Chapter 20: Her choice

Carli stepped out of the shower and went into the bedroom to towel herself dry. It was 6 p.m, four hours after her aunt had boarded that private plane. Lissa had woken up and left to spend time with her boyfriend, Derrick. She was acting strange as far as Carli was concerned. 

Jason suggested that it was her cousin's coping mechanism for dealing with the trauma of her dad being sick and vulnerable in a foreign country, and her mom having to leave abruptly to go get him. She looked sullen, but she barely asked Carli details about the situation with her dad. It was like she shut down. 

Carli got dressed and headed downstairs. Jason was cooking dinner. In fact, since the whole incident happened, Jason had stepped up and was doing the cooking. All she did was eat and help wash the dishes after. Jason was a great cook. He always added a different spin to traditional Jamaican meals and they were always pleasurable to the taste buds. 

He was in the kitchen now preparing Escoveitch Fish and Spanish Rice. He also steamed some pak choi. For a beverage he chose to do Otaheite Apple juice. Carli slipped her arms around his waist. She rested her head on his back. She breathed in the intoxicating smell of his cologne. She especially loved the scent on his freshly bathed skin. She inhaled him deeply. She pressed her face into his back and bit him gently. Jason put down the knife in his hand and clasped his hands over hers and squeezed affectionately. 

"You okay baby?" he asked.

"Mhm, just so glad you're here. Baby, I just wanna say I appreciate you for doing this for me, for my family. You've stepped up in this situation: cooking and being my comfort. I love you so much. Thank you," Carli said turning her head sideways so she could rest her face on the fabric of his shirt.

Jason turned around and pulled her into his warm embrace. His left hand cradled her head on his chest while his right hand caressed her back. She leaned into him savoring his strength which was belied by his gentle touch. "I wish you could comfort me in a way we can both enjoy," she said to him. Her voice was low and husky.

Jason cupped her face with the hand that cradled her head. She looked up at him. "You know I really want to, but you also know we can't, not yet. But, I promise to satisfy you the way you want me to when you're my wife," he told her. His eyes burned into her. She knew he was fighting himself. She sighed. She loved him enough to not press him. 

"Baby, thank you for wanting to wait for me," she said reaching up to touch his face. 

Jason smiled lovingly at her. "Thank you for waiting for me too, baby. I know if you wanted to, you could tempt me into making love to you," he said.

Carli chuckled and said, "Maybe, but I don't want to cheapen what we have by forcing you against your conscience. I love you, and after that time when the Holy Spirit convicted me, I said I don't want to do it if both our hearts aren't in it. Plus, I want to honor God. I just wish it wasn't so hard. I feel like I'm literally burning up for you."

Jason bent down, wrapped his arms under her butt and playfully lifted her in the air. Carli giggled as he spun her around. He threw her up in the air then grabbed her around her waist as she was falling. He spun her around again. Carli was laughing while Jason grinned boyishly up at her. He let her down slowly, tenderly capturing her mouth with his. He kissed her deeply savoring the taste of her soft, full lips. He groaned softly and heard Carli respond with her own sexy, guttural sound. 

He lowered her further then guided her legs around his hips and walked with her to the living room. He placed her on the blue couch and lay on top of her. He kissed her more sensually using his tongue to seduce her. He heard her moan softly. He lifted his upper body and looked down at her. Carli looked up at him. Her eyes told him that her love for him was real. 

He touched her face and wrapped his arms around her. Using his legs and arms he moved her body over towards the back of the couch so he could have room on it with her. Cradling her, he lay beside her. Her face was pressed to his chest. She secured her legs around him. One hand was tucked cosily under his arm while she placed the other under her head. Jason held her so close he could feel her warm breath on his neck. 

He cuddled with her for several minutes, enjoying her warm, soft curves on him. "I love you sweet baby," he said. "If I could be deep inside you right now with no guilt I would." 

Carli was basking in his gentle but strong embrace. "I know," she said, "but you're worth the wait." She sighed and closed her eyes. Jason closed his eyes momentarily. He would give her five more minutes then go back to finishing dinner.

After five minutes had passed, Jason lovingly caressed her buttocks and said: "Sweet baby, I have to finish cooking dinner. I already fried the fish but I need to add the vinegar. Wish I could stay here with you like this for longer, but I don't want us to eat late."

Carli nodded. "Okay. I understand," she said sticking out her lower lip as if she was pouting. Jason chuckled. His beard had grown up a bit. He used it to playfully rub against her cheek as she lifted her head to look at him.  Carli giggled. She used the hand that was tucked under his arm to touch his beard. 

He smiled at her, admiring her beauty. "What do you think about me growing out my beard?" he asked her.

"I like it," she said. "Remember, the first time I met you by the Main Library? You had a short one. You looked really handsome with it."

Jason nodded. He remembered. He had a nicely shaped up beard, but shaved it off afterwards, He didn't have the time to commit to its grooming. But now he was feeling like changing things up and growing it out. He had allowed it to grow in its natural form so far --no trimming or cutting. He was however planning to have something done to it soon.

"So you don't mind me growing my beard?" he asked her.

"No baby. I love it. It tickles my face and neck when you kiss me ... and other areas," she said smiling cheekily. She saw his expression and laughed covering her mouth. 

With his left eyebrow raised in surprise Jason watched her, feeling amused. She looked adorable covering her mouth while she laughed. 

You sweet, little vixen I know exactly what I'm gonna do to you when I get the chance, he thought. He reached out and tickled her. She squealed with laughter. 

"So you like when my beard brushes on your thighs and sweet kitty, eh?" he said while tickling her sides.

Carli laughed and tried to wriggle away from him. She tried to sit up and climb over him to run away, but he held on to her and tickled her further. Carli decided that a good offence was good defence. She started tickling him. Jason laughed heartily, howling as she playfully attacked his armpits. 

When he couldn't take it anymore he jumped up from the couch, stepping away from her. With mischief in her eyes, Carli got up to go after him. Jason ran away from her and Carli chased him. She chased him to the foyer and backed him up at the front door, tickling him again. 

He grabbed her, pushed her arms behind her back and kissed her passionately. Carli responded fervently. Jason released her and allowed her arms to wrap around his neck. He pulled her hard against his chest and squeezed her buttocks. Carli gasped as she looked up at him, her eyes wide with wonder and desire. 

He bent his head, circled his arms around her waist and kissed her, crushing his lips on hers as if his life depended on it. He gripped her hard, squeezing her waist. He groaned his need for her. Carli melted against him. The aggressive way he held her made her feel weak. She would allow him to do whatever he wanted to her.  

Jason gripped her hips and began pressing his groin on hers. He could feel sexual heat rising within him. The romp between them, though innocent, was triggering an erotic side of him that he was trying to hold back from her. If they went further he would be too excited to stop himself from being rough with her. He was fearful he would hurt her.

Wanting to cool things down between them, Jason lifted his face away from hers and rested his chin on her head. They were both breathing heavily; heart beats racing. He rocked her gently from side to side, still holding her close. 

Carli closed her eyes, pursed her lips and tried to relax. She breathed in deeply and released her breath slowly. Jason forced himself to think of something else other than her bare flesh on top of him. He rocked her in his arms for several more minutes until both their breathing and heart rates slowed down. 

He released her slowly then cupped her face. "We can't do that again. Okay?" he said.

"Why?" she asked.

Jason moved away from her, walking towards the kitchen. Carli followed him. She needed to understand.

"That was too intense. I almost lost control. You don't have much experience. I've told you, there's a side of me that I'm afraid might hurt you," he said. He was angry with himself. 

"Jason, I've told you, I'm willing to experience it for you," she said. "I may not be able to handle all of that side of you right away, but I'm willing to work towards it, for you. Baby, I want to please you. My body belongs to you and I want to satisfy you in every way." She held on to his arm. He turned and looked at her. 

"I'm yours and I trust you. You once told me that as a Christian man, you are obligated to treat your wife with care as the weaker vessel, right?" she asked.

"Correct," he said. 

"I know you love God enough, and you love me enough not to do anything to hurt me. And I believe the God who lives inside you won't allow you to hurt me. I believe in Him, and I trust you to lead me carefully, both in life and love." She stood up on tiptoe to kiss his cheek. He bent forward to receive it. 

"If you get a little rough I can manage, because I know you're worth any risk I take for you, and I also know you won't do anything to hurt me, really. Just the way you're acting now shows me I'm safe with you. You care about my safety and I love you even more for that," she said.

Jason sighed. On their wedding night he would pray to God that he would be able to control his primal urges for her sake. She leaned into him and hugged him. Jason hugged her back, closing his eyes.  He prayed in his heart:

Father God help me,

I need your help to be a good man to her.

Please Father I pray,

I don't want to hurt her

Help me to control myself.

In Jesus name,

Amen.

"Allow me to trust you Jason, please," she said pleading with him. He sighed. He kissed her brow and circled his arms around her shoulders.

"I usually have devotions in the mornings around 6 o'clock, would you want to join me?" he asked. It was about time they grew together through application of scripture.

Carli nodded. "Sure. Your room or mine?' she asked.

Jason smiled. "Let's have it in the kitchen garden where we first had our convos," he told her.

Carli agreed. "Okay. Not a problem," she said.

"Going to finish up dinner now," he said still holding her.

"Okay, Jasey," she said smiling sweetly at him.

Jason laughed softly and released her. He entered the kitchen while Carli decided to lay on the blue couch to relax.

****

Lissa stumbled in at 3:00 in the morning. Jason heard a strange sound coming from downstairs. He opened the guest room door to hear someone singing loudly offkey. He came out of the room and stood at the top of the stairs looking down at the hallway. He realized it was Lissa. He went back into the room and pulled on an old t-shirt and a pair of shorts. He walked down slowly to meet her. She was holding on to the staircase and singing with horrible dissonance in her voice. Jason chuckled. She was really drunk.

When she saw him, she blurted out, "Carli's boy toy or toy boy. What's up?" She giggled. Jason shook his head. He was gearing up to hear things from her she probably wouldn't say if she was sober. He extended his hand to her. "Let me help you up to your room," he said, smiling at her kindly.

"Boy toy, you want my body, but I don't want you. Sure, you look good. You have a nice body," she said staggering towards him. She almost fell before she reached his hand. Jason moved swiftly and caught her. Her face hit his chest with a soft thud. Jason grabbed her hands and pulled her upright. Lissa was taller than Carli but he was much taller than her. Just like her aunt, if she stood up straight, her head would be at the height of his shoulders.

She leaned on him and pressed the palm of her hands on his pecs and laughed softly. "Wooh!" she said. "You are quite firm. I can see why Carli is crazy about you." 

Jason smiled and shook his head. He tucked her arm in his and walked with her up the stairs. He opened her bedroom door and escorted her inside. He made her sit on the bed while he stooped down and removed her shoes. She leaned over on top of his back. 

"You smell really nice. Do you always smell this good?" Lissa asked. She giggled. 

Jason went on his knees before her and removed her jacket and the ID she had around her neck. He placed them on her night table. He put his left arm under her knees and his right arm behind her back. His right hand pulled her back while his left arm bore the weight of lifting her up to the top of the bed. She was heavier than Carli, but he had no problem lifting her. Lissa giggled. "You're strong too," she said. She tugged at his shirt to pull him down to her. Jason gently pried her hand from his shirt, went to the door, opened it and closed it behind him.

****

The next day Jason called Bello to ask for more time. He agreed to give him three more days. So he would have only one week. He made breakfast and brought a tray with a cup of hot ginger tea up to Lissa's room with her breakfast. He had cooked liver and boiled bananas, yams and dumplings, but he decided to toast two slices of wheat bread for Lissa with a small serving of the stewed liver. He held the tray across his arm then knocked on her door. 

He heard movement, then a muffled groan. Looking quite grumpy and disheveled Lissa opened the door. She was still wearing her work clothes from last night. 

Lissa looked up at him and Jason noticed that her face seemed suddenly flushed. "Ha ... hi, good, good morning," she stuttered. Jason smiled at her kindly. He adjusted the tray in his hands. "I brought you breakfast," he said.

She moved back so he could bring the food in for her. He laid it on the night table. She had already taken up her jacket and ID. She looked at him. "Thank you. It looks really delicious," she said. Jason nodded and smiled. He moved towards the door. 

"Jason," she called to him.

He looked around. 

"Thank you for helping me last night, and ... and for being a gentleman," she told him.

Jason smiled at her and nodded. He left her room quietly. 

Lissa looked around at her plate of food. Carli was definitely a lucky girl.

