A huge thank you to each and every one of you for staying the course with me throughout our journey together. After about a year, 27 chapters, and 135,558 words, we are bringing the 24 Hours saga to a close.

A special thank you to Benswoman for your beta reads from time to time for me and for Clarisse Elizondo's inspiring messages and Facebook chats to help see me through this final chapter - which she lovingly refers to as "The Longest Chapter Evah!' LOL Sending hugs and a big Muwah to both of you!

I hope you've enjoyed this and I thank each of my readers for the time you've taken to share with me how much the story has affected you. You have no idea how much that means to me and I hope each of you feel appreciated for the extra time and effort you give me!

The blessing listed later in the chapter is from . When I read it, I didn't think there was anything I could write that would be more beautiful or fitting.

Much love and happy reading.

Kayla

Chapter 27

"The Last 24 Hours…A Fairytale Ending"

"Joseph, I thought I'd lost you." Tears threatened and she closed her eyes to prevent them from falling.

His thumb slid along her lips, parting them slightly. "Never, my love. Never." His mouth covered hers, pulling her into his embrace. Not even twenty-four hours had past, but his body ached to be next to hers.

"When can I take you home?" His hand slid under the jacket of her dress, the thumb teasing as he watched a mix of need and desire wash over her face. God, how he'd missed seeing that.

"I…"

A knock on the door prevented her response and she stepped away. "Come in."

Joseph flashed a quick look, but said nothing. If she thought he was willing to keep hiding his love and affection for her, especially now that they were married…well, she had another thing coming.

Charlotte poked her head in, "The carriage is waiting to take you two to the reception."

Joseph's face twisted, "We're expected to attend the reception?"

She shrugged, "It's a wedding reception and you two were the only ones married today." Charlotte offered a smile, "Congratulations, by the way."

"Thank you, Charlotte. Perhaps you could give us a few more minutes?" Clarisse could feel the tension radiating from Joseph, even from her increased distance from his body.

She looked at her watch, "I think we can spare ten minutes. I'll call Jerome and ask him to select a dress and meet us at the reception."

"Yes, thank you. I appreciate your looking after the details. Perhaps he can bring Amelia a change of clothes as well?"

Charlotte nodded, "Good idea, Your Majesty. Ten minutes."

The door closed and they were alone again. "Are you not wanting to attend the reception, Joseph?"

He rubbed his tired eyes. These had to be the longest days of his life. "I don't know, Clarisse. This has all happened so fast." His eyes quickly sought hers, "Not that I didn't want it to happen, but you have to admit this is a little crazy." His expression sobered even further, "There are things I want to talk to you about…things we should talk about."

She'd taken Doc Weston's advice to heart and not passed up the opportunity to secure a future with Joseph, but her thought process and subsequent actions hadn't gone much farther than the proposal. Wanting to ease the strain a bit, she smiled. "We have about eight minutes if you'd like to start now."

Biting back a retort, he focused on the positive—Clarisse was now his wife. Nothing else really mattered, did it? He moved closer and put his hands on her hips and pulled her body close to his. "I'll only need one of those minutes to address the most important matter."

Heat seeped into her body, centering at the apex of her thighs. Joseph had been so passive the last couple weeks, letting her dictate terms—call the shots—say all the words. She'd almost forgotten how much she liked his more assertive side. Her hands slid around his neck, pressing her breasts further into his hardness. "Tell me, my love."

His hands slid to cup her bottom, holding her even closer. Oh how he wished these damn layers of clothes were gone. "No more hiding. You are my wife now and we don't have to hide our love – not to Charlotte, not to Parliament and certainly not to the people of Genovia."

She stepped back, bringing him with her, until the Arch Bishop's desk slid under her bottom. She tried to move her knees apart to accommodate Joseph's body, but the lack of a slit in her dress limited her range of motion. "Bloody hell." She muttered in a frustrated whisper.

"Cursing in the priest's office, my dear?" Joseph wanted to chuckle at her situation, but he was equally as frustrated by this development. "I hope the dress Jerome picks out for you has a slit."

Standing upright once again, her lips found his—the endorphins washing away some of the pain of the past couple of days. There was still healing to be done for their minds and hearts, but the body…it forgave much easier. She broke the connection for only a moment, "If he doesn't, he'll simply have to go back and find one that does."

His hand slid under the jacket again, eliciting a moan from the woman pressed enticingly against him. "So good to be married to the queen."

"Indeed," Clarisse smiled before pulling his lips to hers again.

^^C/J^^

The double tapping of the staff echoed loudly on the marble floor. The double doors opened and a deep, bass voice filled the room: "Announcing Her Majesty, Queen Clarisse Renaldi-Romero and Joseph Romero, Prince Consort."

Shade allowed the slightest upturn of his mouth as he watched Charlotte and Amelia cover their mouths and gasp when the couple emerged and a moment later, their fingers wiped away an errant tear. Women! How sappy and sentimental can you get? His eyes followed theirs to see his reigning queen and boss step through the doorway. Typically a man of few words, only one came into his mind: Radiant. He heard a nearby reporter whispering into her recorder:

Queen Clarisse is radiant in a midnight-blue satin gown with diamond accents. The scooped bodice reveals a modest amount of skin and we believe the glint of a single gold chain can be seen. The waist is cinched with additional diamonds and falls to a simple skirt and, of course, the trademark slit which allows the queen, known for her skill on the dance floor, to move effortlessly. I must confess, though, despite the beauty of her dress, her smile outshines the diamonds on her attire and her tiara. The color of the dress sets off-sets her eyes perfectly. I've heard others report a "melting of the Ice Queen"

Shades bristled at the Ice Queen reference – those people obviously didn't know the queen as he did. From affectionate and gentle with her staff to her blood heating with disappointment and anger, he'd witnessed a wide range of emotions from the so-called Ice Queen. He also believed his boss had witnessed far more…had been responsible for many more private emotions.

Thinking of his boss, his chest swelled with pride at the man walking beside the woman everyone was focused on. His black tux and crisp white shirt now boasted matching midnight blue accent scarves and tie. The cufflinks, however, were the same ones he'd worn to every formal event since the Christmas he'd received them as a gift. Though the words had never been said out loud, everyone knew the gift had been from the Queen. He and Charlotte had been privy to far more private moments between the two and he, for one, was grateful they'd found a way to make this work. He would never forget the jealousy he'd witnessed in his monarch's eyes the day she'd watched Joseph flirting with another woman in the line of work. He didn't want to imagine how much sweet talking…and God knows what else…Joseph had to do to get out of that mess – even if it really hadn't been his fault. And, of course, the jealousy in Joseph's eyes the night the queen had went into the Sheik's tent alone. Definitely a miracle these two made it work!

"Ladies and gentleman, thank you for joining Joseph and I here this evening. I promise to keep this brief as I'm certain you're anxious to end your evening with dinner and dancing. For as long as I can remember, Genovia has been my one true love. You have grown strong and are a proud, vibrant nation and, together, we have overcome everything life has thrown at us. Through the loss of loved ones, destroyed pear crops and shortages of natural resources – through it all our spirits have only grown more resilient."

Clarisse found Amelia's face in the front of the crowd and smiled, "I, along with you, am excited as Genovia enters into a new phase in her life and the future being led by the soon-to-be-crowned, Princess Amelia. As Genovia enters into her new future, I do the same on a personal level with a man who has walked beside me and been a friend for as long as I can remember. Thank you for your love and support today. While my role in your lives will soon be changing, the role you play in my heart will forever remain the same. Thank you."

