Chapter 28: A New Day

David waited with giddy anticipation as the bridal music began. The guests were on their feet, holding their collective breath, their eyes riveted to the spot where the bride-to-be would make her long-awaited appearance. Feeling like a kid on Christmas morning, he could barely contain his excitement. Only a few more moments before Jasmine would come walking down the aisle and into his arms. He’d literally dreamed about this moment and as the bridesmaids entered, he glanced quickly at the note she’d sent him right before the ceremony. He smiled. The feeling was mutual.

__________________________________________________

What a journey, thought Jasmine, walking down the aisle on her father’s arm. The day had been filled with frenzied activity and last minute preparations and yet Jasmine had never been more content.  Even though there were a few butterflies in her stomach, she remembered a time when even the thought of a day like today had her running scared. But besides the expected nerves, she felt joy like she’d never felt and more peace than she would have imagined. It’s really happening, she thought. They had come full circle and now David was there waiting, his eyes locked on her like she was the only person in the world. Tears of gratitude sprang to her eyes as she thought about all they’d gone through to get to this point.

They reached the altar and her father kissed her on the cheek as he gave her away. David took her hand and they faced the minister as their nuptials began.

“Dearly beloved…” began the minister.  The ceremony continued and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room as the two recited the vows they’d written for this day, for this moment.

David reached out and took Jasmine’s hands in his. “I love you. I’ve loved you from the first time I saw you and I haven’t looked back since. I am so grateful for this journey that God has allowed us to share and I look forward to so much more. I’m so thankful for your love and your trust in me, for your trust in God and his plans for us. From this day on, I promise to honor and cherish you. I promise to protect you and to always give my best to you. I promise to spend my life making you happy and loving you with all my heart."

Jasmine exhaled a shaky breath and began: “David, I can’t believe I’m standing here in front of you right now. I had no idea how radically my life would be changed when we met five years ago but now I see that God had an amazing plan all along. Thank you for showing me God’s love in an incredible way. As your wife, I promise to love and cherish you for the rest of my life. I promise to always stand beside you and to never let fear get in the way of my love for you. I promise to honor and serve you for as long as I live.”

Neither one of them heard much after that until, finally, the moment they’d been waiting for arrived.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride,” said the minister. 

You don’t have to tell me twice, thought David as he kissed his brand new wife. He’d wanted to do that from the moment he’d seen her. She looked absolutely breathtaking and now she was his.

“We did it, baby,” he whispered.

She gazed at him for a long moment and he saw the same joy he felt reflected in her eyes. “We did. I love you.”

_______________________________________________________

The happy couple couldn’t have imagined a more perfect evening for their big day. Pale shades of orange and red signaled the beginning of sunset and a balmy ocean scent filled the air. Beautiful candle chandeliers and yellow tulips, Jasmine’s favorite flower, greeted them as they entered the gorgeously decorated reception tent.

Jasmine’s father was the first to approach them. “Welcome to the family, David!” he said, grabbing him in a bear hug.

“Uh, thanks,” David managed to croak out.

“Woah, Dad, careful!” Jasmine teased. “I’d like to hang on to him for a little while before you break him.”

Her father laughed. “He can handle it.” He looked at them for a moment. “Congratulations, you two. I’m so proud of you.”

“You had a lot to do with this, you know. If it wasn’t for you I might have missed out on the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she said. Her voice was filled with appreciation as she fought tears. “Thanks so much. Love you,” she said, kissing his cheek.

A short time later David led Jasmine to the dance floor.

“Ready for our first dance, Mrs. Archuleta?” he asked, pulling her into his arms.

“I certainly am. As a matter of fact I’ve been waiting my whole life,” beamed Jasmine. “And,  I have a surprise for you. A big one.”

“Oh, really?” David raised an eyebrow. “How big?”

Jasmine shrugged nonchalantly. “Well…judge for yourself.”

She draped her arms around his neck and nodded towards the stage as the band started playing their song. 

They’d chosen “To Make You Feel My Love” by Adele. They were both huge fans and that song especially captured their feelings for each other. David looked towards the stage and was shocked to see Adele herself walk out. 

