“Do I have to be here?” John whined, glancing around the room for a quick exit.

CJ groaned. “We agreed. It’ll be quicker if we do this together. Ah, here’s Rachelle now.” CJ rose and shook the young wedding planner’s hand. “I’m CJ.”

“Oh course you are.”

“And this is my fiance, John.”

“Mr. Vice President,” Rachelle greeted, blushing at his smile. “And who else do we have?”

John motioned with his head to the other man in the room, “My Chief of Staff, Tim. He’s here to help with security arrangements.”

“Okay.” Rachelle seated herself around the conference table and pulled out various files. “Firstly, who are the bridesmaids?”

“There aren’t any,” CJ said quietly. “We’re just going to have a couple of witnesses.”

“No, No, this we can’t have. It’s practically a state occasion. You need two, possibly four bridesmaids.”

John smirked at the look of frustration on CJ’s face.

“We have to fill the church,” Rachelle continued. “Have we settled on the National Cathedral?”

Tim coughed and nodded, “It seems the best option. Security will have good vantage points, it will hold any number of guests.”

“Excuse me,” John intervened. “We aren’t having a church wedding. CJ and I have agreed on the grounds of the Observatory.”

“No church wedding?” Rachelle cried. “But you must.”

“Sir. She’s right. You are Vice President, you need to be seen to be upholding your religious convictions. A big wedding will bring in great publicity.” Tim glanced at CJ and then concentrated back on the Vice President. “The Observatory is tandermount to throwing aside the church.”

CJ rolled her eyes in disbelief. “Uh, it’s a wedding, not a party fundraiser.”

Rachelle nodded. “Uh, let’s leave the location for a second. Have you found a designer for the gown yet?”

CJ nodded, “I’m going to wear a suit. Not sure about the color yet.”

“CJ?” Tim and Rachelle called at once. Tim waved his hand at Rachelle to continue.

“You are a first time bride. You should wear a long, flowing gown with inticate designs of purest white silk and a veil.“ She look wistful. “Such a beautiful bride. And the bridesmaids in pink.”

John settled back in his seat and watched CJ’s face turned green. She hated pink and as much as he liked her wearing long dresses, he couldn’t see her wearing anything like this woman was suggesting.

“Rachelle’s right about the gown, we need to keep everything as traditional as possible,” Tim offered. “The Vice President and his stunning bride on the front cover of every magazine.”

CJ looked at John for support but he shrugged. “I don’t know why you find it so funny, they’ll have you in top hat and tails next,” CJ snarked.

“What a wonderful idea,” Rachelle exclaimed, scribbling on her notepad. “Now what about the best man? You have a son I understand, and we need to fix up the father of the bride.”

CJ waved her hand in the air to get everyone’s attention. “Excuse me, can we backtrack a little here?”

“Your father is giving you away CJ?”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Wonderful. Now the cake. I’m thinking six tiers, with flowers cascading through them,” Rachelle continued.

John leaned over towards CJ and grinned, “And I thought Abbey was going to be a bad choice.”

CJ glared back at him and suddenly stood up. Stalking away from the table she began to pace frantically.

“You know what I can’t do this,” she groaned, her hands gesturing wildly in the air. “I just can’t.”

“CJ?” John asked concerned. “You don’t want to get married?”

CJ stopped pacing and stared at him. “Of course I want to marry you, it’s this I can’t do.”

“Oh?”

Rachelle looked put out and Tim looked nervous. He knew CJ’s reputation well enough to be wary when she was displeased.

“What don’t you like?” Rachelle asked, quietly.

John rose from his seat and crossed to stand before CJ at the first flash in her eyes.

“Honey, it’s okay.” He lightly rubbed her arms as he whispered to her. “You tell them exactly what you want and they’ll fix it, okay?”

“They won’t listen, it’s no good,” she snapped.

“Have you ever known anyone to argue with me? Do I not get what I want? I got you to agree to be my wife, didn’t I?” he grinned, gazing into her eyes.

CJ nodded, biting her lip.

“Right,” John announced firmly. “CJ is going to explain what she wants and we can work around that.”

Tim nodded, in deference to his boss.

Rachelle flicked over the page and gave a resigned sigh. “Location?”

CJ took her seat and smiled as John covered her hand with his own. “The grounds of the Observatory.”

“Maybe we could have a priest bless the service?” John suggested, glancing at CJ for approval. The sooner they did this the sooner he would be able to get back to work.

“And no bridesmaids or bestmen,” CJ instructed. “We’ll have two witnesses. I’m not wearing a meringue,” she said firmly.

“And the cake?” Rachelle asked warily.

“The White House is providing that and you can speak to their florists about arrangements,” John instructed, squeezing CJ’s hand tightly before she objected. “How about you sort out some menus, garden plans and a suggested formal guest list.”

“How many guests are we talking about?” Rachelle asked glancing first at Tim then at CJ.

“Fifty,” CJ muttered.

“Four hundred,” Tim said firmly.

John groaned and waited for the argument to start. And they hadn’t even gotten to the formal announcement.

May was a mad month.

Having waited a month to announce their engagement CJ and John hoped to have the details ironed out. After her initial meeting with the planner, CJ had given up on John and dragged Abbey along. Needless to say the arrangements were going much smoother and with Abbey’s frank personality, Rachelle was more than compliant.

Of course with the announcement came photographs. For two days straight CJ and John were ensconced at the Observatory. Between make up artists and hairdressers both were going crazy. When the White House photographer had finally finished with them, the media went into frenzy mode. Every national and international newspaper carried a picture of them on the lawn or in the Drawing Room. CJ’s ring became the best selling ring in the country from all the coverage it received.

