| ~Chapter 16~ Satine could not help herself, the moment she spotted Toulouse hobbling towards her, she began jumping up and dawn, clapping her hands. Momentarily had by the sight of Satine's red curls bouncing up and down, Christian was startled when he felt a pair of arms wrap themselves around his knees and squeeze tightly. "Oh Chwistian! How we mifhed you!" Toulouse cooed, giving Christian's knees another strong squeeze. Christian's face went red and he tried to untangle himself from the little man's grip but found he couldn't loosen the dwarf's determined hands. "It's wonderful to see you too, Toulouse! Where's everyone else?" He asked curiously. "Oh, there they are Christian!" Satine said, pointing to the group of their friends walking toward them, obviously out of place among the English ladies and gentlemen in their traveling attire. Chocolat towered over the entire crowd with his warn top hat that did not match his suit. The Doctor excitedly wobbled behind Chocolat with an old, tattered suitcase that seemed to have a light stream of smoke coming out of the seams. Beside The Doctor with his usual limp, came Satie, his rainbow scarf tied extra close. Babydoll smiled brightly, her large dimples a reminder of her character, even without the costume. Trudging slowly, a little behind the rest of the crowd, was The Argentinean. *~* Satine was deep in a conversation with Babydoll, learning of where each of the Diamond Dogs had gone after the Moulin Rouge was closed. The Bohemians muddled about gathering their possessions off the multiple carriages that had taken them home from the train station. Satine lead the guests into the house and everyone stopped to look around. Whistles came from some and appreciative comments came from others. No one seemed to notice Christian still outside trying to lift a large trunk up the stairs, one step at a time. "I hadf no idew thfat our Penniless Poet wasf sow wewl off." Toulouse slurred in his ever gay tone. "Pretty good for someone that had to barrow a suit to go to the Moulin." The Argentinean said gruffly, truly impressed. A loud clunk was heard from outside the door as Christian dropped the trunk on his foot. Everyone dissolved into conversation again without noticing the young poet jumping up and down, his foot clutched in his hands. Satine left everyone in the foyer only to come back moments later with two butlers in toe. Without a word, the men took everyone's suitcases. Finally, having been relieved of his burden, Christian walked into the house and wrapped his arms around Satine's waist. "I don't know what you put in that suitcase, Babydoll, but it sure is heavy." Christian said to the young girl. "Oh that wasn't my trunk." She giggled, "I'm afraid you're act of chivalry was directed toward The Argentinean." Christian's eyes bulged and he buried his head in Satine's hair, trying to hide his embarrassment as everyone laughed at him. Satine and Christian began to direct everyone to their rooms. Toulouse had decided that it was more interesting to peek his little head into every room than wait for someone to tell him where he would be sleeping. Toulouse stopped at the bedroom right across from that which he was supposed to be in. That was how Christian found him, standing in the doorway with a silly grin on his face. "Cwistian, whowse woom is this?" He asked happily. "My little sister Emily's. Why?" Toulouse pointed to the flute stand, holding a place of honor in the center of the room. Then to the stacks of music and the half finished pieces of composition stuck to the walls, a striking resemblance to Christian's garret. Finally, the little man pointed his tiny finger to the framed picture of his own Green Fairy. "Cwistian, you're sistow's a bohemian!" He exclaimed, jumping up and down and clapping his hands together excitedly. *~* Satine clung to Christian as they made their way home from the bar, through the deserted streets of the London. The bohemians, from both sided of the channel, were having too much fun to think of going home before dawn. The couple had left Emily in charge of leading the boisterous group home. Satine's arms were wrapped around his waist and her head rested on his shoulder. Her position hampered their walk home considerably, but neither seemed to notice. "I think Toulouse was really charmed by your sister. He couldn�t get over the thought that there is so much talent in your family." Christian laughed, "I think he liked the idea that she was sort of hero worshiping him." "No more than the worships you!" Satine said in merriment. "Em doesn't worship me." Christian said, laughing at the idea. Satine shook her head, "The two of you absolutely adore each other." Changing the subject, she went on. "Everyone seemed to get along very well tonight," "Yes," Christian agreed, "all the English bohemians seemed completely enthralled. None of them had ever met an authentic bohemian before." Satine stopped, suddenly, almost making Christian trip over her feet. She pulled her arms off of Christian and placed them on her hips in an agitated manner. "And just what would you call me? I'm a bohemian, and I'm most definitely French!" Satine stated, trying not to laugh. Christian smiled, walking close to her, he put his arms around her waist and pulled her body flush against his. Suddenly, he