“I’d like to dedicate this to David and Jasmine. Congratulations! I wish you the best.” She smiled graciously as she prepared to serenade the happy couple.

David was almost speechless. “How?”

Jasmine’s face lit up with satisfaction. “You’re not the only one with connections, you know,” she teased.

“Wow, yeah, I’d say this is pretty big. Thanks, baby,” he said as they began to sway to the music. “I knew there was a reason I married you.”

He chuckled as Jasmine poked him in his side. “Alright, alright! I married you because you have the most adorable button nose I’ve ever seen.” He leaned forward and kissed her lightly on the nose.

“Hmm…” She pretended to ponder his answer. “That’s good but, try again.”

“Okay,” said David with a glint in his eyes. “ I said ‘I do’ because that was all I could say after seeing how incredibly sexy you look in that dress. You even wore your hair up and you know how I feel about that.” His tone was serious as their eyes met.  “How about that?”

Feeling heat rising up her neck, Jasmine cleared her throat. “Yes, sir, I’d say that was acceptable,” she quipped, snuggling against him.

David tightened his arms around her. “I love you so much. You’ve made me the happiest man alive.”

She stroked his cheek. “Me, too, so I guess we’re even.”

“I guess we are,” he said, grinning. With that, he covered her lips with a kiss.

_____________________________________________

Red petals blanketed the sand as David and Jasmine’s guests sent them off in a shower of roses. Family and friends yelled well-wishes and the newly married couple quickly made their way to the white vintage Rolls Royce that awaited them. As the car pulled away they waved goodbye.

“Alone at last,” David said. He pulled Jasmine into his arms and kissed her with a passion and abandon that signaled this new phase of their relationship. No longer embarrassed by the feelings that his nearness aroused in her, she kissed him back just as eagerly. Time seemed to stand still as they reveled in this new closeness they now shared.

“I didn’t think it was possible to love you more, but somehow I do,” said David, holding her close. “I can’t explain it.”

“I feel the same way,” Jasmine replied as the car came to a stop in front of their home.

The driver opened the door. David stepped out and extended his hand to Jasmine. “Are you ready for this new adventure?”

“I’ve never been more ready.” As she said the words, she knew that it was true. The fear she’d once felt was only a memory and she looked to their future with hope and excitement.

“Well, there’s only one thing left to do,” said David.

“What?”

Without a word David swept her up in his arms. “David!” Jasmine exclaimed in delighted surprise. He grinned and began walking up the stairs to the front door.

“What kind of husband would I be if I didn’t carry you over the threshold? Besides, we have an appointment to keep.”

Jasmine grinned mischievously. “Ah, yes. The cooking lesson.”

“Yep and I don’t intend to be late.” He opened the door and stopped, looking at her with tenderness in his eyes.

As she gazed at the love of her life, Jasmine was overwhelmed with joy and anticipation of the life they would share.

“Well, what are you waiting for?” she chided, stealing a kiss.

David smiled. “Nothing. Nothing at all.”

He carried his new bride over the threshold and into a new beginning.

{The End}

Chapter 27: The Gift

“I’m so glad you could make it,” said David, as he and Daniel sat on the balcony.  Dinner had been wonderful and now the two brothers were catching up. The view of the LA skyline at dusk was spectacular and they could see the sun beginning to set.

“I wouldn’t have missed it,” said Daniel. “By the way, the house is awesome.”

“Thanks,” said David. “I think having it just makes everything more real, you know?”

“Yeah,” replied Daniel. “I can’t believe that in a couple of weeks you’ll be a married man. How time flies!”

“It does seem surreal,” said David, “but I’m so ready. I feel like it’s been a long time coming.”

“I’m really happy for you,” said Daniel. “Jasmine is a great girl and it’s obvious that you two were made for each other.”

“Thanks. I’m a blessed man for sure,” said David. “So, how have things been with you?”

“Things have been going well,” Daniel replied. “The band is great and I’m just enjoying touring and making music. We’ll start recording a new album soon.”

“That’s awesome!” said David. “I can’t wait to hear it. I’m so proud of you.”

