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“Married at First Sight” follows singles yearning for a life-long partnership as they agree to a provocative proposal: getting legally married to a stranger the moment they first meet. Over 30,000 candidates nationwide have applied to be married at first sight. In our first season, singles from the Charlotte area are matched by a team of relationship experts. Join us every other Wednesday to watch their journeys.

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

It Would Be So Nice...

We’re going whitewater rafting. The experts have assigned us this as a “trust” exercise. I’m good with that. I already trust her with my life.

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[The camera shows Quinn and Puck strapping into their life vests and helmets. Puck turns and smiles at Quinn as the instructor speaks.]

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I’m a little nervous about white water rafting. More than the ziplining, just because I worry about hitting some rocks, but on the other side of that, I think I’ll enjoy this more because I’m much more confident in my swimming than my flying through the air. *laughs*

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[Quinn sidles up beside Puck as the instructor is now setting the raft in the water. She nudges her]

Quinn: You gonna make sure I don’t fall in and drown? *smirks*

Puck: *chuckles* Yeah, I’ll just wrap my arms around you so that you don’t fall. Then who’s gonna steer the raft?

Quinn: *laughs* We’ll be holding each other as the raft goes over a waterfall. Classic cartoon.

Puck: *pokes Quinn in the cheek, shaking her head as she grins* Everyone loves a good Looney Tunes bit.

Quinn: *laughs more and grabs Puck’s finger* We’re gonna nail it.

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[Quinn and Puck are hitting the water hard in their raft, each holding a paddle as the instructor sits on the back of the raft with a paddle. Quinn shrieks and laughs, even as they hit a wave hard and almost capsize]

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It was crazy, like… really crazy, but super fun, and I just kept hoping that we would not flip over.

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[Puck and Quinn step back out of the raft, hair plastered to their necks and faces.]

Puck: That was so fun!

Quinn: *laughs and nods* I feel amazing. Like totally exhilarated. *smiles at Puck and then glances her over. Licks her lips and glances away*

Puck: *smiles back at Quinn before walking over and gripping her hips so that she can kiss her. Leans in and kisses her softly*

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I really like kissing her….

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Tonight, we’ve gone out to dinner, which has made me really happy because I get to dress up a little instead of the usual outdoor wear of this honeymoon.

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[Quinn is sitting across from Puck at a small, private table. They are both halfway through dinner. Quinn picks up her wine and sips before setting the glass down]

Quinn: This has been a really great night. You look so beautiful by candlelight. *smiles*

Puck: *smiles brightly* Yeah? So do you. *grabs her draft and takes a sip* So how are you feeling...you know, about all of this and being with a woman? You weren't with any before you got married the first time, right?

Quinn: *shakes head a little* No, I wasn’t with anyone. I’ve… only been with my ex, even before we got married, I never was with anyone. And then when we were separated, I didn’t pursue anything, so it’s just been him. *pauses* And now you. *licks lips and picks up wine glass*

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Yes, that is right. We consummated the marriage. A lot.

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Puck: *nods, looking at Quinn over the rim of her glass* Well, mazel, I’m honored to be the first woman. *chuckles* How did you figure the whole you liked women thing?

Quinn: *smiles, but it fades slightly* Well, um… *debates words* When, um… I had a miscarriage. I was four months along and we lost the baby and Ni--my ex, he sort of just… pulled away. I was a wreck, he acted like it didn’t bother him, and he just… didn’t want to deal with me. And I became close with a friend of mine. She was there for me, she listened to me, and I started to realize that my care for her wasn’t… It was romantic. It turned into that. I told her all of this one day and we talked about my feelings, and she said she had them too, but I… I mean, I couldn’t be with her, I was married. So, you know, I stayed married. It happened again later in my marriage too, but again, I didn’t… pursue that. I just started to realize more and more how attracted to women I was. But I tried to make my marriage work because we were bound together, we took an oath, but… it wasn’t in the cards. But I think he checked out a long time ago. *picks up wine and takes a long drink*

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Quinn being married before doesn’t both me at all, but this is heavy. She’s so incredibly strong because I’ve met her family. I can’t imagine they took this well. I’m just really...I can’t say that I’d be strong enough to deal with all of that and want to try to make a new marriage work.

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Puck: *nods in sympathy, giving her an understanding look* I’m sorry you had to go through all of that. It’s...wow a miscarriage? I’m just not sure how I’d deal with that, and you did it alone. I’m really sorry you didn’t have anyone there with you except your friend. And it’s a good thing you figured it out instead of being trapped in a marriage that you weren’t happy in. Did you guys ever...try to have another baby?

Quinn: *offers a tight smile* Thanks, it… It was hard and it sort of… alienated me from my faith. It was just… difficult all around, but I’m… I’ve healed, in some ways, since then, it’s not as hard, but it really was at the time. *nods, looks away from Puck* Yes. We did. But… we weren’t having sex often so we didn’t get pregnant again. And we didn’t even start trying until at least a year had passed since we lost the baby, but… *looks back up at Puck* I know you have two daughters, but… would you consider having another baby? I mean, with me, I’d want to have a baby. Not right now. Just… in the future.

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If she doesn’t want another baby, it might be a dealbreaker. I mean, I will love being a stepmother to Hannah and Iva, but... I’ll never get to experience having the baby, toddler, and preschool years.

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Puck: *hesitates, looking at Quinn for a long moment* Well...I mean, we’ve only been married for a few days, and I’ve honestly never thought about having other children. I didn’t even think I’d ever get married, but...this is a new life for both of us, and I think that I’d be open to having another baby. I mean, I don’t know if I want to have another baby, but I’m definitely open to you having one.

Quinn: No, yeah, I didn’t mean tomorrow, I mean in the future, far future. Just to know you’re open to it because if not… that would’ve been an issue. And I want to have the baby. As long as it takes and… nothing happens. *takes in a shaky breath and picks up wine glass, finishing it*

Puck: *nods again* I’m open to it. I mean a part of me is worried because I haven’t been around a tiny baby in ten years. It could be...nice to have one that is planned, and I’d be there for whatever support you’d need.

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Having another baby wasn’t ever really in the cards for me. I haven’t ever thought about having other children, and if you’d asked me a week ago, I would’ve said no. But I’m definitely open to the idea of more. Quinn hasn’t gotten to experience being a mom, and I know I have children, but it’s not gonna be the same thing. I would never deny her that. Plus, a baby could be fun.

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Quinn: *grins at Puck* Thank you. Like I said, I don’t want to, like, get pregnant tomorrow, but just knowing that it’s there for us, whenever we decide to try… *tears up and quickly tries to blink them away* It means a lot to me.

Puck: *reaches across the table to take Quinn’s hands into her own, smiling* Well you’re my wife, and that means a lot to me. I think that this is a really great match, and that we’re going to have a really great marriage.

Quinn: *holds Puck’s hands and smiles back at her, nods* Yeah, I think we really will.

[Scene opens: It’s just before dusk. Sam and Mercedes are standing on the pier with their group.  A lines of blue boats are tied in row just at the water’s edge.  Sam has his arm around Mercedes waist as the chat, smiling at each other.]

Sam: I’ve been waiting to do this all day.  This is going to be awesome.  The water glows because of some kind of bioluminescent algae, from what I’ve heard it can be a very romantic and out of body experience.  

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I’m a little worried about Mercedes.  She been quite the trooper all day, but this is kayaking, and at night no less. I hope it’s just the fear of the unknown that has her a little shaky.  Once we get out on the water she’ll be fine.  At least that’s what I’m hoping.  

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Mercy: *walking towards the boat and instructor, she takes a breath before grabbing the life jacket she was offered,* Okay full disclosure, you may hear a lot of screaming on my end… it in no way reflects my actual character…

Ben: *Smiles* I’m going to take good care of you both.  Hi, my name is Ben.  There is nothing need to be nervous about, the water is generally calm. Now we’re going to go over some safety procedures.

Sam:  *Walks up to the right of Mercedes, and reaches for her hand.* It’s going to be fun.  Nothing to worry about. *Rubs her hand*

Mercy: *nods* I trust you. So lets do this. *looks at the small boat* how do I get in the thing…the thingy or whatnot?

Sam: I’ll get in first. *He easily gets into the boat. Then ushers Mercedes forward.*  

Mercy: *watches Sam then moved towards the boat slowly. She enters the boat and sits* That wasn’t so bad…so what is next?

Ben: Okay we’re going to go slow.  What you have to remember is your arms and hips have to work independently of each over but in harmony.  This keeps the boat level. Second use your entire upper body when paddling.*Demonstrates what he means.* Last Mercedes pay attention to the rhythm Sam sets and try to match it.  I’ll assume this is your honeymoon?

Sam: *nods as Ben speaks*  Yes it is.

Ben:  Wonderful this will be fun for you guys, you’ll have to work together.

Mercy: *grabs the oar motioning like Ben and Sam as she watched them, then looked at Ben* This is my first time actually doing anything like this

Ben: Well you look good so far so just keep that up. Now we are going to practice a bit right here, before we hit the open water.

[Sam uses the double sided oar to move them away for the bank a little.  Then turns them in a circle.  Following suit Mercy does the same thing and finds them actually moving forward a little.]

Mercy:  Look at us. Teamwork right?

Sam: Yep, but can you keep up.

[Quickly reversing his movement Sam turns the boat to the opposite side. Following suit, Mercedes did as Sam did. Allowing herself to really get into the movements.]

Mercy: Oh I can keep up! Quick question, what happens to the person who….I dunno accidentally fall off of the boat?

Sam: That’s any easy answer.  They either swim or get back in the boat.  Don’t worry we are going to take it really easy.  If you didn’t fall out just now, then you can handle this. Okay?

Mercy: Okay, I get it. I think we are ready!

Ben:  You guys look great.  Let’s move out.  

Mercy:*smiles brightly* We look good in this boat or as a couple? *she joked still paddling *

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[Sam angled towards the darkening horizon, back pedaling a little he waits until Ben is head of them, then follows him out into the open water. The couple is shown paddling in perfect time with each other, smiling. Already a faint glow can be seen on the water’s surface.]

Mercy: So it has become clear to me, that being married to Sam, means my life is going to be full of adventure. Being out here on this boat, in this water doing something I have never done before is such an amazing feeling, and having someone like Sam with me, pushing me to do new things, its not as scary as I thought it would be. And as I paddled in time with him, we worked together to get where we needed to go it just gave me another reason to believe that this marriage, though filled with two very different people, who have so much in common but also a lot that isn’t compatible at all, can go the distance if we both work in sync. Its beautiful.

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This is our last evening here.  We’ve decided to take the moonlight cruise.  Mercedes and I have such a strong connection already, and we’ve had such a wonderful time making memories.  What worries me is what will happen once the spell of being alone here is broken. Tomorrow it’s back to the real world.  So taking this moment, of just togetherness and peace is important for us.  No we haven’t consummated our marriage yet, but our mutual attraction is strong.  I’m sure we will, sooner rather than later.

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[Scene opens with Mercedes and Sam standing by the railing of the ship.  The moon is huge and it’s reflection is sparkling on the water.  Mercedes arms are around Sam’s neck, he is rubbing her back gently as they kiss passionately under the stars. Scene fades]

Sam:  *sits across the table from Mercedes.* You look lovely tonight did I mention that?

Mercy: *smiles brightly with a blush* You have a few times…though your face when you saw me said it all. And you look handsome as well. *sighs heavily* I am so sad we have to leave…This has been one of the best vacations of my life.

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Sam is one of those guys you meet, and wonder how you ever survived before them. I didn’t feel like I married a stranger this trip, I felt like I was here with someone I care about. And yes I have started to care about him, I can see myself in the future, maybe even falling for him… I haven’t told Sam I’m a virgin yet, and things are getting to the point where you just know its gonna happen…so I guess I really need to tell him soon…

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Sam: Get used to it, I’m going to say it a few more times before the night is over.  I couldn’t help it everything was on display so nicely. *Winks at her* I know, it’s gorgeous here. I’m honored I got to be a part of the greatest vacation of your life. So tell me.  Is there anything that concerns you about returning home tomorrow?

Mercy: Well I mean I aim to please, and I know how much you like to look. *she teased* I guess actually being man and wife for real. The wedding, the honeymoon, it all feels like a dream.

Sam: *cuts his steak* Okay? In what way do you mean us being real?  The I do’s made us real.

Mercy:  Well we have to deal with real life. Trying to make our lives work together, moving into the house… its just here we didn’t have to worry about any of that.

Sam: Oh, you mean like dealing with schedule and household duties that kind of thing? I can see that.  I’m worried about the move honestly.  My sister is inheriting my house, I never quite finished it.

Mercy: *takes a sip of her water* Yeah I feel like we might need to organize and all that stuff. So you have your own home? Are you worried because you don’t want to move or because your home isn’t done?

Sam:  So, all you’re worried about is us putting the house together? No concerns about me, personally? Wow, am I that awesome? *Flashes a confident smile*  A bit of both.  It’s sort of my baby. I’ve been working on it for 2 years now.

Mercy: We have been living together for a few days now and I think we know each other well enough to make things more comfortable when we leave here. But you are awesome. *nods* That is amazing. Have you talked to them about maybe you keeping your house?

Sam: *shrugs, chewing*  Maybe it’s like you say, a dream and when we get home, things will change.  I mean that’s entirely possible, what’s gonna happen when we stop showing each other the best of ourselves.  I know you’re a good woman but… *eats another bite of food, not quite looking at Mercedes.* No one is perfect.  I am, my sister is going to live there.

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It worries me.  You know this is all very new.  But life is where marriages fail.  And who knows what that stress will do to our fragile bond.  I’m confident, but there is still that little hint of worry.  

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Mercy: I am just… I have never lived with a man before, you know other than my brothers. You make me nervous because this has been working… its been working great so far and I am just trying not to think about it. Trying not to worry about it tonight. *swallows* I mean for you to live there but its great you are giving it to your sister.

Sam: *reaches over the table to take her hand.*  I understand, I think it’s part of the reason we were matched.  We should get along.  We’re both good people and I’m happy you’ve put so much trust in me.  I don’t know, I guess I’m the one freaking out now.  *squeezes Mercedes hand.* It’s in the family, that’s enough.  

Mercy: *looks up at Sam* Having faith in people has proven to be a blessing and a curse in my life, but its who I am. I trust you until I get a reason not too. And you… I can honestly say that when I thought about this process. About getting married to a stranger, to a man who I had no idea who he wasn’t I wasn’t thinking I would get a guy like you. One who just… *stops talking as she shakes her head* gets me. Gets that I am not like most girls, and that I am 1000 percent fine with that. And I know that this is a weird thing to say to your husband, but I really like you. So don’t freak out, don’t worry about what will happen, we both are so much alike in some ways but completely different in other, we just have to find a way to make it work and I believe we can. Squeezes his hand back* I wish there was something I could do or say to make it better, because if I had to give up my bakery for us I would feel some sort of way too.

Sam: Oh, so you like me.  *Rises to his feet with a sly grin. Moves to Mercedes side of the table and pecks her on the lips.* You really like me. *Kisses her again more fully.  Pulling back he goes back to his seat.*  No, don’t feel that way.  You’ve done more than enough.  Really.  I couldn’t ask for anything more. *Laughs*  But, it’s my house, not my business.  So it’s okay.  My sister promises I can visit.  As long as I call first. *takes another bit of food.*

Mercy: *looks surprised at the kiss, smiles widely as he sits back down*  I take it from those kisses you really like me too? *looks down to her Chicken Alfredo and nods* I haven’t really done anything though… and I look at the bakery as my baby so I understand what you mean, and while its great your sister will have it, Its something you put your heart and soul into, so its okay to be upset about it.

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Going home, after such an amazing time is scary, we are moving in together, we are learning more things about each other, and there is a chance we won’t mesh well back home.

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Sam: You have been amazing and so brave.  Yes, but my sister knows I’ll hurt her if something bad happens to my house.  *Looks off for a second, then laughs*  She’s going to do something to spite me….

Mercy: *frowns looking down at her food.* I guess its easy to be brave here, and if she knows how much you love that house I think she would do her best to keep it the way it is.

Sam: What’s that look for?  You can be brave where and when ever you choose. You did it to marry me.  *laughs*  You don’t know my sister that well.  She’s a hellraiser when she wants to be.  

Mercy: Its nothing really, and I know you are right but its different. I married you because I truly believed I was being matched up with someone who could potentially be my soul mate. Being brave kayaking or getting in the water is me facing a fear I have had for a long time. *laughs* Yeah I get that vibe from her lol

Sam: *sets his fork and knife down, then wipes his mouth with a cloth napkin.*  How are they different? The level of fear, and ridicule you faced, agreeing to do something like this is immense. Maybe it’s not as long standing as your fear of water, but it’s still took a great deal of courage. Courage you demonstrated again by getting into that boat.  You’ve done more than most would dare to try in the last few days and I’m not going to let you down play any of it.  

Mercy: *chews her bottom lip* I guess they aren’t that different. I have to say though it was really great having you beside me the entire time. Pushing me and letting me find my own time to do it. You are really great.

Sam: Thanks cupcake,  *picks up his knife and fork*  but never forget, you’d already learned to swim.  *Flashes a huge smile.*

Mercy: I may know how to swim but not in anywhere but a small pool so it was a big deal to me… We have so much in common but when it comes to being adventurous you have got me beat.

Sam: *Smiles* I don’t know about that, but if you say so. I can’t believe we’ve been here all this time and we haven’t dance together.

Mercy: *smiles* That is so  true. *stand putting her napkin down* Would you care to dance Mr. Evans?

Sam: * a feigned surprised look on his face*  Why, yes, Mrs. Evans I would love to dance. *Put his utensils down, and stands taking Mercedes hand.*

Mercy: *walks with Sam to the middle of the dance floor.* We haven’t dance since our wedding, so I am a bit rusty.

Sam: *Arms going around her waist* I am sure there is nothing rusty about your move. *starts a simple two step, to the music being played by the band.*

Mercy: *wraps her arms around his neck* Thank you also for being a Gentleman

Sam: *chuckles, whispers in her ear*  For now…

Mercy:  *shivers* Really now?

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Oh My God I am in so much trouble.

[Jesse and Kitty are shown walking into Cafe Alcazar]

Kitty: This place is beautiful. I’m a little bit in awe of the architecture.

Jesse: It's definitely beautiful, almost as exquisite as you. *smiles over at her* I have to admit, I'm not usually this...attracted to the women I've been with so quickly. Not that they aren't beautiful women, but usually there's a part of their personalities I don't care for or we have very little in common. I find myself riveted by you on a near constant basis.

Kitty: *blushes* You flatter me way too much. But I have to admit that I’m feeling the same way. I think we just connected really easily, and that doesn’t really happen too often for me. It usually takes me awhile to warm up to people, but you’re different.

Jesse: We do have far more in common than I usually have with anyone. I think maybe that was part of the match. We're a bit more reserved when it comes to others. Our families were surprisingly similar, though I'm not as close to my brother as you are to yours. I'm closer to his son, Andrew, who was my best man at our wedding. My brother was in his twenties and married when I was born. Were you all close growing up? I enjoyed being essentially an only child, but there were times I wished I was closer in age to my siblings.

Kitty: My sister and I have never really been close. Our six year age difference might as well have been the same as the age difference between you and your siblings. I was the maid of honor at her wedding, but I think it was more for show than anything else. My brother and I have always been close though. Of course, he was the typical annoying older brother growing up, but he’s always had my back, and I’ve always had his. Other than Rachel, he’s probably my best friend. We were kind of our own secret club separate from Heather. Our relationship with her got better as we got older, but I still like to think it’s us against her most of the time.

Jesse: My siblings have strained relationships with our parents and that made it nearly impossible for us to be close. My brother struggled with addiction for a long time. My sister was anorexic. My parents kind of saw me as the chance to do things better. I used to think my brother hated me. I just think it was hard for him to see my parents dote on me when they didn't have that same relationship with him. It did get better, especially after Andrew was born, and we were so close. It just isn't quite where I wish it would be.

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My siblings grew up with a father who worked too many hours and a mother who wasn't very happy. They fought constantly, and I think it was really tough on James and Amy. When my brother began getting heavy into drugs, and my sister was sick, it helped my parents through their troubles, but to the detriment of those relationships. I never forget how fortunate I was that they were happy and attentive, but I wish things could be fixed with my brother and sister.

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Kitty: That couldn’t have been easy for anyone involved. The most difficult thing I think my family ever had to deal with was when my sister started dating a guy who offered eleven year old me a pot brownie just to piss off our parents, so I can’t imagine what any of that must have been like for you guys. *reaches across the table and places her hand on his* I’m really glad you shared that with me though. I’m glad that you can open up to me already.

Jesse: *looks down at their hands* I’m happy that you can empathize. My family isn’t perfect, but they mean a lot to me. Now you’re a part of that, and I want you to know about it all.

Kitty: And I do want to know about it. Eventually, I hope we’ll know everything about each other.

Jesse: I’d saw we’re off to a good start. Now, enough with the heavy stuff. Let’s talk about something fun like politics or religion. *chuckles*

Kitty: *laughs* Or we could go as light as possible and play twenty questions again with the most uncontroversial questions possible.

Jesse: Are you afraid we won’t disagree? *laughs again* Okay, okay, how about you ask me questions now?

Kitty: It’s more that I don’t want to get into a heated political debate on my honeymoon. Even if we agree completely, it’s a boring subject. Important, but very boring. *smiles* Alright, what would you say is your favorite childhood memory?

Jesse: *tilts his head for a moment* Um...I’d have to say it was getting to be the Nutcracker prince in the Nutcracker. I even had to take a ballet class, but I got to kiss the Clara. It was my first kiss. I was eleven. What about you?

Kitty: You were the nutcracker? That’s kind of incredibly adorable. Mine makes my family sound like the stereotype of rich, white people, but if the shoe fits. We went to England the summer that I was eight years old, and I got to hang out by the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Gardens for a bit. Forever my favorite vacation.

Jesse: See? I told you you were adorable. *grins at Kitty* There’s nothing wrong with being wealthy. I have been to England a few times myself. Another thing we have in common.

Kitty: I know there’s nothing wrong with it. I just feel weird talking about growing up rich since it’s not the case for most of the teens I work with on a daily basis. But I loved the little luxuries and trips that my dad’s hard work gave us. So, you’ve been to England, too? Then what’s your dream vacation spot that you’ve never been to before?

Jesse: I have. I think I’d want to go to Alaska or Bali...I hear Alaska is absolutely beautiful as is Bali. We should put them on a list of vacation spots. Do you have any dream vacations?

Kitty: Absolutely. I actually really want to go to Ireland. Partially because I’ve never been, and it’s incredibly beautiful there, and partially because they filmed part of the Princess Bride there, so I’d love to visit the Cliffs of Moher.

Jesse: I’m sensing a theme here. You do really have a thing about fairy tales.

Kitty: It’s not that I’m necessarily huge on fairy tales. It’s more of a love of storytelling than anything else. It just manifested itself in all of the stories that shaped my way of thinking as I grew up.

Jesse: Then I think we should add Myrtle Beach to the places we’re going to visit. I know the perfect place to take you.

Kitty: Do I get to know what that place is now, or do I have to wait for that vacation to find out?

Jesse: I think it would be a lot better if I just surprise you.

Kitty: I guess I’ll just have to wait patiently then.

Jesse: I guess you will. *smiles over at her*

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So, our last big stop on the honeymoon is the St Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum keeping in line with the nautical theme we seemed to have stumbled into. I’m not sure if this will be as fun as the pirate museum was, but I’m having so much fun just spending time with Jesse and getting to know him better that I can’t see how this wouldn’t be great.

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Kitty: I read that this place does a ghost tour after dark, and I, for one, am very glad that we decided to come here during the day.

Jesse: *looks over at Kitty as he takes her hand*  No? Are you sure you wouldn’t want to go? I promise not to let a ghost get you.

Kitty: I would be a wreck. *squeezes his hand* I love a good horror movie, but I would not do well in any kind of real life horror situation. Even with you to protect me.

Jesse: I’m not a fan of horror really. It was never my thing, but I will watch a horror movie if the premise is interesting enough.

Kitty: My brother got me hooked on them when we were in high school. Most of them are cheesy and ridiculous, but I’ve found that the ones starring Patrick Wilson are generally the best and most terrifying.

Jesse: You’ll have to introduce me to one when we’re home. Speaking of which, are you ready to get back to reality?

Kitty: If by reality you mean starting to experience what married life will really be like, then absolutely yes. Even though it would be nice to stay down here forever.

Jesse: I'm looking forward to coming home to home cooked meals and good conversation with my beautiful wife.

Kitty: And I’m looking forward to exciting nights out and relaxing nights in with my handsome husband.

[the scene changes to a montage of them exploring the lighthouse and museum, holding hands and chatting.]

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This week has been like a dream. I feel like I've found a woman I could potentially fall in love with. We haven't done anything other that kiss, but those kisses have held a promise of a good life.

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I haven’t felt like this about someone in a really long time. There’s something about the connection I have with Jesse that makes me really hopeful for the future. I think I got really lucky in this experiment, and I can’t wait to see what happens with us next.

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Just One Day Out Of Life...

So today we’re going to be doing a zipline canopy tour and whitewater rafting. I know what ziplining is, but I’ve never been interested in doing it. And whitewater rafting seems dangerous. But I think they both could be fun. Besides, I get to spend time with Puck and that’s always worth it.

-----

[Puck and Quinn are walking with the guide to the start of the ropes course in the woods. She looks above her to see the course above them then looks at the camera]

Quinn: *nervous* We’re going up there… *makes a face and grabs Puck’s hand*

Puck: *looks up at the ropes with a grin* Yep, and it’s gonna be awesome.

Quinn: *leans closer to Puck, speaks soft* I’m a little nervous.

Puck: You don’t have to be nervous. I’m not gonna let anything happen to you.

-----

Today we’re at the ropes course to spend some time climbing. This is something I’ve done a lot. My girls and I go out and camp and stuff all of the time, but this is definitely something new for Quinn.

-----

[Puck and Quinn are harnessed, helmeted, and gloved. They climb up a bridge, Puck leading the way to the canopy. Quinn reaches the top of the canopy and looks out. The zip line goes down into the trees and out of sight.]

Quinn: Oh my God, you can’t even see where you’re going. I wish we could go at the same time. *laughs nervously, then looks down* We are really high up.

Puck: Just walk. I’m right behind you. Don’t even think about like how high up you are. Think about how cool it is to see so many cool things up here.

[The guide helps unhook Quinn and rehook her so she can lead the way down the zip line to the next canopy. She walks slow, holding on and then stops. She looks at Puck]

Quinn: I feel like I’m gonna fall. I wanna go back. *breathes out* I mean, I wanna do this, but… *takes another step*

Puck: *smiles softly, moving closer to Quinn* You ain’t gonna fall. I promise. Plus you’re wearing a harness.

Quinn: Right. *forces a smile then continues on, moving faster when the canopy comes in sight through the trees* Oh, yay, there it is! *hurries to the canopy and gives a small squeal of delight when stepping on the canopy. Grins at Puck* Okay, I do have to admit, this is kind of fun.

Puck: *makes it over to the canopy a minute later* I told you. It’s like fun once you get over the fear. It’s pretty up here.

Quinn: You were right. *smiles, watching Puck* Yeah, I’ve got a really pretty view.

Puck: You’re pretty up here.

Quinn: *grins and leans in to kiss Puck*

Puck: *pulls back with a smile* You ready to fly?

Quinn: *shakes head, laughing* No… *grins* You go first and I’ll follow you.

Puck: No way! Then you won’t do it. I know your game, Mrs. Puckerman.

