To have and to hold
Posted on Friday 3 January 2020 @ 15:35 by Commander Caroline Miller & Lieutenant Ricardo Draxx & Captain Melody Jones & Commander Save'ena (Sav) Tillatix & Lieutenant Marbim Rejal & Lieutenant Michael Ki MD & Lieutenant Commander Hayley Godding
Mission:
Ghost Ship
Location: Risa
Timeline: SL 3 1830
3817 words - 7.6 OF Standard Post Measure
ON:
Melody has been out to get a dress and one for Sansa for the wedding. Sansa was bringing Lieutenant Godding as a guest. Melody had been rushed but she suddenly realised there was someone else on Risa that she had to invite.
She went over to the comm system. “Jones to Tillatix, come in please.”
=== Relic Ridge ===
Sav was hanging upside down from a sturdy limb on at large tree growing from an outcropping from a ledge along Relic Ridge in a tourist park. She felt a tug from the lifeline around her waist, so she tugged back to let Miles know she was doing okay. He, for obvious reasons, stayed in the tourist area above behind the fence with the sign, "Experienced Mountain Climbers Only, Certificate Proof Required". She had hers, while Miles had none due to never having attempted to be trained because of being slightly scared of heights. Her comm badge went off, which was tucked away into her Mephetian Honor sashe.
Sav telekinetically touched it and replied, =^= Sav here, Melody. We're off duty, no need to be so formal. How can I help you?=^=
=== Jones Lodging Suites ===
Melody smiled at her close friend. “Hey Sav. Hope You’re enjoying your shore leave. I know it’s short notice but...” she paused and took a deep breath. “Draxx has asked me to marry him. I would love for you to attend. Bring Rejal with you. It’s in an hour at a secluded beach. Please say you’ll come.”
=== Relic Ridge ===
Sav felt several conflicting emotions at once. Joy for Melody finally getting married to support Sansa and be with a loving male. Deep sadness for the loss of her commitment to be with Melody as a co-wife in their marriage. Regret for having lost the love and touch of who she thought was in love with her Melody. She almost dropped from the tree limb, only to catch it with her feet claws, while hoping the sudden one-meter shift in the lifeline didn't scare Miles.
Miles, feeling the line go limp a tad more than he expected, yanked on it all the while remembering what Sav had told him, "I'm an expert, no worrying!" Then she had kissed him, and hustled buns into the forest. Not really asking anyone, in particular, he speculates aloud, softly, "Why do people enjoy heights again...It's ok that I live on a starship, I don't consider that a height issue, but a tree I can't see the top of," sighing to himself he then mutters, "it must be because she's so cute and sexy..."
Sav forced herself to choose joy for Melody and shoved everything else aside. =^= That is sooo Awesome, Melody. You finally have a full family with a Father who accepts Sansa's uniqueness and stability for the future. I am so overjoyed for you. Of course I will attend. If you need me as a witness, I will gladly sign for it. Remember, you deserve this, after all you have been through, it is outstanding you have found someone to be with, love with, hold with, and grow old with. Can you send me the coordinates? And, what is the dress code, in case Miles and I have to change?=^=
=== Jones Lodging Suites ===
Melody gave Sav a bittersweet look and sighed. "I understand what this means to you, and for us. I also realize that you understand what this means to me. You shall always be one of my closest and most trusted friends who I can confide in and you in me. That will never change.
She paused for a moment before continuing. "As far as dress is concerned, just throw on something smart. I've been out this afternoon to get a wedding dress. You'd be surprised how many wedding shops there are on Risa. I'm sending you the coordinates to the beach now. I'll see you there in an hour."
=== Relic Ridge ===
Sav heard the stressors in Melody's voice. She wondered why she thought she had to to that, but then again, it was a big change for them, especially with Drax wanting Sav to stay away from his family. She replied, =^= Okay, you have a wedding dress, I need something smart, and a beach scene, got it. pause And Melody, yes, I understand what this means for you, for Sansa, and I wouldn't change any of it. I will always support you, always. Now, go get ready for that wedding. I need to drag Miles to shops for outfits for him and I. I bet he'll be just *lilting voice* totally thrilled. See you soon.=^=
Sansa had been shopping with Melody and picked out a pale lilac dress. She had gone to collect Hayley from her apartment. She stood at the door and pressed the chime.
For her part, Hayley had been at great pains to find a suitable dress to attend a wedding in. It wasn't exactly something you packed in your suitcase on a 'what if your CO decides to spontaneously marry the father of her child, whose child you secretly fancy and has in turn invited you as her guest' scenario. Therefore, she'd gone to great lengths to get a light purple dress that hugged her generous figure closely but was not overly provocative. It went down to her ankles, but there was a slit up the side to allow the wearer to actually move in it. She got matching purple strapped heels. Hayley had also gone to a salon and had made sure to get her hair done and make-up, so she looked absolutely divine right now.