Joseph lifted her hand to kiss and Amelia's voice could be heard over the general murmurs of appreciation for the Queen's words. "Long live Queen Clarisse!"

The crowd echoed their future queen's words and shouted so all could hear, "Long live Queen Clarisse!"

Clarisse blushed and nodded her thanks before catching the eye of the conductor. With a slight incline of her head, he took his cue and started the music of "The Wango". Joseph turned her and kissed her on the forehead, "May I have this dance?"

"Today, always and forever."

^^C/J^^

"Finally," Joseph whispered when the door to their suite closed behind them. Their suite. He liked the sound of that. Of course, her place was bigger than his so it made sense for him to move over. Besides, moving her clothes would be too much of an ordeal.

"Would you prefer to stay in your suite tonight, Joseph?"

He moved closer, his hands coming to rest on her waist. "I prefer to stay with you, wherever you are. If you prefer the privacy of my suite, I'm happy as well. As long as we sleep in the same bed."

Clarisse slid her hands up Joseph's chest and under his jacket, effectively removing the first layer. "I prefer we do more than sleep in whatever bed we occupy."

He backed her against the wall and pressed his body firmly against hers. "I'm not going to last long—it's been entirely too many days since I've watched you come undone. Not sure we'll make it to the bed."

She angled her neck to allow him access to the creamy expanse of flesh. A low moan slid from her parted lips as his mouth nipped and kissed the flesh. She wasn't going to last long either. "Call security."

His mind flashed back to that first day in the gazebo. The thunder, the lightning…the rain. She'd issued a similar command then, as well. Never needing to be told twice, he knew exactly what she wanted. Stepping back, his hand ran along the neck he'd just been kissing traversing to the swell of her breast. "Don't move."

No answer from her beautiful lips – only the rise and fall of her chest and no movement otherwise. Joseph stepped to the phone and dialed the security hub. "Shades?"

"Yes boss."

"Can you confirm we've gone dark?"

Shades smiled. Joseph wanted to get busy with the queen somewhere besides her bedroom. He flipped the camera switch turning off all eyes into the Queen's suite. "The Eagle's nest is dark."

"Thanks, Shades."

"You're welcome, Boss. Congratulations."

Joseph smiled, his chest swelling with the pride for the young man taking his place. "Your day will come soon."

"Hopefully. Thanks, boss. See you tomorrow sometime."

"Joseph out."

His eyes found Clarisse again – waiting for him as instructed. The sight of her chest, rising and falling caused other parts of his body to swell with desire. He wanted her and he wanted her now. Quickly divesting the rest of his suit, he moved to the couch. "Care to join me, my love?"

Clarisse opened her eyes to find Joseph…her husband…making her couch look better than it'd ever looked. His deeply tanned, lean and muscled body provided the best accent possible to the cushions. Her eyes were drawn to the evidence of his arousal—hard, thick and waiting for her. She licked her lips in anticipation. "I see you've started without me."

His hips angled upwards, "This started because of you and I prefer to finish it with you."

Not wanting to waste one more precious moment, Clarisse arched her back and reached behind to unzip the dress. The satin whispered to the floor a moment later leaving a dark midnight slash of color against her pale skin. Lowering the satin and lace garment, she hastened to the couch. "Shall I choose my seat?"

His eyes darkened, the only remaining garment on Clarisse were those damn things she wore to—how did she describe them—hide evidence of her being cold or…aroused. As her long legs straddled his body, he knew she wasn't cold and the feel of her wet heat against him announced her arousal loud and clear.

Hot. Hard. Heavy. Clarisse sighed with relief as his flesh came into contact with hers again. The comfort of his arms surrounded her as he held her close. Her hands cupped his cheek and lifted his face until their eyes met. "Take me, Joseph…take me to that place I can only go with you."

All his resolve to talk, to ask questions, to share disappeared as her hot breath washed over him, sending shivers of delight down his spine and straight to his groin. Lifting her body, his breath held as her hand slid between them to guide him back home. "Dios mio, Clarisse." He needed to breathe—slowly—or this really would be over too soon.

Setting a slow rhythm, Clarisse lifted and lowered her body – silken steel moving in and out of her body coiling her need higher and higher. Pulling her bottom lip between her teeth, her body tensed—an excruciating tightening joining each muscle, each nerve. Holding her in the place where release was jus ta breath away…

So close… almost there. "Joseph…I…"

"I know," he grunted. Holding her hips tightly, he moved lower on the couch to get more leverage. "Now!"

Clarisse lifted her body, but her eyes held his before she began their dance again. "I love you, Joseph…more than I've loved any one person, or a thousand or my wretched sense of duty which almost cost us our future."

"Almost, but didn't. I love you too, Clarisse."

Words faded as her body descended and his moved in counterpoint creating the necessary friction. Each thrust lifted her higher and higher. Her nails embedded in his flesh while his fingers gripped her so tightly she was certain there would be a physical mark. For the first time in her life, those thoughts drove her higher rather than send her into the pits of fear.

Joseph forced his eyes to remain open as sensation after sensation washed over his entire being. Clarisse's breasts bouncing with each movement of their bodies provided adequate reward for not losing himself in the moment. Later, they would take their time and he would kiss every inch, but for now…

"Oh god…merde…Joseph…al—most there. Yes!" Fireworks exploded behind her eyes as the tension released sending sparks of pleasure spiraling through her entire being. Her back arched and held for a moment before she collapsed onto his frame.

He pulled her hard against his chest, feeling the wild beating of hear heart against his was all he needed. With one final thrust into her body, he grunted her name. "Clarisse!"

The room fell strangely quiet as their heavy breathing filled the space around them. Joseph's fingers slid through her hair, pushing the dampness away from her face. He followed his hand with gentle kisses to her forehead and cheek. "Not exactly how I'd planned our wedding night."

Clarisse laughed. "Oh, I don't know, though no bed of roses, I can't imagine being happier than I am right now."

His thumb slid over her well-kissed lips, "And we have night after night to fulfill all of our fantasies. Though, I must admit, you and me on this couch marked one off the top five places to make love to you."

"You have a list?"

"Don't you?" He teased.

"Join me in the shower and perhaps I will share."

Joseph helped his wife…God, how he loved thinking of her that way…up from the couch. "Making love in the shower, check."

^^C/J^^

Clarisse snuggled into Joseph's embrace, his chest as her pillow. She drew lazy circles in the sparse hair on his chest. "Thank you for saying yes today, Joseph. If you had rejected me…"

He pulled her tighter into his embrace, "I would've been a fool to turn you down. You're all I ever wanted, Clarisse."

She looked into his blue eyes. "I was the fool for not running after you and explaining myself better."

Joseph shook his head, "I should've never proposed as I did to begin with."

She laid her head back on his chest, enjoying the rhythmic rise and fall. "What matters is we found our way to each other in the end."

He lifted her hand, noticing the solitary gold band. "You took the ring off. I noticed you didn't have it on earlier today, even at Amelia's wedding."

Her finger tips continued the idle patterns. "I thought a lot about what you said."

Joseph's heart clinched as he remembered the words he said to her that fateful night. Though, true, they were harsh and unintended. "I never should have said that, Clarisse. I was hurt and angry."

"And right." She moved to sit up in the bed so she could look him in the eyes as she shared. "The only thing I don't understand is why you didn't say anything sooner?"