captured her lips in a powerful kiss, taking Satine's breath away. "You were saying?" Christian asked after the two had finally broken apart. "Something about being madly in love with you?" Satine asked innocently. "Oh, really? In that case please, do go on." Satine smiled at him coyly before beginning. You treat me like I'm a princess, "You are!" Christian exclaimed loudly. Satine hushed him to keep his voice down but all Christian did was smile. She continued. I'm not used to lying in bed. You ask how my day was, You've already won me over in spite of me. Don't be alarmed if I fall, head over feet, Satine tried to give Christian a serious, warning look, but could not stop smiling. Don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are. I couldn't help it, It's all your fault. Christian laughed happily, awarding Satine with a gorgeous smile. Your love is thick and it swallowed me whole. You're so much braver than I gave you credit for. That's not lip service. You've already won me over in spite of me. Don't be alarmed if I fall, head over feet, Don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are. I couldn't help it, It's all your fault! You are the bearer of unconditional things, You held your breath and the door for me. Thanks for your patience. Satine leaned in close to Christian and placed a sweet kiss on his lips. You're the best listener that I've ever met, You're my best friend. Best friend with benefits. Christian raised an amused eyebrow. I've never felt this healthy before, I've never wanted something rational. Christian placed a hand on the side of her face and ran his thumb over her cheek and took over Satine's song. You've already won me over in spite of me. Don't be alarmed if I fall, head over feet, Don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are. I couldn't help it, It's all your fault. "I love you Christian." Satine said leaning close in anticipation of a kiss. "And I love you, Darling." Christian said, claiming her lips once again as his. Satine broke from the kiss suddenly as a cough over took her. She tried to suppress it but a limp noise still immerged from her throat. Christian frowned, "Come darling, let's get you home. We can't have a sick bride now can we?" he said, gently pulling Satine along and toward home. ************************** Satine and Christian were jolted from sleep at the same time, though in separate rooms. The recollection of their houseguests' presence dawned on the pair simultaneously. Christian�s head snapped to Toulouse�s bed, finding his roommate�s bed empty. Then a crash was heard from somewhere down stairs and both Satine and Christian jumped out of their beds. The two ran out of their rooms, dreading what they would find. Almost bumping into each other in the hall, they quickly ran to the staircase to Emily at the bottom. Then they noticed Toulouse charging toward them, his cane held out like a sword and wearing a little paper hat made of newspaper. Not noticing their presence he jumped onto the banister, his little feet straddling each side before sliding down the railing and to the ground at the bottom. The noise that woke Satine and Christian was the crash as the rider hit the ground at the bottom of the stairs. "I'm next! I'm next!" Emily shouted, taking the little hat off Toulouse's head and dropping it on her own. "Emily!" Christian exclaimed, "I would think you knew better! What is father going to say when he comes out here? And you know that he would with the noise you are making." "Don't be such a spoil sport, Christian. Father left for work almost an hour ago!" She ran up the stairs to where her brother stood, "Now�I know you want to try this." Holding the hat out she tried to tempt him but he did not take it. "Well I do!" Satine said grabbing the hat. "Satine! I-" Christian stuttered. "Oh, honestly Christian, learn to have a little fun." She laughed before lifting the skirt of her nightgown and daintily sitting on the railing. Emily laughed as Satine attempted to ride the banister "sidesaddle" and as much grace as she could manage. Falling to the bottom she immediately ran back up the stairs and to Christian. With a dazzling smile she took the hat off of her head and dropped it onto Christian's. "Your turn, darling." Christian's little boy smile lit up his face and he planted a kiss on Satine's cheek before taking his turn on the banister. *~* After breakfast Emily scurried upstairs for her lessons and Toulouse, Chocolat, and The Doctor left to 'plan a night of sin like London's never seen'. Babydoll then dragged Satine out the door, barely letting her kiss Christian good-bye. ~*~ That night everyone met up at the bar. Satine and Babydoll had been out all day looking for bridesmaids dresses, Toulouse, The Doctor, and Chocolat had been working hard to arrange Christian's bachelor party, and Emily had begun arranging Satine's party after she had finished her lessons. Christian, however, had been forced to be tour guide to The Argentinean and Satie as he showed them London. That night, the bohemians had been able to meet Madeline and Alex when they came in for a drink. Joining the group they began to poke fun at Satine and Christian, but mostly Christian. "Now Christian, are you sure you know what goes on between a husband and a wife?" The Doctor asked, skeptically. Christian, turning a little pink, looked at Satine before answering, "I think I have an idea." The Argentinean shook his head, �I think we need to help this boy!