Back to Basics chapter 193
The next day, AJ is fast asleep, a small smile on her lips, when soft whispers and giggles cause her to stir. She winces and mumbles, rolling away from the odd sounds, until something bounces on the bed next to her, causing her to jerk awake the rest of the way, gasping and beginning to flail uncoordinatedly, trying to free herself from the sheets tangled around her body so she can defend herself from- whatever this is. But she's quickly hugged around the midsection, a familiar British accent soothingly whispering to her as the sheets disappear. She squirms and blinks, squinting around. "Layla?"
"Yeah, honey, it's us. Sorry we startled you," she murmurs, Alicia nodding in agreement as AJ focuses on her. "Kaitlyn said she was letting you sleep in a bit after the party you all had the night before, but the wedding is a few hours away now so it's time to get up and start getting ready."
AJ rubs at her eyes before finding the clock, eyes widening as she registers the numbers flashing at her. "12?!" Mumbling in Spanish, she sits up and looks around wildly. "Oh God, there's not enough time- my hair's a mess, I have to-"
"You have to breathe," Layla chides her softly. "We wouldn't have let you sleep this long if we thought it would mess with your schedule. Now come on, girl, we're here to help you, and you're going to look beautiful long before it's time to go. I promise."
AJ struggles to relax, looking from Kaitlyn to Alicia, even to Tamina, who is lurking in the doorway. They all look as confident as Layla sounds and her shoulders slump a little, some tension leaving her. For a moment, she wishes Mike could come give her another massage. The thought brings a small smile to her lips. "Alright," she murmurs, releasing a soft breath. "How did your match on Main Event go, by the way? I'm sorry I couldn't watch-"
"Don't worry about it," Layla tells her with a faint smile. "You didn't miss much."
"We lost," Alicia mumbles, rubbing at her midsection with a grimace that AJ shares with the taller diva.
"We'll get them next time, Foxy." Layla leans back and claps her hands, not wanting to ruin the wedding prep with their career woes. "Now, what do we all think about a little brunch, and then we'll get started?"
"I'm not sure I can eat," AJ mutters, the very mention of food bringing back her nervousness in full force. Not that marrying Mike is scaring, no, she's sure that that will go by fine, but any other possibilities leave her feeling a little shaky. Like if somehow the truth of their relationship had gotten out, not putting it past her many enemies to try to ruin her special day. Not that she thinks her bridesmaids or John's groomsmen would let it get too far, but still. The thoughts of it leaves thrills of horror shivering down her spine until she can barely see straight, staring down at her hands.
"Oh yes you can," the four women interject, looking around at each other before laughing briefly. "What's wrong, AJ?" Kaitlyn asks once they realize that AJ isn't laughing, still focused on her engagement ring. "Are you having second thoughts?"
"What? No!" she gasps, brows furrowing in anger at the mere suggestion. "I love Mike, I would never- reconsider this, especially on the day of. I'm just thinking... things keep getting complicated and now it's the day of and... the wedding's in a pretty public place, what if the news gets out and those Total Divas tramps find out about it and try to crash it, or- or something? I don't want my special day to become a spectacle and- and be used in their dirty little reality show..." Tears fill her eyes anew and Alicia acts first, pulling her in for a hug. Layla joins in a second later, Kaitlyn adding in to the group hug a moment later.
"Do you really think we'd let that happen? Heck, I bet Mike's half of the wedding party would pick them up and throw them into the ocean themselves if they tried to do anything to mess with today." The maid of honor pulls away with a faint smile and cups AJ's face, staring into her watery eyes. "Now come on, don't worry about anything. We've handled everything, and the next time you're crying, I want them to be happy tears, alright? If you're going to mess up your makeup not long after we've put it on you, it might as well be for the right reasons." AJ sniffs and nods, laughing brokenly as Kaitlyn hugs her again before pulling away, dragging her out of bed. "Good girl, now go shower and we'll bring you some food."
"I could get used to this," she jokes, wiping at her eyes before padding off towards the bathroom to do just as Kaitlyn had suggested, maybe cry out the last of her nerves under the hot spray of the shower.
After AJ's shower and quickly drying her hair, the group of them sit around John's kitchen, eating a quick meal of what Kaitlyn had found in John's fridge and cupboards, which ended up being mostly vegetables and fruits, which actually whipped up into a pretty decent salad once she, Alicia and Layla were done with it all. The living room is partitioned off, which seems weird to AJ until she realizes that that's probably where the reception is set up, hidden from view to surprise her. She smirks, staring at the divider as she ponders what Morrison could've possibly put together in such a limited amount of time, since it had looked normal enough the last time she'd seen it, before last night's party.
