in front of her he took her hand, "These are for you. The white one is to symbolize purity and our new beginning and the red one represents my love for you."

She smiled. Holding the roses to her nose she inhaled as the scent of the real flowers and the "Fresh Cut Roses" Yankee Candles, lit and burning throughout the room, relaxed her, feeling much like she was in the middle of a garden.

Picking up two flutes of champagne from a tray on the table, he handed her one, "Elizabeth, did you know that no matter how dark the day or how down my mood is, all you have to do is walk into the room and the sun appears. To a lifetime of love, happiness, and pure sunshine."

They clinked their flutes together, wrapping their arms through the other before taking a sip. As she held her flute, Jack reached down and took a chocolate covered strawberry from the plate. Holding it to her lips, they parted, and her teeth gently nibbled their way through the decadent fruit.

Leaning over, his lips met hers, tasting the hint of chocolate left from the strawberry she had just bitten into.

He took the roses and champagne flute from her hands and placed them on the table before walking her into the middle of the suite. "Wait right here," he stated as he went to the room stereo and switched the music from instrumental to "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran.

When your legs don't work like they used to before
And I can't sweep you off of your feet
Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love
Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks

Jack took her hand as his other arm held her close against his body while resting along her lower back. Her head rested on his chest and she could easily feel his wildly beating heart. She could feel his fingers as they drew tender circles on the silky material on the back of her negligee, sending waves of warmth throughout her body.

And darling I will be loving you 'til we're 70
And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23
And I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways
Maybe just the touch of a hand
Oh me I fall in love with you every single day
And I just wanna tell you I am

So, honey now
Take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart
I'm thinking out loud
Maybe we found love right where we are

When my hair's all but gone and my memory fades
And the crowds don't remember my name
When my hands don't play the strings the same way, mm
I know you will still love me the same

'Cause honey your soul can never grow old, it's evergreen
Baby your smile's forever in my mind and memory

I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways
Maybe it's all part of a plan
I'll just keep on making the same mistakes
Hoping that you'll understand

But baby now
Take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart
I'm thinking out loud
That maybe we found love right where we are, oh

As they continued to move with each other to the music, Jack's finger under her chin lifted her face upward until their lips met. The kiss was tender; his lips were soft, and the passion began to grow as the urgency between them was felt.

His heart pounded at the anticipation of what was to come. He nibbled and gently sucked on her bottom lip, finding it to be delicious torment. He wanted her, the desire was immediate, and he groaned softly as her skin seemed to heat upon his touch.

All of the times they'd held off, waiting for this one moment; although torture at the time, was now well worth the wait, and he wanted it to be the best night of her life, for he was certain that it would be his.

So baby now
Take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Oh darling, place your head on my beating heart
I'm thinking out loud
That maybe we found love right where we are

Oh, maybe we found love right where we are
And we found love right where we are

As the song ended, Jack's mouth covered hers and he began to slowly back her toward the bed. The back of her knees pressed against the mattress stopping their backward progression. Jack cradled her face in his hands while his thumbs brushed across her cheeks. "Are you okay?" he asked before going any further.

Her heart was pounding. It was caused by many things, but certainly not nerves. It was due to her excitement, anticipation, want, need and desire and she felt comfortable simply releasing herself to her husband, to the man of her dreams, her one and only…her Jack.

With one hand behind her head, and the other slipping underneath one of the spaghetti straps of her negligee, his lips traced down her neck as he stopped to gently nibble on her earlobe. Feeling her body soften against him as gentle moans slipped through her lips, he became aroused even more as his erection quickly tented his boxers.

His finger slipped the spaghetti strap over her shoulder as his lips pressed gently against the soft skin on her upper arm. As his tongue traced across her collarbone, his finger under the other strap of her negligee caused it to fall over her shoulder and the garment dropped to the floor in a puddle of silk and lace.

He pulled her against his body; skin to skin, their bodies were on fire. His hands moved gently up and down her bare back, and her body seemed to mold against him as if she were liquid. Jack's need to touch every part of her was all consuming. He was completely lost in her, in their moment, and there was no other place he wanted to be. He stepped to the side and with his hand behind her head, seemingly in slow motion, she fell back onto the bed.

He lay beside her as his left hand remained behind her head while his right hand rested on her bare abdomen. He kissed her deep and hard as his hand edged higher and he could feel her arch her back as his hand cupped her left breast.

His thumb brushed across her nipple, causing it to stiffen and become erect, much like his firm member that she it felt pressing against her body, begging for action.

His mouth moved along the side of her neck, and he could feel her take a deep breath when his mouth covered her right breast. She closed her eyes as she felt his hands exploring her body.

