The City Of Love {Stacey}

[Anastacia Potter]

Stacey just pouted her lips a little with Brendan's comment about stopping the elevator if they were alone right now. She tried to stop herself from smiling, so just smirked a bit. If that was the way he wanted it, she could easily get them off at the next level, wait for an empty elevator, and then makethat one stop. But seeing as this hotel seemed rather popular, she doubted that they would be in luck. Stacey did see the glances she was getting from Brendan, and wonder if he was really losing any self control at this point in time. She didn't care, she liked where her hand was at the moment.

When Brendan had given her the gold card, and she made her thoughts be known, he just replied all the more. Brendan was making his thoughts known as well to her as well. Well, it looks like they both were the type to tell it like it was, and that could end up being a good or bad thing. Though Stacey couldn't get mad at Brendan. He was doing all of this for her, and she decided to just give in. "Fine. I will take the damn card." Stacey laughed, and shook her head. He then mentioned her birthday. Stacey rolled her eyes. "I had hoped you would forget. You don't have to do anything for it. I am only turning twenty-five. Not a big milestone or anything." But as soon as Stacey mentioned that, she knew that Brendan would tell her otherwise.

When Brendan said that she would indeed get somthing real pretty to wear, but that she was already beautiful. Off he goes again with the compliments. Stacey knew that all of his compliments were making up for all the ones she never had when growing up. Stacey smiled as Brendan ran his finger down her check, and where it continued down her until it rested on her left breast. Boy, he knew how to turn a girl on. But he had done that from their first meeting.

Stacey nodded when Brendan said that Paris was too far away to be shorter than a week. That was true, what with how long it took them by plane. How long was it going to take by boat home? Luckily she had no job that she had to leave behind for so long. At the mention of Libby, Stacey watched as Brendan took out his wallet to look at her picture. If his parents were anything like Brendan, she was sure to get spoilt. Stacey had been spoilt enough by Brendan, and had already seen him spoil Libby in the short time she had been in their lives.

When Brendan mentioned that he had something special planned for her birthday. Once again she shook her head. "B, you don't have to do anything. But you have planned something, then I can't stop you. Haven't done that so far, unless you count before when I was sick, and it could have ruined the trip." Stacey knew Brendan well enough to know that once he had his head in what he had planned, there was no stopping him. But she like that he knew what he wanted. And apparently it was her.

Stacey could only smile quickly, when Brendan said that that makes both of them, in regards to the apparent agenda. As they kissed, she heard Brendan fiddle with his shirt, trying to get it off of himself. She opened her eyes as he then began to take off her own shirt, which had buttons along the front, so it was easier to just slip it off her arms, then if it had been a tank top or something. Stacey parted from Brendan's lips while he took off her bra next. She was glad that she wore her purple lace one today. Then they were skin to skin at the top half of their bodies. Whatever happened next, Stacey thought, would be magical.

**** 3 Hours later ****

Just as Stacey rested her head on Brendan's shoulder, she felt him stir, and then look at her. She smiled. All the nicknames that he called her she loved. She loved them all, especially 'Bambi', that was her favourite, and the one she always cherished. The feel of his around her waist, felt nice along her naked body. She listened to what he said, and she had to melt at those words. She felt herself go all shy for a minute, and buried her face in his chest. "Well Mr. Harris. I am in totally in love with you as well." Stacey looked up at him, and smiled as he smiled with her. She then kissed him, and then moved her mouth form his to a dimple to kiss it. She knew some girls hated their guy to have any beard growth on their face, but Brendan suited the look so much. She couldn't imagine him any other way, then the way he was.

Brendan pulled apart from her, and said that it was time for them to go and get that beautiful dress of hers. She took his arms, and looked at the time. "Yes we should. So what time do we have to be for whatever you planned?" Maybe it is a dinner reservation or something. It made sense, as it would be dinner time in like 4-5 hours or so anyway. Why else would she dress up. Paris was pretty posh, and she hoped that she found the right dress to fit in.

So Stacey slowly got out of the bed, naked of cause, and soon looked around for the suitcase. She rummaged through what Brendan had packed, and soon found a pair of jeans, and a lavender top, plus some underwear and her toiletries bag. On the way through, Stacey picked up the bra that she had been wearing earlier. She then headed into the bathroom, not bothering to shut the door. The whole time she was in the bathroom, Stacey thought about what Paris was like. She had only read about it in magazines and whatnot, and had never travelled out of the United States. She had come across people who were from other countries, but had never experienced it first hand, being in a foreign country. Only type would tell. Hopefully everyone that they came in contact with would speak some English.

Soon Stacey was dressed, and applied a bit of make up. She didn't want the salespeople thinking that she was some foreigner who knew nothing or didn't belong in the stores that they visited. She wanted to be the one to upmarket them a bit. Stacey went back to Brendan and sat on the bed to put on some shoes. When Brendan was ready to go, she led the way out of the door, and waited for him, holding her bag over her shoulder. And soon they were off to go and get her dress.

As they walked down the street, away from the hotel, Stacey wrapped one arm around his waist, and pulled herself close to him. It still felt a bit weird to be in Paris, but she would have to get used to it all for a whole week. Could she do that? She would for Brendan's sake. She loved him so much, it sometimes hurt to be away from him. When he worked, she would always text him a few times during the day, sometimes wondering if she was being too much of a smouthering girlfriend. But he would always answer every one.

They soon stopped at a store, which sold some nice dresses for women, and then one dress stood out for her. There were several pictures of new dresses that had come in, and the dress that she had her eye on for a few seconds just grabbed her attention.

Stacey turned to Brendan, and smiled. "I think I will go in here, if that is okay." She waited to see what he said, and then went in. She looked around until she spotted the dress that was being advertised in the window. Stacey quickly found her size, and headed into the dressing room. She didn't even look back to see where Brendan was. She just wanted to try on the dress. As she slipped it on, it seemed to fit so nice. Finally when it was zipped up, Stacey pushed open the door, and walked out.

[brendan]

Brendan caught Stacey smirking after what he said about stopping the elevator if she kept doing what she was doing. But it was true, she was turning him on so much, he could feel his private guy beginning to say hello, so now he'd have to make sure he kept himself facing the elevator doors. He was definitely loving this mischievous side to Stacey, and what was more, it was bringing out his own. He was also finding it incredibly difficult to stop glancing at her, because he just loved her so much and really it was taking him all his effort, not to just press another floor, kick out the other people, then stop the elevator. Damn, what was she doing to him? But he loved it.

When Stacey said she would take the damn card and laughed, Brendan just winked and smirked, "Tha's ma girl." Then, just so as she wouldn't think he was going to be one of these demanding, you have to obey and do everything I say type of guys, he said in a softer voice, as he ran his hand through her hair, "Though, if wanna work, I ain't really gonna stop ya. Am jus' sayin' ya don' hafta an' I don' expect ya to." When he had brought up her birthday, he could only shake his head at the words she spoke.

"Ferget? How could I ferget ma beautiful Bambi's birthday? An' I damn well know I don' hafta do anythin' fer ya, an' turnin' twenty-five is a milestone, means yer a quarter of a century old." He winked and chuckled after saying that, but continued to run his hands through his hair. "Fer gods sakes woman, jus' let me spoil ya." He shook his head again then and laughed. He loved the independent streak she had, and he wouldn't want her any other way, but it wouldn't stop him from doing what he wanted, regardless of what she said.

He was glad Stacey understood the length of time they were going to be in Paris for. It just didn't seem right to come all this way for a weekend or something. Then the fact that they were taking a cruise back home, he may have to ask his folks to watch Libby for an extra week, but he somehow didn't think they would have too much of a problem with that.

Brendan just chuckled when she told him once more he didn't have to plan anything for her birthday, but that she knew if he'd planned something, she couldn't stop him. "Damn righ' ya can' stop me Bambi." He laughed again, and leaned in to kiss her then. She could be a stubborn woman, but then he was a stubborn guy, they were made for each other, it was obvious. "So stop fussin' abou' it, this is ma special trip fer ya, so jus' let it happen, go with the flow an' all tha'." He ran his hand through her hair again and leaned in for another kiss.

"An' we ain't talkin' abou' tha' plane trip, wha' happened, happened, ain't nothin' none of us could have done abou' it. Let's jus' ferget it an' look forward to the rest of the week." He had so many surprises planned, he couldn't wait for them to all unfold, but like earlier, knew he was wishing the week away. Although, they now had an extra week to look forward to now they were taking a cruise back home. He would have to make sure to book that online as soon as possible. Yeah, Brendan packed his laptop, it was basically for sending e-mails to Libby to keep her updated on the trip.

Then they had the magical moment on the bed, as he had thought in the elevator earlier, it wouldn't take long for them to use that bed, with the way they had both been acting, and he had been proved right.

**** 3 hours later ****

After Brendan had told Stacey he was one hundred percent in love with her, he saw bury her head into his chest, and he just leaned his head down toward her and kissed the top of her head, and then she said she was totally in love with him as well. A deep smile spread over his face then, so they had both just admitted they were in love with each other, which meant what he was planning should go very well indeed. He grinned at her words and then she kissed him, which he returned and then her lips went to his dimple, which made him smile, which made the dimples come out even more. God he loved her.

