** Chapter I**

Standing at the foot of the stairs, Nikolas looked at his watch for what must have been the fifteenth time in the last five minutes. Gia was taking her sweet slow time getting ready, and if she wasn’t down in the next minute he was leaving without her. Thirty seconds later, he couldn't take it anymore. “Are you ever coming down?” he yelled up at her, his tone clearly showing his annoyance.

“I'm coming. Keep your pants on, Princey,” Gia yelled, just as annoyed. Geez, she was going to all this trouble to look beautiful for the guy, and he couldn't even appreciate it.

Two seconds later she appeared at the top of the stairs, “I'm here”, she said still slightly annoyed. Nikolas was speechless, he couldn't stop staring at her. “You know, winged creatures have a tendency to fly into mouths that are open. What's the matter, cat got your tongue?”

 Swallowing in hard, Nikolas whispered “That's some dress”. “Is that good or bad?” she questioned. “Definitely good” responded Nikolas “you look amazing. It was definitely worth the wait”

 Smirking slightly, Gia brushed past him, heading for the door. “Yeah well you remember you said that next time you decide to rush me.” With that, she swept out of the door, leaving a slightly stunned Nikolas to follow her.
 

**Chapter II**
 

 Nikolas sneak a glance at her for what must have been the hundredth time since they got into the car. G-d, she was beautiful. The blue and white lace dress she was wearing had straps that were practically non-existent, and side slits that left both her legs bare all the way past mid thigh. She was seating back the Jaguar's leather seat, her long long legs stretched out in front of her as far as the car would allow, the picture of relaxation. But he knew she was just dying to know where they going. She proved him right two seconds later when she suddenly turned around in her seat, “Are you going to tell me where we're going?”

“It's a surprise, Gia,” replied Nikolas, barely taking his eyes of the road. “Which means, you're not allowed to know about it in advance.”

Gia seemed to give that much consideration, before she decided to switch tactics. Leaning over to his side of the car, she placed her hands strategically on his lap. Placing her lips right against his ear, she brought her voice down to a low seductive purr “You mean, I cant persuade you to tell me now?”
 When he finally responded, there was no denying the amusement in Nikolas’ voice, “Unless you want us to end up in a ditch somewhere…I don't suggest you try.” Instead of answering, Gia scowled and went back to her seat in a huff. “Don't sulk. You’ll love it, I promise.” Nikolas said, placing a hand lightly on her knee. “I don't sulk”, Gia said indignantly. “Whatever you say, Sparky.”

They rode for a little while in silence. Nikolas was beginning to think she had fallen asleep, so it was a surprise when she spoke up. “Just so you know, I love it already.” “What?” questioned Nikolas. “The surprise! I was just saying that no matter what it is, I know I’m going to love it.”

After two seconds of completely silence, “So are you going to tell me now?” Nikolas knew here too well to be surprised by the sudden change “You don't give up, do you?”  “You should know the answer to that by now.” “I’m not telling.” “Fine, I can wait.” By then Nikolas was exasperated, “Then do that.”

** Chapter III**
 

After what seemed to be hours of driving to Gia, but actually on thirty minutes, Nikolas finally stopped in front of an old three story house. While Gia took the time to observer her surroundings, Nikolas had already gotten out and came around to open her door for her.

“Where are we?” she asked, taking Nikolas’s offered hand. Nikolas tucked her hand into his. “Outside of Port Charles.”

“This is a nice house”, Gia said looking up at the imposing structure. “Not really my taste but very nice.”
 Instead of answering, Nikolas just took her hand in his and started leading her up to the house. “Close your eyes,” he instructed before opening the door. Instead of questioning him, Gia decided that for once, she’ll do what he says and closed her eyes. “No peeking”. “I’m not”

Once they stepped into the place, it was up to Nikolas to keep her from bumping into anything. Once they reached his destination,

“Open your eyes”, he said softly.

When she opened her eyes, the first thing Gia noticed was that the place had no walls. “Where are the walls?” Looking somewhat confused and a little put off, Nikolas responded “The owner didn’t like them.”
 With a slight laugh Gia took spin where she was standing. Taking in the entire room in one sweep. “Nikolas, this place is amazing. What is this place?”

“It's a restaurant.” Gia looked at him in shocked “You bought me a restaurant?” “Well for the night, yeah. If you want to keep it though –“

“That's ok,” Gia quickly cut in, taking one more look around the place. It was beautiful. Near the door was a little check in area that probably belonged to the maitre’d.  Aside from that, the place was completely devoid of furniture, except for a table set for two in the center of the room. The lighting in the room was soft, and romantic. She could smell the slight vanilla scents wafting up from the candles. The room was completely decorated in soft silver and light blue. Near the back of the room was a door she assumed hid the kitchen. Before she could say anything, Nikolas had already led her to the table, pulling out her chair for her. Taking his own seat, it wasn’t a second later until a tuxedoed waiter came out to place a wine cooler with a bottle of wine and two wine glasses in front of them. Without saying a word, he disappeared to another corner of the room. Raising his eyebrows at Gia, Nikolas raised the bottle of wine as if it was a prize. Gia gave him a look of mild amusement, “Why not?” After taking a sip of the wine, and taking one more look around she asked, “What's for dinner?”

Nikolas smiled “Something good.” Gia looked just a little unsure. “Will you just trust me. So far all of my surprises have been good, right?” Gia schooled her face to look properly offended. “I trust you.” Instead of answering, Nikolas rose out of his seat and went to stand beside. “Care to dance?” It took Gia a second to realize that there was, indeed, music playing. Getting up, she allowed him to lead her unto the dance floor. Once he pulled her into his arms, she knew that no matter what happens, everything was going to be perfect.

** Chapter IV**
 

Gia was on cloud nine. It had been three days since her date with Nikolas and she had yet to come down from her high.  Right now, it was three o’clock Monday afternoon, and she was meeting Carly Corinthos for a late lunch. She had just finished a photo shoot for the new Deception ad, and it was time for some food. She hadn’t told Carly yet, but they were also meeting Lucky Spencer, Liz Webber, Emily Quartermaine and Nikolas. It was going to piss Carly to no end, but Gia knew she won’t stay mad for too long. Reaching the door of Kelly’s, Gia took a second to look inside and find out who was already there, only to discover, to her dismay, only Liz and Emily were already there. Damn, she was going to have to make small talk with them until everyone else came in. if anything had the potential to ruin Gia’s good mood, it is going to be that. Oh well, cant turn back now. Squaring her shoulders, Gia decides What the hell? and determinedly entered Kelly’s.

 Liz was behind the counter, leaning over and was apparently having a very important conversation with Emily, who was sitting on a stool talking a mile a minute. When Gia actually thought of what she was going to tell them  it wasn’t to hard for her to smile sincerely. Without giving it a second thought, she nonchalantly strutted up to counter, stopping once she was exactly beside Emily. “Hi!” Her tone was disgustingly cheery. “So glad you guys decided to meet with me.”

“Yeah. We’re just thrilled to be here.” Liz’s voice however, said something entirely different.

“Can I ask why you asked to meet us here?” Emily wasn’t in the mood  to trade barely veiled insults, or insults of any kind, with Gia. She just wanted to know what was going on so she could leave.

“You can, but I can't tell you now” Gia was bursting with excitement by this point, which only served to make Emily more curious and Elizabeth more annoyed.

“Gia!” Carly Corinthos’ excited voice floated up to them, cutting off any further conversation. Gia whirled around to face the door. “Hey Carly, great. You’re here. Now we just have to wait for –“ before she could finish what she was saying, Nikolas and Lucky entered Kelly’s. “On second thought, I guess we don't have to wait.” Everybody watched as Nikolas, who was talking with Lucky, broke into a smile when he saw Gia. Ignoring everything and everyone, Gia got up from her sit and slowly approached him. Once she reached him, she stopped. They stood there and stare at each other for a full five seconds, before Nikolas finally pulled her into his arms, kissing her thoroughly. It was Carly who finally broke the silence. “Ahem. Hate to break this little…love fest but I have work to do. Can you guys leave this for later, so I can find out why the hell I’m here?”

Gia slowly pulled away from Nikolas. Without taking her eyes off him, she lightly scolds Carly “So impatient, Carly.” She turned her attention back to Nikolas. “Do you want to do the honors?” Nikolas smiled. “No, go ahead. I know how much you want to do this.”

 Gia gave him a brilliant smile that clearly said You know me so well. “Well, in that case” she turned in Nikolas’ arms, lucking eyes with Emily and Elizabeth “How would you guys feel about being my bridesmaids?”

 Elizabeth was the first to break the silence. “You’re getting married?” she asked incredulously.
 Gia looked at her as if she was stupid. “Well, seeing as how I need bridesmaids…yes I am.” Turning to Carly. “And Carly, I wanted to know if you’ll be my maid of honor.”

Gia’s words having finally penetrated her, Carly was the first to go over and offer her congratulations. “I’d be honored,” she responded as she hugged her friend. She then shifted her gaze to Nikolas, and shrugging, gave him a hug as well. “Congratulations, Niki-boy." She slowly stepped away from them, taking a slow look around the room. Lucky looked surprised, Emily looked dazed, and Liz looked downright horrified. Carly offered Gia a happy smile. “Well, as much as I’d love to stick around for the celebration, I have to get back to work. Gia, call me later okay?” with that said, she turned on her heels and exited Kelley’s.

After saying goodbye to Carly, Gia turned her attention back to the other occupants of Kelley’s. “What, no congratulations?”

Lucky went first to his brother. “Congratulations, bro.” He patted his brother on the back. “I’m happy for you.” And, almost as an after thought, he turned to Gia and added, “You too Gia.”

Gia graciously smiled at him. “Why thank you, Lucky. We really appreciate that.”

“Yeah, thanks Lucky,” stated Nikolas. He turned his attention to Emily and Liz. “What do you guys think?“

“We’re, huh, happy…for you,” said Emily, still dazed. “And Gia, we would be honored to be your bridesmaids.”

“We would?” questioned a less than happy Liz.