The sight of her in white satin made it hard to remember how to speak, much less why he said what he did almost forty-eight hours ago. "At first, it didn't matter to me. I knew I wanted a long-term relationship with you, but I wasn't sure it would ever happen. I was content to share in the private part of our lives and your bed. After things became even more serious between us and we spoke of our love, it never seemed the right time to bring it up. And," he smiled as he caressed her shoulder down to the swell of her breast. "At the end of the day, I was still happy to be sharing your bed."

Clarisse offered a sincere expression as she explained. "Habit, not duty kept the ring on my finger. Most of the time, I forgot it was there. When you said those words to me, I realized that perhaps a small part of me still hadn't let go."

He kissed her finger tips, "Why would you want to hold on to such a painful past?"

With the same fingertips, she caressed his cheek. "I was afraid of happiness, afraid of love. I hadn't known it in so long, perhaps I'd forgotten what it felt like. When I found it in you, I was terrified it wouldn't last—it was too good to be true. My heart feared giving everything because if things didn't work out…"

She felt strong arms around her comforting and sharing the love of which she just spoke. "You never need fear such things again. Till death do us part, Clarisse. I take my vows very seriously."

A gentle kiss on the cheek, "As do I, Joseph. As do I."

As they settled in to sleep, Joseph focused on the gold band on her finger. Soon, very soon, he was going to make up for the mistakes he'd made and show her how romantic he could truly be. Of course, he'd need a little help, but he knew just who to ask.

The Sheik

^^C/J^^

The day before the Coronation

"Vanessa!" Clarisse closed the distance between them the moment the younger woman stepped through the palace doors.

"Clarisse!" She pulled her into a tight embrace. "Congratulations," she pulled back slightly and narrowed her eyes, "Even if I did have to hear about it on the evening news."

Clarisse blushed good naturedly, "I was a bit preoccupied to call, I'm sorry."

Their arms linked, Vanessa guided her toward the guest suite she'd been given for the coronation. "Well, if that was the reason you didn't call, all is forgiven!" She leaned in to whisper, "I don't suppose you'd share any juicy details?"

Her comment earned her a smack on the arm, "Not even for you, my dear friend."

Vanessa sighed dramatically, "Fine, I shall have to use my imagination then." They stepped inside her suite, "You are honeymooning in Tunisia though. The Sheik and I insist."

"I will need to speak with Joseph."

Brown eyes sparkled, but she held her tongue. She knew Joseph was planning a surprise for Clarisse because her husband was not very good at keeping secrets from her. Or maybe I am good at finding ways to make him talk… "Speak with Joseph this evening and confirm." She winked, "You wouldn't want to jeopardize trade relations would you?"

"You're sassing me again, aren't you?"

Laughter filled the room, "Of course, it's how we communicate."

Clarisse sobered as they were seated on the couch, "It is so good to see you, my friend. I've truly missed you."

Vanessa squeezed her hand, "I know everything has worked out, but are you doing okay? You've had an eventful few weeks."

"How much time do you have?"

"Tell me everything!"

Later that Evening

"Have you been enjoying your visit with Vanessa?" Joseph asked as they snuggled in to bed for the night.

"Mmm yes, I wish I had more time to spend with her, but the coronation details are taking up a lot of time."

His hand slid under her gown to cup her breast, his pulse racing as he felt the pebbled tip harden even further. "I've been thinking about our honeymoon. If we spent it in Tunisia we would have privacy and you could spend some more time with Vanessa as well."

Clarisse turned in his embrace, "Are you certain you won't mind sharing our time?"

He moved over her body, "Promise me every night and morning and I'm willing to share you in the afternoon."

Her arms and legs drew him into her embrace, "I promise. Perhaps even an afternoon or two. It is our honeymoon after all."

His lips hovered above hers, "Then it's settled, we'll leave after the coronation."

The only response he received was an "mmmm" as her lips found his. He smiled into the kiss thinking of all the wonderful surprises he had planned for his beloved. As her softness pulled his body even further into her intimate embrace, he could no longer think of anything except her and this moment …

^^C/J^^

The next day…

"You're up early, darling." Joseph kissed Clarisse's bare shoulder, the freckles glistening in the early morning light.

"I'm worried about Amelia." She turned in his loose embrace, "Perhaps I shouldn't leave right after the coronation."

Joseph had known this would be a concern of hers and this time he was prepared to overcome her objections. "You spoke with Sebastian?"

She nodded, "Yes, he assured me he would be available while we're away."

"You trust him?"

"Of course."

"And Charlotte, you trust her?"

Clarisse smiled, she knew what he was doing. "You know I do."

"Then trust them to handle things for the time we'll be gone." His arms tightened around her again, "Besides, Tunisia is only a phone call away."

Her lips covered his, a gentle pressure, before she rested her head on his shoulder. "Be patient with me."

Without her saying, he knew. "You don't have to let her go all at once. The queen was—is—a part of who you are. No one can stop being who they are." He smiled, remembering speaking the same words to Amelia when they were trying to convince her to assume her role. Now the same words were said to help Clarisse relinquish hers. "She will still need you, but you have to let her find her own way. Trust in your granddaughter and future queen."

"Loss of control is not really my thing, but I promise to try."

"And I promise to be right there beside you every step of the way."

Her eyes closed as his warmth surrounded her. He'd protected her body for so long, but in recent years, the protection extended to her heart and emotions. She inhaled his masculine scent, soap and spice, a comforting aroma she welcomed and treasured. "I love you, Joseph."

He kissed her gently on the top of her head and knew there wasn't a thing in the world he wouldn't do for the woman he now held in his arms.

^^C/J^^

After the Coronation

Vanessa watched as Clarisse spoke quietly to Amelia—not as a grandmother to her granddaughter, but as a Genovian to her newly crowned queen. A queen who had added years of maturity and responsibility on her shoulders the moment the heavy crown was placed on her head earlier this evening. Remembering the trauma she put her grandmother and Joseph through just a few short weeks ago, the transformation was nothing short of amazing.

Wanting to show respect, Vanessa approached the women and bowed, "Your Majesties, thank you for allowing me to witness the crowning of a new queen in Genovia."

She felt Clarisse's hand on her shoulder and then being pulled into a hug. A public display of affection from the former Queen of Genovia? Miracles never ceased. She'd never believed the BS about the Ice Queen anyway.

"Thank you for coming."

Mia smiled, "Yes, thank you so much for coming and for letting Gramma and Joe honeymoon in your country. The privacy is just what the Queen ordered."

Vanessa nodded. Of course, the young queen was privy to some of the details the Sheik had planned along with Joseph. They all hoped Clarisse wouldn't be upset when she learned of their plot to provide her with a fairytale ending.

Joseph walked into the room, "Ladies, the flight crew reports ready to depart. We should be going."

Clarisse's eyes clouded over, tears forming in the blue depths. "Are you sure you'll be alright, Amelia? Joseph and I can honeymoon here."

Mia hugged her tightly, "I'll be fine. Go, enjoy your fairy tale ending."

^^C/J^^

On Genovia I

"Thank you for letting me hitch a ride back to Tunisia," Vanessa smiled at the couple sitting across from her, holding hands.

"It would have been an inefficient use of Tunisia's resources to fly the Sheik's plane over to get you when we were headed that way." Clarisse explained.

Vanessa winked, "Glad our allies are looking out for our resources. Even on your honeymoon, you're working."

