Coming Full Circle--Part 5

By Nancy F. Thysell (the Nifty Lady)

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

By noon all the snow had melted and even though the temperature stayed above freezing, it was a bone chilling day. Krys arrived at the First United Methodist Church with her parents just ahead of other members of the wedding party. They hurried into the building to get out of the cold. The church's wedding coordinator showed Krys and her mother to the room where she would dress. Annie had brought Krys' gown to the church early that morning. Allison arrived a few minutes later. Soon Krys' sister Rebecca, her sisters-in-law, Allison and Michelle, were crowded into the room to help Krys dress.

"Come on, Krys. Let's get going," Allison urged. "Johnny and Roy are here so don't worry about them. The photographer is going to be here any minute if you want some pictures with Mom and Dad before the ceremony."

Krys was struggling to slip into a mountain of crinolines. "I know. I know. Where's Daddy?"

Annie was trying to steady the crinolines for her to step into them. "As soon as you're dressed, I go find him," she promised. Next came the dress. Several hands help to ease it over her head so as not to muss her hairdo. Krys had let her hair grow longer over the past few months, only cutting the bangs. The hairdresser had swept her hair into a French twist. Tiny flowers had been poked into the curls that had been lacquered in to place with heavy doses of hair spray.

"Watch the hair!" Annie directed. Krys smiled at her as her head came through the dress.

"Oh, Mom! Lilly puts so much hair spray on here, I don't think I'll ever get it out!" she joked. Rebecca began to hook the line of pearl buttons on the back of the dress. Allison helped with the cuffs. Michelle handed Krys her fingerless gloves.

"Oh! Don't forget my garter!" Krys reminded them. Annie held up the pearl necklace and the garter.

"I've got it," she said with a smile. She could hardly believe that her baby was actually getting married! The girls helped Krys to sit so she could slip on the garter that her sister had made for her. Once the necklace was clasped all they had to do was fasten the veil and Krys would be ready to march down the aisle.

Krys' bridesmaids each wore dark blue velvet gowns and matching satin pumps, with three-quarter length white gloves and a single strand of pearls. Each of them would carry a nosegay of white baby roses.

Rebecca's seven-year-old daughter Cindy would be the flower girl and she was also dressed in a blue velvet dress. She would wear a pair of white gloves and carry a basket of rose petals. Alan would serve as ring bearer. Annie returned with Doug and the photographer a few minutes later for the pre-nuptial pictures. One o'clock was rapidly approaching.

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the church, Johnny and Roy waited for the minister to tell them it was time to take their places. Both men looked sharp in their uniforms. Johnny paced nervously.

"Will you give it a rest, Johnny? You're making me nervous," Roy joked. Johnny stopped his pacing and grinned at his partner.

"Don't make you nervous? You have nothing to be nervous about! I'm the one getting married here!" Johnny gestured profoundly by placing his hand over his heart.

Roy chuckled, "I know Junior. Believe me, I know! Why don't you sit down a spell? You're going to be on your feet for a long time this afternoon."

"What?" Johnny perched on the edge of a sturdy wooden chair and tossed his hat in his hands.

"You didn't forget about the receiving line, did ya?"

"Oh yeah. That's where we have to greet all of the guests. Man! Roy that's gonna take forever!"

"You'll survive it. Think you're ready for this?" Roy asked sincerely.

Johnny took in a deep breath and released it slowly. "As ready as I'm gonna be. What time is?"

Roy looked at his wrist watch and wondered why Johnny didn't look at his own. Nerves probably. "It's twelve-fifty."

"Man! Ten minutes." Johnny rubbed his hands together. "You think there are many people out there?"

"You want me to check?" Roy offered. He would like the opportunity to do something.

"Nah. That's okay. Now, you've got the ring?"

"Yeah. I thought you two were going to wait until tomorrow to exchange rings."

"We were but we decided we could still do it here. You're the only one that will be at both ceremonies," Johnny explained to his friend.

"Makes sense."

The prelude music began. It wouldn't be long now. The minister, Charles Wright came to the room a moment later.

"It's time gentlemen," he announced. Johnny and Roy followed him into the chapel and took their places by the altar. Johnny felt a bit uneasy under the scrutiny of the congregation. He felt Roy's presence by his side and they both stood at attention as the music began the processional.