“Yes, we would.” Emily’s tone and facial expression clearly stated Donut argue with me on this. The smile on Liz’s face was tight, and didn’t reach anywhere near her eyes. “I guess that’s a yes. You have yourselves two bridesmaids Gia.”

Gia was thrilled. She knew how much this was killing Liz and Emily, but she didn’t care. Her wedding day was going to be the most amazing day of her and Nik’s lives, and if putting up with Liz and Emily meant making Nikolas happy than so be it. “Excellent. This is great.” she turned her attention back to Nikolas, “Now all we have to do is tell our parents. I can only hope they'll be as agreeable as these guys. Now we have to go.” She grabbed Nikolas' hand, at the same time looking at Emily and Liz. “I'll call you guys later in the week and we can start discussing wedding plans.”

Before anyone could say anything, she was already dragging Nikolas across the room. “Bye Lucky” she threw over her shoulder. Nikolas turned around and gave everyone a small wave. “See you guys later.”

** Chapter V**

 They were sitting at the kitchen table in the cottage, going over strategy plans for telling their parents. “I think I should tell your parents and you should tell mine.” Gia finally stated. “Why?” questioned Nikolas, puzzled. “Because,” said Gia, “my mom is less likely to blow up at you.”

“And your brother will probably decide to throw me out of the highest window…I don't think so.” responded Nikolas. “How about we just bring them together and tell them at the same time?”

Gia took a minute to ponder that suggestion. “It could get kinda messy.” “Yeah,” said Nikolas. “But in the long run it’s a lot less painful.”

“Ok,” Gia agreed. “Now all we have to do is get them together.” “The Grill,” Nikolas immediately suggested. Gia smiled, “a public place. That's very good. Not much damage can be done in a public place.” Nikolas gave her a look as if to say  Are you kidding me? “My family is very good at causing damage discretely.”  “Thank you for that lovely reassurance.” Gia’s tone was dry and the look on her face not too pleased. “Speaking of your family, your grandmother’s not invited is she?”

"Not unless it’s as the designated donkey for a rousing game of pin the tail…on second thought, not even then,” Nikolas deadpanned. Gia shrugged. “I had to ask.”
 

Three days later found them at the PC Grill, with their families, Stefan, Laura, Florence, Taggert, and Alexis. “Family dinners bringing both families together cannot be good,” muttered Taggert. “Please G-d don't let this be what I think it is.”  “You know Marcus,” Gia spoke up, having heard her brother. “They say the first sign of insanity is talking to yourself. Should we be worried? Has the job been getting to you?”

“Gia” Florence quietly chided. “What?” asked Gia, her eyes wide and innocent.

Stefan finally spoke up. “I was under the impression that we were brought here because you had something to tell us.”

Nikolas beamed. “As a matter of fact, we do.” He took Gia’s hand and they stood up to face the table. “Gia and I are getting married.”

“I knew I should have killed him the first time I found out they were together,” was Taggert’s not so low muttered reply.

“Marcus,” Gia whined sweetly. “You’re my only brother…but I will throw u out of a window if I have to.” She then turned her attention to her mom “And I swear mom, if you ask the question I will completely freeze you out of all wedding related matters.”

“What question?” it was Florence’s turn to look innocent.

“You know the question,” Gia said in a don’t-try-to- play-me-tone. “I can see it in your eyes.”

“Well can I offer my congratulations?” Alexis finally decided to join the conversation.

“Thank you, Alexis,” Nikolas smiled. “We appreciate that.”

“Me too,” Laura said, slightly breathless. “If you're happy, than I’m happy…you are happy right?”

Nikolas laughed, “Yes I am. Very much.” “Thank you Mrs. Spencer,” Gia also added.

Nikolas turned to look at his uncle. “You know that I do not accept this?” questioned Stefan, calmly.

“I didn’t expect that you would,” Nikolas returned just as calm. “But there is nothing you can do about it. It is my life, and my decision.”

“So you’ve been telling me for some time now.” Stefan took a look his dinner companions. “If you all will excuse me, I believe it’s time I take my leave.” With that said, he pushed off from the table and left the restaurant.

Gia watched him leave, then towards the remaining members of the party. “Mom? Marcus?”

“I’ll let him live just a little while longer,” Taggert answered her unasked question. Gia smirked and rolled her eyes “You’re a prince.”

“There is nothing I can do about it, is there?” Florence finally asked. “No there isn’t,” Gia answered her tone final. “Well, in that case. Good luck.” Florence also rose from her chair. “Please excuse me, but I have an early day at the hospital tomorrow. Good night.”
 

Later on that evening, they were lying on opposite ends of a bathtub discussing how the dinner went. “All in all, it was better than I expected,” stated Nikolas.

“You realize,” Gia’s voice had just a hint of apprehension, “that the only person who is happy – I mean genuinely happy – for us is Carly. I mean, she’s the only person who has no misgivings about this. She’s just happy cause I’m her friend who found the love of her life. She doesn’t care about any of the other crap”

“It's a scary thought when the only person who’s truly in your corner is Carly,” Nikolas said. “Hey it could be worse,” Gia smiled, “it could be Helena on our side.”

“So” the smile on Nikolas’ face was positively wolfish, “you think I’m the love of your life huh?”

Gia feigned shock “You mean, I didn’t tell you that already?” She burst into laughter when Nikolas suddenly pulled her leg under the tub, pulling her to him.

 Chapter VI
 

 Before I start: thanks goes out to gyrlfrend for reminding that Gia did have a life before PC...I know what I said...but I honestly was not thinking of that.
 
 

Planning a wedding, Gia quickly realized two weeks later, could take a lot out of a person. Having Carly Corinthos as the maid of honor, coupled with Emily Q and Liz Webber as bridesmaids, was bringing her to the point of no return. The fact that Carly was an organizational wizard with an eye for details would have been great compensation, had they not been rivaled only by Carly’s Insult-Elizabeth Skills. Surprisingly, to Gia at least, Elizabeth was no slouch in the insult department. She’s been giving Carly as good as she got, but they still haven’t agreed on anything. Currently, they were busy disagreeing on the color for bridesmaid’s dresses.

“Sonny hates pink!” Carly vehemently protested.

“And I hate lavender!” Elizabeth retorted just as hotly.

They were currently at the park, sitting on a picnic blanket, the remains of their lunch around them discussing wedding stuff. The fact that they were actually on a picnic  together gave Gia hope that they might actually survive this wedding planning thing.

“How about red?” Emily decided to throw in her two cents.

Fast into the meeting, Gia had realized that when it came to Carly and Liz, Emily’s idea of breaking up their arguments was to suggest something they both would never agree to. By the looks on their faces, this was one of them.

“You have got to be kidding right?” Carly asked.

“Well, you two certainly weren’t deciding on anything.” Emily retorted. “Besides, this is Gia’s wedding.”

“We’re supposed to be helping.” Stated Elizabeth.

Emily smiled. “Trust me. You two together are about as helpful as Grandfather in the kitchen.”

“Thank you.” Gia said on a sigh. “I’m beginning to think I should have made you my maid of honor.”

“Hey!” Carly protested. “I’m your best friend.”

“Yeah, and you're giving a headache.”

“Don't you have some other friends coming in from Brooklyn?” Emily quickly intervened.

“Well, actually only one of them is from Brooklyn. The other one’s my roommate from my brief stint in Columbia.”

“How come you didn’t make one of them to be your made of honor instead?” Elizabeth asked, half-curious and half because she knew the question would annoy Carly.

“Cause Carly would have killed me had I not given her the job.”

Carly wrinkled her nose at Gia. “You think you're so cute huh?”

“Yes, I do. I’m beyond cute, honey. I’m downright gorgeous.” Gia stuck her tongue out at Carly.

“How’s things on the family front?” Emily decided to change the subject. “How’s your mom?”

“Mom’s mom, you know? She’s objected and she’s sticking to her objections. I really don't know why. Don't think she does either. Laura, on the other hand, swears that she’s happy for us and I believe her. Alexis hasn’t said much. Stefan’s not accepting…but he’s not fighting-“

“Yet,” Carly cut in.

Ignoring her, Gia continued. “-even Marcus is behaving. And we have not seen a single trace of psycho granny –“

This time it was Emily. “Knock on all available wood.”

“Oh, before I forget,” Carly said, “Sonny told me to tell you that all you have to do is say the word…and he’s send out his biggest and meanest to take out Granny dearest. Luke be damned.”

Everybody laughed. “I knew there a reason why I liked Sonny so much” Gia began

“Besides the fact that he’s hotter than hot, you mean?” Emily broke in.

Carly gave her a look that clearly said Don’t even go there. Gia laughed, “Yeah besides that. Sorry Car, it’s the truth. As much as I appreciate the offer…I’d like that honor myself.”

“Ladies,” Helena came out of nowhere. Gia laid her head in her hands. Emily and
Elizabeth looked at each other and sigh. “And speak of the devil.” Elizabeth muttered
 

Carly looked up at Helena and smirked. Than rising on her feet she stood facing Helena. “Don't you have a life?” By then, the remaining three girls had also risen and they were all facing Helena. Carly continued, “I mean seriously, you would think a grown woman would have better things to do than skulk around parks stalking people. It's not a very attractive habit Helena. People might start to think you're weird.”

“What do you want, Helena?” Gia’s voice was quiet steel.

Helena offered her a smile that made no effort to hide her displeasure. “I came to congratulate you on your…engagement”

Carly sighed, “OK, you know, let’s not play this. Say what you’ve really came to say and leave.” Her voice was cold and calm, her face expressionless.

“In other words,” Gia agreed, “Make your threats then bounce bonny but outta here.”

“Charming, as always.” Deciding to ignore Carly, Helena focused her entire attention on Gia. “I will not allow this union between you and Nikolas, young lady.”

“Funny,” Gia snorted. “I don't recall Nik and I asking your permission, old lady.”

“You’ll be wise not to take on this family.”

“She’s not taking on the family” stated Carly. “She’s taking on you. Nik and I are on her side. Stefan only has two choices, and you are not one of them. If you chose to mess with Gia, you will have to contend with Cassadines, Spencers, Corinthos and Campbels.