Joseph pulled their joined hands to his lips for a kiss, "That will be the last bit of work, short of a national emergency, the Dowager Queen will be performing for the next week or so."

Clarisse turned slightly in her seat, "Oh, is that so, sir?"

His other hand cupped her cheek and pulled her into a searing kiss, leaving her breathless and incapable of any reaction save responding to his kiss. Her body hummed with anticipation as her lips parted inviting him to deepen the connection. For a quick moment, she wished Vanessa weren't sitting across from her as she would've liked to take a meeting with Joseph in her office at that moment in time. When he broke the kiss, his thumb slid across her slightly swollen lips. "That is so."

She blushed, the heat filling her face as she realized there'd been a witness to that fiery kiss. At least it was only Vanessa… She smiled, "Well, why didn't you just say so."

After a moment, she ventured a glance at Vanessa who was grinning from ear to ear. She tried the queen stare but knew immediately it was ineffective. Instead, she simply went with, "Not a word, Vanessa. Not a word."

The younger woman winked, "Yes ma'am. Unlike yours, my lips are sealed."

Instead of embarrassment, Clarisse leaned back in her seat pulling Joseph's hand to rest on her thigh and smiled at Vanessa, "I believe I've witnessed far more intimacy between you and the Sheik…"

This got Joseph's attention as well as Vanessa's. Both sat a little straighter in their seats and turned toward Clarisse.

Joseph's eyes twinkled, "I'd love to hear that story."

Vanessa joined in, "Me too."

Clarisse closed her eyes, remembering the night the Sheik and Vanessa had performed the original version of the dance she and Joseph had performed earlier in the evening to win the right for their countries to negotiate. The original version had been a beautiful, but highly intimate display of the toned down dance they'd done. Remembering also, the pain from that evening she turned to Joseph. "It was the night you left because you were angry with me."

Joseph closed his eyes as the memories washed over him. "The music…"

"Yes," Clarisse squeezed his hand tighter. "The night Vanessa and Tamar danced to the same music you and I did." She looked to Vanessa, "Except you danced the true steps and motions." She smiled at her, "Beauty, grace and love, in motion and set to music."

This time Vanessa had the decency to blush—the things she did for her husband. As she considered the amazing way he'd made love to her afterwards, she knew it had been worth every step. "Yes, well, now that you're married, I'll be expecting you to return the favor."

Joseph's eyes darkened at the thought of dancing with Clarisse so intimately. Regardless of whatever dance they'd chosen over the years, they'd always been charged with sexual tension—each step, sway and seductive move of her body under his hands. This dance would be the culmination of those experiences.

Before Joseph could say anything, Clarisse smiled. "You should probably adjust your expectations."

Vanessa returned the smile, "We'll see, my friend. We'll see."

Clarisse yawned, "Pardon me, I didn't sleep much last night over worry about Amelia and then all the events of the day."

"Is there some place you can lay down?" Vanessa asked.

"There's a love seat recliner in my office, but I wouldn't want to leave you."

"Nonsense, I plan on kicking back and getting some rest as I'm sure there will be much to do when I get home. You two go get some rest and I'll see you when we land."

"If you're sure…"

"Very well." She unhooked her seatbelt and looked to Joseph. "You coming?"

Joseph stood quickly and winked at Vanessa, "Yes, my dear, I am."

"Rest well, Vanessa." Clarisse looked over her shoulder at her friend getting herself tucked under a blanket.

"You too, Clarisse." Somehow I doubt there'll be much sleep going on in there.

^^C/J^^

Tunisia – The home of the Sheik

"Clarisse, Joseph, my love!" The Sheik greeted the three passengers as they got off the plane. He pulled Vanessa into a heated kiss. She'd only been gone a few days, but it felt like an eternity without her body beside his at night.

Vanessa's arms snaked around his neck as her lips found his again.

Clarisse leaned over and whispered to Joseph, "You'd think they were the newlyweds."

Joseph let his hand slide lower to her hip and kissed her temple, "I promise we will live up to our role as honeymooners."

Heat suffused her face, remembering the freedom and intimacy they shared the last time they were here…and they weren't even on their honeymoon then. She leaned into Joseph, relishing the warmth—and the fact they no longer had to hide their love.

The other couple broke for air and the Sheik took charge in a boisterous tone. "Come, let's get you settled. You will want to rest before your ride this evening at sunset."

Clarisse looked to her husband, "What type of ride?"

He lifted their clasped hands. "Horses, privacy and a Tunisian sunset…sounds like a beautiful start to our honeymoon, don't you think?"

She smiled, "Yes, it does."

Vanessa winked, "Oh they don't need rest, Tamar, they slept on the plane ride over." She stressed the word slept.

"Vanessa, are you going to sass me throughout my entire honeymoon?" Clarisse grinned.

The younger woman returned the smile and hugged her, "I'll try not to, but no promises."

"Come, let's go. The day is wasting."

They followed the Sheik to their suite, the same one they'd shared during their last visit. Joseph secretly prayed for rain as he wanted to make love to his wife in the rose garden outside their room – droplets of water cascading all over her body. As memories of their last time together on the bench flooded his memory, the hand on her back slid lower. He wanted to wait until tonight at sunset to make everything perfect for her, but his body had other ideas.

"Afternoon tea will be served in two hours. If you come dressed appropriately, we'll get you to the stables and ready for your ride."

Joseph shook the man's hand. "Thank you for hosting us and for all the attention to the details you've helped me with."

The Sheik clasped him on the shoulder and squeezed. "Despite my reputation, I am a romantic at heart. From the first time I saw the two of you dance, I knew true love would prevail. It is my," he looked at his wife and pulled her closer, "our honor to share in this special time in your lives. Thank you for allowing us such a privilege. No rest with your wife or however you choose to spend your time and we'll see you in a couple hours."

He took Clarisse's hand and kissed the back of it. "Your Majesty."

The Sheik took Vanessa's hand and after a quick wave good-bye, Clarisse found herself finally alone with Joseph. Slipping her arms around his neck, she whispered. "Finally."

^^C/J^^

Later that evening…just before sunset

Clarisse felt as though she were riding the wind as the black mustang sliced through the forest with practiced ease. She could hear the thundering of Joseph's black stallion just behind and to her left. The last twenty-four hours had been perfect thus far: Amelia's coronation, sleeping openly in Joseph's arms on the plane ride from Genovia, making love to Joseph with the warm afternoon sun streaming through the window, tea with her best friend, and now an exhilarating ride through the perfectly maintained forest preserve owned by the Sheik. Truly…could her life get any better?

Joseph pulled ahead and slowed their pace, guiding them to the crest of a hill. Dismounting, they tended to the horses and then Joseph pulled a blanket and small duffel from his pack. He led Clarisse by the hand through the trees to a small clearing and waited.

"Oh Joseph, it's beautiful." She whispered as she surveyed the miles of beautiful trees bathed in the oranges of the setting sun.

"Almost as beautiful as you, my love."

He spread the blanket out and assisted her until they were both lying down. She felt his lips on hers as his hand rested on her waist. Blessed and wonderful privacy were theirs. No chance of cameras or other prying eyes invading into their time together. Perhaps for the first time in their lives together, they didn't have to fear.

His hand slid higher, heating her skin under his skillful touch. Would she ever tire of being touched by him? She didn't think such a thing was possible.

Joseph palmed the generous flesh of her breast, his thumb teasing through the layers of material as his tongue pressed for entrance. Her moans and the way her body responded to his touch made it seem like it had been months since they last made love, rather than hours.

