| Sweet Dreams! By Sharon Holtz Chapter Forty-Five |
As the wedding reception began in the candlelit Great Hall, the minstrels played
their melodic tunes, while everyone mingled and danced.
William, along with the kitchen crew he enlisted, busily set the prepared food
out on the buffet tables for the wedding feast. And oh my, what a feast it was!
William had prepared several relish trays, that were filled to overflowing, of
fresh cut veggies, with a zesty ranch flavored dip, which were set all about the
hall, for easy access to the wedding guests.
Meanwhile, the other appetizers such as the Tempura Chicken Wings, Sausage
Rolls, Stuffed Mushrooms and Shrimp Appetizers were served on continually
replenished trays, offered to the guests by William's walk-about crew.
For refreshment, there was a delicious sweet fruited punch for the children...and
it might appear to the onlooker, as though the barrels of ciders, and ginger wines
for the adults were bottomless, because they were! The fermented brews
flowed like the falls, keeping everyone quenched, and very, very gay!
What a lovely time the wedding guests enjoyed! They were all universally
stoked over Catherine and Vincent's wedding celebration. Truly...how could
they not be? Here they were...an exclusive few, who have been embraced by
the tunnel community, invited to share this enchantingly romantic event with
them.
And needless to say, every aspect thus far, has fulfilled all of the wedding
couple's expectations. It was clear Catherine, and Vincent were having the time
of their lives. Both imparted a graceful ease, as they walked about, with her arm
elegantly entwined with his. Seeming as if they have been a couple forever, the
way they were so comfortable together, unaware, or perhaps, merely unmindful
of all the guests adoring gazes, and admiring comments. At times, they
whispered and chatted to one another, sharing smiles and laughter, as if no one
else even existed.
And it was mentioned a hundred times over by the beguiled observers, how they
believed Catherine...the brand new bride...never left her husband's side! There
she was, clinging to his every word, as they walked around the festive Great
Hall. And it was true...she had not left him this night, not even for a moment!
After all this was their moment in time, a moment they had both dreamed of,
for what seemed like an eternity, beginning their eternal life together as a
married couple. She was his chosen princess, and he was her princely hero, who
enthralled her so, with his warm welcoming graciousness, as he spoke to each of
their joyful guests. It was as if this day, brought a freshness to every aspect of
their relationship, even hearing stories repeated a few times over did not bore
Catherine. She reacted to them anew with each guest, never growing weary.
Catherine was definitely having a wonderful time, and the fact Vincent WAS
enjoying himself too, brought much relief to her. Earlier that morning as she
soaked in her bubble bath, she tried to envision how Vincent would handle all
the attention that would be thrown at him this day. So as the day played out,
she could not have been more pleased at his pleasant hosting manner.
When it was time to dine, everyone was seated, and Catherine and Vincent,
were given their places of honor, at the front of the table. Along side them, sat
Father, Mary and Peter. Around them, was seating for Devin, Mouse, Jennifer,
Ronald, Pascal, Rebecca, and Lisa. The next line of seating was for, Samantha,
Laura, Brooke, Jamie, Kanin, Olivia, Kipper, next a free for all the rest of the
wedding guests.
The Second Course, was Wild Rice and Carrot Soup, and then a nice Cheddar
Broccoli Salad was presented as the Third. The next course was served Buffet
style. There was Asparagus and Lemon Butter Crumb garnish, Sweet Carrots,
slices of Beef Rib Roast, along with Oven Roasted Potatoes, served with an
assortment of freshly baked breads and Dinner Rolls. William additionally
delighted everyone with a sweet delectable embellishment...Chocolate Dipped
Strawberries!
The wedding feast was delicious, and prepared impeccably by William!
Everyone was impressed by the meal, and Lisa told Samantha, that she had
never tasted anything finer...not even in the most fanciest of restaurants in all of
France!