Johnny watched in wonderment as the bridesmaids made their way down the center aisle. They were followed by the matron of honor, Rebecca. Then came the flower girl and ring bearer. Little Cindy reminded both Johnny and Roy of Jennifer and they grinned at each other. The music then signal the bride's entrance and the congregation stood as Krys entered on her father's arm. When they reached her mother, Krys removed a loose, long-stem rose from the side of her bouquet of white roses and handed it to Annie. Annie hugged her gently and then they resumed their path to the altar.

Johnny's caught his breath as he viewed his bride. She looked incredible to him as she floated down the aisle to him. Doug relinquished his daughter to the young man before him and took his seat by his wife. Johnny couldn't take his eyes off Krys. She was breathtaking in the white gown. Her veil couldn't hide the joy on her face. He held her hand tightly as they turned to face the minister and take their vows.

The actual ceremony on lasted buy a few minutes and before Johnny knew it he heard the minister say, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Johnny grinned as he lifted Krys' veil and took his wife into his arms and kissed her. Reverend Wright had to clear his throat to politely signal Johnny to release his bride. Krys blushed as they turned and faced the congregation as husband and wife. The recessional began and with Krys' arm in his, Mr. and Mrs. John Roderick Gage made their way down the aisle and out to an awaiting car which whisked them off to the reception.

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

After an endless number of photographs the wedding party assembled for the receiving line. And Johnny was right, it did take forever. He loss track of how many family members he was introduced to. His dress coat was becoming a bit warm inside the banquet room where the reception was being held. He watched with amusement as Krys slipped out of her heels half way through the line and suddenly dropped a couple of inches off her height. He was beginning to wish he could slip out of his shoes as well. He glanced over at Roy and noticed he was shifting often on his feet.

Finally the last guest made it through the line and they made their way over to cut the wedding cake. The three-tiered cake was a tower of white icing with delicate blue roses decorating the swags on each layer. A small bride and groom crowned the cake under a silk flower arch. Nearby the groom's cake sat adorned with a small fire truck. Both Johnny and Roy got a chuckle out of that. Soon the photos of them cutting the cake were done and it was time for the toast. Roy, as best man, had the honor of making the toast. He raised his glass of champagne to the happy couple first.

"To Johnny and Krys. May this day be the beginning of a joyous life together. Most of you here don't know Johnny but we've been best friends for a long time. And I want you all to know that Krys has gotten herself one of the best. To the Bride and Groom," Roy toasted and drank a sip of champagne. The crowd chorused, "To the Bride and Groom!" and everyone drank to their happiness. Krys still giggled as the bubbles tickled her nose. Johnny had his arm wrapped gently around her waist. Gradually they relaxed and began to enjoy the mingling with the guests. Johnny pulled Roy aside.

"Keep an eye on the time," he cautioned. "We don't want to be late leaving for the airport."

"Don't worry. I've got it under control," Roy assured him. He and Doug Martin were both keeping an eye on the time.

Annie finally got a chance to have a moment with Krys.

"Oh Krys. You look so beautiful today!"

"Thanks Mom. I feel so happy!" Krys exclaimed. Her eyes sought out her husband and found him chatting with a couple of her aunts. "Oh dear, looks like Aunt Helen and Aunt Ruth have cornered Johnny. When am I supposed to throw the bouquet?"

Annie looked at her watch. "Soon. You're going to have to change clothes first. We need to get Johnny over here and let him take off your garter."

"Okay, you go rescue him then," Krys suggested. Annie nodded and made her way across the room to her new son-in-law.

"Excuse me ladies, Johnny it's time to do the garter," she informed him. A huge grin crossed his face as he turned in looked in Krys' direction. Roy was assisting her by bringing out a chair for her to sit on.

"Come on partner!" Roy cajoled as Krys tried to sit demurely on the seat. Her crinolines created a mass of fabric. There hoots and hollers from some of Krys' younger relatives as Johnny crossed the room to kneel at her side. More shouts of encouragement came as he lifted her skirt to reveal the satin garter. The crimson blush of Krys' complexion was quite a contrast against the white of her gown. Johnny gently removed the garter to the cheers of the guests and then he reached up and kissed her lips.