“Mark my words, I will not allow this.” Helena reiterated.

“You said that already.” Emily’s voice sounded bored.

“Learn a new phrase,” Elizabeth sneered.

“Now, go away or I’ll have Johnny forcibly remove you.” Carly told her.

As Helena was about to leave couldn’t resist adding “Oh, and don't bother showing up at the wedding. We’ll have a bucket of water waiting for you.”

(Author’s Note: I’ve been reading old GH transcript, which brings me to wonder: have the Cassidines ever actually seen the Wizard of Oz?)
Finaly. Yes, I’m still here. This is part 7. Thanks to all who read and responded to the last part. Melissa, I am so sorry. I swear I will try so much harder this time. And, thanks for the wedding help. I’m getting to it. Hopefully soon
p.s: wanna thank my best friend Cynthia, and my baby sister (literally) Janey for lending me their names to use in the story.
 
 

 Chapter VII
 

 It was one of those momments.  It was during times like these that any doubts Gia and Nikolas had about their future together just evaporated. Had they been on their own, neither one would have bothered to know what the inside of a kitchen looks like. But, it was one of the many things that they seemed to have fallen into once they came together. Even before they were actually together. It was a ritual to them. Four out of seven nights a week, Nikolas Cassadine and Gia Campbell could be found in their kitchen cooking dinner together. Not that either one of them actually knew how to cook, but they were learning.

 Gia had just finished setting the table and had stepped  back in order to admire her work, when Nikolas stepped out of the kitchen, carrying a bowl of salad.

 ”Sit.” Nikolas lightly commanded. “Dinner will be served in a few minutes.”

 But, instead of sitting down like ordered, Gia merely shifted her attention to Nikolas, silently watching him as he put the bowl down. Nikolas caught her eyes studying him.

“What?” he asked, smiling.

 Silently, she walked over to where he was standing, and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Nothing,” she responded. “I’m just happy to be with you that’s all.”

 Nikolas smiled. “Yeah?” Gia smiled back “Yeah.”

 ”Well, that’s good, you know,” Nikolas said, “cause you're the best thing that’s ever happened to me…and I won’t lose you.” His face and his tone became a little more serious, “Nothing is going to keep us apart…not your family, and definitely not mine.”

 Gia lightly stood on her toes to brush a kiss across his lips. “Speaking of your family –“

 Nikolas merely closed his eyes, and burying his face into her neck, he lost the battle to suppress a frustrated sigh. “I’m almost afraid to ask.”

 Gia’s tone was surprisingly light. “Don't be. It was only your grandmother. And seeing her was almost worth it to see Carly and Liz ripping into someone besides each other.”

 Nikolas looked up, interested. “Really? Is that a good thing or a bad thing?”

“Well, their dislike for Helena is something they have in common –“

Nikolas snorted, “Dislike for Helena is something the entire town has in common.”

”True,” Gia conceded. “It's just that, I cant help but expect cosmic disaster because they agree on something.”

“My grandmother is a cosmic disaster.”

“Point taken.” They stood there for a minute, just holding on to each other. Then “are we gonna eat anytime soon? I’m starving.”

“Food. Right. I’ll be right back.” With that said, Nikolas had turned back in the kitchen to gather their dinner.
 
 

It was ten minutes later, and they had finally settled to eat. “So, what’s the plan for tomorrow?” Nikolas asked, looking at Gia over the top of his wineglass.

Gia looked up at him. “Tomorrow? Well, Cynthia and Janey are driving in from the city, and I think they’ll be here sometime around one. Janey’s picking up Cynthia from Columbia, and while they’ve only met once, I think I can trust them alone together in a car. We, that means you and me…and Carly, have a meeting with the wedding planner at eleven. For your sake I hope you did not forget.”

Nikolas looked at her and with his most serious face he stated, “I have not forgotten.” But
Gia knew him too well. She snorted. “Yeah. Right.”

Nikolas gave her a wounded look. “I did not.” “Ok, I believe you.” Gia responded. “I’m also planning on seeing my mom as well. And, don't forget we have a family/wedding party dinner two days from now. That means our families and everyone who’s gonna be in the wedding – bridesmaids, groomsmen, and all that.”

“AJ, Sonny, and Carly in the same room. Oh, boy.” Nikolas groaned.”

“Hey, don't look at me. I’m not the guy who decided to surround himself with girls, and completely forgets that he might need guy friends one of these days.” Gia defended herself. “Anyway, I’m gonna need your help putting this together, so suck it up and deal.”

Nikolas shrugged. “I’m all yours” were the only words that came out of his mouth.

Gia smiled and winked at him. “And I love you for it.”
 

Chapter VIII
 

 It was exactly 10:59 the next morning, when Gia and Nikolas stepped into the elevator, on their way to the wedding planner’s office. He might not have been complaining out loud, but Gia knew a sulking man when she saw one…and Nikolas was definitely sulking.

 “You really gotta stop that?” Gia whispered fiercely as the elevator door closed on them.

 “Stop what?” Nikolas questioned back, all innocence.

“Stop sulking.”

 “I’m not sulking.”

 “Yes, you are.”

 “OK, maybe a little. I’m just not sure why I’m here, that’s all.” Nikolas conceded.

 “It's our wedding.”

 “I don't know the first thing about a wedding.”

 “Neither do I.  That's why we have a wedding planner, genius – and Carly.”
 That was the last thing Gia got to say, before the elevator doors opened on them. As they stepped out of the elevator, they were greeted by the sight of a beaming brunette sitting the receptionist desk who offered them a very cheery “Hello.”

 “Hi,” Gia answered, smiling. “I’m Gia Campbell, and this is my fiancé, Nikolas. We have an eleven o’clock with Ms. Winslow.”

 “Ok. Well, if you can have a seat I’ll let Ms. Winslow know that you're here.”
 After sitting and waiting for all of three minutes, the secretary came back out, followed by a tall striking woman who looked in her thirties. She smiled when she Gia and Nikolas stood together to greet her. “Nikolas Cassadine and Gia Campbell, am I correct?” At their nod, she continued, “I’m Grace Winslow. Call me Grace.”

 “It's nice to meet you, Grace,” Nikolas said, shaking her hand. “Call me Nikolas.”

 “Grace”, Gia barely nodded in her direction, before turning her attention to the elevator door. “My maid of honor was supposed to join us for this meeting,” Gia explained turning her attention back to Grace.

 The elevator dinged and the doors slid open, revealing a cheerful Carly and her favorite guard – Johnny. “Gia” Carly immediately went over, giving Gia a hug. She then turned her attention to Nikolas, “Nikky, how you doing?”
 Giving her a less than friendly look, Nikolas responded, “I don't know if I’ve told you this before – but don't call me Nikky.”

 Carly only smiled wider. “What ever you say” – she waited a while before adding –“Nikky.”

 Gia decided to step in, knowing if she let them, they just might decide to spend the rest of the day arguing. “Stop picking on my fiancé, Carly. We have a wedding to plan.”

 “Aye aye, captain.” Carly mock saluted her.

 “Well,” Grace spoke up for the first time since Carly’s entrance, “If everyone will step into my office we’ll get this meeting on the road.”

 “Grace” Carly’s attention focus, “didn’t notice you were here.”

 “Carly, wish I could say the same about you. Step into my office, please.” With that said, Grace turned on her heels, marching towards her office with Carly dogging her every step.

 Gia and Nikolas lagged behind them. “Is there anyone that your maid of honor gets along with?” Nikolas whispered, fiercely.

 “Yeah. My Bridesmaids,” Gia whispered back.

 “She hasn’t met them yet.”

 “I meant Liz Emily.” Nikolas raised his eyebrows. “Ok, maybe not exactly now,” Gia amended. “But it wouldn’t surprise me if by the wedding they’re best friends. Carly can be a very likable person. If she wants to be. Who knows, she could probably have your granny eating outa the palm of her hands if she works hard enough.”

 “Now there’s a thought that does the mind good,” Nikolas muttered as they entered Grace’s office.

 “Please, have a seat.” Grace indicated to the sofa facing her desk.
 
 

 Ninety minutes later, Nikolas had barely said ten words, and Gia was slightly miffed. She’s never seen him so lacking in opinions before. Of course, so far the only thing that’s been settled was the color for the bridesmaids’ dresses. Apparently, Carly and Liz had decided to put their dislike for each other on back burner, and together with Emily had decided on dress colors.

 “I Know that we should have probably waited until your other friends got here…but majority ruled,” Carly had told her.

 “Yet, you conveniently forgot that the so-called minority didn’t get any say,” Nikolas had inserted.

 Carly had blithely ignored him and continued, “Liz and I figured that you had enough problems with your family, and acquiring Helena for a grandmother was hell enough unto itself, so we decided to behave like two mature adults and not add to you hassles.”

 Nikolas had snorted and said, “How generous of you.” And Gia had yet to decide whether he was being sarcastic or not.

 So it was decided that the bridesmaids were going to wear silver dresses, with Carly’s being slightly different in color, but not in style, and that the groomsmen would wear silver cummerbunds to match.

 Right now, though, it was time to leave. Everybody rose to leave, saying their good-byes. As they stepped out of the office Carly couldn’t resist throwing a grin over her shoulder at Grace, adding a cheerful “See you next week, hon.” Grace, on the other hand, obviously did not think that it was something to be happy about.

 Five minutes later, they were standing in the parking garage in Grace’s building. “Where you guys headed?”

 “We’re heading to see my mom, then the grill to meet Jane and Cynthia. You should come with us and meet them.”

 “Can’t” Carly responded. “I have an appointment with the cutest thing since beanie-babies. It's me and Michael time in about half an hour. I will not be forgiven if I miss it. Later.”
 