“Well, I have my big brother to look up to,” Daniel said, smiling. “You’re quite the mentor.”

David laughed. “Thanks, Daniel. It’s just great hanging out with you. I’m so glad that you could be here and be involved in all this. It means a lot.”

“Like I said, I wouldn’t miss it,” said Daniel. “Not for the world."

___________________________________________________

“What a great evening!” said Anne, as she prepared to leave. “Thanks so much for dinner.”

“I’m glad you could make it,” said Jasmine. “We just wanted to thank both of you for helping us out with the wedding, and it was great just getting to catch up.”

“Well, thank you. And by the way, the pasta was awesome,” said Anne. “You two should cook together more often.”

“Oh, we will,” said David, smiling secretively and glancing at Jasmine. She could feel her face begin to get flushed.

“Inside joke?” asked Anne laughing, seeing their reactions.

“Something like that,” Jasmine replied sheepishly.

“Oh,” said Anne, ginning. Then, hugging Jasmine she whispered, “We’ll talk later.”

“Okay,” Jasmine replied, returning her grin.

“I guess I’ll be going too,” said Daniel. “Jasmine, it was great seeing you again. Are you ready to gain another brother?”

“Of course!” replied Jasmine. She hugged him. “As long as you remember that as your older sister I’m always right.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Daniel said, laughing. “Alright guys. Thanks again. Have a goodnight.”

“Goodnight, “said David and Jasmine, as they left.

____________________________________________

“Aww, that was great,” said Jasmine, turning to David a short time later as they stood on the balcony.

“It was,” said David. “I’m really glad Daniel and I got to hang out a bit too. We never really get to do that much anymore since we’re always so busy.”

“I know,” said Jasmine, hugging him. “That made me happy too. I know how much you were looking forward to it.”

Then, pulling back she looked at him intently. “What’s wrong?” he asked.

“Oh, nothing at all,” replied Jasmine, smiling contentedly. “I just love you, that’s all. And I’m just so very thankful to have you, to have this. It’s more than I could ever ask for or imagine.”

“I feel the same way,” said David. “I’m so grateful for you.”

“And actually, speaking of grateful, I have something for you,” he said, turning to walk into the house. “I’ll be right back.” A few seconds later he returned, carrying a small package.

“This is for you,” he said. “I hope you like it.”

“David, a gift?” she said, surprised. “You’ve already given me so much.”

“This is special. Open it,” he said.

Jasmine tore off the wrapping paper and found a black jewelry box inside. “Oh,  it’s beautiful,” she whispered as she opened the box and looked down at the diamond cross bracelet made of wood beads.

“I know it’s not very traditional, but then I’ve always thought of you as anything but typical. When I saw it I thought of you,” he said. “Look at the back.”

“‘Colossians 2:13-14,’“Jasmine read slowly. She looked up at him, her eyes beginning to fill with tears.

“Do you remember?” asked David gently, sitting down beside her and placing his hand on her back.

“Of course,” she whispered, nodding her head.

“It was the first scripture you ever shared with me and it blew me away, changed my life. I thought I understood before…but I didn’t really understand all that it meant. I don’t have to pay a price or earn what has already been given fully at the Cross. I see that now. Thank you so much for showing me,” he said earnestly, his heart overflowing with gratitude.

Wiping her tears, she reached out and pulled him to her. “David, there are no words. I absolutely adore it…and you,” she said smiling. “Thank you so much, sweetie.”

“You’re welcome,” he said, looking at her tenderly. “Let’s see how it looks on you.”  Carefully removing the bracelet from the box he slipped it on her wrist.

“It’s perfect,” said Jasmine, holding out her arm.

“It looks amazing on you,” said David, smiling. “I knew it would.”

“I love you, David James Archuleta,” replied Jasmine. “You’re my dream come true.”

David put his arm around her and pulled her close. “And you’re mine,” he replied.

Chapter 26: A Cooking Lesson

“Okay, so I guess I don’t get to carry you over the threshold yet,” David joked as he and Jasmine stood in front of their new home.