Then a silence fell over the Great Hall, as Pascal stood to make the traditional
Wedding Toast by the Best Man. In wonderment, he said, "Wow! Vincent is
really married! As you all know, I grew up with this guy...and I gotta say that I
have seen a big change in him ever since he met Catherine. Yes a big
change...he combs his hair more often now!"
Everyone laughed, and Vincent gave Pascal a look, as if to say, "Watch it now!"
Catherine smiled up at Vincent as she took in his comedic reaction, seeming to
be right at home as the straight guy.
Nodding as his own smile faded, Pascal continued, "Seriously though...a
calm...err, rather, a peacefulness has settled over my friend, like I have never
seen in him before. And it is all because of Catherine...and although I didn't
know her before, she sure has had her struggles adjusting to life here. But she is
coming along just great and working very hard to learn the ropes, or should I
say the pipes, as to not have any more false alarms!"
Catherine turned red, as everyone began laughing. They were all too aware of
all the mistakes she had been making with the pipe messaging codes.
Then to everyone's surprise and amusement, Catherine clanged out a code on
her champagne glass, saying, "T-H-A-N-K-S T-O Y-O-U P-A-S-C-A-L!"
To which Pascal proudly responded, "See what I mean? Catherine really HAS
improved! That was a perfect execution of our code pattern, and Catherine you
are most welcome."
He then shared a smile with her, before raising his glass, and replied, "To
Vincent and Catherine. We all wish you both a long happy, healthy life together."
The hall was filled with affirming cheers, and Vincent and Catherine thanked
Pascal for his kind words.
Next, Peter stood. And with tears in his eyes, said, "I had not planned on
speaking, I have nothing written down or planned, but what the heck, Pascal
you inspired me! Ahem, Where do I begin? Well, I suppose I will begin at the
began! I delivered Catherine, helped bring her into this world...well not this
world here below...she had to fulfill her own destiny and find this place for
herself. But I was not only her doctor, but a friend of her Family's as well. And
so I was there to see Cathy grow into the beautiful person she is now. However
alas, after Vincent rescued and saved her, she then chose to bravely follow her
heart, in order to share her life with Vincent. This is her home now, her future
lies here. And I could not be more pleased for her. And Vincent, well I have
known him all of his life too. What an incredible spirit he has, I have watched
him grow up into the remarkable man he is, and what can I say...I love him like
a son, and Catherine...I love her as a daughter. I have been lucky enough, to
watch these two exceptional people grow up in their perspective worlds, leading
so very different lives, and still they managed to find one another. Hey, and
with no meddling on my part what-so-ever either! How do you like that?"
Everyone laughed, and as they quieted down, Peter continued, "So today as I
walked Cathy down the aisle, in place of my beloved friend, Charles...I
wondered how I could be so fortunate to have this sweet girl look to me as a
stand in for her Dad...such a great man. But she did...and I could not have felt
more honored. So on behalf of Charles, I gave my consent and approval to
Catherine and Vincent today. Cuz I know if Charles could have known Vincent,
he would have been proud to place his daughter's hand in his as well. There is
no finer man, than him."
Shyly Vincent looked down. His heart was filled with love, affection and
gratitude to Peter for saying such nice things about him. Peter then added, "I
love you both...and I toast you."
Catherine wiped the tears away that had fallen down her cheeks. She loved
Peter so, and loved what he had said about Charles approving of Vincent. She
knew in her heart he was right. So together, they honored Peter, by each giving
him a heart felt embrace, and they then raised their glasses to him.
After everyone else also toasted Peter, it then when Jennifer stood up, looked at
the wedding couple, and in an awing fashion said, "Look at you guys! A real life
love story! Complete with a happy ending too. And look at all you both get in
the bargain! Vincent...you get the most wonderful person in the whole world as
your wife...and Cathy you get Vincent...a true hero if ever I saw one! And I
should know, as he came to my rescue once or twice! AND last but not
least...you get Pops...err Father as your brand new DAD to stand with Peter!