� Standing from his seat he began, The parts of a flower are so constructed that very, very often the wind will cause pollination. If not, than a bee or any other nectar gathering creature can create the same situation. Yes anything that gets the pollen to the piston's right on the list. I'll try to make it crystal clear. A flower's insatiable passion turns its life into a circus of debauchery. Now you see just how the stamen gets its lusty dust on to the stigma. And why this frenzy chlorophyll's orgy is no enigma. We call this quest for satisfaction a what class? He looked at everyone expectantly they shouted, A photoperiodic reaction. The Argentinean smiled, Oh that's good. Oh, that's very good! Toulouse looked up, clueless, Hey, I'm lost where are we? Emily rolled her eyes, laughing, Chapter 2 Satie nodded, Page 5 Then all the men, besides Christian and The Argentinean shouted, Reproduction The girls, except Satine joined in, Reproduction Babydoll giggled, Put your pollen tube to work The men said again, Reproduction And the girls echoed them, Reproduction Emily stood up on her chair, swaying her hips in a circle she said, Make my stamen go berserk Christian began coughing as he choked on his drink. While Satine patted him on the back, the men sang, Reproduction Maddy joined Em and stood on her own chair, I don't think they even know what a pistol is! Alex jumped up beside her, I've got your pistol right here Maddy fanged shock as Toulouse looked at everyone from his seat, questionably, Where does the pollen go? The Argentinean continued his lesson and everyone sat back down in their seats, In an abstract way the same thing applies to the reproduction organs of the more complex life forms but now we are dealing with sexual response. Are there any questions before we begin reading? Satie stood from his seat and scurried over to the Argentinean. Pulling on his collar and pretending to whisper, he sang, Is it possible the female member of some sex on a couch could like get this guy all hot and she never even knew it? Alex walked up to Satie and leaned against him, crossing his arms, When the warm blooded mammal in a tight little sweater starts pulls that stuff she's saying that she wants to do it. Satie looked at him, Yeah, but all they can do is say no, no, no, no, no Alex nodded and walked away as all the men sang, Reproduction The girls shouted, Reproduction, baby, give it to me now! The boys cheered, Reproduction The girls crossed their arms, defensively. Reproduction, is that all you think about? The boys cheered; Reproduction The girls stood up with their hands on their hips, Come on baby, show me that you really love me so. The Argentinean hunched over, Oh, I think I'm gunna throw up. Toulouse wanted to know, Were does the pollen go? The Argentinean, having quickly recovered, continued, The human is the only being capable of consciously controlling its number of spring. Are there any comments on this? Babydoll sauntered up to The Argentinean and a bit embarrassed asked Is it true that guys like you, ya know mature and all carry some protection with them - She suddenly belted out, for the entire bar to hear, for sexual occasions? Satie asked Babydoll from his seat, What's the big deal? Can't a girl just do that thing in a book where she adds up the days of her - oh what do you call it? Mental Stration? Em rolled her eyes, Oh yeah that's really neat. Maddy put her hands on her hips, Yeah, And what'll the guy say if the number's don't add up right? Huh? Then each girl shouted, Yeah, yeah, yeah! The men just shrugged their shoulders, Reproduction And the girls blew their comments off, Reproduction Em stood from her chair with a balloon under her dress, leaning back with her hand supporting her back she sang, Hope he's proud of that he's done, The boys all stood from their seats and backed away, still singing, Reproduction Em pulled the balloon out of her dress, Reproduction Alex pointed to Satie, He was only poking fun! The boys continued, Reproduction The Argentinean held out his hands, See what happens when a boy and girl don't know how to play it safe! The men sang, one last time, Reproduction The girls finished, Reproduction Just as Toulouse opened his mouth, Chocolat covered it with his hand and sang, in his ever deep voice, Where does the pollen go? **************** Satine sat nervously, beside Christian as they waited for the final group of guests to arrive for their wedding. Throughout the past week they had welcomed endless numbers of family and friends and as they sat at the train station one last time Satine was much more nervous than she had been before any other guests had arrived. The only reason that this particular guest would not arrive would be under their own recognizance. Harold Ziddler's train was supposedly arriving at any moment. Satine sat fidgeting with her engagement ring, through her white gloves, with her left hand and desperately clutching her patient fianc�'s had with her right. "Sacr� bleu, Christian, I don't think he's even coming! He probably hasn't forgiven me for leaving. It's all my fault that he lost the Moulin! Oh Christian, I feel