Race for the Throne

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Iverson walks over with a box in hand. “I had it polished and cleaned last night. Vincent, I hope you wear this proudly as much as you love my daughter.”

Serena walks over to Vincent. She puts an arm around him and smiles. “I know he will.” She said.

Junaluska pops up with Reginald. “Here he is.” She said smiling.

Lucas was running from the little girl who was the flower girl. “Nooo…Don’t touch me!” he said. The little girl who was just a year younger then Lucas was blowing kisses at him.

“But I wanna kissy you!” she said.

Serena started laughing. “Come here you two, we are going to practice for the wedding.

Everyone claps their hands and cheers for Serena and Vincent. She looks at him with mock horror. "You mean all those times playing king of the hill and you let me win?" She smiles at him and takes his hand. "I'm kind of glad you let me win." She said squeezing his hand.

Iverson stands up and raises his glass. "To a wonderful pair. Serena makes Vincent a better man and Vincent makes Serena a better woman. They compliment each other well and I pray their lives are full of love and happiness." With that dinner starts.

There is much talk going around about Nathaniel and Levi. Though the main focus is on Serena and Vincent. Dinner is a leisurely affair.

When the dinner is over, the announcer comes in over the speaker. "If I could have the bride and her father to come out here for a dance please." He said.

Serena looks up at her father as he offers her his arm. They head out to the dance floor as the band begins to play. Iverson bows to her and offers her his hand.

"Dad...thank you for letting us get married. I love Vincent so much and I am so happy to spend the rest of our lives together." She said as they started to dance.

"As long as my sweet little girl is happy, that is all that matters to me." He said as they danced.

Berenson was sitting at the corner of the table. He had watched Levi and Nathaniel kiss. He was embarrassed and hurt but at the same time happy for his son. He tried to forget about it as he watched Serena and Iverson dance.

After their song is through Vincent takes Samantha on the dance floor. "I am so proud of you Vincent. Not only have you given me a daughter, but you have handled all of the added stress with ease."

"I wish I can tell you it was easy. If it hadn't been for Serena, I would have broken down." Vincent admits to her.

"That is what relationships are all about give and take. Not to say you guys won't have arguments, but knowing how to argue." Samantha tells him.

Their dance ends. "Now let's get everyone to join in." They play one more slow song. All of the couples are dancing including Nathaniel and Levi. The couples sway along enjoying their dances. Nathaniel smiles at Levi happy that he is being so bold around everyone.

The song ends and the dance floor begins to clear. Nathaniel takes a deep breath and drops to his knee. He digs in his pocket and fishes out a ring. It is a carved wooden ring. "Levi, I cannot express the happiness that you bring me. For the first time I feel comfortable in my own skin. Will you....Will you marry me?"

Jasmine's hands go to her mouth. She is happy for her brother and for Levi. It is true what Nathaniel said to him. She has never seen him so happy.

Vincent does not know how to feel. He can see that Nathaniel is happy, but cannot help but be worried for them. It is not a relationship that is readily accepted.

Serena is happy for Nathaniel And Levi. She claps for them before turning to Vincent. "They will make a great couple. I am so happy for them. "

Berenson looks at his son. There is something that breaks in his heart as he watch's his son. He isn't quite sure how to feel. He looks at Madeline pleadingly almost. He hurts but at the same time it is his son. No matter what, he will always love him.

Levi's parents aren't far off. They see Nathaniel asking tltheir so called son to marry him. They are indeed offended.

Levi looks at Nathaniel with a surprised expression on his face. He looks at him and then covers his mouth as he begins to cry. "Yes...yes I will marry you." He said between tears. Nathaniel puts the ring on his finger and Levi kisses him romantically

King Ferdinand and his wife come up to Serena and Vincent. Brandon is busy holding Jasmine but claps upon seeing the engagement. Jasmine and Brandon are close to Serena and Vincent.

"I think it his is preposterous! Please have the two of those..those..things to leave at once. We are offended by their presence."