She'd come so far in her journey as a passionate woman. He felt a small sense of pride at being a part of the discovery process. As he considered all of the wonderful times they'd shared over the past years, he knew he'd been compensated more than enough for his role. It was time to give a little back.

Reluctantly pulling away, he pulled her to a sitting position. "Oh Joseph, I was rather enjoying that." Her hand slid down his chest to where his hard arousal rested. She stroked him softly through the fabric causing his hips to involuntarily thrust forward. "It seems you were enjoying yourself as well."

He grabbed her hand and smiled. She was a vixen! "The sun is setting," he explained.

Clarisse sighed. "I suppose you're right. We should be getting back."

Joseph reached into the pack and pulled out a small velvet box and slipped it in his pocket. Moving until he was resting only on one knee, he took her hand. "I'm in no hurry to return, my love. Only to say what I brought you here to say."

"Joseph…your knee."

"Is just fine. Now, please, let me speak." He smiled gently at the worried look on her face. Caring for others and putting them first would always be her style.

He squeezed her hand. "My love, the first time you were wed it was for the benefit of an entire country and the continuation of the Renaldi rule. The second time, it was desperation and fear that brought us together."

"Joseph…"

"It's alright, Clarisse. I am forever grateful for any and all emotions that prompted you to act when the opportunity presented itself."

Clarisse sat up straighter, a concerned look plaguing her features. "As am I, Joseph."

He kissed the back of her hand, "But, Mia was right. You deserve a fairy tale ending complete with grand romantic gestures and a proposal and wedding that is solely for you." He pulled out the box and with ease flipped open the box to reveal a heart shaped diamond surrounded by smaller sapphires. "Clarisse Renaldi Romero, will you do me the honor of marrying me again?"

She gasped as he placed the ring in front of her. Tears welled up in her eyes. This may be the most perfect moment in her life. Complete privacy with the beauty of the setting sun surrounding her and receiving a romantic proposal from the only man she'd ever truly loved. "Yes. Yes, I will…I'd marry you a thousand times over again. I love you."

He removed the solid gold band she'd been wearing from their first wedding day and pocketed it before replacing it with the engagement ring he'd just offered. She held her hand up to admire the ring and smiled. "I love it…almost as much as I love you."

Joseph felt himself being pulled back to their original positions. He looked down at the smiling, beautiful woman under him. "I love you and I can't wait to see you walk down the aisle again. This time, I'll be at the front waiting for you – as it should be."

Her hand cupped his cheek. "Oh, Joseph. I don't need to put on a show for Genovia. It was just so very sweet of you to ask and to give me an engagement ring. I'm touched beyond words."

"I told you, this wedding is for you, my love. Vanessa and Tamar have arranged, if you're willing, to host a small private and traditional Tunisian wedding. Only a few special invited guests will be in attendance."

Clarisse blinked rapidly. Was he serious? "Such as?"

"Pierre, Amelia, Charlotte and Shades. Vanessa and Tamar, of course. The Doc and his new lady friend, if you'd like."

The tears formed in her eyes. He'd truly given consideration to making this a wedding for her. "Pierre?"

His thumb brushed away the tears sliding down her cheeks. "I placed a call to him to see if he might be available day after tomorrow. He can only be here for the day, but he said he would love to see his mother get married and hated that he missed it the last time."

Clarisse smiled thinking of her son, right before the panic set in. "Day after tomorrow? Joseph, I can't possibly plan a wedding in that short of time."

His lips covered hers, effectively silencing her protests. Once he sensed she'd quieted, he whispered. "Vanessa is seeing to the details, you simply have to say yes or no to the options. We believed you'd want a simple affair so other than decorations and the dress, there shouldn't be much else to decide."

"You've been planning this for a while haven't you?"

"Since our wedding night."

Clarisse's eyes darkened as she considered how much the man next to her loved her and cared for every aspect of her life. With her gaze holding his, she slowly unbuttoned her blouse revealing her body to him. "Speaking of our wedding night…where were we?"

"Mi zorra, I love you." Joseph murmured as his mouth lowered to pay homage to the generous swells just revealed to him.

"Mmm, Joseph…" Clarisse was being drawn deeper and deeper into Joseph's sensual web. His hand slid lower as his teeth and tongue continued to lave attention on her breasts. He had begun a slow caress, bringing every nerve into high focus. Undulating hips answered his touch by shamelessly opening her legs and raising her body to beg for more.

The heat from his hand and her clothing provided friction as her body climbed higher and higher. Her heartbeat quickened flooding her senses with pleasure and rising need. The cool evening air whispered across her damp chest as Joseph's mouth lifted away from her. She forced her eyes open and tried to form a question with her mouth, but the words wouldn't come.

His pace quickened as he whispered, "I want to watch you come undone."

Part of her wanted to insist he come on this glorious ride with her—the other knew her negotiating skills would be ineffective as long as he continued the maddening circles. Surrendering to the rising tide, she closed her eyes and blocked out everything else except for his actions stripping away any remaining layers of duty and protocol. Her need for completion ruled over everything else at the moment. His keen eyes watching her as the transformation took place probed deep into her psyche…Watching me receive pleasure – gives him pleasure. In that moment, she finally understood the power he'd referred to over the past several years. She had the power to give him pleasure by simply allowing herself to embrace her sexuality and enjoy it. She was a passionate woman who deserved to love and be loved in a very physical manner.

Clarisse squeezed her eyes together tightly as her mind released its hold on her body. A low moan of satisfaction purred from her lips. Her body arched as her hand covered his, holding it solid against her throbbing center. Breath entered and escaped her lungs as she hovered in a plane of bliss – there was nothing quite like this feeling in all the world. It defied explanation—defied words.

Joseph's eyes were fixed on her face as it morphed from pained pleasure to blissful contentment. "So very beautiful." He couldn't believe how amazing life his life had turned out. From the pain of losing Alexandra to the pleasure of sharing Clarisse's love, a journey making him the whole man he was today.

"Mmm, penny for your thoughts." Clarisse's husky voice cut into his musings.

Lying down next to her, he pulled her into his arms and held her close. "My thoughts were only of you and what a lucky man I am."

Her lips found his as she held him close, "It is I who am the lucky one. Thank you for such a beautiful gift."

Joseph smiled against her mouth, "I'm sure you'll find a way to return the favor. I heard there was rain in the forecast."

Residual pleasure tickled at her nerves heating her blood and strengthening her desire. Making love to Joseph in the rain…there was little else in the world that captivated her attention more than such a scenario. "Are you able to ride?"

He laughed and stopped himself from asking if she would ride him in order to relieve his current state of discomfort. He loved her too much to use the hard ground as their bed. The moment they made it back to their room, however… "By the time you're clothing is back in order and I've seen to the horses, I should be fine. The moment we enter our room and the door closes…"

Clarisse's eyes darkened to match the night sky, "I am yours." Another rush of heat transferred straight to the center of her core at the thought of Joseph taking her against a wall. The descending sun chilled the temperature and Joseph's body heat leaving hers served to cool her ardor slightly. A wonderful man in her bed tonight and the fairy tale wedding of her dreams in little more than another twenty-four hours. She smiled, life was good.

^^C/J^^

The next day…

"Oh Vanessa, it's beautiful." Clarisse admired the vivid red dress overlaid with matching red lace. The neck was higher than she was accustomed to in order to accommodate the lace bodice concealing and revealing her ample cleavage all at the same time. The dress had been tailored to fit her frame perfectly.