Jasmine giggled. “Not yet, sweetie,” she said. “But only a little while left until the wedding. I can’t wait!”

The two had begun looking for a place to call their own shortly after the engagement. Initially they’d contemplated Jasmine moving into David’s apartment, but in the end had decided that they wanted to begin their new lives together in a new home. It was a gorgeous, contemporary house that they’d both fallen in love with from the moment they saw it.  Today, the closing had been surprisingly smooth, and now it was theirs.

“It’s perfect,” said Jasmine proudly.

“It is,” said David. “I can’t believe it’s ours."

Looking at him adoringly and putting her arms around his neck, she said, “It’s ours. I can’t wait to be your wife and call this our home, maybe even have a couple of little ones.”

“A couple?” he said, smiling. “How many is a couple?”

“Oh…maybe three or four,” she said, laughing.

“Really?” he said, smiling. “Well maybe we should get started right away then. It may take awhile. Actually, I guess it doesn’t matter. We’ll have fun trying.”

Jasmine blushed. 

“What?” he said, laughing. “It’s true, you know.” He gently raised her chin. Then stroking her cheek and looking at her seriously he said, “I’m looking forward to it."

“So am I,” she admitted softly. She cleared her throat. "Is it hot out here or what. Let's go inside."

David laughed and kissed her on the cheek. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”

“I know,” said Jasmine. “It’s just that we’ve never talked so openly about it, you know? It’s going to take some getting used to.”

“I know,” he said, taking her hand. “Okay. C’mon, let’s go inside.”

_____________________________________________________

The weeks flew by and as the big day steadily approached David and Jasmine grew more and more excited. Jasmine had already moved into the new house and they’d decided that David would move in after the wedding. It was a fun and exciting time and they were both very grateful.

Now, with only a couple of weeks left until the wedding, they’d invited their siblings over to their new house for dinner. As Maid of Honor and Best Man, respectively, both Anne and Daniel had given the couple invaluable encouragement and help in planning the big event, even though they both lived in other cities.Tonight would be David and Jasmine’s way of thanking them for all they’d done.

I’m so excited for tonight, thought Jasmine, as she waited for David to arrive. He’d been traveling and working on location for a new music video for the past week.   She knew that he was especially excited about getting to catch up with Daniel, who was also a musician and traveled often with his own band. Suddenly the door bell rang.

“Hello, love of my life,” said Jasmine, grinning excitedly, as she opened the door.

“Hey, baby,” David replied, walking in and taking her in his arms. “Let me look at you. “ Her hair was back and in a ponytail, which he always loved. He paused, studying her face before finally kissing her. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too,” said Jasmine. “How did everything go?”

“It went well,” he said. “I think the video will be great. I can’t wait to see it after it’s edited.”

“Good,” said Jasmine, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him close. “I’m glad you’re back.”

“So am I,” he said. Amazing, he thought to himself as he held her. She always seemed to get more beautiful to him every time he saw her. He knew he’d never tire of looking at that gorgeous face every day for the rest of his life.

“So,” asked David, “what are we cooking tonight?”

 “I thought we could make some chicken pasta. It’s a recipe that Dad and I have made before. It’s really delicious,” she said, taking his hand and leading him into the kitchen.

“Mmm,” he said. “That sounds good.”

“And,” she said, “I thought we’d make the pasta from scratch. That’s why we’re getting started so early.”

“Cool,” said David. “I’ve never made homemade pasta before. I guess you’ll have to give me a lesson.”

Jasmine laughed. “It’s a deal,” she said. “Shall we get started?”

“Yes, let’s do it,” he said.

________________________________________________

“Okay,” said Jasmine thirty minutes later, “now we have to let the dough rest for a while. So, in the meantime we can make the chicken.”

“Rest?” asked David, surprised. “This is more work than I thought.”

“It is,” she agreed, smiling. “But I must say that I love working with you. You’re a very good student.”

“Thanks, Ms. Curtis-Smith. And by the way, you’re the hottest teacher I’ve ever had,” he said, winking at her.

“David,” Jasmine joked, “no flirting. It’s not allowed in the classroom.”