How lucky can you get? I salute and love you both! Cheers!"
Jacob laughed aloud, and Catherine couldn't let the moment pass, without
acknowledging her joy, that indeed, Jacob was now her new father-in-law. So
she hammed it up a little as she went over to him and kissed him on the cheek,
causing Jacob to nearly melt right there!
He loved that Catherine openly expressed her affection for him, and the crowd
loved it too! Most of them were aware of the rough going there was between
Catherine and Jacob in the beginning. And so, her sweet daughterly kiss she
bestowed to his cheek, was proof they had evolved into the relationship they
now have.
Lovingly in response, he cupped her hand in his, and fondly smiled at her before
she took her seat again next to her husband.
Mary whispered to Jacob, "Oh my! How lovely."
She then blew her nose, and re-adjusted her hankie to dab at the tears in the
corner of her eyes. After one final snuffle, she inquisitively, asked, "Jacob...will
you be toasting the wedding couple?"
Jacob shakily smiled and thoughtfully said, "Yes, I should like to."
He then stood, and it wasn't long until everyone's attention was drawn to him,
and waited to hear what he would present as a toast to his son and new bride.
And so Jacob warmly said, "I believe I am still blushing from the kind attention I
received from my new daughter-in-law. However I shall gather my composure
and continue on....I have it all written down right here...unlike Peter, I am
prepared!"
He then shot Peter a superior look, causing everyone to chuckle at the running
gag between these two men, as Peter waved him off.
With affection, Jacob replied, "If I tug at you a bit Peter, it is only because I am
a bit envious of your standing with both of these children."
Meantime, all the while, Devin sat spellbound, as he noticed the warmth in
which his Father seemed to relate to everyone, and was mutually treated in
return. Could it be he had misjudged his 'ole man all these years?
Jacob then took a second or two, to attain the proper frame of mind before he
began his heart felt words. He then began, "Ahem...Today I am reminded of the
old song called "Turn around". It speaks of a parent, who observes their child
growing up, seemingly in the time it takes one to turn around. After each turn,
the child reaches a new phase of life, until finally they are grown, leading a life
of their own. Such is the place I find myself in today. Vincent...it seems as if
you were just that little boy of one, who cried when Lou tried to cut your hair
for the first time...well obviously, I catered to you and did not force the issue..."
Everyone laughed, and Vincent bashfully looked downward as Catherine
squeezed his hand, loving the story Father was telling.
Jacob then continued, "How could I? You looked at me with those eyes
brimming with tears, asking Father...please ask Lou to put the shears away.
And...well I did! Then as you grew...and your brilliance became apparent to us
all, you wanted to know about everything. I shant forget when both you and
Pascal became interested in robots. You both had to know everything about
robots! Well, Pascal's father, kindly read to you boys all he could find out about
them. The next thing I know, you're telling me about the inner workings of
robots! You were only three or four mind you, and you looked at me very
seriously, and informed me, "Robots are made Father...not borne." Oh my! I
can still see that serious look upon your face as you informed me, that Robots
are made...not borne! Priceless!"
Pascal laughed, as he humbly proclaimed to everyone, that it was all true, while
Devin lowered his eyes as his Father spoke so proudly about his youngest son.
Devin couldn't help but wonder what Jacob would be saying about HIM, if it
were HIS wedding day. Would he be as proud of him? Although Devin loved
his brother very much, it all did make him sad, thinking about those past
turbulent days before he left the tunnels for good.
Rebecca sitting next to Devin, noticed the pall that came over him, and warmly
whispered his name, as she patted his hand. For she knew the whole history of
the Wells family dysfunction back then, all too well, and could understand
Devin's mixed feelings.