Chapter IX
 

 She stood silently in front of her mother’s door, silently debating whether or not she wanted to go through this now, when in just an hour she’ll have to meet friends for lunch and discuss her wedding. She’s came close to backing out so many times in the car she’d lost count. After her last attempt to put it off, Nikolas made her a deal: while she was having her talk with her mom at her apartment…Nikolas will go and have his with Stefan at the hospital. Now, how could she have said no to that? Not that she was a particularly big fan of Stefan’s, but he was Nikolas’ uncle, and she knew that his disapproval was killing Nikolas as much as her mom’s was killing her. No matter what she or Nikolas said, they know that their wedding day wouldn’t be completely perfect without their respective parent. They needed Stefan and Florence there.

 So now, there she was, standing in front of her mother’s door, about to have what will probably the most important conversation she’ll ever have with her. She was dreading, and rightly so because the outcome of this conversation can alter her relationship with her mom forever. Taking a deep breath, she rang the doorbell, pressing on it for a good five seconds before releasing it. Then doing it again for good measure.

 From the other side of the door, Florence came storming out from her office planning on putting who ever was so rude to be ringing her door bell like that in his place. She yanked the door open, ready to start her tirade, only to come face to face with her very startled daughter.

 “Gia, baby. What are you doing here?” she questioned, slightly puzzled, but very pleased, seeing as how her last conversation with her daughter had ended on a very sour note.

 “I was a hoping we could talk?” her tone was slightly questioning, but Florence could tell by her eyes that she was determined and wasn’t about to back down on anything.
 
 

 The things he got himself into, thought Nikolas as he made his way to his uncle’s office at General Hospital. Having the same argument with Stefan, where he insists that he’s an adult and his uncle was to stay out of his life and trust him, just wasn’t high on his list of things that needed to be done today. But, he had promised Gia, and would do anything for Gia…including having the same old argument with his uncle. Sighing to himself, he used his knuckles to rap softly on his uncle’s office door. Hearing Stefan’s “Yes?” he pushed the door open just wide enough to poke his head through, then a little wider so as to fit his entire body.

 “Nikolas, to what do I owe this surprise visit?” Stefan’s voice was calm, revealing no emotion whatsoever, and Nicholas was once again impressed by his uncle’s complete coolness. If he ever lost all his money, the man could make killing playing poker.

 Nikolas was no slouch in the hide-the-emotions department either, so in a voice that did nothing to disclose his inner turmoil he simply said, “We need to talk. About our relationship as well as my relationship with Gia.”
 
 

 “See,” Gia said as she stood in front of her mom in the living, “the way I figure it is…you’re my mom, and you love me and you just want to protect me and I appreciate that…you’ve done an amazing job of protecting me. But, I’m an adult, I have my own life, I can – no I need - to be able to make my own decisions without you forever looking over my shoulder and trying to control and criticize me all the time.”

 “Gia –“ Florence tried to interrupt.

 “No,” Gia held up a hand, “let me finish…I have to say this cause it needs to be said…I know your relationship with dad wasn’t the most ideal –“ she took a deep breath before continuing –“ok, so understatement of the century…but you have to understand this…Nikolas is not dad, and I’m not you. I’m not making the same mistake with Nikolas that you made with dad.”

Finally running out of steam, Gia fell silent and sat on the coffee table facing her mother. They sat together in silence for what seemed like hours, but were in reality only a few minutes. Finally, Florence spoke up “You know, no matter what happened between me and your father…I don't regret our entire relationship. Only the end. Anyway, it doesn’t really matter how we ended…cause I got you in the bargain.” She sighed. “Gia, I’m sorry. I just didn’t want what happened to me to happen to you…stuck in marriage you didn’t want to be in, but not able to get out.”

“Mom,” Gia moved to seat beside her. “I know, you just want what’s best for me. And right now, what’s best for me is for you to trust me, to trust my decisions and my love for Nikolas, and his for me. I need you to be on my side and be happy for me.”

“Oh honey, I can do that. I can be happy for you,” she pulled her daughter into a hug, “I am happy for you. But I reserve the right to skin Nikolas alive if ever hurts you.”

Gia laughed. “Wouldn’t have it any other way, mom.”
 
 

So much for the perfect poker face. The look on Stefan’s face was one of open incredulity…for half all of half a second. Then it was back to cool and unflappable Stefan. “Your relationship with Ms. Campbell? What can we possibly have to discuss?”

Was he serious? Looking closely at Stefan’s face…Nikolas decided…yup dear old Uncle Stef was serious. “You are kidding right? How about we discuss your treatment of Gia?”

“I’ve always treated Ms. Campbell with utmost respect.” Stefan defended.

“Yeah,” Nikolas agreed, “while at the same time reminding her that in your opinion, she’ll never be good enough to marry into our illustrious family.”

“The girl, Nikolas, is common…and you are the Cassadine Prince.” Open mouth, insert foot…way to go Stefan. “I simply think that if you give yourself some time, you can find a more suitable woman to marry.”

“Exactly what I am talking about, Uncle.” Coming to stand directly in front of Stefan’s desk, Nikolas made sure that they were looking at each other, eye to eye, before continuing. “Allow me to explain something to you Uncle…I am no longer five…I will not be intimidated into doing your bidding. I am a grown man who knows what he wants…and what I want is a life with Gia as my wife, the Cassadines be damned. Now, until you are ready to accept that…to accept Gia as is…there is no need for you to speak to us.”

 With that said, Nikolas turned on his heels heading for the door. As his hand reached the doorknob, Stefan spoke up “You will give up our relationship because of a girl?”

 “No, Uncle,” Nikolas said with out turning around, “that is your doing.”

 “Does Ms. Campbell know and appreciate the lengths you will go through, to keep her in your life? The blind loyalty and the complete love you have for her?”

 “It goes both ways,” said Nikolas, never changing his position by the door.

 “I guess, I’ll be seeing you at dinner tomorrow night?” It was a statement more than a question.

 “Good day, Uncle,” Nikolas said before going out of the door.

 Chapter X
 

 Seven minutes after one, Nikolas and Gia made their way into the PC Grill dining room.

“How may I help you?” questioned the stuffy and uptight Maitre’d.

 “Cassadine, party of four,” Nikolas responded, Gia’s hand firmly encased in his.

“Ahhh…Mr. Cassadine. The rest of your party awaits. If you’ll please follow me.” With that said, the Maitre’d ex a sharp little turn and started to lead them to their table.
 When Gia saw her friends sitting at the table, she was…ecstatic. It's not that things didn’t feel right before…ok, so the only thing that really felt right was her relationship with Nik…having her friends there just seemed to make everything a little more perfect. OK, so Cynthia was going to kill her because she’s not maid of honor, she and Gia had been best friends since junior high…but at the time, Gia felt Carly was the best choice, and she was happy with her choice. As for Janey…well, between Janey and Emily, Gia figured she’ll probably still have her sanity by the end of the whole thing.

  Janey was sitting with her back to the, and while Cynthia was facing the entrance, she was too busy flirting with one of the waiters to notice anyone, until Gia threw her arms around Janey’s neck from behind, “Still a flirt I see.” The comment was directed, of course, at Cynthia.  “Hey, Jane. I see you and Miss Flirt-Till-I-Drop over there have already met.”

 “We didn’t have a choice,” Cynthia made a face. “We did  ride all the way from New York together.” By then, Gia had let go of Janey to give Cynthia a hug.

 “And you're not one to accuse people of being flirts, Miss Thang. I remember you well.” Janey couldn’t resist adding.

 “Thank you,” said Cynthia.

 Gia looked at them in mock anger “Three hours in a car together, and you're already ganging up on me? Isn’t there a law against that? And, anyway…I’m a retired flirt.”

 “And I’m guessing cutie over there is the reason.” Cynthia threw a wolfish smile at Nikolas, who, up to this moment was standing quietly by. Currently, he was valiantly fighting not to squirm under the gazes of Cynthia and Janey.

 “Oooohhhh…hey, allow me to introduce, Cynthia Field and Janey Cruz, my fiancé, Nikolas Cassidine.” She smiled at Nikolas…”Nik, these are my friends. Cyn and I have known each other since we were eleven, and Janey was my roommate at Columbia.”

 “How long were you at Columbia?” asked a puzzled Nikolas. He didn’t think she spent a lot of time there.

 “I was there long enough to make friends at least with my roommate.”

 “Oh, just so you know,” began Cynthia as the sat down. “I forgive you for not making me maid of honor, but I reserved the right to kick your current one’s ass if she pisses me off.”

 “I’d pay money to see that,” Nik said quietly. “I don't think anyone’s ever actually kicked Carly’s ass before…many have tried, from my understanding. But, none succeeded.”

 “Sounds like a challenge,” Cynthia raised an eyebrow.

 “Hey, my wedding. So I say no ass kicking.” Gia looked each of them in the eye. “Unless it’s done by me.”
 
 

 Eleven o’clock that night.

 “Long day,” Nikolas said as he stretched out on the bed.

 “You don't say.” She climbed onto the bed, sitting back on her heels facing him. “So, are you going to tell me what happened with your uncle?”

 Nikolas didn’t answer. He was too busy staring at the expanse of skin exposed by her open shirt. He figured if he focused hard enough, he could probably open the rest of the shirt, so that he could see her breast. But only if he focused.

 “Nikolas!” She leaned forward, hitting him on the thighs, and giving Nikolas a perfect view of what he was trying to see.

 “What? You know, it’s really hard to have a conversation with you dress like that. Hell, it’d probably be hard to have a conversation with you dress in a nun’s habit. I’m easily distracted.” Nikolas complained.

 “Your uncle,” she reiterated. “How did things go with your uncle?” If he kept staring at her like that, she will not be held accountable for her actions.

 “Fairly well,” he replies. “I have a feeling he won’t be a problem much longer. And you mom?”

 “She’s on our side,” Gia could feel herself become just a little breathless.  “Of course if you piss her off and she decides to take you on…I don't think I’ll be much help to you.”

 “Fine, fine. That's fine, you know,” Nikolas said as he sat up to face her. “Cause,” he leaned in and kissed her, “I don't plan on giving her any reason to be piss,” he finished…positioning her so that her knees were on either side of his thighs, his hand encircling her waist.

 “Ok, that’s…ah…good.” By then, Gia was already losing all sense of the conversation. But, really who cares? The feel of Nikolas’s lips on her neck was the only she didn’t want to lose track of at the moment.
 