“Sorry,” he replied. "But I can’t promise that it won’t happen again.”

“Guess that’s a chance I’ll have to take,” said Jasmine, smiling back at him.

They continued cooking, talking, and enjoying each others’ company. The house already felt like home to them and they were both eagerly anticipating being husband and wife.

“We did it!” said Jasmine excitedly, an hour later. “And it tastes delicious. Don’t you think?”

As she looked up at David she started to giggle.

“What?” he asked.

“You have flour…” she said pointing at his face.

“Oh, really?” he said, smiling back at her. “I’m not falling for that again. Remember last time?”

“I’m serious,” said Jasmine, still laughing.

“Okay, then, where is it?” he asked.

“Here,” she said, brushing her fingers through his hair. “Oops, sorry! It looks like I just added more!”

“Well, that’s funny ‘cause you’ve got some here, and here,” he said as he reached out and quickly brushed flour on her cheek and nose.

Jasmine reached over and grabbed some flour. “Oh… I see,” she said with a glint in her eye. “That’s how you want it?”

“Don’t do it!” he yelled, but it was too late. Jasmine quickly threw it at him. As she laughed, David retaliated and the air began to fill with powder as a flour battle ensued. Laughing, David grabbed Jasmine from behind as she turned to run.

“Looks like there’s no escape,” he said, laughing as she squirmed. “You might as well give up.”

As he was speaking, his lips brushed against her neck. Suddenly, neither of them moved, as the mood between them quickly changed. Realizing what had happened, they both held their breath for a moment and then, unable to resist, he kissed her on her neck. Jasmine gasped as a shock ran through her body. Closing her eyes, she felt his arms tighten around her as he kissed her again. “I knew there was a reason I like your hair up,” he half whispered. As he loosened his grip, Jasmine turned to face him and they kissed feverishly. She ran her fingers through his hair and felt her heart racing as he pulled her closer.

With a groan, David suddenly pulled back. “We have to stop…this is dangerous,” he said reluctantly, his voice hoarse with emotion.

Sighing and dropping her head on his shoulder, Jasmine replied, “I know. It’s just so hard!”

“It is, but only two more weeks to go,” he said, kissing her on the forehead. “I’m counting the days.”

“I am too,” said Jasmine, gazing up at him with a slight smile.

“So, I guess maybe we should save the cooking until after we’re married,” he joked, caressing her cheek.

“Yeah, uh, I agree,” said Jasmine, grinning. “That’s a good idea.”

Chapter 25: One Step Closer

“What do you think about a six month engagement?” asked Jasmine, as David drove her home later that night.

“I’d love it,” David replied. “I think we’ve waited long enough, don’t you?”

“Yes, I agree” said Jasmine. “Plus, I’ve always wanted a spring wedding so it’ll be perfect. It’ll be busy but I think we can do it.”

________________________________________

Truer words had never been spoken. The next few months were very hectic as they juggled wedding planning with their work schedules. Only a few more months, thought Jasmine as she drove to the airport. Her sister was coming into town for a couple of weeks and she was so excited that they would get to spend some time together. It would also be great to get some wedding input from her big sis.

“Anne! I’m so excited you’re here,” said Jasmine as she greeted her sister. They hadn’t seen each other since the accident when Anne had come to visit.

“Jas, it’s so good to see you!” Anne exclaimed as she hugged her.

“Let me look at you, “she said stepping back. “You look wonderful. I’m so happy that you’re okay.”

“I feel great,” said Jasmine, smiling. “And I’m even better now that you’re here. I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too,” said Anne, as they loaded her luggage into the car. “How’s David?”

“Amazing, as usual,” replied Jasmine. “Things have been crazy though with planning the wedding and then traveling for work and gigs. I think both of us are kind of worn out so I’ve planned a little surprise for him for our date this evening. I think we just need some time to just chill.”

“That’ll be great,” said Anne. “And speaking of needing to chill…you sounded pretty stressed on the phone about this whole dress thing.”

Jasmine sighed. “Yes, it’s really been frustrating. Everybody says that when you find the right dress you’ll know it but I haven’t found anything that I love. But,” she said smiling, “hopefully you’ll be my good luck charm today.”