CJ spent more time as the Vice President’s fiancee than Press Secretary, leaving Simon to handle the majority of her briefings. And it got so bad at one point her assistant hardly recognised her.

After the photographs came the interviews. Along with all the predictable questions about the wedding and children, came the surreal questions about horoscopes and desert islands.

Then of course came the cruncher.

In Style magazine wanted to do an exclusive four page spread on CJ. Her eyes rolled as John’s new media consultant sat at her desk and explained what they wanted.

“Why me?” CJ whined for the third time.

“Ma’am.”

The look CJ shot her was enough to stop her in her tracks.

“CJ, you are marrying the most eligible bachelor in the country. People want to know everything about you. Every time you wear a Donna Karan dress her boutique is swamped. If you think this is bad wait until you’re the First Lady.”

That brought forth more groans from CJ.

“The interview will take fifteen, twenty minutes tops. They can take a few photos in your favorite dresses. Georgio will style your hair.”

“I do actually have a job to do here,” CJ muttered, running her fingers threw her newly chopped hair. “I’m Press Secretary to the President.”

“Ah, about that,” Laura stammered. “When do you foresee resigning? That is to say maybe taking a leave of absence until after the wedding.”

CJ’s icy glare was enough to tell her she had overstepped the mark. “Is John taking a ‘Leave of Absence?’ ”

Laura shook her head.

“Then why an earth would I want to?” CJ snapped, turning her attention back to the door. “I have to brief.” She rose and headed for the door.

“CJ?” Laura called after her and CJ turned sharply. “In Style?”

“Tell them yes,” CJ snarled. “But I’m not wearing a swimsuit.”

*********************************************************

After the initial round of pictures and interviews, John managed to step back and concentrate on his job. The only problem seemed to be that women were throwing themselves at him. During his public appearances he seemed to be swamped with hordes of women, most chanting something at him.He had to ask his assistant what the song was they were chanting and blushed slightly at its meaning.

When he phoned CJ that night to tell her, she had found it quite funny, informing him that the other version was ‘Don’t marry her, fuck me.’ He increased his security just in case and continued to carry out his official duties.

His first real indication of how mad things were was when he switched on the Late Show one night and heard David Letterman had assigned a whole segment to him each night. He blushed and hoped to god CJ hadn’t seen it, when Letterman listed the top five names CJ called his erection in bed. He tuned in the following night and groaned when they listed the top five chat up lines he’d used to get CJ. It was lucky he missed the Friday night episode for a date with his fiance or he may never have gone out in public ever again.

Janine glanced at him strangely when he arrived for work on Monday morning but didn’t say a word. Tuesday she blushed at his entrance and avoided eye contact all day. When he arrived on Wednesday and she dived for Laura’s door he followed her. Janine slipped into Laura’s office and he stood in the doorway as Laura and Janine shifted through the post.

“What’s all this?” he asked, bemused by the piles of sacks.

Janine concentrated on her shoes, while Laura flushed pink.

“Well?”

“Mail, Sir. For you,” Laura stammered.

“Why have you got it, I thought we had a mail room for that?” he asked, stepping further in the room and gawking at the piles and stacks of envelopes around the room.

Janine gingerly opened an envelope and held up a thong.

John blushed and averted his gaze to the office window. “Uh? What?” he stammered.

“CJ’s been getting them too, Sir.” Laura fished around in her briefcase and pulled out a single sheet of paper. “Your website has been hosting a debate as to what you like to wear. Uh. Down below.”

“Oh good God,” John groaned. “So why the all the mail?”

“After the vote it suggested your ‘fans’ send you their favorite,” Janine offered, desperately trying to hide in a mail sack.

John rubbed his temples and turned towards the door. “Send them to a homeless shelter or something,” he called over his back.

Laura waited until he was out of sight and brought up ‘Hoyneshottiepants.com’s question of the week, “So what do you think, Boxers, briefs or a thong?”

The four months between John's proposal and the actual wedding seemed to fly by.

CJ met with Rachelle and Abbey once a week to discuss any problems that had occurred

and to finalize arrangements. The most stressful time proved to be early July, two weeks
before the wedding when there seemed to be rather a lot of people who hadn't RSVPed.

CJ sat in her office going over the list and hovered over three names, underlined and

typed in bold. Shouting for her assistant, CJ waved the page in the air.

"Get the frat boys in here now."

Carol glanced at the paper waving precariously close to the goldfish bowl and returned

to her office to make a few calls.

Sam arrived first, Josh trailing in behind him and Toby getting as far as the door before he stopped and hovered.

"Well?" she asked, her eyes darting between them. "Spanky? Pokey? Lemon?"

"Oh, god, what did we do?" Sam groaned, moving back towards the bookcase.

"It wasn't me," Josh whined, "I was on the Hill."

Toby raised an eyebrow and shuffled his feet.

"We'll get to why Josh is looking so guilty later," CJ announced, fixing him with a glare. "Firstly, what's happening on July 27th?"

Sam looked desperately at Toby, who was nervously tapping his crown.

Josh stared at her and shrugged defiantly.

CJ rose from her chair and moved across the room. Picking up a stray file on her desk

she hit Josh on the upside of his head. "The most memorable day of a woman's life."

"We're having sex?" Sam squeaked and yelped when Toby hit him on the arm. "Well that's what Ainsley said when . . . ."

Toby hit him again.

"The day when a woman wants to be surrounded by her best friends," CJ continued, swinging the file and watching as Josh cradled his head.

"CJ, you're gonna have to tell us," Toby growled, safely leaning flat against the doorframe.