The longer they sit and talk, the more jittery AJ gets, so finally, around 1:30, Kaitlyn stands up. "Alright, guys, I think if we don't get moving, AJ here's going to tap a hole through the floor. And I doubt John would like his nice kitchen getting messed up, so let's go do some beautifying type stuff, yeah?"
"Yes!" Alicia squeals, obviously eager for this part of the afternoon as they lead AJ back to the bedrooms, giggling and talking about everything they want to do with their hair and makeup, and everything else. She sits back and lets them at it, watching as she's transformed from her average just-woke-up teenager appearance to something that... she suspects actually passes as a bride, her hair curled into gentle waves, soft makeup accentuating her features nicely. When they finally pull away, Alicia is the first to speak. "Wow," she breathes, resting a hand on AJ's shoulder. "You look gorgeous, AJ."
"Yes, you do," Layla agrees with a soft smile, lightly brushing away a smudge of mascara from AJ's face. "Mike won't know what hit him when he first sees you."
Kaitlyn looks floored as she stares down at AJ. "Has anyone seen my best friend?" she jokes, shaking her head. "You look amazing, AJ." She carefully hugs her, making sure not to ruin hair or makeup as she pulls away and examines her face. "Are you happy with all of this?"
AJ peers at herself in the mirror and nods. "Yeah," she whispers. It's more makeup than she's ever worn for non-WWE things, and her hair looks ridiculous, but... something about it, she can't find fault with what they'd done to her. It just calls to her, leaves her with little doubt that Mike will love it as well. Not that he minds how she looks on an off day either, but still. She wants to look special for him, and this will hopefully fit the bill. "Is it time for my dress?"
"Almost," Layla says softly, squeezing her shoulders. "We're going to get into our dresses first, we'll be right back, honey."
AJ nods and sits there, watching them in the mirror as they slip into other rooms to change, turning to face herself with a small smile. "Two more hours," she whispers to herself, taking a deep breath. She's still sitting there, picturing the look on Mike's face, when her bridal party returns, each of them wearing variations of cream colored dresses.
"Now we're ready for you, honey," Layla tells her, adjusting the sleeves of her form fitting dress. "Come on." AJ obligingly stands and turns to face them, her eyes locked on the dress as it's unzipped from its bag. It's pale pink and short, stopping short of her knees, and she'd loved it from the moment her eyes had locked on it back in the store. They help her step into it, Alicia zipping it up and clasping it before smoothing the soft fabric of her skirt that billows out daintily around her legs. "Perfect."
AJ looks down at herself, smiling slightly. "I... can't believe this is happening." She had felt so fake during her wedding to Daniel Bryan, but so far, she's felt entirely like herself, their wedding party embracing every one of her likes and dislikes in an attempt to make this day perfect for them. "It's so amazing..." Layla smiles and wraps her arms around her in a gentle hug, rocking her back and forth. "I deserve this, right?"
"Of course you do! Honey, no one deserves it more, after everything you've been through." Layla strokes her hair carefully, staring into her face. "You trust me, right?"
"Yeah, I do," she nods, smiling.
"And you trust Mike. And he agrees with me, that you deserve this. So no more doubts, alright? Just sit here and relax, and let us handle all of the last minute details and we'll get you back by Mike's side before you even realize it." Layla squeezes her shoulder before bustling off.
AJ looks up, something registering with her. "Last minute details? What last minute details? I thought we handled everything already-"
"Well, you and Mike did the traditional thing by not spending the last couple of nights together, so we figured you would want to continue that sort of thing. So we have some things for you," Layla says, holding out a bag to Alicia, waiting until she takes something from the depths of it, Kaitlyn doing the same when it's her turn. AJ blinks in surprise when Tamina steps up, also reaching into the bag. "We know you have some stuff that would fit the bill already, but we each wanted to give you something for even thinking to include us in your big day, so here we are."
Kaitlyn steps forward and smiles down at her best friend. "Brides traditionally wear something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. I have your old item." She presses something into her hair, lips parting into a soft grin as she brushes the dark waves back, sighing. "You look so beautiful." AJ turns slowly and looks at herself in the mirror once more, examining the sparkling hair barrette holding her hair out of her eyes.
"Thank you," she whispers, leaning up and hugging her tightly. "It's incredible." They're still murmuring to each other when there's a faint sound of a throat clearing behind them and AJ pulls away, looking around until her eyes fall warily upon Tamina, her enforcer staring at her. "Um..."