****

His baby was still in bed. He wanted to have devotion with her. He had delayed because he wanted to make sure Lissa had something nourishing to eat. Jason knocked on Carli's door. "I'm up," he heard her say, "come inside."

He opened the door to see her on her phone, her back resting on the headboard. He walked in smiling at her. "Did you forget you were supposed to have devotion with me?" he asked amused.

"No, I didn't forget, but after last night I felt you might want to sleep in late," she said smiling at him.

"Why would I?" he asked puzzled.

She threw off the covers from her feet and stood up. "I saw you helping Lissa up the stairs. She was drunk as a skunk. I'm so glad you are here, I don't know if I could manage to help her up the stairs," she replied. She straightened out the bed sheet, then smiled at him broadly. She reached for him, circling her arms around his waist. Jason kissed her head and closed his eyes while he held her. She was wearing pink tights and a white baggy t-shirt.

"I also heard the things she said to you. And I'm not mad at her. You are sexy, very sexy," she told him. She possessively ran her hands across his broad back. "I'm so glad to have you. So glad you chose me to be your wife. I can't wait to give you all my love. All of me."

Jason opened his eyes and put her away from him slightly so he could look at her face. He still held her. He saw desire smoldering in her gaze but also admiration. He felt good to know that he had her love and respect. He pulled her to him, bent his head and kissed her brow. He caressed her close to him. 

Jason sighed happily and closed his eyes. "I love you sweet baby," he said. "You make it easy to love you. I'm so blessed to have you. And I can't wait to give you all of me too." He rubbed her back. 

After a while he released her and picked up her phone from the bed. "What were you looking at?" he asked.

"Oh, I was looking at a few Bible verses I want to discuss with you," she said smiling at him. She took the phone from him, unlocked it and showed him what she was talking about. 

Jason nodded. "Okay, we can look at those then. I usually use a Bible app that uncle Pat sent to me, but I am familiar with these verses, so yes, we can look at them." He reached his hand out to her.  She gave her hand to him.

He held her hand as they descended the stairs. They walked into the garden and sat together on the old sawed off tree stump. He opened his phone and searched for St. John chapter 3 in the New Testament. 

Carli leaned on him, resting her head on his shoulder. He opened his arm and circled it around her shoulder to make her comfortable. He kissed her brow briefly. He prayed to God that their time in devotion would reveal his truth to them. That the Lord's will and purpose in the verses will be revealed and that after they would feel closer to Christ. 

He read the verses while she listened to him:

"St. John chapter 3:

1 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.”

3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”

4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”

5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

9 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked.

10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? 11 Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.."

"I've stopped at verse 18, okay?" he told her.

Carli nodded. "Okay," she said.

Jason smiled to himself as he thought of how to break it down for her: "Pharisees were the religious leaders or priests, say pastors then, in Jesus' time. They were the ones that taught the Law. The Law is like certain religious rules the Jewish people must follow. There are rules about preparing yourself to go to worship at the temple/synagogue and so on. So these men --the Pharisees were men --they would be like the gate keepers who were entrusted to make sure that the Law was not breached by the people. They would teach the common people about rules pertaining to being ritually clean, paying tithes and so on. Unfortunately, their attitude was, do as we say, not as we do.

"In this passage, one of them, Nicodemus, a pharisee that was quite respected, decided that he wanted to speak to Jesus because he had some questions for him. The problem is, he wasn't brave enough to go see Jesus in the light of day. The Pharisees did not respect Jesus. They saw Him as a trouble maker and they were probably jealous of the influence he had on the people."

"So you're saying by going to Jesus, Nicodemus was sort of defying the other Pharisees' wishes?" she asked.

Jason nodded and said, "Mhm, yeah he was, but he wasn't strong enough in his conviction to go in broad daylight. The opinions of his fellow priests were more important to him than knowing Jesus. He loved his position as a Pharisee and didn't want to jeopardize that."

"What about the being 'born again' part and the part about the wind blowing or something like that, what do those things mean?" Carli asked.

Jason squeezed her shoulder. She asked good questions. "When you become a Christian, the Holy Spirit comes and lives in your heart and changes you from the inside out. No one can really explain how this happens, it's a mystery, and when we become Christians we are different from other persons, our perspective on life changes, and no one really understands us because we no longer belong to this world and its system. That's what the two phrases mean," he said. 

"The Jews were used to performing rituals as a way to get closer to God. They believed that the things they did would make them righteous and justify them before God, but nothing they did could satisfy God's standard for goodness. 

'As a matter of fact, all of us have gone astray and do what pleases us, not God. There is nothing we do that can please God even if we tried. The Law was good but none of us could fulfill all it requires perfectly. We would fail. The Law says do not lie or steal or kill or commit sexual immorality, but we fail every time. Even just to think about doing these things shows how messed up we are."

Carli listened thinking about how she longed to be with Jason sexually. She felt weird.

"I love you. My body yearns for your touch. I long to be one with you again. Is that wrong?" she asked.

Jason shook his head. He pressed his head on hers briefly then moved back. "No baby. I'd love to be with you too. When we made love it was such a beautiful experience for me, but we need to do the right thing and follow God's plan for sex. He wants us to express our love to each other as husband and wife. God created marriage so we can enjoy sex safely, as a beautiful and righteous experience. You know we're working towards that, so don't be sad. We just have to make sure we save up our love for that night and afterwards."

"Let's look at verses 16 to 18," he said. He read it again. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son." 

Jason watched as Carli's brow knotted slightly while she listened. "Is there anything in it you don't understand," he asked.

"I remember the story about Adam and Eve and what they did, which is why we're such messed up creatures: Why would God bother? Why would He want to save us? I mean I know we weren't there, it was Adam and Eve who did the deed, but wouldn't it be best to just start all over?"

Jason listened carefully, then asked, "What do you mean by starting over?"

"I mean creating new people?" I mean I'm glad to be alive, but I guess if I were God I wouldn't be bothered with us. We're too much trouble and then God had to send his innocent Son to suffer for our wrongs. It doesn't seem fair to Jesus or the Father," she said. Her countenance changed. She was sad.

Jason gently stroked her arm. He looked off in the distance and thought of what to say to her. "Think about baking a delicious cake, something to be enjoyed by your family or friends, but in the process of baking it something goes wrong, would you just throw it away? You've spent time preparing the recipe for the cake, then went out and gathered your ingredients, but in the process of baking or applying the icing something goes wrong and the cake is marred in some way, what would you do?"

Carli thought about what he said. If she had worked hard on a cake but something had gone wrong with it, if there was a way to salvage something good from it she would try her best to. She looked at the grass underneath her feet. For some reason she became overwhelmed with emotion and tears began streaming down her face. 

Jason looked at her surprised. "What's wrong?" he asked, pulling her closer to him. 

"I wouldn't throw the cake away. I would try my best to save it, especially if it meant a lot to me," she said crying softly.

Jason leaned over and kissed her head. "That's exactly how the Father and the Son feel about us. We are their special masterpiece. In Genesis 1 verse 26 it says all of the Godhead --the Father, Son and Holy Spirit came together to create us, through creating Adam, the human father of mankind. He found the verse on his phone and read it to her: 

Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."

"When God created Adam and Eve they were perfect, no sin, and He would come and talk with them. The Bible hinted that God would come down in the evenings to spend time with them. Carli, He genuinely wants a relationship with us. If you had a best friend, but there was a misunderstanding or an argument between you too, would you say forget about her or him, I can't be bothered?"

Carli sighed. "No, I would try to work it out with them," she said.

"Exactly. God loved us so much He decided that no matter the cost, he would do whatever it took to restore a relationship with us. Even though we sinned against Him, He wouldn't give up on us," he said smiling at her. "He sent His Son, but also Christ was a willing party. He wanted to come get us."

Carli leaned on Jason's chest. She cried softly. "He loves me," she said in awe.

Jason stroked her hair. He felt like his eyes would well up with tears also, "Yes He does. That's why Christ came and all He asks is that we believe He came from the Father; that we accept His love; His forgiveness, and His gift of salvation through his sacrifice --dying on the cross --so we can be saved. That's what the part about being lifted up means, he was nailed to a cross and elevated off the ground, hanging on the wooden planks they nailed him to. But he willingly did that for us. Yes, he died but on the third day he rose again, so we can have hope in Him.

"If we accept His love and acknowledge that his sacrifice was for us and we need Him, He comes and lives in us. His Holy Spirit comes and changes us so we can be more like Jesus and of course have eternal life and be where He is. It's because of sin why there's disease and death and pain, but God promises us that one day He'll take all of that away and we can be with him in a world that is pure and beautiful."

"It sounds wonderful," Carli said sobbing. "But how can we be sure this will happen?"

Jason kissed her brow and said, "We have the words of Christ in the Bible to reassure us, and we have the Holy Spirit in us as confirmation of God's promise to one day save us from this sinful world. Carli, the fact that you are here asking me these questions is proof that the Holy Spirit lives in you. Most folks have no interest in the things we're discussing. Jesus loves you."

Carli hugged him. Jason leaned towards her and circled his arms around her as she cried.

After she calmed down, she moved out of his embrace and dried her eyes. She looked at him. "I want to be baptized," she said. 

Jason smiled broadly. He was glad to hear it. "Are you sure?" he asked.

Carli smiled back at him. "Yes, I'm sure," she said.

Jason hugged her happily. "Oh thank God," he said. "I love you Carli and God loves you! The Bible says that thousands of angels in heaven are now rejoicing because you have made that choice!" He squeezed her tight to him. 

Jason started planning in his mind: In the evening he would call uncle Pat to tell him the good news and also ask how soon she could be a part of the discipleship classes and be baptized. He would then ask him about arranging a wedding at the church. He was happy.

****

While having breakfast Jason watched her. He was so lucky. He knew it wasn't luck really, but that's how she made him feel. He watched her eating, her eyes focused on the plate of food before her. When she looked up and realized he was staring at her, she blushed. She smiled and giggled a little. 

"What is it?" she asked giggling.

"Baby, thank you for my gift. That was very thoughtful of you," he said looking into her eyes. "I know you've been worried about your aunt and uncle, but I wanted to let you know I love the gift you gave me. It was very thoughtful of you." He leaned forward and kissed her forehead. 

Carli smiled. She stretched her hand across the table towards him. He took it, opened the palm and bit into the padded part gently. The sensation of his gentle bites sent shivers down her spine. She playfully blew him a kiss. "I'm glad you like it. I was passing by a store and saw it through the front display. As soon as I saw it I thought of you. You told me once that you used to paint and sketch. I hoped you would like it," she said.

"Yes, I love it very much. I have it with me in one of my bags. As soon as I get home I'm gonna find someplace to put it," he said chuckling. Playfully, he kissed the palm of her hand, then rubbed his beard on her wrist. He turned her hand over, opened his mouth slightly and slipped her middle finger inside it. He suckled on her finger gently, watching her reaction. Carli bit her lower lip. She felt her body respond to him. He was suckling on her finger slowly. She watched him close his eyes as he teased her. She heard him groan softly. 

Oh gosh! What should I do? Should I go and sit on him and kiss him or .... His deep raspy voice pulled her from her thoughts. "Carli baby, I want to taste you so bad. I want to see you cum so I can lick up your sweet honey," he said. She watched him swallow hard as he looked at her. 

Carli stood up. She went to him. She looked down at him. He looked up at her. She placed her hands on shoulders and positioned herself to sit on him. "No baby, I don't want you to sit on me like that," he said.

Jason drew his chair away from the table. He pulled her to him. He touched her right thigh, lifting her leg over his lap. She followed his lead and straddled him. She sat facing him. "Jason, I love you," she said her voice breathy. 

Jason leaned forward, kissing her slowly and tenderly. He brought her closer to his torso by cupping her bottom and pulling her to his chest. Carli moaned.  "Jason, please, maybe we shouldn't," she said trying to control her breathing. 

He groaned. "Carli, if you only knew how crazy you make me feel," he said. He kissed her more passionately. He pulled his lips away and looked at her. "I want to take you like this on our wedding night," he told her. He lifted her by her bottom and began bouncing her on his crotch. Carli gasped. She could feel him moving under her as he bounced her up and down. She moaned and closed her eyes. His hard thighs and hardened member hitting on her crotch and bottom were making her wet. 

She bit her lip. "Jason, please," she moaned. "Baby, please stop."

"Carli, I don't want to stop. I want you right now," he said, his voice deep and gruff. He squeezed her buttocks, gripping her so he could increase the pace of his thrusts under her while he bounced her on him. His eyes were closed.

