"Wake up sleepy head. It's time for you to get ready for your prince." Bailey pulled the heavenly down comforter off Emily and gently shook her side to side to side to wake her out of her blissful sleep.

Emily slowly opened her eyes and stared at her best friend for a minute before a huge grin appeared across her face. She suddenly jumped up on the bed, pulling Bailey up with her. The two girls started jumping up and down on the king size mattress giggling like young schoolgirls.

"I'm getting married today! I'm getting married today!" Emily shouted with an infectious glee.

Their silliness continued for several minutes, until they were interrupted by a knock on the door. Bailey jumped off the bed and hurried over to answer it Two waiters pushing small tables full of a wide variety of breakfast goodies, fresh fruit, orange juice, and two bottles of gold Armand de Brignac champagne greeted her. A bellhop followed behind them with a very large vase full of white roses, hydrangeas, ranunculus, anemones, and viburnum berries, all of Emily's favorite flowers. Bailey grabbed her purse to give the men a tip, but they kindly refused saying it had already been taken care of. As the men left, Christina and Emily’s older sister, Sarah entered the room greeting Emily and Bailey with hugs.

"Perfect timing; join our celebration!" Emily shouted as she popped open one of the bottles of champagne.

"Wow! You've really gone all out; look at this feast!" Christina said before popping a grape in her mouth.

"I didn't do it. It just arrived right before you. Bailey see if there's a card with the flowers."

Bailey found a small note stuck in between a few roses. She opened the note and read it to the group of girls. "Emily, this is just a little somethin we hope gets your special day started with a smile! Love, Stephen, Freddy, & Tyler. Ps- can't wait to meet you at the end of the aisle! XOXO (hugs and kisses) Stephen.

“Awww!” The girls sighed in unison.

“That is so sweet! Can you please get your boyfriends to remind my husband how to be romantic again?” The girls all laughed at Sarah’s remark. “Laugh now, but you’ll see in a few years.”

“That may be, but for now I’m going to live in the moment because today I’m getting married!” Emily squealed the last few words and started jumping up and down again.

The girls enjoyed their little feast and drinks while listening to a wedding day playlist Bailey put together. It was full of fun songs, like “Girls Just want to Have Fun, I Do, Going to the Chapel, Crazy in Love, and Ever Ever After.” They were having a blast singing along, laughing and dancing in the room.

“Speakin of dreams, are you excited for tonight, Em?” Bailey asked as the Carrie Underwood song ended.

“Of course I’m excited for the wedding. I’ve been dreaming about this day since I was little.”

“That’s not what I meant; I’m talkin about tonight after the weddin.

Emily couldn’t help but laugh as she pulled Bailey in for a hug. “My wedding night isn’t going to be like yours and Tyler’s, we’ve had sex before. You know that.”

“I know, but do you think it will feel different since it will be your first time as Stephen’s wife?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it like that, but now that you said it, I think it will be special and I did buy a special outfit for the evening.” Emily smiled at the thought of finally being Mrs. Prendergast.

“Hold up! Did I hear Emily right, Bailey you haven’t had sex with Tyler yet?” Sarah was positive she misunderstood the conversation. Bailey’s cheeks immediately flushed and she began fidgeting with one of the pillows on the bed. “Oh my God, It’s true! What the Hell are you waiting for? Tyler is one fine piece of ass; if I was his girlfriend I’d be all over that all the time!”

“Trust me, I know how sexy he is. It’s getting harder and harder each day to resist temptation! I’m tryin to wait until we get married, but I’m not sure if I’ll last that long, especially after what happened in New York.”

“Well don’t leave me hanging, what happened?”

Bailey let out a huge sigh, realizing she already said more than she meant to do. “If you must know, I gave him my first blow job.” She whispered the last two words and fell back onto the bed covering her face with a pillow.

“I’m sorry Bailey, I didn’t mean to pry and embarrass you. I think it’s sweet you want to wait. You must have the will power and patience of a saint, but good for you for not compromising your beliefs!”

“Bailey, your smarter than all of us and your first time is going to be more special and in all likelihood a million times better than all of ours combined.” Christina added, pulling her friend in for a hug.

“Speak for yourself Christina. Nothing can beat my first time of a whopping two minutes of excruciating pain followed by every girl’s dream of being caught by her mother. Tyler may have the best abs and ass in the world, but even he can’t compete with that!”

The girls laughed hysterically at Emily’s confession and clear attempt to lighten the mood again.

“So have all of y’all been checkin out my boyfriend?”

“YES!” They shouted in unison and burst into another fit of giggles before enjoying another Mimosa.

“Bailey, I love Stephen very much and wouldn’t trade him for anything in the world. But, I have eyes and damn, Tyler is hot! If you weren’t my best friend, I’d put him at the top of my get out of jail free card.”

“Well, you’re not my best friend so he’s staying at the top of my list! You better watch out Bailey, I might decide to make my move on the dance floor tonight.” Sarah did a little jig for the girls. The girls all laughed at Sarah’s lack of rhythm and horrible dance moves.