Jasmine gets tears in her own eyes when Levi says yes. Although it is nearly destroyed when she hears Levi's former parents. Her eyes narrow to slits as she makes to confront them.

Brandon sees Jasmine's expression. He takes her hand and pulls her to him. "Jasmine, let Vincent and Serena handle this. THey know Levi and Nathaniel have the right to be here and to be happy. Please don't ruin this moment for them or your brother." He pleads.

Jasmine turns to him, her anger still evident in her eyes. "How dare they? First they disown him, and then they still try to push him around. Why should they even care?"

Vincent smiles at King Ferindad. He notices Jasmine fuming out of the corner of his eye. "Your Majesty, with all due respect, this is our wedding. We invite whom we want to invite. I hope you do not expect for me to force my best man and now my cousin to leave. May I suggest that if their actions offend you so, that you leave."

Madeline hugs Berenson the best she can. "Our son is getting married. Now I know you may not agree with the lifestyle, but look at him closely. See how happy he is. I have never seen him so relaxed around anyone else." She sees King Fernidad confront Serena and Vincent. "And you don't want to be a moron like that."

Serena smiles at the royal couple. "I believe my husband is right. We invited them here personally and even though not all people agree about their relationship, we believe they have the right to choose who they love. If they are in love, let them be happy. " Serena said. "Now if you please excuse us, I would like to congratulate the new royal couple."

Iverson was near by and walked over to king Ferdinand and his wife. "I believe my son and daughter have spoken their peace. Now you can accept what they say, or leave..." Iverson whispered to them.

Brandon hugs Jasmine. "Everything will be alright, see." He said. He kisses her. He sees Lorene and Prescott dancing close to one another. "Want to bet she's not a virgin after tonight?" He winked at her to indicate he was kidding.

Berenson sighs and nods his head. He holds Madeline the best he can and looks at her. "I don't know how to explain how I feel. I hurt and I'm sad but I am happy for him. No matter what, he will always be my son."

"That would be moving a bit fast don't you think?" She looks over at the couple.

Jasmine takes a deep breath and smiles. She goes over to the new couple and gives them both a hug. "You have to excuse my hug if it is not tight Levi, it is my weak arm. Ohh congrats you too."

"You aren't mad?" Nathaniel asks her.

"Not at you, rather two idiots who tried to force you guys to leave." Jasmine explains. "Let me see the ring." Levi holds it up to her. "Wow that is beautiful. I love the jewels in it and the wood will last forever." Jasmine whispers in Nathaniel's ear. "You will have to tell me where you got it."

Vincent brings Serena over. "Congratulations you two. That was a pleasant surprise. I didn't even know you were thinking about marriage."

Nathaniel takes shakes Vincent's hand. "I hope you aren't upset. I had the ring on me forever and now was the perfect time."

Vincent laughs. "You don't have to explain it to me. I know exactly how that goes."

Thomas sneaks up on Levi and pick him up in a bear hug. "Welcome to the family man."

Daniel is scratching him head. "Does dat mean I am going to have anotew bwothew?"

"Let's go congratulate the couple. I can't believe my baby's getting married." Madeline begins to cry.

Serena hugs Nathaniel and Levi. "Congratulations guys. I am happy for you. Levi I believe that was your parents that were just escorted out. They...were not to thrilled about your engagement and so we asked then to leave."

Iverson walks over and shakes Nathaniel and levi 's hand. "Congratulations guys I wish you well on your future. Remind me...I have tackling on gay rights here next." He then walks away from the group. He has a duty to perform.

Lorene walks over with Prescott. He has his arm around her. "Congratulations guys. I am happy that you both are happy." She said.

Serena looks up as the band starts a song. "Come on guys! Its a group dance song." She said. They scurry to the floor and Serena has one heck of a time dancing In her dress.

"Actually we didn't tell them to leave, simply suggested that if they were uncomfortable then they can leave." Vincent corrects.

There are some people who do leave after the engagement is announced. The people who stay are having a blast though.