With gratitude, he looked back at her, and covered up his melancholy, as he
raised his head to listen, as Jacob continued, "Well, I suppose I could go on
forever talking about how clever Vincent was as a boy...well...my point being
is...that you were knowledgeable in all areas! Learned in the arts, history,
mathematics, physics...well in ALL things! You caused us all to marvel at your
brilliance. And just like as in those days past, when you made me so proud to be
your Father, I am basking in pride today. As I look at you, and at lovely
Catherine, who you have chosen to be your wife...well I am only too eager to
see what happiness the future shall bring to you, as you begin a life together.
However, I am getting on in years, and I pray God will be kind, and allow me to
be an observer, at least for a while..."
Sadly Vincent inserted, "Father...stop that kind of talk! Of course you will be
around not merely as an observer...but to share in our life as well."
Devin felt the loving chemistry between his Father and brother. Realizing how
close they were, and of how much they needed each other, in contrast to
himself...who really didn't need anyone! Nor...did anyone need him! He had
managed to slip in and out of his family's lives so whimsically through the years,
that he felt he really didn't matter much to anyone, not here, or anywhere.
So, since he felt so inconsequential, he reacted typically, and true to "Devin"
form, discreetly poising himself to leave. However, just as he was about to get
up, Jacob reached out, and put his hand on Devin's shoulder.
Instinctively, Jacob sensed Devin felt out of place, so he pushed his own
Fatherly frustrations aside, to put him at ease, and to express his joy, that his
prodigal son was home. At the same time, wanting Devin to realize...it was not
always "All" about HIM! Today was Vincent's day...and they have a lifetime to
work on their broken ties...IF he stayed long enough to do so.
Devin looked up at his Father...and responded in kind with a pleading thankful
smile, seeming to request forgiveness for a life time of turmoil he had caused
him by his absence. And thanking him for stopping him from once again acting
impulsively. Devin realized how his leaving would have been upsetting to
Vincent.
Jacob shared a monumental moment with Devin, and with a slow blink of his
eyes, and an agreeable nod, Jacob then continued with his speech, and replied to
Vincent, while including a message to Devin, "None of us know how long we
have on this earth...So if you all will permit an old man the indulgence of
preaching a little bit on my son's wedding day, then I shall. I bid every one of
you to live your lives to the fullest, yet be kind to those you love. We must live
each day as if it were our last, while following our dreams according to the
Golden Rule. And stop long enough along the way, to establish connections that
cannot be severed by another man. If you do these things...then you will have a
full rich life. Understand...I am not on a soap box. I have not always managed
to do these things in my own life. However, I have observed these virtues in
others...right here...through Vincent and Catherine. You are a couple, who has
taught us much while touching our hearts with your obvious love and devotion
for each other but not at the exclusion of everyone else. And for all of us that
are a part of your lives...we thank you. I can tell you it has been a time
watching your relationship grow. A real life's lesson. So in conclusion I pray
your love shall gain strength through the years ahead, and continue being a
beacon for us all to follow."
Everyone toasted them, and Vincent stood to embrace his Father. It was an
emotional moment, because today, Vincent was making a life of his own. He
was no longer singularly Jacob's son, but he was now Catherine's husband too.
Vincent and Jacob, then pivoted a bit to face Devin. A moment passed, before
he realized they wished to include him, united as a family again. Shakily, he
stood, and was gleefully welcomed into a joint embrace with his Father and
brother. The community was touched and moved right along with these three
souls that have healed and united in a loving understanding, and forgiveness.
A nervous laughter soon erupted between them, acting as a segue for them to
lighten the mood and get back on track. Jacob cleared the emotion from his
voice, to warmly say, "Ahem...Catherine please join us...after all you are a
Wells now, and it appears we are having a reunion of sorts!"
Catherine happily joined her husband's family, and an applause broke out
through the hall as they formed a group hug.
Mary then leaned over to Peter and tearfully said, "Doesn't it seem that
Weddings tend to bring people together?"
Just as Peter was about to agree with her, she quickly interrupted him and said,
"Oh my, according to my list here, it is time to cut the cake!"