"The lace is Genovian, spoils from a bet I won with you as I recall."

Clarisse twirled and took in the effect in the full length mirrors surrounding Vanessa's dressing room. "I'm not sure how well I'll be able to dance in this though. Not a lot of room for movement and no slit."

Vanessa held up a white satin gown that was much shorter and much more revealing. "This is for the private reception."

The older woman's eyes widened. "How private?"

"Party of four."

"I don't follow."

"After the wedding ceremony, everyone will be invited to share in the customary feast. After that, the bride and groom will attend a private reception given by your hosts and then, finally, you will be escorted to the location of your wedding night celebration." She winked. "That, of course, will be a celebration for just the two of you, accompanied by the most beautiful sunset Tunisia has to offer."

Clarisse blushed, "I don't know what to say…"

"Say yes to the dress, my friend and we'll move on to the next step for a traditional Tunisian wedding."

Clarisse glanced at herself in the mirror again. The dress looked beautiful and though not at all traditional in Genvoia, it honored Tunisian tradition for a subsequent marriage. She'd worn white to her first wedding and to her second, a dress that, in retrospect, was…well, not her usual splendid attire. Her thought had been to ensure all eyes were on Mia that day, but as it turned out to be her wedding day instead, she wished she'd chosen better. No, this dress would be perfect and she could already envision the blue of Joseph's eyes darkening as he drank in her appearance. "Yes."

Vanessa clapped her hands. "Yes! I'm so glad you picked this one. It was my favorite."

"So what's next?"

The younger woman pulled her bottom lip between her teeth. She wasn't sure if her more traditional friend would go along with the next part. "Let me show you." She stepped into the other room and escorted another woman in.

Clarisse viewed the woman with interest. She appeared to be close to her age, at least within five or so years and was wearing a white silk robe. "Hello." She smiled at the woman.

The woman nodded and allowed Vanessa to untie the sash of her robe and slip the material off her shoulders. Clarisse gasped at the sight before her. The woman wore a simple white lace bra and underwear, but there were beautiful markings resembling lace and flowers on her arm and the back of her hand. Small hearts and flowers adorned her décolletage. She turned slowly to allow Clarisse to see the length of ivy and small roses curving along her spine. "What is this?"

"Traditional henna bridal tattoos. I had this one designed with you in mind."

"Henna?"

"An ink that can be used to place these beautiful designs on the skin derived from a plant."

"Are they permanent?"

Vanessa smiled, "No, they will fade over time and eventually disappear."

Clarisse moved closer and reached her hand out. "May I?"

The woman nodded. Clarisse slid her fingers over the intricate design on her arm. "Remarkable."

She stepped back and contemplated Joseph's reaction if he were to see these markings on her skin. Could she step outside of herself enough to take such a bold step? Remember how much pleasure he'd given her over the years and how pleased she knew he'd be when he saw this…she couldn't deny either of them the opportunity. "Yes, I think I'd like to do this."

Vanessa moved forward and hugged her, whispering. "You won't regret it my friend. He is going to be speechless when he sees your alabaster skin marked with such a beautiful design. We'll keep it simple and elegant." She stepped away and turned to the other woman. "Thank you, Maria. We'll see you in less than an hour if you'd like to prepare."

Maria nodded and smiled, secretly pleased the Dowager Queen approved. "Yes, ma'am. I look forward to creating a masterpiece on such a beautiful canvas."

A moment later, she was gone. Clarisse turned wide-eyed to Vanessa, "She's the artist? Who did the work on her then?"

Vanessa blushed. "Well, she did everything on the front – she's that gifted. I did the work on her back."

"You?"

"Yes, she's been teaching me for years now. I'm so glad you approved my design."

"You never cease to surprise me." Clarisse smiled and turned her back to Vanessa to assist with the zipper.

"Well you're agreeing to the tattoo surprised me, so we're even." She unzipped the dress and helped Clarisse out before hanging it carefully back in the closet and handing her a robe. "Now, we'll have tea and sandwiches and then it's off to see Maria. You mustn't let Joseph see the ones on your chest and back – those you'll want to be a surprise for tomorrow."

Clarisse frowned—that would be a difficult task as Joseph's amorous advances had been hard to resist. She was on her honeymoon after all. "I'll try…"

Vanessa grinned. "I'll make sure the Sheik wears him out this evening so he's too tired and I will remind him that it is bad luck for the groom to make advances on the bride the night before their wedding."

Clarisse laughed. "I think you mean it's bad luck for the groom to see the bride the day of the wedding."

She shrugged. "I like to change things to fit my needs. So for the next twenty-four hours, I'll let Joseph know your body is off-limits."

"Good luck with that!"

^^C/J^^

Twenty-four hours later

"Pierre, it's so good to see you!" Clarisse hastened to greet Pierre as entered the foyer.

"Mammon, so good to see you as well. You look simply radiant!" Smiling, he pulled her into a fierce hug. "I'm honored to have been invited to witness such a special moment in your life."

Clarisse smiled at her son, "I'm so glad you could be here as well."

His hand cupped her cheek as his expression grew serious. "I thank the good Lord in heaven you have found the happiness you deserve. You've put Genovia and her happiness before yours for so long, I began to worry you might forget the duty you have to yourself."

Joseph's arms surrounded both of them, pulling them into a hug. "I would not have been able to live with myself if I had not convinced her of such a duty."

Pierre returned Joseph's hug, "Thank you. You have always been so very good for her."

"Yes, he has." A new, deeper voice added.

Clarisse turned toward the sound, "Dr. Weston, Vivian, thank you both for coming on such short notice."

"I wouldn't have missed this for the world." Doc leaned in and kissed Clarisse on each cheek with the traditional Genovian greeting.

"Yes, thank you, Your Majesty for the invitation." Vivian added.

Clarisse smiled, "Don't let him work too hard, Vivian. He needs to find a little happiness in something besides his work."

He laughed, "Look who's talking!"

"I'm retired and newly married, who has time for work these days?" Clarisse winked.

"Gramma, come on, you're going to be late! Charlotte and I are waiting!" Mia's voice called from the hallway.

Vanessa appeared at that exact moment, "Welcome everyone. Jonathan will show you to your rooms to allow you time to rest and prepare for this afternoon's events. Clarisse, my dear, we really must get you ready."

Clarisse hugged Pierre one final time, "I suppose as I am no longer Queen I can't use the never late rationale so please excuse me while I get ready as well."

"You will always be queen in our hearts, Mother." Pierre whispered and followed with a wink. "But we'll keep that from Amelia."

Clarisse laughed, "Indeed we shall."

^^C/J^^

The Wedding

Joseph stood stiffly at the front of the room, his nerves twitching worse than his first day on the job at the palace. Why he felt so nervous, he wasn't sure. Clarisse was already his wife. There was no chance she would flee from the altar. Was there?

He shook his head, both to clear the negative thoughts and create some additional space in the high collard black tunic he was wearing. Truthfully, he felt a little ridiculous not wearing a suit, but the Sheik had assured him the looser fitting pants and tunic were traditional wedding garb. At least he'd been allowed to wear black, the only varying color being the deep red stripe on either side of the shirt.

The stringed instruments paused for a moment and the small gathering rose to their feet as Clarisse appeared in the door frame. His breath caught in his throat and robbed him of the ability to breathe – she was nothing short of breathtaking as she began the slow walk down the center aisle.