"I have new," she says quietly, tapping whatever it is against her knuckles. "I hope you like it." She settles a cool gold chain around AJ's neck, gently clasping it before stepping away. AJ peers down at it, resting her hand against the solid silver butterfly resting just below her collarbone.
"Thank you," AJ breathes out, awed by its beauty. "I, I'll treasure it." Once the slightly awkward moment passes, Tamina quietly sitting back on the bed to watch the rest of it, the divas champion turns to look at Layla and Alicia, who smile at her, before the British diva steps forward.
She smiles shakily and kneels down in front of AJ, loosely taking her hand and fitting a delicate, golden linked bracelet around the wrist opposite of the one wearing the charm bracelet that Mike had given her. "This was my mother's," she explains, her voice cracking as she fights not to cry. "I would be honored if you wear it today. This is your borrowed item."
"Layla," AJ murmurs, touched and humbled all at the same time as she gingerly touches the jewelry. "I'll take very good care of it, I promise."
"I know you will," she nods, wiping at her eyes and smiling, stepping aside so Alicia can take over.
"Blue didn't really fit with the motif of the wedding," she explains, smiling tearfully as Kaitlyn rubs circles against Layla's back. "But I had to think of something. So... I bought you this." She holds out a package of small jewels, beaming when AJ looks down at them confused. "They're for your bouquet," she explains, pulling out one of the small decorations. "You just poke them where you want between the flowers. I hope you like them."
"That's perfect," she breathes, taking a couple of the clusters of light blue stones and examining them with a small smile. "Thank you all so much, I was starting to think none of this would come together at all, but- it, it has. I'm so happy." Kaitlyn wraps her arms around the girl's shoulders, grinning as she releases a soft breath, shaking her head. "So I guess we're just about ready, huh?"
"Almost," Alicia says cheerfully, the grin not leaving her face since seeing how much AJ liked her idea. "You don't want to forget your bouquet!"
"Oh," AJ gasps, turning to look at the flowers as Layla picks them up and hands them to her. "Right, wouldn't want to do that." They mesh beautifully with her dress, the white dahlias complimenting the peonies and lisianthus nicely, sweet peas budding here and there among the larger petals. After they add Alicia's clusters of jewelry to the mix, AJ can't take her eyes off of the bouquet. It's incredible, the pale blue stones gleaming in the sun pouring in through the window, reflecting every beam of light that brushes against it. "Now are we ready?" she asks, glancing from woman to woman, who each nods. "Well, what are we waiting for then?"
Kaitlyn chuckles and shakes her head, resting her hand on AJ's back. "Absolutely nothing, let's get this show on the road." The five of them giggle and talk softly as they walk downstairs to the lobby of John's apartment, relieved when they run into no one on the way. It's quiet and peaceful, the only sound being car engines in the distance and the soft chirps of birds overhead, AJ sighing softly as she takes in the beautiful sky overhead, and the soft sound of lapping waves against the sand that will be the soundtrack to her wedding day.
"Now just as long as an earthquake doesn't hit in the middle of the I Dos," she mutters, lightly kicking her feet through the sun-kissed sand as she goes.
"What'd you say, honey?" Layla asks, glancing over at her.
AJ blinks and shakes her head, smiling anxiously. "Nothing, just muttering to myself. It's nothing." Even so, now that the thought's with her, she can't help but dwell on it. That'd be a hell of a thing. Just as the officiant says speak now or forever hold your peace, the big one strikes and half of the state cracks off into the ocean. But as soon as the bridesmaids guide her down the beach, all such thoughts leave her head as she catches the first glimpse of where she'll be standing soon, staring into Mike's eyes as she devotes herself to him. It's simple, the ocean a backdrop to a sloping canopy with soft cream fabric floating in the wind, calling to all in the area for their attention. And it easily receives it, the few beachgoers around on a Wednesday afternoon whispering and smiling as they walk by it.
The soft scent of freesias, orchids and tulips that are tangled around the base of the arch, greets them all as they walk the rest of the way to it, AJ captivated by what's going to be the site of her wedding, smiling faintly. "It's amazing," she sighs, staring up at the billowing fabric. "Where are the men, then?"
"We had John shoo them off to the back of his apartment so we can have a minute to take it all in before the ceremony begins," Kaitlyn explains. "They're just waiting for you, girl." She squeezes AJ's shoulder and grins down at her as she nods, stepping forward and examining it closer. "Is it everything you wanted?"