“Oh yeah, sis I’m sure that will turn on Tyler.”

“Whatever, you just wish you had moves like mine.”

Sarah continued gyrating around the room as the other girls laughed and eventually joined in. The girls shared a few more jokes about how attractive Tyler is and that Bailey is one very lucky girl. Their fun was interrupted when Bailey’s phone started ringing. Her face lit up, she immediately jumped off the bed, ran over to the desk and answered it.

“Hey Tyler! Were your ears ringin?”

“Why were you talking about me? Only good things I hope.”

“Apparently the entire bridal party thinks you’re hot and has you on their hall pass list.”

“You can tell them, that I’m flattered, but I only have eyes for one girl.”

“And who might that be?”

“Just this beautiful, sweet, and sexy Georgia peach that stole my heart.” When there was no response on the other end, Tyler imagined that Bailey was probably biting her bottom lip and blushing furiously at his compliment. “You still there?”

“Uhm, yeah, the girls just distracted me for a minute.”

Tyler knew Bailey was lying, confirming his guess about her reaction to his compliment. Not wanting to embarrass her further, he decided to play along. “Ok, I won’t keep you long so you can get back to them. I just wanted to let you know Freddy and I are on our way and should be there in a couple of hours.”

“Is Freddy drivin?”

“Yes, I promised you I’d let him drive.”

Bailey sensed some annoyance in Tyler’s voice. “I’m sorry if you think I’m naggin you; I just want to make sure y’all get here safely. You’ve been on a long road trip, the game went into a shootout last night, and accordin to your text, your flight didn’t land until after 2:00. You need more rest than Freddy does right now. Not to mention I want you wide awake tonight so we can show off on the dance floor and make these girls even more jealous.”

“How’d I get so lucky to have a sweet girl like you, care so much about me? I promise I’ll be there with my dancing shoes on, ready and willing to take you for a spin. I don’t know about the girls, but I know I’ll be the envy of every guy in the room with you in my arms!”

Bailey giggled at Tyler’s words. “Tyler the girls are hollerin at me to tell y’all thank you for the wonderful goodies and too hurry up; so I better go. Can’t wait to see you tonight!”

“I’ll meet you on the dance floor soon. I love you Bay.”

“Love you too! Bye.” Bailey was grinning from ear to ear after she hung up the phone and happily skipped over to her friends.

“Girl, you’ve got it bad!” Sarah exclaimed.

“You should see Tyler; I think he’s even worse.” Christina added.

“Really?” Bailey asked with a bit of excitement.

“Oh Please, Bailey you know he adores you!”

“He totally does; it’s kind of sickening how sweet he is sometimes. Pretty sure the two of you are soulmates.” Emily chimed in causing Bailey’s smile to grow even more.

“I hope we can be as happy as you and Stephen are and maybe y’all will be helpin me get ready for our weddin one day.”

“I know we will, but for now come dance and sing with me.” Emily pulled her best friend back up onto the bed and in for a hug. She grabbed her hairbrush off the bedside table and used it as a microphone while singing Bruno Mars’ “Marry You”. All the girls joined in, Bailey on the bed with Emily, and Christina and Sarah on the floor in front of them.

We're looking for something dumb to do.
Hey baby,
I think I wanna marry you.

Is it the look in your eyes,
Or is it this dancing juice?
Who cares “Stephen”,
I think I wanna marry you.

Emily changed the words, giving her fiancé a shout out as Christina recorded the extravaganza for posterity.

Well I know this little chapel on the boulevard we can go oh oh oh,
No one will know oh oh oh,
Oh, come on, girl.
Who cares if we're trashed got a pocket full of cash we can blow oh oh oh,
Shots of patron,
And it's on, girl.

Don't say no, no, no, no-no;
Just say yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah-yeah;
And we'll go, go, go, go-go.
If you're ready, like I'm ready.

Cause it's a beautiful night,
We're looking for something dumb to do.
Hey “Tyler”,
I think I wanna marry you.

Bailey took a note from her best friend, adding Tyler’s name to the lyrics, when Emily pointed the brush towards her. Christina couldn’t resist sending the entire video of the girls singing and dancing to Freddy with a message not to show it to Tyler if he thought it would freak him out. She wasn’t surprised when she received a response, saying Tyler was almost as giddy as Bailey and Emily were in the video and made Freddy forward it to him.

Emily’s mother soon arrived to the suite with the hair and make-up team.The photographer also joined them taking tons of pictures of the girls getting ready. The girls told some of their favorite stories about Emily and Stephen and gossiped while the hair and make-up team worked their magic.

“Bailey, you look gorgeous!” Emily’s mother exclaimed after the hairstylist put the finishing touches on her double-sided loosely braided plaits pulled back into a low chignon with wispy pieces left free to frame her face completing the ethereal look. “Tyler won’t be able to take his eyes off you. I wouldn’t be surprised if between the beautiful ceremony and your beauty if he isn’t inspired to propose to you right on the spot.”