"You forgot to RSVP," Carol called from the outer office. "Morons."

Toby turned to look out of the door and Carol grinned back at him.

"RSVP?"

CJ sighed and threw her hands in the air. "We sent you an invitation, you're suppose to let

us know whether you're coming."

Sam shook his head. "I'm coming with Ainsley. I thought you'd realize that."

Toby groaned and rubbed his beard. "I honestly thought Ginger had passed it on."

CJ smiled at both of them and turned back to Josh. "Joshua?"

Josh opened his mouth to speak and caught sight of Carol and Donna glaring at him from

the outer office. "I, uh, that is to say," he stammered.

"If you say you're not coming," CJ started, advancing on him. "I'll kill you, then I'll never speak to you again."

The stress of the wedding and leading a high profile relationship was taking its toll.

Toby glanced at Sam, who gulped and noted the conviction in CJ's eyes.

"He's coming," Toby muttered, his eyes boring into Josh. "Aren't you Josh?"

Josh took one last look around the room and nodded mutely. Between the look of contempt on Toby's face and the looks of disgust on the assistants' faces he didn't have the
heart to tell CJ he still hadn't gotten used to the idea of her and Hoynes. When he looked back at CJ she was tearing up and he inwardly groaned. "Of course I'm coming,
wouldn't miss it for the world," he lied.

CJ threw her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek. "Really? Thank you." She

released him and turned back to her desk. "John will be so pleased."

Toby growled something inaudible and shrugged. He knew John wanted them there like a hole in the head.

******************************************

Two weeks later and the West Wing was unusually quiet, all except for the noise coming from the Mural Room.

The music wafted through the air as soft strains of jazzy songs could be heard over giggling.

"When is Carol supposed to bring CJ here?" Donna asked, wandering around the room with a bottle of champagne, filling everyone's flute to the rim. They were already a little bit, well rather a lot, tipsy and the guest of honor hadn't even arrived.

"She's got a few more minutes until my perfectly planned evening falls off schedule. Something to do with a reporter." Abbey's hands moved quickly through the air to

accentuate her words. "Besides, we've still not finished our first bottle of champagne."

"This is our third," Mallory stated solemnly. "I think you should be cut off ...." As Mallory finished her words, Carol and CJ could be heard coming down the hallway.

"CJ, just come on. We're gonna get dinner, I promise, but first I need to pick up that file I forgot."

That had been Carol's plan "to forget" something in the Mural Room from earlier in the day and drag CJ with her to pick it up before they were supposed to head out for a
girls' night.

Moments later, Carol opened the door and dragged CJ through with her. It took a second

for CJ to realize what was happening before her hand flew to her mouth.

"Oh my God! Guys, this is too amazing," CJ cried as her eyes glistened.

Glancing around the room she absorbed everything, amazed by just how much trouble they had gone to for her. The room was filled with colorful balloons, and trays of food, as well
as gift-wrapped packages and a table covered in strange looking ribbons.

All the women stood up and rushed to CJ to hug her and congratulate her (for the millionth time) on hooking America's most eligible bachelor. CJ stood in the midst of them all, more than taken back by her friends.

"So who do I have to thank? You know, for turning the Mural Room into a veritable sorority house," CJ laughed, as Abbey pulled her over to one of the long sofas, and then handed her
a champagne flute.

"Ah, that would be our beloved First Lady. She insisted," Carol announced, sitting down across from CJ and smiling.

All day Carol had been paranoid that something would come up and the Press Secretary would be required. As the day came to a close, she had been reluctant to answer the phone
even, and CJ had started to pick up on that.

"Is this why you told Toby that I had a doctor's appointment?" CJ asked, grinning at Carol, now knowing why her secretary had been acting so suspicious all day.

"Mrs. Bartlet would have killed me if I didn't get you here!" Carol laughed.

"I would like everyone's attention, if you don't mind." Abbey rose, her body swaying under the obvious influence of alcohol. "I am Abbey tonight. Not the First Lady, and not Dr. Bartlet. Just Abbey." She fell to the couch as if her legs had buckled beneath her, but her laughter comforted the group.

"How much have you had to drink?" CJ queried, raising her eyebrows and moving closer to Abbey.

"Not nearly enough my dear. Now, let's get some food!" Abbey stood again, this time more stable than she had been before.

As food was served and the women ate, CJ looked around the room.

All of her friends were present. Well, all of her female friends that she had spent the better part of five years arguing and laughing with - Ainsley, Mallory, Carol, Donna, Abbey, Margaret, Bonnie, Ginger and even Zoey.

"Okay CJ, you get to choose if you want gifts or a game first," Abbey winked mischievously and then gulped down the last of her drink.

"Oh God! Let's do a game, although I should be afraid, shouldn't I?" CJ glanced around at the group of thoroughly intoxicated women.

Ainsley was playing with her champagne flute, running her fingers around the stem, her humming uneven, but Carol somehow recognized the tune.

"You are not humming ‘Blame it on the Bossanova,’ are you?" Carol laughed. "Isn't that what you were singing when you . . .you know . . . were dancing around in a robe and the President walked in?"

"It will be a disgrace, as long as I live, to my family and friends." Ainsley's words were just as confused as they normally were, however tonight she sang them melodically. "I will, for all eternity, be ashamed of that."

"And trying to pee in Leo's closet?" Margaret added flatly.

"YOU TRIED TO PEE IN LEO'S CLOSET?" CJ was laughing hysterically, to the point where she placed her flute down on the table in front of her and rolled on to her side.