terribly!" Releasing Satine's hand, only momentarily, before she desperately clutched his other, Christian put his arm reassuringly around her shoulders, pulling her close to him. "Shhh," he whispered in her ear, "Don't talk like that, darling. Worrying will do no good. I'm sure that Ziddler's coming. Trust me, darling, no one can resist you." Christian concluded, praying for his Diamond's sake, that he was right. Satine leaned over, capturing his lips with hers. Her mind went numb as warm and tingling sensations ran up and down her body. When Christian placed both of his hands, gently, on the small of her back she moaned softly into his mouth, sending a shiver through him. The whistle of a train, entering the station suddenly jerked the two apart. Satine brushed a hand over her cheeks, attempting to minimize the appearance of Christian's effect on her, and pulled out a compact from her handbag to check for anything out of place. Satisfied with her reflection Satine replaced the compact and turned to look over a beaming Christian. Laughing quietly Satine straightened his tie before pulling out her handkerchief and attempting to remove her lipstick from his smiling lips. "There," Satine said, "all better," not being able to resist, Satine brushed a quick kiss to his cheek and giggled at the lipstick she had managed to put on him, again. Wiping it away quickly, Satine began to look over the passengers exiting the train. Suddenly, without warning, a loud voice rang out, happily, "My little strawberry!" Satine whipped around, coming face to face with Harold Ziddler. ~*~ Christian sat at his typewriter patiently, waiting for inspiration to come. It didn't. When he and Satine had been forced apart, almost three-hour prior, he'd moped up to his room and sat down at his typewriter. And that is just where he had been sitting for three hours. He knew exactly what was missing: His Muse. His fingers itched to run themselves through her fiery hair. He tried to satisfy his itching fingers by running them through his own hair but they only turned numb. Angrily, Christian stood from his chair and walked over to the window. He couldn't believe he was having such a difficult time writing his own wedding vows! He loved Satine more than words could say. Maybe that was his problem. He leaned against the window frame, and turned his head to the door, where a sliver of light was shown from under the door. For the first time, Christian noticed voices laughing from downstairs. He made a quick decision and headed for the door. Walking down the stairs slowly, Christian realized that the voices were coming from the dining room. He walked in to a sight he had not expected. At the long, elegant table sat Satie, The Doctor, Chocolat and Babydoll, along with Christian's little sister. The Argentinean was passed out in the middle of the doorway and Christian had to step over his sleeping body as he walked in the room. "Em, what are you doing?" Christian asked suspiciously eyeing the playing cards and array of different currencies spread out on the table. "What does it look like, Chris? I'm beating the French at poker!" Emily giggled and pulled her large pile of winnings close to her for confirmation. "Want me to deal you in? I'd be more than happy to take a little money off your hands." Emily asked, smiling sweetly. Christian shook his head quickly, "That's ok Emmers. I think you've proven yourself the best gambler in the family on many occasion." Emily smiled proudly at her brother. Just at that moment The Argentinean shot up from his spot on the floor and looked over at Emily. "I thought you said you'd never played poker before!" his exclamation was quickly followed by a hiccup before he fell back to the floor, asleep. Emily looked around the table apprehensively, "Oops," she laughed nervously. Just at that moment Toulouse walked past Christian into the dining room with an unopened bottle of Absinthe in hand. As the dwarf began to pour the neon-green liquid into glasses Christian suddenly became very protective of his little sister. "Emmy, I don't think you should be drinking that!" but it was too late, In one gulp Em had downed the entire glass. Spontaneously, she burst out in laughter then began to sing. I feel pretty, Oh so pretty. I feel pretty and witty and bright, And I pity, Any girl who isn't me tonight. She stood up on her chair and looked out over the room. I feel charming, Oh so charming. It's alarming how charming I feel. And so pretty, That I hardly can believe I'm real. Em lifted up her dress suddenly and jumped off her chair before rushing to the mirror above the fireplace. See the pretty girl in that mirror there? Who can that attractive girl be? Such a pretty face. Such a pretty dress. Such a pretty smile. Such a pretty me! After admiring herself in the mirror she dragged Toulouse's little hands and began to dance around as he hobbled along with her. I feel stunning, And entrancing. Feel like running, And dancing for joy. When she had released Toulouse's hands she continued to dance by herself and Christian and the bohos began to sing. Have you met my good friend Emmy? The craziest girl on the block? You'll know her the minute you see her, She's the one who is in an advanced state of shock! Despite their words everyone followed Emily in dancing around the