"Now what?" he asked as he rose to his feet.

"You toss it to the single men!" a voice from the crowd yelled.

"Well, you better gather round cause I don't know which one of you are married," Johnny joked. About five or six young men were coerced into coming forward. Johnny turned his back on them and held the garter high, twirling it around and flung toward the bachelors. Krys' sister-in-law Allison's brother Bill caught the garter. The other guys clapped him on the back with congratulations and condolences. Bill just got a goofy grin on his face.

"Ladies, Krys will throw her bouquet after she changes her clothes, so just be patient," Annie announced. Then she turned to Krys, "Come on, honey. There's a room over here where you can change. Your suit is already in there."

"Can I come too?" Johnny asked hopefully. Annie looked at him with a confused look. She wasn't expecting that.

"Uh, yeah. I guess," she replied awkwardly. Krys took his hand.

"Of course you can come. You're my husband now," she said sweetly.

They crossed the room to the small side room and slipped inside. Annie started to close the door as she noticed the way Johnny and Krys were gazing into each other's eyes.

"Krys? Johnny?" she asked to get their attention. They both looked at her. "If you don't need me, I'm going to go find your father," she stated. "Just remember you've got a plane to catch and the time is getting late."

Krys blushed and giggled. "Yes, ma'am."

Annie smiled at them both and left the room.

Krys looked up into Johnny's brown eyes and played with his tie. "So, you think you can manage all these buttons?"

Johnny's arms surrounded her and his fingers felt the buttons on her dress. Krys giggled.

"That tickles," she muttered as Johnny began to nibble on her neck. "Ohhhh, I like that!"

"Oh yeah? Well let's see what else I can do to pleasure you," he whispered wickedly.

Krys pulled back and put on a stern look, rather unsuccessfully.

"You're being a bad boy!" she scolded. Johnny smiled charmingly at her.

"Can you blame me?"

"Yes! Come on, the sooner I change clothes, the sooner we'll be on our way," she told him. She turned her back on him and waited for him to unbutton the dress. It was such an interesting experience to feel Johnny fumbling with the loops over the buttons and feel the dress give way.

"You are so beautiful," he whispered in her ear and she felt chills rivet through her body. She had to shake herself back to the task at hand. The dress fell to the floor. She felt exposed and suddenly shy as Johnny helped her step out of the dress and crinolines.

"Now what?" he asked, finding the experience arousing. Krys blushed and awkwardly reached for her suit.

"I guess I'd better get dressed," she answered breathlessly. Johnny pulled her close and kissed her hungrily, his hands caressing her. Krys was losing herself in the passion of the moment. If there hadn't been a knock at the door, who knows where it might have led.

"Krys?" Doug Martin called through the closed door. Johnny reluctantly released her.

"Yes, Daddy?" she responded trying to make her voice sound normal.

"You about ready? You need to leave in ten minutes," he reminded them. Krys smiled as she leaned her head on Johnny's shoulder. Johnny rolled his eyes heavenward.

"We'll be right out," she said. Quickly, Krys stepped into the skirt and pulled it up to her waist. Johnny watched as she dressed. He handed her the jacket to the suit and helped her put it on. She buttoned it and then handed Johnny a corsage box that contained an orchid.

"Here, can you pin this on for me?" Johnny stared at the box and then opened it.

"Well, I guess if I can start an IV, I should be able to manage a corsage," he joked and fumbled with the ribbons and the pin. Once the corsage was secured, he took her face in his hands and kissed her lightly.

"Let's go throw that bouquet, Mrs. Gage," he suggested. Krys beamed at her husband and together they reentered the banquet room. The single ladies eagerly formed a group and awaited the toss of the bouquet. Krys tossed it over her shoulder to the shrieks of the young women. A long-time friend, Karen was the lucky recipient. Then they made a run for the awaiting car under a shower of rice and good wishes. Krys' brother Dale and Roy had the motor running and as soon as the door closed behind Johnny, Dale pulled away from the curb. They all sighed with relief as the banquet hall faded from view. Annie and Doug would follow with the rest of the luggage a few minutes later. Krys relaxed into Johnny's arms and he held her tightly. Now all they had to do was get back to LA, have the ring ceremony and then they'd be off on their honeymoon. Piece of cake, right?

