Chapter 26 - Konstantin

Standing before the mirror, fastening my tie, I grinned. Today was the day. Then I heard a knock at the door. Glancing back, I wondered who it could be. "Come in."

Mila, Piotr, and Leon all came barging through the door. "Now, don't you look fine. The color really suits you," Mila said, grinning.

Looking back to the mirror, I nodded. Leon came to stand beside me, scanning my reflection. "Calm down, bro; before you know it, the day will have passed us by," she said, bumping me lightly.

Turning to him, I pushed back softly as I spoke. "I am calm, man. Smooth as a cucumber, stop stressing about me." I was a wreck inside, but I wasn't about to admit that to them. It felt as if I might faint. My skin was cold and clammy. Looking down, I was sure my legs were shaking, but they appeared normal.

Mila and Leon each hugged me before leaving. "It's time," Piotr said as they disappeared. Piotr walked with me to the front of the ceremony. Ashan had arranged for us to use the stretch of beach where we ended our date night. I knew if Dahlia could choose any place in the world, this would be it.

With her wanting a simple wedding, I decided to take control and surprise her. I knew that, traditionally, most women did all the planning. But Dahlia didn't seem interested in doing so. When I offered to do it, she welcomed the suggestion.

I noticed more guests arriving while standing in the sand at the front. Next to me was Piotr, Leon, and the priest. They sat down at the back. I couldn't make out who they were at first.

The music started playing, and everyone rose. Dahlia came towards me on Mila's arm. I noticed their reactions to the latecomers as they reached the last row. Dahlia's face lit up, and Mila's was filled with confusion and surprise.

It could only mean that the Dubow's had come even though they never replied to the invitation. This realization made me slightly uncomfortable. Yet, I was relieved that they showed for Dahlia's sake. She was clearly delighted by the sight of them.

Watching her walk toward me, I froze. It felt like time and space had stopped. My heart started pounding so hard my chest felt like it was going to implode. I battled to catch my breath. I wanted to run to her and sweep her off her feet. I wanted to take her in my arms and disappear together.

She was an angel gliding towards me. A light brighter than any sun could ever be. Drooling like a puppy, my mind flooded with delight, knowing she was mine. Her hair was braided into a bun, but a couple of loose strands framed her sensational face. The make-up was natural-looking, clean, and professional.

The emerald-green eye shadow used made her hazel eyes glisten golden. Even without any jewelry, she was a vision. As she approached, the stunning pure white with a hint of pearl mermaid dress flared out, catching my attention. It fitted her like a glove, showing every sensational curve.

Her shoulders and neck were exposed. The diamond-shaped body of the dress framed her perfectly. The tail dragged about a meter behind her. In her hand, she held a bouquet of white roses with hints of ivory mixed in. I was so lost in her beauty that I didn't realize she was standing right in front of me.

Feeling her touching my hand ripped me from my thoughts. I squeezed her hands as I smiled. "You are gorgeous," I whispered.

"Konstantin, are you okay?" she asked, sounding faintly frightened.

"Oh, yes, sugar. Your beauty has entranced me." I said, leaning in and kissing her cheek.

Clearing his throat, the priest drew our attention. I barely heard anything he said as I could not keep my eyes from Dahlia and my mind focused. Whenever Dahlia squeezed my hands, I replied, "I do." The ceremony went quicker than I thought it would.

As the priest started saying, "I now pronounce," I had wrapped my arms around her and was kissing her passionately. I never wanted to let her go again; I wanted to keep her in my embrace for eternity.

No matter how many times we had kissed before, it still felt like fireworks were going off between us. We melted into one, and everything around us vanished. As we pulled apart, gasping for air, the people rose and started clapping.

Glancing around, I realized the ceremony was done. Taking her hand, we turned to our family and friends. "We're married!" I shouted.

Dahlia giggled beside me. Glancing at her, she smiled and shook her head. I winked and picked her up into my arms. Carrying her, I walked back through the people to the reception area.

The beach was decorated with palms and other plants to simulate an oasis of sorts. Instead of tables, picnic blankets, and baskets were placed around the area. Our spot had two loungers covered in pillows and rose petals. Lowering her to one, I kissed her cheek. "I'll be right back, sugar," I said before heading to the bar.

I collected our drinks and headed back to my angel. As I moved, my eye caught the Dubow family heading her way. Putting a trot in my step, I hurried back. I made it just before they got there. After everything, I wasn't going to allow them time alone with my bride.

Dahlia's brother Aleksandr stepped forward and held out his hand. As I shook it, he spoke. "Congratulations on the marriage." I was flabbergasted and struggled to find my words.