She turns slowly to look at them, smiling. "Yes it is. I can't stop staring at it." She fiddles with her engagement ring for a moment, brushing her fingertips against the soft petals of the flowers overhead, before steeling her shoulders and turning back to her friends. "I'm ready now. I want to get married now."
Kaitlyn grins at her and nods, the group of them walking towards a tent that's a few feet away, in place just so AJ has a place to come out of, to surprise Mike with the first glimpse of his bride in her dress. After sending a text to John to let him know they're out of sight, they stand, AJ's anticipation and anxiety growing by the second until it feels like the small tent is stifling in it, all eyes are on her when the first strand of music is heard, her eyes widening when it registers with her. "It's time," her maid of honor tells her with a small smile. "You ready?"
"Yes," she murmurs, gripping the bouquet with a little more force than needed. Alicia reaches out and squeezes her hand, smiling when she softens her hold, stopping just shy of crushing the delicate flowers within. Her touch disappears and AJ watches quietly as Alicia and Layla leave first, Kaitlyn staring at her best friend. "I'm ok."
"I know you are. Come on, let's get you married, Mrs. Mizanin." AJ laughs shakily as Kaitlyn winks at her and leaves the tent, the divas champion breathing in and out deeply, trying to prepare herself for the long, nerve-wracking walk down the aisle, when the tent opens again and Tamina peeks in, shocking the girl as she instinctively takes a step back, swallowing harshly.
They stare at each other for a long moment before the enforcer looks down. "Um, so... I notice that every role in the wedding's taken... except for who's going to give you away," she says slowly, licking her lips. "I know we're not family, but if you want me to, it'd be my honor."
AJ takes a deep breath, her nerves suddenly disappearing in a dizzying rush, and steps forward, looking up at her. "You're wrong." Tamina stares at her curiously and she smiles weakly. "We... we are family, you've had my back more times than I can count. And I... I know I'm a brat sometimes, but you... I... I think of you as my sister. So, yeah. I mean. I, I would like that."
Tamina nods shakily, the music outside growing louder, as if demanding that they move already, and holds her hand out. "Come on then. Let's do this thing." AJ nods, hooking her arm with Tamina's, smiling through the tears in her eyes as they walk side by side out into the sun, the bride releasing a soft, shuddering breath as she gets her first glimpse of Mike, his outline just visible in the sun's glow, under the canopy, waiting for her. "Hey," the taller diva murmurs, drawing AJ's gaze away. "I really am sorry about Monday and, and all of this. But I'm glad Kaitlyn was here for you when I couldn't be."
AJ nods, wiping at her eyes. "I'm sorry too. But let's move past that, alright? You're here now and that's all that matters." Tamina smiles and guides her down the sand towards where Mike is waiting, AJ's eyes locking on her husband to be, her lips parting into a grin as he takes her in for the first time, barely able to take his eyes off of her. She feels the same, the surprisingly simple midnight blue suit he's wearing looking perfect on him. Tamina nods at Kaitlyn before walking over to stand across from Del Rio, a few feet away from the canopy. "Mike."
He grins back and reaches for her hand, pausing as Kaitlyn leans forward. "Here, I'll take your bouquet, free your hands," she whispers to the girl, smiling and stepping back once the flowers are transferred to her to watch with the rest of them.
As the officiant begins to talk, AJ and Mike continue to stare at each other, his words washing over them with all of the promises of marriage and devotion reflected in their gazes. They speak when needed, waiting for the cue to say their vows, but outside of the waves licking against the sand, seagulls drifting overhead, and other sounds of nature, it's quiet and peaceful, Justice of the Peace Cooper's voice the only thing underscoring it all. "So as I understand it, the groom and bride have written their own vows. Whenever you're ready," he finally tells them, Mike standing up a little straighter as he nods, smiling down at AJ.
AJ watches, expecting him to pull a paper out, something, but he doesn't make any such moves, his hands folded around hers. "You're doing this from memory, Mike?"
"Of course I am," he tells her. "I've known what I've wanted to say to you before I put that ring on your finger." She flushes and nods, taking a deep breath as he begins to talk. "AJ, when I first saw you in that mixed tag- truly, honestly looked at you, I knew deep down I was done for. You had me from the first moment our eyes locked, even if it took me awhile to realize it. And through all the wild crap that followed, I've never lost the feelings from that one moment- awe and disbelief that you could ever be interested in me, that I would ever deserve you. But it's somehow happened, no matter how stupid I was along the way, and we made it to this point and I promise... I'm going to make you the very happiest that I possibly can from this moment on. You're so beautiful inside and out, there's no words to properly describe it, and all I can say to you for your unending forgiveness and love is thank you. Thank you so much for accepting me even when I'm at my most obnoxious, forgiving me no matter how badly I misspeak. I love you so much, I can't wait for our life together to begin."