-----

Mrs. Puckerman? Wait, is that my name now? Quinn Puckerman. Puckerman…

-----

Quinn: *laughs* Fine! I’ll go first! I’m already set up to.

[The guide gives them the instructs and Quinn hesitates before stepping up and getting ready. She looks at Puck then takes off down the zip line. She screams at first then laughs as she goes down the line]

Puck: *hangs back and watches as Quinn zips down the line before following behind her with a laugh*

[Montage of Puck and Quinn ziplining, going across bridges, and looking out from a tower over the woods. They kiss]

-----

[A campfire is going outside of the cabin. Quinn is bundled up in a big sweatshirt and pants, and is sitting in a chair in front of the fire, roasting a marshmallow on a stick. Puck is sitting beside her, also toasting a marshmallow]

Quinn: I had a ton of fun today with you.

Puck: *glances over at Quinn with a little smile* Yeah? I had fun too. I’m glad you gave ziplining a try.

Quinn: Me too. It was worth being scared for a little while… *laughs lightly and catches marshmallow on fire* Ah! *brings it close and blows it out, laughs again* Whoops. *carefully pulls the burnt part off the marshmallow and eats it. Glances at Puck* So… um, we’re both Mrs. Puckermans now? You didn’t want to be a Fabray? *laughs a little*

Puck: *laughs and moves to help Quinn with her marshmallow, pausing at the question* I...was just assuming. I never considered changing my last name, and I wouldn’t because it’s Hannah’s last name too. And I’m not really excited to share the last name with people that clearly don’t like me much. *shrugs* You don’t have to change your last name if you don’t want. I’d understand since I’m not changing mine. Fair is fair.

Quinn: *shakes head, pauses to think a moment* No. I wanna change it. *pulls the rest of the marshmallow off and eats it* I mean, I hadn’t thought about it at first, but then when you said it today… I kept saying it in my head and thinking about it and… I kind of like it. *pauses, then speaks quickly* Besides, I… actually have my ex’s name right now. I waited until it went through, the divorce, before I was gonna change it and then I got married so… *holds hand out* ‘Mallow me? *raises an eyebrow*

Puck: *sticks a marshmallow on Quinn’s stick* So your last name isn’t Fabray, then? I mean it is, but it isn’t...so what is your last name?

Quinn: Yeah, it is, but isn’t. I’ve been going by Fabray, like, when I talk to people, since we separated, but um… It’s McNulty. *starts toasting new marshmallow* But since I have to change it anyway… I want to change it to your name. I’m committed to us. To this. *glances at Puck*

Puck: *tilts her head back, laughing loudly* McNulty is a terrible last name. *sobers a little with a grin* I’m committed too, and I think you’ll make a good Puckerman.

Quinn: *laughs at the way Puck laughs, and her words* Yeah, I’m so glad to be done with that name. *laughter fades, keeps eye on Puck a moment. Smiles softly.* Yeah? I’ll fit right in?

Puck: *shrugs, bringing her own marshmallow to the fire* Yeah. Don’t you think so? Or does the whole Jewish versus Christian thing worry you?

Quinn: Well, you’re a whole family, I’m just one person, so I need to fit in. I think I will. *shakes head* No… I mean, I’m not that close to God right now and… *thinks a moment* I haven’t been to church in quite some time so… I’d like to go with you to Temple, if that’s fine with you, just to check it out and see. For you and the girls.

Puck: Of course it’s fine with me. I want to share that part of our lives with you, but I don’t want you to feel like you have to do things like convert or keep kosher or anything. *smiles softly* I respect that you aren’t Jewish.

Quinn: *smiles back* I respect that you are. I don't mind keeping kosher, I want to respect that and I think it'll just be easier for me, too, in remembering. I may not convert, but… I want to check it out.

Puck: Well, you're gonna get a crash course because Hannah’s bat mitzvah is this year.

-----

A bat mitzvah is the female version of a bar mitzvah, which is when a girl or boy becomes an adult in the Jewish faith. They aren't actual adults. It's just more like they're staying committed to being Jewish, at least until it becomes inconvenient to go to temple every Friday night.

-----

Quinn: *nods* Bat mitzvah. Got it. Like… Like a sweet sixteen party, right? It’s a big event.

Puck: Yeah, sorta, but if I can afford it, she’ll get one of those too. She deserves it, and I never had either.

Quinn: *frowns slightly* You’ve never had either…? I had a huge sweet sixteen, and graduation party… We’ll make sure she has both. *smiles at Puck*

Puck: *shakes her head* I mean, I was bat mitzvahed, but I didn’t have a big party. My mom saved up enough to take me out to dinner afterwards. I want her to have an amazing one. *smiles*

Quinn: She will. I love parties, so we got this in the bag. *pulls toasted marshmallow from the fire and holds stick near Puck* Help me assemble my s’more, please. *grins*

Puck: *stands and walks over to help Quinn make s’mores* These would make the perfect snack for the munchies.

Quinn: *raises an eyebrow* Munchies? *focuses on finishing the s’more then takes a bite, getting both marshmallow and chocolate on her face*

Puck: Yeah, from...smoking…

Quinn: *makes a face* Smoking? Smoking what?

Puck: Smoking...pot…*looks at Quinn for a moment*

-----

I’m starting to think that maybe I’m in trouble on this one.

-----

Quinn: Well… I don’t do that. *stares at Puck, face still messy* I drink alcohol on occasion, but… nothing else. The smoke, especially, bothers me. *pauses then takes a small bite of the s’more*

Puck: Well...I don’t want to upset you or anything, but it’s something that I do, not around the girls, but in my free time on occasion.

Quinn: Oh. *chews slowly* Well… I mean, as long as you, perhaps not do it in the house, or around me, I mean, just do it outside, that could be all right… I just don’t like the smell. But I don’t mind you do it. If it was any drugs harder than that, we might’ve had a problem. *offers a smile then takes another bite of the s’more*

Puck: Oh...it’s the smell that bothers you? I don’t mind doing it outside. Or I can make like brownies or something. That doesn’t usually smell.

Quinn: *nods* Yeah. *smiles more* So, we should be good then… *leans over and kisses Puck’s cheek with her messy face still and then laughs*

Puck: *smiles and kisses Quinn again* Good, but really with the girls, I don’t have a lot of time to do that. So don’t worry. You didn’t marry a pothead or anything.

Quinn: Good. *finishes eating s’more*

-----

Honestly, that is such a relief, because I’m not sure if I could get behind it if she did smoke often. But on occasion, I can deal with.

[Scene opens to Mercedes and Sam in their suite getting ready for their first activity of their Honeymoon.]

Mercy: Okay since this is an all day thing I want to make sure we have everything they recommend.*packing their bag for the day, she goes off the check list* Towels, sunscreen, change of clothes, closed shoes that can get wet and it says a bathing suit is a must so I am glad I bought a new one. Camera, which is waterproof so yay for that. Poncho? They have those at the gift shop… it also says to bring money and we shouldn’t bring valuables… is there anything else we should pack? Maybe we should put our rings somewhere safe like the safe in the room, I don’t want to lose it.

Sam: A half of Valium for your nerves.  And a partridge in a pear tree.  (Laughs) No seriously, I think that’s everything. Ready to go?  Do you always pack like this or does something have you on edge?

Mercy: Haha funny *looks at him* Its a little of both, we are gonna be gone pretty much all day so I want to make sure we have everything we need, plus its on the list of things we need. And then I have never been Kayaking before and well I just learned how to swim a few years ago, so all of this is out of my comfort zone,

Sam: So that’s it… I know you were nervous that’s why I suggested the Valium. But why did you just learn to swim. I’m pretty much a human fish myself.

Mercy: Because water and I have a hate/hate relationship… *she looked at Sam shaking her head* When Michael and I were 8 we went to this beach with the family. I was fine playing in the shallow end while my brothers had gone really far out, I didn’t think the water was deep because they were standing with their chest out of the water. After they yelled for me to come join them, I gave in and did, but what I didn’t know was that they were standing on some rocks. Since I was not able to stay above the water and I almost drowned. So I stayed away from water after that. I also think that is when they went crazy trying to over protect me.

Sam: *Leans against the dresser as she spoke.* I’m sorry, that sounds awful.  We could do something else. Go to the museum, or horseback riding?

Mercy: *Grabs the bag and walks closer to him.* No, I want to do this…though we are definitely going horseback riding. Now are you coming Evans or are you gonna chicken out?

Sam:  Chicken out? Me?  Never. *Walks out of the room behind Mercedes.*

-----

Last night was great.  We explored the hotel, and spent time walking and talking on the beach.  We couldn’t decide what to do first, I wanted to go kayaking, and Mercedes wanted to see the rain forest.  Turns out we’re going to do both today. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better in Mercedes, she is actually going out of her personal comfort zone to go kayaking with me which is amazing.  Her try attitude is unbelievable.  Especially for one who has been so sheltered.

-----

[Scene opens to show Sam and Mercy sitting on the bus as they are taken to their first location. then it skips ahead showing them walk through  the National Forest and information center. Next scene opens and they are coming up to the waterfall. There were a few other couples with them so each one went off on their own to explore the beauty of it.]

Mercy: *takes out her camera and snaps a picture of the waterfall in front of them.* This reminds me a bit of when I lived in Colorado. Every saturday morning when we were younger, my dad would take my brothers and me hiking. And there was this one trail with a waterfall. I never had the nerve to get in it but I thought it was so beautiful.

Sam: You grew up in Colorado.  Wow.  Do you ski?

Mercy: *nodding* I do, my parents are part owners in a Ski Lodge, I like water when its frozen, do you ski?

Sam: So, flying down a mountain on frozen snow is okay.  I’m shocked.  *he shrugs* No, I don’t but I’d like to learn. *stands taking off his sunglasses, hat and shirt throwing them on top of their pack*  What are you waiting for, let’s go.

Mercy: What do you mean what am I waiting for? What should I be- holy hell thats your chest? *turns from Sam blushing* I didn’t mean it like that i just… *turns back to Sam* Well damn I know how you felt when you saw my booty now.

Sam: *Crosses his arms over his chest.* Yeah, my nipples are a bit lopsided.  *raises an eyebrow at her.* Ohhhh, *shakes his head* When I said don’t peek in our room, I didn’t mean it.  Come on we have a waterfall to conquer.

Mercy: Boo with a body like that no one even notices that. *shrugs still staring at his chest* Yea well I am a good girl and if we are asked not to peek we don’t peek. *hesitating for a moment she sighed, removing her shorts first and then stopping at her shirt.* Maybe I should keep this on, you know just cause…

Sam:  Oh yes they would. Kids are cruel.  You my wife are a rare breed. The last good girl. *perplexed* I’m your husband, and I’ve been waiting to see your ass all day.  Lose the shirt. *Smiles*

Mercy: Well I am sorry kids are so cruel, you don’t deserve that. And I might not be the last good girl, there might be a few out there. *chews her bottom lip* I just feel a little self conscious you know? This is a new suit and the only one they had that wasn’t too be or too small and its a little bold…and red…

Sam: It’s fine, what doesn’t kill you. Right? *He shrugs* Nope, you’re the last one.  I checked.  *swats away a fly. nods* I understand, it’s up to you.

Mercy: Well then lucky you right? *sighs, closing her eyes and pulling off her shirt, tossing it on top of his.* When in Rome right?

Sam: Yes, I am lucky they paired us. Very lucky.  *He claps, walking over to Mercedes he takes her hand* You look amazing. *Kisses her softly.*

Mercy: *accepts his kiss and smiles* So thats what it takes to get a kiss from you? I gotta take my shirt off? *she teased.* I have been waiting for you to kiss me all day

Sam: Well taking your shirt off helps.  But you never have to wait.  You should take what’s yours. *Kisses her again, then moves towards the falls.*

Mercy: So are you saying that you are mines? Cause that is pretty awesome. *follows after Sam taking his hand and getting into the water.* Its so beautiful, so peaceful out here.

Sam: Hmm, that’s kind of the definition of being husband and wife right. *Sam walks her closer to the falls.* Mhm, nothing to worry about here.

Mercy: Yeah but there is a difference you know?  Between me thinking it and you saying it. *looks at the falls, the Sam.* Are you taking me to the actual falls? Like up close and personal?

Sam: *Shakes head* Yes, I’m completely sure.  *Makes it to the base of the falls.  Water cascades down his head and shoulders. Shaking his hair out.* Come in, the water’s great.  

Mercy: Ummm are you sure about this?

Sam: *Shakes head* Yes, I’m completely sure.  *Makes it to the base of the falls.  Water cascades down his head shoulder. Shaking his hair out.* Come on.

-----

Okay so I have a legit fear here, but I am trying. This marriage is a symbol of a new me, one who faces fears and takes chances and that, is what I am doing now.

-----

Mercy: *takes a deep breath and follows him.* Don’t let go of my hand…

Sam: *turns her around, placing her back to his front.  Then he walks them both back into the spray.*  

Mercy: *screams as the water hit her but continues to walk until they are under the waterfall. Runs her hand over her face and hair, wiping her eyes.*

Sam: *lets the current push them back out Into the pool.*  Now was that so bad?

Mercy: *looks at him shaking her head* Not bad at all…

Sam: *letting her go.* Good  *Sam dunked himself then pushed himself back towards the fall.*  Now catch me if you can.

-----

I don’t know what it is about Sam, that just, he makes you think you can do anything, conquer it all.  I guess in a way I can. Our Honeymoon has just started and already we are having such a great time. It makes me look forward to the rest of our lives. This whole day, between the waterfalls and hiking trails, has been so refreshing, and eye opening and I am finding myself able to do things I didn’t think I would do, or even want to do.

Walking around St. Augustine with Kitty is like a perfect evening. We have so much in common, and she’s as intelligent as she is beautiful. I couldn’t be happier with the match.

-----

[Scene changes to Kitty and Jesse laying in their bed looking at each other.]

Jesse: So tell me your favorite type of flowers.

Kitty: I’ve always been fond of daffodils and tulips. I just find something beautiful about their simplicity. Why?

Jesse: Well, I can’t be married to someone and not know her favorite flower…*grins* What about your favorite color?

Kitty: Blue. Definitely blue. *laughs* Are you going to make me play twenty questions tonight?

Jesse: *chuckles* Sure, why not? Last night we were too tired to do much talking. Tonight we’re refreshed, and since we’re not intending to do anything else...why not get to know each other?

Kitty: I can agree to that. But you have to answer the questions, too. So, same question. What’s your favorite color?

Jesse: Okay deal...my favorite color is also blue. Blue similar to the color of your eyes.

Kitty: *blushes* To steal a description from one of my favorite books, your eyes remind me of the sea after a storm.

Jesse: The Princess Bride? So you’re a fairytale kind of girl, then?

Kitty: You could say that. But The Princess Bride has everything. It’s more than just a fairytale even if the overall message is that true love prevails.

Jesse: I enjoyed the movie, but I can’t say that I’ve ever read the book. Is Peter Pan your absolute favorite book or is there another?

Kitty: Peter Pan was my favorite growing up, and The Princess Bride is a favorite, too. I really like Neil Gaiman’s Stardust as well which just plays into the whole fairytale thing for me. And your favorite is?

Jesse: Growing up, I really enjoyed The Catcher In The Rye. Then, I went to college and took a fiction class that was devoted to dystopian texts. I read 1984, and I couldn’t put it down.

Kitty: I was never big on 1984. I just couldn’t get into it when I had to read it in high school. But I can get behind a good dystopian novel. I can’t keep them on the shelves at work.

Jesse: I’ll put a pin in discussing how you can possibly dislike a work of fiction that remains revolutionary in its vision even beyond the year 1984, and ask what you do for a living.

Kitty: I’m a teen library specialist. I would say librarian, but I can’t really claim that title until I go to grad school and get my masters in library science. But I help run the teen room at the library, and it’s a pretty great gig most of the time.

Jesse: Okay, but what exactly do you do when you say run the teen room?

Kitty: Most days, it’s just signing out wii controllers for the gaming system we have for them to play at the library and making computer passes, but I also give out book recommendations and help to create and run programs for teens in the community.

Jesse: The library has definitely changed since I was a teen. Though, I admit that if my local librarian looked like you and not a witch from a storybook, I’d probably have kept going. *chuckles* I kid, but seriously, your work sounds like it’s important and admirable.

Kitty: It’s been really eye opening for me in the sense that I’m realizing what a charmed life I had growing up compared to some of these kids.

-----

Giving back to the community wasn’t actually on my questionnaire in an ideal mate, but the fact that she just does as a job is incredible.

------

Jesse: *nods* I know. My company has been donating computers and software to various schools in the more underprivileged areas.

-----

So, he makes good money, he’s incredibly attractive, and he gives back to the community? I would like to thank the scientists who matched us, God, and also Jesus because this guy is almost too good to be true.

-----

Kitty: So, what do you do for fun when you’re not being in charge of your fancy, high-tech company?

Jesse: Well, let’s see...I love to hike. I’m addicted to doing crosswords on my phone. I read the newspaper everyday. I enjoy baseball, but I will watch football as well. I feel like this i the most difficult question to answer. I feel like I’m forgetting so many things. What about you, Miss Teen Librarian Specialist?

Kitty: Well, I read a lot. Obviously. *laughs* And I’m big on yoga. My best friend got me interested in musical theater when we were younger, but I wouldn’t say that I’m as obsessed with it as she is. Occasionally, I have been known to play a videogame or two partially because of the storytelling aspect and partially because then I know the kinds of things my teens are interested in. And, I’m a board game junkie. I also used to be a cheerleader, so I still hold a love of football in my heart, but I don’t really follow any specific teams or have any favorites. I know I’m probably forgetting a lot of things, but that’s me off the top of my head.

Jesse: I’ve only been to a handful of yoga classes. It’s not really my thing, but I do love Broadway. I did a lot of musicals growing up. I’m fairly certain my mother was hoping that I’d end up with a career on the stage, but life just didn’t work out that way. I have gotten a lot more into video games since starting a tech company than I used to be, but like you, I prefer board games. I like college football over pro, and I’m partial to UNC for obvious reasons, but I grew up loving Ohio State. So I’m partial to them as well.

Kitty: My family has always been a big fan of the New York Giants, so I still have a mild love of their team. I didn’t really ever watch college football until I moved down here and saw how popular it was, so I’ve only ever really watch UNC games at the college level. And now that I know more about you, I need to know what your favorite musical and favorite board game are.

Jesse: We’ll have to take in a game. *reaches out to poke her side playfully* My favorite musical is Guys and Dolls as far as classics go, and I’m a big fan of The Book of Mormon, even though it’s irreverent. My favorite board game is Betrayal at House on the Hill. What about you?

Kitty: *giggles and pushes his hand away* Book of Mormon is pretty great as far as most modern musicals go. I have a weird love of modern musicals that take place in the past, so Newsies and Catch Me If You Can are big faves of mine. I will always be partial to Bye Bye Birdie as well. And I think the similarities between us are getting almost too crazy because I love Betrayal at House on the Hill, too. My brother bought it for me last Christmas, and we roped my sister and brother-in-law into playing it with us multiple times that week.

Jesse: Most people have no idea what I'm talking about when I mention that game. I was sure I would have to explain it. That's just fantastic. *smiles* I'm thoroughly impressed that we were matched. So far I'm having a great time.

Kitty: I am, too. I was honestly convinced that I’d end up hating whoever I was matched with, and, for the first time in my life, I’m happy to say that I was wrong about something.

Jesse: Well, I'm happy to hear that you don't hate me. I will count that as a big plus…I think we can call it a night on the twenty questions. I'm getting tired.

Kitty: Agreed. And we’ll need to get some sleep anyway if we want to make the most of this honeymoon. *smiles* But I do expect a goodnight kiss first.

Jesse: *smiles back at her before moving close enough to kiss her slow and deep before pulling back* Goodnight, Mrs. St. James.

Kitty: Goodnight, Mr. St. James.

-----

[Scene opens with Jesse and Kitty heading into the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum.]

------

Today, we’re going to the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum. It’s not something I would usually pick for myself, but my wife seems very excited about it. So I’m keeping an open mind.

-----

How could you not want to go somewhere as cool as a museum dedicated to pirates? It’s almost too appropriate for us after I gave Jesse a copy of Peter Pan before our wedding.

-----

Kitty: I feel like my inner six year old is going to have a heart attack from the excitement right now. I would have killed to get to go to a place like this back then.

Jesse: *chuckles, taking her hand* Well then, by all means, let us indulge six-year-old Kitty.

Kitty: Should we take one of the group tours? Or should we just go through on our own? I’m not sure which would be better. I mean, I think they’re most likely geared toward children, but it might be fun to act like kids for a day.

Jesse: Both options hold merit. I will let it be lady’s choice because I’m game for either. Which appeals to you more?

Kitty: *smiles at her husband* I think we should take the group tour. Just to get the full experience and make the most out of this educational fun.

Jesse: Let’s do that.

[Scene shifts to the couple touring with families, looking at the main deck and then watching the Disney’s Blackbeard Show, before firing a cannon.]

-----

Today has been kind of amazing. I never take the time to just do things like this. I forget how fun it can be to just let go, and my wife...I’m still not over saying that...my wife just is one of the most fun people I’ve ever met.

------

Do you know how great it is to be unafraid to be yourself in front of someone? With any of the guys that I’ve dated in the past, I never would have allowed myself to do anything like this that’s usually perceived as childish. But, with my new, amazing husband, I can allow myself to get excited over these little things. I don’t have to hide that side of me from him, and it’s such a relief to just be me.

-----

[Kitty and Jesse are shown exiting the museum together.]

Kitty: Thank you so much for agreeing to coming here with me. *smiles* I had a really wonderful time. So what do you say to us heading back to the hotel to rest a little bit before we get ready for dinner?

Jesse: You don’t have to thank me. I want to be an active participant in things you like if I can be. *smiles back* Plus, I really like when you do that cute squealy thing you do when you’re happy. It was positively adorable. I’m good with heading to dinner after a nice long nap.

Kitty: *blushes* I do not squeal. I think you imagined that part.

Jesse: I did not. It was really cute. *leans in and kisses her cheek* Now, about that nap…

Kitty: *smirks* I think you’ve definitely earned a makeout session before that nap after how wonderful you were today. So lead the way back to our room.

Jesse: I'm not going to say no to a makeout session ever. *chuckles as he tugs at her hand, pulling her towards the hotel*

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Let’s Get Away...

[An SUV pulls up in front of a cabin in the middle of the woods. There’s a river off to the left. It stops and Puck and Quinn climb out.]

Puck: *looking around* Yeah, this is perfect. Out here in the woods with no one around.

-----

So the Experts hooked us up with this amazing cabin out in the middle of the woods. It’s got a creek next to it, a hammock, and a hot tub. Top it all off with my wife, and it’s the perfect honeymoon.

-----

Quinn: This is crazy nice. *looks around* Aw, look at the little creek. And the firepit. Oh my God, we have to do a fire tonight, okay? *smiles, almost shyly, at Puck*

Puck: *laugh with a little nod* We can totally do that. I wonder if there’s marshmallows inside to roast. *takes Quinn’s hand and leads her into the cabin with their bags*

-----

[Scene cuts to later in the day. Puck leads the way back outside to the hammock.]

Puck: The hammock looks nice. We should hang there for awhile. What do you say?

Quinn: Yeah. *nods* But you get in first because I’m scared I’ll flip it over. *starts to laugh*

Puck: *laughs* So you want me to flip over instead. You’re so nice. *climbs into the hammock carefully, managing to settle in without flipping*

Quinn: Yes, but I wasn’t going to laugh too much, if you did. *grins then carefully climbs in to join Puck, falling against her* Oh, God… is this okay? *laughs*

Puck: How did I end up with such a nice wife? *shifts a little and places her arm around Quinn* Is this okay?

Quinn: You lucked out. *grins and snuggles against Puck. looks up at her, grins again* It’s very okay, yes.

Puck: So...how’s it going? I mean now that that “amazing” brunch is over, how are you feeling about this all?

Quinn: Good. Fine. *pause* I mean, I wish things hadn’t gone the way they had. I wish my parents were more accepting or understanding. It’ll get better with time, I promise. *sighs* I just wish they hadn’t thrown all my business out there like that. *offers a smile* But I don’t regret marrying you. That is worth it.

Puck: I’m sorry it went down like that too. I didn’t want it to go down like that, but lucky for us, we’ve got nothing but time. I’m not worried at all. This is all gonna work out for the best. *grins* And that’s the most optimistic you’re ever gonna see me be. *chuckles*

Quinn: Eh, I’ll take it. *gives Puck a squeeze* So, um, what’s your job? I realized we haven’t talked much about all the… little details, thanks to the drama. But, what’s your job, your favorite color, what high school was like for you…? I need to know everything and I need to know it now. *laughs*

Puck: *lips quirk into a grin* Okay...well, I work at the post office. That’s kinda boring, but I also play softball and whatever else I feel like doing when I see it. My favorite color is pink, actually. And high school...well I got pregnant in the tenth grade with Hannah, but before that, I was out with my boyfriend and friends, drinking in the woods, doing donuts in parking lots, getting rowdy. I do any dare that anyone gave me. I’m still kinda like that actually. I’m just your normal, down home Southern girl. I don’t know. I like moonshine and hunting. I just like being outside.

Quinn: *starts to laugh* Um… I think I can get behind all of this, it’s just funny because I don’t think, on paper, that I would have pursued you… if I’m being honest… *laughs and leans in the peck Puck’s cheek* But I think that’s a good thing! Opposites and all… I’d have never guessed your favorite color is pink. What position do you play for softball? That’s kind of cool.

Puck: I’m not offended. I’m a catch though. So you really lucked up. You hit the jackpot. *grins* I don’t know. I don’t think we’re that opposite, I mean except the obvious ways. Of course, I’ve only known you like twenty-four hours. I could be wrong.  Anyway, I play the outfield. I’ve been playing since Iva was about three. I’d never done it before, but I guess I just was good at it. It’s fun. What about you? Tell me all the stuff about you.

Quinn: Yeah, no, that’s what I mean, that we’re opposite in that way… Like, I mean, I was into sports but not, like, nothing like hunting or… drinking beers in the woods. *laughs* Um… Well, my favorite color is blue. But light blue. And I was a news reporter, but now I’m just taking a job at a news station, writing stories and stuff, I think is what I’m doing... And In high school, I was a varsity cheerleader and Homecoming Queen. And I was on the debate team, newspaper, and part of my youth group and church choir.

Puck: *laughs* No offense, but I probably would’ve hated you in high school. I mean...I would’ve thought you hot, but I would’ve probably told everyone I hated you. *shrugs* Now, however, the fact that I’m married to a cheerleader is kind of hot.

Quinn: *starts to laugh* You know, I probably would have said I disliked you as well, but only because you hated me first. And then I'd probably say I'd pray for you. *laughs again and then licks her lips* So, you're married to a former cheerleader… And I'm married to someone who told me they always take a dare… That could come in handy later…

Puck: *keeps laughing as they shift a little* I would’ve just told you I was Jewish and I didn’t need your prayers. Now I’m kinda sad we didn’t meet in high school. *reaches up and brushes Quinn’s hair back* That sounds like you’re telling me you’re still really flexible...am I right?

-----

A friggin cheerleader...Thank you, Experts!

-----

Quinn: I'm not because I'm just happy I'm meeting you now. Meeting and marrying. *smiles, nods* Yeah, I am, as a matter of fact, still really flexible. I do yoga too.

Puck: *groans* You’re trying to kill me. *grips Quinn’s sweater and pulls her close, kissing her slowly*

Quinn: *grins at Puck’s reaction then closes eyes and leans into the kiss. Kisses Puck slowly and slides hand over Puck’s hip*

-----

[ Scene opens: Sam is holding the video camera focusing it to get both him and Mercedes in frame.]