Bailey’s cheeks immediately flushed at her kind words. “You’re too sweet. Thank you, but I think all eyes are going to be on Em tonight.”

“As stunning as my sweet baby is, I don’t even think that is enough for Tyler’s eyes to stray. You have something special with that young man. Mark my words; we’ll be celebrating your wedding day before you know it. Then all my girls will live happily ever after.” She pulled Bailey in for a hug. She had grown very close to Bailey these past several years and treated her like another daughter.

“Gosh, I hope so!”

“You know Bailey, if things don’t work out with you and Tyler I’m pretty sure Stephen’s cousin would love to have a go with you.” Sarah teased.

“Oooh Gross! No offense Em but he’s kind of creepy. He didn’t believe I have a boyfriend and kept hittin on me last night. I’m so glad Tyler will be there today!”

“Ugh, please don’t remind me! I can’t stand Mark and I could really kick myself for not putting my foot down and making Stephen stand up to his mother. Neither of us wanted to even invite him and now he’s wriggled his way to be a part of the ceremony. I’m so sorry you have to be paired with him Bailey.”

“It’s ok Em; I just have to walk with him down the aisle after the ceremony and stand next to him in a few pictures. I get it, I’m the short one.”

“No! It’s just not right, you’re my maid of honor and you should be paired with the best man. I don’t care about what Ms. Prendergast thinks is more aesthetically pleasing. He’s a jerk and she’s always making excuses for him. I know she feels bad for him since her sister died when he was only 16, but still it doesn’t give him the right to treat everyone like shit.”

“Emily, watch your mouth!”

“Oh mom, you’ve said worse than that about him and you know it! You were just as mad as me when you found out he was going to be part of the wedding. Just once, I wish Stephen would stand up to his mom and tell her NO!”

“Well dear, Stephen is a bit of a momma’s boy so you need to get use to it. From what I’ve gathered over the years, all the men in his family are scared of her and do whatever she says. I’m sure they’ve learned it’s just easier that way. Compromises have to be made in every marriage, and dealing with Stephen’s mom is certainly going to be an ongoing one for you. Now lets move on and focus on all the joy you’re new journey will bring!”

“She’s right Em, today’s your special day, don’t let anything get in the way of your happiness. We’re all here for you and will make sure this day is everything you’ve dreamed of. Come on, it’s time to put on your dress.”

Bailey and Christina helped Emily into her lovely Vera Wang strapless Chantilly lace column gown draped at opposing angles, with a charmeuse lining, and a floral sash. The hairstylist put on her veil and added a few flowers at the crown of her head and she was completely ready.

“Oh my goodness Em; you look amazin, just like a princess!”

“Oh no you don’t! If you start crying, I will and then we’ll both mess up our make-up.” Emily scolded Bailey.

Bailey sniffled, then pulled her best friend in for a hug. “Ok, lets get you to your prince!”

Once everyone was ready, they got into the limousine that took them to the church. They met up with Stephen’s sister, Erin and her four-year-old daughter Emma there. Erin also had a newborn and decided it would be easier if they got ready on their own time and just met up at the church. Erin walked down the aisle first, followed by Christina, Sarah, and then Bailey. Each girl wore a different style eggplant colored dress that suits her figure perfectly.

Bailey walked slowly down the aisle with a glowing smile in her one shoulder, cocktail length dress with a cascade ruffle at the shoulder and a matching belt. Her smile grew from ear to ear as she passed the row Tyler was in and he gave her a wink. Erin followed closely behind Bailey dropping rose petals along the path. Emily was then escorted by her dad down the aisle. A few tears fell as soon as she saw Stephen for the first time today. Her dreams were becoming a reality and she was happier than she’s ever been. The ceremony was simple, but quite lovely. The crowd went wild as soon as Emily and Stephen were pronounced husband and wife and they shared their first kiss as a married couple.

Emily practically skipped back down the aisle hand in hand with Stephen after the ceremony. Bailey met Mark at the bottom of the first step and hesitantly hooked her arm through his. About half way down the aisle, he moved his arm and wrapped it around Bailey’s shoulder, yanked her close to his side, and started rubbing her shoulder with his spiny fingertips. Bailey cringed inside at this sudden move and unwanted touch, but she did her best to keep smiling not wanting to ruin Emily’s moment in any way. Tyler didn’t appreciate Mark’s bold move either and could tell it bugged Bailey, because her smile wasn’t genuine. He took a few deep breaths and reminded himself he was at his friends’ wedding and couldn’t make a scene.