"I thought that it was, you know, a washroom." Ainsley glanced down indignantly, and filled her glass again.

"Oh, and the lack of a toilet, sink or other facilities didn't hint otherwise?" Abbey looked at the poor young girl turning crimson. "I guess I can understand why you work for the White
House Counsel. Your powers of deduction are unparalleled."

Carol moved in for the save, feeling partly responsible for this torture being inflicted on Ainsley. "To hell with games, I want to give you my gift. Does anyone object?"

Opening another bottle of champagne and allowing the cork to fly whimsically around the room, Abbey nodded her approval and Donna brought the gifts over.

"You should be warned," Donna began, "That Abbey announced a theme for this evening. In case you didn't notice the red and white balloons, we're celebrating passion . . . Don't ask
about the symbolism. You will come to regret it greatly, I assure you!"

CJ blushed as her mind wrapped around what kind of symbolism could be intended. "Ok, so what's the theme?"

"Naughty . . ." Abbey began huskily.

Mallory continued the thought. "And nice."

CJ couldn't look at either woman, knowing that the gifts hidden safely in the boxes and bags would be enough to make her blush instantly. "Well, this is . . . nerve wrecking," CJ only half joked.

"Ah, and you must wear this . . . the bows can be stuck on to it in the tradition of trailer parks everywhere!" Abbey laughed as she passed CJ an oversized bra. "You don't want to know who the owner is, just put it on over your sweater, and start stickin."

The first box she grabbed was wrapped in silver paper with a matching silver bow.

"I'm sorry CJ. Abbey did this random draw thing and I picked naughty. Don't fire me, ok?" Carol cringed as she thought of what [she'd had to buy her boss that was really personal.

"Don't answer that CJ. Half the fun is in the reaction. No more telling which one you drew!" Abbey adjusted herself in her seat, finishing yet another drink. Her hand reached around and strategically placed the first bow on the bra.

Opening the box to reveal a black teddy and a matching garter belt, CJ flushed red again as she pulled it out of the box. "My God . . . This thing is . . . what? Two threads held together
by a string?" Looking at the back, she noted a low back and a small heart. She'd never seen a negligee quite that . . . small.

"Does John have a preference . . . I mean for color that is?" Abbey asked the question without pause or consideration. "Seriously, inquiring minds want to know. Can't hold back
on us now dearest!"

"Um, we don't usually have time for . . . you know." CJ looked down at the other boxes, wondering if it was too soon to leave?

It's not that she wasn't having fun, but never in her wildest dreams did she expect all of her friends to be waiting on her every word . . . what kind of things turned her or John on.

"Here CJ, this is from me." Margaret passed a box and rested it on CJ's lap.

The bow was very quickly stuck to the bra as well, and CJ's hands worked their way over the paper.

"Ah, nice. Thank you Margaret." CJ removed a long red satin night gown and robe. This, she thinks, is very nice. Hardly naughty at all. Briefly she pondered what the odds were of
the rest being that simple and comfortable.

Mallory and Ainsley both got "nice" tickets in the raffle and went together to buy CJ a day at the local spa before the wedding. "To have things plucked, pulled and exfoliated,"
Ainsley managed to spit out in between sips of her drink.

Zoey got a nice ticket as well, which CJ found quite interesting. Even Abbey must not be able to think of Zoey as an adult yet, despite her generally broad views.

Zoey's gift was a CD set of romantic love songs, some long candles, an oil burner and some fragrances. "For your romantic nights," Zoey softly explained.

Of course this stream of "nice gifts" had left CJ somewhat concerned. That meant four naughty gifts consecutively. Her "bra" was already laden down with several bows, and
her face permanently a soft red.

Brace yourself, she thought.

Donna chose a red thong and halter bra, which, according to Donna, drives men wild. The bra is a push up, or at least appeared to be, and the thong . . .well, it didn't use much
material to make it.

Bonnie and Ginger clubbed together to buy her matching teddies and flavored body oil . . . As well as edible body paint and paint brushes. CJ blushed as she imagined what
those would be used for.

"Earth to CJ. Just my gift left . . . And we're running out of champagne . . . Can you believe we've gone through nine bottles already?" Abbey giggled, thrusting a large box into
CJ's lap, and watching as the younger woman unwrapped it.

The final bow is added to the bra (and Margaret sat snapping pictures like mad) as CJ removed the lid. Her jaw dropped and her eyes widened.

"Show the ladies . . ." Abbey nudged CJ's arm.

Pulling from the box a gift set of porn films, CJ passed them to Carol.

"I couldn't get you a real stripper, so I figured this would provide some entertainment," Abbey interjected as CJ continued to finger through the box.

Next out is a pair of edible panties, followed by the crotchless variety, and soon a massive vibrator. Her mouth still agape, CJ was unsure of how to approach this.

"Um, thank you Abbey," CJ said softly, and the women burst out in a fit of giggles. "I think I'm ready for that game now."

******************************************
Rachelle had been a godsend, suggesting the Marriott for the Rehearsal dinner, and arranging accommodation and transportation for all of CJ's family. CJ's family had all
checked in earlier that day, taking up the majority of the fifteenth floor. John's friends, that had flown in from Austin, occupied the rest of the floor.

John was still living in hope that his son would appear to stand up with him. His hope was misplaced. CJ had tried desperately to find Mark, but he remained backpacking around
Europe and refusing to contact his father.

On the first floor of the hotel the private dining room had been set aside for dinner for the wedding party and their families. The table was laid out for sixteen, intimate and with the intention of being relaxing after a day of rehearsals and last minute hiccups.

CJ stepped into the room with Toby at her side.

