Deporting Dominic (21 page)

I am looking at myself in the mirror something I have done frequently since Dominic and I first became intimate.  This is the first time that I truly look different to me.  I am Mrs. Dominic Castillo!
Early this afternoon we exchanged wedding vows in front of our family and friends. Dominic was inside our bedroom opening a bottle of champagne. The whole day replays in my mind as I spritz the jasmine scented body spray over my neck and shoulders. 

A Catholic wedding is a long ceremony steeped in rich tradition. I understood this during my many sessions with Father Foster. It was reinforced during the two rehearsals that gave the wedding party a chance to understand how to proceed.

“Hold still please Samantha,” Amy, my hairdresser was pleading with me. I just couldn’t keep still it was my wedding day.  This day was finally here and my nerves were shot. The girls and I had taken over the mall salon to get our hair and make-up completed for the afternoon ceremony.  Dominic was staying at Drake’s apartment until it was time for the ceremony. His brother and father were with him while his mother and several aunts decorated the church and hall. Isabella, Dominic’s sister, was sitting across from me in a chair getting her hair fashioned into an elegant up do.

“Calm down Sammie. It’s going to be okay,” Isabella promised in her heavily accented voice. I tried to give her a reassuring smile but the stress of the day was already wearing on me.  I was marrying the love of my life today with both our families and friends in attendance.  Amy called my hair do, “A classic French twist with an extra twist.” I was taking her word for it that it would be perfectly suited to both my dress and the style of my fingertip length mantilla veil. After giving it a good washing and conditioning she used flat irons to get the level of straightness she wanted.  My face was so flushed I could barely look into the giant mirror as Amy pulled most of my hair into a ponytail.  I decided that I should just close my eyes and let her announce when she is finished. 

“Almost done Sammie then Mary Jo is going to do your makeup,” Amy announced a little while later.  I feel her push the decorative bejeweled pins that Sidney gave me as a wedding gift into my hair.  When she is finished she hands me a large hand mirror to inspect her handiwork. It is simple beautiful and exactly as she promised. My hair has the signature French twist but there are curly tendrils of hair falling down the sides of my face. With the champagne colored mantilla veil in place it looked absolutely stunning. I quickly covered my mouth as a cry escaped and not the thank you I was intending. 

“I’m
going to take that as you love it,” Amy replied patting my shoulders. I nod that I do love it as Mary Jo nears me. 

“Don’t worry sweetie I am going to use waterproof make-up,” Mary Jo drawls with a Southern accent. 

When we leave the mall I am doing my best to remain unemotional. The soft brown and ivory hues Mary Jo used on my eye make-up complete my overall look of understated elegance. This is the proof that you do not need to spend a billion dollars on a wedding to make it elegant. 

“Minuera hermosa,” Mrs. Castillo gushes when she sees me.  She is trying not to mess up my makeup as she gives me several air kisses.

“Gracias mama,” I replied as we get into the elevator heading to my apartment. 

Almost everyone is dressed and ready as our amateur photographer starts snapping pictures. Barry is an art history major looking to get some exposure in the field. He practically begged me to let him film and photograph the wedding. We agreed on a small nominal fee for his time. He was capturing
those moments I couldn’t because I was preoccupied with being the bride. 

“The car will be here in t
hirty minutes,” Sidney announced. My apartment is filled with women and young ladies getting dressed. Sidney has agreed to drive my minivan with the other bridesmaids. Mrs. Castillo, my aunts, and Renata are riding with me in the luxury car.  My Aunt Camille zips the back of my dress and I am ready.

“Sammie you look so beautiful,” Sidney exclaimed through tears.

“Mom you look fantastic,” Morgan cried reaching for me. 

“Thanks you guys. Morgan did a great job
choosing the bridesmaid dresses. You guys look fabulous.”

My mom’s wedding dress was just as I had hoped it would be, beautiful.  The halter neckline did not look too risqué for a Catholic wedding. Adding the embellished detail of the champagne colored sash around my waist was a great idea. The long plush fabric fell into a stunning train behind me.  I felt like a princess as everyone gave their positive opinions. Outside clutching my
ivory colored rose bouquet I felt amazing.  My smile was bright in every picture even as the hot Arizona sun beat down on me. 

Inside the luxury sedan the cool air was a welcomed respite from the heat outside.  Mrs. Castillo and Aunt Camille held my hands as the car drove to the church.  Mrs. Castillo cried softly into a lacy handkerchief as she clutched her rosary beads.  I gave her hand a soft squeeze to let her know I shared her emotional sentiment but at the risk of messing up my makeup I was refraining from showing it.  My dress was my something old, my Aunt Camille’s diamond jewelry was
something borrowed, and my hairpins from Sidney were blue rhinestones. 