room. It must be the heat, Or some rare disease. Or too much to eat. Or maybe it's fleas. Everyone turned to Christian and began to run after him. Keep away from her, Send for Christian! This is not the Emmy we know, Modest and pure, Polite and refined, Well-bred and mature. And out of her mind! Babydoll ran up to Emily and grabbed her hand. Pulling some flowers out of a vase she handed them to Emily and helped the girl onto her chair once again. Miss America, Miss America, speech! Miss America, bravo, speech! Emily gave a small curtsy before signing. I feel pretty Oh so pretty That the city should give me its key A committee Should be organized to honor me Christian rushed towards her, terrified she might fall, as she began to spin around on her chair. I feel dizzy, I feel sunny. I feel fizzy and funny and fine. And so pretty, Miss America can just resign. See the pretty girl in that mirror there? Who can that attractive girl be? Such a pretty face Such a pretty dress Such a pretty smile Such a pretty me! Everyone joined with Emily as they sang. I feel stunning And entrancing Feel like running and dancing for joy! ~*~ Satine leaned back in the large tub, soaking her tired muscles. All her planning, all the waiting had finally come to an end. In only a few hours she and Christian would be married. Everything they had over come had only made them stronger: The Duke, escaping the underworld, Christian's father, and Philip. They had true love, a gift only one couple in a century was blessed with and it had been given to her! A lonely little French girl that had found some friends in the wrong part of town, and become the star of their little world. After all her sins she had been sent an angel. A vision of Christian's smiling face appeared in Satine's mind. Yes, he was her angel. Her handsome, sexy, loving, talented, wonderful; angel. Satine could feel his gentle hand brushing her hair off her shoulders, as he leaned down and placed one perfect kiss at the base of her neck. She moaned softly leaning into his lips. He ran his fingers from the sensitive spot, just behind her ear, to where his lips had just been. Placing a kiss on her shoulder he hovered so very close to her ear before whispering, "I love you." Jumping up slightly in the tub Satine swung around to see Christian standing behind her. His trousers were drenched from the water spilling out of the tub with her sudden movement. "Christian! What are you doing here? You're not supposed to see me!" Satine said in a loud whisper, laughing a bit. She did not wanting anyone to hear a commotion and come to take her Christian away. "I haven't seen you in hours! I missed you." He said kneeling on the floor in front of her, ignoring the puddle of water that had soaked his pants through even further. Satine softened considerably and put her arms on the side of the tub, resting her head on top of them. Her face mere inches away from Christian, she whispered, "I love you." He smiled handsomely, "I would hope so! We are after all getting married tomorrow." "I know," Satine said excitedly, "I can't wait! Wait 'till you see my dress! You won't believe it!" She added, reminding Christian of a little girl. "You'll be beautiful." He said gently, brushing a damp curl off the side of her face. Both stared into the other's eyes until each leaned into the other. Slowly, their lips met. Satine felt warm all over but shivered. Putting her wet arms around his neck she pulled him close to her. Christian put his arms around her tiny waist. They began to stand and Christian pulled Satine into his arms, lifting her out of the tub. Before Satine could protest, Christian had carried her to her bed and placed her, gently on it. "Christian," Satine breathed as he began to kiss his way down her neck. "Yes?" he asked pulling up to kiss her putting mouth. "We're getting married tomorrow, seeing me is bad luck. Just think what kind of bad luck this has to be." She said giggling. "Well darling, I disagree. I think it's good luck." Suddenly Christian pressed his lips against hers fiercely. She moaned into his mouth giving up all complaint. ~*~ Christian rushed through his bedroom door and quickly sat down at his typewriter. His muse had not failed to inspire him once again. ~*~ Satine was ripped from sleep by a jerking. Satine rolled over and slowly opened her eyes expecting to see Christian. Instead, she found Babydoll leaning over her. "Come on Satine, time to rise and shine. You're getting married today!" Babydoll went over to the windows and opened the draperies, blinding Satine with the early morning light. Satine put her hand to her head, not liking this form of a wake up call at all. It was drastically different from the gentle waking she usually received from Christian. Babydoll turned back to Satine and for the first time noticed a white bow tie on the floor. Walking over to it feigning curiosity she picked it up to show Satine. "Why, how did this get here? I don't have the faintest clue, because I know Christian wasn't allowed anywhere near you last night�I knew it! Satine you had The Argentinean in your bedroom last night, didn't you!" Babydoll laughed at Satine obviously sickened look. Changing the conversation, Babydoll continued, "I was just about to go wake Emily. I think Toulouse's made a new friend. He