John had rolled his eyes a bit when she had suggested Toby stand up for her, after much debate and concessions on both sides, CJ had agreed to ask someone else.

Toby was only at the dinner because CJ felt in desperate need of support. Unbeknownst to her he had also arranged with John to make a small speech over dinner and thus avoid the embarrassment of standing up at the reception.

CJ spotted the wine bottles, breathing on the side table, and immediately poured herself a large glass. Glancing around nervously she gulped at the Merlot.

"It's going to be fine," Toby growled, pouring himself a large glass of wine and moving to stand before her.

"I hate these things. State dinners are so much easier. I'm not even sure I can eat anything, anyhow," CJ muttered.

Toby pulled her towards a chair and forced her to sit down. "What's really bothering you? And don't say it's this."

CJ bit the inside of her cheek and tapped her fingers along the glass. "Josh is pissed at me."

"What's new? Josh is always pissed at someone," Toby chortled, then seeing her glare, shrugged. "What's got up his nose?"

"He thought he'd be coming to this, and when I told him he wasn't, he yelled some."

"I'll kill him," Toby growled. "Then I'll let Donna get her hands on him."

"Toby."

Toby shook his head and massaged his temples. "You can't let him get to you. Not tonight, not when your mother's going to be asking intimate questions all night," Toby teased.

"So much for cheering me up, Pokey."

His response was to shrug.

CJ looked up to see her family striding into the room. "Mom, Dad!"

The next few minutes her mind was occupied as her family engulfed first her, then turned to greet Toby.

Toby grumbled and held himself stiffly as CJ's family hovered around him. For as long as he had known CJ, her family had treated him like a long lost son, and it made him more than a
little uncomfortable. However CJ's grin was almost enough to make it worth while.

The next to arrive was Carol, who seemed lost in the midst of CJ's family, until Toby pulled her to one side and poured her a full glass of wine.

"Where's the groom?" Carol asked, quietly.

"Delayed at the OEOB," Toby whispered. "Do you have Donna's cell number?"

Carol nodded. "What did Josh do this time?" she asked dryly.

"Threw a tantrum and indicated he wasn't going to come tomorrow," Toby hissed. "If I see him I'll kill him."

A quiet came over the room as the Vice President entered, an entourage of six in his wake.

"Good evening." He crossed to where CJ was standing and kissed her softly on the mouth, his eyes dancing with desire.

CJ cleared her throat, and looked away. "You remember everyone?"

John nodded and worked his way around the assembled group, his political skills maximized to the fullest as he went on the charm offensive.

Not that he needed to fake it. John was looking forward to being part of a strong family unit, even if CJ did describe them as cranky and freaky.

John then turned back and introduced his own group, touching each lightly on the arm as he spoke.

His brother and sister-in-law stepped forward and hugged CJ, while his Chief of Staff stood back and nodded his head in greeting. Tim's wife stood by his side, clutching his hand
tightly. The final two guests were his niece and nephew, who like Mark, were the spitting image of the senior Hoynes brother.

The greetings completed and silence filling the room, Toby coughed and guided everyone to their seats.

The entrees were served shortly after as John and Toby made sure everyone had a drink. Conversation followed as they discussed the wedding and the proposal. John sat at one end
of the table, staring as CJ picked at her food and gulped down her wine.

From their conversations all week, he knew she was nervous and had been practically starving herself. He hoped Toby's presence and the flowers he had ordered for the morning would make her realize there was nothing to be worried about.

As the waiters cleared the main course, Toby rose to his feet and cleared his throat. Everyone looked up at him expectantly.

"As master of ceremonies, I thought I should take it upon myself to make a small introductory speech." He paused and wetted his lips. "I've known Claudia Jean for more than fifteen years, and in that time we've become the best of friends. In fact I can truthfully say I love this woman. I love her warmth, her compassion, her humor and for just being her. And I know many have speculated about us, but she has truly found her soul mate in John." He stressed the Vice President's Christian name and glanced around to concentrate on CJ. "I wasn't sure at first but now I'm glad she has found someone who will truly love her and take care of her." He placed two hands over his heart and smiled briefly at her.

Carol, seated beside him, looked up in wonder at his sensitivity. Briefly she wished he was the Best Man, and then wondered if it was alright to sleep with the MC instead, or whether she had had enough wine. Deciding not she refilled her glass and topped Toby's up for good measure.

"I found a little something I'd like to read," Toby continued. "Your marriage should have within it, a secret and protected place, open to you alone. Imagine it to be a walled garden, entered by a door to which only you hold the key. Within this garden you will cease to be a mother, father, employee, homemaker or any other of the roles which you fulfil in daily life. Here you are yourselves - two people who love each other. Here you can concentrate on one another's needs. So take the other's hand and go back to your garden. The time you spend together is not wasted but invested. Invested in your future and the nurture of your love." Toby glanced up from his notes to glance at CJ and smiled as tears streamed down her face. "I would like you all to raise your glasses. To John and CJ."

The people gathered stood and followed suit, as the chinking of glasses filled the air.

He was surprised to have CJ circle the table and hug him, kissing him softly on the cheek.

John's brother rose shakily to his feet and grinned.

CJ went back to her seat and focused on John.

"Well, I'm not so eloquent," Matthew groaned. "As Best man I have the task of making a speech tomorrow so I don't want to say too much tonight. John's my big brother and as such I've always looked up to him but tonight is the first time I've ever envied him. You are one lucky man." He glanced down at his wife and gave her a heart stopping smile. "It's not very often my brother phones me but last May out of the blue he called me. He didn't mention CJ but I guessed there was someone and sure enough he began to call me regularly and her name cropped up regularly. That's when I realized this was a keeper." He paused and smiled at CJ.