Sam: We’re off, to see the Puerto Rico! The wonderful Puerto Rico of it all. Okay that’s a horrible song, but we are off, on our honeymoon.  *Whispers*  This is not first class.

Mercy:*smiles leaning into the Sam* Yes ladies, that is my Husband singing that ridiculous song! *laughs* but I am so excited, we are off, well almost off. The plane hasn’t taken off yet.

Sam: Cupcake, do you like traveling with me so far? Yep, she’s has a nickname already.

Mercy: Well the trip from the hotel here wasn’t eventful, trying to find our gate was fun. And yes I have the cutest nickname! Its fitting.  

Sam: *looks around the cabin* It looks like the seat belt light has been engaged.  See you again in paradise.  Say by Cupcake.

Mercy: *waves bye* Bye cupcake!

Sam: *laughs as he closes the camera.*

-----

[Scene opens: Mercedes and Sam arrive at the hotel. It shows Sam helping the bellman gather their luggage.  Then it skips to Mercedes Sam moving, hand in hand, into the hotel.]

-----

We’re in paradise.  This place is utterly amazing.  If I had to describe our I relationship right now I’d have to say, easy… We get along well. She’s super sweet and open with me.  I know from the questions she asks me sometimes, that she’s a little self-conscious, where her appearance is concerned.  But I don’t really see that in our interactions. I really don’t foresee us having any problems.  I’m excited to be here, sharing in this beautiful experience with Mercedes.

-----

[They explore their Jr. Suite.  Sam is on the balcony looking out to the ocean. He calls out to Mercedes.]

Sam: That is the bluest water I have ever seen.

Mercy: *walks out to greet Sam looking at the water* Its so big and intimidating… and yet the most inviting thing I have ever seen.

-----

So we checked in and are in our suite and its so perfect and beautiful here. I was a little scared at how things would be after brunch, his mom didn’t leave but she made it clear she was not happy. Then I realized that I am married and about to go on my Honeymoon so I’ve decided not to let what happened change what is, and what is… is that we are in Puerto Rico, we are on our honeymoon, and I am looking forward to all the fun things we get to do together.

-----

Mercy: *Turns towards Sam with a smile* So we are in the most beautiful and amazing place I have ever been in, in my life, what do you want to do first?

Sam: *Rubs her shoulders* Me to. Let’s see… I want to put my feet in the sand.  So how about we take a walk on the beach, then grab so dinner.  Or the other way around

Mercy: That sounds perfect! But first… *shifts towards Sam completely and leans up to kiss him softly,* Gotta meet my quota of kisses today

Sam:  *kisses her back.* I like that rule.

Mercy: You would you are the one who made it up. *she laughs kissing him again* I think there is like an international exception. To where we have to double the amount of kisses.

-----

A montage of Jesse and Kitty riding in the car to the airport, then walking off of the plane in Florida, then in the car to the hotel. They walk in and headed to the check-in desk. They receive their keys and then head up to their room where Jesse lets them in, looking around.]

Jesse: *drags his suitcase into the room and by the bed* This is already an upgrade from the wedding night.

Kitty: *follows Jesse into the room with her bag and sits down on the edge of the bed* I have to agree that the lack of rose petals is a welcome change. We’ll have to order room service since the hotel didn’t provide us with any snacks this time.

Jesse: That’s true, but there was that nice square we walked by. I’m sure there are a lot of food options within walking distance. It’ll give me a reason to...get some sunscreen on that perfect skin of yours.

Kitty: I’m pretty sure you just want an excuse to get your hands all over my body, and I can’t exactly blame you for wanting that.

Jesse: I don’t think I would need an excuse to want to get my hand all over your body. *grins*

Kitty: You did get pretty lucky in the level of hotness your wife has to provide. It’s almost not fair really.

Jesse: I think we both got luck in that department.

Kitty: I couldn’t agree more. Now why don’t we get ready to go out and explore our honeymoon destination?

Jesse: *stands up and holds his hand out to Kitty* Yes, let’s go check out the square and see what’s there.

[The scene shows a montage of them walking around the square, holding hands and talking]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

A Nice Family Brunch?

[Quinn, hair still mussed and tired looking, but dressed, is talking to the camera in the hotel room, speaking low. The lighting is off, its low quality.]

Quinn: My parents texted early this morning that they weren’t coming to brunch…

[She turns as Puck moves near her, then gives her a quick peck to the lips before heading to the mirror to brush her hair.]

-----

Waking up next to my wife was one of the best feelings in the world. I don’t know the last time I felt this happy. Even though we barely know each other, it feels like something is there, like something’s here that will keep us together. I know it’s still too early to tell how things will go, but this just feels right. [pause] We didn’t… consummate the marriage just yet… But there’s still the honeymoon. [winks]

-----

You ever wake up and have like the best morning ever, not even because of sex because we totally didn’t have sex, and then it’s all just ruined. By a text message.  I really like my wife. I like her a lot. Which is weird to say because we’re friggin married, but I’m really not a fan of my in-laws. They just seem like really terrible people. I mean, maybe I’m wrong. Maybe it’s just this crazy situation. So I’m trying really hard to bite my tongue. I just need to make it through this brunch and then Quinn and me are off on our honeymoon.

-----

[Quinn and Puck walk into the restaurant, surprised to see Quinn’s parents.]

Puck: *walks in and hugs her mother and sister, offering Quinn’s parents a tight smile* Good morning, everyone. You’re all looking nice and refreshed. I slept well. How about you? *looks directly at Quinn’s parents*

Judy: Very well, thank you.

Quinn: *stops to hug Puck’s mom and sister, then hesitates and moves around to sit instead of hugging her own parents* Yes, we slept very well, all cuddled up, practically on top of each other.

Russell: *clears throat*

Sarah: Only cuddling? *looks at Puck* Are you ok?

Puck:*laughs a little, shaking her head* I am just fine. Gotta save something for the honeymoon. *winks at Sarah before they both snicker*

Esther: Girls, not at the table. Oi, you’re going to put me in an early grave.

Sarah: Sorry Mom…

Puck: *ducks her head* Sorry, Ma. *smirks at Sarah and then Quinn*

Quinn: *smirks back at Puck, then glances at Sarah and smiles at her, too* Thanks for coming to brunch. *glances at her parents, then at Puck’s mom* We really appreciate you all being here.

Esther: Of course, dear, Norah’s being married is something I never thought I’d see. I’m just so happy she’s settled down.

Puck: *looks at Quinn and mouths “crazy” about her mother*

Esther: What?

Puck: *shakes her head* Nothing, Ma. So bagel and lox then?

Quinn: *laughs silently at Puck then bites her lip and glances at her parents before looking at Puck* I've never had a bagel and lox. What is that?

Puck: it's um...like salmon that's been in brine. They don't cook it. So it's kinda like sushi too in a way. You eat it on a bagel with cream cheese. *looks at her mom and sister for a moment* We keep kosher. So I basically can't eat any breakfast meats ‘cept lox and steak. Want a bite when I get it?

Quinn: *frowns as she hears the description, glances at Puck’s family then looks at Puck* You'll… have to go over this kosher thing with me. I don't know anything about it.

Judy: Because Quinn is Catholic. She went to Catholic school and college.

Quinn: Raised Catholic. *smiles at Puck* I'd love to try it. *reaches under the table to take Puck’s hand*

Puck: *smiles back at Quinn before looking at Judy* Well, it's not like I'm saying she can't be Catholic or has to eat kosher. It's called sharing in other people's cultures and being open-minded. I think a lot of people would benefit from that. Just sayin.

Judy: I believe some influences may be bad and give the wrong idea to open minded people like my daughter. She's always marched to the beat of her own drum, pursuing her own interests, never did anything just because someone told her she should. I just don't want her making bad decisions.

Quinn: I'm not making bad decisions, Mom.

Judy: I know that, Quinn, but I was just saying I don't want you mingling with the wrong crowd.

Quinn: Mom, this is my wife now. It’s not--

Judy: Am I not allowed to voice concerns? I thought that's what we're doing here, at brunch, just chatting. *picks up mimosa and takes a long drink*

Esther: Well, if we're voicing concerns, I'm a little concerned that you're a little antisemitic. I mean unless you think being kosher means you're being initiated into a gang then I don't understand your problem. So you must think that being Jewish is the “wrong influence.” You know who else thought like that? Hitler. *holds up her hands in defense* I'm not saying you're nazis but you are very Aryan looking, and that coupled with your issues with being kosher, some people might draw some conclusions.

Sarah: I've never known lox to be some kind of gateway drug. Next thing you know, she'll be eating brisket and selling latkes to kids on the street corner.

-----

I love my family.

-----

Russell: *leans back against chair* Of course we’re not antisemitic, but you have to agree that when you thought about your kosher girls growing up, you thought they’d find kosher spouses. My daughter, Francine, married a man that was Catholic. Quinn did too. I’m just saying, sometimes it’s difficult to make a marriage work when there’s such opposition.

Quinn: But I’m not opposing, Dad.

Russell: *holds up a hand toward Quinn, as if to quiet her* There’s a lot of surprising changes, Quinn. It’s a lot at once. *lowers his hand and then sits quietly*

Quinn: Well, I’m sorry.

-----

If I had known this is how they really felt? I wouldn’t have done it. They said they supported me. I guess that was a lie.

-----

Puck: Okay, but you do know that Quinn isn’t changing, right? You two seem like smart, well-educated people. You get that she’s the exact same person that you’ve known her whole life. My being a kosher Jew isn’t  going to change anything except maybe she won’t eat cheeseburgers anymore.

Esther: Unless your problem is with Norah then we’re going to have an even bigger problem. You don’t know my daughter, and you seem to be making a lot of judgments about her.

Puck: Is this because you didn’t know she was into other women? Is that your problem? Is it that she didn’t pick a Catholic woman? If we’re voicing concerns, let’s get them all out in the open now. No need to be polite. We’re all family now. So, Mom and Dad, let’s put it all on the table so that we can all know where each other stands. I’ll even go first. For as much as I already like your daughter, I’m not really fond of either of you. I think you’re selfish people that tried to ruin her special day.  And that’s a real dick move to me. Mom? Sarah? Anything you wanna add?

Esther: Norah, I don’t think this will help.

Sarah: No, Mom, she’s right. There’s no need to pretend to be nice when you aren’t actually nice. *looks at Quinn’s parents* I think you’re not as nice as you think you are. I think you shouldn’t be so judgmental of people and their religion unless you want people to do the same to you, and right now, you’re not really scoring big points for the Catholics, in my opinion.

[Judy sits mortified and then drinks more. Russell leans forward in his chair]

Russell: I’ve never seen more disrespectful children. I don’t care how old you are, but it’s still disrespectful. I’m trying to make sure Quinn doesn’t ruin her life over this… phase of hers.

Quinn: Oh my God, Dad, it’s not a phase. I told you it wasn’t a--

Russell: It’s going to stay a phase if you stay married to her. You gave up too soon on your marriage to Nick--

Quinn: He gave up. He cheated on me. I was the one who tried to make it work and he gave up.

Russell: Don’t cut me off, Quinn.

Quinn: I don’t know know why we have to talk about this over and over and over again. It’s not going to change anything!

-----

It’s like talking to a f-BLEEP-ing wall.

-----

Sarah: So...let me get this straight, pun intended... *smirks at Puck* You’d rather your daughter be unhappy and stay married to a guy that’s cheating on her than have her married to a woman that’s not gonna do that? Wow, you guys really are selfish dicks. My sister’s right. *looks at Quinn* I’m sorry your parents are a*holes. That’s tough.

Puck: Don’t ever call me a child again because you can’t handle being called out on just how terrible you’re being to your own daughter. I mean really think about what kind of message it sends that you care more about your own happiness than hers. And don’t say you’re doing it for her, because that’s crap and everyone here knows that, including Quinn. My mom doesn’t like every decision I make, but she’s never anything but supportive when I need her. That’s how you parent. You don’t try to talk someone into staying in a loveless marriage, and now that she is married to me, I’m not just gonna stand by and let you continue to treat her like she’s any less a person just because you’re her parents. She doesn’t deserve that, and I dare you to contradict me on any of what I just said. There’s not a single thing you could say that would justify a single thing you’ve said here.

Russell: *pulls off his microphone and stands* We’re done here. *sets the mic pack on the table and reaches for Judy’s arm* Judy, let’s go.

[Judy gets up, pulling her microphone off and struggling with it before dropping it onto the table.]

Russell: *looks to Quinn* Quinn. *nods toward the door as he leads Judy away*

Quinn: *frowning deeply, glances around, but doesn’t meet anyone’s eye* I’ll be right back, really quick.

[Quinn gets up quickly and walks out of the restaurant, where her parents are standing just outside.]

Quinn: Did we have to do it like that? Is that how you wanted this to go? Because then you really shouldn’t have come at all.

Russell: Don’t raise your voice to me.

Judy: Calm down, Quinn.

Russell: You’re choosing them over us, over your own family.

Quinn: You didn’t even want to be here. Francine flat out refused. And it’s a damn shame. But they’re my family now too. They’re my family. They don’t have to be yours. I don’t care.

[Quinn turns and heads back inside.]

Russell: Quinn!

[Quinn moves back to the table, frowning still. She takes a breath as she sits down in her former seat.]

Quinn: *glances around* So, this lox thing, I wanna order it. *starts to laugh, unable to help herself, and picks up her mimosa, finishing it*

-----

I know I probably shouldn’t have done that, but I rarely bite my tongue on a good day, and I just couldn’t sit with people that’d do that. I’m not gonna let anyone insult my family, and now that family includes Quinn.

-----

Puck: *laughs a little* Well alright! *leans over and kisses Quinn’s cheek*

-----

[Everyone is mostly through their meals, Quinn having both a lox bagel and a few strips of bacon on her plate]

Quinn: I think this is the beginning of phasing out of bacon. I wanna respect your religious beliefs… Bacon will be the hardest, though. I can’t believe you never ate it. *laughs* But this lox was super awesome.

Puck: *grins happily* I meant it when I said you don't have to do that, but thank you for saying that.

----

I think I'm going to like being married to her.

----

[Puck walks back in holding a gift basket.]

Puck: *sits next to Quinn* Look what we got.

Quinn: *grins and looks at the basket* Oh my goodness. *pokes at the contents, looking them over and smiles up at Puck* So what’s this for…? *lifts an eyebrow*

Puck: *pulls out a letter, clearing her throat* Dear, Norah and Quinn, congratulations on starting your journey as wife and wife. May you honeymoon to Blue Ridge, Georgia  be the start your biggest adventure of all, marriage. From the Experts. *looks at Quinn* We’re going to the mountains! Hell yes!

-----

I know most people are probably hoping for Hawaii or the Bahamas for a honeymoon, but I’m a mountains kind of girl. So excited.

-----

Quinn: *claps* Oh that’s so exciting! That’ll be fun.

-----

http://i.skyrock.net/7784/80507784/pics/3037771367_1_13_IZD5QajD.gif

I don’t really go to the mountains, but I’m looking forward to it. It’ll be nice and secluded, which is, like, the perfect getaway spot. As long as there is no snow, or bears, I’ll be good.

-----

Quinn: *turns to Puck* Are you ready, then?

Puck: For our honeymoon? Definitely!

[Scene opens with Sam and Mercedes in bed. Sam stretches, then kisses the top of Mercedes head]

Sam: *Yawns* Good Morning… Wife.

Mercy: *looks over at Sam shyly* Good morning, Husband, how did you sleep?

-----

So today is my first official day as a married woman, today we also have brunch with the family and we find out where we are going for our Honeymoon.

[pause]

No, there was no consummating the marriage last night, we had a really great night just talking and getting to know each other. I do really see why you guys put us together, we seem to have a lot in common.

-----

Sam: I slept like a baby… Or better yet, like a content, happy man. Are you ready to potentially start the rest of our lives?

Mercy: Oh? And what had you sleeping like a “happy man?” I wonder? *chewing on her lower lip she looks like she is debating his question* Hmmmm I dunno that is a lot to ask a girl before breakfast. *she smiles widely at him to let him know she was joking* What would the rest of our lives look like?

-----

I woke up this morning in a comfortable bed with a beautiful woman. Not just some ordinary woman, my WIFE! That was an amazing feeling, unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. We have it, I really believe we have all the potential we need to make this work…  *Gives the camera a huge smile.*  No we didn’t con-su-mate the marriage last night. *Laughs* We’ve got an awesome amount of chemistry, so it’s only a matter of time.

-----

Sam: *Kisses her head again* Mhm… *tickles her sides* I don’t know. It might be waking up with this beautiful woman in my bed. Is that so. Then, I guess I should feed you. *Looks up at the ceiling, rubbing her back,* It looks like happy times and funny memories.

Mercy: *laughs* Please i am sure I look a mess, I don’t even have my face on yet. *buries her face in his chest.* Happy times and funny memories? Well that is intriguing… okay lets do it then, lets start the rest of our lives…but if there isn’t more kissing involved I am walking. Your lips are a deal breaker. *she teased.*

Sam: *Laughs, then bends down giving her a kiss on the lips.*

-----

[Sam and Mercedes get out of bed. Sam goes to the coffee maker and starts brewing coffee, as Mercedes searches through her suitcase.  Looking back over his shoulder, he talks to Mercedes, while they each complete their respective tasks.]

Sam: We have a natural rhythm, and we seem to fit well together.  It’s nice to know, they really did take their time to match us up.

-----

I believe the cornerstone to any relationship is laughter and being able to have fun together. I am a pretty corny guy. Yet, Mercedes laughs at all my crazy jokes and impressions.  I’d say that puts us in a good place.

-----

Sam: *throws his suitcase on the bed. Opening it.* What to wear? *takes out a rumple Tee shirt  and jeans.*

Mercy: *stops pulling her things out of her suitcase and glances at Sam and his.* Umm what is going on in your suitcase over there?

Sam: *raises his eyebrow*  What?

Mercy: It looks like an earthquake hit you right in the bag… did you pack it like that?

-----

So I knew there had to be something about Sam that wasn’t too good to be true. He’s messy. But I don’t mind, my parents were always taking care of each other, what my father lacked, my mother picked up and vice versa. If this marriage turns out like that, I saw we will definitely make it. -----

Sam: *changes the jeans for shorts*  Hey…Yes. *gives Mercedes a blank stare*  What’s the point of being super neat when everything is going to end up tossed around anyway?

Mercy: *smiled at his words*  Tell me you at least are going to Iron your clothes?

Sam: *shakes the shorts out with a snap* No… they’re fine. *folds the shorts and smooths them with his hand.*  A little elbow ironing works just as well.

Mercy: *laughs walking over to the ironing board and iron and pulling them out* I see already I have my work cut out for me as your wife. I can not let you go out of this room looking a hot mess. *sets everything up looking towards Sam and reaches for his clothes*

Sam: *Chuckling* Are you going to iron for me? Aw, that’s so sweet.  *hands her, his clothes*. I’m going to watch. *picks up his coffee and stand  behind her as she sets to work.*

-----

I like the way she wants to take care of me, and be a good helpmate.  She doesn’t have to be a suzie homemaker.  But a woman who can cook and doesn’t mind ironing is a treasure.

-----

Mercy: I am. *Begins to iron his clothes* And I expect full payment when I am finished, so you can spend this time coming up with whatever you choose. But coffee, is off that list because I don’t like it.

Sam: *grimaces as he drinks his coffee.*  But who doesn’t like coffee?

Mercy: *looks at him with a smile* Why your wife doesn’t. I tried to drink it once and didn’t like the taste.

Sam: *shakes his head a look of disbelief on his face.*

-----

[Scene moves to them getting dressed. Mercedes gives Sam his  clothes and pushes him towards the bathroom.  Then she giggles as she moves back to her suitcase and lays out her clothes.]

Mercy: So getting up this morning I already learned a few things about hubby. He is not organized, I mean his clothes were just shoved in his bag,  but he is sweet man who secretly, or openly I haven’t told him I know, likes to cuddle. He is such a gentleman and he didn’t get offended by my offer to help him with his clothes. I really like being able to joke around with  him, and even though I am super corny, he laughs with me and not at me. I guess what I am saying is I really like my husband, who would’ve thought right?

-----

So apparently while I was in the shower a gift basket came for us. I am not sure what it is but I am excited to opening because so far, everything they have done has been spot on, from picking the most amazing guy for me, to the wedding and reception. This B&B, the room. Everything is just so wonderful that I am not sure they can top it.

-----

Mercy: *sits on the couch looking at the gift basket* Okay I say lets open this bad boy up!

Sam: *rubs his hands together* Let’s do it.

Mercy: *laughs taking the bow off the basket and opening the plastic. She hands him a card and pulls out a Husband shirt and a Wife shirt for them.* See now we have to be that couple who wears theses in public. These too. *Holds up a pair of “Just married” Sandals*

Sam: *Laughs- opening the card* “Congratulations Sam and Mercedes on your wedding!  Hope you enjoy your honeymoon in Puerto Rico!” Holy Crap, yes! *fist pumps* This is great, I’ve never been there.

Mercy: *looks sad* Puerto Rico? No! Thats where I went on my Honeymoon the first time I did this. *She looks over to Sam trying not to smile* Maybe we can trade with someone?

Sam: *Smile fades -looks concerned.*  Ummm… *Scratches his nose.*  Sure, we can try that I guess.  So you’ve already been married once?

Mercy: *shakes her head with a laugh* I’m joking! No I haven’t been married before, I haven’t even been engaged, I just wanted to trick the trickster. * leans in and kisses his cheek* I am excited to be going to Puerto Rico with you!

Sam: *pokes his lip out* You got me. Ha ha. Very funny.  Do you think we’ll travel well together? Are you nervous?

Mercy: *smiles leaning in and kisses him softly* I think its going to be fun, and I don’t see why we wouldn’t travel  well together…  but as for being nervous? I am extremely nervous just because I have never been to Puerto Rico before.

-----

[Sam and Mercedes continue to talk about their trip.  Easily smiling and laughing together excitedly.]

Sam: She got me… Now I’ve got to get her back. This will be our first time traveling or doing anything together.  But I’m excited. I get to vacation in the sun and spend time getting to know my wife at the same time.  This is just what we need to get a little closer to each other.

-----

We are going to have lunch with our families.  I’m a little nervous.  Her family was really welcoming to me at the reception.  I think we have a lot in come, and got along well.  Her brothers seem like really great guys.  However, I’m concerned about how my mother is going to behave today.  She had some not so sweet words for Mercedes yesterday.  I’m hoping she has a more positive attitude today.  I guess we’ll see.

-----

[Scene opens Sam and Mercedes walking towards the dining room to meet up with her parents and brothers, and Sam’s mom and sister.]

Mercy: *stops walking and looks at Sam* Are you nervous? Cause my palms are sweaty…

Sam: A little but it’s going to be fine. *Kisses the back of her hand.* We did the hard part yesterday.

Mercy: I know but your mom doesn’t like me and things are always different in the harsh reality of day…

Sam:  My mother likes you fine.  She just doesn’t care for the way we got married. Besides you’re surrounded by you family.  I think she’ll be on her best behavior.  And remember leave her to me.*Squeezes Mercedes hand and walks into the room.*

Mercy: I guess I just needed to hear you say that. *smiling, she takes a deep breath as they walk toward towards their families* Hi guys! *walks towards her parents, hugging them*

Amelia: *walks towards Mercy and Sam hugging her daughter.* Merce look at you, you’re practically glowing. I take it you have a “fun” night. *moves to hug Sam and whispers* Its starting so just let em rant it will be over soon  

Sam: *Smiles, hugging his mother-in-law, nodding as she speaks* Okay. *He whispers to her.*  

Malcolm:*Stands*  Glowing what does that mean?

Michael: *folds his arms angrily* It means something happened between those two last night.

Marcus: Something we don’t think we approved of.

-----

Okay so these fools think they are funny, my brothers mean well but they talk too much. I just hope they don’t spill the beans about me to Sam before I had the chance to tell him… I am just not ready to find out which guy he is, the one who accepts me being a virgin or the one who doesn’t.

-----

Sam: *Grins while moving over to his mother and sister, kissing them both on the cheeks.*  Good afternoon. *He whispers rubbing theirs backs with a smile.*

Mercy: *throws her hands up in frustration* Oh My Gosh will you three just stop it already. Something did happen last night, we got to know each other, we talked and then we went to sleep. *she moved over to hug her father* Oh and for the record if something did happen I am a grown woman and now married so let go already.

Michael: Pops do you hear this?

Richard: I do and I think you three need to mind your business and leave Binks here alone. *kisses her forehead then moves to shake Sam’s hand* How are you this morning Sam?

Mercy: *walks over to Joanna and Sabrina* Good Afternoon. Its great seeing you guys again.

Sabrina: *gives Mercedes a bright. Then stands  giving her a hug.*

Joanna: Likewise.

Sam: *Moves to Mr. Jones extending his hand.* Mr. Jones, nice to see you again sir.  

Richard:  Call me Richard please, we are family now.

Sam: Yes Sir. I’ll remember that.  *smiles, giving the man another handshake then moves to the head of the table taking his seat..*

Mercy: *hugged Sabrina and nodded to Joanna taking her seat.” So how is everyone today?

Malcolm: Obviously not as happy as you… so Sam what exactly did you and my sister talk about yesterday? I mean inquiring minds want to know?

Sam: *Glances at Mercedes* Well, we talked about our careers and families mostly.

Marcus: *smirks* Yeah we know what mostly means

Sam: It means we “mostly” talked about why you guys are so nosy.

Mercy: Okay stop it!

Malcolm: Merce we are just messing with you chill… *looks at Sam* You seem like a good dude and I know given that you have a little sister that this is all in fun, if we were really worried about you, you wouldn’t have been alone in the room with our sister

Sabrina: Oh he knows.  He’s as bad as having three brothers all by himself.

Sam: *Smirks* I totally understand.  I would have been the same way if this was Sabrina.  What I’d like to know is what you guys thought when I came  out of  these doors?

Malcolm: *laughs* Honestly I wondered what you would do when you saw Merce. We were raised to see the person not the color, and what I saw was a man who might hurt my sister, but then you introduced yourself to us and I thought okay, that shows he is a good dude. But when I saw how you calmed Merce, held her hand and was concerned with her, I knew you were someone who had the potential to be great for my baby sister.

Marcus: I thought you would of ran from the hills once pops came out to be honest. He is an intimidating man.

Amelia: If I may, I thought my daughter hit the jackpot because you are one handsome man I must say. What were your thoughts and the thoughts of your family when Mercedes walked out?

Sam: *took Mercedes’ hand.*  We were in a nerve racking situation. If I could help make this easier for her it was my duty and pleasure. *His cheeks turned red at Amelia’s words.* Why thank you ma’am.  You have a gorgeous daughter.  I’m the one who hit the  .  

Sabrina: I thought she was way to classy for my hick brother.

Mercy: *blushed at Sam’s words and smiled at Sabrina* I just personally can’t believe how right this process was, how right they were about Sam and I. Guys, so Sam owns his own Remodeling and Design company.

Joanna: *looks around carefully.*And what do you do for a living, Sweetie?

Sam: *Smiled, but gives his mother a side long look.*

Mercy: *looks at Joanna* I am the owner and head baker for “Have Mercy’s Treats” a local bakery. We are mostly known for Wedding Cakes and things of that nature but we have it all.