“I’ll see what I can do, little sis,’” she said. “I’ll see what I can do.”

A short time later they arrived at the dress shop where they met up with Lisa.

“Lisa!” said Jasmine. “I want you to meet my sister Anne. Anne, this is my best friend Lisa.”

“Hi Anne,” said Lisa. “Jasmine has told me so much about you. It makes me wish I had a big sister.”

Anne laughed. “She told me a lot about you too. It’s nice to finally meet you, Lisa.”

“Okay, ladies,” said Jasmine. “Are you ready?”

“Are we ready?” asked Lisa, laughing. “I think the question is are you ready?”

Jasmine laughed. The last few times that Lisa had accompanied her on her dress search had ended in disappointment and had not gone very well. They both hoped that today would be the day.

“Yes,” said Jasmine confidently. “I’m ready. Let’s go.”

As they entered the store Jasmine immediately felt overwhelmed. There were so many styles and types to choose from and it was intimidating. She said a silent prayer as the sales assistant walked towards them.

“Hi, I’m Angela. How may I help you today?” she asked.

“Well,  I’m on the hunt for the most perfect wedding dress ever created.”

“Okay,” said Angela smiling warmly at her. “I think we may have what you’re looking for. Follow me.”

Over the next hour, Jasmine tried on quite a few dresses and although they were all very nice, she didn’t feel that any of them were the one.

“Okay, Jasmine,” said Angela, bringing out another dress. “I really think this could be it.”

“Wow, it’s beautiful,” Jasmine said, looking at it closely.

“Let’s try it on,” said Angela.

Moments later, Jasmine emerged from the dressing room as Lisa and Anne watched. She looked absolutely stunning.

“Jasmine,” said Anne, suddenly tearing up. “You look beautiful.”

“Don’t cry,” Jasmine said. “You’ll make me start crying.”

“You really do, Jasmine,” Lisa agreed, looking at her admiringly. “Is this the one?”

Looking at herself in the full length mirror, Jasmine felt a sense of joy and contentment. It was as if it was made for her. “This is it,” she said excitedly. “I’ve found my dress!”

_________________________________________________________

That evening David picked Jasmine up for their date. It was such a relief to know that her search for a wedding dress was over. She’d been a little worried that she wouldn’t find it and that she would have to settle, but now she knew that it would be perfect. She couldn’t wait for the day when she could wear it, when David could see her in it.

“So, how did it go today?” asked David, as he drove.

“Great! I found my dress,” she said. “I can’t wait for you to see it, sweetie.”

“Awesome. I can’t wait to see it either,” he said. “I know you’ll look amazing.”

“It’ll be here before we know it,” said Jasmine, grinning. “Can you believe that in a few months we’ll be married?”

“No, I can’t,” said David, looking over at her. “But, it can’t come fast enough. I can’t wait to see you walking down the aisle.”

She smiled and took his hand. “I know what you mean,” she said. “As busy as it’s been lately I’m looking forward to having it all done and finally being Mrs. Archuleta.”

“I like the sound of that,” he said, gazing at her. “It suits you perfectly.”

“I think so too,” said Jasmine.

A few moments later he asked, “So, why am I driving to your dad’s house?”

“You’ll see when we get there,” she said, smiling secretively.

A short time later, they arrived. David noticed that he wasn’t home. Jasmine unlocked the door and they walked into the house.

“Where’s your Dad?” asked David.

“Oh, he had something that he had to do tonight,” she said coyly.

David followed her into the kitchen. “But,” she said grinning, “I had him pick up a little something before he left.”

David smiled as he saw that it was takeout from his favorite Thai restaurant. “Sweet!” he said, laughing.

“That’s not all,” said Jasmine, grabbing his hand and leading him to the sliding door that led to the backyard.

“Wow,” said David. “This is incredible!”

It looked like an outdoor movie theater, complete with a projector screen and popcorn.

“I had some help from Dad, and also Lisa and Edgar, who’ll be here later,” said Jasmine.