introduced Em to the green fairy last night, much to Christian's dismay, might I add. She's much like her brother when she's delusional though. It wasn't five minuets before she began singing." With that, Babydoll walked out the door and down to Emily's room. ~*~ After the girls had breakfast they rushed up to the third floor where Emily took her lessons. There the dresses had been laid out and the make-up had been hauled to. Marie began on Babydoll's hair while Satine helped a slightly hung over Emily with her make-up. The whole room was quiet until Satine began to sing quietly. Goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Emily, by then completely sober, added to her future sister-in-law's song. He really loves you, Satine smiled, And we're ganna get married. Emily giggled anticipating her own antics, Goin' to the chapel of love. Spring is here, The sky is blue. Birds all sing, As if they knew, Satine rolled her eyes and avoided looking out the window at the falling snow. Today's the day, We'll say I do. And we'll never be lonely anymore. Because we're, Goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Emily was sure to clarify. He really loves you, Satine was so excited she could barley hide her excitement. And we're ganna get married Goin' to the chapel of love. Emily sang sweetly, truly happy for her brother and Satine. Bells will ring, The sun will shine. Satine nodded in agreement. I'll be his and he'll be mine. We'll love until, The end of time, And we'll never be lonely anymore. Satine felt tears come to her eyes at the truth of her words. Brushing her fingers over her eyes quickly she continued. Because we�re goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Goin' to the chapel, And we're ganna get married. Emily couldn't help but once again add. He really loves you, Satine giggled while happily belting out the next verse. And we're ganna get married. Emily smiled at Satine as the two finished the song. Goin' to the chapel of love. Goin' to the chapel of love. Goin' to the chapel of love. They both broke into laughter. "Well, I think we're just�about�done." Satine said finally pulling back from applying Emily's make-up. "Thanks Satine. Do you have your vows finished?" Emily asked walking over to her desk and picking up Satine's pearl white shoes. "Yes, it took me forever but I think I have everything in it that I wanted to say. That was hard though. Christian has such a gift for putting his emotions into words. I know his vows will be perfect, I just didn't want mine to look insincere in comparison." "Oh Satine! As long as you are honest, Christian will love whatever you write." Emily assured picking up a piece of sandpaper and beginning to scuff the bottom of Satine's shoes. "Don't think about all of father's stuffy relatives that are going to be there. Believe me, whatever you say will be the most romantic thing they've ever heard." "I hope you're right Em. I'm still a little nervous though." ~*~ Satine waited, nervously, in a small Sunday school room pacing back and forth. Babydoll and Emily sat on little desks, watching her, their heads following her trek, back and forth, like a tennis game. "I don't understand why I'm so nervous," Satine muttered, never stopping her pacing. "I mean, I love Christian, more than anything in this world, and I've waited so long to marry him. I should be anxious to go in there. What's wrong with me?" "Nothing is wrong with you, sweat pea." Harold said, walking into the room. "It's ok to be nervous about making a big commitment." Satine finely stopped her pacing, slightly surprised that Harold was the one to comfort her. "I remember, I didn't sleep for a week before signing the papers to buy the Moulin." He looked wistfully, remembering his little den of nighttime pleasures. "I was so afraid that I wouldn't be about to live up her expectations. That I might fail to make her happy, or not be able to keep her beautiful. How could I ever shoulder this huge responsibility?" Still sitting on a miniature desk, Emily leaned over to Babydoll and asked quietly, "Is he still talking about the Moulin Rouge?" She asked skeptically. Babydoll simply nodded, never taking her eyes off the two in front of her. Satine, strangely enough, felt incredibly reassured by Harold 's words. Straightening herself up she smiled brightly and held out her arm, to take Harold 's. "Thank you, I'm ready now." "Ok," Emily said jumping suddenly from the desk she was perched on, "You have your handkerchief?" Satine held it out as proof of its attendance. "You know you're vows?" Satine nodded confidently, "You wearing your shoes?" Satine gave her future sister-in-law a strange look before nodding her head, "Good," Emily said pulling up her dress, "Because I don't have mine." Emily ran over to where she had been sitting and quickly put her shoes on. "There," She said straitening herself up, "Come on Satine, let's go get yourself hitched." ************ Christian stood at the front of the church with his Best Man, Toulouse, next to him. As the music started he sucked in his breath in anticipation. First through the door was Babydoll on the arm of Christian's best friend of all the English bohemians, Noah. Christian couldn't help but smile when he saw his little sister walk in as maid-of-honor. As the music changed and