When Stacey asked what time they had to be ready for, for what ever he had planned, Brendan grinned at her. "We hafta be there fer six thirty, so by time we get ready an' get out, should give us jus' under three hours." He was going on the fact that with it being almost two already, that it would be nearer two thirty before they left the hotel, and then however long it might take Stacey to find something to wear.

While Stacey was rummaging for clothes to wear and went into the bathroom to change, Brendan got out a clean pair denims and a casual t-shirt, as it looked as if it was quite nice weather outside, and then splashed some of his Cool Water aftershave on to freshen himself up a little and ran his hands through his hair. He'd have to remember and guy more of that aftershave while he was in Paris, and try to remember to maybe buy the Cool Water Woman for Stacey. They'd have matching colognes then.

Once Stacey was ready, Brendan took her hand, and off they went. And as he thought, by the time they hit the central shops, it was already hitting three in the afternoon. He saw quite a few dresses in different windows as they were walking, and almost all of them he thought Stacey would look stunning in, but he was leaving the dress choice to Stacey. What ever she wanted, she could have.

As they walked Stacey had put her arm around his waist and he automatically wrapped one of his arms around her own waist, and as she pulled him close to her, he would pull her close to him every so often. This was just so magical, he was loving being able to spend so much time with Stacey. He couldn't do it the same back in Las Vegas because of his job at The Chronicle, but being Assistant Editor gave him great perks, he was able to just take a day off when he wanted. And he did.

At some point, not sure how long they had been walking and looking in windows, Stacey stopped and turned to Brendan and said she wanted to go into that particular shop, asking him if it was okay to do so. Brendan winked at her, "Sure Bambi, course it is." He then held the door open for her and watched as she went straight to a dress and headed for the dressing room. Brendan didn't even feel out of his depth in the shop, he just stood by the dressing room wondering if she'd step out in what she had picked so he could see what she looked like wearing it. He hadn't got a good enough look at it when she picked it up.

Soon enough though, Stacey walked out and Brendan's eyes lit up immediately and a grin spread across his face, she looked absolutely stunning. But then it was nothing less than he had expected. He walked up to her and ran his hands down her arms. "Tha's simply perfect Bambi, perfect." He then leaned in to kiss her, not giving a damn that he was in a busy shop. He then winked at her, "Well go on, go use tha' card I gave ya an' buy it, cause we gotta be headin' back to the hotel soon to get ready fer the nigh'." He said softly into her ear, as he waited for her to go back into the dressing room and change, so she could buy the dress.

Once she came back out with the dress in her hands, Brendan put his arm on the small of her back and walked toward the cashier's desk, just in case the women at the counter didn't speak English and he may have to step in with the few phrases he had learned before their trip. Brendan then realised he didn't have a suit, he hadn't ever really had the need to buy one, when he had been at Peter and Becca's wedding he had just dressed smartly and hired a suit. Damn he thought.

"Bambi, I'll be back in a bit, I jus' realised I need to get maself a suit fer the nigh'." He laughed then at his own bad memory. He had seen a shop right next to the one Stacey was in which seemed to have suits for sale, so he went in there and had a quick look around and soon found the one he thought fitted the occasion.

He then made his way back into the store Stacey was in, with his suit on a hanger, as he didn't want it crushed and soon found her. "Alrigh' ready to go then?" He asked, and winked at her, he couldn't wait to get this evening started.

[Anastacia Potter]

Stacey just rolled her eyes, when Brendan said 'that's ma girl', when she gave in to take the card. Then she listened when he talked about her working if she wanted to. Well, Stacey thought, it just depended on what was out there for work around Las Vegas really. Then after Stacey said about not celebrating her birthday, she watched him shake his head, and commented about how could he forget, and that it was a milestone. "Well I never really thought about it that way. I just always thought other birthdays were milestones, but anyway." So she was going to have something special for that day by the looks of it.

A few minutes later, when Stacey mentioned the birthday thing, he told her to stop worrying, and let him spoil her. Fine, she thought. It might just be the proper birthday she was after, after all. Stacey never really had a proper eighteenth, or twenty-first, what with not living with her parents. She hated her life back then, and was too ashamed at what she had been doing with her life, besides going to collage.

**** 3 Hours Later ****

When Stacey had leaned into his chest, he kissed her head. After they said that they were in love, and she had kissed a dimple, they were more prominant, as Brendan smiled even more. Stacey then listened to when they had to be wherever they had to be later. So she had sometime to get ready, if she was quick in finding a dress suitable, and elegant. Well elegant enough for the Paris nightlife. Lucky she had some idea of how to do her hair and stuff, or that might be something else she might have had to look into.

Once Stacey was ready to go, and Brendan took her hand, she could smell something quite nice. She lent into his neck and smelt it. "Mmm..." Stacey murmured. Whatever he was wearing, it always smelt so nice, and very masculin. Then they were soon outside, and on the streets of Paris. Stacey did see him looking at the different stores along the way, but nothing was really standing out for her. It only happened when she saw 'that dress'. Stacey didn't know why, but she was drawn to it. Maybe it was because it was shiny, something she didn't normally go for, but the colour was nice, and only a small amount of lace, which was just enough.

So when Brendan winked at her, and opened the door, she instantly went in, and grabbed the dress off the rack. When she got out of the dressing room in the dress, Brendan's eyes just lit up. She could have just taken him right there and then. He looked so happy with her dress choice. Then he lent in and kissed her. Boy, they were doing a lot of this lovey dovey stuff in the past few hours. But Stacey loved it. She felt like she was being spoilt by the most gorgeous guy around. She almost had to ask him to pinch her.

When he winked and said to go and use the card that he gave her, Stacey smiled. "Why not." So Stacey went back into the change room, and took off the fabulous dress. Stacey then put on her own clothes and then came out of the change room. She then let Brendan guide her over to the sales assistant, where she would use her card for the first time. Just as she was about to use the card, Brendan said that he would be back, and that he had to get himself a suit for tonight. Stacey nodded, "Okay, but don't be too long. I will wait here for you." So Stacey continued to wait for the saleswoman to ring up her purchases, and then handed over her card.

Just then Brendan came back in, and he had a suit in his hand on a hanger. He then asked her if she was ready to go. Stacey nodded. "Yes I am B." The saleswoman handed Stacey her dress, which was in a dress bag. She turned and thanked her, and then headed out with Brendan. She couldn't believe that she had bought a dress that cost so much, but she loved it all the same. Stacey could't wait to see Brendan in a tux. She was sure that he would look handsome.

**** 1 1/2 hours later ****

Stacey had about ten more minutes to make herself all beautiful for Brendan, even though earlier he had told her that she was already, without the dress. That could have been taken either way, but she did like to get dressed up, only if necessary, and this was one of those times. Though Stacey had no idea what they were doing, but she had persumed that there would be food involved somewhere along the line. She looked in the mirror as she applied her lipstick, chosing the softer colour, as she had a bit of eye make up, trying to load he face with too much of it.

She then sprayed on some musk perfume, and then step out of the bathroom. Stacey clip clopped out ot Brendan, wearing her heels. That was one good thing that he did pack, or she would have had to buy them as well. She slowly spun around, and smiled. "So, how do I look?"

[brendan]

When Stacey said that she hadn't thought of her twenty-fifth birthday being a milestone until Brendan had said she was a quarter of a century old, he just winked and chuckled. Well she might not have wanted a fuss being made of her on her birthday, but she was damn well going to get a fuss made of her and he didn't care. It was up to him if he wanted to spoil her and he would, she would just have to get used to the fact that he loved her and because of this he would do everything he could to treat her the way she should be treated.

When Brendan told Stacey she was stop worrying about her birthday and to let him spoil her, she didn't say anything. Sometimes when that happened, Brendan didn't know if it was a good sign or a bad sign. But even the best relationships had their off moments, right? But he was going to take the silence as a surrender from her, rather than a snub, so he just smirked to himself.

**** 3 hours later ****

When they were getting ready to leave and Stacey leaned into his neck and he heard her murmur 'Mmm...' he could only smirk again as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Like tha' do ya? Hafta get maself more of it while we're here, maybe I can get ya the Cool Water Woman?" He then grinned at her, and winked before continuing with, "I mean, wouldn' it be cool to have matchin' scents?" He was of course then semi teasing her, and he laughed after it.

Brendan grinned when Stacey agreed to use the card he gave her to buy the dress. He knew it was expensive, just because the store they were in was Prada, but he didn't give a damn, nothing was too expensive for his Stacey, and besides the cost of the dress was still just like a few pennies out of his millions he had. Not that Brendan liked particularly boasting about his wealth, but when it came to showering the special women in his life, he loved showing off the fact he could do it without a second thought.

While Stacey was buying her dress, Brendan had realised he needed to get a suit, and so he said he would be back soon, when Stacey told him not to be too long. He nuzzled into her neck, "Don' worry sweetheart, I'll be back afore ya know it." He had then left and went into the store next door which was an Armani shop. He got a lovely slate grey suit and explained to the cashier he would be using it that night, so they left it on the hanger for him, with the special protective covering and quickly made his way back into the Prada store to get Stacey.