"Baby, please, please ... Please stop, please. You said we should save it. Please stop," Carli pleaded with him. She was making those whimpering sounds that drove him crazy, but she would still try to get him to stop. Her body wanted it, but she wanted to do the right thing. 

"Baby please!" she cried between whimpers.

The sharp sound of her voice made him pause. Jason opened his eyes and looked at her. Bending his head he grunted. He let out a growl. He sighed and rested his head on her chest. 

He started to breathe deeply. He closed his eyes. His head was still resting on her chest. He bent his head lower so that his face was nestled on her cleavage. Carli felt a tear slip from her eyes. She caressed his hair. 

"Baby, I'm so sorry," she said.

Jason held her tighter. He sighed deeply. 

"I want to ask your dad for your hand. I want to do this right," he told her. His voice was raspy.

Carli nodded. "Baby, I love you. When do you want to see them. I think my dad is on leave now because he wants to spend time with mommy."

"I wanna go on Monday down to Manchester, or maybe we can go Sunday night and stay over if that's okay. I have to go back to Mobay on Wednesday," he said. "Baby, I wanna move as fast as possible, this waiting is killing me."

"Okay baby, should I call or would you want to call him?" she asked. 

"I'll call him. Just give me his number," Jason said trying to calm his mind. He gently rubbed her back. Carli leaned back and looked at him. His head was still down. "Baby, look at me," she said.

Jason lifted his head. He looked at her with a dark, brooding stare. His beautiful hazel eyes were now the color of polished bronze. Carli marveled at how expressive his eyes were according to his mood. They took her breath away. She touched his face. 

"You have beautiful eyes," she said. Jason bit his lower lip and smiled at her. He chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. She was gonna drive him mad. She leaned forward to kiss his eyelids. He closed his eyes so she could kiss them. 

Carli leaned back and watched him. When he opened his eyes again she saw that his gaze had softened towards her. She watched in amazement as flecks of yellow and grey appeared in the irises of his eyes. Jason closed his eyes again, opened them and looked at her. The color of his eyes cooled to a paler shade.

He lifted her off his lap as his stood up. He brushed his right hand on her cheek and kissed her brow. Carli looked at him intently observing the color of his eyes. They were the same. Jason looked at her amused.

"What is it?" he asked her, smiling.

"The eyes are truly the windows to the soul," she said in wonderment.

Jason hugged her and kissed her forehead. 

****

Saturday

Jason woke up, made breakfast and brought it to Carli while she lay in bed. He placed the tray of food on her night table then sat on the edge of the bed looking at her. He touched her gently and woke her up. She stirred, looked up at him and smiled. She reached up and touched his face. 

Jason smiled and kissed her forehead, leaning back he took her in, filling his eyes with the sight of her. "You are so beautiful, do you know that?" he said. His eyes shone with affection. She seemed different after her declaration of wanting to be baptized. There was a light shining in her that he was drawn to. He knew that God's love was shining through her and he was happy.

Carli sat up and looked over at the food. It looked delicious. She looked at him. Since she cried and told him she wanted to be baptized, she felt different. She couldn't explain it, but she was at peace and she felt even more in love with Jason than before. She had an even greater respect for him. He opened her eyes to something really special, Christ's love. 

She thought of what happened between them after breakfast yesterday. She probably should have been scared but she wasn't. Deep down she knew he wouldn't force her. He was fighting himself. It would have been so easy for him to force himself on her if he wanted to, but he didn't. After he stopped, he told her he was going for a drive. She allowed him to go and cool off. When he came back he brought a small box of chocolates. He apologized and told her he loved her and he would never hurt her. She had hugged him and told him, "I know."

Carli lovingly touched Jason's face again and smiled at him. 

The smile took Jason's breath away. God thank you. He thought. You are good to me. Thank you for this beautiful gift in front of me. She reached for the tray. Jason took it up for her and placed it on her lap. He leaned forward, kissed her brow and sat back down on the bed. 

"I'm gonna swing by Marsha's today. I'm gonna take her for hotdogs and sodas and I'm gonna find out what's happening with her," he told his wife-to-be.

Carli smiled and nodded. "Okay, just make sure you think of me at least half the time you're there," she said.

He cupped her face and said, "I will think of you the whole time I'm there. I'm yours and only yours." 

Carli leaned forward and gave him a soft but brief kiss on his lips. "I love you," she said.

"I love you sweet baby," he replied.

Around 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon, Jason called Marsha to confirm if she would still be going out with him. She confirmed and said she was actually finishing a load of laundry and would be in the shower by the next three minutes. Jason told her okay and he would be over there by 2 p.m. as they planned.

When Jason pulled up in front of Marsha's house, he didn't have to wait long. She stepped outside before he could dial her number. She walked towards him. She was wearing a dark blue blouse and jeans skirt, but its length rested on her knees. It looked like a new purchase. She wore black flip flops. She was carrying a small black bag over her shoulder. Her hair was brushed into a neat bun at the top of her head.

As Marsha walked towards Jason's vehicle she looked at him. He looked handsome. His hair wasn't low cut so it was curly and shiny. He still had the ruggedly sexy beard. He was wearing a white t-shirt. When she entered the vehicle she realized he was wearing a pair of black jeans and grey crocs. 

He reached over and gave her a brief hug. She smelt his cologne and closed her eyes. He smelt so good. He moved back and looked at her. Marsha opened her eyes and realized he was watching her. She blushed and looked away from him out the passenger side window. 

Jason looked at her quizzically. He started the car and drove off. Marsha decided to break the ice. "I like your car," she said.

Jason looked over at her briefly and smiled. It felt like there was a question lurking. "Go ahead, you know you wanna ask," he said amused.

"I don't know a lot about cars but my dad works in the insurance business as you know. This looks like something that would be expensive insurance wise. How much did it cost you to buy it?" she asked.

Jason chuckled. "The insurance is actually reasonable. As for the price I paid for the vehicle, the vehicle was actually owned by Carli's aunt. She sold it to me for a decent price. And since I'm dating her niece, she's being lenient on me paying it off," he said smiling at her.

Marsha looked at him eyebrows raised. She was happy for him. Yeah, I can't compete with that, Marsha mused. She shook her head and smiled ruefully. "Well, I'm happy for you," she said.

Jason smiled at her. "Thank you," he said chuckling softly. 

He drove them up to Devon House to buy from a hotdog vendor on the property. He made her sit in the car while he went to get their dogs and something to drink. When he got back she was on her phone listening to music. She saw that his hands were full. She opened the car door for him. He slipped inside and said, "Thanks." He handed her hotdog and juice with a straw, 

There was a bag filled with a copious amount of fries. He handed it to her. Marsha took out two pieces and bit into them and swallowed. She pulled off the paper wrapper from her straw and stuck it in her drink cup. Jason bought a beer to drink with his hotdog. Marsha looked at him amused, thinking it was a weird combination but said nothing. She watched as he bit into his hotdog then sipped the beer.

Jason knew she was watching him intently. He looked over at her. She looked gorgeous in a different sort of way. He was beginning to like this new Marsha. 

"So, how is your wife-to-be?" Marsha asked.

Jason smiled. "She's doing okay. There was something going on with her uncle but all will be well. He should be back by tomorrow." 

"I'm surprised you would call me. Carli seems like she's the jealous type," she said sipping her juice.

"And you're not?" he asked amused.

Marsha laughed softly. "I am, yes. I guess most women are if not all." 

"She can be, but I try to reassure her. I let her know what's going on with me so she can trust me," he said.

Marsha's eyebrows flew up. "So she knows you're here with me then?" she asked.

"Yes, she does," Jason replied.

"And she's cool with it?" Marsha asked stunned. "I was trying to have a relationship with you."

Jason bit into his hotdog and chewed. After swallowing, he said, "I make sure she knows how much I love her, and she's the only one for me."

Marsha felt a little jealous but smiled. She nodded. "She's a very lucky girl," she said.

"Nope," he said, "I'm the lucky one."

After he finished eating he wiped his hands on the paper napkin and turned to her. He watched her daintily eating her hotdog. Even the way she was eating was different. It was unnerving. Remembering the post her best friend published, he tried to gently ease into why he asked her out. 

"If there was something bothering you would you tell me?" Jason asked her. 

Marsha finished her last piece of the hotdog then dug into the fries. After stuffing a few in her mouth and chewing, she sat back with a satisfied look on her face. She handed the fries bag to him. She looked into his gaze. "Yeah, I guess I would. Now that we're good, we can chat more regularly. By the way, is Carli okay with us corresponding?"

Jason nodded. He took out a few fries and put them in his mouth.  "Yes, she is. As long as it's just friendship, you and I are good with her," he said chewing slowly.

Marsha nodded. "Okay." She wanted no trouble and she didn't want to be cut off from her friend again. 

He drew closer to her. "Tell me what's going on with you? Have you registered for this semester's classes yet?" he asked. He continued to eat the warm, crispy fries while listening keenly to her.

"Yeah I have. You?" she asked.

"Yeah, I have," he said after swallowing.

"It's your final year, nuh?" she smiled at him.

Jason nodded smiling at her. "Yes it is." He licked the salty flavor from his lips.

Marsha watched his tongue, mesmerized. 

"What will you do when you're finished?" she asked. Her throat suddenly felt dry. She took several sips of her juice.

"Well, I'll be married in April and afterwards, I'll be working full-time with my dad," he answered.

Marsha was surprised. "So you and the old geezer made up?" she asked.

Jason chuckled. "Yeah, he's trying to make up for lost time, so I'm trying to make peace with him," he said smiling. Jason ate the last three crispy fries then chugged down his beer. He had his dad's genes. It was very difficult for him to get tipsy from drinking beer.

"I'm happy for you, Jason," she said, watching him. She reached out and touched his wrist. Realizing what she had done, she removed her hand quickly. Jason went for her hand and clasped it in his. Marsha looked up at him nervously. What was he doing? She thought.

Jason looked at her. He saw the fear in her eyes. He swore under his breath. Marsha was stunned by the word that came out of his mouth. "Marsha, I know," he said. He looked at her with a hurt expression on his face.

"What are you talking about?" she asked nervously.

"I saw a post Fallon made on one of her socials about a party you guys went to and an older man assaulted you." Jason squeezed her hand in his.

Marsha eyes widened in alarm. She didn't know Fallon posted anything about that night, couple weeks ago. "She called my name?" Marsha asked stunned.

Jason shook his head. "No," he said, "it's just the way you've been acting. Wearing clothes that cover you up. When I held you the other day you were trembling. You seem so unsure of yourself now. You won't even wear makeup. You've lost weight. Marsha, maybe me not speaking to you would affect you, but not like this," he asserted.

He reached his hand out and cupped her face. "She never mentioned your name. She just said her friend was assaulted, but after observing how you've been behaving, I realized it had to be you," he said. "Marsha, talk to me. Tell me what happened?"

Marsha sighed. "I was upset over the fact that you blocked me. I went to spend a week with Fallon to take my mind off things. She dragged me to half a dozen parties. The last one I went to was where I had the encounter with this older guy. I was drunk and felt tired so I went up to a bedroom to get some sleep. I was at a house party. The house belonged to Fallon's cousin's girlfriend. In the night, I felt someone tug at my clothes, when I cried out he slapped me across my face and told me to shut up. At first I thought, maybe I deserve this. I've been a bad friend and daughter so maybe I deserved this..."

Jason held on tighter to her hand. As she started to cry he released her hand and pulled her to him, putting his arms around her. The dam of emotions broke in her. Jason held her as she sobbed. 

He sighed. "Did he ...?" he asked awkwardly.

Marsha shook her head. "No, thank God. The party had some servers there, topless male servers. When I cried out for help, one of them busted through the door and fought him off. Two others came in and held on to the guy until the police came. The one who helped me stayed with me until Fallon heard what happened and came for me." 

Jason was glad there were men there who protected her. "I'm so glad someone was there to help you," he said, relieved.

Marsha nodded. "Me too," she said. She pulled away from him and looked into his eyes. "I wanted to tell you but ... "

Jason brushed his thumb on her left cheek. "It's okay. I'm here now and I'm gonna make sure we can resolve our issues better. I'm not stepping back from you again," he said.

Marsha smiled ruefully. She nodded. 

Jason nodded. "I'm glad that guy was there for you."

"Yeah, Matthew was a gentleman," she said. 

"Matthew?" he asked. 

"Mhm, that's what he said was his name," she said.

"Okay," he said. He wondered, maybe, maybe not. There were probably more than a hundred guys in Kingston and St. Andrew with the name Matthew. 

