CRUISE FOUR
THE SEQUEL TO
THE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
WEDDING BELLS RING!
DECISIONS AND PROMISES
Tuckerotti was sitting in the lounge with Brady. They were discussing the forthcoming Double Wedding which was to take place the following evening.
Killian had offered to sing at the Reception and, at this very minute, she was with Shadow, rehearsing the number that they had both chosen for the occasion. It would be the bright, romantic love waltz from the Operetta, Madame Dubarry.
Tuckerotti had again been pouring his heart out to his good friend concerning his feelings for Killian. Perhaps it was all the preparations for the weddings which had influenced his mood, but he felt the time had come to tell her. He just HAD to know if she had any feelings for him too.
Killian had offered to sing at the Reception and, at this very minute, she was with Shadow, rehearsing the number that they had both chosen for the occasion. It would be the bright, romantic love waltz from the Operetta, Madame Dubarry.
Tuckerotti had again been pouring his heart out to his good friend concerning his feelings for Killian. Perhaps it was all the preparations for the weddings which had influenced his mood, but he felt the time had come to tell her. He just HAD to know if she had any feelings for him too.
Brady put out his cigar and gave his friend a long, searching look. Then, as if making up his mind on something, he nodded his head and spoke softly.
"Take her aside tonight, after Dinner, and break it to her gently. I've been watching her of late, and I don't think your 'news' is going to come as a surprise." He gazed at his cigar as if contemplating lighting it again, but thought better of it.
Tuckerotti wiped his fall from his eyes and tapped the table with one paw, as if beating out some secret rhythm in his mind.
"Yes, " he said firmly, "that is what I must do. I will ask her to walk a little with me, and tell her I have something important to share with her."
He gave Brady a grateful smile. At last he would be able to tell her what was in his heart, and hopefully, she would not reject him. If she did - well, he would cross that bridge if, and when he came to it. But his hopes were high.
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They sat together at the Dinner table, and Tuckerotti tried to keep a normal tone to his voice, even though his stomach was churning with nervous tension. He wasn't hungry, and he was anxious to get the 'ordeal' over and done with.
Killian did cast a few curious glances in his direction during the meal. She wondered if, perhaps, he was a bit sea sick!
"Take her aside tonight, after Dinner, and break it to her gently. I've been watching her of late, and I don't think your 'news' is going to come as a surprise." He gazed at his cigar as if contemplating lighting it again, but thought better of it.
Tuckerotti wiped his fall from his eyes and tapped the table with one paw, as if beating out some secret rhythm in his mind.
"Yes, " he said firmly, "that is what I must do. I will ask her to walk a little with me, and tell her I have something important to share with her."
He gave Brady a grateful smile. At last he would be able to tell her what was in his heart, and hopefully, she would not reject him. If she did - well, he would cross that bridge if, and when he came to it. But his hopes were high.
-----------
They sat together at the Dinner table, and Tuckerotti tried to keep a normal tone to his voice, even though his stomach was churning with nervous tension. He wasn't hungry, and he was anxious to get the 'ordeal' over and done with.
Killian did cast a few curious glances in his direction during the meal. She wondered if, perhaps, he was a bit sea sick!
After the meal, Killian took Brady aside and asked:
"What's ailing Tuckerotti?"
Brady took a deep draw on his cigar, and when Tuckerotti moved away to look over the side of the ship where white foamy waves were driving back from the stern, he replied in a gentle voice:
"I think you should ask HIM that question, dear - GO to him."
Killian looked baffled for a minute, but as Brady pointed again in Tuckerotti's direction, she nodded her golden head and moved slowly to where he was standing.
They both stood in silence for a minute or two, then both awkwardly spoke at once! Killian gave a little giggle, and motioned for Tuckerotti to speak first.
There was a pregnant pause, then Tucker (his nick-name!) gently touched her shoulder and said in a husky voice:
"Let's walk a little?" So they did.
It was a perfect night. A full moon, and millions of twinkling stars filled the sky.
They walked on in silence, then Tucker stopped, and, taking up his courage, he began to speak words which Killian had dreamed of hearing.
"Killian, from the moment I met you, even before I heard you sing, I was captivated by your sweetness and your pure beauty. But you were a nun, and my thoughts seemed improper." His eyes were shyly downcast as he spoke.