As her presence grew, he could see the additional details. The red dressed, trimmed in what he could only assume to be the finest of Genovian lace clung to her body, accenting every curve. In her hands, she held a single red rose, trimmed with tiny white flowers and red ribbon. The same tiny white flowers were weaved into her hair. Small jewels adorned the corners of her eyes making the blue of her eyes sparkle like the morning sun reflecting off the ocean.

"Hermosa," he whispered and smiled, extending his hand to assist her up the steps. His eyes widened at the delicate markings along her forearm and hand. Wanting to show her how much he loved what she'd done, he lifted her hand and held it to his lips.

Clarisse's body filled with an overwhelming sense of peace and happiness at Joseph's appreciation and love. She drew in a deep breath and exhaled slowly, savoring the perfection of this moment. "Gracias," she whispered in return.

The priest smiled and looked toward the couple. "A life of sharing and caring. A love of endless giving together. As the saying goes, marriages are made in heaven and we solemnize them here on earth. Today we honor the union of Clarisse and Joseph as they seek to share their love with each other and their closest family and friends. Let us start with a moment of prayer."

Charlotte reached over to clasp Scott's hand. They might not be able to openly express their love in Genovia, but here in Tunisia, the aura of love and freedom was in the air. Using her free hand, she wiped an errant tear as the couple exchanged their vows.

A few more minutes later, the Priest exclaimed. "You may now kiss your bride."

Joseph knew this time would be different. This kiss would be wedding-worthy. His hands slid up her arms to hold her face firmly in his grasp. Tilting her head, he poured every ounce of love he felt for the woman standing in front of him into the kiss. Warmth, generosity, passion, intensity all conveyed with lips moving across lips. Her hands slid up his back to hold him close…so easy to get lost.

"Whoop whoop – go Gramma!"

Mia's usual and now-expected outburst broke the kiss leaving them smiling. The Priest raised his hands above the couple and offered his final blessing. "May the Great Spirit bless you with the knowledge of your inner strength and wisdom. May you have the strength of eagle's wings and the faith and courage to fly to new heights and the wisdom of the universe to carry you there. Remember, we can only be what we give ourselves the power to be."

The priest looked to the small gathering, "And now I have the power and pleasure to present to you, for the second time, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Romero."

^^C/J^^

Vanessa had forbidden him from being in the room with Clarisse when she changed for the private reception. He'd argued, reminding her she was his bride not once, but twice now and he had every right to be with her when she changed. He sighed. He'd yet to win an argument with Vanessa and didn't expect that to change anytime soon. She was more determined than Clarisse. Or perhaps I have a tactical advantage with Clarisse…

They'd said their good-byes to their friends and family and then he'd been left standing in a large room, filled with candles and large pillows strategically positioned. In the center of the room was a dance floor. Vanessa had left him here and went to help Clarisse.

Tamar walked in and poured them both a measure of scotch. "Waiting for the woman you love is difficult, isn't it?"

"I've waited decades for her, I don't suppose a few more minutes will hurt." He took a long swig of the fiery beverage and smiled at the younger man. "Though I confess it feels interminable right now. Your wife has kept mine at an arm's length from me for the past twenty-four hours. This IS my honeymoon, you know."

Tamar smiled knowingly. "If there's one thing I've learned from my wife over the years, her methods may seem painful at first, but the reward for following her lead is always worth the wait." He gestured toward the door. "Your bride arrives."

For the second time that evening, Joseph's eyes widened when Clarisse entered the room. The red dress had been changed for an ivory gown that was held on her beautiful body by a single strap over her left shoulder. The neckline angled down and revealed so much more of her décolletage than he'd been able to see in the red dress. Then he saw it…

The same delicate pattern that adorned her forearms and the back of her hands was etched over the swell of her breasts. Sweet Lord in heaven, I want her in my bed now! Forgetting he had an audience, he closed the distance between them and let the tip of his fingers trace over the design. His eyes found hers, dark with passion, watching him with keen interest.

"You like the bridal tattoos?" Vanessa asked with a smile as she approached the couple and handed Clarisse a glass of wine.

"Tattoos?"

Clarisse clarified. "Henna, they will fade over time."

His finger traced a small heart resting at the start of her cleavage. "A small part of me will hate to see it go. The artistry is exceptional."

The pounding in Clarisse's heart increased each time Joseph touched her. Today had been a fairytale, but Vanessa had promised them a sunset and, with each passing minute, she feared the darkness would be upon Tunisia before she was in Joseph's arms again. "Vanessa designed them and Maria was the artist."

His fingers slid over her bare shoulder and down her arm. "She had an amazing canvas to work with."

Clarisse's voice sounded husky, even to her own ears. "Indeed."

Vanessa's voice filtered into their moment. "A toast and then the dance."

The four friends raised their glasses and the Sheik began, "To the duty that brought us together and the bonds of friendship that will ensure we remain together."

Glasses clinked. "Here, here."

Clarisse lifted her glass again, "I'd like to offer a toast of thanks to each of you for seeing past the Queen and embracing the woman behind the crown. For giving me a fairy-tale ending to the most amazing love story I could ever be a part of."

The glasses clinked again. "Here, here."

This time Tamar spoke. "And now, you must do Vanessa and I the honor of a dance before we release you to your wedding night."

"Of course, we would be honored to show our appreciation for this wonderful day." Clarisse smiled, anxious to be in Joseph's arms again.

Tamar reclined on the pillows, pulling Vanessa in his arms. "Then dance for us as we danced for you that night. Show us love played out on the dance floor."

The white of Clarisse's dress clearly displayed the blush covering her entire body. Before she could form a polite response, Joseph stepped closer to her and pulled her into his arms. His breath washed over her neck as he whispered in her ear. "Remember the power you have, my love. You are safe here. You are loved."

He kissed her neck, "Besides, this is our favorite kind of foreplay. Dance with me, my wife."

He was right. Now was the time—the moment. This was her fairytale and she the Queen in the story. Time to provide a demonstration of her power. She nodded at Joseph and turned toward the Sheik and Vanessa. "We would be honored."

Clarisse slipped her shoes off and placed them at the edge of the dance floor. Joseph took his place behind her and, this time, one hand rested on her waist, while the other angled across her chest and cupped her breast. His body responded as he felt the tip harden under his touch. This may be the longest three minutes of his life.

As the music began, the rest of the world-including their audience of two—faded away. Nothing and no one else existed for Clarisse except Joseph and the music. Her mind remembered the steps so her heart could focus on the way Joseph's body felt against hers. Pleasure mounted with each step, each sway, each sultry movement of his body in time with hers. For a moment, their gazes locked. The cerulean depths were fathomless and the darkest of blues with desire. Please, God, let the song be over soon!

With a few final turns, they returned to the original starting position. Joseph's palm could feel the strong beating of Clarisse's heart, the gentle rise and fall of her chest and the warmth of her breath against his shoulder. His lips found the gentle curve of her neck and rested there, her rapid pulse caressing his mouth as they waited for the music to fade.

Vanessa's soft voice filtered into their private world. "Come, let me show you to where you'll spend your wedding night."

Joseph reluctantly released his hold on Clarisse's body, but not her hand. Now that he had her, he wasn't letting her go. Vanessa kissed him on each cheek, "That was perfection. Thank you for letting us share the moment with you."