AJ chokes back her tears as he smiles down at her, resting his hand on her cheek, brushing the wet trails away as she tries to regain control of herself, understanding that it's her turn and not wanting to make Mike wait after his sweet, heartfelt words. Sniffing, she fans herself off and swallows, Kaitlyn's hand warm on her back as she smiles shakily. "Ok, I got it," she breathes, Mike smiling encouragingly at her. "I should be the one thanking you, Mike. Love has shattered me over and over again and I was certain, after everything that I went through the last couple of years, that I would never find anyone to be with again, much less marry. But then you cemented your place in my life last summer, and I honestly think I can't breathe without you anymore, and it doesn't scare me like it probably should because I know now that I'll never have to worry about it again. Your loyalty and depth of love to those around you overwhelms me to the point where I don't know what to do with it all sometimes, but you've been so patient with me, giving me time when I need it, loving me through every moment, bad or good... I love you so much, and I look forward to every day from this point on that I'll be waking up in your arms."
As soon as it's clear that both are done, the justice clears his throat and stares at Mike. "With these promises to each other in mind, Michael, do you take April to be your wife, to love, honor and cherish her for all time?"
"I do," Mike agrees softly, squeezing her hand as it trembles in his.
He nods and turns to face AJ. "April, do you take Michael to be your husband? Do you promise to love, honor and cherish him for all time?"
She sniffs and stares directly into Mike's eyes. "Yes, I do, forever and ever."
He gives them a moment before glancing between the two of them. "I believe it's time for the rings then. May I have them, please?" Mike turns to John, AJ to Kaitlyn, and they collect the other's ring, quickly rejoining each other, holding hands as though letting go for too long would be devastating for them both. "Put the ring on her finger and repeat after me."
Mike nods, listening as he gently holds the ring against her finger, pausing for a second as AJ takes in the glittering pink diamonds, beautifully molded into the rose gold band. He beams down at her and follows Justice Cooper's instructions. "AJ, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion to you." He then presses it in place and they switch.
His hand is warm and steady in hers as she holds his matching ring, sans the diamonds, up to his finger, waiting for Justice Cooper to finish speaking. "Mike, I give you this ring as a sign of my love and devotion to you," she whispers, his ring soon where it belongs as well, the two of them unable to look away from their entwined fingers, the rings gleaming next to each other in the late afternoon sun.
"April, Michael," Justice Cooper says, only barely breaking into their fog. "By the power vested in me by the state of California, I pronounce you husband and wife. Michael-" He's barely finished the last syllable in Miz's name when he cups AJ's face and leans in, kissing her desperately as the wedding party, Del Rio and Tamina clap loudly. Even beachgoers passing by who have paused and watched start clapping, AJ giggling against his lips as he pulls her closer.
It's a struggle to pull away from each other, but they finally manage it, Mike breathing deeply as she leans against him, his hands steady against her lower back. "I guess we should lead everyone to the reception now," he tells her softly as she pouts but nods, turning to join him in addressing their closer friends. "As most of you know, the reception is at Morrison's apartment. We have food, drinks and music." He smiles at the Justice of the Peace. "Feel free to join us if you have some time, there's plenty to go around."
AJ slips her hand down Mike's arm and squeezes his fingers, the two of them walking side by side back to John's building, smiling at each other whenever their eyes lock on their way up the stairs. "I love you," she murmurs.
"I love you too," he responds, unlocking John's door and leading her inside. They both pause in the doorway, gaping at what they can see of the living room- it resembles the canopy outside, with the same soft fabric and flowers drifting around the room, faint lights gleaming off of the walls and floor that will become more dazzling as the sun sets the rest of the way. "Wow." John's apartment isn't huge, but with the furniture gone, his living room looks much more spacious, Mike surprised at how perfectly everything had come together in its simplistic beauty.
AJ swallows thickly next to him, her eyes wide as she takes it all in. "It's gorgeous."
"Yes it is," he whispers, drawing her inside and brushing some of the hair out of her eyes. "But it has nothing on you." She grins up at him as the door opens behind them, Morrison leading Kaitlyn in, Alicia and Alex, Ricardo and Layla behind them. Del Rio and Tamina round out the party, Mike resting his chin on his wife's shoulder as they watch their friends look around John's apartment before surrounding them, offering congratulations and hugs.