Chapter XI
 

 “Mom, hey,” Gia said as she opened the door to her mother. “Come on in…Nik’s in the kitchen. Play nice. That goes for you too, Marcus.” She told her brother, who was standing right behind Florence.

 “I’m always nice,” said Marcus with a charming smile, planting a kiss on her cheek.

 “And Sonny’s coming and AJ’s here already,” she continued, ignoring her brother’s scowl. “Donut make me angry.”

 “Warning duly noted.”

 Gia hadn’t taken two steps back toward the kitchen, before the doorbell rang again. She opened the door to a grinning Carly and Sonny looking slightly  ill at ease  .

 “I already read him the riot act,” were the first words out Carly’s mouth. “We’ll stay an entire foot away from your brother, and we will not say anything to AJ unless it’s pass the butter please.”

 “Thank you,” breathed Gia.

 “Who’s here already?” questioned Carly as she and Sonny stepped into the cottage. “My mom, my brother Cynthia Janey, the rest of the gang…” Carly raised her eyebrows at that, “AJ, Alexis and Ned.”

 “Hi,” Laura said breathlessly from behind Carly, with Stefan right on her heels.

 “I love it when everyone shows all at once,” said Gia. “Mrs. Spencer, Mr. Cassadine.”

 “Laura, Mr. Cassadine.” Carly said with a sincere smile to Laura, and a slightly uncomfortable one thrown at Stefan.

 “Hey Carly, Sonny.” Laura smiled. Stefan and Sonny merely nodded their acknowledgment.

 “Well,” Gia said in a too cheerful voice. “Everyone come in.”

 Falling into a step beside Gia, Carly whispered “You certainly know how to pick your friends and family.”

 “I am my own worst enemy…” Gia said on a sigh.

 “Up side,” Carly returned cheerfully, “no one can accuse your wedding, or your life for that matter, of being boring.”
 
 

 They were eating the main course, and unbelievably enough, the conversation at the dinner table have been lacking. Ned discussed L&B with Nikolas.  Carly didn’t even ask AJ to pass the butter, instead she chose to join Laura and Alexis in their interrogation of Janey and Cynthia. Sonny and Stefan were discussing… something no one else understood. Emily and Liz kept valiantly trying to get everyone on a common topic, with out much luck.

 Finally, Stefan decided to bring everyone’s attention to the reason why they were actually together: the wedding. “So, Nikolas, have you and Miss Campbell given any thought to where you will hold the Bacchanalia?”

 “The what?” Gia asked, puzzled.

 “It's a family tradition. Has my nephew not told you about it?”

 “I was hoping to avoid it,” Nikolas said in a dry tone.

 “And considering what happened to dear Kitty Bell during hers…I think it’s a wise decision,” Lucky couldn’t help adding.

 “It's a family tradition,” Stefan, “and as a Cassidine, it’s part of your family legacy. And, young Mr. Spencer, do I need to remind you exactly why what happened to Katherine happened?”

 “What happened to Katherine?” a curious Janey asked.

 “Who is Katherine?” Gia asked.

 “She was my uncle’s fiancee,” Nikolas supplied. “And she fell off the parapet during the ball.”

 “Someone arranged for her to fell,” corrected Emily.

 “It was meant for Helena,” muttered Alexis. Everyone looked at her. “So I heard?”

 “Yeah well, too bad she didn’t stay dead.” Elizabeth intoned.

 “There’s simple solution to making sure history doesn’t repeat itself,” Sonny spoke up.

“Don't hold it  at Wyndemere and stay off balconies.”

 “Who said we were having the ball?” asked Nikolas, who noticed the decision was being made for them.
 “It's a family tradition Nikolas…and I’d like to do this as a peace offering to you and Ms. Campbell.”

 Don't do it guys…” said Lucky. “So many bad things can happen.”

“We thank you oh pessimistic one,” Carly sent him a dirty look.

“It can be fun,” added Janey.

“And, I don't particularly consider Katherine falling off the parapet to be a bad thing,” Laura concluded. “No offense,” she added as an afterthought to Stefan.

 “Well?” Stefan looked at Gia and Nikolas.

 Nikolas looked at Gia, asking her opinion. “Keep it as Cassadine free as possible…and you got yourself a deal.”

 Nikolas turned to look at his uncle. “What she said.”

 “Excellent,” Stefan gave them a satisfied smile. Nikolas groaned, and Gia just briefly closed her eyes and sighed.
 

Chapter XII
 

OK…I’m gonna jump start this a little. The wedding’s in six weeks. The date is May 20, just a random date. I was having timeline problems. Anyway, the Bacchanalia’s in two weeks. Really wouldn’t want to be the party planners Stefan hired to put the little shingding together.
 

 “I am having just the best day of my life,” Carly announced, whirling into the bridal shop where Gia, Janey, Emily and Cynthia were waiting for her.

 “Well, I was having a great day,” Cynthia responded. But it just went down south.

 “And you swapped the Carly-Liz problem, for the Carly-Cynthia problem,” Emily whispered in Gia’s ear. “Hey Michael,” she said to the cute three-year-old boy who was propped up on Carly’s right hip. Taking Michael from Carly, she said, “hey Carly.”

 “He’s cute, Carly,” Cynthia said. “He looks nothing like you.”

 “You know,” Carly replied with a tight smile, “you are just begging for an ass kicking before this wedding is over.”

 “I’ll like to see you try,” Cynthia said.

 “Keep it up, and you two will have to answer to me,” Gia said in absolute seriousness.
 
“OK, Miss Attitude,” Cynthia said.

 “No kidding,” Carly agreed.

 Walking over to Gia, Emily wrapped her in an awkward hug, and whisper “I feel for you. Good luck, and I’ll see you later.”

 Than, looking at the three-year-old still in her arms, she said with a smile, “Michael, Auntie Emily’s got to go, but I’ll see you soon. OK, baby.” Returning Michael back to Carly, she threw a careless wave over her shoulder as she left.

 “OK, who’s up next?” asked Carly, her attention focused on the task at hand.

 “You,” Janey replied. “We’re all set. This place is amazing.”

 “Yeah” agreed Carly. “Who would have thought that Sonny would know where to find great wedding dresses.” At the looks Janey and Cynthia sent her, she felt compelled to explain. “He bought my wedding dress.”

 The proprietor of the store, Liah Kade chose that moment to enter from somewhere in the back. “OK, are we all set?”

 “Almost. Our maid of honor decided to grace us with her presence,” said Cynthia.

 “OK, then. I’ll go grab the dress and we can see what needs to be done,” Liah said, heading back where she came.

 Five minutes later, Carly was standing on a stool in front of a full-length mirror, while Liah tucked and adjusted.

 “What's going on with the Bacchanalia?” she asked Gia.

 “Stefan’s telling us nothing.”

 “Got a dress yet?” she turned to look at Gia.

 “Stand still,” Liah ordered.

 “Sorry.”

 “We’re going to have to take at least an inch off the bust line, and two out of the hip.”
Liah told them. “But otherwise, no problem. You can go change now,” she told Carly.

“You have a dress yet?” Carly called out from the dressing room.

 “Yeah. You?”

 “Nope,” Carly said, coming back out.

 “Neither do we,” Janey said coming up behind her. “Cyn and I were planning on going hunting sometime tomorrow afternoon. Wanna come with?”

 Flashing Cynthia a smile, “I’d love to,” Carly said. Cynthia scowled.

 “Great!” Janey turned Gia. “G?”

 “Niki and I have plans to go over the flower arrangements with Grace. My mom’s gonna be there.” She made a face at them.

 “I’m sure Grace is going to miss having me there,” Carly said with smile.

 “No, I don't think she will.” Gia replied.

 Giving her a dirty look, Carly said, “Either way, she’s gonna see me next week.”

 Turning her attention to where Michael was sitting quietly on the floor with Cynthia, she knelt down until she was at eye level with her son. “Hey Mr. Man, I bet you're itching to get home and get some sleep, huh?”

 “We’re all set, anyway.” Gia picked up her bag. “Let’s go. We’re leaving, Liah.” She called out to the back room.

 “See you in two weeks,” Liah said, popping her head out the room.
 

Chapter XIII

To those of you who are wondering:

The Bacchanalia

Gia
Janey
Cynthia
Emily
Elizabeth
Carly

The Wedding

Gia
Maid of honor & Bridesmaids (the one on the girl w/ curly hair is’ maid of honor’s the other one the bridesmaids) for the wedding the dresses are bluish silver:
Lulu
 

 “No no no,” Gia muttered as she stood in front of the mirror in the bedroom.

“What?” asked Nikolas, coming out of the bathroom and buttoning his dress shirt.

“My zipper’s stuck,” Gia said with an exasperated sigh, looking at him in the mirror.

 “Well then, let’s unstuck it,” Nikolas replied as he approached her. “You look amazing, you know that.”

 Gia smiled at him in the mirror. “You’re not so bad yourself, and you're not even fully dressed yet.”

 Dropping a light kiss on her exposed shoulder, Nikolas settled the zipper in its proper place. “Yeah, well I try,” he said with feigned modesty, turning her around to face him.

 “Cute,” she smiled.

 “I know,” he replied, before leaning in and kissing her.

 “You’re gonna mess up my lipstick,” she said when they finally came up for air.

 “I don't really care,” Nikolas murmured, kissing her again.

 “Well, I don't,” Gia said against his lips. “But if, we keep this up, we're going to be late.”

 “I don't care. It's our party,” he kissed her some more.

 “Niki,” Gia was breathless and Nikolas was successfully backing her into a wall.

 “Stop talking,” Nikolas said, dropping to kiss her neck and bare shoulders, his hand working on the zipper he had only seconds ago zipped up. Well, Gia thought, never let it be said that I don't know how to follow orders.
 
 

 They were late. Nikolas was pretty damn sure that his uncle was going to kill them, right now he couldn’t think of anything but Gia, who was standing next to him, her hand in the crook of his arm, looking absolutely stunning her wine colored  ball gown.