To be continued
Chapter Forty-Six
their melodic tunes, while everyone mingled and danced.
William, along with the kitchen crew he enlisted, busily set the prepared food
out on the buffet tables for the wedding feast. And oh my, what a feast it was!
William had prepared several relish trays, that were filled to overflowing, of
fresh cut veggies, with a zesty ranch flavored dip, which were set all about the
hall, for easy access to the wedding guests.
Meanwhile, the other appetizers such as the Tempura Chicken Wings, Sausage
Rolls, Stuffed Mushrooms and Shrimp Appetizers were served on continually
replenished trays, offered to the guests by William's walk-about crew.
For refreshment, there was a delicious sweet fruited punch for the children...and
it might appear to the onlooker, as though the barrels of ciders, and ginger wines
for the adults were bottomless, because they were! The fermented brews
flowed like the falls, keeping everyone quenched, and very, very gay!
What a lovely time the wedding guests enjoyed! They were all universally
stoked over Catherine and Vincent's wedding celebration. Truly...how could
they not be? Here they were...an exclusive few, who have been embraced by
the tunnel community, invited to share this enchantingly romantic event with
them.
And needless to say, every aspect thus far, has fulfilled all of the wedding
couple's expectations. It was clear Catherine, and Vincent were having the time
of their lives. Both imparted a graceful ease, as they walked about, with her arm
elegantly entwined with his. Seeming as if they have been a couple forever, the
way they were so comfortable together, unaware, or perhaps, merely unmindful
of all the guests adoring gazes, and admiring comments. At times, they
whispered and chatted to one another, sharing smiles and laughter, as if no one
else even existed.
And it was mentioned a hundred times over by the beguiled observers, how they
believed Catherine...the brand new bride...never left her husband's side! There
she was, clinging to his every word, as they walked around the festive Great
Hall. And it was true...she had not left him this night, not even for a moment!
After all this was their moment in time, a moment they had both dreamed of,
for what seemed like an eternity, beginning their eternal life together as a
married couple. She was his chosen princess, and he was her princely hero, who
enthralled her so, with his warm welcoming graciousness, as he spoke to each of
their joyful guests. It was as if this day, brought a freshness to every aspect of
their relationship, even hearing stories repeated a few times over did not bore
Catherine. She reacted to them anew with each guest, never growing weary.
Catherine was definitely having a wonderful time, and the fact Vincent WAS
enjoying himself too, brought much relief to her. Earlier that morning as she
soaked in her bubble bath, she tried to envision how Vincent would handle all
the attention that would be thrown at him this day. So as the day played out,
she could not have been more pleased at his pleasant hosting manner.
When it was time to dine, everyone was seated, and Catherine and Vincent,
were given their places of honor, at the front of the table. Along side them, sat
Father, Mary and Peter. Around them, was seating for Devin, Mouse, Jennifer,
Ronald, Pascal, Rebecca, and Lisa. The next line of seating was for, Samantha,
Laura, Brooke, Jamie, Kanin, Olivia, Kipper, next a free for all the rest of the
wedding guests.
The Second Course, was Wild Rice and Carrot Soup, and then a nice Cheddar
Broccoli Salad was presented as the Third. The next course was served Buffet
style. There was Asparagus and Lemon Butter Crumb garnish, Sweet Carrots,
slices of Beef Rib Roast, along with Oven Roasted Potatoes, served with an
assortment of freshly baked breads and Dinner Rolls. William additionally
delighted everyone with a sweet delectable embellishment...Chocolate Dipped
Strawberries!
The wedding feast was delicious, and prepared impeccably by William!
Everyone was impressed by the meal, and Lisa told Samantha, that she had
never tasted anything finer...not even in the most fanciest of restaurants in all of
France!