"I would like to wish you ever happiness, and John, one piece of advice, "CJ knows best."

John laughed and nodded. It was something he had learned from day one. He settled back in his seat as CJ's father and brothers each took it in turns to say a few words.

While the coffee was being served he stood and made his way to stand behind CJ. She gazed up at him and grinned. For a few minutes everyone else disappeared as they only had eyes for each other, nights apart only adding to their desire. "I love you" he mouthed, before he straightened up.

"Well, I won't keep you long," he started, squeezing CJ's shoulder. "It's getting late and we have a long day tomorrow. I wanted to thank you all for your kind words. Your support
means a lot to both of us. Indulge me, please. Claudia, I want to thank you for agreeing to marry me and for supporting me in everything I do. Tomorrow you will make me the happiest
man alive, but everyday I'm the luckiest. A toast, to Claudia."

As everyone raised their glasses to CJ, Carol hiccupped and sobbed.

Toby glanced down at her and pulled his handkerchief from his pocket, handing it to him.

Carol gazed up him, her eyes glazed from the wine and her face needy.

On instinct Toby slid his hand into hers and there it remained for the rest of the evening.

Part Twelve

************************************************

The wedding party gathered together for the group photo, and Matthew couldn't resist reaching behind his brother to give him bunny ears for the camera, right as the shutter clicked.

"Okay, let's get one or two more to make sure they come out," the photographer growled, glaring at Matthew.

This time, Carol reached up behind CJ and did the bunny ears.

"ONE MORE TIME," the photographer said, and the third try was the charm.

Gathering together both families proved more difficult than expected. The nieces and nephews were too busy running around the grounds, jumping out on unsuspecting guests. CJ's mother had taken it upon herself to take a good nose around the Observatory.

CJ's patience was wearing thin as she handed her bouquet to Carol and stormed off into the garden. The frat boys looked up from where they were sipping champagne, took one look
at CJ's face and hid behind a tree.

CJ stalked around until she found Ron Butterfield and had a little chat with him. Five minutes later, everyone was gathered for the family photographs.

Little did she know that the kids had all decided to pull funny faces.

After a few individual shots and the customary crowd shot, Rachelle breezed up to the happy couple and announced that she thought a sexy couple pose would go down well.

CJ rolled her eyes and John coughed.

"Rachelle," John started, then stopped and looked at CJ for help.

"Not going to happen," CJ said simply. "I don't fancy appearing on the cover of National Enquirer next week."

Rachelle looked very put out and pouted. It was bad enough CJ had said no to her suggestion of ice sculptures and butter statutes without derailing her picture ideas too. "Well, can we at least have a photo with the President and his staff?" she grumbled.

CJ looked at John, not sure what he would say to such a photo of solidarity and mutual support.

"Yeah, I think we can do that," John said, smiling at his wife.

CJ sent the Secret Service off in search of the frat boys and the President and First Lady. And Leo, who seemed to have disappeared from the party.

The First Couple arrived a few seconds later with the girls in tow. Jed immediately pulled CJ into a hug and kissed her cheek. When he stepped back he shook John's hand warmly and they both smiled as a camera snapped in the distance. Abbey's greeting was less restrained as she kissed John firmly on the mouth, winking at CJ over his shoulder. CJ shrugged in response.

While they waited for the others to appear, CJ posed with the First Family, accepting that for the President at least, it was a family photo, and she was as much part of his family as any of his girls.

When finally the frat boys and Leo appeared, they were practically being dragged by the Secret Service. "What on..." CJ began, but stopped and shook her head. "Never mind,
I don't even want to know. Let's just take the pictures and move on, please -- I want to get something to eat." She smiled over at John and reached for his hand.

CJ felt a little out numbered as the six men positioned themselves around her, all looking remarkably handsome in their dark suits. This, she knew, was going to be a photo that would grace her office for years to come. They were all about to disappear again when CJ
stopped them.

"And the assistants," she said softly. "And Abbey, and the girls, and Charlie."

"CJ?"

"They're my family too," she added, almost inaudibly.

John nodded and waited as women appeared from all areas of the garden. The photo taken and the crowd dispersed, John led CJ into the house for a moment alone.

"Hey, Mrs. Hoynes," he said.

"Hello, Mr. Hoynes..." she replied, kissing him softly on the lips.

"We made it."

"And without going insane," she added with a grin.

"Well, I can't guarantee that, or that I'll get through the rest of the reception without going insane."

"I was thinking how easy it had been. My mother hasn't insulted anyone. The Frat boys haven't burnt anything and you've been positively chummy with the President," CJ said, grinning.

"There's still time," he muttered, wrapping a hand around her waist and pulling her back against him. "Where's your flowers?"

"Carol's taken them to the table." CJ snaked an arm around his neck. "So did you bring me here to actually talk or make out?"

"Which would you prefer?" John asked with a charming smile.

"You know which I'd prefer, but we're at a reception in our honor and we have to behave..." Her sentence was cut off by his lips seeking hers. "...Ourselves," she finally managed
to finish.

"Behaving is highly overrated."

"Ladies and Gentlemen. If you would please take your seats and wait the arrival of the Bride and Groom," came a voice from outside.

"I think that's us," CJ whispered, kissing John's nose. When she pulled away she scrunched her face up. "John did you finalize the seating plans?"

He shook his head in confusion. "No, was I meant to?"

"That means Abbey did."

Comprehension dawned on his face, the last time Abbey had organized anything they had ended up together at Camp David.

"Oh no," she breathed.