everyone in the greatly unproportioned congregation stood, Christian's knees began to shake slightly. When he saw her walk down the isle he could have sworn he was dreaming. Never in real-life could an angel this beautiful be on earth but she was, and she was walking to him. When she finally reached the front of the church she stood before him. Even through her lace vale he still found himself lost in her gaze. When the priest began to speak Satine and Christian reluctantly focused their attention on him. "We are gathered here together, in the face of God to bring these two people together in holy matrimony. Who gives this woman to this man?" Chocolat quickly stood up just a bit straighter before answering "I do." He then lifted her vale and kissed her cheek before sitting down in the front pew. "You're wearing the wedding dress from the play." Christian whispered, astonished. Satine smiled at him, "I was hoping you'd notice. I wasn't sure if you'd been paying enough attention to any of my fittings to remember. Christian squeezed her hand softly, "I can never take my eyes off of you Satine. I remember every detail of every moment we've ever spent together. As the priest began to read from the scriptures and said a few prayers, Satine and Christian simply lost them selves in looking at each other, occasionally whispering something to the other until the priest's watchful eye silenced them. "Christian and Satine have written their own vows and wish to share them. Christian," Christian turned to Satine with an innocent smile on his face. Smiling at her he turned and looked over the congregation nervously. Turning back to her he began to sing to her sweetly. You'll never know, What you've done for me. What your faith in me, Has done for my soul. You'll never know the gift you've given me, I'll carry it with me. Yeah, yeah. Satine looked down for only a moment before locking her eyes with his again. There was no one but them. Christian's entire family had disappeared, along with all of their bohemian friends and the priest. Through the days ahead, I'll think of days before. You made me hope for something better, And made me reach for something more. Christian was acting completely on impulse when he reached up to run his fingers down her cheek. Satine leaned into his hand slightly the smile on her face growing. You taught me to run, You taught me to fly. Helped me to free the me inside, Helped me hear the music of my heart. She was his muse, he had always had a gift but Satine had shown him just how precious it was and just how much he could really do with it. He could now put all of his feelings down on paper and make others feel the same emotions. You opened my eyes, You opened the door, To something I'd never known before. And your love, Is the music of my heart. She was his gift, much more important than any talent. She was the true gift he had been granted and he held her most dear. You were the song that always made me sing. I'm singing this for you. Everywhere I go I'll think of where I've been, And know the one who knew me better than anyone ever will again. His life was a song, one beautiful love song that could be stuck in his head for the rest of his life and he'd never tire of. He was trying to tell her in his very special way, exactly how important she was to him, and express how grateful he was for the gift she had given him; a gift of true understanding. He didn't have to say a single word for her to completely understand him. They were one soul. What you taught me, Only your love could ever teach me. You got through when no one could reach me, 'Cause you always saw in me, All the best that I could be. It was you who set me free, She saw him as her savior, he had taken her by the hand and right out of the underworld she had existed in without him but he would do it a thousand times. She had not been the only one reborn when she left the gritty, city of lights, he had become a new person just from watching her grow. You taught me to run, You taught me to fly. Helped me to free the me inside, Helped me hear the music of my heart. Yeah, You opened my eyes, You opened the door, To something I'd never known before. And your love, Is the music of my heart. She was his song and that song was for her. Satine had tears in her eyes as she leaned into Christian's arms. "I love you" she whispered into his ear, so only he could hear. Stepping back after a moment, Satine Smiled brightly before beginning her vows. I do, I do, I do, I do. All I am, all I'll be, Everything in this world, All that I'll ever need, Is in your eyes, Shining at me. Satine looked at his bright eyes. She could swear that they changed color with his emotions, they were a bright green when passionate, a light gray-green, when he was romantic, and a deep, dark gray when he was upset or angry, and almost blue when he was sad. Satine could tell just by looking in his eyes at that moment that he was happy and deeply romantic. When you smile I can feel, All my passion unfolding. Your hand brushes mine, And a thousand sensations, Seduce me 'cause I, I do cherish you. She had been with so many lovers before Christian but never had any one of them been able to touch her in the way that he did; not physically, but gently, deep down to her soul: in her heart. For the rest of my life, You