Serena is not the only one having difficulties dancing in the dress. Jasmine's movements are hindered in the dress as well. But she loves the group she is in.

After the dance Jasmine needs to sit down. King Sebastian sits down with them. "I never did get to apologize for my son's actions at the Summer Solstice."

Jasmine laughs. "Majesty thank you for the apology, but I think it was a lesson learned for your son."

Sebastian smirks. "Like not to mess with a pregnant woman." He looks out on the dance floor. "He does look happy with Lorene."

"Lorene is happy. I know that arranged marriages are a part of royal life, but I know she is happy to have the chance to know Prescott a little." Jasmine explains.

Sebastian listens to Jasmine. "You are wise beyond your years." He studies her. "You will make a good Queen. Lawrence made a good choice." He takes a napkin from the table and pours some water on it. He then pats it on Jasmine's shoulder.

Her eyes open widely. "Your majesty, that is my scar. You can scrub all you want, but it will not go away."

Sebastian's cheeks flush. "My apologies, Princess. It is barely noticeable."

Jasmine stands. "I am going to see what is taking Brandon so long. It was nice to talk to you." She walks away and goes to the side. Her hand goes to her shoulder.

Serena looks at Vincent when the song is over. “I think I need a moment to sit down. That was hard to do in this dress.”

Vincent takes her over to a seat and she takes a moment to sit down. She looks up as Audra and Malachi walk over. “I wish you could feel the baby move. He is jamming to the music right now.” Audra said chuckling. She had her hand over her stomach rubbing it gently.

“Awww that is adorable.” Serena said. “I hope the goddess blesses us with children someday, but right now I am alright spending time with my husband and being held by him.” She said smiling.

Brandon had gone to get himself and Jasmine something to drink. He is looking for her and doesn’t see her. He walks over towards Nathaniel who is talking with a few other people as they congratulate him on his engagement with Levi. “Do you know where Jasmine went? I can’t find her.” He said.

Nathaniel looks up and smiles. “Gentlemen if you will give me just a moment.” He takes a few steps away with Brandon. “She is feeling a little awkward or something is bothering her. I’m not quite sure but I know she is upset about something. It’s not bad, but it’s not good either.” He said. ”I did see her talking to King Sebastian a few minutes ago, you might try him.”

“Thank you Nathaniel.” Brandon said. He walks around towards King Sebastian when he sees Jasmine standing near a door that leads outside to a fountain. He walks over to her.

“What is the matter sweetheart? What is on your mind?” Brandon asked.

Jasmine turns her head to look at Brandon. "I am fine, I just needed some air. King Sebastian officially apologized for Prescott's behavior." Her hand is in her scar.

~~~~~~~

"So Malachai have you felt the baby move?" Vincent asks.

Malachai nods. "Just before we came here for your wedding. I was lying with Audra in bed. Man, let me tell you it was an unbelievable feeling."

Brandon takes Jasmine’s hand that is on her scar. He has her drink in his other hand. He pulls her outside where the fountain is flowing. “Jasmine, tell me what is really bothering you. I don’t doubt that King Sebastian apologized to you, but something else is bothering you… say like your scar.” He said offering her the punch.

~~

“That must be amazing. I am happy for the two of you.” Serena said. She smiles at them before looking around. “I am glad that all of us are happy in our relationships. You are happily married, I am happily married and now Nathaniel is getting married. I am surprised that Brandon hasn't asked Jasmine to marry her yet.”

"Well when he was talking to me, he tried to 'clean' my scar." Jasmine takes the punch. "I laughed it off, but I guess it bothered me a little. Damn it is cold out here."

~~~~~~

"Well Brandon is still getting used to everything. Besides Nathaniel is older." Vincent explains. "Jasmine likes to take thing slower."

Brandon takes his jacket off, leaving him in the vest and shirt and puts it over Jasmine’s shoulder. “Is that better?” he asked. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her neck softly. “Everything will be alright Jasmine. It was an accident. He must have thought you had some makeup or something on your shoulder. That is better than someone pointing out point blank, hey look at that scar.” He said. “It means no one hardly noticed it at all.”