They were waiting at the top of the steps, out of sight of the guests, as a servant informed Stefan of their arrival. Lightly tapping on his glass, Stefan waited until he had everyone’s attention before speaking.

“Ladies and Gentlemen,” by then Stefan was standing in the center of the room and was in his element. The man was made for public speaking. “As you all must know, my nephew is getting married in a few short weeks, six to be precise, to the love Gia Campbell. This is evening is a celebration of their engagement. And I would like you all to help me in welcoming and congratulating the future Mr. and Mrs. Cassadine.

The room broke into applause as Gia and Nikolas made their way in. in a not so remote corner of the room, Taggert took half a second to adjust himself that he’d soon be related to the Cassadines, even if it was only by marriage. The bright smile on Florence’s face as she hugged her daughter only served to hide what she was really thinking about: all the evil things she’ll do to Nikolas if he hurt her baby. From opposite sides of the room, Cynthia and Carly let loose with matching wolf whistles. Ten minutes after their grand entrance, Nikolas and Gia had hugged half of the people at the party. They never figured Port Charles to be that affectionate, but who cared? Things would get back to normal soon enough. Tonight, they were going to party and enjoy themselves, and Nikolas made a mental note to keep Gia firmly in sight and away from the parapet. All sorts of strange things could happen at Wyndemere.
 

Chapter XIV
 

 “Are we having fun yet?” Nikolas questioned Gia as he gently twirled her around the dance floor.

 She smiled up at him. “Yes I am…and you cant tell me that you aren’t.”

 “Yeah…considering the history of this place, my family and the ball…It’s not so bad.”

 “According to Carly only witches get thrown off the parapet,” Gia informed him. “Of course Liz was within hearing distance when she said that and you’ll be proud to know she won the battle against her inner demons and didn’t say anything mean.”

 Nikolas chuckled. “Glad to hear it.”

 Lucky walked over to where they were dancing. “Can I cut in?” Lucky asked, tapping Nikolas on the shoulder. “I’d like to have just one dance with the beautiful bride to be before I haul ass out of here.”

 “You’re leaving so early, Luck?” Gia asked as she stepped into Lucky’s arm for a waltz.

 “Hate to eat and run but Liz got an early morning class.”

 As they twirled across the dance floor, Gia noted with surprise that Lucky had not once step on her toes. “Not bad. My feet are still intact.”

 “I’m a Spencer,” Lucky replied indignantly. “There isn’t a thing we can't do, including dance. Especially dance.”

 In the mean time, Carly had decided to make Nikolas her new dance partner. Sonny was somewhere around the room trying to avoid being dragged out onto the floor. He didn’t have much luck putting Cynthia off, so they were dancing and Carly wouldn’t take her eyes off of them.

 “I don't think she has much of a chance of getting him to run away with her.” Nikolas said quietly, but still startling Carly out of her reverie.

 “Excuse me?”

 “You keep staring any harder, you will stare the proverbial hole straight through Cynthia and right into Sonny.”

 “I’m not staring,” Carly grumbled. “And she’s a kid.”

 “Exactly…”

 “I’m not jealous.”

 “You’re just annoyed.”

 “Right.”

 Five minutes later, Gia was back where she belonged, in Nikolas’ arms. “Hmmm,” she sighed, “this feels good.”

“Oh yeah,” Nikolas murmured in her hair. “Glad to see that Lucky returned you in one piece.”

“Yeah…I was kinda expecting bruised feet myself.”

Nikolas continued to waltz her around the room in silence. “This wasn’t such a bad idea, was it?”  Gia asked quietly.

“Well, I know how against it I was in the beginning, I have to admit though, that it wasn’t the worst idea my uncle’s ever had.”
 
 

Later in the evening, Gia was still safely wrapped in Nikolas’ arms as they said goodbye to her family. After kissing her mother on the cheek, with a promise to call the next day, Gia and Nikolas walked back to where Stefan stood inside the room.

“Uncle…”

“I take it everything was to your liking?” Stefan asked with studied casualness.

“We truly appreciated it, Mr. Cassadine.” Gia said with a genuine smile. “I know that we objected in the beginning, but…”

“I’m glad to see that you decided to stay away from the parapet.” Gia could have sworn that Stefan almost looked amused.

“Yeah, well….I wasn’t taking any chances.”

“Glad to hear it.”

Gia then surprised both Stefan, and Nikolas, by reaching over and giving Stefan a somewhat awkward hug, but it was a hug anyway.

“Thank you, for caring and for accepting our decision,” she said quietly. Stefan didn’t reply, but merely hugged her back.
 

Chapter XV
 

“Gia, breath.” Liz said, slightly exasperated.

“Yeah,” Emily agreed. “It's not the end of the world. We can fix this.”

“I can't believe they screwed up my reservations like that!”

“And you gotta ask yourself, how they manage to do that. I mean it’s not like this town is brimming over with black tie events.” Cynthia threw her hands in the air with a disgusted sigh.

“It's Port Charles…Murphy’s Law was invented with this town in mind.” Lucky shrugged, popping a couple of M&Ms in his mouth.

“Donut worry…okay. We’ll just figure something else out.” Janey said, with a reassuring hand on Gia’s shoulder.

“We’re not changing our wedding date.” Everyone looked up at Nikolas, surprised. He hadn’t said anything since the hotel called to tell them the PC Grill was double booked.

“Of course not,” Janey replied. “We’ll just find another place to hold the reception.”

“That's a lot of work for one week,” Liz said thoughtfully.

“Wyndemere!” Everyone looked at Cynthia. “I’m sure your Uncle will have no problem with holding the reception at Wyndemere, and bring the entire staff into the planning and with all us, and with the organizational nazi you have over there,” she jerked her thumb in the general vicinity of Carly, who promptly stuck her tongue out at her, “I’m sure we can pull it off.”

“No way.” Nikolas immediately objected, “It's one thing to allow Uncle to throw us an engagement party over there, but not the wedding reception.”

“The No Name?”

“It's a mob playground, and while I have no problem with it, I’m not sure brother dear really wants to hold the reception there either.”

Carly made a face at him. “You can have the entire place shut down for the night, it’s small enough that security can be kept tight…and it’s in town. So no packing wedding dresses and wedding party members on a tight launch to go to an island. It’ll really be easier.”

“You seem to be forgetting something,” Lucky objected, “the only people allowed inside that place are the ones with connections.”

“NO connections…the fact that you and Sonny are in my wedding is connection enough.” Gia told Carly.

“So what does that leave us with?” questioned Janey.

“It leaves us with, the Outback and Luke’s.” Gia said.

“Luke’s is out of the question. Not friendly ground at all.” Lucky shook his head…

“Maxie’s sweet sixteen is the day before,” Emily said with a cringe… “and it’s being held at the Outback…”

“Well, you are connected,” Lucky said with a smile.

“There’s still Wyndemere.”

“The No Name is easier,” Gia said. “Can Sonny get us the place?”

“You doubt?”
 
 

Later that afternoon, Gia quietly studied Nikolas from across their dinner table. “You don't mind that the reception’s being held at theNo Name, do you?”

“No…I can't really complain about connections…” he paused, “I mean my family may not be, but they’re dangerous enough. Carly’s your best friend, and it was nice of Sonny to get us the entire restaurant.”

“Would you have preferred it at Wyndemere, though?”

“The No Name’s more convenient, seeing as the ceremony’s going to be at Queen of Angels. Wyndemere’s kind of awkward.”

“Didn’t really answer my question…”

“Honey, relax everything’s going to be perfect… and that’s all I care about…well, that and being married to you.”
 
 

Chapter XVI
 

Two days before the wedding was the final fitting for the dresses…seven women and one very small store. Gia was standing in front of the full-length mirror, having one final look at the dress before the wedding.

Florence put a hand over her heart, and gave a quiet sniffle. “Baby, you look amazing.”

“If this is how your mother’s reacting to a fitting….” Carly whispered.

“Yeah…I know, she’s gonna be a blubbering idiot at the wedding.”

“I heard that. My baby’s getting married, and I can blubber all I want to.”
 

“Are you sure everything’s all set?” Cynthia questioned Carly, again.

“Yes!” Carly snapped back. “Now, you ask me that again and I’m having Johnny stop the car and making you walk.”

“I’d like to see you try.”

“You really wanna go there?”

It was a little under twenty-four hours before the wedding, and Carly and Cynthia, the two people most likely to kill each other, were the chosen two who got to kidnap Gia the night before her wedding.  As a result, they were currently sharing a limo, on their way to the cottage. Somewhere behind them were Lucky and AJ, following in Lucky’s jeep, their own kidnapping plan in mind.

“Mrs. Corinthos, we're here.”

“Thanks, John. Let’s get this show on the road,” she said, without even looking at Cynthia. By the time Johnny’s opened the door for them, Lucky and AJ had pulled up behind the limo and were getting out of their own vehicle.

Inside the cottage, Gia and Nikolas had decided to get a head start on their honeymoon. When the doorbell rang, they were in various stages of undressed, Gia in a red sating tap pants and Nikolas still in his boxers, on the living room couch. Managing to ignore the bell, they worked their way off the couch, and onto the floor with a loud thud.

Outside the cottage, AJ snickered, Lucky sighed and said “G-d, I hoped they didn’t break anything.”

Cynthia tried the doorknob, and finding it unlocked, stepped into the doorway. “We’re unarmed and come in peace.”

Gia was about to pull away from Nikolas, who instead of letting her go, pulled her right back down onto his chest, keeping her back to the intruders. “What do you guys want,” questioned Gia, not able to look at them.

“If you guys would answer your doorbell….” Cynthia began.

“I really did not need to see this “ Lucky muttered. AJ wasn’t saying anything, but instead was looking everywhere but at the couple on the floor.

Carly made a big production out of looking at her watch… “You two have five minutes to get dressed, or else we're coming after you and dragging you away in whatever state of undressed you might be. We’ll be waiting outside. Do not make us come back in here.”
 

Six minutes later and Gia was sitting between Cynthia and Carly in the limo about to leave the cottage.