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

Dale pulled into a space being vacated by another car. The chill of the November afternoon made Krys shiver beneath the jacket of her suit. Johnny noticed and quickly wrapped his uniform coat around her. If she hadn't been so cold she would have objected but she was freezing. They only had to cross over to the airline check in. They hurried across and got in line. Hopefully, Doug and Annie would be arriving in time to check the rest of the luggage which included Krys' wedding dress. Johnny held Krys close to him as they and Roy stood in line. Dale had returned to the curb to watch for his parents. Ten minutes later, Doug and Dale brought in the six bags of luggage that needed to be checked. Roy found it interesting how little he and Johnny came to KC with and how much more was going back. Besides Krys' own bag, Annie had packed four suitcases with wedding gifts and one with the dress. That way each of them could check two bags straight to LA. Johnny and Roy still had their carry-ons. Soon they had the bags checked and got their seat assignments. Krys and Johnny had the two seats across the aisle from Roy. It really didn't matter to Roy. He planned to sleep all the way back to LA. Annie, Doug and Dale walked them to the gate and waited for them to board.

Krys sat on the hard plastic chair and held Johnny's hand anxiously. She was finding it hard to believe she was married plus the thought of flying made her feel uneasy. She smiled nervously at Johnny.

"You okay sweetie?" he asked solicitously.

"A little scared, I guess," she admitted. Johnny smiled at her.

"Don't worry. It'll be fine," he promised. Krys nodded and griped his hand a little tighter. Johnny placed his other hand on top of hers and gave her a little squeeze. Finally the flight began boarding. Annie and Krys shared a tearful goodbye hug. Then Krys hugged her father and brother. Johnny and Roy shook hands with both men then Johnny gave Annie a hug and a kiss on the cheek. With a goodbye wave the trio headed down the passageway to the plane.

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

The airplane was only about three-quarters full because of it being a holiday weekend. Roy had the luxury of not having seat mates so as soon as he could, he stretched out over all three seats. Krys was in the seat next to the window. Johnny let his long legs spill into the aisle. After the meal was served, Krys cuddled against Johnny's shoulder and fell asleep. Johnny sat there staring at her for the longest time, smiling to himself. He tucked the blue airline blanket up under Krys' chin and smoothed it over her legs. She stirred slightly but did not awaken. He kissed the top of her head and snuggled down and rested his head on hers and soon fell into a contented slumber.

Their flight arrived at LAX just after eleven p.m. PST. JoAnne was waiting for them at the gate. After the luggage was loaded in the DeSoto's station wagon, Roy drove the newlyweds to Johnny's house. Johnny made Krys wait in the car with JoAnne while he and Roy unloaded the bags and carried them into the house. Krys got a chance to tell JoAnne about the wedding while they waited. Finally, Johnny and Roy returned to the car. Roy slid behind the steering wheel as Johnny helped Krys out of the car.

"G'night Roy. JoAnne," they called as Roy put the car in gear. JoAnne waved and they watched as the car disappeared down the drive. Johnny groaned as he thought about how soon they would be back to take them to the ring ceremony. He wiped his face as he contemplated how fast everything had been happening and it still wasn't over. They turned back to the house. Krys tried to stifle a yawn but couldn't help herself.

"Tired sweetie?" he asked as they reached the porch.

"Yeah," Krys responded tiredly. Johnny scooped her up into his arms.

"Well, I guess it's time I carried you over the threshold Mrs. Gage and put you to bed," he announced. Krys wrapped her arms around his neck and giggled.

"Sounds good to me, Mr. Gage," she responded. Johnny carried her through the open door and closed it with his foot. Then he took her up the stairs to their bedroom and placed her on the bed. He knelt beside her and began to remove her clothes. Krys let him do all the work. She only really felt self conscious about the scars on her leg but the room was dimly lit so if Johnny noticed, he didn't say anything. Once she was undressed, Johnny helped her slip under the covers and then he undressed and joined her. Shyly Krys reached out for him. Johnny let her explore him with her hands and then he reciprocated until it culminated in their lovemaking. Then they fell into a contented and blissful sleep.