When Stacey said she was ready to go, he draped his suit over his left arm and reached over to take the dress from Stacey and draped it over his left arm on top of his suit and then put his right arm around Stacey's waist. "Alrigh' then, let's go." He then led the way out of the store and continued to walk the journey back to the hotel. As they walked, he kept leaning in toward her and hugging her to him, for no other reason other than he was totally in love with her and he loved showing her just how much. He then leaned in to her, "Ya know, yer gonna look so damned beautiful tonigh' ya complete me." He then stopped walking then, and took his arm from around her waist and lifted her hand, and placed it on top his chest roughly where his heart would be. "An' ya belong in ma heart ferever." He then kissed her quickly but with enough passion before wrapping his arm around her waist again and continuing to head back to the hotel.

After that, it didn't take too long for them to reach the Hilton Hotel again, and soon they were heading to their floor in the elevator, only this time there was none of the mischievousness going on between them. He couldn't wait to see Stacey all made up for their night, but he knew she would be beautiful, because she always was anyway.

**** 1 & 1/2 hours later ****

While Stacey was getting ready, Brendan did the same thing, changing into the tux he had bought earlier, wearing a white shirt and a silver grey tie to match. He then made sure he had the ring in his pocket, which he did. Brendan was ready a little bit before Stacey, so while he was waiting for her, he set up his laptop, the room came with wireless broadband which was great for him.

The first thing he did was to check his e-mails, and sure enough there was one from Libby, she had sent him a photograph of herself and his parents, where they had taken her to an amusement park. She told him that they were having a great time, and she loved her grandparents as much as she loved him and Stacey. His heart melted. So he sent her a quick reply back, saying everything was going great so far, apart from Stacey being sick on the flight on the way here. That he hadn't actually proposed yet, but he'd tell her all about it when he had.

He then went onto the Royal Caribbean Cruises web site and checked out availability for a cruise leaving Paris on the fourth of July, and he was lucky to find they had some spaces available on one of their vessels. He booked a first class private cabin and then once he had done that, and got the confirmation ticket, he set up his mobile printer and printed it off, keeping it with the rest of the travel documents he had safely hidden away in his brief case.

Just then he heard the clicky sounds of heels and he closed the laptop and looked at Stacey with a big grin on his face. He stood up and walked toward her, his eyes sparkling, and took her left hand in his own and kissed the back of her hand, before looking up at her, "Beautiful, absolutely beautiful Stacey." He then held his arm out to her, "So, shall we?" He waited for her to reply and then began leading the way down to the hotel foyer. Now the restaurant he had booked wasn't that far away from the hotel, but he had gone all out for this special occasion, and when they finally got outside, there was a limousine waiting for them both.

The Limousine



Inside

The chauffeur stepped out of the limo and came round and opened the door. Brendan gave Stacey a quick kiss, "Ladies first." Once he was sure Stacey was inside, Brendan slipped in beside her. He had asked for the chauffeur to take the limo round the block before dropping them off at the restaurant, more so that Stacey and he could be in it longer, than they really would have been.

There was a bottle of wine in an ice bucket with a couple of glasses, and even though Brendan knew they would only be in the limo for a few moments, he poured them out a half glass each and handed Stacey one over. He grinned, and clinked his glass with her own. "To us, an' a perfect week, an' a perfect evenin'." He then leaned in to kiss her then.

Ten minutes later the limo had been round the block and was slowing down, pulling outside the restaurant. Basically it was right next door to the hotel and Tower, but Brendan was in a very romantic mood and just had to get the limousine. The chauffeur then came and opened their door again, Brendan got out, and then held his hand out to help Stacey out, and once she was on her feet outside, he held his arm out for her to take again, and he walked her proudly into the restaurant he had booked.

Le Bouillon Racine Restaurant

As they walked in a waiter came toward them and spoke in English but with a thick French accent, "Good evening Monsieur." Brendan smiled at him, "Reservation for Harris please." "Of course, of course, follow me please Monsieur." He then lead them to a table toward the back of the first floor, the table had a small vase in the middle with a single red rose inside and candles burning. It was the perfect start to what Brendan hoped would be a perfect evening.

He pulled out the chair for Stacey and when she was sitting down, he sat down himself opposite her and then reached his hands across the table to take her own. "So wha' d'ya think?"

[Anastacia Potter]

Stacey could only smile a little at what Brendan said about getting her the same stuff that he was wearing. The scent was just alluring to Stacey, and she nodded in acknowledgement. It would be nice to have something similiar to what he was wearing, in order to remember how he smelled. When Brendan said that it would be cool to have matching scents, all Stacey could do was look at him, and roll her eyes smirking.

When Stacey had told him not too be too long, when he had to get his suit, she got goosebumps as he nuzzled her neck. She didn't know why, but it happened. Just him being close to her always made her warm and fuzzy inside. Hardly any guys had done that to her, and she just knew that a guy to make her feel that way was surely a keeper. When Brendan came back, in order for them to go, he took her dress off of her, and placed it over his arm, which was also carrying his suit. She couldn't see it, so had no idea what he had bought. But she knew that whatever he wore, would look good on him.

All the way back to the hotel, Brendan has his arm around her waist, occassionally leaning into her, and hugging her close to his body. Stacey had her arm around him as well, and when he did bring her in close, she would bring her other arm around to the front on Brendan, and give him a gentle sqeeeze. Halfway back, Brendan leaned in at one point, and said that she was going to look damn beautiful tonight, and that she completed him. After this, Brendan stopped, and took her hand, placing it on his chest. What he said next, brought those goosebumps back, and she felt a little light headed. Stacey felt her eyes begin to water, but not enough for tears to fall. Then he kissed her briefly, but she felt the passion behind it. When they parted, she let him wrap his arm around her waist again. Stacey lent her head on his shoulder, as she too put her arm around Brendan. As they continued to walk, she looked up at him. "And you Mr. Harris belong in my heart as well. You don't know how much."

As they headed up to their room, Stacey was getting excited and a little nervous. She had no idea what Brendan had planned for her and them tonight. All she cared about was that she was there with him, and that she loved him with all of her heart.

**** 1 1/2 hours later ****

Well it seemed to be a good sign about how she looked, as she saw a big grin on his face. Brendan walked over to her, took her hand, and kissed it. When he said that she was beautiful, Stacey felt a blush come over her, and she looked down at the floor. She had hoped that she did, especially with how much the dress cost. She then looked up at him, and smiled warmly, "Well thank you Mr. Harris." For some reason, she had started calling him that, maybe it was just another nickname, one she would be using when she was thanking him when he complimented her. Well it fit for that reason.

Stacey took Brendan's hand, and smiled. "Yes, we shall." Then Brendan led her down to the hotel foyer, where she saw a limo waiting outside for them. Her eyes lit up, thinking that she was in a fairy tale, and this was her coach to go to the ball. Stacey watched as the chauffeur stepped out of the limo, and opened the door for them. Brendan then kissed her, and said 'ladies first', so Stacey let go of Brendan's hand, and she slipped inside the limo, making sure that she left enough room for Brendan to get in beside her. Once Brendan was in, the door was shut, and the limo started and drove off.

Stacey watched Brendan go and fill two glasses halfway with wine. He then handed her a glass, and clinked his glass with hers. He made a toast to a perfect week and perfect night. Stacey had to agree, smiling at him. "Yes. And to the perfect company." Then Brendan leaned over and kissed Stacey. What a fantastic start to the evening. What more could a girl wish for?

Ten minutes later, the limo stopped. The chauffeur came out, and opened the door for them. Stacey watched as Brendan got out, and then he held his hand out for her to take in order to get out. Once they were out, Stacey took Brendan's arm, and they headed inside to the restaurant. She turned and noticed that the restaurant was right next to where they were staying, but she didn't way anything.

A waiter met them inside, and Brendan gave over the name the reservation was under. Then the waiter asked them to follow him to a table towards the back of the room. Stacey noticed that there was another level upstairs, but this floor was fine. She didn't care where they were, as long as she was with Brendan. As they neared the table, Stacey saw a small vase, which held a red rose in the centre of the table. Also it had candles alight as well. It was quite a nice setting.

Brendan pulled out the chair for Stacey. "Thanks B," Stacey said as she sat down. She watched as Brendan went around and sat in the chair opposite her. His hands reached across the table towards her, and she took them in her own. What did she think? Smiling, with her eyes bright, Stacey couldn't hold back what she had been feeling all this time. "Brendan, it is wonderful. You have really outdone yourself so far on this trip. You have to know that I feel like I am in a fairy tale. I'm the ordinary person, who now feels like a princess, and is now at the ball. You have spoilt me so much. Thank you." Stacey didn't want to cry, but she felt tears of happiness beginning to flood her eyes now.

Stacey let go of Brendan's hands, and quickly wiped at her eyes before the tears would definately fall. She laughed a little. "Look what you do to me." Laughing a little again, they were soon interrupted by another waiter. "Good evening. Would you like to order your meal?" Stacey waited for Brendan to say something. Then the waiter looked at Stacey. "Oh." Looking down at the menu, she saw it was all in French. Where was the English, thought Stacey." So as not to embarrass herself, Stacey smiled at the waiter. "Could I get the chicken please." The waiter nodded, and scribbled down her order, and then the waiter took Brendan's order.

Once the waiter was gone, Stacey spoke. "I had no idea what was on that menu, but I knew that most places surely had to serve chicken." She hoped she didn't sound dumb at that point, but it was true. Most places she had gone to around America always had some chicken meal or dish. Though Stacey had never been to a posh restaurant, so had no idea, but had a gut feeling.