His hand moved along the outside of her leg as his finger slipped under the elastic of her panties. She felt his warm breath on her neck as he whispered, "Are you okay?"

She opened her eyes, which were teary as she smiled, and her tears and smile had him confused. "I'm sorry; I'm rushing you…" he spoke softly as he started to move away from her.

She rose up and grabbed his arm, "No, please don't stop. I want you; I need you…please make love to me…"

"But you're crying…"

"These are happy tears. We've waited so long to be together; I don't want to wait any longer."

He laid her back as his upper body covered hers. As soon as their lips touched, the world seemed to vanish, their eyes closed and all they could feel was each other; all they were aware of was each other, and all they cared about at that moment was each other.

As his hands moves along the silhouette of her body, she craved more, and as she looked into his eyes, she observed a hunger and desire for her that she could only assume in the way her body was responding, that he knew she was reciprocating.

His finger again hooked the elastic on the waistband of her bikini panties. As she lifted her hips slightly upward, he pulled them down her long, shapely legs, dropping them on the floor on top of her negligee.

As his hands moved up the inside of her leg, massaging her flesh, his mouth covered hers, only releasing her lips when they each sought oxygen. As his hands moved higher, she needed his touch, moaning softly as she felt him pressing against her aching flesh.

His lips moved down her body, worshipping every inch of her along the way. His tongue trailed down across her abdomen, circling her navel, tasting her salty and sweet skin as he continued downward.

The more he pressed, touched and tasted, Elizabeth felt as though she was floating above herself, somehow parting the veil between heaven and earth. As he prodded, Elizabeth felt her legs stiffen against him as her eyes closed and rolled back in her head… "Oh Jack…"

Slowly he kissed his way up her body, paying close attention to her breasts as he straddled her, clasping her hands with his and holding them level with her shoulders. Elizabeth could feel his penis pressing against her leg through his boxers.

Releasing from his hold, she slipped her hand inside his boxers. Jack rolled over, taking in his own heaven on earth moment. He lifted his hips and she carefully removed his shorts somewhat mesmerized by the size and firmness of his penis, seemingly standing at attention in honor of his new bride.

Thankful for the conversations between her friends that she had listened in on, but never participated in, she thought back to those things her girlfriends said which always seemed to drive their men wild.

Her lips pressed against his as her fingers walked down his body. Taking hold of his manhood, she felt him gasp, "Do you want me to stop?"

"No…don't stop!" he urgently responded as his eyes closed and his head rested on the pillow.

She moved her hand up and down the shaft as his hips began to work against her. Her lips started on his chest as she slowly worked her way downward having every intention of replacing her hand with her mouth.

As she reached his pelvic area, Jack's hand on her arm pulled her upward, "Not tonight."

Not understanding, because every man loves that, right… she simply let it slide. She moved up his body as his arms slipped around her waist. Rolling over, he took her body with him, coming to rest as he straddled her hips.

Pressing his legs between hers, her knees bent, and his body slipped between them. Holding his upper body above hers with his stiff arms on either side of her shoulders, he looked into her eyes, "Are you okay?"

"Yes…" she whispered.

"I'll go slow and if it hurts, I'll stop."

He couldn't help but want what was about to happen; he'd previously fought the desire, all the while fantasizing about this very moment, but there was no doubt that the real experience would undoubtedly far surpass anything in his imagination.

He gently pressed against her, slowly penetrating her body as he watched her face. He assumed that she either felt no pain or hid it well, because all he observed was a smile and a look of contentment.

Bearing down on his elbows, his lips brushed against her ear, "Are you okay?"

"I'm perfect…"

"You certainly are…" he whispered as his hips rocked forward. His rhythm was slow, cautious, as his eyes caught hers. He saw no fear, or uncertainty, only unreserved fire and passion for the relationship they had cultivated.

If there was ever a chance of his heart exploding, he felt it with Elizabeth. She was completely his soulmate, and he was certain that he could never get enough of her. Just the simple touch of her hand set his body on fire, so making love to her at this moment had him experiencing paradise.

Her hands cradled either side of his face. With such upper body strength, Jack lowered himself, but kept his body weight off her. Their lips met, and it was like an explosion of emotions as both shared tears of joy.

His rhythm became more rapid and his thrusts were hard and powerful as their bodies pounded together. His muscles worked hard under her fingers as she held on for dear life.

As he pressed deeper, she was at his mercy; bound by him, and to him. He snapped his hips, withdrawing just enough that she felt the loss of him before he filled her again with a soul shattering thrust.