After almost forty minutes taking tons of pictures the entire wedding party and all of Emily and Stephen’s relatives headed to the reception. Bailey couldn’t wait to get there so she could finally catch up with Tyler in person after his road trip, but also to get away from Stephen’s annoying cousin. Mark had been hovering over her, taking every chance he could get to “accidentally” brush up against her, as well as making very suggestive remarks making her uncomfortable. It also didn’t help that Stephen’s mother was clearly trying to set them up and kept making remarks about how cute they look together, what a nice couple they’d make, and forcing them to take multiple pictures together. Emily and Stephen tried to redirect Mrs. Prendergast for Bailey’s sake but it was hard to get her to veer from her domineering ways. Once at the reception the DJ introduced the newly married couple and the wedding party to all the guests. After they took a few more pictures Bailey made a beeline for Tyler. She threw her arms around his neck, stood on her toes, and pulled him in for a loving kiss catching Tyler by surprise. When they pulled apart, she lowered her arms to his waist and leaned into his chest.

“Well hello to you too Bay.”

“I missed you!”

“I missed you too. Everything ok?”

Bailey was not one for PDA beyond handholding, a hug, or a quick peck on the lips so he knew something was up. He immediately realized what it was when Mark came over and interrupted them before Bailey had a chance to respond.

“So Bails, who might this be?”

“Her name is Bailey, and I’m her boyfriend Tyler.” Aggravation was clear in his voice as he protectively pulled Bailey into his side.

“Tyler, this is Mark, Stephen’s cousin.” Bailey gestured towards Mark, while maintaining close contact with Tyler.

“Guess you weren’t lying after all Bails, but you neglected to mention he played for the Bruins. I didn’t peg you for that kind of girl.”

“My name is Bailey! The fact he’s a Bruin is irrelevant; all you need to know is I’m taken! Now if you’ll excuse us we have some friends we need to meet.” She looped her arm through Tyler’s and headed towards the bar where Freddy and Christina were hanging out with Sarah and her husband. “Ugh! Bails? Like I’m a fricken bale of hay and what did he mean ‘that kind of girl’? He’s been barkin up the wrong tree since last night and still can’t take a hint!”

“I know he’s family, but I’m really surprised Stephen and Emily wanted an asshole like that in their wedding. How’d you end up paired with him anyways; he wasn’t even the best man?”

“Trust me, it wasn’t their choice. I got the short end of the stick because I was the only girl shorter than him. Thank heavens I’m done with all the bridesmaid duties except a toast; I couldn’t stand another minute of him tryin to put his nasty, hairy hands on me! Tyler, you have no idea how glad I am that you’re here!”

Tyler pulled Bailey back into his chest for a warm embrace and kissed the top of her head. “Sorry you’ve had to deal with that jerk. I’m here now and I’m not going anywhere!”

“Thank you.” She stretched up and gave him a quick peck on the lips.

Tyler pulled Bailey back into his chest, bent down and whispered in her ear. “You know, you really aren’t being a good friend to Emily right now.” Bailey pulled back looking at him confused. “The bride is suppose to be the most beautiful girl here and with you in the room it just isn’t fair; no one can compete with you. I can’t decide if you look more like a Greek goddess or an angel, either way you look absolutely stunning!” He kissed her lips lightly.

Bailey’s cheeks of course turned scarlet in response to Tyler’s compliment. “I love you.” She looped her arms through his, leaned on him as they continued towards the bar.

Tyler grabbed Bailey a Bay Breeze and himself a beer before they sat at a dinner table near the dance floor. Freddy, Christina, Sarah, her husband, and their six-year-old son. The group were laughing and thoroughly enjoying themselves, until Mark came over

“Well looky here, so sweet of you to save me a seat Bailey.” Mark winked as he pulled out the only open seat at the table, which unfortunately was next to her.

Bailey immediately cringed and scooted her chair and body as close as she could to Tyler’s without sitting in his lap. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her in close.

“Won’t your family expect you to sit with them?” Sarah asked, hoping he would realize he didn’t belong with them.

“Nah, in fact my aunt encouraged me to come over here and get to know this sweet thing better.” He put his hand on Bailey’s thigh and gave it a little squeeze, causing her to nearly jump out of her skin. She quickly looked around the table for salvation.

Christina knew what an ass Mark had been at the rehearsal dinner and recognized the fear in Bailey’s eyes. She racked her brain for a way to help. “I’m starving, looking forward to the chicken Florentine. Which entrée did each of you pick? They all sounded so yummy!” Everyone went around the table and either said the chicken dish or fillet mignon, except Mark who selected the salmon with stuffed shrimp Gorgonzola. Christina smiled as soon as he gave his answer and put her plan into action. “Freddy, we need to switch places with Bailey and Tyler. She can’t sit by Mark with her shellfish allergy.”

Freddy and Tyler gave Christina confused looks, knowing darn well that Bailey wasn’t allergic to shellfish. After looking at the pleading gazes from both girls, they realized what was going on and gladly played along.

“Oh, I’ll just get something else.”

“That’s very kind, but I wouldn’t want you to do that on my account.” Bailey said as she and Tyler started to stand.

“Yeah and you can’t change. Emily had to turn in the orders based on the RSVPs and I’m sure that’s what the kitchen has prepared. It might be an extra expense to change it and that wouldn’t be fair!” Sarah chimed in, recognizing the plan and everyone acknowledged his or her agreement.