Then a silence fell over the Great Hall, as Pascal stood to make the traditional
Wedding Toast by the Best Man. In wonderment, he said, "Wow! Vincent is
really married! As you all know, I grew up with this guy...and I gotta say that I
have seen a big change in him ever since he met Catherine. Yes a big
change...he combs his hair more often now!"
Everyone laughed, and Vincent gave Pascal a look, as if to say, "Watch it now!"
Catherine smiled up at Vincent as she took in his comedic reaction, seeming to
be right at home as the straight guy.
Nodding as his own smile faded, Pascal continued, "Seriously though...a
calm...err, rather, a peacefulness has settled over my friend, like I have never
seen in him before. And it is all because of Catherine...and although I didn't
know her before, she sure has had her struggles adjusting to life here. But she is
coming along just great and working very hard to learn the ropes, or should I
say the pipes, as to not have any more false alarms!"
Catherine turned red, as everyone began laughing. They were all too aware of
all the mistakes she had been making with the pipe messaging codes.
Then to everyone's surprise and amusement, Catherine clanged out a code on
her champagne glass, saying, "T-H-A-N-K-S T-O Y-O-U P-A-S-C-A-L!"
To which Pascal proudly responded, "See what I mean? Catherine really HAS
improved! That was a perfect execution of our code pattern, and Catherine you
are most welcome."
He then shared a smile with her, before raising his glass, and replied, "To
Vincent and Catherine. We all wish you both a long happy, healthy life together."
The hall was filled with affirming cheers, and Vincent and Catherine thanked
Pascal for his kind words.
Next, Peter stood. And with tears in his eyes, said, "I had not planned on
speaking, I have nothing written down or planned, but what the heck, Pascal
you inspired me! Ahem, Where do I begin? Well, I suppose I will begin at the
began! I delivered Catherine, helped bring her into this world...well not this
world here below...she had to fulfill her own destiny and find this place for
herself. But I was not only her doctor, but a friend of her Family's as well. And
so I was there to see Cathy grow into the beautiful person she is now. However
alas, after Vincent rescued and saved her, she then chose to bravely follow her
heart, in order to share her life with Vincent. This is her home now, her future
lies here. And I could not be more pleased for her. And Vincent, well I have
known him all of his life too. What an incredible spirit he has, I have watched
him grow up into the remarkable man he is, and what can I say...I love him like
a son, and Catherine...I love her as a daughter. I have been lucky enough, to
watch these two exceptional people grow up in their perspective worlds, leading
so very different lives, and still they managed to find one another. Hey, and
with no meddling on my part what-so-ever either! How do you like that?"
Everyone laughed, and as they quieted down, Peter continued, "So today as I
walked Cathy down the aisle, in place of my beloved friend, Charles...I
wondered how I could be so fortunate to have this sweet girl look to me as a
stand in for her Dad...such a great man. But she did...and I could not have felt
more honored. So on behalf of Charles, I gave my consent and approval to
Catherine and Vincent today. Cuz I know if Charles could have known Vincent,
he would have been proud to place his daughter's hand in his as well. There is
no finer man, than him."
Shyly Vincent looked down. His heart was filled with love, affection and
gratitude to Peter for saying such nice things about him. Peter then added, "I
love you both...and I toast you."
Catherine wiped the tears away that had fallen down her cheeks. She loved
Peter so, and loved what he had said about Charles approving of Vincent. She
knew in her heart he was right. So together, they honored Peter, by each giving
him a heart felt embrace, and they then raised their glasses to him.
After everyone else also toasted Peter, it then when Jennifer stood up, looked at
the wedding couple, and in an awing fashion said, "Look at you guys! A real life
love story! Complete with a happy ending too. And look at all you both get in
the bargain! Vincent...you get the most wonderful person in the whole world as
your wife...and Cathy you get Vincent...a true hero if ever I saw one! And I
should know, as he came to my rescue once or twice! AND last but not
least...you get Pops...err Father as your brand new DAD to stand with Peter!