Richard: *clears his throat* Not many people have the Entrepreneurial spirit. Where they can run their own business. Mercy, unlike her brothers didn’t want to go the traditional job route so she went to pastry school during the day and studied at night to get her Masters in Business, that way she didn’t have to rely on anyone but herself, so to see someone else who has the same spirit as hers, you are right you are a good match.

Sam: Thank you again sir.  I get it from my mother.  After my father passed away, she started her own design company in our home town.

Amelia: *looks towards Joanna* I am so sorry for your loss, you must be very Proud of Sam, from what I can tell he is a wonderful man, perfect for Merce.

Joanna: *smiled to sweetly*  Thank you, but my husband died along time ago.  Umm, Yes. I am very proud of my son. Just as I can see you are very proud of you daughter.  She seems like quite a lovely woman. But Sam being perfect for your daughter?… I don’t know about that.  My question to you is, how can you be so sure?  Mrs. Jones, how long did your husband court you?

Sam: Mother!

Joanna: *Holds her hand up to Sam.* I’m still your mother. Christopher!

Amelia: I have no problem answering that. I met my husband 31 years ago. We dated three months before he asked me to marry him. We were together as man and wife for 4 months before we learned we were pregnant with Malcolm. No we didn’t have some long courtship, but I knew the moment I laid eyes on Richard that he was meant for me.

Joanna: But you knew him.  He courted you.  Even though you felt he was the one for you immediately, you didn’t run off and get married. (she stressed)   You still took sometime to know each other. You and I know that marriage started on the perfect footing are hard. (Looking to Sam.) And one started with a stranger is ridiculous. (Looking back to Amelia) So again I ask how do any of us know if these two are good for each other.  They don’t even know that themselves.  What I do know is they are playing house, just on a deeper level.  

Mercy: *looks at Joanna* Why? Why is it so ridiculous? Why is it wrong to want to have faith…

Joanna:  You don’t know the first thing about my son.  That’s why?  Until yesterday if you’d pass each other on the street you would have even taken a second look.  

Amelia: What I do know, is that my daughter deserves to find out if this process actually works, what I know is your thoughts are an opinion just like mines. It could fail, but so could mines, so could the relationship of a couple who have known each other for years. But it could work, and the fact is theses are two very grown adults who made a choice, and no matter how much of a fuss you make, they are married and you can either deal with it, accept it and try to have a little faith. Or you can try to come between them and cause unnecessary drama.

Mercy: *looks around the table, then back to Joanna again shaking her head.* You are right we don’t know each other, and the truth is that if I would have seen Sam on the street I wouldn’t of approached him because I wouldn’t think I was his type. But to say this can’t work because we don’t know each other, thats like saying you won’t be a good mother because you don’t know your child. You may carry that child for nine months but once he or she is born its a learning process for the both of you, and it is hard, you mess up they mess up but it doesn’t make you love them any less. Or if you wanted to adopt child are parents supposed to have a 30 day rule where you take that child in your home and it doesn’t work you give them back? No, you adjust. And I know this is marriage and its kind of different but its the same concept, Sam and I don’t know each other, but we have made a commitment to get to know each other, to make this  work.  

-----

I know this process is hard to believe for some people. That getting married to a stranger is a recipe for disaster, but I choose to believe that there is something here to build off of and I just pray Sam feels the same way, because i have a feeling his mother is just getting started, its gonna be a long brunch.

-----

Joanna: *sipped her Mimosa, looking between mother and daughter.”  I’m not here to make their lives difficult. Yes, she deserves all of those things, but I’ve never been one to sugar coat my opinions and I refuse to start now.  This is a “getting to know you brunch,” so you might as well know where I stand. Marriage is difficult at best without stress. And here you two have heaped a whole wheelbarrow full of that on your heads.  -Playing games.  I know America trivialized marriage to this point. You Samuel should have known better. *Sighs patiently at Mercedes’ words. * The difference my dear is, you know your baby.  You’ve grown attached to him. You’ve got that common ground with your child and that’s what you two don’t have. *Sitting back in her chair hard.*  You thought you weren’t his type, what makes you so sure you are now?”

Amelia: *sits up to speak but Mercy shakes her head* Now you may-

Mercy: Mom don’t. I know that look, its the Im gonna defend my baby look but I am her daughter in law and her questions and feelings are valid. *Turns towards Joanna* I know that this day and age its easy to marry and divorce, I know that people don’t take stock in working towards something. I have never been an outgoing person, never took chances, I have been sheltered basically my whole life by two amazing parents and three very over protective brothers. No marriage is easy and whether I had known Sam for 5 years or 5 minutes our marriage wasn’t going to be easy. *looks at Sam* I say he wasn’t my type because look at him, you can tell how completely amazing he is just by how he holds himself. And I wouldn’t have approached him because guys who look like that often don’t want the shy sheltered girl, they want someone who is more out there. But having talked to him, like I got the chance too I know without a shadow of a doubt that had we dated we would have ended up right here. So you don’t have to like the situation, and honestly you don’t have to like me as his wife, but I am his wife we made this decision and we are going to stick to it. I don’t believe in divorce, I am all in here its as simple as that.

Joanna: *Gives her son a knowing look*  Darlin, them are some real beautiful words…

Sam: *Cuts in with a patient sigh* Enough, you’ve said your peace mom. Now, leave it alone.  If it makes you feel better just imagine we are dating, or living together.  Take the marriage part away for a while until you can handle the thought of it.  Or until we, win you over.  You know me, I never quit once I start something.  I truly don’t understand what your problem is.  And for right now.  No disrespect but I don’t care.  Now everyone here is going to enjoy the rest of this brunch.  I’ll understand if you don’t want to stay.

Mercy: *looks around the table* Can you guys just excuse me for a moment *stands and walks out of sight.*

[Mercedes walks towards the entrance and steps outside. Looking at the camera she sighs,]

Mercy: I had to leave for a minute…it was just…emotions were high and I can tell Ms. Evans is just deadset against this marriage.

Sam: *Excuses himself. Follows Mercedes*  Mercedes? Don’t listen to her.

Mercy: *sighs deeply before turning to Sam* Oh, I’m okay… that was just… a lot i guess

Sam: I’m here, I’m in this with you. More importantly, your family is supporting you.  Remember, let me bare my mother’s weight. She only went after you because she knows she can’t get to me.

Mercy: I don’t like that you and your mom are at odds over this Sam. Family is so important to me and I know it is to you. If I could just talk to her maybe she will see that I am not going to hurt you… I know you said you can handle her but maybe I can do something…

Sam: *Shakes head* No, Mercedes. No. I know my mother.  She needs time and to see us grow together.  

Mercy: Okay Sam I am just not good in these types of situations, I guess we should head back to brunch.

Sam: Don’t worry, I’ll be good enough for the both of us. Sure, let’s go. *Places his hand in the small of her back leading her into the dining room.*

Richard: *looks over seeing Sam and Mercedes returning* Is everything okay Binks?

Sam: Everything is fine Mr… Richard.  *holds Mercedes’ chair for her. He sits, Clearing his throat.”  Tell me, is there any advice you can give, for dealing with Mercedes?

Mercy: *sits down nodding, smiling softly.* I am fine daddy. *turns looking at Sam with a smile* excuse me I am awesome.

Sam: *smiles* Says every woman right before she burns your clothes.

Michael: How much time do you have?

Marcus: Who are you kidding Mike, ain’t enough time in the world to get through that one.

Richard: *shaking his head* Dealing with her in what way? You seem to be doing a fine job already.

Sam: Advice for how to deal with her when she’s upset. *Looks to Mercedes*   What gifts to buy, rather to give her space or bring chocolates. That’s the kind of stuff I need to know.

Malcolm: *sighs sitting up* The thing you need to know about Merce is that it takes a lot for her to be that upset with you, she’s truly one of those people who give you a million and one chances to do better. But when you have upset her there are two different ways to tell how bad it is, if she is upset but still talks to you, you are fine, just plan some romantic outing, she is a hopeless romantic, used to see her ready romance novels in her free time. But if she doesn’t talk to you, its time to bring out the big guns.

Mercy: Just tell all my secrets!

Richard: Its good he wants to know. And its good for us to see that he wants to know. We head back to Colorado tomorrow and Mal and and Mike head to Atlanta. We want to know he knows how to be there for you, like when you are sad, music helps.

Amelia: Or how you really do carry the weight of others on your back, Sam she isn’t all talk, my beautiful daughter really does just want her family, happy. But she is also stubborn.

Sam: *nodded listening.* Thanks, I’m sure all this will come in handy.  Any advice on having a happy marriage?

Richard: *reaches for his wife’s hand* Each marriage is different. The husband and wife both bring something to it. Open communication, is key, you have to be able to listen and speak without judging..

Amelia: And never go to bed angry. Nothing good can come from it.

Sam: Thank you both for the insight. It means a lot.

Mercy: *looks to Sabrina and Joanna* Is there anything about dealing with Sam I should know?

Sabrina: *surprised expression*  He tries to do everything, but refuses to pace himself.  Which will lead to him being overworked and overstressed.   He thinks he knows everything, but really just wants the best for you when he speaks. Oh, and he will listen to you even if he already thinks you’re wrong. So don’t be afraid to speak your mind.

Mercy: *reaches for Sam’s hand* That is really good to know, I have dealt with overstressed, overworked family before so I have so ideas on how to handle that.

Sabrina: Okay enough sappy stuff. Where are you guys going on your honeymoon?

Mercy: *sat up beaming* We just found out this morning we are going to Puerto Rico! I am so excited I have never been out of the United States!

Sabrina: OMG, can I come.  I can fit in your suitcase.  I promise you will never know I’m there.

[Camera pulls back on the room as everyone laughs.]

[Scene opens with the two of them in their bed, cuddled close together.]

Jesse: *opens his eyes and looks over at her* Good morning…

Kitty: *opens eyes and smiles at her new husband* And a good morning to you, too.

Jesse: How’d you sleep?

Kitty: Like I was on a cloud. You?

Jesse: I went to sleep with a beautiful woman in my arms, woke up, and she was still here. Best sleep I’ve had in a very long time. *smile*

-----

Nothing happened last night except for a few shared kisses. I think we’re going to take it slow for a little while. What’s a few days when you have a lifetime?

-----

Kitty: Well, I’m glad I could contribute to that then. *pauses* Think we could just pause this moment and just not go to brunch?

Jesse: *chuckles and shakes his head, moving to stand* No, come on... just think. The sooner we get it over with, the sooner we can leave.

Kitty: True. *sits up in bed* Besides, it’ll give me a chance to ask your mom all about her “little miracle. *smirks*

Jesse: *groans as he walks to the bathroom to brush his teeth* I’m sure she’ll love that.

Kitty: I’m going to warn you now. I will probably tease you mercilessly about that nickname once we know each other a little better. Your mom basically handed me the cutest of holy grails here.

Jesse: *spits into the sink before baring his teeth in the mirror for inspection* Noted. But you do realize that I will be awaiting that same opportunity after I cozy up to your mother and give her my most winning smile. *smiles widely at Kitty to demonstrate*

Kitty: *stands up from the bed and stretches* My family calls me Kitty, and I was their perfect angel growing up. You really think my mom is going to have any embarrassing stories for you? *laughs*

-----

I pride myself on not being easy to embarrass. But my new husband will learn that soon enough. It’s more my family that makes me cringe than things that I’ve actually done.

-----

Jesse: If there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s find a person’s weakness and exploit it. Just give me enough time, and I will know all of the dirt, Kitten.

-----

My wife is very adorable, but she is a worthy adversary. So she must be destroyed of course.

-----

Kitty: I’ll be sure to have my mom bring out the family albums if we’re ever in New York with them. You’re going to need the photos handed to you if you want a chance at that happening. *smirks*

Jesse: I look forward to it. *walks past her, stopping to kiss her cheek* Now, let’s get to brunch?

Kitty: I still think we should skip it, but if you insist.

-----

[Scene cuts away to Jesse and Kitty wheeling their luggage out of the room then cuts to them heading into the restaurant to greet their families who are sitting at a table already.]

-----

So, we’re having brunch with our families this morning before we head off on our honeymoon. And I wouldn’t say that I’m fully dreading it. The way my family reacted to Jesse at our reception killed most of my fears about whether he’d fit in with them or not. But he still hasn’t met my sister, and there was a reason why I was relieved that didn’t happen last night.

-----

Kitty: *takes one of the empty seats at the table* Good morning everybody. I hope you all slept well.

Jesse: *sits in the seat next to Kitty before smiling across the table at his parents*

Bryce: Not as well as I’m sure you guys did. *wiggles eyebrows*

Heather: *slaps Bryce’s shoulder* Don’t be crass. I’m sure no one wants to hear about what they did at the hotel last night.

Bryce: Actually, I’m pretty sure America would love to hear about what they did last night in great detail.

Jesse: *grins smugly at Bryce* Well then, I’m sure the world will really love the fact that...nothing happened last night. We were strangers prior to the wedding. I’m not one for sleeping with a woman on the first date.

Caroline: Jesse has always been a perfect gentleman.

Henry: That’s right. He was raised to always respect women.

Jesse: It’s true. I wasn’t even allowed to use unsavory language in front of women.

Victoria: *takes a sip of her mimosa* What a perfect, little gentleman my daughter has been matched with. How lucky are we?

Adam: Very lucky, dear.

Kitty: *rolls eyes* Enough about what didn’t happen last night. Someone pass me the baby. I need some quality time with my little Mikey since I didn’t get to see him at all last night before you guys left.

[The baby is passed from Heather through the other family members until Kitty gets a hold of her nephew and situates him so he’s sitting on her lap and facing her.]

Heather: Sorry about that. Michael was being fussy, and Avery was complaining that her dress was itchy, so we figured we better get them back to the hotel and into bed. You know how kids are.

Jesse: I can’t say that I do, but I will take your word for it.

Caroline: When Jesse was about that age, he really loved getting dressed up and spending time with the adults. I always said it was because he was an old soul. He was our little surprise miracle. Just such a little gentleman, opening doors and helping elderly people cross the street. He was such a different child than his brother and sister.

Jesse: *gives Kitty a tight smile*

-----

My older siblings and parents have a very strained relationship, which was why neither were in attendance at the wedding. Growing up, I was never particularly close with either, but we’ve been slowly repairing our relationship.

-----

Kitty: *smiles back at Jesse before turning to face his mom* Well, I can’t wait to hear more about my little miracle of a husband. I’m sure you have so many stories that you could tell me.

Jesse: Don’t encourage her.

Caroline: Oh he’s just being shy. When his brother and sister were near adolescence, I really wanted another child, but the doctors told us we were pretty much done in that department. Imagine approaching your fortieth birthday and finding out...the impossible has happened. *smiles over at Jesse*

Jesse: *beams back at his mother*

Kitty: You’ll have to tell me more the next time we’re together. I wouldn’t want to hog the entire conversation with stories about Jesse’s childhood since I’m sure that we’re the only two here who would actually enjoy that conversation. *starts making faces at the baby in her arms*

Victoria: We could always talk about when you’ll be giving me some more grandchildren since you’re so smitten with your sister’s kids.

Kitty: *rolls her eyes* I just met my husband yesterday, mom. We haven’t really had the time to discuss having a family yet.

Jesse: However, I am more than open to the idea of children. I fully intend to have at least two if not three. So I assure you that it will happen, but we are certainly not in any rush. I would like to have at least a few months, or maybe a year, to enjoy just being a couple.

Kitty: I’m with Jesse here. We need to get to know each other better before we start procreating. It’s way too soon to even start thinking about having kids of our own. I mean, if Heather wants to give me one of her kids, I won’t say no to that, but really the Wilde child you should be badgering is Bryce for his inability to settle down.

Victoria: Oh don’t you worry about that. We’ve had many conversations about that, and I’m sure there will be many more.

-----

The number one way to get my mother off of my back about anything is to give her some sort of adult beverage and turn her onto one of my siblings. She already had the mimosa, so it was almost too easy. *laughs*

-----

Caroline: I have to say I’m pretty eager for more grandchildren as well. All of mine are nearing marriage age, and before I’m a great-grandmother, I’d like to see Jesse start a family of his own.

Henry: But as the kids said, they aren’t in a rush. I think Jesse is wise to want to wait. Children aren’t something you rush. *looks between Jesse and Kitty* So where are you going for the honeymoon.

-----

Thank you, Dad, for changing the subject.

-----

[A PA shows up with a gift basket and a note that Jesse takes.]

Jesse: It’s funny that you ask…*opens the note and reads* Dear, Jesse and Kitty, congratulations on starting your journey as husband and wife. May you honeymoon to St. Augustine, Florida be the start of a long and happy life together. Love The Experts. Well, I’ve never been to St. Augustine, but I trust that it will be nice.

Kitty: I’ve never been there either. Should be an adventure for us.

Jesse: I’m glad I packed my shorts. *grins at Kitty then looks into the basket* Oh good, they gave us lots of sunscreen.

Kitty: And it’s a good thing, too. There’s no way I’m spending my first few weeks of wedded bliss burnt to a crisp.

Jesse: I’ll make sure you are well covered. *chuckles*

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Apologies about Wednesday...

I know I promised that the episodes would be up on Wednesday, and then Tuesday night happened. It hit all of us players very hard. It was a terrible evening, and Wednesday was just a day where we needed to mourn. So I apologize for not posting them, but tomorrow I will get them all posted and get us back on track.

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Due to the World Series...

Actually it’s just due to the real lives of a few players that the ep won’t be up this week but the next. I do apologize for the delay. We should be caught up by that point. We appreciate your patience. 

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Over the Threshold

[Brittany and Santana walk down the hall hand and hand as the blonde swings their hands between them bouncing excitedly as they walked. They stop in front of the door and Brittany hands Santana the key card.]

BRITTANY: *sings softly* Ooooo, Oooooo, Come inside take off your coat I’ll make you feel at home. Now let’s pour a glass of wine cause now we’re all alone. I’ve been waiting for you girl just let me hold you close to me. Cause I’ve been dying for you girl to make love to me. Girl you make me feel real good. We can do it til we both wake up. Girl you know I’m hooked on you. And this is what I’ll do. I wanna sex you. All night. You make me feel good. I wanna rub you down. I wanna sex you up.

SANTANA: *slides the key card in the slot and turns around, and with a goofy grin, pulls Brittany into a close embrace and sings along* Let me take off all your clothes. Disconnect the phone so nobody knows. Let me light a candle, so that we can make it better. *pulls Brittany into the hotel room and looks at the camera following them* Makin’ love until we drown! *slams the door*

[Quinn and Puck head down the hall to their hotel room, and Puck uses the keycard to open the door to the suite]

Puck: *looks back over her shoulder at Quinn* Should I carry you over the threshold?

Quinn: *shakes her head and laughs* No, thank you. We’ll both fall and you’d drown in my dress. *laughs again*

Puck: *raises an eyebrow and smirks* Excuse you. I can lift you just fine. Don’t make me sell you tickets to the gun show. *flexes her arms*

Quinn: Fine! *laughs* Carry me then. *sticks her tongue out at Puck and laughs again*

Puck: *sweeps her arms under Quinn’s legs and behind her back, stumbling just a little when she lifts Quinn* I got you. You’re light as a feather. *carries her quickly over the threshold into the room*

Quinn: *shrieks when Puck scoops her up and holds on tight. Laughs and then pecks Puck’s cheek once they’re in the room* Thank you for saying that. *pecks her cheek with another kiss*

Puck: *lowers her to the floor and looks around at the room, then walks over to the bed* Well this is nice…*heads over to the bucket with champagne and the plate of chocolate covered strawberries* I hope you’re not allergic to strawberry because I’d hate to have to eat them all in front of you.

Quinn: *follows after Puck and lightly touches some of the rose petals on the bed* Wow… *looks up at her and sees the strawberries and champagne* I am not. Those look good. *holds onto a few rose petals and approaches Puck* Want me to feed you one? *laughs*

Puck: *raises an eyebrow and sits down on the bed* I mean...I’m not gonna say no to a beautiful woman feeding me…

[Quinn laughs and sets the rose petals in hand on the tray and picks up a strawberry. She approaches Puck and holds out the strawberry to her lip as she bites her own, bottom lip. She glances at Puck’s lips, watching her]

Puck: *looks into Quinn’s eyes as she takes a bite, ducking a little to catch the juices, reaching for a napkin with a laugh* That was the opposite of sexy.

Quinn: *laughs and helps get Puck a napkin* No, it’s good… *sets the strawberry down on the tray* Let me go change though before I get strawberry or chocolate on my beautiful dress.

Puck: *laughs and watches Quinn for a moment before standing up and reaching for the buttons on her shirt* Yeah, that was another reason for my wardrobe change. I wanted to be able to eat without worrying when I was eating. *moves across the room, looking away from Quinn as she undresses, grabbing a t-shirt and leaving her panties on before moving back to the bed*

Quinn: *moves to suitcase and pulls out clothes, sets them down. Struggles for a moment trying to unzip her dress. glances at Puck, then turns toward her* Can you, um, get this zipper?

Puck: *walks across the room and reaches for the zipper, eying up Quinn’s skin* That dress was beautiful, but it didn’t do your body justice. *takes a step back*

Quinn: *licks lips and chews on bottom lip then nods* But I felt pretty in it. *smiles at Puck and clutches the dress to herself to keep it from falling* I’m going to… in the bathroom… *bites lip and grabs clothes, heading into the bathroom*

Puck: And I’ll be here...sipping on champagne. *moves to the bed and climbs under the covers, sipping from her glass*

Quinn: *emerges from the bathroom, changed into her nighttime outfit and carrying her wedding dress bunched up in her arms. Sets her dress to the side and grabs her champagne, sliding into bed beside Puck* This is weird. *laughs and sips drink*

Puck: *watches Quinn walk towards the bed with a grin on her face* What? Why’s it weird?

Quinn: Because we’ve only met this morning and we’re in bed together. *starts to laugh and takes another drink from her glass*

Puck: That’s never happened to you before? Were you a virgin when you got married or something? *leans up onto her arm to look over at Quinn*

Quinn: *raises an eyebrow* It’s happened to you? How many times? *smile fades slightly, nods and looks away* Yeah, he wanted to wait. And we started dating when I was twenty so… it just never happened before that.

Puck: *shrugs* I haven’t kept count. It’s not like it happens every week or anything...or did I mean. You’ll be the last. *finishes her champagne and sets the glass aside* That’s cool. I mean I respect that. *looks at her for a long moment* So that means you’ve never been with a woman before?

Quinn: Yes, I will be. *nods and then finishes champagne as well, sets the glass aside* Yeah, I mean, it was all abstinence in high school and I didn’t want it to mean nothing when I went to college, plus they still preached abstinence there… But it was my ex that decided for us that we would wait. *nods again, offers a smile* Yeah, I mean, no, I haven’t been, I hope that’s not… I hope it’s… okay. *bites bottom lip*

Puck: *smiles and reaches out to run her finger over Quinn’s arm* It’s fine. I mean...it doesn’t bother me at all. We have a lifetime to make sure you get as good at being with a woman as I am. *laughs a little* But like...there’s no pressure, okay? I’m just kind of happy about how this has all worked out so far. It’s kind of like a dream.

Quinn: *lets out a breath and smiles up at Puck* I like the way you think. *laughs lightly* Yeah, no, I really appreciate that. It does feel like a dream… a very good dream. *licks lips and then pauses before leaning in to kiss Puck softly, cupping her cheek. Breaks the kiss, stays close to Puck* I really like that I can do that whenever I want. *laughs softly*

Puck: I’m pretty good with my brain among other things. *eyes flutter shut as they kiss* I like that you can too. So feel free. My lips are very friendly.

Quinn: *laughs again lightly and kisses Puck twice more* Maybe we should… um… get some time… alone. *glances over toward the cameras*

Puck: *laughs and pushes the camera away* Goodnight….

[Ends on the door closing with a do not disturb sign]

I am feeling good, the reception was fun.  It helped to break down more of the tension between me and Mercedes.  I know sex on your wedding night is customary but, I’m not expecting to get any… Tonight. *Laughs* We haven’t even kissed yet.  But we seem to be getting along well.  And for right now that’s enough.  Sex… isn’t everything. *Laughs* It’s not!  I mean it’s important but, I can wait until we have gotten to know each other better.  I’m willing to take it slow. Mercedes being comfortable is what is important.  

-----

So it’s the end of the night and it’s so weird. Today has felt like a first date, you know? And instead of getting kissed goodnight, I am sharing a room, and a bed with this man. I mean of course there is not going to be any sex, I’m not ready for that. Oh yeah so my big bad secret of the night? I’m a virgin, and not all that sure how Sam would take it. I’ve told two guys I was dating that I was a virgin, on was so thrilled he tried to convince me to let him be my first, and the second literally just left, never to be heard from again. Sam seems like a great guy, but at the end of the day, I don’t know him, I can just hope he accepts it.

-----

Sam: Here we go. The honeymoon suite.  *holding up Mercedes train.*  I wonder how many honeymoon suite they have?

Mercy: Its a bed and breakfast type place so I think maybe one or two. *They get the the door and she looks at him* I know they say you are supposed to carry me over but you don’t have to if you don’t want too.

Sam: That kind of takes the specialness out of it. *takes out the key card* hmmm, I didn’t even think about that. *Unlocking the door he pushes it open, spinning the short woman into his arms he lifts her bridal style and carries her across the threshold.*  Wow, forget my earlier comment this is nice.  

Mercy: *screams playfully as he picks her up and carries her into the room.* Well aren’t you the true definition of Tall, strong and sexy! *She teased* Wow is right. This place is gorgeous. Its just perfect.

Sam: Hush woman, I got you. *He laughs*  Well, what can I say, there ain’t no short cuts to sexy. None. *He smiles* Look at this, they’ve thought of everything, wine, strawberries and even a rose petal heart on the bed. Beautiful, you and the roses. *He says then tosses her on the bed.*

Mercy: Maybe not, but I heard there was a carpool lane though. You don’t gotta tell me, it looks like I am benefiting from your sexy right now. *she held onto his neck as they both looked around* Flirt! *Was all she could get out before he tossed her onto the bed, because her as we’re wrapped around his neck, she pulled him with her.*

Sam: *Laughs* Hmm, so there’s that feisty side. *toppled down landing entangled with Mercedes. He ends up above her. Smiling down at her, he kisses her nose. Then, rolls onto his back, laughing* Let’s crack open that bottle of champagne.

Mercy: *sighs sitting up on her elbows* We can if you are drinking it alone, I don’t really drink. Well let’s scratch that, I have never had a drink would be more accurate.

Sam:  What? No, I hate drinking alone. *Sits up soberly* How did I miss that?  Is this a lifestyle choice?  

Mercy:  *shook her head no* No its just I have never had a drink. By the time I hit 21 I was so focused on my craft that my free time went to learning more. Then when I moved here, I went out but never had that urge to even try it.

Sam: *shakes his head* Now that is interesting. You never hung out and partied with friends. Hell, I had my first drink by the time I was 18. Before that. It’s okay.  You’re not really missing anything by not drinking. It’s a good thing in the end, you can enjoy yourself without getting wasted.    

Mercy: *shrugged as she turned to her side facing Sam* Well when I hit freshman year, Malcolm was a Jr. Marcus was a Sophomore and Michael joined with me. Anytime I thought, I wanted to do something, they cut that short. Then when college came around I went to a Culinary Institute during the day to get my Bachelors in Baking and and Pastry Arts, then I took evening and online courses to get my Masters in Business. I didn’t have time to really do any of that. *bites her lower lip* So were you like a “bad boy” going to parties and getting wasted?

-----

I was really shocked when she said she’d never taken a drink before. I felt bad that at the reception, i didn’t notice.  She was having great time along with everyone else.  It did make me a little nervous.  She so sweet. I feel like I’m married to the last good girl on earth.  I almost feel like I should wrap her in swaddling cloth. Almost.