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

Saturday morning arrived bright and sunny and way too early for the newlyweds. Johnny stretched luxuriously and then quickly crossed to the bathroom. Krys was sleeping sounding and didn't even stir when he left the bed. He pulled out a pair of jeans and slipped them on and quietly left the bedroom and went downstairs. He put the coffee pot on. He began trying to decide what to do about breakfast when a sleepy Krys appeared at the kitchen door dressed only in one his t-shirts.

"Hi sweetie! Don't you look cute!"

"I didn't know where anything was so I had to borrow this. What are you doing?" she asked with a yawn.

"Looking for something to eat. You hungry?"

Krys grinned. "Yeah. Oh! You mean food, don't you?" and then she giggled. Johnny gave her a shocked look.

"Why Krystal Gage! Just what are you implying?" he said in a teasing tone as he pulled her into his arms. She laid her head against his bare chest, sighed and then looked innocently up at her husband.

"Oh, I just thought you might...uh...show me a few more things," she suggested shyly. Johnny laughed.

"How about we eat so I'll have the energy?"

"Well, if you insist. What do we have to cook with?" She peered over his arm as he opened the refrigerator. Obviously, JoAnne had brought over a few things because the appliance was stocked with a variety of foods, suitable for a lavish breakfast. Johnny pulled items out and handed them to Krys and together they prepared a sumptuous meal. After the leftovers were put away and the dishes were done, Johnny led Krys back to the bedroom for another "lesson."

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

The DeSoto's arrived in both of their vehicles just a little past noon. JoAnne and Jennifer helped Krys get into her wedding gown for the ring ceremony. Both Roy and Johnny were back in their dress uniforms. JoAnne and Jennifer wore matching dresses. For this ceremony, JoAnne would be the matron of honor and Jennifer a junior bridesmaid. Christopher would act as the ring bearer. Soon they had the bags in the trunk and they headed for the Santa Monica pier.

Since the pier was where they had met, Krys and Johnny had decided that this was the place to have the ring ceremony. Because the number of guests was under fifty, they rented chairs and an arch to be arranged at the far end of the pier. Chet and Marco had volunteered to see that everything was set up in time for the ceremony. The sea breeze threaten to tip over the arch but Chet and Marco quickly filled a couple of trash bags with sand to anchor the base. At one o'clock, the guests were seated. Roy escorted JoAnne to the archway. Then Christopher and Jennifer joined them. Then Krys and Johnny made their way down the makeshift aisle to the arch to stand in front of Roy and JoAnne. Roy addressed their friends and coworkers.

"As you all know, Krys and Johnny were married yesterday back in Kansas City. Not wanting to omit any of their friends from this occasion we are gathered here today as they share this moment with all of you as they exchange their wedding rings. Johnny..."

Johnny turned to Christopher and opened his hand. Christopher placed the gold wedding band in his "Uncle's" hand. Johnny took Krys' left hand in his.

"Krys, this ring is a symbol of my love and devotion," he said softly as he slipped the ring on her finger. Tears welled in her eyes. Then Christopher handed her Johnny's ring. She then took Johnny's left hand in hers.

"Johnny, this ring is a symbol of my love and devotion," she said likewise as she slipped the ring on his finger. Then Johnny took her into his arms and kissed her. The guests applauded and cheered. Krys dutifully blushed.

Johnny turned to their guest and announced, "You are all now invited to join us for a carousel ride!"

With Krys on this arm, Johnny led the way down the pier to the merry-go-round. Soon everyone had found a horse to mount or place to sit and the music began to play as they began their counter-clockwise journey. Krys snuggled next to Johnny in "their" carriage. Everything had come full circle. And she was content. Johnny grinned down at his bride. He tilted her head up with his fingertips and kissed her. Now all they had left to do was make to the airport in time for their honeymoon flight.

* * * * * * * * E! * * * * * * * * *

THE END OF PART 5-CONTINUED IN PART 6

"Coming Full Circle" ©2000 by Nancy F. Thysell. "Emergency!" and its characters © Mark VII Productions. All rights reserved. No infringement on any copyrights or trademarks is intended or should be inferred. This is a work of fiction, and any similarity to actual persons or events is purely coincidental.