How lucky can you get? I salute and love you both! Cheers!"
Jacob laughed aloud, and Catherine couldn't let the moment pass, without
acknowledging her joy, that indeed, Jacob was now her new father-in-law. So
she hammed it up a little as she went over to him and kissed him on the cheek,
causing Jacob to nearly melt right there!
He loved that Catherine openly expressed her affection for him, and the crowd
loved it too! Most of them were aware of the rough going there was between
Catherine and Jacob in the beginning. And so, her sweet daughterly kiss she
bestowed to his cheek, was proof they had evolved into the relationship they
now have.
Lovingly in response, he cupped her hand in his, and fondly smiled at her before
she took her seat again next to her husband.
Mary whispered to Jacob, "Oh my! How lovely."
She then blew her nose, and re-adjusted her hankie to dab at the tears in the
corner of her eyes. After one final snuffle, she inquisitively, asked, "Jacob...will
you be toasting the wedding couple?"
Jacob shakily smiled and thoughtfully said, "Yes, I should like to."
He then stood, and it wasn't long until everyone's attention was drawn to him,
and waited to hear what he would present as a toast to his son and new bride.
And so Jacob warmly said, "I believe I am still blushing from the kind attention I
received from my new daughter-in-law. However I shall gather my composure
and continue on....I have it all written down right here...unlike Peter, I am
prepared!"
He then shot Peter a superior look, causing everyone to chuckle at the running
gag between these two men, as Peter waved him off.
With affection, Jacob replied, "If I tug at you a bit Peter, it is only because I am
a bit envious of your standing with both of these children."
Meantime, all the while, Devin sat spellbound, as he noticed the warmth in
which his Father seemed to relate to everyone, and was mutually treated in
return. Could it be he had misjudged his 'ole man all these years?
Jacob then took a second or two, to attain the proper frame of mind before he
began his heart felt words. He then began, "Ahem...Today I am reminded of the
old song called "Turn around". It speaks of a parent, who observes their child
growing up, seemingly in the time it takes one to turn around. After each turn,
the child reaches a new phase of life, until finally they are grown, leading a life
of their own. Such is the place I find myself in today. Vincent...it seems as if
you were just that little boy of one, who cried when Lou tried to cut your hair
for the first time...well obviously, I catered to you and did not force the issue..."
Everyone laughed, and Vincent bashfully looked downward as Catherine
squeezed his hand, loving the story Father was telling.
Jacob then continued, "How could I? You looked at me with those eyes
brimming with tears, asking Father...please ask Lou to put the shears away.
And...well I did! Then as you grew...and your brilliance became apparent to us
all, you wanted to know about everything. I shant forget when both you and
Pascal became interested in robots. You both had to know everything about
robots! Well, Pascal's father, kindly read to you boys all he could find out about
them. The next thing I know, you're telling me about the inner workings of
robots! You were only three or four mind you, and you looked at me very
seriously, and informed me, "Robots are made Father...not borne." Oh my! I
can still see that serious look upon your face as you informed me, that Robots
are made...not borne! Priceless!"
Pascal laughed, as he humbly proclaimed to everyone, that it was all true, while
Devin lowered his eyes as his Father spoke so proudly about his youngest son.
Devin couldn't help but wonder what Jacob would be saying about HIM, if it
were HIS wedding day. Would he be as proud of him? Although Devin loved
his brother very much, it all did make him sad, thinking about those past
turbulent days before he left the tunnels for good.
Rebecca sitting next to Devin, noticed the pall that came over him, and warmly
whispered his name, as she patted his hand. For she knew the whole history of
the Wells family dysfunction back then, all too well, and could understand
Devin's mixed feelings.