As he paused to moisten his lips, he glanced across at her to see how she was taking his words.
So far, so good!
"I didn't know it was you when I heard that wonderful voice for the first time", he went on. "Then, when you sang for me, I knew I'd found not only my TOSCA, but someone much more special and dear." Another, longer pause.
Killian said nothing, but her eyes became moist, and he wasn't sure if it was happiness, or sadness. He hurried on:
"What I am trying, very awkwardly, to say - is that I love you, Killian. I love you with all my heart, and every fibre of my being." His voice cracked with emotion, and he looked squarely into her big, moist, brown eyes and continued:
"Do I, ..... that is, have I a chance? Do you think you could ever learn to love me, too?"
He didn't have to wait long for the answer. Killian reached out for his paw, and taking it in hers, she shyly touched it to her lips. Then she smiled.
He couldn't take his eyes off her as she spoke to him in soft, hushed tones.
"You not only have the greatest chance in the world, dear Tucker, I can assure you that you don't need to wait for me to LEARN to love you. I already do. I have for a long time now." She turned slightly to look at the white foam, and continued slowly.
"It is a love that has been growing, like a lovely flower in my heart; a seed that you planted, and nurtured all through the difficult times, until it came into full bloom ......"
She broke off, unable to speak further because of the tender way he was looking at her. He had looked at her like that in the Operatic duets they had sung together in TOSCA, and now she knew she wasn't seeing just the face of a good actor. She was seeing the eyes of a man who truly loved her.
It was the most natural thing in the world for them to draw close in an embrace which was perfect harmony, just like the music in their hearts.
They strolled together around the Promenade Deck, oblivious to everyone else. It was as if they were the only two on the ship, and in the world.
"What's ailing Tuckerotti?"
Brady took a deep draw on his cigar, and when Tuckerotti moved away to look over the side of the ship where white foamy waves were driving back from the stern, he replied in a gentle voice:
"I think you should ask HIM that question, dear - GO to him."
Killian looked baffled for a minute, but as Brady pointed again in Tuckerotti's direction, she nodded her golden head and moved slowly to where he was standing.
They both stood in silence for a minute or two, then both awkwardly spoke at once! Killian gave a little giggle, and motioned for Tuckerotti to speak first.
There was a pregnant pause, then Tucker (his nick-name!) gently touched her shoulder and said in a husky voice:
"Let's walk a little?" So they did.
It was a perfect night. A full moon, and millions of twinkling stars filled the sky.
They walked on in silence, then Tucker stopped, and, taking up his courage, he began to speak words which Killian had dreamed of hearing.
"Killian, from the moment I met you, even before I heard you sing, I was captivated by your sweetness and your pure beauty. But you were a nun, and my thoughts seemed improper." His eyes were shyly downcast as he spoke.
As he paused to moisten his lips, he glanced across at her to see how she was taking his words.
So far, so good!
"I didn't know it was you when I heard that wonderful voice for the first time", he went on. "Then, when you sang for me, I knew I'd found not only my TOSCA, but someone much more special and dear." Another, longer pause.
Killian said nothing, but her eyes became moist, and he wasn't sure if it was happiness, or sadness. He hurried on:
"What I am trying, very awkwardly, to say - is that I love you, Killian. I love you with all my heart, and every fibre of my being." His voice cracked with emotion, and he looked squarely into her big, moist, brown eyes and continued:
"Do I, ..... that is, have I a chance? Do you think you could ever learn to love me, too?"
He didn't have to wait long for the answer. Killian reached out for his paw, and taking it in hers, she shyly touched it to her lips. Then she smiled.
He couldn't take his eyes off her as she spoke to him in soft, hushed tones.
"You not only have the greatest chance in the world, dear Tucker, I can assure you that you don't need to wait for me to LEARN to love you. I already do. I have for a long time now." She turned slightly to look at the white foam, and continued slowly.
"It is a love that has been growing, like a lovely flower in my heart; a seed that you planted, and nurtured all through the difficult times, until it came into full bloom ......"
She broke off, unable to speak further because of the tender way he was looking at her. He had looked at her like that in the Operatic duets they had sung together in TOSCA, and now she knew she wasn't seeing just the face of a good actor. She was seeing the eyes of a man who truly loved her.