"So I think the itinerary says something about a bouquet throw and then cake, and then dancing?" John mutters to Mike as they stand side by side, watching AJ with her bridesmaids and Tamina, looking happier than she's been in a really long time. For one night, all the pressures of being divas champion isn't on her shoulders, and Mike enjoys seeing her like this, as her only focus lays with being Mike Mizanin's new bride.
"Sounds right," he chuckles. "Thanks, man. Hosting all of this and keeping everything moving, I just... I'm a little distracted right now."
"Understandably so," John shrugs. "It's your party, man. You enjoy it and I'll take care of the rest, yeah?" He claps his hands and looks around. "Hey, guys, the bride and groom have decided to get all of the tradition out of the way so we can all just relax and enjoy the rest of the evening, dancing and cake and all of that fun stuff, so. Single ladies, round up," he calls out, glancing over as the divas follow his direction, standing in a tight circle as AJ pulls the small blue jewels out from between the flowers, not wanting to poke anybody's eyes out with the toss.
Mike stands by her side and grins as she turns her back on the small group, counting to three and tossing the flowers behind her, turning in time to see Alicia gasp, her long legs helping her reach over the others and collect the flying bouquet out of thin air, holding it close to her chest as she stares down at them. AJ laughs as she takes in the look of shock on the girl's face, grinning. "Hey, Alicia, looks like you're going to be the next one juggling a WWE career and wedding preparation."
Alicia laughs and shakes her head. "Well, as long as you agree to be my bridesmaid too, AJ."
"Of course, just tell me when and where," the bride grins back at her friend. Mike kisses the side of her head and nuzzles closer to her as she grips the edge of his suit, tilting her head to kiss him properly. "Cake time?" He crinkles his nose against hers before nodding. "Great. Let's do this thing, then I want to dance with you the rest of the night."
"Sounds like a plan," he mutters against her lips, turning to look at John. They exchange nods and his best man walks off towards the kitchen to collect supplies, Alex joining him. Between the two of them, they bring the three tier cake out and AJ smiles as she takes in the white frosting with strawberry filling that tints it a pink so faintly that it's only visible to those looking close enough. "Ready?" She nods and takes his hand again, the two of them walking over to the table. Mike picks up the knife and together, they cut into the cake, revealing the rich chocolate with strawberry slices and glaze filling the middle of the dessert. The newlyweds smile lovingly at each other before separating, Mike pressing a small sliver of it onto a plate that John hands to him. A second follows a moment later and they face each other.
"Don't you dare smear it over my face," she warns him teasingly as they both lift up their pieces of cake. "Or I won't kiss you for the rest of the night."
He pouts at her, smirking slightly. "Yeah, right, sweetheart. Like you could resist." She rolls her eyes but watches closely as he leans in, holding the cake up to her lips. She bites into the cake smoothly, smiling up at him as he lightly pulls his fingers away, beaming down at her. "Good?"
"Yes. We have good taste." She smiles and stands on her tiptoes, holding the cake out to him, but... before he can move to meet her halfway, she presses it against his face, smashing it around as he freezes, staring down at her in amazement. "Sorry," she laughs, the others joining in as they realize what she's done. "I couldn't resist."
"That's not fair," he huffs, reaching up to brush off his lips when she grips his wrists and stands on her tiptoes, kissing and licking the frosting and crumbs off of his mouth and skin. He sighs and shakes his head, mumbling, "Now you had two pieces and I've had none."
"Aw poor baby," she soothes him, her fingers stroking against his hands as she pulls away, finding the knife and slicing more of the cake. He watches her warily as she once more holds her fingers to his lips, waiting patiently until he bites into the cake, closing his eyes against how good it takes. "Better?"
"I suppose," he smiles down at her before turning to face the others. "Alright, guys, well. There's cake, and John's provided sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres, so relax, eat, drink, dance. Have a great time. My bride and I, we have some dancing to do." He takes her hand and leads her out to the floor as John reaches over and turns on the music, AJ's eyes locked on Mike's face as he grins down at her. "Hi."