[brendan]

When Stacey rolled her eyes and smirked when Brendan commented on them having matching scents, it was pretty much the reaction he had hoped to get, as he was sort of teasing, but he would take a note to make sure he bought her the cologne at some point during their trip. So he just smiled at her, showing those ever powerful dimples.

After they had both bought their outfits for the evening, they began to make their way back to the hotel. Brendan was simply bursting with pride having Stacey with him, he really did love her so much, and couldn't wait for the day where he could walk into the office and say, 'here's ma beautiful wife Stacey'. As he thought about that, he got a warm feeling run through him and a deep smile spread across his face.

The way they were walking was so sweet, with Brendan leaning in and hugging her ever so often, and Stacey would do the same squeezing him every now and then. When Brendan had stopped her and told she would love beautiful later, and told her she belonged in his heart forever, he had kissed her and as they began to walk again, he saw Stacey look up at him, and winked at her, then Stacey said he belonged in her heart as well. "Ya have no idea how much tha' means to me." He replied as he bent down and kissed the top of her head as he pulled her to him again.

**** 1 & 1/2 hours later ****

Brendan grinned again when Stacey thanked him for saying she looked beautiful, and he had noticed she had begun to call him Mr. Harris a lot. Oh, he so couldn't wait to reply with 'well thank ya Mrs. Harris', how good would that be? Thinking about that made him touch the ring in his pocket, he really hoped that she would love the rest of the evening he had planned, although he had to guess she would, since she seemed to have been thrown with everything he had done so far, and it wasn't anywhere near half of what he had planned.

As they left the hotel, Brendan saw Stacey's eyes light up when she saw the limo waiting outside, which made him grin, another good surprise. Well he seemed to be doing alright with the surprises now, after the disaster of the flight. If he wanted to get his pilot license when he got back to get a private jet, he'd have to maybe take Stacey to hypnosis, see if they could get her over her fear of flying, as it would be great to just take off somewhere when ever they wanted without having to pay for commercial flights.

Brendan tilted his head to the side and smiled, with his eyes sparkling when Stacey toasted the evening by adding 'and to the perfect company', "Well I gotta agree with tha' one hundred percent, I couldn' ask fer better company maself." He then kissed her making it linger for a few seconds, it would have been minutes, but he knew they would be stopping soon.

Once they were inside the restaurant and Brendan had taken Stacey's hands in his own and asked her what she thought, he was really happy with her response, although he hadn't meant to make her cry. But he knew they were tears of happiness, he was getting quite good at telling the difference between happy and sad tears.

When Stacey spoke to him, he was gushing at her words, but one word stuck out, the word 'ordinary', that was so wrong, well to Brendan anyway. He squeezed her hands gently, and shook his head, "Ya were never ordinary Bambi, I knew ya were special from the moment I set eyes on ya, an' ya shoulda been treated like a princess long ago, but am sure glad am the one whose gettin' to do it." He winked at her then, and showed off those dimples once more as he smiled deeply at her.

After she spoke Brendan noticed tears flood her eyes and then she had said look what he did to her with a laugh. "Well I ain't meanin' to make ya cry, but sure am glad it's cause I've done a good thing. I might not cry, well tha' often anyway..." He trailed off remembering how he had cried when he found out about Libby, then he shook his head and went back to what he was trying to say to Stacey, "...but trust me when I say ya do plenty to me an' all, an' it mostly revolves around the heart an' well I'll leave the other thing to yer imagination." He winked at her, giving her a mischievous look, just as the waiter came to take their order.

Brendan never thought about the menu being in French, he wasn't good at reading it himself either, so when Stacey then asked for chicken, he thought he'd be safe and just do the same thing. "Chicken for me too please, but if yer doin' vegetables, I don' wan' any sprouts thanks." The waiter nodded and took their order away, and Brendan leaned over to Stacey and said, "Hate those things, they ain't righ' fer humanity." He was of course referring to the sprouts he had said he didn't want. He then chuckled after it.

"I couldn' read the menu either Bambi, so yer not alone, am sure we'll both be safe with the chicken dish." He grinned at her then, and a waiter approached again, and began pouring white wine into their glasses and then left the bottle in the bucket of ice on their table. Brendan nodded his head by way of thanks. Then another waiter came pushing a dessert trolley, which had various desserts on it, but with a clear plastic covering, so they were kept fresh but it was easy to see what they had. "Would you Sir and Madam like anything from the desserts?" He asked, and Brendan saw immediately they had a lush strawberry cheesecake, and he had a killer sweet tooth, he was definitely going to have a slice of that.

"Stacey?" He asked her, waiting for her to order what she wanted, when she had, Brendan then spoke, "An' I'll have the strawberry cheesecake please." The waiter nodded, "Very well, will bring them to you after your meals." He then left them alone. Brendan couldn't believe how magical this evening was starting off.

**** 2 hours later ****

The meal and dessert were simply delicious, the restaurant was probably one of the best ones near the Eiffel Tower, Brendan paid the bill and left a rather generous tip, and then he stood up, helped Stacey out of her chair, and once again held his arm out for her to take. "Now fer the second part of this special evenin'." He winked then, and began to walk Stacey out of the restaurant and headed in the general direction of the Eiffel Tower, which would only take them minutes to reach.

He then stood and looked up at the tower, which was now all lit up, as darkness had already began to fall. "An' this is why I asked ya earlier if ya had a fear of heights, cause we're goin' up to the top." He grinned, as he continued to walk Stacey to the entrance of the Tower and called for the lift.

How The Tower Looked

Once they were inside the lift it took a few moments to reach the top, and then the elevator doors opened, and Brendan kept a tight hold of Stacey's hands just in case she should start to feel shaky about the height, but he slowly walked toward the edge and looked out across at the city of Paris all lit up. It was simply beautiful. "Look at tha' Bambi, doesn' it look gorgeous?" There were other people around them of course, Brendan might have been able to organise a lot of things, but he didn't have the power, pardon the pun, to get the Eiffel Tower to themselves for the night.

Just then, as he had pointed out across the scene, fireworks began to go off, so the sky right now was looking pretty much like this.

Yes, Brendan might not have had the power to get the Eiffel Tower to himself, not that he cared, flashy public proposal was the way to go, but he did have the ability to pay for the fireworks which were now being set off. He pulled Stacey to him and hugged her close, as he kept watching each one sparkle in the sky, just like his own eyes were doing right now.

After about twenty minutes of fireworks, Brendan knew they were coming to an end, because he had asked for a half hour display and the final ten minutes was going to be, well, you will find out. He reached into his back pocket with his left hand, while his right arm was still hugging Stacey to him. There was one final big bang of a firework and then a whole lot went off at once and this was what it showed.

He then turned to her, and produced the box he had a hold off, and opened it so she could see the ring, and just looked at her with tears in his eyes as he hoped for the answer to be yes.

The Ring

The ring had an inscription on the inside which said, 'Bambi, you belong in my heart forever'.

[Anastacia Potter]

Just hearing Brendan's reply to her toast, when they clinked glasses, saying that he couldn't ask for better company himself. And then Brendan kissed Stacey. It lingered for so long, it felt like the world had stopped, and that they were the only two people that matter at that point in time. His kisses over the last few hours had been fantastic, passionate, and mind blowing at the same time. She was truly, madly, deeply in love with this man.

Stacey knew that she was probably knew that she was going over the top saying all that stuff to Brendan at the table in the restaurant, but it was all true. Then Brendan gently sqeezed her hands, and shook his head. Here it comes, throught Stacey. He was going to tell her that she was being silly. But what Brendan said just hit the right spot. Maybe she wasn't ordinary in his eyes after all. He had done all of these things for her, and only her. He then winked and smiled, showing off those dimples. This moment was meant to be romantic, but she was just wanting to be next to him again, back at the hotel.

Of cause Brendan commented about her crying, only because she brought it up. Though she was glad to see a softer side to Brendan, back when Libby had come into their lives. He had shown so many sides of himself to her, and all good once at that. Then she listened to when he said that she did plenty for him, acknowledging love stuff, and also other things, which Stacey smirked at a little. She understood perfectly.

Then the waiter came. She of cause ordered, and then Brendan ordered as well. To her surprise he ordered the same thing. Stacey had never thought about what would be with the chicken, so piped up. "Oh, and no carrots for me either. Thanks." The waiter nodded, scribbled that down, and went to place their order. Brendan then leaned in and commented about the sprouts. Stacey smiled. "I just don't like carrots on their own. In stews and stuff it is fine, but when I was younger never even ate them in that. Would always pick them out." At least they were getting to know what each other didn't like, in regards to food. Was always good to know.

Stacey was glad that Brendan couldn't read the menu either, so it then made sense about why he ordered the same. The waiter then came around and poured some white wine in each of their glasses, and then left the bottle. No sooner had he left, when the dessert cart came by. All of what they had to offer looked so delicious. Brendan asked what she wanted first. Stacey's eyes roamed over the display, and then her eyes fell on the one thing she loved. "I think I would like to order the chocolate mousse cheesecake thank you." She could just imagine how it was going to taste. Then Brendan ordered the strawberry cheesecake. Stacey couldn't wait for dessert, and whatever else Brendan had planned for the rest of the night.