With gratitude, he looked back at her, and covered up his melancholy, as he
raised his head to listen, as Jacob continued, "Well, I suppose I could go on
forever talking about how clever Vincent was as a boy...well...my point being
is...that you were knowledgeable in all areas! Learned in the arts, history,
mathematics, physics...well in ALL things! You caused us all to marvel at your
brilliance. And just like as in those days past, when you made me so proud to be
your Father, I am basking in pride today. As I look at you, and at lovely
Catherine, who you have chosen to be your wife...well I am only too eager to
see what happiness the future shall bring to you, as you begin a life together.
However, I am getting on in years, and I pray God will be kind, and allow me to
be an observer, at least for a while..."
Sadly Vincent inserted, "Father...stop that kind of talk! Of course you will be
around not merely as an observer...but to share in our life as well."
Devin felt the loving chemistry between his Father and brother. Realizing how
close they were, and of how much they needed each other, in contrast to
himself...who really didn't need anyone! Nor...did anyone need him! He had
managed to slip in and out of his family's lives so whimsically through the years,
that he felt he really didn't matter much to anyone, not here, or anywhere.
So, since he felt so inconsequential, he reacted typically, and true to "Devin"
form, discreetly poising himself to leave. However, just as he was about to get
up, Jacob reached out, and put his hand on Devin's shoulder.
Instinctively, Jacob sensed Devin felt out of place, so he pushed his own
Fatherly frustrations aside, to put him at ease, and to express his joy, that his
prodigal son was home. At the same time, wanting Devin to realize...it was not
always "All" about HIM! Today was Vincent's day...and they have a lifetime to
work on their broken ties...IF he stayed long enough to do so.
Devin looked up at his Father...and responded in kind with a pleading thankful
smile, seeming to request forgiveness for a life time of turmoil he had caused
him by his absence. And thanking him for stopping him from once again acting
impulsively. Devin realized how his leaving would have been upsetting to
Vincent.
Jacob shared a monumental moment with Devin, and with a slow blink of his
eyes, and an agreeable nod, Jacob then continued with his speech, and replied to
Vincent, while including a message to Devin, "None of us know how long we
have on this earth...So if you all will permit an old man the indulgence of
preaching a little bit on my son's wedding day, then I shall. I bid every one of
you to live your lives to the fullest, yet be kind to those you love. We must live
each day as if it were our last, while following our dreams according to the
Golden Rule. And stop long enough along the way, to establish connections that
cannot be severed by another man. If you do these things...then you will have a
full rich life. Understand...I am not on a soap box. I have not always managed
to do these things in my own life. However, I have observed these virtues in
others...right here...through Vincent and Catherine. You are a couple, who has
taught us much while touching our hearts with your obvious love and devotion
for each other but not at the exclusion of everyone else. And for all of us that
are a part of your lives...we thank you. I can tell you it has been a time
watching your relationship grow. A real life's lesson. So in conclusion I pray
your love shall gain strength through the years ahead, and continue being a
beacon for us all to follow."
Everyone toasted them, and Vincent stood to embrace his Father. It was an
emotional moment, because today, Vincent was making a life of his own. He
was no longer singularly Jacob's son, but he was now Catherine's husband too.
Vincent and Jacob, then pivoted a bit to face Devin. A moment passed, before
he realized they wished to include him, united as a family again. Shakily, he
stood, and was gleefully welcomed into a joint embrace with his Father and
brother. The community was touched and moved right along with these three
souls that have healed and united in a loving understanding, and forgiveness.
A nervous laughter soon erupted between them, acting as a segue for them to
lighten the mood and get back on track. Jacob cleared the emotion from his
voice, to warmly say, "Ahem...Catherine please join us...after all you are a
Wells now, and it appears we are having a reunion of sorts!"
Catherine happily joined her husband's family, and an applause broke out
through the hall as they formed a group hug.
Mary then leaned over to Peter and tearfully said, "Doesn't it seem that
Weddings tend to bring people together?"
Just as Peter was about to agree with her, she quickly interrupted him and said,
"Oh my, according to my list here, it is time to cut the cake!"
To be continued
Chapter Forty-Six
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