"Thank you for telling me," he said.

Marsha nodded. "Thank you for listening." She smiled at him

Jason squeezed her hand and smiled at her.

****

Sharon's cell phone rang. She rushed into the bedroom to answer. Carlos had gone to buy groceries. "Hello," she answered. 

"Hey Sharon. It's Paul," her boss greeted her.

"Hey Paul, how are you?" she replied.

"I'm good. I just wanted to give you the good news," Paul said. "Gary has confessed to being the mastermind behind the whole thing. Apparently your personal assistant and Gary were having an affair."

"What?" Sharon asked in shock. She sat on the bed. "Really. It seemed she was messing around with Cooper."

Paul sighed. "About that, it seems she was indeed sleeping with Michael. He was just a pawn. He'll be suspended for a month, and we'll be providing an assessment to make sure he's mentally capable of coming back to work for us. He's a brilliant kid I wouldn't want to let him go."

Sharon sighed. "But why? Why would Gary do this?" she asked.

"Greed. Just pure greed Sharon. That's all I got to say. And he thought he could get away with it. But I have better news than that," Paul said to her.

"Okay. What is it?" she asked curious.

"I want you to come back. I want you to be our financial controller. You have the skill for it. If you want, you can work towards the ACCA certification. I know you're pregnant but you don't have to worry about that. Tammy Ferguson will work with you making sure that everything will be in order. You know her, young and up and coming from the purchases department. Very sharp mind."

Sharon nodded at the phone. She knew Tammy but they hadn't really said two words to each other. She seemed like a pleasant young woman however. Sharon was willing to work with her.

"I will pay you more than what I've been paying Gary and will compensate you otherwise for the months you've been home," he told her. 

Sharon smiled happily. "Yes I accept. I would love to work with you again and thanks for the upgrade," she said chuckling.

Paul chuckled. "You are most welcome," he said. "See you Monday?"

Sharon nodded at the phone. "Yes, indeed you will," she said.

"Okay. Alrighty. Later," Paul said.

"Okay," she said smiling.

Paul ended their call. Sharon lay back on the bed and laughed softly. "Thank you God," she said.

****

Sunday

On Sunday morning, Jason took Carli to church and they both listened intently to the sermon shared from the pulpit. Afterwards, uncle Pat greeted them and smiled cheerfully at Carli. He was happy she had made the decision to be baptized. He introduced her to the elder who was responsible for evangelism activities at the church. There was an ongoing discipleship class taking place. Elder Pusey told her and Jason that she was just in time to enter the class. She had only missed one week of the teachings. She thanked him and beamed happily at Jason. Jason also mentioned that he and Carli were planning on getting married, to which he smiled broadly and asked if they had a date in mind.

Jason looked at Carli and smiled. "How about the 20th or 21st?" he asked her. 

She nodded. "I'd get married in a crocus bag if I could. I just want to be Mrs Singh," she said laughing softly.

Elder Pusey took out his phone and opened the calendar app. "We have nothing planned for either dates, so we can have the ceremony here. Our pastor is a marriage officer so he can officiate the service and offer pre-marriage counselling. You'd have to start the counselling by at least next week," he said.

Jason nodded. "I'm working in Montego Bay right now. I'll be back and forth, but if there is a way we can have the counselling sessions via the phone on some occasions I can work with it," he said.

Pusey nodded. "Understood. I'll tell Pastor Johnson and get back to you on what he says," Pusey replied.

"I can make the first session if he's available on Tuesday," Jason said.

Elder Pusey nodded. "Understood." He smiled at him. "So happy for you Jason. Glad to see Patrick's time and effort in you are not in vain," he said. His smile broadened. He touched his arm. Jason smiled back happily.

Pusey looked at Carli briefly. "Nice to meet you young lady."

Carli smiled up at him. "Thank you. You too," she said. 

Elder Pusey nodded. He smiled at uncle Pat, who nodded at him. Pusey left them.

****

The telephone rang. Carli ran to answer it. It was her aunt. Carli was ecstatic. She called for Jason. 

"Jason, baby!"

 He was relaxing, sitting at the dining table. He came quickly, his expression one of alarm. 

"It's aunty. She's on the phone!" she told him, her hand covering the phone receiver. 

She put her ear back to the phone. "Okay, aunty go ahead. Yes. Okay. Thank God! Okay, aunty see you soon." Carli hung up the phone. She looked at Jason who was wide eyed waiting for more information. 

"She just landed at the Norman Manley Airport. They were able to get clearance to land. She wants us to come get them, she and uncle! Oh thank God!" She lunged into Jason who hugged her tightly. 

"Okay, let me go fetch my car keys," he said as he released her.

She nodded. He went upstairs and took up his keys from the night table then skipped downstairs. He and Carli jumped into his vehicle and drove off to get aunt Sandra and uncle Marcus.

It was a twenty minute wait as aunt Sandra and uncle Marcus filed patiently through Customs. When they saw them, Carli ran to her aunt and uncle, and threw her arms around them. Marcus hugged her a while longer as Sandra stepped back and watched them. Jason came up and took the bags from her. She gave Jason a relieved and grateful smile. He led the way to the car. Sandra followed, while Marcus and Carli walked arm in arm. 

When they arrived home, they had to help Marcus out of the vehicle. Sitting on the plane and then in the car made his weary muscles ache. Jason made Marcus throw his arm over his shoulder. He used his legs to push himself upright and lift Marcus, and his back muscles and shoulders to support him as he walked with his uncle-in-law into the house, up the stairs to his and Sandra's bedroom. 

He helped him sit down on the bed. Marcus lay back on the bed and sighed. He closed his eyes. "Thank you Jason," he said smiling at the young man. 

"My wife has told me about you. It seems like she is just as smitten with you as my niece," he said chuckling. He coughed a little then cleared his throat. 

Jason smiled at him. He knew he was joking. "Is there anything I can help with?" he asked him.

Marcus opened his eyes and smiled at him. "Make sure you marry my niece as I've heard you've promised to," Marcus said.

Jason's smile broadened. "It will be my pleasure," he replied.

Just then, Sandra walked into the room with Carli behind her hovering at the doorway. Sandra smiled at Jason. "My niece has found a good husband. Jason, I really appreciate you. Lissa has told me how you've been cooking and taking care of both of them," she said as she sat on the bed beside her husband. Her eyes were watering. Marcus rubbed his wife's thigh. 

Jason nodded and smiled at her. "I made a promise. I would make sure I kept it," he said to her. 

Sandra looked passed Carli into the hallway. "Where is Lissa?" Sandra asked.

"She's been spending time with Derrick since you've been gone. She isn't handling what happened well," Carli said.

Marcus grimaced. "I see," he said. She was his baby. He would comfort her when she got home. Sandra sighed and said, "I'll call her."

Marcus rubbed on his wife's thigh. "Honey, I need to take a shower," he told her.

"Oh okay," she said eyeing him. She turned to Carli and Jason. Jason moved towards the door and touched Carli's hand. He motioned with his head for them to go outside and winked at her. Carli smiled and nodded. "Okay aunty and uncle, we're going," she said looking up at Jason.

Sandra nodded. "Okay. Thank you so much guys." She stood up, came to them and hugged them. They hugged her back then exited the room. Sandra closed the door behind them.

**** 

After Jason got her dad's phone number from Carli, he went into the kitchen garden and sat on the tree stump. He tried to steady his breathing by inhaling with his mouth open. He dialed Carlos James' number. The phone rang three times then the warm distinguished voice of Carlos came on the line. 

"Hi, Mr James. Good evening. Calling to let you know that aunt Sandra and uncle Marcus are back. We just went and picked them up from the Norman Manley Airport," Jason told Carlos.

Jason heard Carlos sighed. "Thank God. I'm not a praying man, but I have been praying, fi real," Carlos said chuckling. "Thanks for letting us know Jason. Very kind of you, but I suspect that is not the only reason you called. I know my sister-in-law and bro-in-law will want to recover from jetlag before they call us tomorrow."

Jason heard shuffling on the line. 

"Are you sitting Jason?" Carlos asked him. He sat down on his couch and got comfortable. He could tell Jason was nervous. He had a feeling he knew why he called him.

"Yes sir," Jason responded. 

"Okay. Good. Son, that's good. So what's on your mind?"

Jason cleared his throat. "Mr James, I really love your daughter. She's like the air I breathe. I don't think I can live without her now that she's in my life. She's like the compass that points me in the right direction. I'll do all I can to make her happy. I promise to take care of her for the rest of my life and keep her safe," Jason said quietly. He paused.

"And?" Carlos asked sounding amused.

"And I'm asking you for your daughter's hand in marriage, please," Jason answered.

Carlos sighed happily. "Carli is very young but she has chosen wisely. I believe you mean every word you've said. Okay. Yes, you have my blessing," Carlos said chuckling.

Jason felt like a weight was lifted from his shoulders. He smiled. "Thank you so much," he said relieved.

"How soon do you want to marry her?" Carlos asked.

"We're planning towards April," he told him.

"Okay. Understood. I would say that's a bit early. Has Carli agreed to that time?" he asked.

"Yes, she has," Jason replied. "We're thinking of the 20th or 21st."

Carlos sighed. "Okay. Understood." Clearly, his daughter was smitten with Jason. He wouldn't block them. Sharon on the other hand was another issue. "Okay, I'm gonna have to talk to her mother. She may not be too happy with such an early date.

Jason sighed. "I understand," he answered.

Carlos heard the sound and laughed softly. "Don't worry, I know how to deal with my wife. Just make your plans. Everything will be fine," Carlos told him.

"Thank you so much Mr James," said Jason happily. "I was also thinking of coming down there tomorrow to speak with you and Carli's mom face to face about the plans for the wedding."

"You can call me Carlos or dad if you like," Carlos said. 

Jason was very happy. "Yes, thank you. Will do," Jason said excited.

"Okay, you are welcome to come. You can make your case to Sharon directly."

Okay, I'll do that then. Thanks so much! We'll call before we leave for Manchester. Bye Mr ... uh ... er, Carlos

Carlos chuckled. "Okay Jason. No problem. Talk later."

Jason ended the call. He was ecstatic. He went inside to tell his beautiful bride-to-be the good news.

****

Monday

Jason slipped into Carli's bedroom. He took his phone and took several pictures of her while she slept. She looked so peaceful and beautiful. It was 5:30 in the morning. As he watched her sleeping, he was tempted to slip under the covers and snuggle with her. He bit his lip. No one made him feel like this, not even his ex. He tucked his phone in his shorts pocket. He had a surprise for Carli, something he hadn't done in a while. It would be his wedding gift to her. He hoped he still remembered how to do it well.

Coming to her softly, he quietly sat on the bed and stared at her. She would usually cover hair with a silk scarf but maybe she was too tired, she fell asleep before she could do that. Jason lay down beside her and gently caressed her arm. She stirred and sighed sleepily. "Sweet baby," he whispered. Carli opened her eyes and focused her gaze on him. As her brain woke up and she became aware that he was watching her, she smiled at him. 

Yawning softly, she moved closer to him. Jason opened his arms and embraced her: One arm rested protectively over her shoulder while she lay on top of the other. Jason bent forward and playfully rubbed his nose on hers. Carli giggled. Her beautiful, dark brown eyes were like deep, mysterious pools that pulled him in.

"I love you," he said with a sigh.

"I love you," she replied. 

"I want to talk to you about the wedding plans," he said, filling his eyes with her beautiful face. "I have put aside about $600,000. Omie was able to do the transfer for me while I was in Mobay in a savings account I hardly use. Fortunately, it wasn't yet dormant. I'm gonna give you the ATM card and the password so you can have access to the money. Use it to purchase a dress, and anything else you think you'll need for the wedding."

Carli's eyes lit up. She burrowed herself into the warmth of his chest. "Thank you baby. I will use it wisely, I promise. I don't know much about wedding planning. I'll ask Lissa and aunty to help me, and if mommy gives her blessing she can help me," she said happily. Jason knew her mother would be a challenge, but he never gave up on a challenge. One thing he could say he learned from his dad was to dig in his heels and stubbornly fight for what he wanted.

"Anything else you need means: decor, venue, music and catering. If you need more money just let me know and I'll get Omie to do the transfer for me. The internet where I am is erratic," he told her. Carli looked at him. She couldn't believe he was her man. She touched his face. "Baby, thank you. I love you. I can't wait to make your toes curl," she said winking at him.