**** 2 hours later ****

Stacey could not fault anything about the meal that they had just shared at the restaurant. Every bit of the chicken dish was mouth wateringly good, and the dessert was to die for. Also the company was just fabulous, of cause. Stacey watched as Brendan paid the bill, and then they got up. Brendan offered his arm once again, and then said that it was now time for the second part. He walked her out of the restaurant, and in the direction of the Eiffel Tower.

It looked so pretty, all lit up, and up close it did look rather tall. "Wow," was all Stacey could muster up. All day that they had been there, they had seen it in a distance of a couple of streets, but seeing it this close, was just mind blowing. Brendan then mentioned why he had asked her if she had a fear of heights. Looking up at the tower, and then at Brendan, she smiled weakly. "Well for your sake, I hope not." She then followed Brendan to the elevator, and waited for it to come and let them in to go all the way to the top.

The elevator soon got them to the top, and she held onto Brendan's hand, which he had held onto as soon as the doors open. She followed him slowly towards the edge of the plateform, and the stopped a few steps from the edge, just in case she got dizzy, and spoiled the night. When Brendan asked Stacey if she thought that the sight was gorgeous, she nodded. "It does Brendan. The whole city just looks like it is a million stars, and we are looking down on all of them. "It kind of reminds me of that scene in Moulin Rouge, where they are dancing on the clouds, near the Eiffel Tower." That movie was so good.

Stacey noticed others around them, and hoped that she wouldn't make a fool of herself by fainting or something at the view so high up, but just thinking about the movie, made her feel a bit better. Maybe she should have thought about something different when she was feeling like shit in the plane. Too late now. When Brendan pointed out the city, fireworks began to go off in the distance. "Wow. They are beautiful." Stacey had always loved watching fireworks, but not when she was really young. They were always too loud for her liking.

As the fireworks went off, Stacey was pulled into Brendan, where he hugged her. She returned the hug, with her own. She felt her heart beating so fast, but that might be from knowing how high they in fact were, or it could be that she was thinking how right it felt to be with Brendan right here, right now. Twenty minutes had passed, and they had stood and watched the fireworks go off. Stacey was always amazed at the colours that they gave off, and saw a few that she loved the most.

At this moment Stacey had her arms around Brendan's neck, cuddling in as she continued to watch the fireworks. Stacey felt Brendan move a little, but she didn't move from the spot she was in. Then there was a big bang from the fireworks, smaller ones went off all at once, and Stacey's legs almost gave way at what she was seeing in amongst the fireworks. There right in front of her eyes, the fireworks spelled out a message. She knew it was meant for her, as it said her full name. Stacey felt her heart stop in her chest, and her breath caught in her throat.

Brendan then turned to her, which led to her removing her arms from his neck. He produced a box in front of her and opened it, to reveal a silver ring. An engagement ring. She felt like she was looking at it with her mouth open for so long. Then blinked, and looked up at Brendan. She could see he had tears in his eyes, which let to her to start the waterworks on her end. Stacey put her left hand straight up to her mouth, and bit on her bottom lip. Then the tears started to fall.

Though that was only the start of the emotions. Through those tears, Stacey smiled widely at Brendan. "Yes ... I will," Stacey said quietly. Then without hesitating, she flung her arms around his neck, and said louder, "Yes I will marry you Mr. Brendan Harris."

[brendan]

The kisses Brendan had been giving Stacey all day since they had arrived in Paris, he had been putting his all into them, giving each one deep passion, because he was so passionately and utterly, madly in love with her. This was really how it was meant to feel. He did think he'd felt it before, maybe he had, but it really was nothing, absolutely nothing like this. This was pure love, and he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Stacey. There wasn't going to be anybody else for him now.

Brendan smirked back mischievously to Stacey when she obviously understood exactly what he meant when he said that she did plenty to him as well, including something he'd leave to her imagination. Well she obviously thought of the same thing he had been thinking of himself. They were definitely on the same page with that thought, and it made Brendan smirk all the more when he thought about that.

When Brendan had told the waiter he didn't want any sprouts with his chicken, Stacey then spoke up saying she didn't want any carrots. He then listened to what she said about them. "Well, at least we both know wha' vegetables we don' care fer much." Brendan chuckled slightly, but it was good, at least he knew if he was making a chicken dinner for Stacey when they were back home, not to make carrots, and naturally there'd be no sprouts.

When the dessert trolley came by, Brendan had waited for Stacey to order what she wanted first, and he had to nod his head in approval at her choice. It was almost as good as his own choice, but Brendan had always favoured strawberry over any other kind of cheesecake. Maybe because he loved the idea of strawberry dipped in chocolate sauce. Something which he had put on order for the hotel room when they got back there, as well as champagne.

**** 2 hours later ****

They had now finished their meal and dessert, and Brendan couldn't fault the restaurant, the service or their food, everything really had been simply delicious. It hadn't been an overly expensive meal, not to the extent some restaurants could charge, but it had been worth every cent he had paid for it, including the generous tip he'd left.

He had then escorted Stacey out of the restaurant and headed in the direction of the Tower, it really did look so beautiful all lit up like it was, but as he glanced at Stacey, he realised it still wasn't anywhere near as beautiful as his girl was. He had then waited for Stacey's reaction, and her one word of 'wow' told him pretty much everything he needed to know. When he had then mentioned the height of the Tower was why he had asked if she had a fear of heights, she had said she hoped not for his sake. Well he secretly hoped that also, but he'd make sure she didn't get too near the edge.

"Well, I sure hope not an' all, but don' worry, we don' hafta go too near the edge, I'll keep ya safe." He snuggled into her then, he would always keep her safe, nobody would ever hurt his Stacey again, in fact, nobody would ever hurt his family, ever, he'd make sure of that. Once they were in the elevator it didn't take too long for them to reach the top, and once they did, he noticed Stacey didn't go too near the edge anyway. Which was good, because he wasn't expecting her to go too near the edge, just in case.

When Brendan had asked Stacey if the view looked gorgeous, she had agreed that it did, and then spoke of it reminding her of a scene from Moulin Rouge, Brendan smiled then, and nuzzled into her neck. "I remember tha' scene, an' yeah I get wha' yer sayin. Fantastic movie tha' an' all." He then kissed her neck, as he continued to look out across at the view.

When the fireworks began to go off, Brendan was glad of Stacey's reply, especially seeing as the proposal was going to be said with fireworks toward the end of the display. Now that had cost him a fortune, but he didn't care. Stacey was worth every cent he had spent on this magical evening. Every single cent. "Glad ya like them sweetheart." He kissed her neck and nuzzled into her again then.

As Brendan continued to hug Stacey to him, she hugged him back, and again it gave him a warm feeling on the inside. He definitely was completely in love with Stacey. Then Stacey wrapped her arms around Brendan's neck and he lifted his hands up to put over her own. Then the big bang came which symbolised the proposal was about to light up, and Brendan glanced at Stacey from the side of his eye to see what her reaction was going to be like.

She didn't say anything, not right away anyway, but he could tell, that she was maybe shocked, happy, scared? Who knew what she was feeling, but he felt her arms go a little looser around him, good or bad sign? He was about to find out, wasn't he? When he had turned to her to produce the ring, she removed her arms from around his neck. The white gold ring with ruby and diamonds were sparkling so brightly in the lights of the tower and the last remaining fireworks which were still sparkling out the message.

Her mouth was open and her eyes were welling up with tears, but he couldn't do or say anything about them, because his own eyes were tearing up. He was quite worried what her answer was going to be at this point. Tears began to fall from Stacey's eyes, and Brendan couldn't help his own from falling either then. She then said some words very softly and Brendan thought he could just about make out a yes. He was about to ask her to say it again, but then she threw her arms around him, alright that was definitely a good sign, and she said the words more clearly this time, confirming that she would marry him.

He wrapped his arms around her waist then, and picked her right up off the tower floor and swung her around. "Ya have no idea how happy tha' makes me feel. I love ya Stacey, from now until eternity." Then the crowd which had been around them, all started oohing and aahing and some were even applauding them. Brendan felt like he should bow, but he wasn't about to let go of Stacey any time soon.

However, he knew he had to let her go, as he wanted to get back to that hotel room. After swinging Stacey around for another few seconds, he put her gently back onto the ground, tears rolling down his cheeks because he was so happy. The applaud from the gathered crowd was making him gush all the more. He then gently took the ring out, and before putting it on her finger, he showed the inscription which was on the inside. The words he had said to her earlier in the day, when he'd said she belonged in his heart forever.

He then took her left hand, slipped the ring on which was luckily a perfect fit, and then he went in for a passionate kiss, which caused more oohs and aahs and applauds from the crowd and then one of the guards of the Eiffel Tower appeared pushing a trolley and on it was a bottle of champagne with two glasses. Brendan lifted the bottle and popped the cork, some of the liquid poured out over his hands but he didn't care. He poured two glasses and then gave Stacey one, and Brendan was so happy and nervous now, he was shaking, so he basically downed the glass almost in one go.

When Stacey had finished her glass, he thanked the guard, tipped him, and then bowed to the gathering crowd, which just made them applaud and cheer all the more. He then went to the elevator which was already at the top, because some people had just arrived and missed the spectacular proposal. He guided Stacey inside, and they were back on the ground within a few minutes. Once again the limo was at the bottom of the Tower waiting for them.