-----

Sam: Again, they did their homework. I spent a lot of time helping my mother build her business back home, when I was in high school.  Between that and sort of acting like a second parent to my sister, I didn’t have much down time either. *Rolling his shoulder* Not, a bad boy.   But I found time to hang out every once in awhile.  It was college that gave me the most freedom. *Stands* So no champagne for you.  How about I bring you the chocolate covered strawberries? But first, I’m going to check out the bathroom.

Mercy: That is pretty awesome, that you helped your mom like that. Family helping family always makes a difference. But I do understand where you are coming from. I guess I was just really focused and I hadn’t been going out so I am not missing anything. *beams* Now that I can eat.  If the tub is anything like this room I am sure we will be impressed.

*Sam walks into the bathroom. Emerging a few seconds later with a huge smile on his face.*

Sam: It’s a Jacuzzi. I’m taking a bath for sure.

Mercy: Ohhh I would love one too, how big is it? *she got off the bed and went to look at it but stopped.* I uh I didn’t mean it like I would join you I just meant *she stopped talking and scolded herself internally if she made things awkward*

Sam: *Grabs her around the waist from behind.* Hush. Oh, so you want to take a bath with your hubby. Fair warning I don’t have trunks, *He laughs loosening his grip.*  I’m just kidding, it’s the alcohol talking.

Mercy: *felt her pulse race as Sam grabbed her around her waist.* Its a very alluring thought for sure. *she said honestly then laughed at his words.* Yeah I don’t have a suit either but I see what alcohol does to you. *she turned towards him* So should we change then eat or stay in our clothes?

Sam: Ouch, that’s just wrong.  I think we should definitely get in the hot tub, if you don’t have a suit. *Swaying with her in his arms slightly.* I have done my time, I need to get out of this suit. Want me to get your bag too?

Mercy: *wraps her arms around his neck with a smile as they sway together.* I have a feeling that you are serious about that… *she glanced at her bag then back at Sam not wanting that particular moment to end.* How about you just do a little more time in this suit, though you can get out of that jacket. *she reached down removing his suit jacket and tossed it on the bed, then went back and wrapped her arms around his neck again*

Sam: I am. I’d never lie about such things. *smiling softly* Okay. another few minute in this just for you. *Letting her remove his jacket, his left on arm around her waist as she threw his jacket on the bed. Running his hand up her back. Sam leans in and kisses her softly on the lips.*

Mercy: Yeah? *she felt her breath hitch at the thought. She blushed at his words and was shocked when he kissed her. She looked up at him for a moment, then stood on her toes to kiss him back, slightly deeper than his kiss.*

-----

I woke up this morning a single man. By this evening I was a married man.  And now… I’m an optimistic one.  The more we talk it becomes obvious why they matched us. I think she could potentially balance me out. And maybe I can bring her out of her shell a little.  

-----

So, today was my wedding day and it started out with me feeling nervous and anxious, I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. Then I see my future husband and everything just falls together. The wedding was awkward, which is to be expected considering I had never even met Sam before. The reception was fun and emotional in a great way… and the wedding night… *her voice trails off as she blushes* I know most wedding nights end in the couples… you know making love for the first time… its how I saw my wedding night, but I married a stranger so that was not going down…but how we did end our wedding night… it couldn’t have been better. *Looks off the side biting her lower lip, then looks back at the camera* Also my husband is an amazing kisser. My Husband… it still seems a little unrealistic, but I honestly couldn’t be happier.

Dude! They gave us an ACTUAL tree house. Isn’t that badass! -----

This treehouse was unreal! It was an actual tree house, and it was all ours! -----

MARLEY: So that means we’ll be alone, huh?

RYDER: Uh… *looks at camera* I suppose so. *looks back at Marley* Hey, come here!

MARLEY: *glances over at camera* Yeah.. I guess so.. *kinks eyebrow* Oh? Okay..

RYDER: *wraps an arm around waist and faces the camera* One last photo op? *smiles cheekily*

MARLEY: *cocks head to the side* Okay.. I guess I am. *leans into him and smiles*

RYDER: *Turns back to Marley and kisses her on the forehead* -----

And so, the first day of the rest of our lives, begins.

So after the reception we’re both ready for a little quiet time. And I think we deserve that as a victory prize after avoiding having to formally introduce him to my sister until tomorrow. Right now, all I want to do is put on the comfiest pajamas I own and get to know my new husband a little bit better.

-----

[Kitty and Jesse are shown standing outside of a hotel room.]

Kitty: Okay, I think this one is ours.

-----

Okay, so we're finally to the part of the night I've been looking forward to. Kitty and I finally have a chance to be alone, and it's our wedding night. I'm not saying I want anything to happen if she's not comfortable, but if something did happen, I wouldn't be against it.

-----

Jesse: *checks the room number and nods* I think so…*takes the key and opens the door* Shall I carry you over the threshold?

Kitty: *smiles* I would be insulted if you didn’t.

Jesse: *leans down and lifts Kitty into his arms, carrying her into the room* Our second official step to becoming the St. Jameses.

Kitty: *laughs as he picks her up and clings to him before kissing his cheek* The second of many on this new journey.

Jesse: *sets her to her feet to walk over to the bed* Well, this is rather cliche, but it looks nice all the same.

Kitty: It could be worse. They could have a vibrating, heart-shaped bed like the ones in the Sims games. *laughs* But it’s nice. *looks over at the table* And it looks like they’ve provided us with a little midnight snack.

-----

She’s right. It could be worse...and a vibrating, heart-shaped bed would’ve made me head for the hills. The fact that she gets that makes think this could work.

-----

Jesse: That is scarily accurate. *laughs a little and loosens his tie* Their taste in sparkling wine and desserts is impressive, I must say.

Kitty: *moves to sit down on the edge of the bed and takes off her shoes* I have to agree. They do know how to treat their newlyweds here.

Jesse: *pulls his tie off and starts to unbutton his shirt* Speaking of newlyweds, how  are you feeling about tonight? I mean...I don’t want you to feel pressured.

Kitty: As attractive as you are, nothing is going happen below the belt tonight. I never sleep with anyone the day that I meet them. I need that emotional connection first. That’s not to say nothing will happen tonight. We just won’t round the bases.

Jesse: *holds up his hands* Like I said, there’s no pressure. I was just wondering where your head is on this. I can be good with seeing where we’ll end up tonight or like making out. Whatever you want to do.

Kitty: Seeing where we end up sounds good. So, maybe you could come over here and help me get out of this dress so I can put on something a little more comfortable?

Jesse: *walks across the room with a grin* I think I can handle that.

-----

What? Just because I’m not sleeping with him tonight doesn’t mean I can’t give him a little preview of what’s in store later on down the road.

-----

Kitty: *stands up from the bed and turns her back to Jesse* I just need you to undo the button at the top and then the zipper for me. I can’t really work them myself.

Jesse: *whistles lowly as her skin and lingerie are exposed* Not a problem...that’s what I’m here for. To lend a helping hand…

Kitty: *smirks before turning to face him* I should go put my pajamas on. Can’t expose too much of my body on national television.

-----

Is it time for the cameras to leave?

----

[Scene changes to them both in pajamas lying in bed.]

Jesse: It’s nice to finally be alone and able to relax..

Kitty: I couldn’t have said it better myself. I’m ready for a much needed break from my family.

Jesse: Well, I think technically that we’re family now.

Kitty: That’s true. So I guess it’s our family that I need a break from. Specifically my side of the family, but everyone we’re related to can definitely go away for a little while.

Jesse: I’m inclined to agree. I guess it’s a good thing we’ll be getting away on a honeymoon soon. I wonder where we’re going.

Kitty: Somewhere where we can have some fun and get to know each other better I hope. It’s finally starting to set in that we’re actually married, and I know nothing about you.

Jesse: Well, feel free to ask me. I’m an open book, but maybe not tonight because I’m tired and this is like a first date almost. So I’d rather spend my time doing other, more fun things.

Kitty: *smirks over at him* Oh yeah? And exactly what kind of fun things did you have in mind?

Jesse: How about I put the “Do Not Disturb” sign and then I’ll come back and tell you.

Kitty: Looks like someone’s mind is only on one thing tonight. I can’t say I blame you though. Maybe you should go take care of that.

[Camera pans to outside of the room and Jesse putting the sign on the door.]

Jesse: *waves at the camera* Goodnight. *closes the door*

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

And Here Come Their Families...

[Brittany and Santana enter the tented area designated for their reception. The twinkle lights that hung high lit the darkening area as the sun set, as guests talked and laughed amongst themselves.]

KELLY: *walks over using her crutches*

BRITTANY: Chicken! *turns to Santana* Chicken this is my wife, Santana. Wife, this is my little sister Kelly.

KELLY: ‘Sup *nods her head upward* So you married my sister? You see these crutches these are lethal weapons. *squints eyes looking very serious before laughing* I’m totally just messing with you. Welcome to the family and all that Jazz. Britt’s the best so consider yourself very lucky, but you’ll figure that out eventually. *sticks her tongue out and smiles at her sister*

[Santana smiles at Brittany and her sister’s interaction and holds a hand out for Kelly to take.]

SANTANA: I can already tell she’s special. *looks at Brittany* I will do my best for her.

WHITNEY: *walks up and glares at her youngest daughter before turning to smile at Santana* Are you scaring our new daughter-in-law? *moves into hug her newest family member.* You look so beautiful, sweetheart. I hope you and my Brittany are good to one another. My husband is around here somewhere but he is already a fan of yours. *smiles*

SANTANA: *returns Whitney’s hug, then pulls away to speak* Oh, really? Thank you! And what have I done to earn his favor, so quickly?

WHITNEY: Because our Britt looked so happy up there with you. Anyone who can put a smile on our daughters’ faces like that automatic favorites. *smiles softly*

[Mack sneaks up behind Brittany and wraps an arm around her shoulders.]

“THE” MACK: Hi. I’m the Mack. You treat my girl well, alright? You got some long legs. Be sure to wrap them around Tana, often. You got me?

BRITTANY:*without much thought or care about who it is leans into the hug* Hello. *turns and smiles* I’m Brittany! It’s nice to meet you. And I will do my best! *salutes with a serious expression before looking down at her own legs and smiling* I totally got you. It’s a deal!

[Pierce finally walks over after his wife and youngest daughter have walked away.]

PIERCE: *moves quickly over to Brittany’s side* I can find your mother. Have you seen there are some cookies over there and they are amazing. *nods and looks to the table the cookies are placed in*

BRITTANY: Dad! *points not-so-discreetly to Santana* Wife, this is my dad Pierce Pierce.  Dad this is the hottie I married, Santana! *claps excitedly*

PIERCE: Sorry Rabbit, you should go try those cookies *whispers before turning to Santana* Daughter! *wraps Santana in a warm hug* it’s nice to finally meet you. Brittany had told us nothing about you. *laughs at his own joke* You ladies enjoy yourselves.  I’m going to get some more cookies. *turns back to Brittany* When you see your mother again tell her I need her purse.

SANTANA: It’s nice to meet you Pierce. Or Mister Pierce. Your wife just ran off with your other daughter.

-----

Her family is very sweet… I’m just glad none of them are gonna meet my abuela.

-----

PIERCE: You can call me dad! Or Senior daddy-O. Uh, or Pierce whatever you want. *hugs Santana and kisses her on the cheek* I’ll save you some cookies.

[Santana bursts into laughter.]

-----

Never, have I found cultural ignorance more adorable, in my life.

-----

SANTANA: Cookies? Yes, please, Senior Daddy-O!

[Victor saunters over.]

VICTOR: Brittany! I thought I’d come to meet you, before my wife latches her claws on to you. I’m Victor, Santana calls me Papa, but you can call me what you like. *opens his arms to invite a hug*

BRITTANY: *wraps her arms tightly around her new father-in-law* It’s nice to meet you, Papa Victor! And Thanks for Santana. *Looks at Santana with a bright smile* I can already tell you and your wife did a good job.

VICTOR: Well, I’d like to think so. *hugs Santana* You be good to her, Mija!

BRITTANY: *smiles at the sweet interaction between Santana and her dad* Oh I bet she will, Papa Victor. *winks at Santana*

SANTANA: Papa, aren’t you supposed to be telling that to her?

VICTOR: Maybe, so. But I told you. *winks and walks off*

[Santana rolls her eyes and grabs her wife by her waist and holds her close.]

SANTANA: Come on! Let’s go find our seats. Then I have to get changed into my suit. Dresses are not really my thing.

BRITTANY: *rests the tips of her fingers gently on Santana’s wrist* Oh yeah, we should sit there are toasts and stuff to get and food! I’m starving. Aaaannnd I get to shove cake in your face. *another wink before she turns taking Santana’s hand in her own and tugging Santana toward their table.* I can’t wait to see your suit. You’re really beautiful so you could probably wear a sack and look awesome but suits are super sexy.  

-----

You know what suit is the sexiest, birthday suit. I bet my … wife *giggles* looks amazing in hers. *waggles brow*

-----

SANTANA: That, they are. They also make me feel powerful. So do beautiful women. *leans in to whisper something inaudible, in Brittany’s ear*

BRITTANY: *bites her lip and smiles* You should probably go change then. Powerful woman are my favorite to dance with, and I plan on making you dance with me soon.

[Santana scurries off and returns after an amount of time, in a grey suit. She makes her way toward Brittany and strikes a pose, hands on her hips, with all her weight thrown to one side.]

SANTANA: Whatcha think, wifey?

BRITTANY: You look… *licks her lips and smirks* pretty good, wife. *giggles* And by that I mean so hot I can’t even stand it.

SANTANA: *scoffs* Pretty good? You mean, I spent forever looking for the blouse that shows just the right amount of cleavage, *leans forward to display herself* and these pants that make my ass pop, *turns around to demonstrate* and you think I look “pretty good”? *she sounds upset, but keeps a smile on her face, as she speaks*

BRITTANY: *eyes Santana as she puts herself on display then smirks* I think … *licks her lips* I think you’re so beautiful it almost makes my eyes hurt. It doesn’t matter if you have a particular amount of cleavage showing or if your pants are hugging that very nice ass of yours just right or not, you’ll be so beautiful I can barely stand it.

SANTANA: *smirks* That’s exactly what I wanted to hear. *sits on Brittany’s lap*

[Carmen stands with mic in hand gives her speech. She wipes away tears before handing the mic to Kelly]

KELLY: Yo people. So, this is kind of a unique situation. I always knew I’d be giving a speech at my sister’s wedding, but I thought I would definitely also know her spouse extremely well, since I have been vetting Britt’s significant others since she was allowed to date. This time my big sister chose some other people to take care of that, so I guess my job is to just be all supportive, and that I can definitely do. To my sister I just want to say… I love you so much. I am so happy that you are taking this leap to find your happiness, because you deserve it more than anyone else I know. You have sacrificed so much of your childhood and young adult fun to take care of your silly sick sister and you never complain or show any resentment. You just smile and make me think that everything is going to work out, *sniffles* well, today I am here to tell you everything is going to work out, you’re going to get your happy ending, Rabbit. And to my new sister. I want to say thank you for signing up for this thing and entering my sister’s life at a time I know she could really use a person to love. She has the biggest heart that always has room to love more, but she can also get out of hand from time to time, so if you ever need help reigning her in just give me a call. I know all the tricks. Welcome to our very… eccentric family, Santana. I hope you and Britt have a lifetime filled with happiness and that you realize I’ll be around regularly to eat your food, so keep that fridge stocked.

[Santana laughs and holds Brittany against her, from her seat on her lap. Once Kelly finishes with the mic, Mack grabs it and smiles.]

“THE” MACK: Haha, so me and Tana met a few years ago, 5 or 6. Maybe 7. Damn, time flies. Anyways, we met at a… party, so to speak. And Santana was the life of it.

SANTANA: Dios mio! *hides face in Brittany’s hair* She is NOT telling that story.

BRITTANY: *wraps her arms snugly around Santana’s waist* OOoo story time! I can’t wait to hear this!

(The Mack continues her speach)

[Cuts to Brittany and Santana sitting at the table talking]

BRITTANY: *looks from Santana to the dance floor then back again* Are you having a good time? It’s your wedding reception, you should have fun, even if you married a stranger.

SANTANA: *runs her fingers through Brittany’s hair and down her neck, as she speaks* I’m having a very pleasing time. It might be because I happened to marry a beautiful stranger.

BRITTANY: *bit her lip and smiled* Good. I’m having fun too. I like when everyone fawns over me. I should get married more often. This world has plenty of stranger hotties in it. *giggles* Though I think I sort of want to keep you. *pecks Santana’s nose* I could keep you forever.

SANTANA: *kisses Brittany hard, and after a few seconds, pulls away, keeping their faces together* Forever? You shouldn’t make promises you can’t keep. That means you’re mine, *growls quietly* forever. You think you can handle that?

BRITTANY: *kisses Santana back and is a slightly dazed for a bit* I don’t make promises I can’t keep! I said could. I don’t know you well enough yet to say definitely, but your lips taste really good and you smell sweet and I like the way your arms feel around me, so your to a good start, Mrs. Lopez. *smiles brightly* You should ask me to dance.

SANTANA: *smiles, as well and looks around, before standing and outstretching a hand at Brittany* May I have this dance, my lady.

BRITTANY: *takes the hand offered and stands. She does a little curtsy and giggles* Let’s do this! Let’s make them all jealous. *winks*

SANTANA: *laughs* Of course. *drags Brittany, by the hand, to the dancefloor* I hope you can keep up. I’ve taken a couple of classes.

BRITTANY: *smirks before wrapping her arms around Santana’s waist and brings their faces closely together*  You’re cute. Did you know that? *kisses the tip of Santana’s nose.* I’ll give you some real lessons later, but first I just want to sway with you pressed against me, if that’s okay with you.

SANTANA: Of course, I’m cute. You married me. *smirks* As you wish, my wife. *wraps arms around Brittany’s midsection and pulls her as close as possible, then even closer, pressing herself closely to Brittany, then relaxing* You feel just as nice as you look. You give dance lessons?

BRITTANY - Yeah, but I didn’t know you were cute, some science guys picked you for me. *eyes Santana with a small smile* I’m going to send them a thank you fruit bouquet. *laughs as she moves her arms to rest around Santana’s shoulders as the pair swayed rhythmically.*  I don’t, but I’m like the best dancer you’ll ever meet. I could probably hypnotize you with the way I move my body, so I’m sure I could teach you a thing or two.

SANTANA: *bites her lip* The way your body moves already hypnotizes me.

BRITTANY: *smirks* Good. *buries her face in the crook of Santana’s neck as she hums along to the music.*

SANTANA: *sighes heavily and runs her fingers through Brittany’s hair* Your hair is very soft.

BRITTANY: *lifts her head slightly* I use fabric softener in it. *rests her head against Santana’s neck again and smiles against her neck.*

SANTANA: *pulls back, slightly, and looks at Brittany, with a confused look, still playing with her hair, idly* Fabric softener?

BRITTANY: *smiles and shrugs* Yuh huh. *pulls Santana back in* Don’t forget, I get to shove cake in your face when this dance is over!

SANTANA: You can shove whatever you like, in my face. *kisses Brittany’s neck, lightly* But I think I’m okay with just this, for a while.

-----

Ugh! I was being so sappy and I just wanted to punch myself, but I couldn’t even care, because my wife was so f***ing adorable, I couldn’t stand it.

-----

BRITTANY - That’s what she said. *smiles wickedly* I like this too. I don’t mind staying like this for a while. *holds Santana closer.*

[They sway slowly, for a while. Eventually the song comes to an end and Santana kisses Brittany’s lips, deliberately and passionately.]

-----

Boy oh boy can that girl kiss. If this is how she kisses a stranger wife, wait until she gets to know how completely awesome and sexy I am she won’t be able to keep her hands off me. *smirks*

-----

[Music plays as the screen shows shots of the guest enjoying themselves spliced with the couple laughing and Brittany smashing cake Santana’s face before kissing the corner of the woman’s mouth. Santana pulls Brittany in, and deepens the kiss, only to shove her own handful into Brittany’s face, when she pulls away.]

[A montage of guests dancing and eating]

Puck: *introduces Quinn to her mother and sister*

Esther: *gives Quinn a hug* Hello Quinn, welcome to the family, and mazel...you looked absolutely beautiful.

Quinn: Thank you.

Sarah: *hugs Quinn* Hi sis, it's nice to meet you. Hopefully, you can keep this one on a tight leash.

Quinn: *laughs and looks at Puck*

Puck: *rolls her eyes* Shut up. You're gonna scare her off. *looks over at her daughters* This is Hannah, and this is Iva. Girls this is Quinn Fa-Fabray. Fabray.

Hannah: *moves in to give Quinn a hug* Hi, welcome to the family. It's nice to finally meet you. You look like so pretty.

Quinn: *nods at Puck, then hugs Hannah* It’s nice to meet you too, Hannah. You look very pretty yourself.

Iva: *gives Quinn a hug* I hope you're not an evil stepmother because I don't do windows or floors.

Quinn: *gives Iva a quick hug and laughs, shakes head* I’m not evil, it’ll just be making beds and cleaning toilets for you. *laughs again*

Iva: *narrows her gaze and gives a little pout* I guess that’s okay.... *makes a face at her mother*

Puck: *laughs and shakes her head* I’m sure she’s just teasing, Ives. *looks over to Quinn and winks* Though, you probably should make your bed everyday.

Iva: I will if you will.

Puck: *laughs again* Okay, point.

Quinn: *laughs* I was only kidding, don’t worry, Iva.

[Russell and Judy Fabray come over and Quinn steps closer to them, introducing them quickly to Puck’s mother and sister first briefly for short hellos.]

Quinn: Puck, these are my parents, Russell and Judy. My sister, Francine, couldn’t, um, be here today. This is your daughter-in-law, Norah Puckerman, but Puck is fine.

Judy: *crisply* Puck. *extends a hand to shake Puck’s*

Russell: It’s nice to meet you. *extends a hand to Puck as well*

Puck: *stands and shakes both of their hands* It’s nice to meet you both.

Quinn: And these are Puck’s daughters, my stepdaughters, Hannah, is the oldest, and Iva. *stops Hannah from hugging Judy*

Judy: It’s nice to meet you both, girls.

Russell: Iva? What’s that? Greek?

Puck: It’s actually Hebrew, but there’s probably some crossover somewhere.

Iva: Yeah, we’re Jewish.

-----

Brrrr...did it just get a little icy in here?

-----

Russell: *nods slightly* Well, we raised Quinn Catholic. Her last marriage was in a church.

-----

He just… yeah, he did.

-----

Puck: Well that’s not a bad thing. We respect other people’s religions. *moves quickly to grab Iva before she can say anything else* I don’t know anything about Catholics. So I guess we’ll just have a lot to teach each other. But...wait last marriage? *looks over at Quinn* You were married before?

-----

That man is rude. I don’t care if he is my new Grandpa.

-----

Quinn: *frowns, takes in a breath and nods* Yes, yeah, I was, but it didn’t work.

Judy: It was literally over just last week.

Quinn: *to Puck* The divorce finalized. It had been over for much longer than that. *to Judy* Please, stop.

Judy: Your…*frowns* wife should know the truth, Quinn. She should know exactly what she’s getting into.

Quinn: *to Judy, speaking low* You are ruining my wedding day.

Russell: Your second wedding day.

Quinn: *visibly upset, to Puck* I’m sorry.

[Quinn turns and heads out of the barn. Once outside, she moves off to the side and takes in a few deep breaths, trying not to cry. She gains some composure]

Puck: *looks at Quinn’s parents* Well that was kinda unnecessary., especially since I don’t actually care. I was just surprised. Why would you try to be anything but happy for your daughter? That was really crappy. So I’m gonna go find my wife and make sure she’s okay.

----

*just looks at the camera for a long moment before groaning and shaking her head* Seriously what the f*ck was that? What is happening right now? They are so lucky that they’re my new in-laws or I’d kick them out.

---

[Puck heads in the direction Quinn went out of the barn, looking around for a bit before she finds Quinn and walks over to where she is]

Puck: *touches her arm* Hey, are you okay?

[Quinn turns when Puck’s touches her arm and nods quickly. She waves her hand dismissively.]

Quinn: Yeah. Thanks. *offers a smile* Just embarrassed. You didn’t sign up for them when you signed up for this, that’s for sure. *lets out a breath* They’re just acting like as--jerks because of this, all of this, and I should have known. So. Sorry. *offers another tight smile*

Puck: You don’t have to be embarrassed. It wasn’t your fault. They shouldn’t have done that, and I’m gonna say we’re kind of even. I have kids, and you were married before...well I see why we were paired. *chuckles lightly* This is already a more exciting start to our marriage than I’d been expecting. *steps a little closer* I don’t care...for the record. I mean if you were meant to be with me then obviously wasn’t going to work for the last...girl? Guy?

Quinn: *smiles more and takes another step closer to Puck. nods* Yeah, I guess we are even. I guess they really did do a good job pairing us… *meets Puck’s eye* Guy. And yeah, we’d been trying--I’d been trying to make a marriage work that was broken up years ago, to be honest. *reaches out to take Puck’s hand and draws her even closer* But I suppose if my parents don’t make you want to run for the hills, we’ve got a good thing going. *laughs softly*

-----

Really, anyone that can handle my parents deserves an award. If she can deal with that and not even be bothered by it, then this girl’s a keeper. One hundred percent.

-----

[Scene moves to later in the evening with Puck on stage with her guitar and the band behind her.]

Puck: So...I guess I should start this off by explaining that I think myself a songwriter.. *some of the guests groan goodnaturedly* Hush, you guys know I’m boss on the guitar. *laughs a little* Anyway, I’ve been working on this song for months, and this seemed like the perfect venue to debut it. So...Quinn, this is the first time I’ve let anyone hear it, and I hope you like it. And even if you think it sucks, be a good wife and lie and stroke my ego anyway.  *winks at Quinn and then looks behind her to count the band in*

[Quinn watches Puck perform, staring with a slightly surprised, happy expression on her face.]

-----

I didn’t know she could sing. I mean, obviously I didn’t know, but I mean… she’s amazing. I didn’t realize I wanted someone who can sing like that. She’s talented, I love that.

-----

[When the song finishes, Quinn goes to the stage and signals Puck to come closer to her. She tugs on her vest to bring her lower and leans up to kiss her as the guests clink their glasses and clap and cheer.]

Puck: So you liked it? *kisses Quinn again*

-----

She liked the song. Score one for Puck.

-----

[Scenes go on to show Hannah reading the “7 Blessings” and Sarah giving a speech.]

Hannah: *stands after Sarah sits down* Okay so my mom doesn’t know that I wrote this because I wanted it to be a surprise because she’s always surprising us. *looks over at her mother with a smile before she glances at the paper in her hand* Mom, when you told us you were getting married I was surprised for two reasons. One, you always said you’d never get married, that you were “married to being a mom” whatever that meant. Two, because you said you were marrying  stranger. We always expect you to do the craziest things like that time you jumped on Dad’s back at Walmart and made him carry you around the store for the rest of the day. Or that time you bought an ice cream cone and asked Iva if she believed in unicorns and then smashed it on her head to give her a horn. But this is like a whole new level of crazy, even for you. But I’ve also never seen you this excited to do anything, and you like have no doubt that this is gonna work out. The fact that you believe that so much makes me believe in it too. If anyone could make a love story out of marrying a stranger, it’s you.