Clarisse ventured a glance at the Sheik, still reclined on the pillows. His eyes were following every move his wife made. She knew how he felt…watching someone else engage in that particular dance was…stimulating. She blushed remembering how she'd alleviated that pressure when she'd returned to her tent that night.

Tonight, however, there would be no fabric wall between her and her lover. Tonight, they would celebrate their union and know that this time their wedding was for all the right reasons and was perfect in every way possible. Tonight…they would start forever together.

She squeezed Joseph's hand tighter, she was never letting him go. Without another word, they made their way to the honeymoon suite.

Joseph had been so focused on Clarisse and their dance, he didn't even notice their surroundings. Clarisse's gasp brought him back to the present. "Merde, Vanessa, you've outdone yourself."

She blushed, "I wish I could take credit, but Tamar oversaw this detail. He really is a romantic at heart."

Joseph kissed Vanessa on the cheek, "Please give him my gratitude."

She nodded and a moment later, he was alone with his bride. "Shall we go inside?"

Clarisse nodded, unable to speak. They were on the roof top. A large tent was open in the front providing a view of a king-sized canopy bed, draped in red and gold sheer fabric. Soft candlelight provided ambient lighting, but the setting sun bathed the area in orange, red and gold. The white comforter was accented with a myriad of rose petals. She moved forward and picked up some of the petals and let them float back to the bed. "Oh Joseph…a bed of roses."

Joseph's desire would be contained no longer. The only thing remaining to complete this picturesque moment was Clarisse…on that bed…covered in rose petals…and nothing else. "My love, may I assist you with your dress?"

Remember the power… Clarisse turned slowly and faced Joseph. She reached up to the clasp over her left shoulder, holding the top of the dress in place. "You may assist by letting me do this for you."

His breath held as she turned back around and undid the clasp. The material dropped and he saw the final display of artwork on the canvas of her back. He stepped forward, once again tracing the delicate lines with his fingers. The ivy wove down her spine and the small roses and hearts painted her skin with light and bold strokes, a testament to the strength and beauty of the woman they adorned. "Thank you for doing this—such a beautiful gift you've given me."

The dress slid to the floor and Joseph's gaze remained focused as she lowered the scrap of white lace to the floor. When she turned around again, he could wait no longer. In a much less graceful display, he pulled the tunic over his head and pulled her body to his. Their lips clashed with fiery need. He needed to consume her…be one with her.

Hours—days—a lifetime of need crashed down on her soul. This was a culminating moment, utter perfection in the midst of an imperfect world. A world where she'd witnessed cruelty at the hands of her husband and grief at the hands of fate. But here, on top of the world in the country of Tunisia, she'd found perfection with Joseph. She wasn't going to let that moment pass by quickly. Pushing gently against his chest, she whispered. "Champagne?"

His thumb slid across her well-kissed lips. "As you wish, my love."

While Joseph poured the drink, Clarisse situated herself on the bed. Lounging on one arm, she watched as the sun slowly began its descent on the horizon. "Can you imagine it being any better than this, Joseph?"

He handed her a glass and drank in the sight of her body, surrounded by rose petals and candle light. The colors of the sunset played over her body in an enticing dance making his fingers itch to touch her. "I cannot."

After joining her on the bed, their glasses touched in toast. "To perfection."

"To the best twenty-four hours of my life," she added.

Joseph smiled and sipped some of the champagne. "I remember the night we toasted when we started on this journey."

Clarisse smiled. "I remember too. You made me feel so young that day, Joseph. You've been responsible for helping me find…well, me. I can never thank you enough."

His gaze swept over her body, "Being able to love you openly and intimately is more than enough thanks."

After a few more sips, the glasses were set aside as the need to touch would no longer be denied. Clarisse took the initiative and reacquainted herself with Joseph's body. The muscles trembling under her touch, the sharp inhale of his breath as she moved over a more sensitive area, the heat radiating from every fiber of his being.

His pleasure gave her pleasure. "I want to make love to you as we watch the sunset." She whispered against his lips.

Joseph's arousal spiraled even higher at her words. Taking her hand he moved them until she was on her knees in front of him, his arm around her waist holding her body to his. He grabbed a handful of petals and cupped her breast. "Do you feel the coolness of the petals against the heat of our bodies?"

"Mmmm…" her hands covered his and held them there. "Our love burns as brightly as the sun. No matter how dark the night, the sun never ceases to rise in the morning. That is how sure I am of my love for you." She turned and kissed him. "Take me, my love. Take me as the sun sets on this glorious day."

He rained kisses over her shoulders and back as one hand slid lower to comb through the damp curls eliciting a moan from his lover. "So ready for me…"

"Mmm, always."

Clarisse lowered her upper body until Joseph could move into position. Her eyes stayed focused on the sunset as the heat from Joseph's arousal pressed against her waiting entrance. He continued the gentle kisses on her back as his fingers caressed her silken folds, sending her higher and higher into the bright and brilliant sky.

Knowing her body was ready for him, he let his hands caress her back, tenderly following the ivy until it faded on her lower back. The markings were amplified by the beautiful colors filling the tent and their bed. Wanting to add his own fireworks to the light show, he moved slowly into her body. Inch by inch until they were one.

As the sun lowered, Joseph moved against Clarisse, the warmth of her body welcoming him home. Together…this was how it should be.

"The sunset…" she gasped as her pleasure mounted. "With me, Joseph…"

He looked away from her body long enough to watch the disappearing colors. He noticed her head was lifted as she watched too. Slow and steady was no longer enough. His fingers held her hips as he increased the rhythm as the outside light faded and the candlelight became more prevalent. The shadows danced across their bodies as a slight sheen of perspiration began to form.

"Oh god, Joseph…almost there…"

Higher and higher he drove them until finally…"Clarisse!"

"Joseph!"

The heavens exploded around them as they came undone in each other's arms. Clarisse collapsed to the bed with Joseph following close behind. Her limbs felt heavy and contentment covered her like a soft rain.

"He was right," Joseph murmured against her back.

"Who was right?"

"The Sheik. He told me trusting Vanessa's ways would result in a very pleasurable experience. I couldn't ask for anything better."

Clarisse rolled over and held Joseph close. "So not being able to make love to me last night or see me most of today was worth it?"

His head lowered to kiss the swell of her breast. "Absence makes the heart and apparently the body grow fonder."

She kissed the top of his head as her hands smoothed down his back. "There is only one thing that could make this night more perfect."

Joseph renewed his exploration of Clarisse's body. The sun had set and it was his turn to reacquaint himself again. "What would that be?"

Before she could even say the words, she heard it. "That's not possible."

He looked up, "What's not possible?"

"Not even he is that good."

"My love, what are you talking about?"

Her hand cupped his cheek and held his head still. "Listen."

A few moments later, he heard it. A soft, gentle rain falling all around them created a soft pitter-patter on the roof of the tent. Outside the tent, you could hear it hitting the ground. "Rain." He smiled.

"Rain."

"I think it's a sign." Joseph whispered.

"It's more than a sign," she added. "It's the perfect ending to the best twenty-four hours of my life."

Joseph reached for their champagne glasses and tapped his against hers. "Here's to a lifetime of twenty-four hour slices of heaven with you."

Clarisse smiled and finished off her champagne. Setting it aside once again, she pulled her husband—her lover—her friend onto her body and held him tight. "Joseph."

He kissed her tenderly on the forehead. "Yes, my love."

"Make love to me in the rain."

The End.