“Can’t believe you guys did that.”

“What did we do?” Cynthia asked innocently. “You and Nikolas need to learn to answer your doorbell.”

“And lock your doors,” Carly added.

“And anyway,” Cynthia continued, “you should be so grateful that Marcus didn’t come along.”

“Or Stefan, or your mom, or Laura. There are so many ways this could have been worse.”

In the jeep, Nikolas sat staring at the passing scenery, Gia still on his mind. Finally, he directed his attention onto his brother and AJ Quartermaine sitting in the front. “Where are they taking her?”

“Carly’s place,” Lucky replied.

“Where are we  going?”

“The Brownstone.”
 

Chapter XVII
 

“Surprise!”

“Welcome,” Carly began, pulling Gia inside the penthouse with a flourish, “to your bachelrrette party.” Gia looked at her. “What? You didn’t actually think that we would let your wedding go by without a party did ya?”

“Well, now that you mention it…No?”

“Good then, come on, have a sit. Eat. Enjoy the party, and your present from us girls.”

Seeing the gleam in Carly’s eyes, Gia laughed. “You didn’t.”

“Didn’t what?”

“You did. I know you did, especially with her,” she looked at Cynthia, “in the mix.”
“We don't have a clue what you're talking about.” Cynthia said with a huff.

The Brownstone

“What do you think they’re doing over there?” Nikolas asked Lucky for the umpteenth time.

“Definitely not wondering what the hell we're doing,” AJ replied.

Lucky moved away from Taggert’s bar where he was mixing a drink and came up beside Nikolas handing him the glass. Taking a sip, Nikolas immediately spit it back. “What the hell is that?”

“A Spencer special.”

Nikolas seemed to give it plenty thought before shaking his head and muttering, “Not going there.”

The knock at the door interrupted anything further that might have been said. Sonny, who was standing closer to the door, opened it to reveal a tall, stunning brunette on the other side. Flashing her a charming smile, all dimpled, he motioned with his hand. “I don't know who you're looking for but, please come in.”

Flashing Sonny her own smile, she went pass him to stand in the center of the room, Sonny still staring. Lucky came up to stand beside Sonny, barely moving his mouth, he whispered, “Don't even think about it Corinthos…my cousin will tear you to shreds.”

“I wasn’t thinking anything.”

“Keep it that way.”

Still standing in the center of the now quiet room, the brunette slowly turned around to take in her surroundings. Then in a breathless voice she said, “I’m looking for Nikolas Cassadine.”

“That would be him over there,” AJ offered.

Turning her smile onto Nikolas, she said. “Mr. Cassadine, allow to offer my congratulations, and to introduce myself. My name is Lana. I’m your engagement present.” Lifting her right hand, she casually removed the stick that was holding her hair in place, shaking out straight jet-black hair that reached halfway down her back. Within a minute, she had also removed her black trench coat to reveal a short red dress underneath.

Nikolas felt his throat go dry, and AJ nearly choked on his coke. Taggert and Ned both stop what they were doing to stare, their mouths hanging open. Stefan swallowed, and Sonny whispered “I love my wife but…Damn.” Lucky was grinning like an idiot.

PH4

“You don't think they have a stripper over there, do you?” Liz questioned, her eyes trained on the amazing specimen of a man who was doing an amazing job of making Laura Spencer blush.

“It's likely that they do.” Emily said, also staring with avid interest.

That statement immediately snapped Carly out of her trance. “If she has her hands on my man…”

“Seeing as how you hired him you're not allowed to make threats,” Alexis said from where she was sitting. “Where did you find this guy anyway?”

“What? You want to find one for yourself?” Carly said teasingly.

“I wouldn’t mind.” Florence said, eliciting a startled burst of laughter out of Carly.

Brownstone

“I think she liked me,” AJ said, has he helped Taggert and Lucky clean up the place.

“No kidding,” Lucky said sarcastically. “She gave you her phone number.”

“I think I should call her.”

“Carly would have a field day with that,” came Nikolas’ sleepy voice from the couch.

“How much did you have to drink?” asked a concerned Lucky.

“Too much. Gia’s gonna kill me,” Nikolas replied. “You and your damned Spencer specials.”

PH4

Sonny tiredly made his way into the bedroom he shared with his wife, to find her already in bed sleeping. Quietly, he stepped out of his clothes and slipped in beside her. Carly shifted position and threw her arm around his middle the second he climbed into bed. “Did you have fun?” she asked, her face buried in his neck.

“Yeah, you?”

“Oh yeah, a blast. Gia’s asleep in the guest room.”

“Really. Well, I left Nikolas asleep on Taggert’s couch.”

Carly chuckled. “They’re gonna be dead on their feet tomorrow. It's a good thing the wedding’s not early in the morning.”
 

Chapter XVIII

PH 4
Gia slowly opened her eyes, taking in her surroundings. Strange how she doesn’t remember her room -  any  room – at the cottage being this dark. And her brain was trying to pound its way out of her skull.

“Good morning, sleepy head.”

To top it off, she was hearing , and seeing, things. There was no way in hell that that could be Carly, her Carly coming into her room, carrying a breakfast tray with such a cheerful disposition.

“Isn’t it kinda early for you to be up?” Gia questioned, her voice groggy and squinting her eyes.

Carly made a face… “You know I’m being nice here.  I could have let you sleep straight through the wedding.”

Gia sat up in bed quickly. She knew  there was something she was forgetting. “What time is it?”

“Eleven o’clock. No worries, you’ll make it.” She sat on the bed next to Gia. “Here,” she handed her the tray, “eat. Your mom and everybody will be here soon. Sonny’s been kicked out, no guys and we have” she looked at her watch, “four and a half hours to get you ready.” She slapped her forehead. “Oh shit, on second thought…maybe you should worry…it took me that long to get ready when I was marrying AJ and three hours for my wedding with Sonny. And I didn’t like AJ and Sonny it was us the priest and the church.”

“You’re giving me a headache,” Gia grumbled.

Carly looked offended. “Me? I’m not the one who made you drink all that…stuff…you drunk. What would Niki said?”

With a sudden move, she quickly got off the bed…startling Gia…and headed for the door. “I’ll be back in half an hour. Eat, shower…brush your teeth.”

Across town: Brownstone

“Somebody shoot me now.” Nikolas slowly rolled onto his back, hiding his eyes behind his hands.

“Gia might be more than willing to if she sees you now.” Taggert stood in the doorway of his bedroom, in a wife beater black sweat pants and a towel around his neck.

“Why are you up?”

“I’m smarter than you?” Taggert responded, raising his eyebrows in question.

“Prince Niki,” Lucky said, entering the place as if he owned it. “Time to get up, you have a busy day ahead of you.”

“Go away.”

“Can’t. I’ve been instructed by your uncle…” Lucky paused to think about what he just said for a moment…then shook his head at the absurdity of that sentence. “I’ve been instructed by your uncle to bring you to the cottage. So, up and at ‘em sleeping beauty.”

PH 4

Slowly, Gia made her way down stairs to join Carly in the penthouse living room. She found Carly in a pair of jeans, and a shirt that could only be Sonny’s, sitting on the floor playing a game with Michael. When she noticed Gia, she smiled and said to Michael, “Look who it is Mr. Man. It's auntie Gia, awake clean and looking almost normal.”

‘I have to get to the cottage,” Gia said.

“Nope,” Carly promptly responded, “Cottage is off limits. Niki’s there. Your mom is bring everything you might need over here.”

“Carly the ceremony isn’t for another four hours. I have things to do at the church and the No Name…”

“Why do you think you know so many people? Laura, Cynthia and Emily are making sure everything’s all set at the church. Sonny has Johnny going over the security details down there. Your happy little bridal planner and Janey and Liz and some other people are working on the No Name. Chill…you’re not allowed to do anything today, except be pampered, say I do…and do the wedding night thing.”

Sticking her head through the penthouse door, she addressed the guard standing there. “Parker, get the car. We’re ready to go.”

“Where are we going?”

Instead of answering, Carly went to the foot of the stairs calling out to Leticia. “Leticia, we're leaving.” Within seconds Leticia was down the stairs, ready to take Michael for the time being. “ We’ll be back soon…if Mrs. Campbell comes before us…just have wait ok?”

“Sure,” was all Leticia said.

“See you in a few hours Mr. Man,” Carly said kissing her son on the forehead. “Let’s go,” she said to Gia, leading the way outside the apartment.
 

Chapter XIX

“OH Baby, you look amazing!” exclaimed Florence as she stared at her daughter, who had just stepped out of the bathroom in her slip with her hair all done.

“Wow,” Carly breathed, “she’s not even dressed yet. You could have convinced even me that I looked hot on Prom night.”

“I don't doubt that you looked hot on Prom night,” Sonny said, as he quietly sauntered into his bedroom…that didn’t look like his bedroom.

Carly whirled around to face her husband. “Sonny! You’re not supposed to be here.”

Sonny gave her a strange look. “That rule doesn’t apply to me. I’m not the groom.”

Luckily, Sonny had yet to noticed the not so dressed Gia, as she had quickly darted back into the bathroom when she heard Sonny’s voice.

“Yeah but Gia’s getting dressed in here, and I really don't want Nikolas to kill you because you caught a glimpse of his not completely dressed bride. Shouldn’t you be at the church, anyway?”

“I just stopped by to shower and change my clothes,” Sonny said in his defense.

“OK, well do it in the guest room, I’ll bring your tux to you. You know,” she added, “at the rate you're going we're gonna leave before you.”

“Yeah,” Sonny snorted. “I’d like to see the day.”

The Church

“Ok, ok…Taggert you wanna calm yourself down a little?” Lucky questioned. “I already have a my hands full dealing with Nikolas over here…a threatening father figure does not my day make.”

“I’m not threatening anyone. I don't threaten people,” Taggert groused.

“Yeah, tell it to the cops,” was AJ’s coment as he stepped into the little room. “They’re here. Everybody’s here.” He looked at Nikolas carefully, “you're ok there, Niki…you look a little green?”

“Since when did I become Niki to everyone?”