*looks over at Quinn* I know we just met you, and we don’t really know each other yet, but I think it’s really cool that you married my mom. I hope you’re ready to go out into the yard at midnight and try to count the stars, and I hope you really like riding ATVs and weird movies. If not, you’re gonna be in for a lot of that. My mom really loves all of those things. She also thinks she’s really funny, and sometimes she is. Just don’t let her know you think she’s funny, or she’ll just get weirder and weirder. *pauses for the laughter from the guests* She’s also really strong and really smart. She’s a really good mom, and I hope you’ll think she’s a good wife. I mean I’m sure she will be, but I get to leave for college in six or seven years. And you’ll be stuck with her for way longer. *laughs and holds up her glass of sparkling cider* To my mom and Quinn, mazel tov!

Puck: *grins brightly as she walks over and gives Hannah a big hug, kissing her forehead*

-----

I’ve got a really great kid.

------

I just feel… very lucky. I thought today, I would be getting a wife. But I’m getting a family. I’m getting a wife and two daughters and… I don’t think I could find anyone else in the world right now that feels as lucky and happy as I do now.

[Scene opens to Mercedes and Sam walking into the Reception Hall, being greeted with a round of applause by their friends and family. They are led over to their designated table, and Sam pulls out Mercedes chair for her as they both take their seats.]

Mercy: *grabs her glass of water and looks over at Sam, as she took a drink.* I think throughout the night we really need to play like 20 questions, because I keep looking at this ring, which by the way is very beautiful, and I am like I don’t even know my husband’s favorite color or what he does for a living, and that doesn’t seem right. *smiling she glances towards her family seeing them happily talking away.*

Sam *leans in, placing his ear closer to Mercedes’ lips. Then nods.* I like that Idea.  But we are going to need a lot more than 20 questions. *he laughs* Let’s see…  to answer the first two questions, my favorite color is blue. -Aqua blue.  And I run my own remodeling and design firm. *follows her gaze* They really do seem nice. I can tell you J… Oh man, I know it starts with “J” Don’t tell me.  The Jones! *grins toothily. * I’m right, right.  It’s Jones.  

Mercy: *smiles brightly.* You own your business? Wow I guess they really did think we would be a great match. I own my own Bakery. Oh and my favorite colors are pink and purple. Yes it is Jones and they are amazing, but I am sure the Evans clan is just as amazing.

Sam: Yeah, sometimes. *He smiled* I guess they did. I can’t wait to find out what else we have in common.  *Looked at her skeptically.* So, you actually made those cookies? They were great! *Pats his stomach.* I am going to gain soooo, much weight.  Pink and Purple? Girly, girl… I bet you’ve have kitten and rainbow throw pillows everywhere? *He laughs teasingly* It’s more the Evans trio. *Pointing out both woman. * It’s just my mom, sister and I. They are pretty good gals. I like’em. You know what? *takes Mercedes hand.* Let’s go meet them.

Mercy: *nodded proudly* I did make them from scratch. And I am glad you liked them, I hope you liked all your gifts, I tend to like do “too” much sometimes so be prepared for that. Do you cook? And No! I love the colors and I think I look hot in them but my tastes are better than that, I mean i like to keep it modern and simple for the most part. Though… *she leaned in closer to him* the outside of my store is like a subtle pink with brown mixed in. *he took her hand and she looked at him nervously, she was not prepared to meet his mom but she sucked it up anyways and followed him to greet her and his sister.*

Sam: *nods in adoration* I did! *he shows her the cufflinks.* These and the socks were a great touch, thank you. *Patting the back of her hand.*  That’s sweet of you, but you don’t need to overdo it for me.  Okay… I’m a pretty simple guy with simple tastes. *His eyebrows lowered as she insists her house is modern.* Sure… *shakes his head No.*  I’ll believe it when I see it.  Is your store here in Charlotte?

Mercy: I am glad that you enjoyed them, and in reality I only over do it on special occasions. And before I forget, I really love this necklace, it was exactly what I needed today. *at his teasing she pouted playfully* You will see it and you will eat your words! As for my shop? Yes its here, my Aunt used to own this restaurant and once she decided to retire, my parents bought the building for me and I moved here.

*Sam weaves them through the semi crowded room.  He is forced to take a slower pace, as the guest enjoying the reception, halt their progress to wish them well or meet, either the bride or groom. Luckily, his Mother and sister intercept them.*

Sabrina: Did you really think you were going to make it over to us easily?

Sam: Hush, we were getting there. *He chuckles.* And before my sister can say another word, Mercedes Jones. This is my mother, Joanna Evans. *Throwing her in as an afterthought.*  And the loud one is my sister Sabrina. *he grumbles.*

Joanna: *Reached out taking Mercedes hand.*  You are lovely, my dear.  It’s nice to meet you. *She gave Mercedes a kind but tight smile.*  I have to ask, why did you decide to participate in this…. experiment?  

Sabrina: Mom!

Joanna: Sabrina! *glancing at her daughter.* You know I have a curious mind.  I didn’t offend you did I dear? *Gives Mercedes hand a little squeeze.*

Mercy: I don’t mind at all! I am happy to answer. *looks at Sabrina then Joanna*. I grew up in a very family oriented environment, one filled with so much love. And I always thought I would find someone who was a perfect for me. And honestly, instead of the perfect guy, I was met with users, losers and well one was an actual boozer! I didn’t have any luck on my end, so I decided to take a leap of faith and see if maybe, just maybe I really did have a soulmate or “other half” out here. I know its unorthodox, and some might call it foolish, but in this day and age where you can find a date online and they aren’t screened or well, vetted completely, here at least I know that they really did their homework because I went through the same process Sam did. *gives Sam a smile.* I don’t know if this will work, if we will fall in love or just find that we are better as friends, but I am willing to put in the work to find out…

Joanna:  I’m worried my dear, for the both of you.  I totally understand your dilemma, but how can you willingly do this?  I… I lost my husband young, but I would never ever play with the sanctity of marriage the way you to are. This isn’t a game.  An I am sorry.  You seem lovely.  But dear, you can’t believe that this is going to work out. Neither, of you can. *looks at them sympathetically.*

Sam:*stares sadly at his mother. Squeezes Mercedes hand.*  Sabrina, why don’t you walk Mercedes back to our the table for me. *Takes his mother’s arm and loops around his.*

Mercy: *turns to leave but stops and looks back at Joanna* I am sorry for your loss, and I understand why you feel the way you do, you don’t know me, what kind of person I am, and you want what is best for Sam. But there are people who have known each other for years, and their relationship fails. I am choosing to have faith in this process, faith in your son, family is the most important thing to me, so I just ask that you don’t write me off and to give both Sam and I a chance to prove this can work. And I would never play with Marriage, I believe once you are in it, a marriage, you fight like hell to stay in it. *Looks at Sam for a moment before looping her arm with Sabrina’s and walking away*

Sabrina: *smiles* Sure, big brother. Don’t listen to her.  She’s only mad Sam wouldn’t let her pick his wife.

Mercy: She’s just worried, I would be too if my son did this, of course I would have to have a son but I digress.

-----

I should have known my mother wasn’t going to give up so easily.  She never has, and most likely never will. But wifey held her own.  I was impressed, Mercedes is in this for the long haul. And as long as she’s willing to try so am I.

-----

Joanna: Sam, I don’t want to hear it.  You know I’m right.

Sam: *Walks Joanna back to her table* And what does it matter now, mom?  This is done. Love or hate it, I married a stranger. Will I regret my decision? Maybe. But then again maybe, I won’t. But here is what I do know, right now, she’s a sweet woman.  Who doesn’t deserve for you to make an already tough day, tougher. Please for me, just leave it alone. Okay?  Leave it alone and just enjoy the party.

Joanna: *Huffs, falling into her seat. Gripping Sam’s hand sadly.*  Okay… *sigh* Okay, you win again.  When did you become your father? Anyway… *letting his hand go, she took a tissue from her purse* Tell her I’m sorry, I had no right.

Mercy: *sighs* So Sabrina, tell me about my new sister, I grew up with all boys so you are a breath of fresh air. *she said with a small smile.*

Sabrina: Me neither. What are the odds? We are both the babies of the family and the only girls. I see your brothers give you a hard time as well. Sam tries. *she smirks* But I get as good as I give, most of the time. Hmmm, let’s see, I’m 24, and I’m the lead interior designer at Sam’s company and my mother’s for that matter. I am currently single and… *turning to Mercedes* I really want to say.  My brother special to me, he’s my best friend, believe me if you’re good to him he’ll be good to you. As crazy as this is, Welcome to the family. And don’t worry, my mother will calm down…  eventually.  

Mercy: *takes Sabrina’s hand* Spoken like a true baby sister. I know this situation isn’t ideal but I promise you I came into this with the best intentions and I will do my best to be good to him. *reaches to the necklace Sam gave her and smiled brightly* all we can do is try. Everything else will fall into place. I believe that.

*Sam makes it back to the table just as the festivities are about to start.*

Malcolm: *stands in front of the mic and taps it softly.* If I can have everyone’s attention, please. My name is Malcolm Jones and I am Mercy’s oldest brother. We grew up in a tight knit family and, my brothers and I are not ashamed to say that we sheltered her a bit. *Richard clears his throat and Malcolm nods* Okay in truth we sheltered her a lot, because she is our baby sister, and we didn’t want the world to hurt her, to break that spirit that everyone who meets her comes to love. And now she is married and I have to say that from first impressions, I think you have the potential to be someone great for her and for that I am, we are thankful. But I don’t want to drag this long speech out, sooo Marcus and Michael if you will. *Marcus and Michael come up behind Mercedes and lifts her to the front.* Don’t worry Sam you will get her back. But this is a Jones tradition. Graduations, surgeries, heartbreaks, were never complete without a performance. So in true Jones Fashion,  and to honor this day that my beautiful baby sister got married. We have decided to sing you a song.

Mercy: *sits in the chair Marcus and Michael placed her in and shakes her head.* No! No! Please you guys… *Mercy pouts but it doesn’t deter them from getting into positions.*

-----

The Jones kids can all sing and we do it at the most unnecessary times… but I guess if they aren’t gonna mess up the ceremony with it I can handle the song, though as much as I was disappointed they sung “My Girl” just because its not our goodbye song.

-----

[The Jones boys got into position and Michael looked at the DJ who started “My Girl” and they began sing to her as they danced around her. Malcolm takes the lead as always and Michael and Marcus sing back up. Doing the actual steps from the Temptations. Everyone in the room claps along when Malcolm stops singing in the middle of the song and Mercedes looks at them wondering what was going on.]

Marcus: Mal how you gonna stop the song in the middle?

Malcolm: Cause I just realized that we are being selfish guys.

Michael: Nah i don’t have a selfish side…I got a sexy side tho. *Michael looks up and winks at the ladies.*

Mercy: Okay what are you guys doing?

Malcolm: You will always be our girl, but you are married now, which means that we have got to share you. *he nods at Marcus and Michael, and they walk over to Sam, moving him to the front and having him sit next to Mercedes.* We still aren’t 100 percent sold on you yet, but that takes time.

Mercy: *looks at Sam* Ready to run yet? *she joked* also they really weren’t kidding about the whole music comment, its a family thing…

Sam: Not yet but I’m lacing up my Jordan’s. *laughs enjoying himself* I have feeling the bros can sing.

[Ain’t No Mountain High Enough begins to play and Mercy smiles, because its a song that means a lot to her and her brothers, its their goodbye song. Soon Mercedes gets up and joins in singing with her brothers and the Jones boys try their best to let go of their little sister. Camera pans to show the guest enjoying the impromptu performance and it kicks start everyone heading to the dance floor to dance. The camera goes to Mercedes pulling Sam to the dance floor as “Marry You” Starts to play.]

-----

Mercy: I felt like crying in that moment because my brothers made this wedding real for me. That is our “Goodbye” Song. It lets us all know that no matter where we are, how far apart we are, that there is nothing that would stop us from being there for each other. The fact that my brothers put this together so quickly and even included Sam, it meant a lot. I love my family and I can only hope that the connection I have with my family, will be the same for Sam’s.  

[The food is being served to everyone in the room.]

MARLEY: *Cuts at her food, when there is a tapping of glasses. Looks up, surprised*

LAUREN: *Tapping glass over and over again* That means you have to kiss!

RYDER: *leans over to quickly kiss Marley on the cheek then sticks his tongue out at Lauren*

MATT: Aww, come on! What was that?

LAUREN: *Taps glass again* That ISN’T a kiss. THIS is a kiss *Lauren kisses Matt*

[Matt looks a little stunned but kisses back.]

RYDER: *laughs loudly and turns to his wife* May I?

MARLEY: *Burst out laughing, before looking over at Ryder, and nodding* Of course.

RYDER: *leans over, brushes a loose hair out of Marley’s face, and kisses her*

MARLEY: *Leans in, and placed her hand on his cheek as they kissed. Pulling back, she bit down on her lip* Hmm… That was nice. *Whispers to him* Better? *Turns to Lauren and Matt*

LAUREN: That was hot. Not as hot as us, but hot.

MATT: I couldn’t agree more.

RYDER: *softly kisses Marley’s forehead*

[Some time has passed. Marley changed into her reception dress, and a song began playing and it was time for the first dance.]

MARLEY: Oh… I love this song!

RYDER: Psh! Then what are we waiting for! *stands and holds a hand out for Marley, to take*

MARLEY: *Takes Ryder’s hand and heads to the dance floor. Wrapping her arms around his neck, they begin dancing to the song* I wanted to say you look really handsome..

RYDER: *places his hands on Marley’s hips and sways with her* Thank you. Again, I wasn’t quite sure the blue was my color, but it looked right. I’m not the best with fashion.

MARLEY: *Hums softly* “I like color.. You saw the pink in my dress, and the shoes.. It makes sense.

RYDER: I really like the pink. We coordinated our outfits and we didn’t even know it… Also, I haven’t heard this song in years. Makes me feel like singing. *smirks wider as he lifts Marley by the waist and swing her in the air, and begins singing loudly* Like a river flows, surely to the sea, darling, so it goes, some things are meant to be!

MARLEY: I do too, and hey! Maybe it’s meant to be! I haven’t heard it either, I love it though! *Gasps, and laughs as she holds on to Ryder as he swung her in the air when he puts her down, Marley sighs contently as she begins to sing.* Take my hand.. And my whole life too.. Because I can’t help, falling in love with you.

RYDER: Haha! There ya go! No need to be shy. *pauses and looks serious* You are so beautiful. *pulls Marley in and kisses her* -----

So, I’m dancing and I’m not thinking too straight. And it’s just the most natural thing in the world to kiss this girl… Who is my wife! -----

So we were dancing, and he kisses me! I mean I was kind of surprised, but I wasn’t going to complain! -----

MARLEY: *Blushes* It’s a good song.. What can I say? *Blushes further at the compliment* Tha-…. *Stopped when he kissed her, and Marley leaned back in, really kissing him*

RYDER: *pulls back* I’m sorry… about that. Um, I, uh…

MARLEY: *pulls back and blushes* It’s okay.. I didn’t mind it.

[The song ends, and they head back to their table]

MARLEY: I heard we’re staying in the tree house..

RYDER: It looks pretty cozy, don’t it?

MARLEY: It does.. This place is really nice. Everything was so beautiful..

RYDER: Hey, you fit right in! Oh, God! That was so corny. I’m sorry. *facepalms*

MARLEY: *laughs*Just a little corny. *teases* You blend in too though..

RYDER: Oh, no! You need to stop that, right now! If this marriage is gonna work, the cheesiness that I bring will be enough, without you contributing. *still smiling*

MARLEY: *pouts* But I’m corny too! You can’t hog it all! How about we share?

RYDER: Ugh! Already getting into the compromises of marriage. I’m not sure how long I’ll last.

MARLEY: *Snorts* Ha! Compromise, that’s what marriage is about, buddy. *Nudges* You get a pretty wife out of the deal though!

RYDER: Well, I’d say that’s a pretty damn good deal.

MARLEY: I’m glad you agree.. *shifts nervously* I wonder why type of cake our wedding cake is.

RYDER: Hm. *looks thoughtful* I really hadn’t even thought about it. Something tells me you’ve thought about a lot of this stuff.

MARLEY: Well, I mentioned I liked a yellow cake with strawberry filling, and cream cheese.. I just wonder if they delivered.

RYDER: Mm! Strawberries and cream cheese! Marley, you are a magical woman.

MARLEY: I know! I hope it is *Peers around* Can we do the cake now? We have to eat first, right?

RYDER: Do you wanna do cake now? We just got our food, but I’m anxious to see whether they got what you asked for.

MARLEY: Nah, we can wait, we need to be traditional, and all. *Winks as she picks at her food* So what’s your favorite food?

RYDER: *smirks* Pizza. Also, sugary stuff. Like cake. *shouts out loud* Alright, people! You can keep eating your food, but my wife and I… *laughs* My wife and I would like our cake now. So where is our cake?

MARLEY: *laughs* You sound like a child. *Mouth drops open has he yells, but she’s smiling still* Ryder! *Tugs at his arm* Ignore him, he’s being silly! Just eat!

LAUREN: *Leaning down the table* Hey now, M. Let the man talk. I second cake!

MATT: Wait! Y’all are telling me there’s cake in here?!

JACE: Oh god! See what you’ve started?

RYDER: You don’t want cake, sis?

JACE: I never said that.

RYDER: That’s what I thought! Mister Big Guys, where is our cake?!

LAUREN: Looks like you’re out voted. Cake it is!

MARLEY: *Shakes head* Apparently I am! You guys are too much. Why do I get the feeling this will happen often?

LAUREN: *Grinning, and blows kiss* Because you’re out numbered!

[A cart with a cake on it came out and was lead to their table]

MARLEY: *Mouth drops open* Wow.. It’s beautiful!

RYDER: *eyebrows knit together* Wow is right. It’s… actually really nice looking. *smiles again and stands, grabbing Marley’s hand* Now, for the real test. Let’s see if they got your order right!

MARLEY: *Holds on to Ryder’s hand as they head over to the cake* Oh I hope they did..

MILLIE: Don’t cut into the top layer! That’s suppose be eaten on your first anniversary!

RYDER: *paused and looked Millie, then back at his wife* People eat year old cake? Why not just buy a new one? It’d taste much better.

MARLEY: *Wrinkles nose* Really? Okay… *Takes knife, and Ryder’s hand so they both cut into it taking a piece, and handing one into him, she grins* You’re going to shove it in my face, aren’t you?”

RYDER: Shove wha-? Pft! Wha-What?! *takes a bite* It would be childish of- oh wow, that’s really good cake! It would be childish of me to shove this cake in your-. *shoves the cake in her face, mid-sentence*

MARLEY: Hey! I am suppose to feed it to you! *Pouts lips* Yeah it really wou-…. *Marley gasps, cake covering her mouth and nose* RYDER! *Shoves cake roughly into his face*

LAUREN: *Laughing* I am kind of turned on by this, and half wonder if I should be yelling fight right now…

RYDER: *Laughs loudly, wiping some of the cake off of his face and eating it, then moving to kiss his wife, still laughing* I’m sorry. Never have I claimed to not be childish.

MARLEY: *Laughing as she wipes some frosting off her face, and licks her hand before he kisses her. Kissing him back, she nipped at a piece of cake on the corner of his mouth* I think that was part of the contract or something.

RYDER: Right! I’m glad you remembered the goofball-clause. *quickly grabs a cloth napkin and gingerly wipes cake from Marley’s face* Okay, you wanna do this for real, now that I’ve got my obligations out of the way.

MARLEY: Of course I did! What type of wife would I be if I forgot? *Grins as he wipes her face, and does the same for him* Yeah? Okay..” She cuts two more pieces, and offers him a slice, before holding it up to his mouth*

RYDER: Alright. *let’s out a breath* Ready? *takes the piece of cake from Marley, gingerly holding it up and feeding her a small bite*

MARLEY: Ready *Grins as she offers him the cake, and takes a bite of herself* Oh! It’s my cake! *Takes another bite, and laughs*

RYDER: *takes a bite* Hm. That’s because your cake is the best cake.

MARLEY: *kinks eyebrow* Oh yeah? You don’t say…

RYDER: *nods* It is very good cake. Very specific too.

MARLEY: *hums* It’s amazing.. Do we get to keep it? Like after?

RYDER: Not a clue. I would think so with how much cake is here. Where else is it gonna go? *sets the cake down and calls out* You know what would go great with this? That champagne you pop the cork from! I’ve always wanted to do that. Do we have any?

MARLEY: Good, because I want cake for breakfast. *Watches Ryder with a raised eyebrow* Why do you want to do that? *Watches as he is handed a champagne bottle* Oh boy.

RYDER: Cake for every meal of the day! *takes the bottle* Okay! How does this thing work? *looks at Marley* Wanna help me?

MARLEY: Are you experiencing a sugar rush? *teases and leans back* I don’t know! I’ve never done it before!

RYDER: Me neither! That’s alright! *holds the bottle out for Marley then looks into Marley’s eyes* We’ll figure it out… Together.

MARLEY: You avoided the sugar talk.. *bites lip nervously, but he seemed so sure* Okay.. Just don’t aim it at me!

[Marley and Ryder carefully angled the bottle away and at a forty-five degree angle. After some finagling, the cork went flying from the bottle and the room cheered and applauded. In his celebration, Ryder leaned over and kissed Marley on the forehead.]

MARLEY: *laughs as the cork flew across the room* To us!

[They walk into the reception space holding hands as they're announced for the first time. They walk immediately to the middle of the room for their first dance.]

Jesse: *leans in to whisper into Kitty’s ear* I haven't had a chance to tell you this, but you look ravishing today, darling.

Kitty: Thank you. *blushing* You don’t look so bad yourself.

DJ: Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to present to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. James St. James as the couple takes their first dance.

Jesse: *takes Kitty into his arms as they dance* So would you agree that all of this has been a little awkward? I don't mean awkward in the sense that I feel awkward with you. Just more in the sense that it's bizarre to have these first moments in front of a bunch of strangers.

Kitty: *moves to the music with Jesse* I completely agree. I feel like everyone’s been watching me and judging me all day. You, too, I guess. I don’t think there’s a single person that I invited that doesn’t think we’re both completely crazy.

Jesse: *chuckles* Well, I can’t say that they’re wrong, but at least there’s two of us. *glances over at her bracelet* I’m glad to know that you enjoyed your present. I enjoyed mine as well. Thank you.

Kitty: It’s really beautiful. The box it came in, too. Thank you for both of them, and thank you for calming my nerves. I was close to a full blown nervous breakdown before my mom brought them over to me. And you’re welcome. It’s always been one of my favorites, so I thought sharing it with you would be a nice way to start this partnership.

Jesse: You were correct. *spins her around and then pulls her back in* I want you to know that if you’re agreeable, I intend to kiss your properly. I just felt a little awkward doing it in front of your family for the first time.

Kitty: Oh, I’m very agreeable. *smirks* But I think it might be best for everyone involved if you wait to do that until my brother isn’t in the room.

Jesse: *laughs loudly* Yes, I’m rather fond of my face. I don’t want to risk scarring.

Kitty: We definitely wouldn’t want that.

------

Okay, so this guy is incredibly charming. I’m just hoping that my family won’t completely scare him away.

-----

[As the first dance ends, Kitty and Jesse are approached by Kitty’s older brother, Bryce]

Kitty: *laughs* Speak of the devil, and he will appear.

Bryce: Did you spend your entire first dance talking about me? I mean, I know I’m just that extremely interesting, but you should probably just talk about each other for awhile, don’t you think? *smirks*

Kitty: Very funny. We actually just mentioned the fact that you kind of threatened my husband to be indirectly through the minister. Couldn’t resist throwing that in there, could you?

Bryce: Gotta do my job as an older brother. *laughs* So, Kitty, aren’t you going to introduce me to your new husband, or do I have to keep calling him “that guy” like Heather has been since she found out about the show?

Kitty: *sighs* Bryce, meet Jesse. Jesse, this is my older brother, Bryce. He only wishes he could be as funny as he thinks he is.

Jesse: *holds his hand out to shake Bryce’s hand* it is nice to finally meet my possible tormentor face to face. Jesse St. James, the man whose face you threatened to rearrange.

Bryce: *shakes Jesse’s hand* It’s nice to meet you, too. And sorry about that, man. It’s nothing personal. I just have to put that out there to every guy who enters a relationship with my sister. I’ve never had a man of God say it for me though. *laughs* That was a new one.

Jesse: *laughs lightly* I’m sure. It was quite a new experience for me too. I’ve got to say. I promise to try to not have to have you make good on that promise.

Bryce: As long as you try. Besides, I’m not even the one you really have to worry about. Mom and dad are the ones who will really put the fear in you. It was like the Spanish Inquisition at our dinner table the first time Heather brought Caleb home to meet us.

[Kitty’s parents, Victoria and Adam, approach the group.]

Kitty: Perfect timing. Mom, dad, I’d like you to meet my husband, Jesse.

Adam: *reaches out to shake Jesse’s hand* Put ‘er there, son.

Jesse: Nice to meet you, sir. *shakes her father’s hand* Nice grip you got there.

Kitty: Daddy’s death grip is a well known legend in our community. Striking fear into teenage boys ever since Heather started dating.

Adam: What can I say? It weeds out the weak, undeserving one. Your new husband didn’t wince, so he’s already gaining points.

Victoria: Oh Adam, enough of that. *turns to Jesse* Now, we know why our daughter momentarily lost her mind and signed up for a show like this, God help her, but why would a handsome, young man like you need to go on a show like this. What’s wrong with you?

Kitty: Mother! *eyes bugging out of her head* You can’t just ask someone that. Especially not my new husband.

Victoria: What? It’s a valid question.

Caroline: *walks over with Henry to where the group is standing just as Victoria finishes her question* Nothing’s wrong with him. Jesse is perfection, has been since he was born.

Jesse: *groans goodnaturedly, smiling at his mother* Mom…*leans in and kisses her cheek* Mom...Dad, this is my new wife, Kitty, and her parents and brother, Bryce.

[The parents exchange hellos and handshakes. ]

Caroline: *looks over at Kitty* You’re getting the most perfect guy. My Little Miracle has just always made us so proud.

-----

She’s not even five seconds in and she’s already starting with the Little Miracle thing. I’d be annoyed if I didn’t love it so much.

-----

Kitty: Well, I don’t think I’ve known him quite long enough to know if he’s perfect or not, but so far, he seems like a pretty great guy to me. It’s so nice to meet you all.

Caroline: It’s nice to meet you too, dear. I have to admit that I’m curious as to why a girl as pretty as you would need to resort to marrying a total stranger. Is there something wrong with you?

Henry: Caroline…

Jesse: Mom! You can’t…*looks at Kitty* I’m sorry about that.

Caroline: What? I think it’s a fair question.

Jesse: Nothing’s wrong with her. She’s great.

Kitty: *to Jesse* It’s fine. *turns to Caroline* If you must know, I signed up on whim with my best friend. My love life was just fine before this. I just thought it would be a fun experiment.

Victoria: If she gets the answer to her question, I don’t see what’s wrong with Jesse answering mine. What’s wrong the “Little Miracle?” I need answers.

Kitty: Mother, please. *looks at Jesse* Regret marrying into my family yet?

Jesse: No, not if you don’t regret marrying into mine. *motions to Andrew* Please come escort your grandmother to the coffee bar and get her some decaf.

Andrew: *hurries over and takes Caroline’s arm* Come on, Gram. Let’s go get some coffee.

[Andrew, Henry, and Caroline walk off.]

Jesse: *turns to Kitty’s mother* There is nothing wrong with me. I’ve simply decided that now that my company is doing incredibly well, I’m ready to tie the knot, and instead of wading my way through women whom are potentially just after my money, I let experts and the Lord lead me here...to your daughter...whom seems perfectly lovely.