When the chime went off, Hayley felt butterflies in her stomach, wondering if maybe she'd overdone it, or if she hadn't done enough, or what Sansa would think or did it even matter what Sansa thought and why oh WHY was she overthinking this?! Checking that her earings were on correctly, which were small diamond ones with a matching necklace, she walked to the door and released the lock. The doors parted revealing Sansa wearing her pale lilac dress which really set off her eyes and hair. "Wow..." Hayley said, admiring her. "You look good like that..."
Sansa looked at the dazzling young blond for a moment before replying with a smile and a sly wink. "You don't look too bad yourself." As she moved to embrace her friend before she even realized what she was doing. It was like touching an exposed plasma relay and she didn't know why. Blushing, she stepped back. "We better get a move on, we've only got an hour."
Equally embarrassed at the embrace, but doing a very good job of masking it, Hayley nodded quickly. "Would be bad form for the daughter of the bride to be late, don't you think?" Hayley teased.
Sansa nodded. "We've got to meet Mom back at the villa, ok?" She reached out and took her hand. "Just tell me you can dance fairly well, and that you'll save a dance for me."
Hayley felt the now familiar thrill when Sansa took her hand. "Oh, I can dance alright." Hayley smirked at her. "And you can bet I will save you a dance, although I fear once everyone gets a look at my skills on the dance floor, you may have to wait in line." She grinned mischievously.
Something about other people dancing with her didn't sit well with Sansa and she didn't quite know why. A resolute look came over her. "Well, I'm a good dancer too and when you've danced with me, everyone else will seem like they've got two left feet." She said with an air of pride and something else, something she couldn't put her finger on. She wanted Hayley for herself for... for... she pushed that thought from her mind and concentrated on the matter in hand. She flashed a winning smile at Hayley "Come on, Mom's waiting." she said, pulling her along.
"Okay Okay!" Hayley laughed as she was dragged along by the ever enthusiastic Sansa.
After hanging up with Sav, Melody remembered someone else she better invite. She worked the comm panel once again. "Jones to Miller. Please respond."
When Caroline's face appeared on the screen Melody broke into a warm smile. "Hi, Caroline. It's good to see you. Look, I know this is short notice but I'd love for you to attend my wedding in an hour. It's on a nice, romantic beach here on Risa. I'm sending you the coordinates."
"Did you say wedding Mel?" Caroline broke out in the biggest grin. "About dam time. He knocked you up. The very least he can do is put a ring on it! Can I bring an escort?" she asked looking over at the Merlin's older doctor.
Melody raised an eyebrow as she saw Caroline look at someone off-screen. "Caroline! looks like you've been keeping secrets from me too. So who is he? And yes, of course, you can bring someone with you."
Things had been going well, with Caroline, perhaps too well some might think. However, either way Michael found himself stepping out of the sonic shower in Caroline's quarters. He had just finished dressing when he noticed Caroline on the comms. "Anyone I know?"
"Well I guess the jig is up," Caroline smiled. She waved over Ki. "We have been invited to a wedding Michael."
Melody tried to keep a straight face but raised an eyebrow and her lips curled up slightly at the corners. “Well well Doctor. I didn’t expect to see you here. Aren’t we full of surprises? I look forward to seeing you both at the ceremony and we can have a nice long chat afterward.”
Michael's normally stoic face had a smirk on it. "I would not miss a wedding for the world. And Commander I do not need to be read the riot act as it were."
Melody almost chuckled "I wouldn't dream of it, Doctor. I'll see you both in an hour. Jones out."
=== Relic Ridge ===
Sav pulled herself up towards the branch with her leg muscles, swung herself to catch the branch with hand claws, then shifted with tail and a rocking motion to come up and back on top the limb from being underneath it. She tugged thrice on the line to let Miles know she was climbing back up to him. She deftly climbed from tree to rocks, and then ridge.
Getting to the top she came over to Miles to give him a hug as she said, "Miss me? And, we have been invited to Melody and Drax's wedding at a beach were we will be witnesses. So, we need to go quickly buy some outfits to match her in a wedding dress. I am thinking a seafoam belle dress for me. Sound okay? And, maybe a two piece suit for you?"
Returning her hug and still shaking his head at the trees, he responds, "Wedding, that sly devil. A belle dress, yes I think you'd look good in a dress...um, maybe that came out wrong, wait what did you say, a two piece suit, ok, it is for the Captain, and my second in command, do we want to walk, or should I ring the ensign I 'talked to' earlier about beaming us someplace?" He's got a big grin on his face by this point, but still hasn't let Sav go from their embrace...