~~

“Could have fooled me last night.” Audra said. She then covered her mouth. “Please, forget I said that.”

Serena chuckled at her sister. “Don’t worry, things happen in time. When he is ready, he will ask her.”

Vincent raises his eyebrow. "Do I even want to know about last night? I know that the guys had fun, but Iverson and Brandon went back to the castle."

~~~~~

"He was the first one to notice it. I guess I can be happy about that. Come let's go back inside. I still need to dance with you."

“Jasmine went missing sometime over night but the three of us were drunk.” Serena explained.

“You mean the three of you were drunk, that did not include me. Lorene, Serena and Jasmine were all drunk. I came in and Jasmine was gone. She came in the room a few minutes later and was showered and already dressed.” Audra said.

“Well I had a good time, it was very relaxing.” Serena said with a smile.

~~

Brandon takes Jasmine back inside and she finishes her drink. A slow song comes on and He offers her his hand. “Care to dance with me?” he asked.

"Well maybe she wasn't as bad as you though she was?" Vincent offers. "If she was showered and dressed, then I doubt if anything happened."

Nathaniel and Levi joined them at the table. "When are you guys going to head out? I am surprised you are still here."

"I agree what are you guys still doing here?" Malachai adds teasingly.

~~~~~~~

"I would love to dance with you." Jasmine takes his hand. They go out on the dance floor and she lets him lead. "I cannot believe Nathaniel is engaged. That means another wedding to plan. I wonder when they are going to get married." She cannot help but be a little angry. Now she will have to wait to ask Brandon. "Man, what I wouldn't do for a little vacation. A break from everyone. I would offer the beach house, but I don't want to disturb the royal couple."

Brandon can see the swirl of emotions in Jasmine's eyes. He had wanted to wait to tell her about the trip till morning but now was a good a time as ever. "Jasmine, I was going to surprise you in the morning but now is the better time. Remember how we talked about going to see my family? Well both Lawrence and Junaluska agreed that we could go after the wedding." He said.

~~

Serena smiled at the guys. "I have a whole week to spend with my husband. I probably won't be able to walk when I get back."

Nathaniel busts out laughing. "Delaying the inevitable then? He asked.

"Not that I'm not in the mood...I would love to be alone with Vincent right now. Should we pull an Audra and Malachi? Or should we wait on that lovely pair to finish dancing and then pull an Audra and Malachi?"