Kitty: See, mom? You had nothing to worry about. They set me up with exactly the kind of guy you and daddy always hoped I’d end up with. Now why don’t you guys go enjoy the party, and send Heather and Caleb over to us if you see them anywhere. I should probably introduce Jesse to his niece and nephews at some point.

Victoria: But I have more questions -

Adam: *ushering his wife away* Come on, Vicky. Let’s leave these two newlyweds be. You can always ask more questions later.

-----

So that went better than expected, I think? I mean, no one is bleeding, and Jesse hasn’t headed for the hill yet. If he can survive my parents, I’m pretty sure he’ll be able to survive my sister.

-----

Kitty: *once her parents are out of earshot* You survived meeting Adam and Victoria Wilde. How does it feel to be one of the few to actually complete that task?

Jesse: *leans over and kisses her cheek* I think that I should be scared or insulted, but I am neither. Seems that we could've been matched on family alone. What are the odds that that would happen?  I should do some research.

Kitty: It’s probably a one in a million chance. Really though. We should send the scientists a fruit basket or something if we really are a perfect match. *laughs*

Jesse: I might send them one anyway for pairing me with such a beautiful woman. Come on. We should probably dance while we're still free.

Kitty: I couldn’t agree more. Save the terror of meeting my sister for after we’ve had a little more fun.

Jesse: *takes her hand and leads her onto the dance floor*

-----

[Scene shows a montage of people dancing and Jesse and Kitty talking and eating before it pans to Andrew standing with a glass in his hand.]

Andrew: *lifts his glass* I just want to take this time to welcome Kitty into our family. *looks at Kitty* I don't know much about you yet, but I can tell you that you couldn't ask to be married to a better guy than Jesse. He's always been more than just an uncle to me. He's been more like a big brother, and that's not just because I was born when he was five. *chuckles along with the other guest* I've learned so much about how to be successful and earnest and honest. I've watched him grow from a boy that loved the stage and was super annoying to a man that is one of the most successful guys in Charlotte and still super annoying. *laughs again* I kid. I kid. He's actually one of the most talented people I've ever met. He's compassionate  and a little old fashion, but in the best possible way. He's got such faith, and he's just such a great man. The kind I want to be when I grow up. So take care of him, please. We wouldn't want anything to happen to the Little Miracle would we? *holds as the guests laugh* To Kitty and Jesse, may your lives be filled with nothing but happiness and love. Cheers!

Jesse: *lifts his glass and gives Andrew a smile of gratitude, mouthing his thanks*

[Camera pans to Rachel standing with her own glass]

Rachel: *stands in front of the microphone and taps it, a smile adorning her face*  Attention. Attention please. I was told that as Kitty’s Matron of Honor, *she pauses, looks over at her best friend and mouths ‘can you believe I said Matron’ before returning her attention to the well-dressed group in front of her.* Sorry, where was I. Right, the speech. Kitty and I have known one another since we sported pigtails and knee socks. And no, despite what she may tell you, I don’t mean last week. *laughs along with the crowd* She has been my rock and I hope I’ve been the same to her.  She’s the most beautiful, kind and loving person I know. *looks over at Jesse* Of course that in no way means she won’t give you a run for your money. Not only is she brilliant and sexy, but she’s got a sharp tongue and incredible wit. You my friend are probably the luckiest man alive to have been afforded the opportunity to spend the rest of your life with her. Do not waste the chance.  *looks back at Kitty* You are my best friend, my sister and pillar of strength. *she lifts her glass* Here’s to you.  May this journey bring you the happiness and love you deserve. I love you.  

[Kitty mouths an ‘I love you’ at her best friend as the toast ends]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Here Come The Brides...

When I get to the start of the aisle I see her and… cheese and grits, she is so freaking beautiful. Good job science guys! I just stand there for a moment bless my parents for not asking me any questions. They just let me take it all in, I take all of her in.

-----

[Brittany’s best friend Carmen sashays down the aisle followed closely by her sister, Kelly, in her wheelchair that Britt decorated the night before in flowers and fake flames. The youngest Pierce stops to pose for a picture throwing up a peace sign and pursing her lips before she continues to the end. Brittany for the first time stops staring at her Bride long enough to glance at her sister, roll her eyes and giggle. The music changes signaling it was her turn to go and she slowly moves toward her future]

-----

So, it doesn’t click immediately, and my first thought upon seeing this girl is, ‘damn, I hope my wife is that gorgeous.’ Then, it does click, and I have to stop myself from doing a happy dance.

-----

[Santana smiles widely and stares only at Britt for a few seconds, then notices Kelly getting her picture taken and giggles. Mike and Mack on the side of her, also smile, Mack backhanding Santana’s arm, to get her attention and give a thumbs up.]

[Brittany Stops by her bride’s side and bounces a little on her toes, her sole bright and almost the width of her entire face. She reaches her hand behind her,toward her sister and they do a signature twiddling of their fingers together. ]

BRITTANY: *Leans forward and whispers* You’re really beautiful and sexy.

OFFICIANT: *looks at Brittany and clears his throat* I’d like to introduce you both to your future spouse. Brittany Pierce meet Santana Lopez, Santana Lopez say hello to Brittany Pierce.

BRITTANY: *reaches out her hand and smiles brightly* it’s nice to meet you.

SANTANA: *whispered* Brittany Pierce

[Santana takes Brittany’s hand and brings it to her own lips.]

SANTANA: You are absolutely stunning.

[Santana rubs a thumb along Brittany’s knuckles, before kissing one, and finally letting her hand go.]

-----

She’s so sweet, and those lips… she’s got me covered in goosies at first touch. I’m freaking out!

-----

OFFICIANT: Miss Pierce, Miss Lopez’s family would like you to know, that she is hard-working, hard-headed, and hard-pressed for your love.

[Santana covers her own face, and a few in the audience laugh.]

SANTANA: Ay, Dios mio!

BRITTANY: *giggles* That’s cute. I promise my love is worth being hard pressed for. *winks*

OFFICIANT: Miss Lopez, Miss Pierce’s family would like you to know that she is silly, kind-hearted, imaginative, willful, never wrong even when she is, and a light in the darkest places. She is *furrows brow* kind. She is smart. She is important.

KELLY: *snorts with a muffled laugh*

BRITTANY: *cuts her eyes at her sister then turns back to Santana smiling with a shrug* Sisters.

SANTANA: *stares at Brittany through her lashes* I wouldn’t know. Wait. Let’s do this in the right, order. *She hikes her skirt up, a bit, and kneels down to one leg.* Brittany. Would you please do me the honor of marrying me? *She pulls out a small box and presents its contents to her future wife.*

-----

I realize, it’s a bit redundant, but this is the beginning of, possibly, the rest of our lives. I want to marry my fiance.

-----

BRITTANY: Oh, you will. *furrows brow but a giggle quickly escapes.* Oh this is all so sudden. I mean I just met you… *laughs as she holds out her hand and wiggles her finger.* I guess I am in this thing. I will definitely marry you! Now stand up so we can do this thing Princess Santana Lopez! *winks*

-----

She freaking proposed! How cute is that? I think I might be a little smitten. Good thing because we’re getting married. Also, that ring wowza! It’s so beautiful… I hope she likes the one I got her. Santana Lopez, wife to be, what a sexy cutie!

-----

[The vows are exchanged and so were the wedding rings. The air was filled with cheers]

OFFICIANT: *turns to Santana* You may now kiss your-

BRITTANY: *excitedly jumps up and falls against Santana wrapping her arms around the woman’s neck and but slowed and calmed enough to look into deep brown eyes before placing a soft kiss on the other woman’s lips.*

[Santana wraps her arms around Brittany’s waist, holding her close, and kisses her back, hard.]

OFFICIANT: By the powers, vested in me, I hereby, pronounce you, married.

-----

I’m married now. *flashes ring at camera* I have my own wife. And she’s HOT!

-----

It happened! It really happened! I’m a married woman. I have a wife and she is already super awesome and I don’t even know her yet. I’m so excited. Look out married people, coolness has just joined your ranks! With the hottest wife ever!

-----

BRITTANY: *pulls away slightly before taking Santana’s hand and intertwining their fingers* So wife, *giggles* are you ready to see how photogenic the woman you married is? Let’s go have some fun in front of the camera. *kisses Santana’s cheek*

SANTANA: *allows herself to be dragged by Brittany* Of course. *grabs Brittany’s face after she kisses her cheek and gently redirects her to her lips to give another kiss* Just one for the road. That alright with you, Britt?

BRITTANY: *leans into the kiss, wrapping her arms snuggly around Santana’s waist* Oh, sweet lady kisses for the road are some of my favorite kisses. *smiles brightly before pecking San’s nose with her lips* Now let’s go take these pictures so my parents can hang us on their mantle! Best picture taker gets to to shove cake in the other’s face!

[Several photos flash, one at a time. A few are just smiles, several are silly, a couple are kissing.]

-----

I totally won the best picture taker and I’m shoving cake in Santana’s face but if she’s lucky I’ll like it off too.

The music swells again, and I look down the aisle as she’s walking towards me. I’m thinking “are you effin kidding me? This is not real. She cannot be the person I’m marrying.”  I mean she’s  not just hot. She’s beautiful, and there’s like no way that this chick can’t get someone to marry her. Of course that makes me think “well what the hell is wrong with her?” Then I remember I’m also doing this, and I’m pretty hot myself. So maybe we’re just two hot people that were waiting for each other.

-----

[Quinn makes it to the front in front of the officiant, and Puck smiles big, laughing a little.]

Officiant: Quinn Fabray, meet your new wife-to-be, Norah Puckerman.

Puck: Hey, remember that I told you that I’d be the one next to you in dress? I’m glad you’re the only one wearing the other dress or things could get awkward.

Quinn: Yeah, you could end up marrying a total stranger.

[Quinn laughs a little as well]

---

She’s definitely funny and that’s cute. I still can’t believe this. Not only am I with a girl, going to be with this girl, I’m going to be marrying her. And she’s gorgeous. And I’m just very glad she’s my type because I’ve never played the dating game with ladies and I wasn’t sure what type of woman I’d even get but she’s… she’s, like, perfect.

-----

Officiant: Quinn, Norah’s family would like you to know that she’s stubborn and hardheaded, but she’s also dedicated, hardworking, and fun. Her family is the most important to her, and she has a love-hate relationship with pets. She tends to sleep in the middle of the bed and hog the covers. She thinks she’s a five-star chef, but she’s only just okay. And whatever you do, don’t eat her meatloaf.

Puck: *looks over her shoulder at her family* Thanks, guys…*rolls her eyes and looks back at Quinn* Don’t believe them. I’m an amazing cook.

Quinn: *looks at Puck’s family too, offers a smile, then meets Puck’s eye and laughs lightly again. Smile fades slightly as the Officiant starts*

Officiant: Norah, Quinn’s family would like you to know that she is decisive and strong, and when she commits to something, she commits completely, with one hundred percent of herself. When she sets her mind on a task, she accomplishes it. She’s always been her own person, she doesn’t follow the crowd. When she loves, she loves hard, and she never gives up. Also, good luck.

Quinn: *presses lips together, glances toward her parents* Thanks… *starts to blush a little*

Puck: *looks at her family* See? You’re supposed write only nice stuff.

[Everyone laughs again. The officiant proceeds with the ceremony, and they repeat the vows and exchange wedding bands. Then pronounces them wife and wife.]

-----

It’s weird because, if I’d met Quinn at a bar, we’d have totally made out by now, but she’s my wife! We just met, and this kiss is in front of everyone. That somehow makes it hella awkward. It’s like getting caught making out by your mom. On the other hand, if my new wife wants to kiss I guess I’ll just have to find a way to power on through. *winks*

-----

Right as we’re about to do this, I remember that I’ve never kissed a girl before. So the first time I’m doing it is in front of everyone. My heart is practically pounding out of my chest but I just look at Norah and I’m still just… struck by how beautiful she is and… This will actually probably be the easiest thing I’ve had to do all day.

-----

Puck: *gives Quinn a little awkward smile as she looks at her for a long moment, then just leans in and presses lingering kiss to her lips before pulling back, laughing a little as the guests applaud*

Quinn: *offers an awkward smile back and keeps glancing at Puck’s lips. Leans in a little more when Puck kisses her, eyes slipping shut until Puck pulls back. Smiles and draws in a breath. Reaches for Puck’s hand and takes hold of it*

-----

It was nice, but it wasn't my best work.

-----

I kissed a girl!!

-----

[Puck steps on the glass, and people cheer. The guests head into the reception area and Quinn and Puck get some alone time.]

Puck: *walks over to Quinn* So, I feel like I should actually meet you-meet you. I'm Norah Puckerman, but everyone that isn't my mom or sister calls me Puck. I actually prefer it. *smiles*

Quinn: Oh? Puck. *nods* Okay. Works for me. *offers a smile* I'm Quinn Fabray, but Quinn is fine. *grins and laughs lightly. Hesitates a moment before stepping in close and kissing Puck again, placing her hand on Puck’s hip*

Puck: Quinn...I like it. *is a little surprised when Quinn kisses her again, but kisses her back eagerly*

-----

There. Much better.

-----

I just needed to do that again. Without everyone watching.

-----

Puck: *pulls back enough to smile brightly at Quinn* Well, I guess that means you like me okay.

Quinn: *grins back at her* Yeah, I like you enough, I suppose… *starts to laugh*

Puck: *takes Quinn's hand again* Come on. Let's go take some pictures so I can get out of this dress. *takes a moment to consider what she said* and put on different clothes, not the other thing...not until later at least. *winks playfully*

[heads out to take pictures with their families, and it's there that Quinn learns that Puck has children.]

-----

Well she has kids. That's a surprise. Not a bad one, but it makes a little more sense. For her to be on the show, since she seems so… Like she wouldn't have trouble finding a woman to be her wife. But I've always wanted to be a mom, I just hope her kids like me.

[As the wedding march starts, Sam closes his eyes and exhales, thickly swallowing one last time.  Turning to his mother and sister, he gives them a thumbs up. Then braces himself as his bride begins to enter the room. Adjusting his lapels again, he plants a welcoming smile on his face.]

*Mercedes takes a deep breath as her father leads her down the aisle. Her grip tightened on her father’s arm and he leaned into her, kissing her forehead. She exhaled, trying to muster up the courage to look at her future husband. She glance around the beautifully decorated outdoor ceremony. As she slowly made her way to the front, she finally had enough courage to glance at her future husband, and was surprised at his appearance.

Mercy: *Chewing her bottom lip, she finally made her way to the Arch and smiled nervously at the handsome man in front of her. Squeezing her father’s hand she hesitated only for a moment, before letting go and turning towards the man.* Hi…

Sam: *reaches out to shake her father’s hand.  Then takes a step toward her, extending his hand to draw her up on to the dais.*  I’m Sam. Breathe. *He smiles down at her eyes shining*.

Mercy: *Smiled brightly as Sam shook her father’s hand, He extended his hand to hers and introduced himself to her, then he told her to breath. It made her think about his letter and in turn she did breath, with a beautiful smile and took his hand in hers.* Hi Sam, I am Mercedes.

-----

So I can’t even lie, I wasn’t sure who I was walking down the aisle to, and I wasn’t entirely sure if I could even get to the end of it. But I was pleasantly surprised to see Sam standing there. He was not what I expected at all…but honestly he is better, because that smile of his… I have a feeling is gonna win me over in any situation… did I mention the man is fine as hell tho? *Laughs shaking her head.* I mean just blew my mind when i saw him…

-----

I’m glad I have a strong heart because, wow!  I felt like I was going to pass out when she walked through the doors. The worse part was she wouldn’t look at me.  Which was a reminder of how insane this situation really is. For a second, I thought she was going to turn and run. It was interesting that she decided to actually wear her veil lowered, I couldn’t see her clearly until she got close to me.  But when I did, all I can say is perfect, with those big brown eyes and kissable lips… *Runs his hand over his own lips.*  Beautiful.  Good job experts. 

-----

Sam: *exhales, swallowing, he shakes her hand.*  Nice to meet you Mercedes. Sorry my hands are so sweaty.  My life was threatened. *Pointing to her brothers.* It was their fault. *He laughed.*      

Mercy: Oh my Gosh, they didn’t! *Turns to look at her brothers and Michael and Marcus point at Malcolm. Looks back at Sam.* I am so sorry about them, they mean well. *Turns to the front row and sees who she assumes is his mother and sister, only because of the resemblance.* Um I know you don’t know me… yet… *She spoke softly and nervously.* But thank you for your son, because of how you raised him, they think he is my perfect match so ummm thank you.

Joanna: *Puts her hand over her heart. As the guest let out a collective aww. * Thank you, dear.

Mercy: *Looks back at Sam with the biggest smile, still holding his hand.* Hi again… i keep trying to find something else to say I just cant at the moment.

Michael: Well now I have truly seen everything, I didn’t think anything could get her to be quiet. *The guest all share a laugh at his words*

Sam: *Chuckles, squeezing her hand.* It’s fine. And hello again.

Officiant: Mercedes Jones meet your husband to be, Samuel Evans.

Sam: *Shakes Mercedes’ hand again.*  Nice to meet you Ms. Jones.  *He laughs.*

Mercy: *chews her bottom lip nervously looking at Sam.* Pleasure is all mines Mr. Evans.

Officiant: Mercedes, Samuel’s family would like you to know that you are marrying a jokester, who can sometimes forget to pick up after himself.  In spite of that, you are also marrying a hardworking man, who puts family and friends above all things.  He’s dependable and if you’re worthy, he will always stand by and protect you.

Sam: *Looks shocked. Then turns to smile at his family.* That’s a lot to live up too. *He jokes with a grin.*

Officiant: And Samuel Evans, meet your future wife Mercedes Jones. Samuel; Mercedes family and friends want you to know that she comes from a very close family, where is has three older brothers.

Mercy: *shakes her head as Michael repeats his earlier statement saying “count em” and invoking a laugh again.* Okay you guys have made it very clear I have three brothers, you’re gonna scare him off! *She laughed turning back to Sam.*  

Sam: *drops Mercedes hand, and gives her brothers a thumbs up.* Best behavior bros.  Promise. *His smile slips a bit, revealing his nervousness, briefly. *  I like them, already. *He smiles taking her hand again.*

Officiant: *continues* But really Samuel, they want you to know that Mercedes or as they call her Mercy, Cedes or MJ, has one of the biggest hearts around. She is fiercely loyal, with the sweetest and the sassiest personality you could ever meet. She loves music almost as she does baking, so they hope you have earphones, not because her she can’t sing, she can, but because of the amount of singing she does, and a sweet tooth because the woman is a master in the kitchen. *Crowd laughs as Mercedes blushes* She is hardworking, dedicated and very organized. But most of all they want you to know that in Mercedes you are getting a wife, who sees the beauty in the world, and while she may need to be pushed sometimes, you won’t find a more caring and loving person if you tried.

Mercy: *bites the inside of her cheek trying not to cry, she looks at her family and removes one of her hands from Sam’s, to blow them a kiss. Then puts her hands back in Sams.* They forgot I am a sap too, if you can’t tell by the unshed tears. *she joked with glossy eyes.*

-----

She’s just the cutest thing ever.  I’ve known her less than 10 minutes and already I want to protect her and make her smile.

-----

Officiant: While this is not a traditional setting, both Samuel and Mercedes without knowing it, asked for a Traditional Service. *He pauses for a brief moment.* Are you two ready?

Sam: *coughs, clearing his throat.* Yes.

Mercy: *sighs heavily, trying to remain calm* Yes, I am

-----

No I am not!

-----

Officiant: Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today, to join this man and this woman in “holy matrimony.“ *Turns to Sam* Samuel Christopher Evans, do you take this Mercedes Juliette Jones, to be your wife, to live together in holy matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?

-----

Why on earth did I ask for traditional vows?  Was I drunk?  Hearing the official spell out the real terms of marriage… Geez…  I’m I really ready to give my life over to a stranger? She’s cute, but this is real life.  I must have been out of my mind to sign up for this experiment.  What sane person marries a stranger?  

-----

Sam: *turns to his guest, focusing his attention on his baby sister for a moment, then his mother.  The blond hairs as the base of his neck have turned brown, soaked with sweat. He turns back to Mercedes and smiles.  Blinking down into her veiled face, so, innocent staring back at him. Squeezing her hand reassuringly,*  …I do.

Officiant: Mercedes Juliette Jones, do you take Samuel Christopher Evans, to be your husband, to live together in holy matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”

Mercy: *swallows hard looking at Sam, then her family and back at Sam. Nervousness written all over her face. All eyes were on her and she closes her eyes, taking a deep breath before opening them and nodding.* I uh… *She hesitates for a moment looking at Sam. This was really happening,* I- I do…

Officiant: And now the rings. Sam place the ring on the Mercedes’ finger and to repeat the following, “I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love.”

Sam: *lets go of Mercedes’ hands, searching his pockets for the ring. His face grows red with embarrassment.*

Sabrina: *Whispers loudly.* Top pocket, inside pocket. *wiggling her pointer finger at him.*

Sam: *Finally he pulls the ring from his pocket and then winks at his sister. The guest on both sides of the aisle start to giggle. He takes her small hand, in his surprisingly steady one. sliding the ring on her finger. Repeating after the official, *  I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love.  *He stumbles on the word love, mumbling it under his breath.*  

Officiant: And now the rings. Mercedes place the ring on the Sam’s finger and to repeat the following, “I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love.”

Mercy: *could feel herself start to get emotional, a tear slid down her cheek as she placed the ring on his finger.* I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love. *her voice was full of emotion and nerves. Courtney moves forward and gives her Sam’s ring, and placing it nervously onto his finger.*

-----

I don’t know why it hit me during the rings, that I was moments away from becoming his wife. As sweet as he seemed, and as funny and hot as he was, he was still essentially a stranger. That’s when my hands started shaking, I knew he could tell, I was having a mini breakdown too, and yet, he was reassuring.

-----

Officiant: Samuel and Mercedes, please Join hands. *waits for them to join their hands together.* By virtue of the authority vested in me under the laws of the State of North Carolina, I now pronounce you husband and wife. *looks to Sam, her father and brothers, then back to Sam*  You may kiss the bride.

Sam: *Turns, raising their joined hands in the air, for all to see. Quickly glancing to Mercedes’ brothers and father, his lips drawn into a tight line. Turning to Mercedes, he rubs his hands down the side of his pants. He hesitates, then fumbles with the veil, slowly raising it over her head.* Hello Again Wife. *He smiles before leaning in and placing a simple kiss on her cheek.*

Mercy: *was internally freaking out, did she really just do this? Really just married a man she didn’t know? He lifted her veil and she glanced at him with a small smile at the word “wife” She was someone’s wife. When he leaned in to kiss her she felt scared he was going for her lips but he went to her cheek and relief but also disappointment came over her. She shook it off and exhaled as he pulled away from her.

Officiant: If you all will stand, I would like to introduce to you to Mr. and Mrs. Samuel and Mercedes Evans.

[Family and friends stand, applauding, as the couple turns towards them.  Sam leads them down off the dais, hand in hand.  They smile and wave as they walk back up the grass path.]

-----

Oh my Gosh! Ohmigosh! Ohmigosh! I am married. I just married a complete stranger. Someone I don’t know, who doesn’t know me… I have a husband… I am a wife… Ima need a minute..

-----

Sam: I can’t believe we just did that. *He exhales*  How are you feeling?

Mercy: *glances at Sam and smiles* Like this is some kind of dream… I mean we really just got married back there… how are you feeling?

Sam: *Sighs* I’ll let you know when my brain catches up with the rest of my body.

Mercy: I can feel you on that. And sorry again about those Jones boys, they are trouble.

Sam: *Chuckles, placing his hands in his pockets.* It’s nothing, I do the same to my sister’s boyfriends, all the time.  

Mercy: *glances down to her hands* Yeah well considering I am 27 it gets old really quickly. They are just really overprotective of me I am the only girl and the youngest, well Michael is only older than me by ten minutes so I always argue that doesn’t count.

Sam: *Tilts his head* It’s a brother thing.  We just don’t want anything to hurt our sisters.  You being the baby doesn’t help either. So, you’re a twin…  Wow, I guess that means, you might end up with twins yourself?

-----

I am talking to my wife about children.  That should be normal.  It sounds normal right? Wrong!  May the earth open up and swallow me whole.  I’m such and idiot.  

-----

Mercy: I can understand that, but as a little sister I will speak for us all and say that sometimes we would like to not be embarrassed. *she looked up to him and nodded.* Yeah my parents had two boys and decided to try one more time for a girl and got a surprise, and I very well could have twins too. I guess i just never thought about it much before… can I ask you a question?

Sam: *Rocked on his feet* O-kay…  Hmmm, so you don’t like kids.. Or? *He lets the question just hang in the air as he stares at her expectantly.*  Sure, ask away.

Mercy: *looks at him shocked.* Oh no that’s not what I meant. I just haven’t thought about kids because I was certain I wouldn’t be married or anything anytime soon. I love kids and honestly I cant wait to be a mom, I just don’t like getting my hopes up. *she looks at him the confidence she had a little bit ago now drained. She sighs looking at him with a tilted head.* I know this is probably a ridiculous thing to ask but I have to know. Were you or well are you disappointed?

Sam: I see. I mean no pressure; I know we still have to get to know each other. * he laughed apprehensively.* This is all crazy. *He scratched at his stubble, clearing his throat.*No, this place is gorgeous.  I didn’t really think it would be this formal. My interior design side really appreciates this aesthetic.   I really couldn’t have asked for a more perfect venue.    

Mercy: *swallowed hard.* I ummm I didn’t mean with the venue or the wedding, everything here is amazing… I mean are you disappointed in me, that you were matched with me. *She chewed the inside of her cheek trying to calm her nerves.*

Sam: *eyebrows lowered. * Of course not. You’re stunning and you seem like a really nice woman, from what I can tell. *He smiled encouragingly. *

-----

Stunning. This man could have used any word in the human dictionary to describe me, but he called me stunning. I have no words at the moment I just… *shakes her head blushing* This thing might actually work out.

-----

[A handler approaches, letting them know it’s time to take wedding pictures. Sam helps Mercedes with her train as they move off towards the grounds for pictures.]

-----

[Scene opens with the photographer posing Sam and Mercedes. Sam is posed, standing behind Mercedes with his arms wrapped around her waist, leaning in and kissing her cheek, Mercedes, is posed, reaching her hand up touching Sam’s cheek, while smiling looking down as he kisses her]

Mercy: So we were taken to the pillars where we stood and said our vows, to take a couple of pictures as husband and wife. That still sounds so weird, but not as weird as being posed in a very intimate and sweet position with a guy you barely know. The weirdest part is that it should have made me feel extremely uncomfortable being in his arms like that, but it didn’t. This is the craziest feeling because I don’t know this man, but when he held me and kissed my cheek for the second time today it just felt, right. I am not saying we are a love connection but its good to know that as awkward as it is, we are both just taking it step by step and enjoying the day as it comes.

[The photographer positions them again, they are outlined by white lights with picturesque trees in the background. Sam laughs, trying to be respectful as the photographer asks him to put one hand lower on Mercedes waist. The man physically moves the other into place, just below her ample bosom. The photographer asked them to stare into each other’s eyes, backing away he begins snapping picture after picture]  

Sam: It wasn’t bad.  Don’t get me wrong it’s awkward, holding someone so close that you barely know. I want to say I’m sorry every time I touch her.  But then I remember she’s my wife. I just decided to spend my life with a stranger. Despite that, I think there’s someone there worth getting to know.  We’re more at ease with one another, than we should be considering we’ve only known each other for less than an hour. I think we’re off to a promising start.