It was the most natural thing in the world for them to draw close in an embrace which was perfect harmony, just like the music in their hearts.
They strolled together around the Promenade Deck, oblivious to everyone else. It was as if they were the only two on the ship, and in the world.
The following day, they informed Brady, Katie S (Killian's sister) and Sister Ella, of their happy news. They would announce their Engagement during the Wedding celebrations. Until then, it was to be kept a secret. Sister Ella was not at all surprised, and Killian was delighted to see that she approved of the match. Katie S was overjoyed to see her sister so very happy and, well, Brady had known all along that these two were born for each other, so as it was a festive occasion, he celebrated in his usual style, by ordering another box of cigars from the Bar!
Click the pause button on the first tune, then click the white arrow on the second tune. (You'll need to turn the volume up HIGH!)
After the lovely song, and while Killian was still on stage, Captain Guiness beckoned to Tuckerotti to come and stand beside Killian. Then he took both of their paws and joined them in his own, and announced to the passengers and crew present that these two song birds had announced their Engagement, and their desire to 'sing in unison' in the future years.
This news came as a huge surprise to all, and there was a hushed silence, followed by a cheeky fanfare from the Band, and a roar of cheers from the audience.
Killian blushed a deep red, and Tuckerotti put an arm around her and gave her a playful squeeze, much to everyone's delight! Then, the song 'I GIVE MY HEART' - which Killian had just sung - began to play over the loud speakers. Shadow had recorded the whole performance! This had Killian looking embarrassed, and the audience applauding with delight! Tuckerotti joined in the chorus, turning it into a duet. The audience was RAPT!
*******
And so, a special occasion in the history of the Wheaten Princess went on record in the Ship's Log, and in the hearts of everyone on board.
The wedding festivities continued on into the morning hours, but the newly wed couples excused themselves early, and made their way to the special cabins that Captain Guiness had prepared for them.
Tobey and Reilly whispered how they would keep their vows for as long as they lived, and Cody and Morgan repeated the words of the song Killian had sung:
"I give my heart to you, and you alone -"
This news came as a huge surprise to all, and there was a hushed silence, followed by a cheeky fanfare from the Band, and a roar of cheers from the audience.
Killian blushed a deep red, and Tuckerotti put an arm around her and gave her a playful squeeze, much to everyone's delight! Then, the song 'I GIVE MY HEART' - which Killian had just sung - began to play over the loud speakers. Shadow had recorded the whole performance! This had Killian looking embarrassed, and the audience applauding with delight! Tuckerotti joined in the chorus, turning it into a duet. The audience was RAPT!
*******
And so, a special occasion in the history of the Wheaten Princess went on record in the Ship's Log, and in the hearts of everyone on board.
The wedding festivities continued on into the morning hours, but the newly wed couples excused themselves early, and made their way to the special cabins that Captain Guiness had prepared for them.
Tobey and Reilly whispered how they would keep their vows for as long as they lived, and Cody and Morgan repeated the words of the song Killian had sung:
"I give my heart to you, and you alone -"
The day of the Double Weddings came quickly, and Miss Morgan, Miss Katie T, Miss Reilly and Miss MacKenzie Jane were rushing about making those last minute preparations that only girls can! There were appointments at the Beauty Salon; arrangements to be checked out regarding the Reception, the seating, the food, the drinks, the entertainment ..... on and on it went!
The ceremony itself would be held in the Grande Ballroom, then they would move to the Fun Lounge for the Reception. The Band would play, and Shadow had a special programme planned.
During the reception, Killian would sing a special selection for the newly married couples, and later, the announcement of her Engagement to Tuckerotti would be made by The Captain.
******
So the day passed, and the evening came, and everyone packed into the Grande Ballroom to witness the two couples making their vows. Captain Guiness would be the celebrant.
Cody and Tobey, the two Grooms, stood waiting nervously with Jimmy, who was Tobey's Best Man, and Finnegan G who was Cody's brother, and Best Man.
The ceremony itself would be held in the Grande Ballroom, then they would move to the Fun Lounge for the Reception. The Band would play, and Shadow had a special programme planned.
During the reception, Killian would sing a special selection for the newly married couples, and later, the announcement of her Engagement to Tuckerotti would be made by The Captain.
******
So the day passed, and the evening came, and everyone packed into the Grande Ballroom to witness the two couples making their vows. Captain Guiness would be the celebrant.