“Blame it on dear cousin Carly…”

“And you, I’m pretty damn positive,” Nikolas muttered. “I’m fine AJ…and if you can take officer Taggert with you…” the last part came out almost as a plea.

“Officer Taggert…let’s go say hi to your sister…I’m sure she’ll love to hear about how you're harassing her fiancé,” AJ said with a smirk.

“Nikolas,” came Laura’s soft voice, her head then appearing around the door. She fully stepped into the door, followed closely behind by Stefan.

“Mother. Uncle.”

“How are you doing?” Laura asked softly.

“I’m fine. I’m happy.”

“That's good. I’m happy for you, baby,” she said, giving him a hug… “I’ll see you outside…” She left then, leaving Nikolas alone with Stefan and Lucky.

Lucky looked around the room, and decided that there has been no better time to split. “See you out there, bro. Uncle Stef,” he nodded at Stefan’s direction.

At last, they were alone. “Nikolas,” Stefan began in a voice that sounded, to Nikolas, way too serious. “You know, despite the fact that I expected this day to come…I knew it would come…yet I’m still not ready for it.”

“I don't believe any parent is ever ready for this, Uncle,” Nikolas replied quietly.

“I also know, with everything I’ve said and all the arguments…it’s hard to believe that I want you to be happy. Ms. Campbell makes you happy. Now, it really wouldn’t make sense for me to stand in the way of your marriage, now would it?”

“I’m glad to hear that, Uncle. Gia does make me happy.”

“Well then,” Stefan gave him a small smile. “Let’s get you married, shall we?”

Bridal Room

“Five minutes to show time G. I’m very happy for you, you know?” Janey said with a smile and a hug for her former roommate.

“Thanks Jane,” she said returning the hug.

“Baby…” having reached the point where she is speechless, Florence merely hugged her daughter one more time before leaving to find her seat. Everyone had left, and it was only Gia, Taggert, Cynthia and Carly.

“Taggert, can I have a minute alone with Cyn and Carly.”

“Sure, I’ll see you outside, baby.”

“What's up?” Cynthia immediately asked after Taggert left.

“You guys are my best friends…I don't know what I would do without you guys. You’ve came into my life at different times…but it doesn’t matter cause you’ve always been there for me…and I love you guys for it.”

“Awww” Carly and Cynthia said both at the same time enveloping Gia in a hug.

“I didn’t think I’d ever see the day…but Port Charles is making you soft, Hon,” Cynthia said with a sniffle.

Just then, a knock sounded outside the door. “Yeah!”

“G! You’re ready, baby? It's time to get this party started.”

“You sound almost like you want me to get married, Marcus. You can come back. I’m ready.”

As Taggert came back in she turned around to face Carly and Cynthia once. “I’ll see you guys out there.”

After her friends left, she turned to face her brother with a wide smile. “Ready to get me married?”

“No,” Taggert replied with his own smile. “But I have to deal, don't I?”

“Yeah you do.”
 

Chapter XX

My little knowledge of what the priest should say, a lot of which I skipped, where learned here

Standing at the entrance of the church, with Carly on his arm, Lucky leaned over and whisper with patented Spencer smirk. “Dear Cousin Carly, you're not exactly the person I thought I’d be walking down the isle with when my time came.”

“Yeah, life tends to play all sorts of cruel tricks on you,” Carly replied mockingly. “And anyway, are you sure you should be in here? Isn’t there something about the devil not being able to set foot inside a church, or something?” She continues as they began to walk down the aisle.

“Well, then…you should be just as worried as me, shouldn’t you?”

“Me?” She questioned with mock innocence, “I’m as pure and innocent as they come.”

“That's blasphemy…I think. No lying in the House of G-d!”
 
 

“Smile,” Gia said through clenched teeth. “I’m not having you walk me down my aisle looking like you just tasted something particularly foul.” Taggert obliged her with a sincere smile.

“Much better.”

“If I haven’t told you already,” Taggert whispered, “you're very beautiful…and I’m happy for you. I want you to be happy.”

Gia smiled a slightly watery smile.  “Thank you…it means a lot, you know.” She gave a slight sniffle, “See now, I’m crying and it’s all your fault. If I become all puffy and tearstained, I’m siccing Carly and Cyn on you.”

The first chords of the wedding match started. “That's your song, baby girl,” Taggert said quietly.

“Let’s get me married.”
 

When he caught sight of her, Nikolas swore he stopped breathing.  “Now that is a sight worth remembering,”  Lucky said quietly next to him.

Nikolas, however didn’t hear a word he said. “Guess I’m talking to myself,” Lucky muttered.

From where she was standing opposite him, Carly mouthed Shut up.

Coming down the aisle on her brother’s arm, Gia was having a hard time remembering to put one foot in front of the other.

Patting her hand, Taggert sent her a smile. “It's gonna be ok.”

“I know...this is just – I’m very happy,” she said all that without once taking her eyes off Nikolas.
As they reached the alter, Taggert reluctantly gave Nikolas Gia’s arm, not able to resist sending him a final warning look, which Nikolas was too distracted to notice. “You look amazing,” he whispered with what Lucky will later describe as dopey smile, taking both of her hands in his.

“So do you.”

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered together in the sight of God to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony…If anyone can show just cause why these two should not be married, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

The request was met with blissful silence. Every body released an audible sigh.  I guess devils really cant set foot on holy ground, Lucky thought to himself. Mother, for once in your life, you actually showed good judgment, was the thought running through Stefan’s head.

“At this moment, Nikolas and Gia will recite their vows, which they had chosen to write themselves. Nikolas.”

“Gia…Sparky…I cant remember a day when I haven’t thought about you. You have been the best thing to come into my life, and I’ve sworn everyday to protect you, and to cherish you. I promise you that I will spend the rest of my life trying to make you happy. I will love you forever.”

“And now, Gia.”

“Nik…the way I feel for you words cant describe. From the beginning, you’ve been the best thing in this place, in the world. You have surpassed everything I’ve ever wished for in the man that I loved. You’re my dreams, my reality…my heart, and my soul. I will love you forever.”

“The rings please. Now, Nikolas, place this ring on Gia’s finger and repeat after me ‘with this ring I thee wed’.”

Hands slightly shaking, Nikolas did as he was told, bringing her knuckles to his lips for a light kiss. “With this ring, I thee wed.”

“Gia, you place the ring on Nikolas’ finger, ‘with this ring, I thee wed’.”

“With this ring, I thee wed,” she whispered on a sigh, her voice choked with emotion.

“By the power vested in me, I pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

Before he was even done speaking, Nikolas had already pulled Gia into a sweet, breath-stealing kiss.

“Ladies and gentlemen, may I be the first to present Mr. and Mrs. Cassadine.” The announcement was received with cheers and laughing from the audience.

Chapter XXI

Sitting back and casually leaning her back into Nikolas, Gia admired their intertwined hands, their wedding rings.

 “We’re married,” she said quietly.

“Yes, we are.”

“And nothing went wrong,”

“Knock on wood, the night’s not over yet.”

“Well, nothing can ruin this night…nothing.”

“I feel the same way,” Nikolas said, lightly kissing her neck. “You’re stuck with me forever, Sparky? Are you sure you're ready for it?”

Gia snorted, “Donut worry your pretty little head, Cassadine. I’m more than capable of handling you. Question is, are you ready to take me on?”

“I’ve always been and will always be ready to take you on, when ever and where ever…Cassadine.”

As he finished saying that, the limo came to a stop. “We have arrived, Mr. Cassadine,” said the driver’s voice over the intercom.

Gia slowly pulled away from Nikolas, turning to face him. Placing his hands on either side of her face, Nikolas brought his forehead to meet hers. He placed a light kiss on her lips. “I love you,” he whispered quietly.

“I love you too,” Gia said, as the chauffeur pulled the door on Nikolas’ side open.

Inside The No Name, everyone was there waiting for the bride and groom. Once they stepped inside the entrance, the clapping started. Nikolas smiled at everyone and brought Gia to meet him in another kiss.
 

“Hello? OK, is this thing on?” Lucky asked into the mic. Everyone stopped what they were doing to look at him. “Oh, good. It's on. I don't know if everyone knows this,” he said with his most charming smile, “but I’m the best man…which means that I get the lovely pleasure of making this toast. So, here goes. Nik, as you all know, is my brother. My favorite brother…ok, fine my only brother…which is all the more reason for me to love him. I don't have a backup. Over the last couple of years, we’ve had our ups and downs…our little family dramas, you know? Nothing big.”

Carly smirked. “He’s delusional, isn’t he?” Gia whispered to Nikolas. “Definitely,” muttered Emily from where she was sitting next to Carly.

“As, I was saying, brothers and all that…I know Nik, pretty well. I know when he’s happy, and right now he’s definitely happy. Nik, man, I am happy for you right now. I’m glad you’ve found what you looking for. And Gia, I’m glad you’ve come into his life, cause I know you're the best thing to have happen to him. I love you guys, and I wish you the world.”

After Lucky was finished, Cynthia decided to make her own speech. “I’ve known Gia practically all of my life. And if anyone deserves to be happy, it’s definitely her. G, you're my sister, my friend and my confidante. I’m so happy for you right now, words cant describe. Nikolas, I know I don't have to say it.”

“Warning duly noted,” Nikolas called from his seat.

“Good, I knew you were smart. In all actuality though, I hope that you guys have nothing but happy days ahead of you.”
 

Epilogue

“AAHH”, Gia cried with surprise laughter as Nikolas swept her up in his arms at their suite’s door.

“Mrs. Cassidine, welcome to Acapulco…and your honey moon.”

“Yeah?” She said, sliding slowly down to the floor, coming to stand face to face with him, their mouths inches apart.

“Yeah,” Nikolas whispered.

“You think we're gonna have much fun on this…honeymoon?”

“Yes, I do.”

“What, you're gonna make sure of that?”

“Yes, I am.”

“OK, well, what are you waiting for? I’m not seeing fun…”

“Remember that you ask for it,” Nikolas whispered, before leaning over to thoroughly kiss his new wife.

The End