Jason laughed softly. He reached down and cupped her bottom. He was surprised to feel soft, smooth butt cheeks. He rubbed her butt searching for soft fabric. Oh, thank God! He mused to himself. She was wearing panties, just a skimpier one. He slapped her butt gently and smiled at her. He blew her a kiss. Jason stretched and sat up. It was best he left her now before his mind wandered and he did something that would cause them both to moan. 

"Get ready by 7:00 okay?" We can eat breakfast and then head out to see your parents," he said.

Carli nodded. "Okay baby," she said.

He stood up, told her he loved her, and heard her reply with, "I love you too" then left the room.

****

Carli had showered, and was dressed and sitting downstairs by 6:30. Surprisingly, Lissa was preparing breakfast. Lissa was a good cook, but she rarely felt in the mood to prepare meals. Carli asked her if she wanted her help.  She told her no, but she could keep her company. 

Carli sat on a dining room chair and watched her cousin. She was cooking callaloo and saltfish with pressed green plantains. They chatted animatedly. She was glad to see Lissa back to her usual cheerful disposition. 

As they talked they heard footsteps coming the stairs and the sound of slippers heading in their direction. They looked over to the doorway to see Marcus entering the room. He smiled at the young women. He went over to his daughter and kissed her forehead, then he sat beside Carli and pinched her chin. Carli smiled at him. 

"What is happening? Lissa baby, how come you're cooking?" Marcus asked mischievously. 

Lissa made a face. "Y'all know I can cook. Go away," she responded.

Marcus laughed. Carli smiled. She felt warm all over. She always loved hearing her uncle's infectious laugh. 

Just then, Jason entered the kitchen making notes on his cell phone. He looked up and saw Lissa cooking, a smile curled up his lips. "Good morning," he told everyone in the room. He sat beside Carli and kissed her cheek. She blushed. Marcus saw the interaction between them and smiled. 

"So Lissa what's for breakfast?" Jason asked her.

"Pressed green plantains and steamed callaloo with saltfish in it," she said proudly.

"Sounds good. I'm sure it will be delicious," he said smiling at her.

Lissa beamed. "Thank you Jason. It will." she looked at Carli and her dad triumphantly.

Marcus chuckled. He looked over at Carli and Jason. "You guys going somewhere?" he asked.

Jason nodded. "We're going to see Carli's parents and if there's enough time we'll swing by my mom's," Jason said. He turned to Carli. "I forgot to mention, my mom has been asking for you so I thought why not stop by. By the time we get back she should be home from work."

Carli nodded. "That's fine," she said. She was fond of Momma Bridget too. She was looking forward to seeing her.

After five more minutes, Lissa began sharing the food for her family. Jason went into the fridge and took out a newly bought bottle of orange juice. He had gone to the store nearby and picked up a few things for the family. He went into the cupboard and retrieved four glasses, rinsed them at the sink and dried them carefully. He opened the cap of the bottle and poured the golden liquid in each glass. He handed one glass to Marcus first. He placed Lissa's glass of orange juice on the counter for her to pick it up when she was ready, but brought two glasses to the dining table for himself and Carli. 

Marcus observed how the young man moved. He liked him. He also realized that for the past few days he was buying groceries for the family with his own money and made no demands to be paid back. He was impressed. 

Sandra walked into the room in her work attire; looking sharp. She looked at her husband, smiled and winked at him. Last night was the first time they made love. He wasn't able to love her as vigorously as he wanted to, but he was very attentive and she didn't mind taking the lead for a while. 

She went to him and kissed his lips tenderly. Marcus' hand snaked up and squeezed her derriere. Carli and Jason saw the move and looked at each other knowingly. Jason winked at her. Carli giggled softly. She took her plate of food from Lissa then smiled cheekily at her lover. Jason winked at her and smiled. 

While the family was eating, Marcus described his experience in Thailand:  "I enjoyed the natural beauty of the countryside. I even got the chance to tour some of the older temples. They have a rich history." He sighed as he remembered his plight in the foreign country. "My problem started because of a case of mistaken identity. Apparently, there was a man with my name, similar spelling, claiming to be a historian and archaeologist, who was offering his services freelance to help governments unearth or dig up artifacts, and ensure they are preserved and displayed in museums for knowledge purposes. 

"Unfortunately when I went to one of the ancient sites a guide there saw my name and thought I was him. This other Marcus Dixon had gone to the site two weeks prior and stolen something there. So when they saw my name the guide alerted the police and they detained me. I was able to get a phone call so I called my company to explain the situation." 

He turned to his wife. "Baby that's why I couldn't call you," he told her reaching out his hand for hers. She clasped his hand and rested it on her cheek. He continued: "I wasn't able to make anymore phone calls, but my company was able to get an advocate over there for me to negotiate with the government to release me. At first they didn't want to let me go but when I fell ill they decided they didn't want me as a problem to them. That's how I ended up in Singapore. The advocate managed to make arrangements for me to go over there to get treatment," he told his family. 

He said, "Baby, I'm sorry I didn't allow my company to tell you what was happening. I didn't want you to be fretting over me. I love you."

Sandra felt her eyes watering. She didn't want to ruin her makeup. Lissa realizing what was happening tore off a small piece of paper towel and handed it to her mother. Sandra took it from her and dabbed her eyes carefully with it. "Do we owe them any money? The hospital?" she asked. She started eating her breakfast. It was delicious. She smiled at her daughter, winked and nodded. Lissa smiled broadly.

"No, the advocate said it was fine. He would take care of it. I don't know what he did, but he told me I don't owe anything," he answered.

"Maybe he paid it for you," Carli chimed in.

Marcus nodded. "Maybe. Anyhoo, I told him if ever he comes to our neck of the woods I will be a more than willing tour guide."

"Did he accept?" Lissa asked coming to sit at the table and eat. Marcus nodded. "Yes, he's a lawyer like myself so his schedule is busy, but he was happy for the invitation. He said he would let me know by the summer, if he, his wife and sons can come over."

Jason saw the look on Carli's face. He leaned over and circled his arm around her to comfort her. Carli looked at him. She leaned towards him and closed her eyes.

Marcus, seeing what was happening, tried to lighten the mood. "I went to this restaurant and tried several different dishes. I also tasted Thai beer called sato. I actually like the flavor," Marcus said chuckling. Jason smiled at him as he gently stroked Carli's arm.

After they ate breakfast, Carli and Jason told their family they would see them later tonight and headed out the door. Jason called Carlos: "Hello. We're heading out now. Mhm, yes, see you then," he said ending the call. Meanwhile, Carli had gone to open the gate. Jason opened Carli's car door for her then slipped inside and started the engine. He looked at her and blew her a kiss. Carli giggled and touched his thigh. They drove out. Carli walked back to close the gate. She reentered the car and they drove off.

****

Sharon was annoyed with Carlos. He had called Paul and told him that she wasn't coming in to work until the next day. She didn't want to seem like the new position didn't matter to her. When she asked him for an explanation he would only say be patient, she would soon find out. She heard him on the phone talking to someone. She was curious about who it was. She asked, but all he did was kiss her forehead, slapped her butt and asked what she was cooking for dinner.

At around 11 o'clock her cellphone rang. She answered and was surprised to hear Carli's voice on the line. She was laying in bed.

"Baby ... Hey! You okay?" Sharon greeted her daughter.

She heard Carli chuckle. "Yes mommy, I'm just fine. How are you?" Carli asked.

Sharon sat up. She wondered if something had happened between her and Jason. "You sure you're good baby? Is everything okay with you and Jason?" she queried.

Carli laughed softly. "Yes mommy," she said, "Me and Jason are fine."

"As a matter of fact, there's something about Jason I want to talk to you about," Carli said being mysterious.

"Okay, sure. Go ahead," she told her. 

Just then she heard a knock at the front door. She called for Carlos to tell him to get the door, but he didn't respond. She wondered if he had stepped out and not let her know. Feeling even more annoyed at him she went through the hallway to the front door. She turned the knob and opened it. She was shocked to see Carli and Jason standing in front of her. She screamed happily and hugged her daughter. She also briefly hugged Jason. That stunned him, but he accepted the gesture. She stepped back so they could step inside the home. 

Jason looked around. Everything was immaculate and neat. He was impressed. She led them to the couch. Carlos came forward from the kitchen with a tray filled with sandwiches. There were chicken, cheese, corned beef and tuna sandwiches nicely presented. Jason took two of the tuna sandwiches as starters. He bit into them. He nodded his head and smiled. 

"Good?" Carlos asked.

Jason smiled. He chewed and swallowed. "Nice!" he responded giving him a thumbs up. Carlos' smile broadened. Sharon looked at her husband. "So this was the reason I couldn't go to work today, eh?" she asked her husband.

Carlos chuckled softly. "I didn't want to ruin the surprise," he said winking at her.

They sat back in the couch chatting for a little while. Jason told his future in laws about his plans with his dad's company. Carlos listened intently. He was willing to invest in the company if Jason's dad was open to it. He watched amused as Jason downed six sandwiches by himself. Carli had only eaten three. He couldn't say much himself because he had consumed five. Sharon could only manage to eat one and a half. She was in the phase of her pregnancy where smells or tastes made her feel ill. Carlos ate the half for her.

Carlos saw that his wife was in a good mood. While she was laughing and talking with Carli, Carlos looked directly at Jason and nodded. He mouthed the word, "Now." Jason nodded. He cleared his throat and said, "Mrs James, there's something we want to talk to you about."

Sharon smiled at him and said, "I figured there was. You wouldn't waste gas to come all this way for nothing."

"Well, if Carli wanted to come see you I would do my best to get her to you guys. So being here is a blessing, but also I do want to talk to you about something important," Jason said trying to keep calm.

Carlos came closer to his wife and placed her hand in his arm. She looked up at him puzzled. He smiled back at her. Seeing what his future dad-in-law did he mustered the confidence. He looked at Carli who smiled at him. He took a deep breath and released it. "Mrs James, I love your daughter very much. She means the world to me. Also, thank you guys for allowing Carli to come down and spend time with me. No, we did not do anything, and haven't done anything." 

He paused and looked at Carli's parents individually. He saw Carlos nodding, giving him encouragement. "Glad to hear it," Sharon said smiling at her daughter. Carli smiled at her, thinking how just a few days ago she would have been riding him if she wasn't trying hard to be a good girl. Carli reached for Jason's hand, clasped it in hers and squeezed it. He looked at her and saw how her eyes shone for him. He smiled tenderly at her and turned to her parents again.

"I love your daughter. I want her to be my wife. I'm here asking for your blessing to be her husband," he told them, but he looked at Sharon directly.

Sharon nodded. She sobered. "What do you have to offer my daughter?" she asked him. 

"My love and affection; my loyalty. All my assets that I have now and any we acquire in the future. My strength to protect her from any harm. I'm willing to die for her if necessary," he answered. Carli squeezed his hand harder. He squeezed back. Sharon looked at their interaction and nodded. 

"Okay," she said, but she didn't smile. She looked at her daughter. "And you want this? You want to be his wife?" she asked her.

Carli nodded. "I love him with all my heart. Matter of fact, when he's away, I feel like I can't breathe," she replied. Sharon's eyes widened. "And what about school?"

Carli licked her dry lips. "I've decided to take a different path," she said.

"How so?" Sharon asked.

"Mommy, I love you. I love you and daddy, but what your plans are for me aren't what I want for myself. I've always wanted to be a chef either pastry or fine dining. I love cooking and I love baking. I can't deny that part of who I am anymore. I won't be going back, I'll be enrolling in a culinary school in September. I've already reached out to one that is ready to interview me for their enrollment process. I've called my university's Admissions office and made them aware that I won't be continuing with the program. I also contacted my faculty and have made them aware of my decision." 

She looked lovingly at Jason. "Jason is the love of my life, just like daddy is the love of your life. He makes me happy. And I want to share my life with him as his wife. I also want to pursue the thing that has made me fulfilled and has challenged me. Mommy, you have taught me so much, please allow me to use the tools you've given me to be a woman." Her eyes pleaded with her mother. 

Sharon closed her eyes and sighed. Carlos rubbed her hand. Sharon opened her eyes and looked at him. "Were you aware of this?" she asked him. He too was surprised, but Carli was an adult now and needed to make her own decisions.

"About seeking approval to marry Carli, yes. Carli dropping out of university, no," he said plainly watching her expression. 

Jason felt his heart pounding. Sharon looked at him. "Don't ever make me regret this," she said. "Yes, okay. You have my blessing. I like you Jason. I think Carli chose wisely. I wouldn't want her to marry so young but Carlos and I were barely older when we tied the knot. You have my blessing to go ahead and make your plans." She smiled at them both. "As for higher education, you decide Carli. It's up to you, your choice. We may not be able to fully support you financially." 