"What?"

"She's playing matchmaker again."

"Are you sure?" he asked, his forehead scrunching up a little.

"Maybe not, but..."

"You wouldn't put it past her." He grinned and released his hold on her waist. "Well, not to worry. At least we're safe this time. And it could be entertaining."

"Josh is in love with Donna, Donna loves Josh and Abbey knows it. Sam is dating Ainsley but Abbey likes Mal. And Leo, well Abbey desperately wants him fixed up," she groaned.

"And the bridesmaid's screwing Toby, so, it's a wedding," he offered, shrugging and trying to move her towards the door.

"Wait, we're not through here yet," CJ purred, pushing him back and kissing him tenderly. "They can wait a few minutes."

They kissed and groped for a couple of minutes, then John pulled away. "I'm already going back out there with this..." he said, gesturing at his pants. "So, let's stop for now."

The Marquee had been Rachelle's idea when it became clear that there wasn't a room big enough in the house for the sit down dinner. It had arrived on the back of a truck looking very much like a giant white tent and CJ'd had second thoughts. Now as they stepped out onto the terrace and walked around the outside of the building she had to admit she was impressed.

The two main entrances were decorated with a giant archway with trails of ivy and lily of the valley winding around the cast iron arch. Various small trees and rose bushes surrounded the rest of the tent. The topiary only added to the classical feel of the place.

Her hand firmly on John's arm CJ allowed him to lead her down the steps and across the lawn to the Marquee. They paused outside the curtain as Matthew announced them.

Matthew pulled back the curtain and John guided CJ inside as everyone stood and clapped. There wasn't much time to take in much as they wove their way through the twenty four tables to the head table.

Had they had the time, CJ would have noted that the senior staffers were scattered across four different tables, each strategically sat next to a female. The assistants, bar Donna, were on one table near the back and the First Family were sitting together.

Each table had a theme, Abbey's idea, involving a state. Josh and Donna were on the Florida table, Sam on Washington, Leo on Massachusetts, Toby on New York and the First Family, of course, on New Hampshire.

John guided CJ to her seat and sat down beside her, holding her hand firmly under the table. CJ glanced at him and smiled and took the opportunity to glance around the room. Her smile
developed into a grin as she noticed Leo's frown.

The ceiling was perhaps the most beautiful part of the room with the flower garlands draped between the posts holding up the tent. Hundreds of carnations and gardenias linked together to give the impression of a botanical garden. Each table was laid with white china, crystal glass and lilac napkins to match Carol's dress. It was exactly as she had hoped. In the center of each table were the ornate flower displays, a cascading centerpiece of green foliage
and purple roses, tulips and lilies, at the center of which was a church candle.

The shuffling and movement finally stopped and CJ saw the President stand to give grace. The room hushed and heads bowed as he spoke softly and clearly. As he resumed his seat,
servants began to appear with the first of the five courses.

The menu had lead to much discussion between Rachelle and Abbey, leaving CJ to sit back and worry about more important things like her outfit and the honeymoon. Eventually Rachelle had given in, probably wondering why she was even needed to help, and agreed with Abbey. Over the space of an hour they would enjoy Fanned Seasonal Melon with a summer fruit compote, Smoked trout fillet dressed with a citrus and almond butter,
Sorbet, Roast rib of beef and a Dark chocolate truffle cake. All of which CJ imagined would leave the guests too full to enjoy the cold buffet that evening.

As the guests dined, soft music filled the air along with the constant banter. It was not really a surprise when waiters appeared bringing second and third bottles of wine to each table.
CJ glanced at John's glass and relaxed at the water. Briefly she looked at Leo and sighed as he sipped his own soft drink.

"Well, Claudia. I'm impressed," CJ's father whispered. "I wish you'd let me pay towards this."

CJ leaned in closer and shook her head. "Daddy. The government pays so much and John is taking care of the rest."

"Mr Cregg," John interjected, resting his arm behind CJ's back. "So much of this is for appearances, it would hardly be appropriate to expect you to cover it."

"Rachelle wanted a water fountain in the middle of the tent," CJ laughed. "I was more concerned about the press getting their hands on a picture of Josh falling in."

"What she actually means is, she was worried about falling in," John joked.

CJ turned to glare at him, but his lips got there first and he kissed her.

"I don't make a habit of falling into water," CJ whined and John smirked back in response. "Shut up and enjoy your meal," CJ whined.

"Yes, honey," John snarked.

As the desert plates were cleared away Matthew rose to his feet and tapped his glass with a spoon. "Ladies and Gentlemen, pray quiet for the bride's father." He sat back down in his seat as waiters filled champagne glasses and everyone sat to listen to the speeches.

As CJ's father toasted the happy couple, Matthew stood and gave a short but emotional speech. Finally John rose to his feet.

He looked around the room and folded his notes. "On behalf of my wife and I, I would like to thank you all for coming today. It's special for us to both have so many friends and family to share our special day. I would like to pass on my personal thanks to CJ's father for allowing me to marry his daughter. Well otherwise we wouldn't be here." He sipped his water before continuing.

"Matthew, thanks for being best man. And that leaves the very beautiful Carol, who looks stunning, doesn't she? We have a small gift for you, to say thank you for being part of this day." He passed down her present. "And that's well it."

CJ looked up at him, her eyebrow raised in something other than amusement.

"Ah, my wife feels there's something I've missed," John said teasingly. "I do have one more think to add. I would like to thank my Claudia for marrying me. She looks incredible today
and I'm very proud to be able to call her my wife."

