Courting a Salamandrian

Chapter 25: First Dance

Song used in this chapter is called "Always Be My Baby" by Mathew V

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The evening celebration has begun! The wedding guests are off to the reception in the large grass field of the O'Neil's property. The night vibrates as they enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. It seems the evening itself awaits the newlyweds making their grand appearance.

Inside the living room of the farmhouse, Raphael and Mona Lisa were relaxing, freshening up before heading outside to join their friends and family at the reception for food and drinks. The moment he knew they were alone, Raph didn't hold back from his excitement. The second the door closed behind him, Raph dashed to his wife, grabbing her, holding her in a tight embrace, as he lifted her up and spun her around.

"Look at my beautiful gorgeous wife! I love her so much!" Raph practically sings with pure joy, "I've been blessed!"

"Raphael, put me down!" Mona laughs, blushing from her husband's sudden actions and declaration.

He carefully sets her down, "Sorry. You have no idea how badly I wanted to do that when I first saw you," he lovingly sighs, weak in the knees. "You look absolutely beautiful..."

Mona blushes, "Thank you, my love. You look devilishly handsome this evening as well." She smiles at him as she begins adjusting his tie, admiring her husband, "I've never seen you dressed this sophisticated. It's a nice change - however, I prefer that reckless hot tempered but also honorable warrior that I fell in love with on the 3rd Ice Moon of Thalos. That brave handsome man who fought a dishonorable Utrom for me so we could have this special day."

"That... reminds me," Raph says, taking Mona's hands as he looks at her with concern, "You're not mad I allowed Bishop to stay?"

"I was surprised at first, but in truth, I am curious as to what this gift they mentioned is."

Raph lets out a breath of relief, glad to know he and his wife are on the same page. He then gently wraps his arms around her hips, pulling her closer to him. Mona does the same, wrapping her arms around his shoulder as the two slowly swing from side to side in their embrace, staring loving into each other's eyes.

"What do you think it is?"

"Hmm... Perhaps it is Bishop's letter of resignation?" Mona jokes, giving a smug smile, "I just hope the others restrain themselves from picking a fight with him. I know Slash wants to pay him back for tasing him and the other Mutanimals, but I informed Slash that you and I will take care of things."

 "Speaking of Slash," Raph says, giving a childish grin, ready to spread the gossip, "Did you hear about him and Alopex?"

 "I've heard. Slash and Alopex have been growing close lately, and I know over the past year Slash has been quite fond of her, though he never wishes to admit it."

"You know, Alopex got really angry at me when I assumed she was Slash's date."

Mona snickers, "Did she say they are 'just friends'?"

Raph nods, grinning as he tries to hold back his laughter, "Reminds me of when Donnie and April first started dating. They were in such denial of what was obviously there."

"And look at them now. A happy young couple just like the two of us. I wouldn't be surprised if Donatello and April were next to wed."

Raph chuckles, agreeing with his wife before booping his nose to hers. His smile returned as the couple both closed their eyes, embracing this moment of peace and quiet. Faintly they could hear the chatter and laughter of their wedding guest from outside, waiting for them to join in the celebration.