"I can," Jason chimed in. "I have the funds to start her off and I'll work hard to make sure she's taken care of where that is concerned and in other areas."

Sharon nodded and smiled. "Okay," she said. "Glad to hear it. Then go ahead and do what you guys have to do then," she said smiling at her daughter.

Carli jumped up and went to hug her mother. Sharon hugged her and kissed her baby on the cheek. Jason stood up, leaned forward to extend his hand to her for a handshake. Sharon stood up and gave him a proper hug. Jason smiled happily. 

Later, while the men went off to one side chatting about the business Jason's dad built, Carli and Sharon started discussing plans for the wedding.

At 4:00 p.m. Sharon gave them some supper before they left to go back to Kingston. The four of them sat chatting happily. Sharon decided to sit beside Jason so she could talk to him more and learn more about him. As they stood by the door about to say goodbye she squeezed his hand and placed something in it. He was puzzled, but she asked him for his cell phone number, and told him not to open his hand until he was in the car. 

He hugged them both briefly and went and sat in the car while Carli said her goodbyes. He opened his hand to see a piece of paper with numbers written on it. Carli came back to the car. He open it for her and she slipped inside. They waved to them and drove off. After a few minutes had passed Jason heard a text come in. He would check it at a stop light. When they entered Mandeville's town centre, they stopped at a red light. Jason fished in his pocket for his phone. He opened his messages and was shocked to see Sharon's message. It said:

"This is my gift to you," Sharon said. "The numbers represent a bank account of an insurance policy I have been saving for Carli since she was five years old. She is the sole beneficiary. I am trusting you with this to make sure she is provided for. After you're married, you and I can go have your name added, so you can also manage the money on her behalf. I love my daughter and if you take care of her, you can call me mom. 😊 P.S. don't tell her until after the wedding."

Carli watched him curiously. "You okay?" she asked him.

Jason nodded. He let out a breath. "Yes baby. I'm very good." He was happy to have Sharon's blessing.

They briefly stopped by Jason's mom's place. Carli received a big hug from Momma Bridget. Carli reciprocated. She had grown to be fond of Jason's mom too. They sat down and told her about their wedding plans. She offered to help cater part of the food. She could do her jerk chicken and festival if they wanted. Jason looked at Carli. She turned to Momma Bridget and said, "Yes to the jerk chicken, not sure about the festival, maybe rice?"

Momma Bridget nodded. "Okay, we can correspond about the food. That way you guys can save on catering." 

Carli nodded. "Alright, sounds good." She beamed happily at her beloved. He playfully squeezed her side. Carli gave Momma Bridget her phone number. 

On the way back home, Jason stopped at a supermarket and allowed Carli to purchase a few snacks for herself, sanitary pads and other toiletries. He told her that it was now his responsibility to provide those things for her. She kissed him tenderly and told him she was blessed to have him.

When they arrived at their aunt and uncle's house, the elders had already gone to bed, but Lissa was up watching TV. When they entered the living room, she looked up and smiled at them. "How did it go?" she asked them. Jason chuckled. He touched the piece of paper in his pocket. Carli smiled at her. "Pretty well. I think being pregnant has made mommy softer," Carli said laughing softly. Carli sat beside Lissa and looked at her cheekily, "Were you waiting up for us?"

Lissa chuckled and said," Yes, I wanted to hear what happened. Although mommy said aunt would have said yes. She said aunt Sharon loves you and she would rather lose you than hurt you. Not sure what that means."

Carli thought about what her cousin said. She wasn't sure about that statement either, but Jason understood. Sharon was a hard parent but not a cruel one, if she saw that Carli was set on doing something, she would allow her to do it rather than stifle her, and hurt her in the process of trying to protect her. He pulled Carli into his arms. Lissa pursed her lips and smiled up at them. Jason kissed Carli softly then told her good night. He nodded to Lissa who smiled at him. He went up the stairs carrying Carli's bags filled with treats for her and necessities.

Carli decided to hang out with Lissa a bit longer. She told her cousin about the wedding ideas she had. Lissa asked her what her favorite colors were. She told her lavender and pink. Lissa chuckled. "Tell you what, I'll volunteer to be your wedding planner. Pink and lavender aren't colors that usually go together, but I think I can figure out how to work with them. We'll just add in secondary colors to complement everything."

Carli locked her arm into her cousin's arm as they chatted on Carli's favorite couch. 

****

Three weeks later ... 

Marriage counseling was progressing well. Jason was able to meet for the first session, but afterwards he joined Carli and Pastor Johnson online via video calling. He managed to go back and forth from Mobay to Kingston to attend his lectures and tutorial sessions, but in between he barely had time to meet Carli face to face. He told her things would slow down after the hectic college assignments period passed. They texted and called each other regularly. 

Meanwhile, Carli was working at a restaurant at the Norman Manley International Airport. Jason had asked Aisha to see if she could help her out. Aisha put in a good word for Carli to her boss. She entered the business as a scullion and Prep Cook. Then they upgraded her to Prep Cook at the position of Cook 1. The boss was impressed with her work ethic and prior knowledge of the dishes she prepared. She was also a fast learner, learning their menu quickly.

She would mostly help prep ingredients as well as help with baking and cooking simple dishes. She was learning so much. It was hard work, but she was happy. She was waiting to hear from the culinary school to see if she would get in. The Admissions Counsellor told her she would love for the school to let her in. She was impressed with the portfolio Carli had sent to her. She would let her know in a few weeks. She however told her to send her application through the normal channels and hope for the best.

After she got off work she called her baby and chatted with him for a few minutes. He was hundreds of miles away, but he was studying for his exams in Kingston. She blew cute kisses through the phone and he responded in kind. Aisha came outside just as Omie pulled up to take them home. They were chatting in the car. She listened to them but couldn't concentrate on what they were saying. Besides work, Jason consumed her thoughts. 

She was visiting Jason's church every Sunday and uncle Plat was always kind to her. But inside, she felt hollow. She wondered if Jason felt this way about her.  She felt like a piece of her heart was gone. Maybe it was. She missed him so much. 

Omie dropped her off and she waved goodbye. Another day, she mused. She entered the house and tiredly climbed upstairs. She entered the guest room. She had moved into it because Brandon was scheduled to be back in a week's time. He would stay for a few months then go back to England again. She stripped naked and stepped into the shower to bathe herself. She was tired. She thought of Jason. She longed for his touch. She wished he could come, hold her tight and make sweet love to her.

March 

 Carli and Sandra found a small bridal shop that provided a beautiful wedding dress. The lines and design were simple, but Carli's beauty was what needed to shine through and it did. Meanwhile, Lissa found a caterer who could provide chicken pasta dishes at a reasonable price. Sandra met with Momma Bridget to discuss how the jerk chicken meals would be prepared, how they would get to the venue and how many pounds of chicken they needed. 

Carli had narrowed the list of guests to fifty people. She had to have Matthew as a guest, but didn't invite his parents. When she had called and told him she was getting married, he sounded stunned but he congratulated her. Jason invited Marsha and her family. She had no arguments to that. He had also told her about his cousin Tina and his uncle Eugene. His dad had to be there and his siblings on both sides. He also told Bello to bring Antonia. 

He knew about two other siblings from another woman, but she wanted nothing to do with him or Bello. He wasn't okay with it. Hopefully, when her children were old enough they would want to know them. Carli invited Simone and Nichelee. Nichelee declined saying she was going to be abroad during that period, but Simone agreed to be there. She also invited Shauna who happily accepted the invitation. They chose the 21st of April as the date for the wedding. 

Carli would be baptized later this month on the 20th. She was excited. Unfortunately, Jason couldn't make it, but he asked Omie to attend on his behalf, take pictures and send them to him. 

The project was nearing its end. They had moved on from the first apartment and were now working on the fifth one. Fortunately, the other four apartments didn't need the level of attention the first one needed. Jason was grateful for that. He longed to be back with his baby.

April 

Jason had been working on his gift for Carli. It was a painting of her in a whimsical pose. The image he painted of her looked ethereal. He tried to capture how he saw her and hoped she would like it. He used oil paint and a special kind of canvas. It was very expensive but she was worth every penny he spent. He was putting on the finishing touches, when he heard the phone ring. It was Carli. He answered by blowing kisses. Carli giggled and blew kisses at him too. Bello had given him the day off to study. He did a little of that, but he wanted his gift for Carli to be finished that night. 

"Everything is pretty much ready baby," she told him. 

"Okay," he answered while lightly brushing blush green paint on the periphery of her image. He wanted to create the effect of an aura around her. 

"Looking forward to seeing you my sweet baby," he said.

"There's just one more thing I need to do and I'll be ready," she told him.

"Oh, and what's that?" he asked curious. 

"You'll find out," she teased him.

Okay baby. I gotta go though, okay. Sweet baby, I'll dream of you," he said.

"Love you baby," she replied.

"I love you."

****

Jason went back and forth between Kingston and Montego Bay to do his exams. He was working late in the nights and early in the mornings to make sure he honored his agreement with his dad. Somehow he managed to get at least four hours of sleep each night. He was exhausted and felt like he was losing his mind. He missed Carli so much. She was his soft place. He felt like he was going to crash and burn soon. Bello, seeing what was happening, pulled him aside one morning while they were at the site and spoke with him.

"Jasey, I'm glad to have you as my son. You have been working really hard. Your contribution to the job has been tremendous and I wanna say thank you. I want you to be careful though, I wouldn't want you to be burned out before your wedding night and not be able to perform," Bello said chuckling. 

Jason shook his head and laughed softly. Old coot! Jason thought affectionately.

"You never told me what type of cancer you have," Jason said while listening to him.

"Prostate cancer," Bello said smiling ruefully.

"Are you good? I haven't seen you going to any doctor or anything? Jason asked concerned.

"I will as soon as this project is over. I will go. Don't worry about me," Bello said smiling at him.

"I kinda do," Jason said. "You're terrible at taking care of yourself," Jason said chuckling.

Bello smiled. "Okay. That might be true, but I want to be around to see my grand kids, so I am not going anywhere," he said. Jason was touched by his words. He became silent. Bello leaned forward and slapped his son on his shoulder.  "Take the rest of the day off. Go home and sleep. Okay?"

Jason nodded. "Okay," he said. Jason drove back to Dwight's place. Khemar had gotten a job at a call centre and was going through training. Dwight was at work. Jason was the only one home. He started working on putting the final touches on the painting of Carli. After he was done he took a shower and went to bed.

April 16 

His final exam was on the 13th. Jason was relieved it was over.  He had called Carli friends to invite them to attend a surprise engagement party for her. He even called Matthew. Carli had exchanged phone numbers of her family and friends with him to make the arrangements flow smoothly. Matthew told him he appreciated the invite but he had to work, but would make it for the wedding. Jason said he understood. The others also declined citing previous engagements. It would just be immediate family then Jason thought. He was cool with that. 

He drove by his house first and dropped off his bags and the painting he had completed for Carli's wedding gift. He looked at the sculpture Carli bought for him. He had placed it on the small table near his bed. He was excited to see her. The painting was secured in its wrapping. He perched it carefully on the top of his fridge. When they were married he would have it mounted on the wall, but for now, he just wanted it to be in a safe place. Quickly, he freshened up, putting on Carli's favorite cologne, and headed over to aunt Sandra's.

He showed up at aunt Sandra's house and knocked on the gate. Lissa was home so she let him in and walked him back to the front door. She told him that Carli should be home from work any minute now. He nodded. Twenty minutes later Carli stepped in. She called out to Lissa, but Jason told Lissa not to answer. 

Feeling puzzled, Carli walked into the living room searching for her cousin and found Jason sitting on her favorite couch looking at her. She dropped her work bag and ran to him. She jumped on him as he stood up to greet her. He crushed his lips to hers and kissed her passionately. When he released her, Lissa entered the room and started laughing. They looked around at her and laughed as well. 

"I'm back baby. I'll be here from now on. There are finishing touches, but my dad says he doesn't need me for those," he said looking into her eyes.

"You sure?" she asked him. She didn't want to be away from him that long ever again.

He nodded. "Yes sweet baby. Positive." Carli hungrily kissed him again. Jason closed his eyes and kissed her fervently.

"I'm just gonna go over here," Lissa said amused. She stepped into the kitchen.

"I've come to take you out," he said. "So go take a shower and get ready. Wear something a little fancy, okay?"