Cody and Tobey, the two Grooms, stood waiting nervously with Jimmy, who was Tobey's Best Man, and Finnegan G who was Cody's brother, and Best Man.
Shadow had obtained a recording of the Richard Wagner 'BRIDAL CHORUS, from LOHENGRIN', played on a Pipe Organ. This had been Morgan's special request. He was all set to start it up as soon as the Brides appeared at the door.
The signal came from Brady, who was happy to perform the duties of Usher, and the stirring opening chords from the Pipe Organ rang out. Everyone got to their feet.
All present turned their heads to see the two lovely Brides, attended by KatieT and MacKenzie Jane.
The signal came from Brady, who was happy to perform the duties of Usher, and the stirring opening chords from the Pipe Organ rang out. Everyone got to their feet.
All present turned their heads to see the two lovely Brides, attended by KatieT and MacKenzie Jane.
As the last bars of the Bridal Chorus faded, the Brides and their Maids took their places beside the gentlemen who were gazing at them with great admiration.
The ceremony began. They recited their vows to each other, and rings were exchanged.
Captain Guiness made a brief speech about how these two couples had met on his Cruise Ship, the WHEATEN PRINCESS, and how they had announced their engagement at the close of the previous Mediterranean Cruise.
Now, they had returned to seal their love with promises to 'Love and to cherish - from this day forward'.
The couples then signed the register, after which, Captain Guiness introduced them to those present, using the words they were hearing for the first time in their new lives:
"I now present to you, Mr and Mrs Cody Salmons, and Mr and Mrs Tobey Selig!"
The Grande Ballroom erupted with enthusiastic cheers and applause, and the newly-weds were surrounded by happy friends all lining up to shake their paws and wish them many blessings.
Jimmy turned to Tobey and Reilly with a warm smile, and with a firm paw-shake, he wished them both, "MAZEL TOV " - which means, "Congratulations" - and much more.
They moved into the FUN LOUNGE where stewards were waiting to serve them with all kinds of wonderful food and drinks. But first, the Wedding Party had to pose for photographs, which Abby, armed with her camera, was determined to get before the flowers wilted and the gowns were creased!
Killian mounted the stage and whispered something into Shadow's ear. Everyone's eyes were fixed on her.
She announced that she had a special song for the newly-wed couples. It was one of her favourites, and it was entitled I GIVE MY HEART - from the Operetta, Madame Dubarry. (Sung in the original German)
As Shadow began to play the introduction, there was a hushed silence. Then Killian's golden voice rang out, and swept them all away into another world.
The ceremony began. They recited their vows to each other, and rings were exchanged.
Captain Guiness made a brief speech about how these two couples had met on his Cruise Ship, the WHEATEN PRINCESS, and how they had announced their engagement at the close of the previous Mediterranean Cruise.
Now, they had returned to seal their love with promises to 'Love and to cherish - from this day forward'.
The couples then signed the register, after which, Captain Guiness introduced them to those present, using the words they were hearing for the first time in their new lives:
"I now present to you, Mr and Mrs Cody Salmons, and Mr and Mrs Tobey Selig!"
The Grande Ballroom erupted with enthusiastic cheers and applause, and the newly-weds were surrounded by happy friends all lining up to shake their paws and wish them many blessings.
Jimmy turned to Tobey and Reilly with a warm smile, and with a firm paw-shake, he wished them both, "MAZEL TOV " - which means, "Congratulations" - and much more.
They moved into the FUN LOUNGE where stewards were waiting to serve them with all kinds of wonderful food and drinks. But first, the Wedding Party had to pose for photographs, which Abby, armed with her camera, was determined to get before the flowers wilted and the gowns were creased!
Killian mounted the stage and whispered something into Shadow's ear. Everyone's eyes were fixed on her.
She announced that she had a special song for the newly-wed couples. It was one of her favourites, and it was entitled I GIVE MY HEART - from the Operetta, Madame Dubarry. (Sung in the original German)
As Shadow began to play the introduction, there was a hushed silence. Then Killian's golden voice rang out, and swept them all away into another world.
CLICK ON WHITE ARROW TO HEAR SONG
CONTINUED IN PART 7
Copyright - Audrey Plowes - 2009-2010
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