Jasmine's face lites up. "Really? Wow that is wonderful. A little vacation, just you and I. I wonder if we will have guards as well? I get to meet your family." She swallows hard and is surprisenly nervous. What if they don't like her? What if they want him to stay with them? "Is this what you went through when you met my family?"

~~~~~~~~

"Don't worry you will be able to walk by the time we get back." Vincent winks. "It will be nice to have a break from everything and everyone. No offense, but it has been crazy. I vote we wait until the dance is over. Since they are still here."

"Well I hope you guys are out for our wedding. I am thinking of having it during the spring time. That will give us some time to get everything in order." Nathaniel tells them holding Levi's hand.

Brandon smiles at Jasmine. "Yes...but it isn't so bad. You will be meeting the only three relatives I have left. I only had to meet your family and my family all at the same time. " he winks at her. "Don't worry, every thing will be alright. I will take care of you." He promises.

Serena takes Vincent's hand and smiles. She squeezed it. "Believe me I know." She said. "But now we can relax before settling in to our new life together. I am excited about a little R and R."

Vincent brings Serena's hand to his mouth and kisses it. "I still am in shock that the Lanes gave us their house. We will have to do something special for them."

The song ends and Jasmine takes Brandon to the table. She looks around for Lorene and Prescott, but neither can be found. "So is this where all the couples are hanging out?"

"All the married and soon to be married at least." Nathaniel winks. "Feeling better?"

"Brandon always knows how to make me feel better." Jasmine rests her head on his shoulder. "So when do we get to see the two of you off?"

"How about right now? Ladies grab your capes and meet us at the carriage house." Vincent stands and bows to Serena. "May I escort you Mrs. Watson?"

Serena curtsied to Vincent and smiled. "Please do Mr. Watson. I would be happy for your escort." She took his hand and waited for the others.

Audra and Jasmine get their capes and walk out to the carriage. Serena immediately begins to laugh. Brandon looks at Serena before looking at the carriage. He too begins to laugh.

Lorene and Prescott were at the carriage getting it ready for their send off. "No fair! You guys are a little early."

Prescott hops down off the back and smiles. He had put a white flag with gold lettering that read newlyweds. On the back of the carriage was cans and bows tied to the back in long lines.

"We wanted to make sure you had a great send off." Prescott said.

Jasmine sees what Prescott and Lorene were doing. "You should have gotten us we would have helped."

"Then it would have been suspicious that something was up." Prescott counters. "Us disappearing went unnoticed."

Nathaniel smirks. "I wouldn't say that, but this is more innocent than what most people were thinking."

Lorene's face pales and she looks at Prescott. "My mother is going to kill me."

Jasmine shakes her head. "Just tell her what you were really doing, and I will vouch for you if needed."

Vincent takes Serena's hand. "Are you ready to go on our honeymoon, my love?"

"You guys have lots of fun and don't forget the sunscreen. Sunburns on your ass really hurt." Jasmine tells them. She goes over to and gives the couple hug.

"And don't forget to read that book Aunt Madeline gave you." Audra laughs. The rest of the girls join in.

"Do I even want to know what that is about?" Nathaniel asks. Jasmine leans over and whispers in his ear. "Well that was a thoughtful gift. Maybe Serena is right about not being able to walk after all."

Vincent helps her into the carriage. She is laughing at Jasmine and the other girls. She looks at Vincent as he sits beside of her. "I can't believe its done. What felt like forever was over in just a short time. We are married Vincent... And I am yours forever." The carriage takes off and she hugs him before kissing him.

Brandon looked at Audra as she yawns. "Looks like someone is tired."

"I never had a nap today and its been one continual day. I am happy for them though. Malachi, will you take me to bed?" She asked as she rubbed her eyes.

Brandon had his arm around Jasmine. He smiles at her. " so are you ready for an early night sense we are leaving tomorrow? "

"Where are you going? I thought Junaluska and Lawrence were staying for another two nights before heading back." Nathaniel said.

Malachai kisses Audra. His hand rubs her stomach. "I will put both of you to bed."

Lorene waves as the carriage takes off. "I better check in with mom as well. I hope she doesn't think I was being naughty."

"Brandon is taking me to meet his family. Although I think I will have it easier than he did." Jasmine laughs. "I still have to pack." She looks at Brandon. "Where exactly are we going?"

Levi laughs. "I think any other family is easier to meet than yours. Berenson alone is intimidating. I just can't believe the stuff he did."

~~~

Vincent nuzzles Serena's neck. "I know we won't get too far today, but just the fact that we are alone is perfect. Goddess you are beautiful in that dress. It makes your eyes sparkle.

"You don't have to worry about packing. I asked your mother to do it so I could surprise you." Brandon said. "It is packed and already put on the top of the carriage. To be honest I'm not sure if its still Rosario or Altier. Its very closely to the border."

Brandon watched as Prescott and Lorene went back inside for her to check in with her parents. Audra then goes upstairs with Malachi to get some rest. He looks back at Jasmine and smiles. "So now it's just you and me. What do you want to do?"

~~

Serena is enjoying the nuzzling from Vincent. "My mother designed the dress and Jonathan made it. I fell in love with it. I'm glad you like it." Serena said. She felt as if she was purring as he loved on her. "We will get to the beach tomorrow late afternoon but tonight it is the bed and breakfast. Too be honest I can't wait till we get there. By the way those colors on you are remarkable. I love the way you look in your suit."