He stepped over to Dahlia and kissed her cheek. "I'm so glad you found happiness," he said. The other siblings followed suit. As they congratulated us, I noticed Leon and Mila heading our way. All the activities surely caught their attention.

Standing beside her, I squeezed her shoulder. "Thank you for coming; I know it means a lot to Dahlia," I said.

Aleksandr glanced at the family around him as he cleared his throat. "Well, seeing that we are now all family," he started. "Why don't we create an alliance for Dahlia's sake? What do you say?"

Before I could even consider his words, I felt a hand on my shoulder. My mind was still trying to absorb what he was saying as he continued. "We can make this work for both families."

I understood that he truly cared for her. But this wasn't a decision I could make alone. It was indeed a family matter. Aleksandr pulled back as Mila and Leon moved to my sides. Looking past him, I saw Piotr was assessing our situation. Waving at him, I showed him to come closer.

"We'll give you a second," Aleksandr said. Holding out his hand to Dahlia, I nodded, and she took it. She walked with them to the bar.

I wanted to shake his hand and accept his offer. If not for Mila and Leon at my sides, I probably would have without thinking twice. But I knew it was not only my decision to make. Piotr joined us looking at me with wide eyes, expecting me to tell him something.

My mind was still wrapped around the fact that I hadn't just accepted it there and then. Mila quickly filled Piot in on our conversation. He looked back at the family crowding the bar. "For Dahlia, I think we can make an exception," he said.

"Agreed," Mila chipped in. I was surprised at her quick response but appreciated the support.

Lunging forward, I embraced him in a manly hug. "Thank you, I will make sure things run smoothly," I said, stepping back.

"We must be wary of what we share until we know more," Piotr added.

We all agreed that each of us would spend time with them and assess their intentions. "Now, for heaven's sake, can we enjoy the wedding?" I asked, heading to the bar. I didn't wait for a response. I only wanted to be with my bride.

Walking up to Dhalia, I hugged her tightly. "Want to cut the cake?" I asked, turning her to see the cake being brought in. I waited until they placed the three-tier cake on the stand between the blankets before guiding Dahlia to it.

We held the knife together as we cut a big piece of cake. Placing it on a plate, we fed each other a bit. Dahlia went first and smashed the piece into the side of my mouth. She giggled as everyone laughed.

"Is that how it works?" I asked lightly. Picking up the remaining piece from the plate, I softly pressed it into her face. I avoided her eyes but caught her nose, cheeks, and chin. We laughed as we licked each other's faces. After visiting the bathroom and cleaning ourselves, we had a round of drinks with each family.

We saw Mila and Aleksandr having a drink at the bar. They appeared to be enjoying each other's company. Maybe the alliance wasn't such a bad idea.

After taking a couple of bites from our picnic basket, I felt ready to leave. Kissing her neck, I whispered. "Sugar, want to leave with me?"

Smiling back at me she nodded her head as she replied. "Yes, take me away. Anywhere, wherever you want to go, baby."

I took her hand and led her to the car. We slipped out while everyone else was busy eating. I had arranged with Piotr to handle the after-party. He knew we would be leaving early but didn't know when.

As we pulled away, Dahlia glanced back. "Aren't they going to miss us?" she asked.

"I'm sure they will, but it is time to go," I said, squeezing her leg.

"Where are we going?" she asked innocently.

"To the airport, sugar," I replied, smiling at her.

Once we arrived at the airport, I collected the two bags I packed. As we stood in the line, I turned to her. "Pick a number from one to five sugar."

Dahlia looked at me, stunned. "What do you mean pick a number?" she enquired.

"Don't worry, it's not dangerous. Just pick one," I urged her on.

I watched as she rubbed her ear. She always did this when she was about to make a hard choice. "Okay, number four then," she said.

"Great choice and just in time," I said as we stepped up to the counter. "Two tickets to Hawaii, please," I said to the lady behind the desk. "First class to leave as soon as possible."

The woman nodded, typed on her keyboard, and smiled at us. I paid and collected the tickets. "You board at gate five in ten minutes; enjoy your holiday," she said.

Glancing at Dahlia, she appeared shocked. Her eyes were wide, and her mouth hung open. I felt sure she wanted to say something, but nothing was coming out. "Sugar," I said, dropping our bags. "Are you okay? What's wrong?"

"Hawaii," she uttered. "Are we going to Hawaii?"

Flooding with relief, I picked up the bags as I spoke. "Yes, sugar. We are going to Hawaii."