Carli nodded. "Okay," she said. She sought to place her feet on the ground and he released her. She took up her work bag from the floor and went upstairs to get ready. 

Jason walked into the kitchen. "Is everyone ready?" he asked Lissa. 

Lissa smiled cheekily. "Yup. Her parents are staying at a friend's until later when you give the signal you want them to come to the restaurant. I already made arrangements with the restaurant. They know what's up. You have the ring?" she asked excitedly.

He slipped his hand into his pocket and took out the small box. He opened it and showed her. She whistled in appreciation. "Let it not be said you have no taste," she said smiling broadly at him. Jason laughed and shook his head. He was glad he and Lissa were getting along now. She was a cool person.

After fifteen minutes, Carli walked down stairs. She allowed her hair to fall loosely on her shoulders. She parted her hair to the right and teased the curls up so they were luscious looking. She put on a little eye shadow. She was wearing a black dress he hadn't seen before. He was smitten. It was like he was seeing her for the first time. He took her hand as she stood before him, he kissed it and smiled at her. "You are so beautiful," he told her.

Carli blushed. "Thank you," she said.

He pulled her closer and smelled the lavender oil. He smiled at her. Absolutely stunning!   He thought. She had done another retouch since the last time he saw her. Her beautiful hair was resting in the middle of her back. He walked her to the car and opened her door for her. Lissa came and opened the gate for them. Jason slipped into the vehicle and they drove off.

They were having a wonderful time. Jason told her an excuse and slipped into a corner of the restaurant and called her parents and told them they could come by. He also called aunt Sandra who said she had just arrived home with Marcus and they would swing by with Lissa in tow. 

When he returned to the table, Carli got up and went to the restroom. When she returned a glass filled with ice cream and jello was in front of her chair. Jason had given the waiter the ring to tuck it into her dessert for him. When he returned with the glasses he assured Jason that it was in her dessert. He told him thanks.

Carli eyed the dessert happily. As she dug in she noticed that Jason was barely eating his and was watching her closely. She was curious about why but figured it was because he had missed her. As she dug further into the dessert her spoon hit on something metallic. 

She used the spoon to scoop it up and looked at it. Jason watched her. She took her napkin and wiped away the ice cream. She was surprised. She screamed when she realized what it was. Carli laughed happily. Jason moved away from his chair and bent down on one knee before her. In front of all these strangers he would declare his love for her. 

He took her hand. "Carli baby," he said. "I love you. There's no one else in this world who loves me like you do. Your love has healed me in so many ways. I am so in love with you. We've been planning our big day together. It's only fitting I give you this moment. Carli, will you marry me?"

"Of course!" she said, throwing her arms around him. Jason hugged her. He took the ring from her and put it on the ring finger of her left hand. The restaurant patrons and staff clapped happily for them. Just then, Carli's mom and dad walked in. They were watching from the outside waiting to see if he had already proposed. They were glad they didn't miss the moment. 

Carli started crying when she saw her parents. They hugged her. Sharon used her fingers to dry her daughter's tears. "Don't ruin your make up baby," she told her laughing. She was so happy for her.  Ten minutes later aunt Sandra, uncle Marcus and Lissa walked in. Jason invited them to stay for dinner. He was paying. They agreed. The wait staff agreed to join several tables to there's so they could all sit together. Lissa deliberately sat beside her cousin. Although Jason and Carli had already eaten they stayed and talked with them while they ate. 

Lissa nudged Carli in her side. "You ready for that appointment?" 

Carli smiled nervously and said, "No. God, help me. Will it hurt?" she asked her. 
Lissa chuckled. "The person I went to was very efficient and thorough. She was good. I'm taking you to her. You should be okay. There will be discomfort but you'll be fine."

Carli sighed and said, "I hope so." She chuckled.

Lissa giggled. 

**** 

April 21 

Lissa was able to locate a makeup artiste to do Carli's makeup. She also made arrangements to pick up Carli's hairdresser, Andrea to come by the house to do her hair. Carli was filled with nervy excitement. She wanted the day to be over so she could be alone with the love of her life. They would stay for one night at a hotel that Aisha insisted they go to and then go to Ocho Rios and spend a week at uncle Pat's villa/condo.  

Fortunately for Carli, Aisha was able to convince the boss to give her time-off that coincided with the Easter weekend, so she was able to get a full week. She was grateful for the young woman's friendship. 

After Andrea did her hair, the makeup artiste applied her makeup. Sharon instructed her to make sure it was light and it didn't hide but accentuate her daughter's natural beauty. Sandra, Sharon and Lissa helped Carli into her wedding dress. It was a beautiful satin dress with an A-line skirt. It had a sweetheart neckline with illusion mesh that covered her shoulders tastefully. Carlos would be her chariot whisking her over to the church for the ceremony.

When she stepped downstairs. The men: Omie, Carlos and Marcus stood watching her in awe. Omie had come over to hand Carli a note from Jason. The women made him swear not to describe to Jason what she looked like. He promised feeling dumbfounded. He wondered what Aisha would look like in a wedding dress. He was even more determined to propose to her soon. He handed the note to Carli and stepped back. He grinned at all who were in the room, turned and slipped through the front door. As he stepped out, Brandon stepped in. He was carrying three bags and looked slightly disheveled. Everyone looked at him. "Sorry guys I took the Red Eye. I'm sorry I couldn't be here sooner, but I made it for the wedding." 

Lissa said, "Uhm!"

Brandon dropped his bags and went and hugged his big sis. "Thanks for calling and cussing me out Lissa," he said. Lissa hugged him back. "You smell of alcohol," Lissa said in a disapproving voice.

Brandon chuckled and said, "I promise, I'm not drunk." 

He went over and hugged his dad, his mom then his aunt and uncle, then finally he embraced his little cousin. He put her away from him a little and gazed at her up and down. "My! You have grown up to be beautiful," he told her. Carli smiled at him. He gave her another hug, then went to retrieve his bags. 

"I'm gonna freshen up. Who can give me a ride over to the ceremony?" Brandon asked.

"I'll stay back and wait for him," Marcus said.

"Thanks dad," Brandon said smiling. "Okay, gonna get ready. I have a nice suit for the occasion." He pulled his bags quickly up the stairs. Sharon came forward and touched Carli's arm. "Okay baby, we need to go now. It's 2:00 you're supposed to be there by 2:30, let's go," she said.

Carli nodded and smiled at her.

Lissa and Sharon helped Carli into Carlos' vehicle. While they were driving Carli opened the piece of paper and read Jason's note to her:

"My beautiful, sweet bride, my wifey. I love you with all of me. Thank you for taking this journey with me. Can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. - From your loving husband, Jason Singh." 

Carli fanned herself trying not to cry. Sharon saw what was happening. She was sneakily reading the note with Carli. She circled her arm around her daughter's shoulders. Carli looked at her mom and leaned on her. Sharon squeezed her close.

Sandra stayed behind and paid Andrea and Shelly, the make up artiste, for their services. When they left she too jumped into her vehicle and headed to the church. Marcus had to wait a half hour for Brandon to get ready, but when he saw him, he was impressed. 
"Nice suit," he told him as they walked towards his car. Brandon nodded. He looked at his dad from hair to shiny, polished shoes. 

"I learned from the best," he quipped. Marcus laughed and slapped his son on the back. Brandon opened the gate and made sure Marcus backed out the vehicle safely. Then he closed it and jumped into the Honda CR-V truck with his dad. They were late. Marcus floored the gas pedal.

****

Jason stood nervously at the altar waiting on his bride to be. It was 2:45. Where was she and her family? Omie told him she looked stunning but said he was sworn to secrecy and was warned not to describe her dress. He was eager to see her. 

Just then, an usher assigned by the church to help with the ceremony, came in and whispered to the pastor that Carli had just arrived. He overheard them speaking and smiled feeling relieved. Pastor Johnson smiled at him. "Your bride is here," he said to Jason. Jason nodded. 

When the Wedding March song was being played by the church pianist, Mrs Lovelace, Jason faced the back of the church and waited to see his bride coming down the aisle. Carli appeared wearing a beautiful veil and was being escorted down the aisle by her dad. She was wearing a beautiful satin dress. It hugged her waist but flared off at her hips. There were no intricate designs on the fabric, but the simple elegance of the dress took his breath away. 

In her hand was a bouquet with yellow, lavender, pink and white flowers. She was so beautiful. He couldn't see her face, but he knew she must look gorgeous. He spotted Sandra and Sharon sitting together looking proud of themselves. He was glad everything was okay between them. Marcus and a young man he assumed was Brandon walked in a few minutes after and sat beside them. 

As Carli walked up the aisle Shauna called to her. When she stopped, Shauna stood up and hugged her. She told her she couldn't stay for the reception but wanted to be there for her special day. Carli hugged her and told her 'thank you'. Carli looked at her dad, nodded at him and they proceeded to continue walking up the aisle.

Lissa was holding the small train that flowed behind her cousin. She looked lovely as well. He had to admit all the women of Carli's family were stunning, but Carli was his special gem.

Carlos and Carli stepped up to meet Jason, the pastor and Omie, who was Jason's best man. Lissa was her maid of honor. Carli decided she did not need brides maids. She just wanted things to be uncomplicated. Lissa stood beside Carli, just as Omie stood beside his best friend. 

The wedding officer, Pastor Miguel Johnson, greeted the congregation. He read 1st Corinthians 13 and gave a brief exhortation on love and sacrifice. Jason was anxious to remove the veil from Carli's face. He could barely tell that she was smiling at him. 

Pastor Johnson looked at Jason and said, "Time for the rings." 

Jason looked at Omie, who took the ring boxes from his pocket and gave them to Jason. The pastor reached out his hand for them, took the rings from Jason and placed them in the middle of his opened Bible. He prayed solemnly over them, speaking of a cord not being broken. 

The pastor then motioned for Carli to take Jason's band in her hand and place it at the tip of his finger. 

He began reading the vows and asked the bride and groom to respond:

"Do you Carlethia Dionne James take Jason Belvedere Singh to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others as long as you both shall live? Do you promise to honor and cherish him always as your husband? Say 'I will' if you agree," he said.

"I will," Carli said happily. She pushed the ring on Jason's finger, laughing softly.

He motioned for Jason to retrieve Carli's ring. The engagement ring was now complete with an additional beautiful gold band with Zirconia stones set in the middle. Jason placed the ring set at the tip of her finger.

Pastor Johnson spoke to Jason: Jason Belvedere Singh, do you take Carlethia Dionne James to be your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others as long as you both shall live? Do you promise to protect, honor and cherish her always as your wife? Say 'I will' if you agree," he instructed. Jason smiled and said, "I will, most definitely will," Jason pushed the ring onto her finger and smiled.

Pastor Johnson chuckled. "By the power invested in me by the Almighty God, and as a licensed marriage officer registered with the Jamaican government, I now pronounce you, husband and wife. You may now kiss your bride."

Jason lifted the veil and looked at Carli. She was wearing makeup but it was barely noticeable. The makeup accentuated the beautiful oval shape of her eyes and made them look even more mysterious. He stepped closer to her and put his arms around her. 

He leaned forward, bent his head and closed his eyes as his lips touched hers. Carli's lips felt soft and inviting. She was only wearing lips gloss. He tasted bubble gum flavor on her lips. He opened his eyes and looked at her. She smiled at him. Her eyes seemed to be teasing him. Jason grabbed her again and this time he kissed her passionately. 

They heard cheers and applause coming from the pews. Jason released his bride and looked at her. His eyes told her that he was ready to give her everything that night. She smiled at him and winked. 

After they had signed the necessary papers to record their marriage as legal. Carli and Jason were whisked away to the wedding reception at a nearby hotel. Everything was arranged by uncle Pat who used his connections to get the hotel booked at a reasonable price then offered to pay for the accommodation. The newly weds had accepted his gesture. 

The food and decor were wonderful. Carli enjoyed the jerk chicken provided by her mother-in-law. She would have to get the recipe from her. Lissa found a caterer who did a wedding cake at the base and red velvet cakes as the three top tiers of the cake.

Carli and her dad danced first then Jason danced with his bride. Afterwards, Matthew walked up to them and asked if he could dance with Carli. Jason stepped back and allowed him to. Matthew danced with Carli but in a respectful way: their bodies not touching. 

"Thanks for inviting me Red. I am so happy for you," he said. He danced with her slowly. He stopped then gave her a hug. He pinched her chin and walked over to Jason. He extended his hand to him. Jason took his hand and shook it smiling. 

"Congrats sir," Matt said. 

Jason nodded and said, "Thank you." 