Freddy and Tyler sat so that Christina and Bailey were both safely situated between them so there would be no chance of Mark weaseling his way next to them again. Tyler kept his hand on Bailey’s leg protectively throughout their dinner. Despite Mark being at their table, the group didn’t allow him to ruin their dinner. They decided to carry on their conversations as if he wasn’t there. He awkwardly tried to join in the conversations, but nobody really paid attention to his remarks. They didn’t even notice when he left after finishing his meal.

Bailey couldn’t help but smile as she watched her best friend dance with her husband for the first time. They selected "Maybe I’m Amazed" by Paul McCartney for their song. As Stephen spun his lovely bride around and pulled her close in his arms, Bailey’s angelic face reminded Tyler of the joy in his sisters’ eyes when they were younger watching Cinderella dance with Prince Charming at the ball.

“I hope that will be us some day.” He whispered in her ear and kissed the top of her head. Bailey responded by kissing the corner of his lips softly, then wrapping both of her arms around one of his and resting her head on it.

They stayed like that through the remainder of the couple’s first dance as well as Emily and Stephen’s dances with their parents. Their peaceful bliss was broken when Stephen’s mother took over the microphone and unexpectedly announced that now it was time for the wedding party to come to the dance floor. When Bailey looked up she saw Mark strolling towards her with an evil smirk across his face. She quickly moved her gaze to Tyler and squeezed his hand.

“You don’t have to do this; just tell him no.”

“I don’t want to make a scene Tyler.”

“We can just tell him you hurt your ankle or something and can’t dance.”

“But then I can’t dance with you or our friends later. I really don’t have a choice. I guess it will be ok, I mean it’s just one dance and what can he do in front of so many people?”

“If you’re sure. Just know I’m right here if you need me.” Tyler wrapped his arm around her shoulder, pulling her close to him and gave her a loving kiss just as Mark arrived at the table.

“Bails, I do believe you’re mine now.” Mark winked and held out his hand towards her.

“I don’t belong to anyone!” She said as she stood, clearly annoyed with Mark.

She made sure to give Tyler another quick kiss before heading to the dance floor completely ignoring the hand Mark offered. When she reached the dance floor Emily and Stephen both mouthed “sorry” to her making it clear they had nothing to do with this. As the music started, Bailey was very gracious and danced with Mark. She offered her right hand to him as she placed her left on his shoulder. She made a point to stand as far away as she could but still reach his shoulder, much to Mark’s disappointment. A quarter of the way into the song, Mark decided to be bold and pulled Bailey close to his chest forcefully. He then let his right hand wander down to Bailey’s ass.

“Don’t be shy; you know you can’t resist me.” He whispered in her ear.

Bailey flinched at this unwanted touch and remark. She immediately stomped on his foot, causing him to jump and release his grasp on her. “Oops! Clumsy me!” She snarked with an angry glare in her eyes.

Unfortunately, that was not enough of a deterrence to stop Mark from making his move on her. He pulled her into him with even more force and gripped her hand tightly. “Oh, Baby you’re going to have to do better than that to stop me!”

Tyler saw the fear in Bailey’s eyes and immediately stood ready to pummel Mark. Freddy placed his hand on Tyler’s shoulder to hold him back.

“Give it a minute, remember we’re at a wedding. The song can’t be that much longer and then you can cut in.”

Tyler took a few deep breaths and shook his head knowing Freddy was right. Bailey would never forgive him if he got in a fight here. Unfortunately he had to just sit back and grin and bear it, waiting for the stupid song to end.

“Look, Bailey’s holding her own against him.” Freddy tried to reassure Tyler as they watched her repeatedly step on Mark’s feet and kick his shins. Bailey was an amazing dancer and certainly not that clumsy, no matter how poor Mark’s rhythm was. Tyler and Freddy couldn’t help but chuckle at her quick and frequent little assaults on Mark.

Bailey was relieved when Emily and Stephen danced over, each taking one of her hands, pulling her away from Mark. Mark gave them a death glare, but knew he couldn’t do anything since it was their wedding. Even his aunt wouldn’t support him if he caused a scene on the dance floor with his cousin. He just had to stand there and watch as the rest of the wedding party joined hands forming a circle and dancing together. After staring at the group in envy for a minute, he stormed out of the room.

As the song ended, Emily pulled Bailey in for a hug. Stephen gave both his bride and Bailey a quick kiss on the cheek before he headed over to the DJ to request a song. Next thing you know “Glamorous” by Fergie came on making Emily, Bailey, and Christina squeal with joy. Sarah joined them as the girls had a blast dancing to the song. At the end of the song they pulled each other in a for a group hug. After the song was over, Tyler Freddy, and Stephen joined them on the dance floor. Bailey pulled Tyler in for a quick embrace before excusing herself to use the restroom.

While Bailey was touching up her lipstick, she saw something, well someone approaching her from behind. When she turned she was shocked to see it was Mark.

“What the Devil are you doin in here?”

“My sweet Bails, I’ve come to collect what’s mine.”