His hips rocked in and out while her pelvis rose from the bed with each thrust as if seeking something in the air. His breathing was erratic, as was hers, and their moans of pleasure were much like perfectly tuned instruments playing a joyous duet.

Sparks of sensation coursed through their veins as her feet pointed like a dancer's and her toes curled. He pressed deeper, harder and faster, groaning softly with each thrust.

He held her tightly as they both exploded with a warmth that flowed through them, something she had never experienced before, and an experience for him that was perfect, and like no other.

Jack fell beside her in bed; his breathing was rough and ragged, and although her own breathing was erratic as well, she was worried about him.

"Are you okay?"

Just the simple question had him softly laughing in between trying to catch his breath. "I…should be…asking yo…you that," he barely managed to formulate the sentence.

Elizabeth rested her head on his chest as she listened to his heart pound, sounding much like the thundering hooves of a herd of wild horses. Slowly his breathing calmed, as did hers, and while his fingers drew imaginary circles on her bare back, she did the same on his chest.

Jack was exhausted. He wanted to hold her to tell her how special their first time was, and how he was certain that before tonight, he had never made love before. In his mind he was talking; he was telling her everything he felt in his heart; it's just that the words never made it past his lips. Before either of them knew it, they were skin to skin and sound asleep.

Hours later, Jack woke to find that he and Elizabeth had rolled over, and he was now pressed against her back, his arms were around her waist, and Elizabeth held his hand, pulling it up against her chest.

He kissed her neck, and hearing her moan softly, "Elizabeth…" he whispered, "Are you okay?"

She turned over in bed; the smile on her face brought about a smile of his own as he awaited her response. "Jack, last night was perfect, and…"

"Well worth the wait…" he kissed the top of her head.

"May I ask you something?" she scooted up in bed so that they were eye to eye.

"Is something wrong?"

"No, I just…well, it's about, I mean, I'm not sure why…"

"Honey, take a deep breath, and just ask."

"Jack, why didn't you want me to…you know…"

The look of confusion on his face had her trying to explain further. "I mean, I've heard my girlfriends say that men love it, but they don't want their wives to do it, like it's dirty or something. I do not understand. I mean, I thought we would share everything, so, I just don't understand."

Finally realizing what she was referring to, he leaned over and softly kissed her lips, "Honey, last night was the most profoundly emotional night of my life. To be honest with you, I had thought about this night for quite some time, and when it arrived, I was afraid that I would not last through it. When you just touched me, I felt like I was going to explode, so we will have plenty of time to experience everything together…okay?"

"Are you sure that's all it is?"

"I'm positive…"

"Okay!"

She snuggled back against his body and before long they were both back asleep.

Before morning, Elizabeth woke; she slipped on a white, hooded bathrobe provided by the Bellagio, and she walked out into the living area of their suite. She stood by the window admiring the view of the imitation Eiffel Tower.

As she stood glancing down on the street, she observed Jack's reflection behind her as he approached and slipped his arms around her waist. "What are you doing?

"Nothing, just admiring the view…"

Jack smiled and glanced in her direction, "Me too."

"Jack, I'm being serious."

"I'm quite serious, Mrs. Thornton." Jack turned her around to face him and his lips gently met hers before he swept her up into his arms.

"Whoa Jack, what are you doing?"

"It's not even daylight yet. Let's go back to bed…

"That sounds like a perfect idea," she replied as her arms went around his neck.

Jack placed her feet back on the floor as they found their way back into the bedroom. He grabbed the remote on the bedside table and turned on the stereo. Soft, soothing, romantic music was piped through the suite; it was nice, but certainly not needed to put either of them in the mood.

He took her in his arms as they danced to Kenny' G's jazz rendition of Loving You.

As they danced, Elizabeth glanced up and caught Jack's eyes before his lips met hers. As the saxophone chords became bolder, so were his kisses, as the passion built to a fevered pitch.

Only a foot or two away from the bed, Jack released the tie belt on her robe as the garment quickly opened.

Pulling the robe over her shoulders, his lips met her skin, showering her with quick kisses as the garment fell to the floor. Elizabeth's hands on his belt easily released the tie, and his robe joined hers on the floor.

Both stood naked, skin touching, bodies warming as their desires began to quickly burn through them. Jack's mouth covered hers, refusing to release her beautiful full lips as he backed her against the mattress, his hand behind her head protected her as he carefully laid her back on the bed.

His hand rested along her cheek. He stared, unable to get enough of her lips, rosy, plump and pillow soft as he kissed her deep and hard. With tears in his eyes, and cradling her face in his hands, he whispered, "I am the happiest I have ever been, and it's because of you. I love you, Elizabeth with everything I am, and I will love you forever."