Sav didn't notice that Miles was holding her close. She had initiated the hug, and liked being held. She enjoyed that it was Miles, a close friend who was a male who was becoming a boy friend, and she liked very much. It was nice, very nice, to be liked by a male despite her past and who she was. Still, it wasn't as bad as having been in the grip of the Mechani, like Melody. Melody was sooo lucky to have someone like Draxx, yes... Melody was soo lucky, and Sav should have a better attitude about it. She came back to the present, and said, "Yes, beam us around. We have so little time, and so much to get ready for, Melody's sooo special day."
Miles taps his combadge, "Mr. Lebronsky, my Captain needs myself and Commander Tillatix on the double, could you help us out and get us back into town in the clothing district, thank you." Miles's smile turns to one of his mischevious grins as they both dematerialize from the forest and reappear in the clothing district. Tapping his badge again, "Thank you young man, that'll be all for now." Turning to look at Sav he asks, "Now, your dress or my outfit first?"
Sav giggled, then said, "Why, ofa course, t'e Lady's dress, good Sirrah. Then, we can get yer two piece tah match, nahturahly. Common, Weddin shop ana dresses fer Bride's guests."
With a broad grin, Miles replies, "ah Mi'lady, woe become any who steppeth between thee and I and thine dress shoppe, shall we go forthwith unto such a shoppe to peruse said embellishments..." leaning in close Miles whispers, "Do I get to help pick what you're wearing under the dress...you can help me pick something to wear under these slacks you want me in..."
The two came across a Bridal Boutique that also catered to Proms and formal Dates. Sav grinned wide, saying, "Perfect. This place twill handle both ofa us." She led the way in and came over to a Sales Associate in the Bridal area. "Hi, would you be able tah halp us miss?"
The Lady smiled and asked, "So, when is the date of the wedding?" Sav replied, "In less than an hour." The lady shook her head and replied, "Wait, no, not enough time to get you fitted into a proper Bridal Dress and your man into a Groom Tux."
With a loud gulp, Miles quickly intercedes, "The bride is our captain, and the poor unfortunate is my second officer. Now the lady wishes to see a 'belle dress' and I believe something along seafoam colors perhaps, or light purple, that makes the color of her eyes pop...once we're done with her dress, I'll need something snazzy to match."
The associate let out a short laugh and replied, "Ahh, I see. Okay, right this way. We have a seamstress on duty for quick alterations, which will be needed for your gals dress. Right this way..."
The beach looked even more breathtaking at sunset. A few chairs had been placed for the small, select group of witnesses and attendees. Melody, wearing her white dress was stood next to Sansa. Captain Williams who was performing the ceremony was wearing his dress uniform. He had also been on vacation on Risa when Melody had called in a favour. Unfortunately, no Admirals were available so a Starship Captain was just as good.
Marbim appeared calm, but he was fidgeting. His linen slacks were dark, with a matching vest. His white dress shirt seemed out of place on his greyish skin. His tie matched his outfit, but the tie tack was a replica of the Merlin. Catching Draxx's attention for the briefest of glances, Marbim gives him a thumbs up and a big grin."
Sav was dressed in the Seafoam colored Southern Belle dress. It was close enough to being a Bridesmaid dress, without being one, so that if Melody needed her for any bridesmaid duties, she could fill in. She saw Miles give Draxx and thumbs up, and so she did the same, mouthing, "Thank you, Melody Deserves You." She reached over to squeeze Miles arm to let him know she was there, and liked that he dressed accordingly to this wedding. It was always about the Brides needs for the wedding, and Sav though Miles dressed exactly as Melody would want.
Draxx watched as Sansa walked Melody down the small aisle. Both his girls looked stunning. "Thanks, princess," he said to the smaller of the two. He looked at Melody and said "ready to make this official?"
Melody gazed at Draxx in his suit. She whispered as he stood next to her. "You don't have polish up bad. Let's do this thing." She added with a wink.
Having walked her mom up the aisle, Sansa took her seat next to Hayley.
Captain Williams cleared his throat. "It is the privilege of any starship Captain to perform a wedding ceremony and although not part of my crew, I've know Commander Jones here since the academy and I must admit I never thought I'd see the day when she found someone who was good enough for her. The way she describes Lieutenant Draxx here I can tell she has found a man of impeccable character... and obvious good taste. We are gathered here to Join together Commander Melody Jones and Lieutenant Ricard Draxx. If any person knows of any reason they should not be joined, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."