The chauffeur opened the door, and Brendan allowed Stacey to slip in first, and then he slipped in after. Once he was inside and the door was closed, he pulled her close to him. "I love you so much Mrs Harris to be." And with that he kissed her passionately once more. Within ten minutes, after the limo had did the same trick as earlier, and went round the block before stopping at the hotel, they were outside the Hilton again.

The door was opened, and Brendan stepped out, and then held his hand out to help Stacey, and guided her back into the hotel and right toward the elevator. This time there was nobody in it, other than he and Stacey, no, he wasn't going to press the stop button, but it meant he could passionately kiss Stacey, as his hands began to wander over her body. All too soon, they had reached their floor. Brendan gently pulled apart from Stacey, and shakily opened their room door, and inside, on the table was another champagne bottle in a bucket of ice, and a chocolate fountain with a bowl of strawberries.

Brendan locked the room door, and made his way over to the table, and picked up a strawberry and dipped it into the chocolate and put it into Stacey's mouth. "I love ya so much Stacey, ya really have made me the happiest man alive the nigh' an' I swear to ya, I'll always love, an' cherish ya, through sickness an' health, until death do us part." And with that he pressed his lips against her own and licked the chocolate which was smudged on her lip, before he began to kiss her passionately, slipping his tongue inside, exploring her mouth, and walking backward, feeling his way with his free hand until he felt the edge of the bed and sat down pulling Stacey into his lap as he continued to kiss her passionately.

[Anastacia Potter]

When Brendan said that he would keep her safe, when they were up in the Tower, and he then snuggled in her, Stacey did indeed feel safe. She always felt safe with him, especially when in his arms. When they got out of the elevator at the top of the tower, she held onto his hand, and kept her distance from the edge, even thought there were barriers. It felt close enough where she was.

He listened to when she spoke about how the scene down there of Paris reminded her of Moulin Rouge, the movie. He then replied saying that he remembered that movie, and got what she was getting at. Then Brendan's lips were on her neck. She closed her eyes briefly, feeling all tingly inside. He hadn't done that for some time, but when he did kiss her neck, right there, she felt turned on by what he was doing. It was nice to kiss on the lips, and really give it your all. But that kiss on your skin was something else.

Stacey did love the fireworks, saying that they were beautiful. Then Brendan said that he was glad that she liked them, and next came the kissing of her neck again and nuzzling. Stacey made a mental note about telling him that she loved when he did that. That, and when he kissed her head. Maybe it didn't matter where he kissed her, as long as he never stopped, ever.

Just seeing that ring, that white gold engagement ring, just made all the emotions come out all at once. She knew that it was a female thing to get all emotional at happy and sad moments. But this was a happy moment for her. Stacey knew that after all the excitement, and being back in the hotel, that she would be able to express everything that she was feeling. But right now, all she could do was let those tears come.

The ring was shining so bright under all the lights of the Tower, and she knew that it would look beautiful on her finger. She didn't mean to say the answer so quietly, but she didn't know if her voice would sound funny if she said it louder. But the second time at saying it, she knew that it would be okay. Brendan instantly wrapped his arms around her waist, picking her up off the Tower floor, and swung her around. He then said to her that she had no idea how happy it made him feel, and that he loved her from now until eternity. All Stacey could do was kiss Brendan on the cheek, and then whispered, "I love you too Brendan. Now and always."

Stacey heard the crowd of people around them, and felt herself blush madly. Now she was the centre of attention of both Brendan, and now these strangers. She caught a few people's eyes, and they smiled at her, and a couple said 'good luck'. Stacey then closed her eyes, trying to calm her blushing down. She was never good at being the centre of attention, but this moment was different. It was her moment with Brendan, and she supposed that this was only the start of all the publicity, due to Brendan working at the paper.

Brendan finally put her down, and she looked up at him, bursting with happiness. Looking at him, she saw that he had tears rolling down his cheek. Stacey half laughed, and lent in to wipe away his tears. Brendan then took out the ring he had produced only seconds ago, and before putting it on her, showed her the inscription. Stacey looked down, and read it. Those words brought back what Brendan had said that day. She swallowed hard, and looked up at Brendan. "I ... I will be in your heart forever." With that Stacey watched then as Brendan slipped the ring on her finger. Fresh tears began to fall as she looked at the ring for only a second, before Brendan went in for a passionate kiss. Stacey kissed him back, slipping her arms under his arms, and rested her hands at the back of his shoulders, bringing herself in close to him. She knew that she was not living a dream right now. It was too real to be any dream that she could ever imagine having.

Stacey parted from Brendan then, and watched as someone, who looked like might have worked on the Tower, pushed a trolley over. It contained a bottle of champagne and two glasses. She watched as Brendan popped the cork, and then filled the two glasses. Stacey soon had a glass in her hand. She sipped, and then drank half the glass, feeling the bubbles get to her a bit. Stacey watched as Brendan drank his whole glass. She wondered how he was feeling right at this moment. Stacey knew that she was feeling so many different emotions. She soon decided to awkwardly drink the rest of the glass she had, and then held it in her hands, which were shaking a little. Maybe it was the crowd watching everything they were doing, but she knew that she needed to step out of the spotlight of the crowd, and begin to stand with Brendan in their new relationship spotlight.

Once they were both finished, Brendan thanks the guard, and then handed him a nice tip. Then he bowed to the crowd that had been watching them from the moment that he had proposed to Stacey. They of cause responded by applauding again. Stacey felt her face blush all the more again, as they headed into the elevator to head down to the bottom of the Tower.

They were met by the limo again, and Stacey got in first, with Brendan following her. As soon as the door was closed, Stacey saw and felt Brendan come in close to her. When he said that he loved her, and called her Mrs. Harris to be, she grinned. Turning to look at him, Stacey had to reply. "I love you too Mr. Harris." He then kissed her passionately, which she responded well to. Ten minutes later, the limo stopped, and they were soon outside the hotel.

When the door was open, Brendan got out, and then extended a hand for Stacey to take, which she did. She got out, and followed Brendan inside to the hotel. Soon they were at the elevator, which had no one in it, but them. Stacey was waiting for Brendan to hit the stop button, but he didn't. When the doors shut, Brendan's hand started to wander over Stacey's body, which was turning her on quite a bit, and she kissed him, letting her hands wander over him, resting quite a few times on his ass.

They were inseparable all the way back to their room, until Brendan pulled apart from Stacey, and shakely opened their door. She saw that he was shaking, and she went and helped him finish opening the door. Stacey was then hit with a scene of another bottle of champagne, and a chocolate fountain with strawberries. Stacey gasped a little, as she headed inside the room.

She then heard Brendan lock the door behind them, and he then moved passed her, walking over to the table. Stacey walked over in his direction, and came up behind him, wrapping her arms around him. She was so happy right now, she just wanted to be with him now. Stacey then moved apart from behind Brendan, as he placed a strawberry, which had chocolated over it, into her mouth. She then listened, as she ate the strawberr, as he said that he loved her so much, and that she had made him the happiest man alive. Stacey smiled at that. Then Brendan continued on to say that he sweared to her that he would love, cherish, through sickness and health till death did they part. Without another word, Brendan pressed his lips onto hers. She felt him lick any stray chocolate that had been left on her lips, which made her let out a small breath. Then he began to kiss her passionately, which Stacey responded to with just as much passion. She felt his tongue moving around, exploring her mouth. Stacey played about with hers, occassionally touching his tongue, as it entered her mouth.

Then they began to move. She was walking forwards, which was fine this time around. They soon stopped, and she instantly felt herself move downwards, leading her to be now sitting on Brendan's lap. Stacey kept kissing Brendan, and then pulled apart from his for only a moment. Looking at him all serious, Stacey spoke, placing her arms on his chest, as she swung her legs around, so that one was on either side of his body. "I love you so much Brendan Harris. I hope that you will always love me for who I am. I know that I will, always." Looking down at the ring on her finger, Stacey touched it, smiling a little. Leaning into Brendan's ear, Stacey whispered. "You make me so happy." With that, she kissed his neck, and reached for the buttons on his shirt.

[brendan]

After Stacey had said yes to his proposal Brendan was shaking with happiness and excitement and love. A myriad of emotions really, but every single one of them good emotions. When Brendan had told Stacey she had no idea how happy she had made him and told her he loved from now until eternity, Stacey had kissed his cheek and whispered into his ear that she loved him too, now and always. It just caused more tears to form and fall. He was a bit of an emotional mess right now. But he was loving it. He loved Stacey.

Brendan noticed Stacey was blushing after the gathered crowd had cheered by going ooh and aah and applauding, but Brendan wasn't embarrassed at all, he just felt proud, proud of Stacey and proud to call her his fianceé. He would shout it out on the streets of Paris every day if he didn't think he'd embarrass Stacey with it. So, he'd just keep his happiness to himself and Stacey and his family, no matter how much he felt like bursting it out.

Stacey was crying as well, which of course had made Brendan's tears fall all the more, when she leaned in to wipe them away, he could only smile, showing those ever powerful dimples of his. Her touch made his skin tingle, god he loved this woman. When he had brought out the ring and showed her the inscription, Stacey had said that she would be in his heart forever. Which made him shake with happiness all the more, he had wondered how this public proposal would have gone, but it couldn't have gone any better, and he was just so bursting with happiness. He had then slipped the ring on her finger, which was amazing because he was shaking so much.