[They collectively share a smile, then line up, in their appropriate spaces.] -----

All of this felt like a dream. I think I was a bit distracted when the wedding march began, because my mother started walking without me! -----

[The wedding March begins, and Marley walks down the aisle with her mother. Everyone stood up, her side and his, and Marley looked down the the aisle, and saw him for the first time. Her mother walked her down the aisle. Marley hugged her mother tightly, before taking a step towards him and the pastor.]

MARLEY: Hi. I’m Marley.. Your wife.

RYDER: *takes a deep breath* Hi. Uh, I’m Ryder. *awkwardly fumbles, then holds a hand out, in greeting* Your, uh, husband. *smiles wide*

MARLEY: *Takes his hand, and shakes it nervously, giggling* Hi, Ryder. It’s nice to meet you. *Smiles back, then leans in, and whispers softly* I don’t bite, I promise. *Winks*

RYDER: Yeah! *shakes Marley’s hand and bows respectfully* Marley! It’s great to meet you, Marley! -----

She is very beautiful. And her smile is just so infectious… Huh, I’ve only ever heard people say that about me. *laughs* -----

RYDER: So! You ready to do this? *laughs*

MARLEY: *Smile widens and she blushes* It’s nice to meet you too, Ryder. -----

I can’t get over how handsome he is, and he has such a kind smile. When I walked down the aisle, that was the first thing I noticed. -----

MARLEY: *Peers back at her mother, who grinned, then back at Ryder* I am. Let’s get married!

RYDER: *does a fist pump, as though he actually just achieved something* Alright! *looks to the wedding officiant standing between them, and rests an elbow on his shoulder casually* Listen, man, I got something to tell you. I just met this beautiful girl, right here, and get this? She just agreed to marry me! I know! Crazy, right? You think you can do me a solid and help us out with that?

MARLEY: *Giggles into her flowers as she listens to him talk to the officiant*

OFFICIANT: *Winks* She is quite lovely. I’ll see what I can do. Friends and family. We are here to join Ryder and Marley in holy matrimony. Ryder, Marley’s friends and family want you to know that she is the most kind-hearted person you’d ever meet. She is a hard-worker, caring, and a loving person. Her mother in particular wants you to know how important she is to everyone around her, and wants you to take good care of her.

MARLEY: *Blushing* That isn’t too much to live up to, is it?

RYDER: I’m sure you’ll do that and more. That is your mother? *points to the women who gave Marley away*

MARLEY: Yeah? You think so? *Grins looking at her mother* It is. She’s excited to meet you.

RYDER: *turns his body towards Marley’s mother, puts of arm on his stomach, the other on the small of his own back, and offers a bow* I will do my very best to do as you wish. *turns back to Marley, smile still in place and still audible to the rest of the guests* That wasn’t too much sucking-up, too quickly, right?

MARLEY: *Blushing as he introduces himself to her mother*

MILLIE: You’re a doll, I will be holding you to that!

MARLEY: *laughs* Just a little bit, but it’s fine!

OFFICIANT: *laughs* Marley, Ryder’s loved ones would like you to know that he is caring of everyone around him, is a great leader, and is a lot smarter than he’d have you believe.

RYDER: *sighs and turns to look at his sister, by his side*

JACE: *feigns innocence* What?

RYDER: *turns back towards Marley, without saying anything*

MARLEY: *Raises an eyebrow at Ryder, and the woman* “He’s a big dork, isn’t he? *Grinned over at the woman, and winked at Ryder* Kidding! Let’s go on!

[The vows are exchanged with with shy laughs and excited smiles. Ryder’s ring for Marley is produced by Jace, while Lauren pulled Marley’s ring for Ryder out of top of her dress and hands it to Marley]

LAUREN: *Shrugging* I had no pockets.

MARLEY: *Shakes her head* Classy… *Whispers towards Lauren*

LAUREN: You know it… now give it to him!

[The officiator says their vows and has them put the rings on their fingers]

OFFICIATOR: And with the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride!

MARLEY: *Blushes, looking over at the crowd, before leaning in and kissing him softly on the lips*

RYDER: *kisses back, sweetly, placing a hand on the side of her face and pulls away with a smile* I can’t believe we just did this.

MARLEY: *Hums as she pulls back* Me neither. This is kind of crazy, right??

OFFICIANT: May I now present Mr. and Mrs. Lynn!

[They hold hands as they walk down the aisle, and are taken to a private area where there is some drinks, and they can talk] -----

So I’m a married woman! *Laughs* -----

I bet I looked like the biggest tool, up there. -----

MARLEY: *Takes a sip of her drink* Finally, a moment alone.. *looks over at camera* Kind of.

RYDER: Yeah… It’s almost like we’re on a reality show, or something.

MARLEY: You’d think so, huh? *Giggles* So was your best ‘man’ your sister? I’m an only child.

RYDER: That’s right! My twin sister, Jace. I couldn’t imagine anyone else being my best man. Also, my closest friend, Matt, and my boss and mentor, Kyle. What about your girls?

MARLEY: Twin? That sounds like so much fun, and it makes perfect sense. She’s important to you, so obviously you’d include her. My maid of honor is my best friend, Lauren, and then my co-worker, Janice, and college roommate, Nicole. *Looks down at finger* I love my ring.

RYDER: Yeah? I wasn’t sure if the pink was too girly or the shape was to odd, but it… just looked right. *looks down at his own and plays with it* I actually really like mine, as well. Heh, I kind of just expected a simple band. This is simple, but I feel it’s very me.

MARLEY: Pink is kind of my color. *Sways dress, and shows off pink underside* It’s perfect, it really is. *Stares down at her ring, then looks at his* Yeah? I thought the color was a bit different, and it just called to me.. Looks like we have good taste, huh?

RYDER: Well, duh! We married each other, after all.

[Slowly, the rest of the guests file into the reception area, with the wedding parties sitting together, in the table closest to Marley and Ryder.]

MARLEY: *Sits beside Ryder as everyone filling the outdoor reception area, and watches Lauren flirt with Matt* She is so shameless.. I mean I love it, but I should have known!

RYDER: *lets out a belly laugh* Yeah, well Matt is pretty chill. The only times I’ve ever seen him upset, was at a video game.

MARLEY: Lauren’s a total flirt, I mean she is my best friend, but we’re polar opposites.

RYDER: That’s cool. At least, she’s got your back. You wanna talk about polar opposites, look at me and my sister. She’s super smart and reserved, and I’m really good with people, but not so much anything that had to do with school.

MARLEY: Yeah, she always has. I’m really lucky to have her. *Smiles to herself* Really? I mean that makes sense, even though you’re twins, you’re two different people. You seem close though. I always wanted that growing up. It was just me, and my mom..

RYDER: Well, when we were younger, we fought a lot. We weren’t as close as we are now. But guess what? Now you have a whole new family!… I’d like to offer my sincerest condolences.

MARLEY: No, I get it. Siblings usually do… It’s nice you’re close though, and yeah, I do. They can’t be that bad…. You get me, and my mom. She’s awesome though. Oh you get Lauren too.

RYDER: *looks at Lauren* It looks like Matt’s the one getting Lauren, at the moment. *looks back* Your mom seems sweet. So, what do you do? Like, for a living?

MARLEY: HA! He might. Of course I’d get married, and she’d be the one getting lucky. *Shakes head* She really is, I’m lucky to have her. *Takes a sip of water* I’m a social worker. What about you?

RYDER: *smiles* Well, I, of course, would never pressure you, or anyone for that matter, into sex with someone you just met. *visibly lights up, at the notion of his job* I’m the manager of a fairly successful gaming lounge… That’s like a place where people meetup, like a community center, except it has more of an emphasis on gaming.

MARLEY: I never thought you would. We’ll have to see! *laughs loudly* Oh really? That sounds really cool, and I can tell you like your job, so that is even better! *Looks around* This place is really nice, I was surprised when we pulled up.

RYDER: I like it. It’s perfect. I have to say, I hadn’t much thought about where they would be taking me, until I showed up.

MARLEY: No, same here. A tree house is kind of exciting though! *Leans towards Ryder* So… I mean this still feels weird, right? I still can’t believe you’re my husband!

RYDER: *laughs* Yeah! I can’t really believe it still. Um, I may be far from perfect, but I will do my very best.

MARLEY: *Smiles* For some reason, I believe you when you say that. I’m kind of happy I got you.

RYDER: Haha! Yeah, I feel sorry for the rest of the players of the marriage-lottery.

My stomach is doing flips up into my chest cavity when I first see my husband to be. He’s not exactly what I expected him to look like, but I feel stupid for even having expectations considering it could have been literally anyone standing up there. But all of that aside, he’s incredibly handsome. If he’s got a winning personality to match that smile, I think I got pretty lucky here.

-----

The door opens and suddenly I am met with this beauty in white. She’s a blonde, which I hadn’t realized I’d been hoping for until I saw her. She has a great smile, and she’s shorter and younger than me. Good job so far, experts. Good job.

-----

Jesse: *grins when she’s standing before him* Hi, I’m Jesse.

Kitty: *smiles over at her groom* It’s nice to meet you. I’m Kitty.

Minister: Jesse Kensington St. James, meet your wife to be - Katherine Elise Wilde. Her brother would like you to know that she prefers to be called Kitty. It’s a childhood nickname that stuck, and she detests being called Katherine in anything but ridiculously formal situations. She can be sarcastic and blunt at times, but it’s never intended to be mean. She will often have her nose stuck in a book, but she’s more adventurous and not at all a homebody. She is the kind of girl who will be your best friend, your biggest fan, and everything you need her to be if you let her. And if you ever hurt her, he’s going to have to mess you up a little bit even if you end up being a pretty cool guy.

[Kitty glances over her shoulder and smirks at her older brother trying not to get teary eyed before turning back to Jesse and the minister]

-----

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again - my brother is the only person in this family who actually understands me. He’s kind of the best when he wants to be . . . even if I don’t approve of him threatening to rough up my husband before he’s even really met the guy.

-----

Minister: Jesse’s family and friends would like you to know that he is a very strong and hardworking man. He is an upstanding citizen, has a high moral compass, and is a man of great faith. They’d also like you to know that he’s cranky when he hasn’t had his coffee, and that he is a terrible cook. Do not eat anything he cooks if you value your health. *chuckles along with the guests*

Jesse: *ducks his head* I wish I could say that those last two weren’t true, but sadly, I cannot.

-----

I’m pretty sure that Mike wrote that. I never claimed to be Alton Brown. I hope my new wife knows how to cook.

-----

Kitty: *laughs* Don’t worry. I know how to cook, and there’s always take out.

-----

So the guy can’t cook. I think I’ll survive. As long as he helps me do the dishes, I don’t think there’ll be any problems here.

-----

Jesse: *smiles* Oh thank God....*looks at the minister with wide eyes* Oops...well you know what? That is something to be thankful about.

[The of the ceremony runs smoothly as the minister gave his sermon and carried out the wedding.]

Minister: Now, do you, James Kensington St James, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward as long as you both shall live?

Jesse: *nods* Definitely...I do. *smiles  at Kitty*

Minister: And do you, Katherine Elise Wilde, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward as long as you both shall live?

Kitty: *smiles at Jesse* Absolutely, I do.

Minister: Then, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may now kiss your bride.

-----

My heart stops when the minister gives Jesse the go ahead to kiss me. I didn’t really think about how awkward this moment would be until I was in the middle of it. And now I’m just standing there wondering whether he’s going to actually kiss me or not.

-----

This is, by far, the most awkward kiss I’ve ever been a part of in my life. It’s one thing to kiss a stranger. It’s another to kiss a stranger in front of both of our parents.

-----

Jesse: *leans in and kisses Kitty’s cheek before pulling back*  

-----

There isn’t anything special about our first kiss, but that’s probably a good thing since our families are in the church with us. But at least he didn’t stand there and do nothing. And does that even count as a first kiss if it’s not a kiss on the lips? Still, it was awkward either way. Incredibly sweet and perfect in the moment but awkward to say the least.

-----

Kitty: *smiles at her new husband* What do you say we get out of here and get some pictures taken so we can get the adventure of our married life started?

Jesse: *nods with a relieved smile* Yes, please...it’s kind of weird to stand up here with all of them staring at us. *chuckles*

Kitty: I couldn’t agree more.

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

Am I Really Doing This?

[Santana, Victor, and Linda, are just beyond the aisle. Linda and Victor tear up, Linda sobbing, and Victor remaining stoic, and they both hug their daughter.]

-----

SANTANA: So, I’m about to get married, and it hits me, right then, that maybe this isn’t the best idea. I’m already anticipating that this marriage might not work out, but that’s not fair, at all. There is someone, who I don’t know, who is willing to marry a stranger, but are they ready to marry me?

-----

LINDA: Mi hija!

[Both of Santana’s parents pull away]

-----

And my dad says the most cheesiest thing in the world. And suddenly, I feel like I can do this.

-----

VICTOR: You’ve made a lot of risky business decisions before, but they’ve always been for someone else’s company. *looks into Santana’s eyes* This time, it’s for your own, and I’ll be damned if my daughter doesn’t give it her all.

SANTANA: *fans self to keep tears away and laughs* Thank you, Papi.

[Santana stands before the aisle, her parents right behind her, and walks down it, with them following close by]

-----

SANTANA:If I’m getting married, I’m going to be the best damn wife, I could be. I’m not going to look back, ten years from now, and regret this, because I didn’t put my all, into it.

-----

[Santana makes it to the altar and stands regally, waiting for her bride, and her parents take their seats.]

-----

I’m about to walk down the aisle and I just look at my parents who have been through so much and I realize how much I want that. I want someone to know me that way and to care enough to stick around when things get hard, because the do always get hard… That’s what she said. *Leans forward and waggles brow*

-----

PIERCE: *squeezes his daughter’s hand* This is it, Rabbit. You’re about to get married. I would say there is no turning back but I’ve got the truck gassed up if you suddenly decide you don’t want to do this… I’m not saying this because this person is a complete stranger and we don’t know if she has a record, or a history of murdering her spouses or their families in their sleep… I’m just saying what a dad is supposed to his little girl on her big day. *smiles*

BRITTANY: Um… Thanks dad. But I want to do this. This is going to be good for me. I’m not nervous because I’m too excited. I can’t wait to see her standing there. *smiles brightly then turns to her mom* Mom don’t cry. This is a good thing I promise!

WHITNEY: *wipes away tears* I know it’s a good thing if this is what you want, Honey.  I just can’t believe my baby is getting married. You’re so beautiful and you take such good care of us and your sister and you deserve to be happy. *lets a few more tears fall*

BRITTANY: Mom stop! *sniffles and laughs softly* Besides Chicken is your baby I’m just the spare. The one who came first. *sticks her tongue out at her mother before turning to wrap both of her parent in a hug.*

WHITNEY: We both know you’re my baby and Kelly is yours, I just happen to have given birth to her. *laughs and pulls away wiping away tears* Well now my makeup is ruined. *chuckles*

BRITTANY: No, you look beautiful, mommy. And you’re right I’m your baby Chicken is mine!

PIERCE: You both look beautiful. If we’re going to do this we better get going.

BRITTANY: *throws arms in the air* Wooo! Let’s get me hitched! *links arms with her parents who are on either side of her* I love you guys. *walks out of frame*

So, it’s finally here. The moment where I get married for the first time in my life to someone I’ve never met before. I’ve been sick to my stomach all day because I can’t believe I’m doing this and my mind’s racing. My daughters and sister have kept me grounded, but when I walk down that aisle, and my mom lets go of my arm, I’m gonna be all alone.

-----

[The scenes opens to Puck standing at the back of the barn with her daughters, sister, and mother, waiting for the service to begin.]

Esther: You know you don’t have to do this. There’s a wonderful matchmaker at Temple Hesed. I’m sure they could find you a great girl for you.

Puck: *bounces nervously* Ma, if someone that passed like a billion psych tests, and all of those intense interview questions and be matched me, some old woman at temple is not gonna have as much luck. Besides, I want to do this. I’m so ready.

-----

I’m so not ready.

-----

Puck: My mother is walking me down the aisle. I haven’t had a father since I was nine-years-old. She’s been the only parent I had, and even though she drives me insane most days and hates nearly every decision I make, she’s always been supportive.  

[Shows Puck and Quinn’s family and friends settling into their seats, and it doesn’t take long for the music to play. Iva goes out first, tossing flower petals to the ground followed by Hannah and then Sarah before Puck walks down the aisle.]

Puck: As I walk down the aisle, I’m nervous. I’m excited. I feel like I might puke all over the place, especially when I look over and see the people that might be my in-laws. Of course, I don’t know yet because I have no idea who any of them are, but there’s one lady eying me up good. So I’m gonna assume that that’s my new mother-in-law. She does not look like she likes me much. I’ll just have to win her over with my Puckerman charm.

-----

[Stops at the front and turns to watch Quinn’s wedding party come down the aisle, followed by her.]

-----

I’ve been trying to focus on my breathing today. I can’t believe it’s here, the day I’m getting married… again. This is the craziest thing I’ve ever done so far, but while I’m a little scared, I’m also very sure of it. Because if this other person--my wife--is so sure of herself and this marriage to go through with it, then so am I. I believe in us too.

-----

[Quinn is lead toward the back of the barn by her father, but the stop, unable to see inside yet. She holds tight to his arm and takes in a few deep breaths.]

Quinn: Thank you for doing this for me.

Russell: This is the last time though. I refuse to walk you down the aisle a third time, so get it right now or elope if this one fails.

Quinn: (long pause) Thanks… dad.

-----

I’m about to go down the aisle. I’m about to see my wife and suddenly, nothing feels real and for a brief, panicked moment, I think I might pass out. My stomach is so knotted, but then I think about her letter, the letter my wife wrote me, and her sense of humor in it, and that calms me. And I breathe and then see her for the first time.

[Scene opens with Sam jumping up and down on the balls of his feet.  Cracking his neck from side to side.  He blows out a big breath, then paces shakily away from Sabrina, then back towards her.]

Sam: *Looks at his sister* I can’t believe this shit…  Why didn’t you let me have a drink this morning? *chants* I can do this.  I can do this.

Sabrina: *gives him a concerned shake of the head.* Cause you should be sober when you meet your bride. *Grabs Sam’s hand to steady him.*  I know you’re going through with the ceremony.  So, let’s get this show on the road.

Sam: *Looks puzzled* How can you be so sure?  This is FN bonkers, I’m not sure myself.

Sabrina: *looks at Sam giving him a confident smile.  Shrugging. *  You’ve already given this woman, -this nameless woman, your word.  No matter what I say or do. I know you’re going to go through with this. Your word is your bond.

Sam: Awww, come here. *Pulls his sister into a bear hug, a tear in his eye.*

-----

Sabrina knows me better than I know myself, sometimes.  Actually all the time. *Dry laugh.* Her saying that, was just what I needed to hear.  I have an amazing family.  My mother might not be here right now.  But she’ll come around.  I’m going to enjoy my sister and the gaggle of friends I have here supporting me. *Glances away from the camera, sadly.*

-----

[Sam stands outside the French doors, seconds from entering the gardens. Licking his full lips he looks back over his shoulder absently, and does a double take.  Suddenly, Joanna Evans struts into view.]

Sam: *Turns, sprinting towards his mother, catching her in a hug.*

Joanna: *Hugs him back tightly* I still don’t approve of this wedding.

Sam: *pulls away looking her in the eyes.* I know you don’t.  But, I’m going through with it anyway.  

Joanna: I know.  You, stubborn, stupid ox.  But I love you and I just couldn’t miss you getting married.  *Pats Sam on the cheek.*

-----

[The French door swing open and Sam steps out into a picture perfect space. Sliding his hands into his pockets he moves forward, hesitantly. The grass is so plush under his feet it feels like carpet]

Sam:My mother showing up was the one thing I wanted to day. Now that she’s here I’m completely ready.  Or as ready as I can be considering, I’ve never been this nervous in my life.  But despite the nerves, I know everything is going to turn out fine…

-----

I have been going back and forth about this in my mind all day. A part of me wants to run the other direction as fast as I can, just to go. But another part of me, the bigger part of me knows that I a ready for whatever I find at the end of this journey. Which for me, is a husband.

-----

*Scene opens with Mercedes three brothers hugging her, before walking through the curtains covered door, that hid the pilard Arch scene, to take their seats. Her oldest brother, Malcolm, whispers “good luck” as he holds out his arms to escort their mother to her seat and get a good look at the groom to be.

Mercy: *Stands awkwardly trying to calm her nerves* Am I really doing this? Why in the world haven’t you guys talked me out of this? *looks to her two bridesmaids who just walked out the door with big smiles. She turned to her father* Daddy, what if I can’t do this? What if I get there and he just…

Richard: *Pulls Mercedes into a hug.* If I thought for one second this was a mistake, I would have stopped you from even applying for this experiment. But you knew what you were getting yourself into, you want to see if you can have what your mother and I have, so here is your chance. I love you binks, and I know you spent your whole life being pushed into things by your mother and I, your brothers, but this time, this is something you want so you have to push yourself.

Mercy: And if I changed my mind and didn’t want to go through those double doors? *She looked at him knowing her mind was made up but needing to hear his answer*

Richard: We can turn and walk away, no harm, no foul.

Mercy: *Swallows hard looking at her dad, the curtains were over the closed doors where no one would know if she just walked away…well her family would, and her groom. Gripping the “Try” Necklace her future Husband gave her she closed her eyes, say a small prayer for strength.* I’m ready.

Richard: Well then binks, let’s get you a married.

*Mercedes stands in front of the white curtains that blocked her view, but also everyone else’s. She heard the “Wedding March” Start and butterflies crept in her stomach. Camera pans around to her face as she opens her eyes and and walks through the curtains/double doors.

-----

Mercy: Sometimes you just gotta take that leap and pray there is someone on the other end to catch you, I am choosing to believe in this process and take that leap, and if I fall, or my soon to be Husband drops me… well I have the best support system ever.

-----

[Uneasy footsteps carried Sam shakily a head.  A heavy nervous anticipation fills the eloquent, yet simply decorated grounds.  Though masked, he can still sense the shock and reservation, apparent on both sides of the aisle.  He waves at the well-wishers seated on the groom side.  Opting instead, to greet the bride’s guest.  He shakes every proffered hands. It takes a moment but finally he makes it to the dais.]

Sam: *shakes his hand vigorously trying to regain the circulation to his digits. Holding his hand out in front of himself, he works his hand inspecting his bruised fingers.*  Well, this is great. *Laughing* My hand hurts so bad, I’m no longer nervous. *Pointing to the offending row. He clears his throat animatedly.* Brothers?  

Malcolm: *Laughing at the joke Malcolm’s smile dropped to a small smirk at the word “brothers”* Yeah ‘Brothers’ as in plural

Marcus: As in THREE

Michael: Count em!

Amelia: *looks at her sons then Sam* Do not let them scare you baby, they are harmless.

Malcolm:  Harmless unless provoked. *he said looking at Sam*

[Sam’s: eyes become the size of golf balls.  His head bobs up and down as he mentally counts the men one by one.  He wipes his brow, tugging at his collar dramatically as he giving them a hollow laugh.]

-----

*Robin impression*  Holy death threats batman, she has a lot of brothers.  I never really thought about her family, outside of her mother and father. It’s huge. But I can handle myself.  I could sense the mild shock when I entered the room.  Both sides were a little taken back.  But look, like I told Dr. Wales, love really has no bounds. I wasn’t taught to hate anyone, and I’m not going to risk missing the love of my life for any reason.  

So this is it. I’m getting married, and I’m nervous. I feel like I’m going to be sick, but this can’t be too bad, right??

----- [Marley is with her mother and bridesmaids, getting ready to make their way to the venue. The wedding was taking place at dusk, with chairs and a gazebo where they would say their vows. Marley clutched her mother’s arm. There is basically a covered archway so he won’t be able to see her before she walks down the aisle.]

MILLIE: Don’t be nervous, baby. You look beautiful.

LAUREN: No, you look hot. This guy has no idea how lucky he is!

MILLIE: Though you know we can always turn around, right?

MARLEY:  *laughs nervously* Thank you.  I think I’ll do this though. I want to do this.

[Marley hugs her friends, and finally her mother. The flower girl, and bridesmaids make their way down the aisle, leaving Marley alone with her mother]

MILLIE:  I love you so much, Marley. Are you ready?

MARLEY: *Nodding*  I am.

[Ryder stands at the altar, next to his groomsmen, Kyle and Matt, and his best “man,” his sister Jace. He’s drumming a beat on his thighs and chewing on his lip.]

MATT: *smiles* You ready for this, bud?

RYDER: *exhales audibly, with a grimace* I don’t think anybody would be ready for this.

JACE: You got this, bro. You’re only gonna be stuck in a relationship with someone who could be the devil incarnate, for a year.

KYLE: I’ve seen you do crazier.

MATT: Yeah, plus she might be really hot!

RYDER: *chuckles* Thanks, guys. Makes me feel so much better. -----

*snarky voice*So very helpful. -----

[They collectively share a smile, then line up, in their appropriate spaces.]

So today is my wedding day, and I am feeling a lot of emotions. I’m relieved that it’s finally here. I’m excited for what’s about to happen next, and I’m nervous because this could all potentially blow up in my face. I’m not terribly worried that that will happen, but there’s always that like 1% chance that everything could go horribly wrong. It helps that my mother was cleared to travel, and so my parents are here to support me as well.

-----

[Scene opens on Jesse walking down the hall of the church with his mother, Mike, and Andrew.]

Caroline: *pulls Jesse to a stop just outside of the church, fixing his tuxedo* I want you to know that no matter what comes of this whole...thing, I’m proud of you for taking a chance. I don’t understand why it has to be a stranger, but you, my Little Miracle, are going to make an amazing husband. Hopefully, she will be good enough a wife for you.

Jesse: *pulls her into a tight hug* Thanks for being here, Mom. Don’t you worry. You’re still my number one girl. *kisses her cheek* I love you.

Caroline: I love you too, honey.

Andrew: *walks over to Jesse followed by Mike* Well, here’s the last chance for escape. Mike has the car gassed up in the back. We could be in South Carolina in about four hours and on our way to Mexico by tomorrow.

Mike: *nods and laughs a little, bumping Jesse’s arm with his elbow* This is seriously the craziest thing you’ve ever done, man. *shakes his head* But if you wanna run, we can totally run our business from Mexico.

Jesse: *shakes his head and glances towards the church entrance* No, I’m totally committed to this whole thing. *takes a deep breath* I guess I should make my grand entrance. Let’s go get me married.

[Jesse walks into the church and smiles at his friends and family before walking over to Kitty’s family members and friends and introduces himself to her mother, brother and brother-in-law, saying hello to Finn before taking his spot at the front.]

-----

[Kitty and her dad are standing in the alcove just outside of church’s main entrance. She takes a moment to make sure her headpiece isn’t crooked before taking a deep breath.]

Adam: This is your last chance, Kitten. If you want to run, we can turn around, and I’ll drive you anywhere you want to go. You don’t have to do this.

Kitty: I know. *pauses* I want to do this though. Really. I have to give this a real chance.

Adam: Then lead the way.

[He offers her his arm, and she takes it as one of the PAs opens the door for them to enter. Kitty watches as her niece and nephew make their way down the aisle, followed by her sister and her best friend Rachel. She and her father start to make their way down the aisle together, and Kitty pauses for a moment when she gets her first good look at the man she’s going to be marrying.]

[married-at-first-sight-rp]

A word from the admin...

Due to the debate and wanting to give the players a chance to play, we will be skipping the word from out experts. They will return in the third episode.