"Hi," she responds, blinking when the music begins to play, registering with her. "Mike..." He smiles and rests his hand on the small of her back, their first song slow, simple as they dance in each other's arms, digesting everything around them. They're so wrapped up in each other that neither notice as first Ricardo and Layla take the floor, then Alex and Alicia, John and Kaitlyn following at the end of the second song. On the next fast song, Miz and AJ dance a little looser, a little quicker, the divas champion shaking her head as he makes faces at her when she can't help but laugh at his moves. Switching back to a slow song, Mike spins her closer to him and dips her, their dance immediately becoming leisurely and intimate, Mike sighing into her hair as he finally looks around the dance floor. "What is it?" she asks quietly when his eyes rest on something, a surprised look on his face.
"Look," he murmurs, nodding towards the right. She glances over, then double-takes, gaping as Alicia and Alex dance, a slight flush on Alicia's face while they spin in slow circles. Mike can't see Alex's face from this angle, but still... "Think we may cause another love connection?" he asks AJ, smiling as she looks over at him, eyes gleaming in the soft lights overhead.
"Anything's possible," she murmurs, stroking his back. "She did catch my bouquet, after all..."
"Well, let's not go that fast with it," he laughs. "They haven't even danced together for an hour yet." She shrugs and rests her head on his shoulder, sighing slightly. He's not sure how much time has passed, lost in AJ's warmth, only noticing that the sun has set long ago when John turns the music off after another song when he feels it's time for them all to go. After he explains that they'll be leaving to Mike's house, allowing Mike and AJ to stay at the apartment, have some privacy and quiet, they all exchange goodbyes, Mike smirking at Alex as he hugs him.
"Aw, shut up," he mutters, glancing over at Alicia surreptitiously. Mike laughs, Alex grimacing. "Oh, go on," he sighs, pushing him off towards Ricardo.
Once they've finished seeing everyone out, Mike turns back to AJ and smiles down at her. "Well, we're finally alone." She nods and rests her hand on his, lightly rubbing up his arm, the cool band of her ring pressing into his flesh. "I love you."
"I love you too," she breathes, gasping out a squeal as he wraps an arm around her, lifting her up and carrying her back into the living room, settling her back on the floor as he looks around at the room. "Mike..."
He smiles and leans in, kissing her deeply. "AJ." He brushes his hands across her shoulders, down her arms, the two of them swaying in a slow dance even without the music, enjoying the first bit of proper silence they've had in days. "We really did it," he murmurs, looking at the ring on her finger.
"Yes we did," she nods. "And, Mike? I had a surprise for you put on the rings..." She lightly takes his hands and pulls the ring off, turning so it's just visible in the golden lights.
"You inscribed it?" he asks as she examines the underside of the band, her eyes shining. "With what, sweetheart?" He approaches and she holds it up to him, waiting until he sees it. "Is that...?" Infinity symbols link together, her initials between the curved lines.
"There's matching inscriptions on mine, with your initials," she explains to him. "Do you like it?"
He nods, staring in awe at the delicate, yet meaningful marks against the rose gold. "I love it, sweetheart." Holding his finger out so she can put the ring back on it where it belongs, he grips her and pulls her closer, sighing into her mouth. She lingers into the kiss until pulling away slowly, skipping right into the middle of the room, laying down on the floor and looking up. He blinks down at her for a few moments before joining her, looking up at the lights gleaming overhead, reflecting into the window that's framing the late night sky over the beach and ocean visible out of John's apartment. He takes it all in for a few minutes before rolling onto his side, grinning when AJ turns to face him. His hands trail up her back to where her dress latches, struggling with the zipper below it as she breathlessly laughs, reaching out for him. As she tugs at his tie, he shifts closer, pressing kisses against her throat. "Welcome to our new life together, Mrs. Mizanin."
She giggles, tilting her head so he has more room to work. "Thank you, Mr. Mizanin, but actions speak louder than words, you know."
He pulls back and stares down at her, smirking. "Well, then, let's see what we can do about that..."
On Friday, they're back at it, both traveling to Smackdown that week to see what's ahead of them. "You know," AJ mutters, leaning her head against his shoulder. "Now the question becomes... what are we going to do about the lie? The Total Divas skanks have seemingly lost interest in their little rumors and everything, and we're actually married now, so..."
Mike strokes his fingers through her hair and considers it. "If you want to, I'd be totally fine with dropping the lie. I mean, people are going to see the rings, and this way I can stop wearing that terrible ring I pretended was from Maryse... Hell, we don't really even need to say anything unless you actually want to just yell it to the world, I'd be ok with that too. But it's not like if anyone tries to spread rumors again, Maryse will care- she knows the truth, we know the truth, and everyone who had been at the wedding knows the truth... so all of the important people know that we're really together."
AJ grins, kissing his chest. "I like the way you think."
"So we're dropping it?"