“It’s awesome,” he said, hugging her. “But, I think you left out one very important thing.”

“What?” she asked.

“This,” he said, leaning in close to kiss her. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” she said grinning.

It was a fun evening as they relaxed and watched a movie under the stars. After all of the wedding planning it felt good to hang out with friends and just enjoy each other’s company.What a great evening, thought David as they watched the movie. He loved movies and this was one of his favorites. He put his arm around Jasmine and pulled her close.

“I love this scene,” he said excitedly, a short while later. But, there was no response.

“Jasmine?” he asked, looking over at her. It was then that he realized that she’d fallen asleep, her head resting on his shoulder. She looked adorable to him as she slept, snoring softly.

He smiled and kissed her gently on her forehead. “Goodnight, baby,” he whispered. “Sweet dreams.”

Chapter 24: Only the Beginning

“Congratulations, honey! “  said Jasmine’s mom, Linda.

“Oh, Mom, thank you! I’m so happy! When did you get here?”

“Just this morning. David called me a few weeks ago and said that today was the day. I wouldn’t have missed it. Your brother couldn’t make it but he sends his love. I’m so happy for you, for the both of you,” she said, looking at Jasmine and David.

“Oh, mom,” said Jasmine, as Linda hugged the both of them. She could feel herself getting misty-eyed again.

Then laughing and wiping away tears she said, “Will I ever stop crying?”

“It’s okay, sweetie,” Linda said, smiling. “You’re allowed.”

One by one the rest of their family and friends congratulated them.

“Lisa!” Jasmine exclaimed as they embraced.

“Congrats,” she said. “So, let me see it!”

Grinning, Jasmine held up her hand. “Jasmine, it’s gorgeous!” she said.

“It is,” Jasmine agreed. “I still can’t believe it. So, did you help plan all this?”

“I did, but it was all David’s vision. I just helped set it up.”

“Well, thanks Lisa. And thanks for being such an amazing friend. When did you know?” she asked.

“Actually, the day after we had dinner a few weeks ago,” she said. “It was so hard keeping the secret, especially seeing how sad you were. But now, I couldn’t be happier for you two.”

“Me, too,” said Edgar, walking up to them. “What a difference a few months can make, huh?”

Jasmine laughed. “Yes,” she said. “I’m so grateful for you always being there when I needed to vent, to talk, to have a meltdown.”

“I’m glad I could be there, then and especially now. Congratulations, cuz,” he said, hugging her.

“Thanks. I love you, Edgar. I love both of you,” she said, looking at Lisa.

It was a wonderful evening as they sat down to eat and talk together, to celebrate this joyful occasion. This is incredible, thought Jasmine as she looked around. It was great to be with all of the people they loved so much, to have them celebrating this special time with them. Being here at the beach, under the stars and the lights was amazing and so was the company. The evening couldn’t have been more perfect.

A little while later, James stood up. “I’d just like to share something about David and Jasmine,” he said. “I knew that David was special the very first time I met him. There was just something different about him and I could tell that he really cared for Jasmine. Over the last almost three years, I’ve seen the highs and lows of their relationship, and I’ve seen how much they’ve grown in love for each other. David, I know I’ve told you this before, but it’s a parent’s dream come true to have someone who cares for their daughter as much as you do for Jasmine. I couldn’t have chosen a better man if I’d chosen you myself and you proved that even more when you asked for my blessing a few weeks ago. I want to wish you the very best that life has to offer and I look forward to watching you grow more and more as a married couple.”

There wasn’t a dry eye at the table when he finished speaking. “Wow,” said David, “I don’t even know what to say except thanks, James. That really means a lot coming from you.” 

Then pausing, he said, “And on that note, I have something that I’d like to share as well. I’d like to thank all of you for spending this time with Jasmine and I. We are so grateful to be able to share this with you and we really appreciate your love and friendship over these last few years. I never imagined that when I decided to try my hand at acting that I’d be rewarded in such an amazing way. But, as usual, God had a plan and we’ve seen that plan unfold before our very eyes. “

Turning to Jasmine, he continued. “I’m so blown away by today. I’m amazed at how God has given us the desire of our hearts, which is to be together. And truly, you are the desire of my heart. I think this song says exactly how I feel about you, about us.”