Elizabeth seemed to melt into the warmth of his body as his lips trailed across her cheek and onto her neck.

Stopping at her ear, Jack whispered, "I want to make love to my wife."

She turned her head to face him, "I love the sound of that." Elizabeth felt as though her body was on fire as his hands continued to explore her. His mouth and tongue touching her in places she remembered from only hours ago, and the desire for more was driving her crazy.

She could feel his muscles strain as her hands worked their way up his arms and over his shoulders and she giggled as his hands on her waist initially tickled before he rolled her over and gave her the best back rub, albeit short in duration, she believed she'd ever had.

He rolled her over on her back as his hands continued to gently explore parts of her, he had previously touched but was certain that he would never get enough of. His lips pressed against her neck as his hand cupped her right breast. Gently rubbing circles around her nipple, he felt it quickly harden. As his lips moved down her neck and onto her chest, his hand released her breast as his mouth replaced it.

Her back arched, pressing her body closer to him, as her breathing became more rapid. His hands and mouth worked over her body, claiming her like fire as he pressed, prodded, and tasted every inch of her body.

Deciding that it was time for her to experience all there was about this magnificent man she had married; her hungry lips met his and pressed him on his back.

His respiration was rapid, and heart pounded as she kissed her way across his face, and down his chest. Her fingers walked down his abdomen and across his pelvis, taking hold of his already firm and erect penis.

Initially hearing him gasp, she released him, fearing that she had hurt him. She quickly realized as he placed her hand on his throbbing firmness that her touch felt good, and his hips began to move against her.

Elizabeth continued to kiss her way down his body, practically waiting for him to stop her again; only this time he did not. With his head rolled back on the pillow, his eyes closed and breathing heavily, her mouth cautiously replaced her hand. As she moved up and down, brushing her tongue across his sensitive skin, the low guttural moans slipping through his lips let her know that he was enjoying every bit of their time together.

Feeling as though he were about to explode, he pulled her body upward as she straddled his hips. Elizabeth was pleased that she had brought him such pleasure, and if it were possible, as he slipped inside her, she was certain that he was harder, and larger than he was just moments earlier.

With each mind-blowing thrust, Elizabeth could easily feel the strength of what was building within her. Her hips rocked forward as he pressed deeper and their rhythm became more rapid. Jack's hands around her waist pulled her closer as they rolled together, ending with him on top with no change in the intensity of their dance.

Although neither one was paying attention, a popular Marvin Gaye song was playing softly on the stereo…

I've been really tryin', baby
Tryin' to hold back this feeling for so long
And if you feel like I feel, baby
Then, c'mon, oh, c'mon

Let's get it on
Ah, baby, let's get it on
Let's love, baby
Let's get it on, sugar
Let's get it on

We're all sensitive people
With so much to give
Understand me, sugar
Since we've got to be here
Let's live
I love you

Elizabeth's legs wrapped around Jack's waist, locking at her ankles, as each movement was intensified by their closeness. Beside her, Elizabeth grabbed a fistful of bedsheets, anything to keep her grounded, as she called out his name when her body shuddered, exploding as she felt every single cell in her body screaming 'YES…'

There's nothing wrong with me
Loving you, baby no no
And giving yourself to me can never be wrong
If the love is true

Don't you know how sweet and wonderful life can be
I'm asking you baby to get it on with me
I ain't gonna worry
I ain't gonna push, won't push you baby
So c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, baby
Stop beatin' 'round the bush

Jack thrust several more times before feeling his own explosion, a sense of mind-altering euphoria that reached from the tips of his toes to the top of his head. Rolling over in bed, he mustered the energy to pull her up onto his chest as the song "Let's Get It On," continued to play in the background.

Let's get it on
Let's get it on
You know what I'm talkin' 'bout
C'mon, baby
Let your love come out
If you believe in love
Let's get it on
Let's get it on, baby
This minute, oh yeah
Let's get it on
Please, let's get it on

C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, darlin'
Stop beatin' 'round the bush
Oh, gonna get it on
Threaten' you, baby
I wanna get it on
You don't have to worry that it's wrong
If the spirit moves ya
Let me groove ya good
Let your love come down
Oh, get it on

C'mon, baby
Do you know the meaning?
I've been sanctified
Girl, you give me good feeling
I've been sanctified

As the song ended, and Jack was able to breathe again, he laughed softly, "Did you hear that?"

"What are you talking about?" she asked as her head rested on his chest.

"Let's get it on…"

"I know I'm new at this, but I thought we just did…"

"No, the song that was playing, 'Let's Get It On,' I'd say we did…"

"I didn't hear it; all I could hear was my own heartbeat pounding in my ears, but yes, I'd say we did." She lay quietly on his chest as she felt his arms tenderly rubbing up and down her back.