Dahlia held my arm as we moved through the people to gate five. Once we boarded the plane, I could relax. We were on our way to our honeymoon. Tapping her leg, I spoke softly. "Get some rest, sugar. I will wake you before we land."

The flight was peaceful and pleasant. I sat staring at Dahlia the entire time. She was so perfect, and she was mine. I woke Dahlia as the pilot announced our landing. We collected our luggage and rented a vehicle. Driving up and down the street, I let her pick a hotel.

After checking in, we headed to our suite. Dahlia was amazed as he giggled and turned in circles through every room. Flopping down on the sofa after her exploration, she sat down and smiled at me. "Would you like to explore the island or rest some more?" I asked, sitting next to her.

"Exploring," Dahlia said, jumping up.

"Alright, I heard of this lovely stretch of beach we should check out," I said as we headed out.

We drove a short distance and parked the car. The sun was starting to set, and the island felt alive. It was the most magnificent sunset I had ever seen, and she agreed it was perfect. Sitting on the white sand, we were greeted by the early evening breeze, like an old friend. It brought along the fine smell of fruit and flowers adding to our relaxing experience.

After a while, we headed back to the hotel. We shared a soothing hot bubble bath and settled in for the night.

The next morning, we were up early as we had a couple's massages scheduled. After that, we enjoyed the rest of the morning lazing around the pool. We explored some more of the island and ate supper at a small little shack on the beach.

Dahlia complained only about the swimwear that suddenly didn't fit as it should. We scoured every shop for two days until we found something she was comfortable in. Being able to swim every day made her happy. Most of our week proceeded similarly.

On day six, things changed. We had our usual breakfast and massage. Dahlia didn't want to swim but took a nap for the rest of the morning. As we sat on the beach in the afternoon having lunch, she smiled at me. She spoke as she took my hand, "Thank you for everything. For all you have done, and for this amazing honeymoon."

"Sugar," I said, kissing her. "I will do anything for you. Whatever your heart desires, I will make happen."

She seemed more uncomfortable than usual. "Are you feeling okay?" I questioned as we headed back to the hotel.

Dahlia gave me a tired smile as she replied. "I'm fine. I've been feeling bloated and more tired. But I am fine, baby."

That evening, we had to take a flight back home as she was experiencing a variety of cramps, headaches, and nausea.

As we landed, Dahlia took my hand and squeezed. "I think I may be in labor," she whispered. Watching the people leaving the plane, I felt a bit frantic. "Are you sure?" I asked.

"No, I could be wrong, but something feels different." She huffed as we stood up.

Glancing around, I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. "Would you like to go to the hospital?" I said as we got into the car.

"No, I think we can wait till morning; the pains have calmed," Dahlia replied, grinning.

Early the next morning, we visited our doctor. Sitting in his office, we listened as he explained the situation to us. "It is time," he said. "I am glad you came back early. Dahlia only has about a week to go, and the babies can come any day now."

We headed home. I called Mila and asked her to prepare space in the living area downstairs. I didn't want Dahlia to walk the stairs. The next two days were chaos. We went from a calm, normal family to one permanently screaming at each other.

Dahlia needed so many things, and with work in between, I was feeling drained. By the end of day two, I fell down on the couch next to her. "Sugar," I huffed. "Can I get you anything?"

I felt her hand reaching out, but she didn't answer. Turning, I knew it was time. Dahlia was biting her lower lip, breathing hard. "Mila," I screamed, scrambling off the sofa. "Get the car, it's time."

Helping her up, we moved slowly to the car. I drove to the hospital at a record speed. Jumping out I almost fell over as I scrambled around the car to her side. After opening the door, I ran inside.

"My wife, my wife," I blustered at the nurses. "She's in labor."

They were very friendly and quick. I was still struggling to catch my breath as they pushed her past me. We headed to the delivery room, and our doctor was called. Even though she had twins, the birth went without issues and quickly.

I stayed by her side and held her hand through the entire process. At times, it felt like she was crushing every bone in my hand, but I endured. I didn't understand where she suddenly found such strength.

Once the babies were there, we could hold them for a short period. The nurses cleaned them before they were moved to the baby room. I assisted Dahlia to get up and take a shower. The doctor visited and asked that Dahlia and the twins stay the night for observation.

Once she was asleep, I headed home. I would be back in the morning with all she and the babies needed. I arrived early to take my precious family home. Once they were all settled, I sat with Dahlia, staring at our babies.

"I'm so proud of you, sugar," I said, beaming. "I love you so much."