“I don’t know what you’re talkin about; but you need to get out of here! This is the ladies’ room.”

“I’m not going anywhere until I get what I want!” he smirked as he moved a loose piece of hair behind Bailey’s ear causing her to flinch.

“Don’t touch me!” Bailey tried to leave, but Mark blocked her no matter what direction she moved in. “You need to let me go or I’ll scream and everyone will know what an asshole you are!”

“No one will hear you, they’re all too busy dancing the night away in the other room.” He cast a devious grin as he pushed Bailey up against the sink. “Relax and give into your desires! You know you want this.”

Bailey closed her eyes and gagged as Mark placed his hand on her neck, tipping it back before licking her, while trailing his other hand along her breasts. She inhaled deeply and tried to push him away with all her might. “GET OFF ME, You Disgustin Bastard!”

He wrapped his arm around her torso, pinning her own arm against her sides as he pulled her body into his, She could feel the beating of his heart as he pressed his chest firmly against hers. As she struggled, he held her firm, lifting her petite form clear off the ground as he spun her around and compressed her shaking body between him and the counter of the sink. Bailey let out a shriek, which was quickly muffled as Mark’s hand clamped over her open mouth. She could feel his warm breath on her exposed neck as he held his face against hers and whispered in her ear.

“You like it rough huh? Two can play at that game sweetheart.” He said in the most menacing, raspy voice Bailey had ever heard.

Bailey’s struggling ceased and she swallowed hard, her body trembling with apprehension of his next move. Mark forcefully pushed her squirming body forward so she was bent over the counter. He pushed his body flush against hers to keep her pinned down. He took her wrist in his unrelenting grasp, forcefully twisting her arm behind her back. Although her face was buried in the counter with his other hand, she could feel his lecherous eyes roaming her body. Gasping for breath, her heart pounding, she trembled as she awaited his next move.

“P…Please…” she whimpered, turning her face towards her captor. “I’ll do whatever you want.”

“Yes,” he agreed, with a sadistic satisfied smile as he tightened his grip on her hair, causing her to wince in pain. He pushed her dress up over the soft, smooth cheeks of her ass, as he unzipped his pants and pushed himself up against her. “You will!”

As Bailey's mind wandered to thoughts of Tyler, she became determined to get out of this fix. Her first time is suppose to be wonderful and with him, not this mongrel! She took a deep breath, slammed her heel into Mark’s foot as hard as she could, and twisted her wrist to break free from his grasp. When she turned to face him, she jammed the heel of her palm up into his nose and kneed him in the groin. As he dropped to the floor in agony she ran to the door, unlocked it and ran out.

“There you are; I was starting to wonder if you fell in.” Tyler joked when he saw Bailey. His smile quickly turned when he realized she was distressed as she came barreling into him. “Bay, what happened? What’s wrong?” He rubbed her back trying to console her.

Tyler received his answer when Mark stumbled out of the bathroom, wiping his bleeding nose heading straight for them.

“You’re going to pay for this you fucking puck bunny!”

Tyler’s eyes glared at Mark; ready to kill him for hurting Bailey. He instinctively pulled her around to his side so she was partially hidden behind his back. “STAY AWAY FROM HER!”

“That BITCH broke my nose!”

“I’m going to do much worse when I get my hands on you!”

A crowd was now gathered in the hallway to see what the commotion was about. As soon as Emily saw how frightened Bailey was in Tyler’s arms and realized what happened she began to sob.

“You bastard! How dare you hurt my friend and upset my wife on our wedding day!”

“Come on brother, she’s been all over and teasing me the past two days. Then out of nowhere she does this.” He pointed to his bleeding, crooked nose.

“You are NOT my brother so don’t ever call me that!”

“Stephen!”

“Mother, you need to stay out of this! I never should have agreed to invite him to the wedding, let alone be in it. Look what happened because I didn’t stand up to you!” He turned towards Bailey and Tyler. “I’m so sorry Bailey, Tyler. I hope you can forgive me!”

“She hasn’t even said anything, yet you’re taking her side over flesh and blood?”

“What is wrong with you mother? Look at her!” He gestured towards a trembling Bailey clinging to Tyler to hold herself together. Meanwhile Mark was just standing there with a smug grin on his face. “Can’t you see she’s frightened? I’ve known Bailey for a long time and she’s as sweet and nice as they come. She’s been nothing but gracious this entire weekend, putting up with all of Mark’s crazy antics and pathetic come ons. She wouldn’t hurt a fly; unless she felt her life depended on it! So the fact she broke his nose, tells me exactly what he tried to do. He’s lucky Tyler, Freddy and I haven’t beat the shit out of him yet, because I know that’s exactly what we want to do!”

“Bailey, is it true? Did Mark try to hurt you?” Ms. Prendergast. asked after she saw the pain in her son’s eyes, then the fear in Bailey’s.

“Yes mam. He cornered me, and then tried to r..r..rape me in the bathroom.” She buried her face in Tyler’s chest as the tears flowed more steadily.