Hayley could feel the radiance coming off of Sansa as she watched her mom marry her dad. There was a mixture of feelings that Hayley was feeling as she watched the celebrations, as she tried to process her own emotional state. Her eyes kept going back to Sansa, trying to catch a glimpse. Was it her imagination or was Sansa stealing a look at her every so often as well? Maybe this was a tad forward, maybe it was okay, after all - they were friends. Hayley reached out and took Sansa's hand and held it supportively as the two were married.
Sansa felt Hayley's hand slip into hers and she gave it a squeeze. Out of the corner of her eye, she kept looking at the radiant blond woman next to her. She thought she kept seeing her glancing back. It gave her a warm feeling in the pit of her stomach and it made her feel better having her there as her mom got married.
Sav was filled with pride for Melody. She glanced around, almost daring anybody to speak out as this was a momentous occasion for Melody. Draxx desired her, needed her, wanted her, and Melody desired the same. Let the family be joined, and let Sansa have the stability of a Married Nuclear Family to have, cherish, and be cherished by. This was a good occasion, a very good situation for all. Sav churred loudly, not realizing it. She shifted to be into Miles for support, and be supporting.
Miles slides a tad, to allow Sav to move in closer to him. Looking around at the small gathering, he fills with a sense of pride and astonishment at how fast this was put together, and who had been invited. As the Captain pronounces Melody and Richard married, he mutters something in Cardassian.
Michael sat and took all of the proceedings in. It was a beautiful ceremony, however, he could not help but think about his own loneliness through the entire ceremony. Before long and without thinking he found himself squeezing Caroline's hand in a loving way. he was happy for Melody and perhaps in due time it would be him standing up there.
After their vows and exchanged rings, Captain William smiled and continued. "Lieutenant Ricard Draxx, Commander Melody Jones. With the power vested in me by Starfleet Command and the United Federation of Planets, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."
Sansa who was crying with happiness gave Hayley's hand one more squeeze before she started clapping.
Sav called out, "Tongue, give good tongue, you're married now...." She glanced over at Sansa, her tail quivering in amusement and commitment to the situation. She whispered to Miles, "My Mom and Dad always did that with each other.. it must be good."
A little blush was showing as Miles quietly responded, "It is." Then looking around he grins and puts his two cents in, "No cheating Draxx, go carry your wife to your room, no transporters now!"
Draxx shot Sav a look. He didn't understand how she could think saying that was appropriate at a wedding in any way. Draxx found himself wondering if she was trying to ruin his wedding day. Clearly they were going to have to have some sort of talk.
He addressed Rejal. "We are going for a drink first. Mel organized a private bar if any guests want to join us."
Melody recovered from Draxx’s perfect kiss and added “Yes by all means, you’re all welcome.”
Sav caught the look from Draxx and got totally confused. Why would he want to get a nice, deep kiss in with his Bride? Then again, this was a Terran wedding, maybe they reserved themselves and didn't really express anything until after the nuptials were completed? But, then, why the dating as though married but not married? Well, that was probably that. Hanky panky galore before marriage, then trim and proper for and honeymoon, then back to same ol' after. Terrans were so weird. However, there was the elephant in the room, the invite. She sighed as she knew what she needed to do so as to not cause any more conniptions for Draxx, or Melody, or Sansa. Turning to Miles, Sav whispered, "We'll go. I've been to other receptions before, you'll enjoy the experience, mm'kay?"
"Yes beautiful, just don't get me too drunk, I have an appalling singing voice, or at least I've been told I do."
Sav giggled and whispered, "Says the guy who loves Klingon operas."
Caroline clocked the looks and confusion between Melody's new husband and Sav and sighed. She leaned over to Ki. "Trouble in paradise I fear." She brightened. "Well I'm off the clock so that appointment can wait till we are back on the ship hopefully. So shall we get a drink?"
"I will never turn down a good sake. I think you know that..." Michael smiled and motioned toward the bar. The thought of Save’ena’s faux pas lingered in Michael's head. It was something his own girlfriend would have to address in due time. He stifled a small chuckle as he thought about the idea that he had a girlfriend.
OFF:
●● Lieutenant Marbim Rejal
First Officer / Chief of Operations
USS Merlin
●●● Commander Save'ena Tillatix
Chief Flight Control Officer
USS Merlin
●●● Commander Melody Jones
Commanding Officer
USS Merlin
●● Lieutenant Michael Ki
Chief Medical Officer
USS Merlin
●○ Lieutenant JG Hayley Godding
Chief Security/Tactical Officer
USS Merlin
●●● Lieutenant Ricardo Draxx
Operations Officer
USS Merlin