Just then, Jason heard a familiar voice behind them. "May I have this dance?"

Jason looked behind Matthew. Matthew turned around to see Marsha standing behind them in a royal blue close fitting dress. She was wearing a little makeup, not much though. Jason cleared his throat to respond, but then realized she was staring at Matthew. He decided to observe. Matthew smiled broadly at her. He turned away from Jason to face Marsha fully. 

"Hey," he said smiling at her. "Marsha?"

Marsha nodded. "Nice to see you again, Matthew?"

Matthew nodded. "You can call me Matt." He extended his hand. Marsha shook it, smiling at him. 

"So about that dance?" she asked. Matthew smiled back at her. "Sure," he said.

He took Marsha's hand and led her to the dance floor. 

Carli came over to her husband and hugged him. She looked over at her friend Matt and Marsha dancing close together. "I think we've been cast aside," she said jokingly. 

Jason wasn't mad. He was happy for his friend. He figured that Matt was the one who saved her when she needed help the most. He was happy for them. If they became a couple he wouldn't mind. 

Simone came over and gave Carli a hug and looked over at Matt and Marsha dancing. "He's a really good guy," she said. "Any woman would be blessed to have him." She touched her friend's arm. "Congrats Carli." She looked over to Jason and nodded at him. He smiled and nodded back at her. She walked away. 

Next, Bello came and shook his son's hand and slapped him on the back. "You did well, son."

Jason smiled at him. He liked his dad now. He was glad they were reconciled.

Antonia came forward and Jason hugged her. He thanked her for being a positive force in his life. She smiled quietly and told him all her actions were to honor his grandmother who had taught her so much and not just about cooking. Jason nodded and said, "Thank you." She apologized for her kids being absent and told him they had to work. Jason nodded and told her he understood. He promised himself he would rekindle his relationship with them, but now it was about him and his new bride.

Next, Momma Bridget came to them with Joel and Lisa, The kids hugged her and told her she was beautiful, even though they were shy. She had only met them once when she and Sandra had gone over to their house to discuss the menu for the reception. Bridget hugged her daughter-in-law. 

"Welcome to the family," she told her. 

Carli nodded. "Thank you. Glad to be a part." she answered cheerfully. 

"When I get back I need that recipe for the jerk chicken," she told her. 

Momma Bridget laughed. "Not a problem," she said.

Red Man and Tina weren't able to attend, but Jason promised to introduce Carli to them after they came back from the honeymoon.

Around 4:30 p.m. Jason gave her the eye, indicating he was ready to leave. Jason whispered to Carli's family that they were leaving. He walked over to uncle Pat and told him they were leaving to go upstairs to their hotel room for the night. He patted him on the shoulder and said, "Remember to cherish her as the weaker vessel." Patrick dug into his pocket, opened his hand to give Jason the keys to the condo. Jason took them from him and smiled.

Jason nodded. "Will do," he said.

He clasped Carli's arm in his and led her out of the hotel's conference room and up the stairs. He had fetched the hotel key card when he had gone to the bathroom earlier. He walked leisurely with her to the elevator. They stepped in and she rested her head on his shoulder. "Tired?" he asked.

"A little," she smiled at him.

They stepped out of the elevator and walked to room 102. He swiped the card and the door unlocked. He allowed her to enter first then stepped in and locked the door behind them. He turned around to see complimentary champagne chilling in an ice bucket for them. There was a card. 

It read: ' "Congratulations Carli and Jason. May God continue to light your path." - Uncle Pat.' 

Carli disappeared in the bathroom. Jason sat on the bed waiting for her. "Sorry, I had to do number two," she told him chuckling. She snuggled up to him and kissed his cheek. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer. "Beautiful baby, that's fine as long as your heart is with me," he said.

She leaned on his chest. Their bags were brought up earlier and were by the left side of the bed. The bags were closest to him so Jason was able to bend down and tuck the condo keys in a small zipper section, the size of a pants' pocket in his duffle bag. 

Jason had brought the painting with him. He decided he would show her now instead of waiting to give it to her at the condo. He reached for the covered canvas and placed it in her lap. "What's this?" she asked. 

"A present. My way to say thank you for who you are to me. Open it," he said smiling at her.

Carli carefully tore off the paper and covered her mouth in awe when she realized that it was a painting of her. Her eyes were closed. Her hair framing her face was spread out on the pillow in soft curls. She looked at him speechless. It was beautiful! She thought. 

"Do you like it? Is it okay?" he asked. He was anxious. He hadn't done something like that in a long while.

Carli leaned forward and hugged him. "Baby," she said her voice trembling, "thank you so much. It's beautiful. How?"

"Remember the morning I came into your room and snuggled with you?" he asked her. She nodded dumbfounded. "I took a few pics of you while you were asleep," he said. Carli planted a firm kiss on his lips. "Thank you baby. I'll cherish it. Will it be safe to carry to Ocho Rios? I don't want it to be damaged."

"I'm gonna asked Omie to bring it home for me and keep it safe. He and Aisha will be staying overnight at a nearby airbnb. Not paid by me." He saw her expression and laughed softly. "I'm a married man now. I have to spend my money wisely." he said cupping her face. She kissed him softly then caressed his hair. She looked into his eyes and smiled. "I love you Jason."

"I love you Carli," he said. His eyes showed his affection for her. 

She handed the painting back to him. He took it and laid it carefully against the wall. 

Carli scooted off the queen sized bed and went to her bag. She pulled a zipper and took out a plastic bag with something in it. She smiled at Jason and said, "I'll be back."

He nodded. 

Minutes after Jason heard the shower running. After seven minutes Carli was out in a bathrobe. She winked at him. "Your turn," she said smiling. "There's a bathrobe on a rack on the door." Jason came to her and kissed her lips. He slapped her butt then took out a clean rag, towel and something else he had seen in Montego Bay he thought Carli might like. He went into the shower and was out in five minutes. He was wearing the bathrobe. When Carli saw him she laughed. The robe was too short for him and did not cover his muscular thighs, while the one she was wearing was brushing on the floor. "Maybe I took up the wrong one," she said laughing. Jason chuckled. He came to her and held her close. He rubbed his hands across her back down to her buttocks. 

"What are you hiding under all this fluff?" he asked her. 

Carli chuckled. "What are you hiding?" she teased.

"You first," he told her. 

"Okay," she said cheekily. "Go sit."

Jason lay back on the bed and watched her. 

Carli stepped away from the bed and slowly untied her robe. She inched it down off her shoulders, passed her waist to fall at her feet. Jason eyes widened. She was wearing black lacy, mesh lingerie. Her cleavage perked up in the lacy bra cups. She was wearing transparent lacy panties and her midriff was covered by a mesh fabric. The spaghetti straps were made from lace also. She came to him, her smile broadening as she saw his reaction up close. 

"You like?" she asked.

"Yes," he said. He looked at her lustfully. 

He reached for her, but she stepped back. "Your turn," she said.

Jason smiled cheekily. He nodded. He stood up and moved away from the bed, while Carli lay on it and watched him. He pulled off his bathrobe to reveal underparts with a hilarious image of an elephant's face with its trunk hanging down. Carli could see that the 'trunk' was aroused. She sat up and looked at it as the fabric expanded. Jason came to her. She looked up at his face. He smiled. He got the reaction he was looking for. He sat beside her and cupped her face. 

"Beautiful baby, tonight is the beginning of our forever together. I love you with all of me. Touch me. My body belongs to you," he said. 

Almost in awe, Carli ran her fingers across his chest and arms. She had seen them before, but that was months earlier. His muscles seemed to have hardened even more since then. She wondered if it was because of the hard work he had to do in Montego Bay. He was beautiful. "You're beautiful," she said to him. 

Jason bent his head to touch hers. "You are very beautiful baby," he told her. 

Moistening his lips, Jason sought her lips and kissed her gently while he closed his eyes. Carli reciprocated by opening her mouth to receive him. Jason slipped his tongue in her mouth and teased her. He kissed her slowly savoring her minty fresh taste. He was glad he had brushed his teeth before stepping out of the shower. He wanted her to be comfortable with him. Slowly, he moved his mouth across her cheek bone, down her jaw to her neck. Jason pulled and suckled on her neck gently. He nibbled a little with his teeth and heard her breath quicken. He smiled to himself. He would have her screaming his name tonight. 

He used his hands to gently push her back on the bed. She lay back and looked into his eyes. He saw that she trusted him completely. He would not violate that trust. He lay beside her and cupped her face. 

"Carli, adamaina am'mayi, nēnu ninnu entō prēmistunnānu," he breathed in her ear. She closed her eyes.

She chuckled. "I don't know what you said, but it sounds beautiful," she said.

"I just said, 'my beautiful girl, I love you very much'," he said. "Nuvvu nā prēma, this means 'you are my love'."

"You sound so sexy when you speak to me like that," Carli said breathlessly. Jason captured her lips hungrily.

He pulled her on top of him and kissed her passionately. Jason tugged impatiently at her lingerie. Carli sat up on him and pulled off the top and lowered her torso so he could have access to her breasts. He suckled them gently, pulling on them slowly. He caressed her buttocks, not squeezing too hard, applying just the right amount of pressure. She moaned his name. He flipped her over on the bed. He removed the panties of the lingerie set and looked at her. He looked up at her face, his expression moving quickly from surprise to lust.

"You shaved?" he asked, his voice hoarse.

Carli smiled. "No, I got it waxed. But that will be the first and last time. Never again," she said chuckling.

Jason smiled at her. "Did they hurt you?" he asked.

"No enuh, it wasn't so bad, but it was the intimate, embarrassing touching on my lady parts by a stranger that creeped me out. So nah, never again," she told him.

He touched her soft, smooth mound. He cupped her gently and squeezed. Carli bit her lips as she felt his warm hand touch her. "It looks good. Thank you, if that makes it any better, but yeah I understand. From now on I'm a willing volunteer to shave you if you want."

Carli nodded. "Thank you baby." She reached her hands out to him. He lay on top of her and kissed her tenderly, closing his eyes. Carli breathed in the fresh scent of his skin. She closed her eyes, letting herself go and kissed him with no inhibitions.

Jason moistened his lips and trailed soft, dewy kisses from her neck down to her breasts, her belly, her thighs. He parted her legs, leaned forward and looked at her, She was so beautiful. They did a good job on her, he had to admit. No bruising or swelling. He kissed her soft, round pubic area, then pulled on the skin gently. She moaned his name softly. He used his fingers to gently part her folds and kiss her, taking his time with her. He suckled and licked her gently.

He looked at her committing how she looked to memory, then closed his eyes as he pleasured her. He wanted to savor every moment of this for himself. He inserted a finger and moved it slowly back and forth inside her. His eyes were still closed when he removed his finger, and slipped his tongue inside, moving his head back and forth to give her pleasure. She moaned more loudly. He groaned when he heard her make that sound. He opened his eyes and looked at her.

"Sweet Carli, you're so beautiful. I'm yours. Tell me what you want me to do? How do you want me to please you?" he asked her. He used his freshly trimmed beard to lightly brush against her inner thighs. She moaned for him.

"Just do what you're doing," she said. "Taste me and tell me I'm beautiful. And make sweet love to me." She was making those soft, sexy whimpering sounds he liked.

Jason lovingly caressed her buttocks as he used his lips and tongue to satisfy her. While she climaxed in his arms he moved his tongue faster so her orgasm could be more intense. He held her close after and told her he loved her. He cradled her and kissed her forehead, watching her.

She reached for his member and gently massaged the shaft. "Are you ready?" he asked her. He took her hand and kissed it.

"Yes," she said nodding. "Make sweet love to me, Jason." She looked at him with deep yearning. He slipped off his underwear and lay on top of her.

Jason captured her lips passionately. She moaned and closed her eyes. Slowly, he inserted himself inside her. He kissed her lips and whispered her name. He told her he loved her again in his family's native tongue and watched as she arched her body up to him. Inch by inch, he entered her slowly and moved gently in her, making sure she was comfortable. She was so wet. He told her she felt wonderful.

"Sweet Carli, you feel so good. So wonderful. I love you."

He leaned forward and clasped his hands in hers, pressing her into the bed. He began moving more faster in her, pushing all of himself in her. Carli gasped and moaned softly. "Jason, I love you. I'm glad to be your wife," she told him.

"And I'm glad to be your husband," he said increasing his pace, creating a rhythm that took both their breaths away.

With all that was in him, he made love to her, making sure he was gentle with her, and she gave all of herself to him without reservation.

-- The End --

Chapter 1: New Friends