Looking down at the ring on her finger, it just looked so perfect, she really suited it. He saw fresh tears had begun to fall from Stacey's eyes, and of course he felt his eyes do the same thing. It was just such an emotional moment for both of them. One Brendan knew he would remember for the rest of his life. So far there were three very special days which would be etched on his memory, the day he met Stacey, his daughter coming into his life, and the day Stacey agreed to become his wife.

When he began to kiss her passionately, he felt her arms go under his own and her hands rest on the back of his shoulders, so they became closer together. He knew they were hardly alone right at that moment, but they may as well have been for all he cared as he lost himself in the passion of the moment. Only when he heard the gathered crowd applauding and oohing and aahing again did he remember they weren't alone.

When they parted from each other, one of the guards came with the trolley with champagne on it, which of course Brendan had organised, like everything on this trip so far, and it was still just the first day. He had quickly gulped his glass down, because the emotion of the day had finally got to him, and now that the proposal had happened and Stacey had accepted, he felt like he could relax more, so the drink at that moment was very welcome to him.

He soon realised he needed to get them both away from the crowd, he now badly wanted to be alone with Stacey, so when she had finished with her glass of champagne he had thanked and tipped the guard and guided Stacey to the Tower's elevator, so they could finally head back to the hotel. The limo of course was waiting for them again, because Brendan had told the chauffeur roughly how long they would have been.

Once they were inside the limo Brendan had leaned in close to Stacey and told her he loved her, calling her Mrs. Harris to be. She had replied saying she loved him too, calling him Mr. Harris. He loved the way she had said it and he grinned at her, before going all serious and kissing her passionately to which Stacey had gladly responded to.

Ten minutes later they were back outside the hotel again and Brendan soon ushered Stacey inside and straight to the elevator, which he had kissed Stacey again very passionately, with his hands running all over her body because they were alone. He couldn't wait to get her back into that room. When they had reached their floor, he didn't even really watch where he was going, still kissing her, until they reached their room number.

Because he was shaking so much and having trouble opening the door, Stacey began to help him. He felt silly, but he was just so happy and so in love, he felt like he was going to collapse with the emotion of everything. Stacey gasp didn't go unnoticed by Brendan when the door was opened and she saw the champagne and strawberries and chocolate fountain. He turned to her then and winked at her, with those god damned irresistible eyes sparkling and smiling and his dimples out in force.

As Brendan walked over to the table to get a strawberry to dip into chocolate, he soon felt Stacey's arms around him, he used one of his hands to hold onto hers around him, but he had then turned to face her and put the chocolate covered strawberry into her mouth with a grin. After he had told her he would love her until death did them part, he began to kiss her passionately again, and as he slipped his tongue into her mouth, he felt her own play around with his which was turning him on all the more. Although, just being beside Stacey made him feel all warm and tingly anyway.

Once Brendan had guided them back to the bed, and pulled Stacey down onto his lap with him, Stacey broke apart from the kiss, and looked at him all seriously before speaking to him. Brendan listened to what she said, as his eyes locked with her own. He felt her legs wrap around either side of him, and he kept his arms firmly wrapped around her waist so she wouldn't fall backward off his lap. He could only smile at what she was saying to him. "Damn righ' I'll always love ya fer who ya are. An' ya make me so happy an' all, ya have no idea, how happy." With that she leaned in to kiss his neck and began to unbutton his shirt.

His hands immediately went up further, and began to unzip the beautiful dress she had been wearing and he ran his hands up her arms, to reach the straps of the dress and began to slip them down off her shoulders, and began to remove her bra, he then moved his hands down again to reach the bottom of her dress and gently pushed her up off his lap enough to gently tug the dress up and slipped it up over her head and gently placed it on the side of the bed and then he pulled her down, and rolled over so that he was on top of her, and reached for her lips once more kissing her passionately again.

[Anastacia Potter]

When Stacey wrapped her arms around Brendan, as he went to get a strawberry, she felt a hand come up and hold her hands in place. She watched him with the strawberries, resting her head on his back. Then he turned and put the strawberry in her mouth. It did taste really good, but not as good as Brendan's kisses had been tasting like all day. And now she was getting another taste test of the passionate kisses he had been giving out to her.

When Stacey had looked at Brendan seriously and told him how she felt, he replied, as he locked his eyes with hers. Just hearing him say that he would always love her for who she was, and that she was making him so happy. Stacey smiled at that, and looked at the ring again.

As she began to unbutton his shirt, Stacey felt his hands, that were steadying her on his lap, move up further on her back, and unzip her dress. The touch of his hands, running up her arms gave her goosebumps. Then those hands stopped at the straps of her dress, and she let her arms fall to her sides, leaning into his now naked torso. He then began to undo and remove her strapless bra, letting it slip off, hoping that Brendan would remove it before the dress came off. Just when she thought that she would have a chance to continue on with the removal of Brendan's clothes, she soon felt herself tingle again, as Brendan's hands moved down her back. This led to Stacey arching her back a little, with the touch of skin on skin. She then felt herself being pushed up a little off of his lap, in order for the dress to be lifted off of her. Stacey helped then, by moving her legs so that they were bent under her on the bed. She then lifted her arms up in order for the dress to come off. Stacey looked at Brendan the whole time. No emotion, just a serious look on her face. After the dress was off, she licked her lips slightly, and felt her breathing get a little more heavier.

She watched the dress being laid on the bed, but knew that it wouldn't stay there for long. Once this was done, Brendan pulled her back down, and then rolled over, which led to Stacey laying on the bed, with Brendan on top of her. Soon his lips were on hers, kissing her with those fantastic kisses he had been giving all day. Stacey knew that she didn't need to be looking at what she was doing now, as she felt her way down his chest, and soon found the belt to his pants. Here she undid it, using both hands, and then pulled it out of the belt loops on his pants, and threw it on the floor. All Stacey could say in her head was, 'Here we go!'

**** 8 hours later ****

Stacey's eyes fluttered open, but she didn't move at all. She soon realised where she was, and who she was with: Mr. Brendan Harris. Stacey moved her arms ever so slightly from under the covers, and moved to the left a little, hoping not to wake Brendan, when she moved his arm off of her. It was just starting to get light outside, but the sun had not risen properly yet. Stacey slowly moved the covers off of her, and hopped out of bed. She slowly walked over to the nearest chair, and grabbed on of the robes, putting it over her naked body. Stacey slowly then walked over to the balcony door, sliding it open, and then quietly closed it.

Here Stacey sat in one of the chairs at the table. She instantly brought up her left hand, and looked at the ring. It was beautiful, and Stacey knew that she would have to get used to seeing it on her hand from now on. It hadn't even been 12 hours yet since Brendan had proposed, but it just felt like it was only moments ago since he had. But it hadn't, as they had also consummated their next step, which would soon lead to marriage. Stacey wondered how she would handle being a wife. Would it really change who she was as a person? Only time would tell.

Then Stacey felt her stomach growl, but not as in hungry, it felt different, but similar. Oh no, is all she could think. Then that so familiar feeling came over her. She stood up, flung open the door to the room, and raced to the bathroom. Here we go again, Stacey thought, as she heaved up her guts into the toilet. Why was she ruining the perfect week that Brendan had obviously planned for them. Maybe it was something she ate? She hoped not, as the food was so nice, it couldn't have been the food.

Stacey then flushed the toilet, and headed over to the sink, where she took a glass and filled it with water. Swishing it around in her mouth, Stacey spat it out. Looking at herself in the mirror, the same look as yesterday looked right at her.

[brendan]

28th June, 2009 ~ Paris Time

After a rather magical proposal which had led to a rather passionate night between himself and Stacey, Brendan had fallen asleep with his arms wrapped around Stacey, feeling complete, and truly, madly, deeply in love. In fact he was so happy, he had fallen asleep with a smile on his face. It was now approximately eight hours later. Brendan had felt some stirring, but hadn't woken, at least not right away. He thought Stacey was just getting herself more comfortable.

But he soon felt the bed move, and so he turned round slowly and began to open his eyes. He watched as Stacey's perfect naked body reached for one of the robes and wrapped it around herself, and then she went out to sit on one of the chairs on the balcony. He just continued to lay on the bed and watch her. He could only smile as he saw her lift up her left hand to look at the ring on her finger. He wondered what she was thinking.

Was she still as happy with the proposal as he was? Or was she now thinking she had made a terrible mistake, because it had all happened so quickly? He did sometimes wonder if he'd moved too fast himself, especially after the last disastrous relationship, but no, this was right. It felt right. Or at least it felt right to him. Stacey was his world, along with Libby, he treasured them both. He had a ready made family, which he just wanted to confirm by marrying Stacey, making her Mrs. Brendan Harris. Even the sound of that in his own mind made him grin.

He then began to think what she would look like in her wedding dress. Oh, she was beautiful anyway, but in his eyes, he saw her in this dress, and she just looked a sheer vision of beauty. That smile on her face, her eyes open wide and bright, brimmed with tears, as they both said 'I do'. It was just perfect. Oh, he really couldn't wait until he saw her walking down that aisle toward him. That would just be another day which would be etched on his memory forever.

He came out of his thoughts, and continued to watch her from the bed, even in the morning, with bed hair, she was still so very beautiful, and he realised he just wanted to hold her in his arms again. He was just about to ease himself out of the bed slowly, so he could go out onto the balcony and wrap his arms around her neck, when the door to the balcony was opened quickly and he saw a flash as Stacey raced to the bathroom. Of course this immediately made Brendan worried, after the flight on the way to Paris, and yesterday being so perfect he had thought she was over the sickness. Obviously not.