Jasmine hadn’t noticed the guitar before, but now as David picked it up and began to play “You Are My Song” she smiled. “We can share tomorrow and forevermore…” he sang. Once again she felt herself getting emotional, as she often did when he sang to her. His voice, especially tonight, moved her like nothing else. As he serenaded her she tried to fight the water works that were threatening, but to no avail. As he finished singing, she rose from the table and hugged him. “I love you,” she whispered in his ear.

At the end of the evening, after they’d said goodbye to everyone, they spent time alone on the beach praying, pouring their hearts out to God and to each other. Their hearts overflowed with gratitude for all that had happened and it was a truly wonderful time.

“Ahhh,” Jasmine sighed, leaning back against him as they sat looking out at the ocean. “Can it get any better than this?”

David smiled and wrapped his arms even tighter around her. “I have a feeling that this is only the beginning, “he said.

Chapter 23: Celebration At the Beach

“I’ve got another surprise for you,” said David, a short time later.

Jasmine raised an eyebrow. “Another one?” she asked teasing. “I don’t know if I can take any more after this one.”

David grinned. “You’ll love it. I promise,” he said, kissing her one last time before taking her hand.

As they began strolling down the beach, David thought about all that had happened that day. I can’t believe this is real, he thought to himself as he looked over at Jasmine. It had been all he’d thought about for the last few weeks and now it was here – she’d said yes! He could hardly contain his excitement. He wanted to shout at the top of his lungs how happy he was and how much he loved her…and yet it still wouldn’t begin to fully express all that he felt for her. She was the most precious thing in the world to him and he loved her more than he ever thought he could love anyone.

“When did you know?” Jasmine asked, stopping suddenly.

“Know what?” asked David.

“That you wanted to propose again?” she asked.

“Before the accident,” said David, taking her hand and continuing to walk. “But then when you were hurt I just wanted to give it time – time to make sure you were okay then time to make sure that we were okay.”

“Oh,” she said, smiling. “You know, it’s funny. A few weeks ago I was crying on Lisa’s shoulder about how much I wanted to marry you and how hard it was to be patient. What a difference a few months make, huh?”

He laughed. “Yes, it was so hard waiting, especially after Catalina Island. I think that was the turning point when I knew that it was time. I couldn’t wait any longer,” he said, squeezing her hand.

She stopped to look at him. “David, I have to tell you something about before...I'm so sorry. I was so afraid of turning out like my parents that I pushed you away but it was never you. You have always been amazing and wonderful. Thank you so much for not giving up on me, on us. Thank you for loving me the way that God loves us. I am so, so thankful."

At this, she began to cry. David took her in his arms. "Baby, don't cry. That's all behind us now. Remember when you told me that everything happens for a reason? Do you still believe that?"

Jasmine could only nod. 

"So do I. We've learned and grown so much from what we've gone through. I love you more now than I thought possible." 

“I love you,  too,” she said. He pulled her close and kissed her before wiping away her tears.

"I'm sorry to get all weepy. I'm sure I look a mess."

"You look beautiful," he said, planting a kiss on her nose. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, much better thanks to you."

Then, laughing he said, “Okay, let’s keep walking."

"Where are we going?” she asked, managing a smile.

“We’re almost there,” he said, smiling mysteriously.

“No clues?” she asked.

“Nope,” he said, grinning.

It was a lovely evening. Dusk had given way to a brilliant sunset and they could feel the warm ocean breeze. As they continued walking, Jasmine could see something twinkling in the distance. And the closer they got, she heard the sound of voices. Suddenly, she gasped as she saw that it was a canopy of lights with a table set for a celebration in the center. All of their closest family and friends were there, including their parents, and Lisa and Edgar.

“Oh my gosh, David!” she said, stopping suddenly. “You did all this?”

“Tonight is a special night,” he said. “I just wanted it to be perfect for you.”

“It is,” she said, looking at him adoringly. “It’s amazing…I love you.”

“And I love you,” he said.