As angry as Tyler was at Mark, in that moment he was more concerned for Bailey. It broke his heart to see her like this; knowing he couldn’t really do anything but hold her he pulled her even closer to him. Christina and Emily were also visibly upset and came to Bailey’s side in support.

“Bailey, do you want to press charges?” Ms. Prendergast asked and much to Tyler’s dismay, Bailey shook her head no. “I see; well I’m going to take care of this then. Girls, why don’t you show Tyler where the Rockefeller room is and take care of Bailey privately?”Emily and Christina quickly followed the instructions leading Tyler and Bailey to the private room. “Freddy will you please help my son escort Mark out of here?”

“My pleasure!” Freddy didn’t hesitate to grab one of Mark’s arms, applying as much force as he could ensuring he would inflict some pain. Stephen was more than happy to participate too, which could clearly be seen when he nearly yanked Mark’s other arm out of the socket.

“OWW! That hurts! Aunt Clare, why are you doing this to me?”

Stephen’s mother walked over to her nephew and looked him directly in the eyes. “I’ve loved you like my own son and gave you every opportunity possible to make something of yourself. How do you repay me? By preying on an innocent girl and ruining what’s suppose to be the happiest day of my son’s life. If you thought I would just sit back and let that happen, you obviously haven’t paid close attention these past several years. My family is everything and I will do anything for them! Now, You need to leave, go back to the house and pack up your things. By the time your uncle and I get home tonight I expect you to be gone. And don’t even think about stealing anything from the house because I will know. Bailey had mercy on you, but I can assure you I will not! I will have no problem contacting the police and not only report theft, but also what you did here this evening.”

“But I’m your nephew and don’t have anywhere to go!”

“You should have thought of that before you made a fool of me tonight and did something so stupid! As far as I’m concerned you are no longer a part of this family. NOW GET OUT!”

Stephen and Freddy took that as their cue to drag Mark out. They escorted him to his car. The two men looked at each other and then back to Mark before they each took a turn punching him in the gut. Neither one were going to be satisfied just letting him drive away. Before they let him finally crawl into his car, Stephen made it very clear that if he ever saw him anywhere near anyone in his family, he’d beat the shit out of him so hard that he would wish Bailey decided to turn him into the police. After they watched Mark drive away, they headed inside to find the girls and Tyler.

“Em, I’m so sorry I ruined your weddin!”

“What? Bailey you did nothing wrong! Mark is a complete asshole! If anyone should be apologizing it’s Stephen and I. Mark never should have been here, especially after how we all saw him treating you last night. I’m so sorry!”

“She’s right Bailey; I’m sorry too! None of this would have happened if I stood up to my mother sooner.”

Please say you forgive us!!!” Emily pleaded with her best friend. Bailey let go of Tyler for the first time since the incident and pulled Emily in for a hug. Both girls immediately started crying again. “Are you sure you’re ok and don’t need to see a doctor?”

“No, I’m ok I got away before he really hurt me. My wrists are sore from the way he grabbed them and this bruise probably won’t go away for a few days, but it’s not too bad. The heel of my palm hurts the most. Is it always this painful when you hit someone?” Bailey turned to Tyler for a response.

He kissed her wounds gently and chuckled before responding. “I think Thorty would be a better person to ask than me, but yeah it kind of stings for a while. We can put some ice on it and that will help. Where’d you learn to do that anyways?”

“After I got drugged at that club, Christina’s mom signed all of us up for a self defense class. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d actually have to use anything we learned. I’m lucky I remembered it! The whole time I kept thinkin about you and how you’re suppose to be all my firsts. I couldn’t let him take that away from us! You gave me the strength to kick his ass from here to kingdom come!”

Tyler was shocked by Bailey’s words and was rendered speechless. He couldn’t believe her love for him and his for her empowered her like that. Once again, she managed to surprise him in a wonderful way. He placed a gentle kiss on her lips and enveloped her in a warm embrace. Unfortunately the moment was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“May I come in?” Mrs. Prendergast entered the room and walked over towards Bailey and Emily after Stephen gestured that it was ok. “Bailey are you ok?”

“Yes mam.”

“I’m really sorry about the horrible things my nephew did! I’d also like to apologize for enabling him all these years. I feel like a fool for not realizing how manipulative he’s been!”

“It’s ok; we all like to think the best of our families.”

“God bless you for taking pity on his soul and on this foolish old woman!” She bent down and kissed Bailey’s cheek. “And as for you, my lovely daughter-in-law, I hope you can forgive me too. You tried to tell me about Mark so many times and I just wouldn’t listen. I’ve been so stubborn and at times downright nasty to you, yet you stuck by my son and never disrespected me. Stephen is so lucky to have found someone as special as you; I am so glad you are a part of our family!” Tears were steadily streaming down Emily’s cheeks as Mrs. Prendergast pulled her in for a hug. “Stephen, you picked a good one. Next time, you better stand up for your wife and tell this old kook to butt out!” Stephen immediately hugged his mother, then his wife.