don't have to think twice, I will love you still, From the depths of my soul, It's beyond my control. She couldn't stop loving him if she'd wanted to. She had loved him all her life, even before she'd met him and she would love him for the rest of it. I've waited so long to say this to you, If you're asking do I love you this much; I do. Christian had a true gift with words and he was fortunate to be able to put into words every emotion he'd ever felt but Satine had worked so long to find the words to tell him how much she loved him. She truly cherished him. In my world, before you, I lived outside my emotions, Didn't know where I was going, 'Til that day, I found you. How you opened my life, To a new paradise. Before Christian she had hidden behind her acting abilities, never letting anyone get too close to her, no one could love the real her. I've waited so long to say this to you, If you're asking do I love you this much, Yes I do, I do. If you're asking do I love you this much, Baby I do, cherish you. From the depths of my soul, It's beyond my control. Sometimes, she was scared of her own love. It frightened her that she could have such strong emotions for someone. What if she lost him? How could she ever live? Then she would look into Christian's eyes and realize that his emotions were just as strong. He could never leave her either. I've waited so long to say this to you. If you're asking me do I love you this much, Baby, I do. I do. Christian brushed the tears off Satine's cheeks, her handkerchief long since forgotten. He pulled her into his arms again and kissed the top of her head, "That was beautiful, darling." After recovering from their own love scene, the two turned to the old priest. The man stepped back to his place and smiled at the young couple. "Do you Christian, take thee Satine, to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in heath, for as long as you both shall live?" Christian turned to look directly into his love's eyes, "I do." He said without hesitation. Satine smiled brightly as a tear ran down her cheek. She turned to the priest, waiting for her line. "Do you Satine, take thee Christian to be your lawfully wedded husband? To have and to hold, in sickness and in heath, for as long as you both shall live?" Satine took a deep breath before turning back to Christian. She held back a giggle when she noticed Christian's face, suddenly very tense, waiting for her answer. "I do," She whispered, "come what may." Christian let out, in a rush, the breath he's been holding. The priest nodded slightly in approval. "May I have the rings, please?" Toulouse reached deep into one of his pockets and pulled out the glistening piece of white gold. Satine had wanted a white gold ring to match the band on her engagement ring, and Christian had agreed to just have matching bands of white gold made. The priest bent down, a little, so Toulouse could place Satine's ring on the bible. As the priest began to turn to Emily, Toulouse quickly reached for the ring again, pulling a piece of lint off of it. The priest turned back to Emily and waited patently for her to remember her part. "Oh," she exclaimed quietly, handing her bouquet to Babydoll. She pulled open her little satchel bag and reached deep inside in search of her brother's ring. "Oh, shit" she said a bit too loud. Err, um� sorry up there." she stumbled, looking up at the ceiling. She desperately patted her sides, as if she could made pockets appear there. Biting her bottom lip and trying not to look at all of the expectant faces around her, she looked all around for the ring. Finally she noticed a glint on one of her fingers. Looking at her hand she pulled the wedding band off her thumb and hastily handed it to the priest. Emily laughed, nervously, "Put it there so I wouldn't lose it," she whispered to the rest of the wedding party. "These rings are never ending and symbolize the promises Satine and Christian have made today in the presence of God and their families. Christian," The priest offered him Satine's ring. Gently lifting her hand Christian took the ring from the priest and slid it on her finger, "With this ring, I thee wed." When the ring had found its place, safely on Satine's finger, Christian lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it. "Satine," the priest prompted. Satine took Christian's hand in her own and slid his ring on. "With this ring, I thee wed." "If anyone has just cause why these two should not be joined in holy matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace." When no one answered he continued, "Then by the power vested in me by The Father and her Royal Highness Queen: I now pronounce you, husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Christian wasted no time in pulling Satine close and crushing his lips to hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck and he pulled her even closer by putting his hands on the small of her back. They were married. They were husband and wife. * " Head Over Feet" is performed by Alanis Morissette *The song "Reproduction" is from the movie "Grease 2" * "Goin' To The Chapel" is performed by The Shirlies. * "I Fell Pretty" is from the musical/movie "West Side Story" * "Music of My Heart" is performed by N*Sync and Gloria Estefan * "I Do (Cherish You)" is performed by 98* |