"Oh yeah, we're dropping it," she hums, closing her eyes in contentment. An emotion which continues for them both as they walk hand-in-hand into the arena, ignoring all of the strange glances they get and whispered comments. She grins up at her husband as they ignore all of it, heading directly to her locker room. "Now this way, your friends and mine can hang out in here together whenever they want and it won't seem weird."
"Exactly," he whispers, kissing her. "I'm glad it's over."
"Me too."
When they finally re-emerge from the locker room, it's to find that Miz actually has some time booked on Smackdown- a MizTV segment, yes, but still, more time than he'd had the last month. He laughs and shakes his head, remembering how angry he'd initially been when AJ had 'granted' him MizTV, like it was some great reward. Now, however, he does feel pretty fond of the talk segment, even if it more times than not gets him in trouble. It had been one of the many things in the road that'd brought them to this place, and he'd always be thankful of it for that reason.
Speaking of getting in trouble, however, he's not thrilled with just Big Show as his guest, considering everything going on, so he wanders around the halls and the locker rooms, collecting as many guys as he possibly can to guest on his show, all participants in the Andre the Giant memorial battle royal at Wrestlemania. After he kisses AJ at the gorilla position and heads out to the ring, things quickly grow heated- he and Big Show are bickering as only former tag partners can do when he calls out all of the other guests, Alberto among them. After he pushes the tension between everyone into an impromptu, unsanctioned, test battle royal, he smoothly slips out of the ring and watches from the outside as everyone eliminates each other, stepping back as Del Rio goes flying out not far from him. They stare at each other as he recollects himself, Alberto rolling his eyes before moving away to wait for his actual match, which had been scheduled next, to begin properly.
Mike waits for an opportunity which he thinks comes when Sheamus and Big Show are the last two in the ring, running in and trying to eliminate both at the same time- but it's close to 800 pounds that he's trying to push and he fails amazingly, unable to do anything as Show successfully tosses Sheamus and then him over. He glares up from the floor, looking over to find Del Rio laughing at him. He glowers at him for a moment before making his way backstage, AJ sympathetic and soothing as he grumbles and lays his head in her lap, relaxing while she strokes her fingers through his hair gently until she has to go to ringside for commentary. To his relief, Tamina goes with her, their truce struck during the wedding seeming to hold strong, at least for now. He knows these things can change in the blink of an eye, especially in this business.
And God, do they. Well, not for him, he's yet again embarrassed and attacked by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Joe Manganiello, just to be thrown over the top rope by Hulk Hogan, but AJ... AJ has it worse this night. She bails early on in her match against Naomi, just to be stopped by Vickie Guerrero, who announces her 13-Diva invitational match, for AJ's title. Which includes, in the long list of names, Tamina herself. AJ looks terrified and backs away from her enforcer and the rest, trapped between Naomi and Cameron in the ring, and the long line of women on the ramp, and Mike swallows harshly, rubbing his finger against her engagement and wedding rings absent-mindedly. He sticks them in his pocket before walking out into the halls, knowing before he's even made it a few feet- her screams echo through the arena and he walks faster, her angry response to being thrown into this match with so little of a chance to walk out with her title reign in tact leading him right to her, watching for a moment as she cries and hits her fists against her knees, clearly wanting it to be a bad joke, or a nightmare, something that would prove it to be a fake.
Tamina is standing a few feet away, watching on blankly as Mike glances at her, walking over to his wife and scooping her up off of the floor, holding her in his arms. "Hey, hey," he whispers, kissing her cheek as he pins her arms to his chest, stopping her from hurting herself. "It's going to be ok. I promise you." She finally looks up at him, body shaking in sobs, and he smiles sadly down at her. "Just keep telling yourself that. You're going to be ok."
"I'm going to be ok," she murmurs. At his encouraging nod, she releases a shuddering breath. "I'm going to be ok. I'm... going to be ok..." She looks up, dark, wet eyes locking on Tamina. "I'm going to be ok."
"Damn straight," he whispers, kissing her forehead.
And she clearly takes his words to heart as she continues to repeat those words aloud the next night on Main Event as she commentates during the ten divas tag match that happens, reciting it in her head afterwards as Tamina's team wins and the enforcer looks less than thrilled when the champion runs into the ring and lifts her hand in victory. I'm going to be ok. AJ pulls away awkwardly before smiling up at her, then hugging her tightly. I'm going to be ok. Nonplussed by her lack of response to the affectionate gesture, she grins and skips out of the ring with her title in hand. I'm going to be ok...