He hoped it wasn't anything they had eaten yesterday, but the food had been so delicious he found it difficult to believe it could have been anything they had eaten. He was now very worried, as he heard her chuck up. He didn't want to embarrass her this time, by going in while she was heaving, so he waited until he was certain she had finished, and then he got up from the bed, put on the robe and walked over to the bathroom.

He opened the door slowly and saw her standing there looking into the mirror above the sink, and when he saw her, she looked just as ill as she had when they were on the plane. He frowned, and ran his hand through his hair, and then he ran his hand gently through Stacey's hair, resting his hand on her forehead. "Ya know." He began in a soft voice, so as not to startle her.

"Am real worried abou' ya Bambi." He then went to the suitcase and brought out some clean casual clothes for himself, and then went back to her again. "After I have a shower, am takin' ya to the doctors here, an' no questions. We gotta find out wha's goin' on with ya, so we can try to make the rest of the trip as special as yesterday." With that he leaned in and gently kissed the back of her neck and rubbed her shoulders with his hands gently.

"If ya hafta chuck up again while am in the shower, jus' ya go ahead, I try an' not be too long." Brendan was so worried about her he wasn't even giving the time of the sickness a thought, but then, being a man, possible pregnancy was the last thing he'd have thought of, and at the same time, it wasn't like they had exactly been trying for a baby. No, Brendan was under the impression there was something far wrong with his Stacey and he was going to do what ever he could to find out what that was.

[Anastacia Potter]

Stacey looked down at the sink, and then closed her eyes. She had begun to feel a bit dizzy, but that might be down to not having much in her stomach now. Stacey then slowly opened her eyes, and ever so slowly looked back at the mirror. She then felt a hand slowly running through her bed hair, and then again. Looking at Brendan through the mirror, she gave him a weak smile. But she saw a frown on his face, which then made her feel sad. Was he angry that she was going to ruin the trip now?

But then his soft voice could be heard, which was a comfort to that last thought. He said that he was really worried about her. That made the two of them. Brendan then left the bathroom, and Stacey then bent down to lean on the sink with her elbows, putting her head in her hands. Then Brendan came back, and told her what he was going to do after he had a shower. Still with her head in her hands, Stacey mumbled, "I want to find out too, so no complaints from me." He then leaned in and kissed the back of her neck and rubbed her shoulders.

Then he said to her if she wanted to be sick while he was in the shower, then she could do so. Stacey slowly got up, and turned to Brendan, nodding. She then kept a hold of the sink while she sat on the toilet. She just couln't believe that she was sick now. After the proposal and all, Stacey wanted the rest of the week to be just as magical. But if she was sick, well, what could she do?

So Stacey sat there for a few seconds to stop the room from spinning a bit. Then finally she felt a bit better to sit, and then got up from the toilet. Stacey very slowly made her way out of the bathroom, and walked right to the bed. Here she sat, and tried to keep herself calm. Stacey had no idea what could be causing her to be sick. She kept going back to what she ate last night. She knew that it couldn't have been the food, as it was so delicious. Surely the French knew enough to make sure that their food was fresh.

Then Stacey thought about all the alcohol she consumed. Maybe she just wasn't use to drinking expensive champagne. Maybe that was it. Maybe it had been too much, what with all the excitement as well. Maybe she was all out of it. Maybe .... Stacey then got up slowly, and went over to look in the suitcase to get some clothes ready for herself to have a shower after Brendan. She soon pulled out a pair of jeans, a black singlet top, and a light white jumper, along with underwear. She stood up, to go back to the bed, when she felt herself get all light headed, and then felt like she was once again going to be sick. Not wanting to get to the toilet too late, Stacey dumped the clothes on the bed, put her hand up to her mouth, and ran.

She got to the toilet just in time, putting the lid up, knelt down, and just let it all out. Her eyes started to water again with it all. It just kept coming, and she began to wonder how much more she could get rid of before there was nothing left. Finally after a few seconds, Stacey stopped. She had no energy to just get up from the toilet, so she lent on it, and lent up to get some toilet paper, wiping her mouth.

Placing that in the toilet, Stacey reached up, and pushed the button to flush it all away. Then without moving, Stacey lent back on the sink's cupboard, and just closed her eyes. She couldn't wait to find out what was wrong with her. It had to stop soon.

[brendan]

When Brendan had run his hand through Stacey's hair, he saw her looking at him through the mirror and gave him a weak smile. He was so worried about her he had a frown on his face, but he was far from angry at her, just very, very worried about her. What if there was something seriously wrong with her, and they were stuck in a foreign country? But he was confused over it all, because after the flight she had seemed so much better and the day yesterday had gone so well. But just like being married, being engaged meant you took the good with the bad, and Brendan was going nowhere.

After he had got some fresh clothes out for himself and went back to the bathroom and told Stacey he was going to take her to the doctors and no questions, Stacey just replied saying he was getting no complaints from her. So he had kissed the back of her neck and rubbed her shoulders gently. He then slipped the robe off and hung it on the hook on the door of the bathroom and went into the shower. While he was showering himself down a myriad of reasons and thoughts went through his head.

Maybe she did have food poisoning, but that wouldn't have explained her reason for being sick on the flight to Paris. Then maybe it was the fear of flying, but if that was the case, then that wouldn't explain why she was sick this morning. It was driving him insane trying to think what the hell could be wrong with her. Even with the shower running, he could hear Stacey being sick again, and his heart was breaking. He just wanted her to be better. Not because he was worried about the trip being ruined, he didn't really care about that, because he cared about her and loved her so much he just wanted her to get better so she could enjoy the trip herself.

After about ten minutes under the shower, Brendan stepped out, grabbed the robe and wrapped it around him, and then he saw Stacey leaning up against the sinks cupboard. Brendan just went up to her and wrapped his arms loosely around her neck, not even pulling her toward him for fear of hurting her or making her feel worse. "We'll get this sorted, I promise ya, an' wha'ever's wrong, I'll look after ya, an' don' ya worry tha' beautiful head of yers abou' ruinin' this trip." He then leaned in gently and kissed her forehead.

He pulled apart from her then, "Think ya'll be alrigh' in the shower? Ya wan' me to stay close jus' in case?" He was scared to go and get dressed and leave her in case she was going to be sick again, and in her hurry maybe slip and really hurt herself. Then they might have a broken bone to deal with on top of the mysterious sickness going on. He waited for Stacey to reply before making his way into the bedroom, just in case she wanted him to stay with her.

[Anastacia Potter]

After Brendan had kissed her neck and rubbed her shoulders, she got up, and nodded at Brendan. Then as she sat on the toilet, she heard the water run. So after a few seconds, Stacey got up and walked out of the bathroom. She hoped that she could hold off on more of being sick, until they got to a doctor. Stacey hoped that they spoke English.

When she rushed in and began to be sick, the water was still running, and Stacey hoped that Brendan didn't hear her. But as he got out of the shower, and put the robe on, he came over and put his arm around her neck. Stacey couldn't look at him as he talked to her. She felt so stupid, bieng sick on this magical week with Brendan. He said that they would sort it out, and to not worry about ruining the trip. "I know that we will soon sort it out, but I do feel bad." Then Brendan kissed her on the forehead.

Then Brendan pulled apart from Stacey, and asked her if she will be okay in the shower. She didn't know if she would or not, as she thought that maybe she might get dizzy again. Looking at Brendan, she slightly licked her lips. They were getting a little dry from being sick. She was probably getting a bit dehydrated now, what with not having anything in her stomach. "It would be great if you could stay close. I should be okay in the shower, but if you could be in the bathroom, just in case." Stacey didn't think she needed help in the shower as such. She would just be as quick as she could, just in case she felt like being sick again.

She then remembered that she had left her clothes on the bed. As she took off the robe, Stacey turned to Brendan. "Could you get my clothes from the bed. I dumped them there as I made a mad dash to the toilet." When Brendan replied, Stacey turned slowly and made her way to the shower. She closed the glass door, and then turned on the water. Making the water hot, but not too hot to burn herself, Stacey just stood there for a few seconds, taking in the feel of the water. It felt nice, as her body was taking its toll on her being sick. She hated feeling this way, after thinking that it was all over yesterday.

She soon decided to have a proper shower. After five minutes, Stacey felt that it was long enough to stay in, just in case she started to feel sick. So she got out, and chose a towel near the shower. After toweling herself off, Stacey slowly made her way over to the sink, where her clothes were. She had noticed Brendan there, and was glad that he had come in to make sure that she was okay. Stacey slowly put on her underwear, and then slowly bent over to put on her jeans. As she stood up to button them up, her head started to swim a bit. So Stacey lent on the sink in order to get herself back to normal to finish dressing herself.

Once all was done, Stacey turned to Brendan. "I am not sure if I can do breakfast. Would it be okay to see if we can see someone about me now? I just want to know what is wrong with me, before I continue to start each day like this." Stacey waited for Brendan's reply, and then headed out of the bathroom to grab her bag. She then stopped, and recalled what she had said. No, she thought, it can't be that. But she wondered. Could she be pregnant? Not wanting to bring attention to herself when she stopped, Stacey quickly got her bag, and headed over to the door.