He pulled the covers up over them and as the sun was just beginning to rise over the city, they fell asleep in each other's arms.

Hours later, Elizabeth woke, and found Jack sitting beside her in bed watching her sleep. "I must look a mess," she whispered.

"Actually, you're still the most beautiful woman I have ever seen."

"You're prejudice, Jack."

"I'm honest…"

She opened her eyes and took hold of his hand, "You are, and you are also kind, considerate, thoughtful…and prejudice, but I love it."

"Are you hungry?" he asked.

"Is that a trick question?"

He laughed, "No, just wanted to know if you'd like something to eat, and then we can go exploring."

"That sounds perfect," she replied. "Give me a few minutes to get ready."

He leaned over and kissed her, "I love you, Mrs. Thornton. Please take all the time you like." He stood up from the bed, "I'll be out in the living room when you're ready.

Elizabeth jumped into the shower and thirty minutes later walked out into the living room wearing a pair of skinny jeans and a white sweater with cut out shoulders and her hair in a ponytail. Jack was standing at the window watching the crowd below wearing a pair of jeans and a mint green short sleeve button down shirt.

Jack took her hand and they walked into the private elevator, each one glancing at the other through the sides of their eyes waiting to see who would make the first romantic move

Jack could not resist as he pressed her up against the side elevator wall, his lips always seemingly hungry for hers. They had barely separated by the time the door opened into the lobby full of visitors and guests.

Jack and Elizabeth enjoyed breakfast outside overlooking the fountains, before setting out to sightsee.

They walked along the strip checking out attractions of interest. They stopped in on the "Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, a subject that fascinated Elizabeth well before the movie, which she admittedly saw eight times, was released. The continued on their journey, checking out Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.

Elizabeth took a picture of the Elvis figure, commenting that this was obviously done many years ago when the icon was much younger. "It doesn't look much like the guy that married us, but it will always be a conversation piece."

Elizabeth admired the Albert Einstein and Zac Efron exhibits, among others.

"Um, do you think he's better looking than me?" Jack asked as the figure, wearing red Baywatch beach trunks hanging low on his pelvis was close to leaving little to the imagination.

"Who, Albert or Zac?"

"Uh…either?"

"Jack, you have nothing to worry about; there is no man that I have ever met that comes close to comparing to you."

"No one that you've already met…? Maybe you haven't met them yet."

Elizabeth laughed softly, "I love you, and no man, wax figure or real will ever pull my attention away from you."

On their way back to the hotel, they stopped in at the MGM Grand and made their way around the casino. Elizabeth stood by while Jack won several hands of Blackjack, to the tune of $375, and then he held her hand while she lost most of his winnings on several penny machines.

"How did that happen?" she asked. "I mean I just played one hand and lost almost $50."

"That's why gambling is a dangerous habit to get into," he stated as he took her hand and headed for the cashier to collect the remaining $42.79 from his winnings.

"I'm sorry, Jack."

"Did you have fun?"

"On the few occasions that the machine lit up and I won it was a blast. Losing sucks…"

That evening for dinner, Jack dressed in a dark suit and tie and escorted Elizabeth, wearing a black off the shoulder dress to Americana Las Vegas. As they walked inside, Jack purchased a long stem red rose for his wife before they were taken to their table.

Elizabeth enjoyed a lobster meal while Jack ordered the seafood platter consisting of crab, prawn, and steak over crab fried rice.

"Hey, I was wondering something…" he muttered out loud.

"What's on your mind?" she asked.

"Well, my mom lives out on the west coast and I thought that maybe since we were…"

"I'd love to meet her, Jack. I'm just sorry that she was not able to be at the wedding. She's liable to hate me for that one."

"No, she'll love you, because I love you," he assured her. "So, maybe we could change our flight and go through Tacoma for a day or two?"

"I have to call the personnel department and get a few days off from work, but I don't think it will be a problem," she agreed.

When the meals arrived, Elizabeth giggled, "Are you hungry?"

Looking at all of the food on his plate, he remarked, "I have to keep up my energy level. We are on our honeymoon after all."

"Eat away…"

After dinner, as they walked out of the restaurant, one of the staff directed them to the photo booth. Jack was not so certain that he wanted his picture taken, but Elizabeth begged, saying "We want to commemorate those activities we can while we're here…please Jack…"

Holding the red rose Jack had given her at dinner, they stepped inside the booth. Their first picture was serious, but their second one was more playful. Standing outside the booth, Jack pulled the strip from the machine before they headed back to their room and their second night as husband and wife…

To be continued…