He smiled down at her with a look she had in the past considered smarmy, but when it was directed at her it was anything but. "I ask you all to stand and toast my bride." He waited as everyone stood and then said, "To Claudia."

As everyone else rose to their feet, John helped CJ stand and guided her over to the small side table holding the cake. The five tiers stood two feet tall, with tiny handmade lilac sugar flowers scattered across the icing.

CJ lifted the knife and waved it precariously in front of John. Swallowing, he covered her hand with his and guided her to the bottom tier. As flashbulbs flashed around them they pushed the knife into the cake. Releasing the knife, John wrapped one arm around his wife and cupped her face with the other. Lowering his lips to hers, he kissed her hungrily on the mouth as the photographer got the one photo which would make his career.

Everyone moved back out onto the lawn as the caterers cleared the tables from dinner and transformed the room for the evening. CJ lost touch with her husband as she drifted between groups of guests, chatting with as many as possible. Eventually she found herself alone with Leo.

"Hey Leopold."

"CJ. Congratulations Mrs. Hoynes," he grinned, reaching up to kiss her cheek. "It's been a wonderful day."

"Yeah, Rachelle and Abbey did a wonderful job."

"That explains the honey trap," Leo growled, shaking his head at CJ's confusion. "Oh, come off of it. She fixes you up with the Vice President and at the wedding she seats me next to some woman, who's divorced and in need of a man."

"My aunt," CJ corrected.

Leo's face was a picture as he blinked noticeably. "Holy hell, I've just fooled around with your aunt," he muttered under his breath.

"I didn't catch that."

"Doesn't matter."

"Okay, well enjoy the Aunt, sorry evening," CJ smirked, walking towards Josh.

"How much wine did he have at dinner?" CJ asked no one in particular, speculating on the male bonding Josh was embarking on with her husband.

Donna grimaced and lowered her gaze. "Four glasses of wine."

CJ raised an eyebrow. "That explains why he has his arms around my husband. John, honey so glad you're getting on with my friends," she said, patting him on the shoulder.

Josh raised his head from John's shoulder and grinned. "Claudia Jean."

Launching himself, he let go of John and picked her up off the ground, spinning them both around.

"Sir, you might want to help her, "Donna suggested quietly. "Josh tends to drop things."

"Claudia Jean. My friend. Looking good."

"Put me down," CJ yelped, hitting upside the head.

"K." He released her waist and John stepped forward to grab her before she landed on the grass.

CJ smoothed down her dress and rolled her eyes. Turning to Donna she said firmly, "Keep away from him tonight."

Josh looked put out, his mouth twisting into a tiny pout. "But I love her."

John tried unsuccessfully to stifle his grin as CJ rolled her eyes and hit Josh hard on the arm. Donna opened her mouth and stood staring at Josh.

Josh blinked and glanced at Donna. "Did I just say that aloud?"

Donna nodded, silently.

"CJ," John whispered, pulling at her arm. "I think it's time we left them to it."

Staring first at Josh and then at Donna, CJ rubbed the bridge of her nose. "Just don't do anything that I'm going to have to fix," she stated, walking away.

"I think they make a cute couple," John commented, as they headed for the Marquee. "What?" he asked as CJ raised an eyebrow. "They love each other, and god knows by being
together they'll do the rest of the world a favor."

"You're a wicked man."

"And I'm all yours," he said, huskily.

"Not for another four hours at least," she corrected, glancing at her watch.

"Oh, boy, I can't wait."

They entered the room to find about half the guests milling around or at the bar. The rest were still outside enjoying the remains of a wonderful Summer evening. The band had
disappeared and a disco was now in full effect. Tables surrounded a dance floor and tiny lanterns hung around the room on posts, giving the room a hazy effect.

"Are you two ready?" Carol slurred, coming up behind them.

"For what?" CJ asked, extending an arm and straightening her assistant up.

"First Dance," Carol said.

CJ glanced at John and he nodded. "Sooner we do this the sooner we can slip away," he said, his eyes revealing to anyone nearby what he had in mind.

"I'll go tell the DJ."

Carol headed shakily across the dance floor to the DJ and CJ was almost relieved when she saw Toby step up behind her. That was until she saw his hand reach out and cup Carol's
ass.

CJ glared at John, who shrugged.

"This is a nightmare. First Leo and my aunt, Josh and Donna, and now those two," she groaned. "All it needs is Sam."

"At the bar with the republican and Leo's daughter," John offered, smirking. "Stop panicking, it's not as if the press are here."

"Who do you think is going to have to listen to them whine when it doesn't work out?" she snapped, giving Sam the fish eye.

"Well, we're be on honeymoon, so I guess they'll gonna have to figure it out."

CJ fixed him with a stare. "About the honeymoon, where are we going?"

John tapped his nose, "It's a secret."

"John!"

He shrugged his shoulders. "Well, you might as well know now. The Seychelles. Three weeks--deep sea fishing, scuba diving, and beaches."

"You're kidding?"

"Nope. You, me and a Service detail," he grinned at her practically jumping up and down beside him. "Of course we can always stay in the suite."

John had to take a step back as she threw her arms around his neck and kissed him hungrily.

"Excuse me, Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, if the bride would like to put the groom down it's time for the first dance," the DJ announced.

CJ pulled back and then kissed him again.

A crowd began to form around the dance floor as they continued to make out. Eventually she released him and smiled around the room before tugging him on to the dance floor.

"The first song is the bride's choice, and they've asked that we give them the floor. The second is the groom's and they invite you to join them."

John took one of CJ's hands and placed the other at the small of her back, holding her close to him as the music began to play. The strains of "I Will Love You" by Fisher filtered through the night air.