“All right, now that all the apologies are out, we have a reception to get back to. Don’t let one crazy person ruin our celebration! We have so much to be thankful for and there’s still plenty of time left to kick off our heels and party!” Emily’s mom had snuck in the room to ensure her daughter and Bailey were ok and to remind everyone there was still another room full of guests.

“Well what do you say Mrs. Prendergast; shall we hit the dance floor?”

“Absolutely!” Emily kissed her husband and led him to the door followed by her mother-in-law, Freddy and Christina.

“Bay, we can go back to the hotel if you don’t feel up to it.” He kissed the top of her head, clearly concerned that she was still shaken by the events of the evening.

“No, I want to stay and celebrate with Em. Besides, we haven’t had a chance to show off our new dance moves.”

“You’re sure?”

“Yes, I just need to freshen up first. Do you think there’s another bathroom somewhere? I don’t think I can go back in the one where he…. he…”

“Shhh, Bay, we’ll find one.” He pulled her in close to his side reassuring her it would be ok and he was there.

“Bailey dear, why don’t you come with me. I’ll have you fixed up in no time and back in Tyler’s arms.” Emily’s mom planned to use the opportunity to make sure Bailey was truly being honest with everyone including herself when she said she’s ok. She knew Bailey had a tendency to hold things in and say or do things to please those around her. She loved her very much and wanted to make sure Bailey knew she was there for her, since her own mother couldn’t be.

“Is that ok?” He gave Bailey one more kiss after she nodded her head yes, before excusing himself. “I’ll meet you on the dance floor.”

Bailey was grateful for the time to chat with Emily’s mom; she’d been like a second mom to her ever since she and Emily became friends. It really helped her to get everything off her chest so she could enjoy the rest of the evening. As much as she loved Tyler, she was embarrassed by what happened and wasn’t sure she could tell him all the details about how Mark touched her. She was afraid it might change the way he looked at her or he might be so angry that he hunts Mark down to kill him. Mrs. Grant helped reassure Bailey that all her feelings were valid, but she had nothing to be ashamed of and should actually be proud of herself for handling the situation the way she did. She encouraged her to talk to Tyler and be honest about her feelings as well as her fears. She said Bailey should give him more credit than that, because his love is obviously very strong for her. All of Mrs. Grant’s words really helped Bailey feel better. By the time they were done with their conversation, Mrs. Grant had touched up Bailey’s hair and make-up. They decided the easiest thing to do was to let out the chignon leaving the back of her hair down, but it still looked quite lovely. Bailey thanked Emily’s mom and gave her a hug before they returned to the reception.

Tyler immediately came over to Bailey and pulled her in for a hug. “Do you feel up to that dance I owe you, or do you want to sit down for a bit?”

“I’m definitely up for a dance.” She kissed his cheek and with that Tyler took her hand, spun her around, and walked her to the dance floor to join their friends.

Everyone forgot about the events from earlier in the evening and helped Emily and Stephen celebrate their nuptials in style. They had a blast on the dance floor. Tyler and Bailey finally had a chance to show off some of the moves they learned in their salsa lessons, impressing everyone. They even taught a few of them to their friends. Emily made almost $1000 during the dollar dance, largely in part to Tyler. Bailey gave a sentimental toast that provided moments of laughter as well as a very touching moment leaving very few dry eyes in the house. At the end of the reception everyone gathered outside and let paper lanterns go as the happy couple exited and said their goodbyes.

“That was beautiful! I’m so happy for them.” Bailey said as she huddled close to Tyler in attempt to warm up.

“Here, take my jacket.” He took off his suit jacket and placed it across her shoulders. “I’m beat, you ready to head out?”

“Yes, can’t wait to get out of these heels; my feet are killin me.”

“I can help with that; hop on.” He squatted down, offering his back to Bailey. She giggled, but didn’t hesitate to take him up on the piggyback ride to get to his car.

Tyler tossed his keys to Freddy, so he could sit in the backseat and hold Bailey close to him. Once at the hotel, Bailey enjoyed another piggyback ride all the way to their room. She kicked her shoes off as soon as they were in the room and ran into the bathroom to change. Tyler was initially caught off guard and slightly disappointed when Bailey emerged from the bathroom dressed in the flannel pajamas she received for Christmas instead of just one of his shirts. When he reflected on the evening, he realized her fashion choice might be related.

“Bay, are you really ok, you know with everything that happened?” He asked as he climbed into the bed beside her.

“I guess so.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

“I do, but not tonight. Can you just hold me?”

Tyler immediately pulled Bailey into his chest. “I’ll always be here for you Bay. I love you!” Comforted by his words, Bailey exhaled relaxing in his arms and snuggling closer. “Sweet dreams Bay.”

Notes

I'm so sorry I did it to y'all again. I really didn't mean to make you wait this long for an update; I had major writers block and then school started. I hope y'all don't hate me! I'm trying to write longer chapters to make things up to you. Thank you again for reading my story and posting such kind comments; hope you'll stick it out until the end! As always, your feedback is truly appreciated.