The church was exquisitely decorated eac
h pew covered in orange blossom flowers, lace, and wedding garland.  Susanne a member of the church directed me towards a small room for me to await my grand entrance.

“Can I have a moment with
my new daughter alone?” Mrs. Castillo asked.

“Barry can you get more pictures of my beautiful bridesmaids?”

Barry gave a nod as he shut the door to the small room.  I turn to face Mrs. Castillo nervous now about our conversation. 

“I just wanted to talk to you about your marriage. I want you to know that Dominic told me everything. I am so happy for you and my son.  Thank you for loving my son. I cannot tell you what this means to our family that you truly love him. You both are young and we want you to have a long marriage.”

Mrs. Castillo reached into her bag pulling out a small ornate antique wooden box.  I sat down my bouquet and took the box from her delicate hands.

“Trece monedas de oro. It is thirteen gold coins that Luis gave to me at our marriage.  We give this to the bride to know her husband will t
ake care of her and trusts her. Dominic cannot see you so I give to you to know he will take care of his family.  The family made you this rosary with orange blossoms to wish you happy and babies. The priest will bless these out in the church.”

I looked down at the shiny gold coins resting inside the small antique box.  The tears are there and I have no way to stop them. Carefully Mrs. Castillo dabbed at my tears as hers streamed wildly. I reach out and give her a hug wishing that my mother was here. 

“It’s time Samantha,” My Uncle Winston said before taking a step back.  “You look so beautiful sweetheart.” He clutched his heart losing his fight as tears fell down his cheeks.  The thought that his brother missed this day saddened him but having no daughter of his own he proudly walks me down the aisle.

“Thanks Uncle Winston, I am ready,” I
replied wiping his tears before grabbing my bouquet.  I slip my arm into my Uncle’s arm as we walk towards the interior of the church. 

Everyone stands as the doors open to my uncle and me.  We stand at the end of the aisle for a moment then move slowly down. I hear the gush of “oohs” and “aahs” but it is Dominic’s face that I see at the altar. Dominic’s hand covers his heart as he takes his first look at me. It is then that I see the knuckle of his index finger quickly wipe away a stray tear. I smile back at him unable to fight the tears threatening at the brim of my eyes.  The bridesmaids and groomsmen are already in their rightful places as
we stroll down the aisle.  The soft ivory dresses with champagne sash looks befitting as they stand on my left. I can hear soft weeping as I walk closer towards Dominic.  I know it is my family that is weeping because my parents are not here to celebrate this day.  When we approach the altar my Uncle unites my hand with Dominic.

Dominic’s voice is a low strangled whisper, “You look amazing Samantha.”

“You do too Dominic,” I whisper back as a few tears stream down my cheeks.  Father Foster is dressed in his Catholic regalia about to unite us in holy matrimony.  The ceremony follows a similar progression as a regular Sunday service; however we exchange our vows at some point.  After the opening prayer everyone is seated as Father Foster starts the service.

“Dominic Jesus Castillo and Samantha Nicole Gable have you come here freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?” Father Foster
asked during the Rites of Marriage.  We both said, “Yes”, in unison. 

Sidney takes my bouquet as I place both my hands in Dominic’s capable hands. The look in his eyes as we face each other melts my heart.

Dominic recites his vows, “I, Dominic Jesus Castillo, take you, Samantha Nicole Gable, for my lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.”

“I, Samantha Nicole Gable, take you, Dominic Jesus Castillo, for my lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.”

Father Foster acknowledges our consent to be married finishing with, "What God has joined, men must not divide."

It is now that Father Foster blesses the rings that we will exchange.
Dominic slips the second part to my wedding ring set onto my finger. 

“Samantha, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

I take the platinum band Charlie picked out and place it on Dominic’s ring finger.

“Dominic, take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

After the presentation of the gifts the ceremony progresses so that those in attendance including the bride and groom can receive communion.  All of Dominic’s family is included in the communion and a few people on my side of the church.  Father Foster and Father Anderson repeat the same process they did on me in church on each of my children.

“I love Jesus,” Bryce
said loudly as laughter erupts throughout the church. Father Foster makes a cross of holy water on each of their foreheads before offering them communion.

“Daddy
, I have a cracker,” Bryce informed Dominic, “Gracias padre.”

Everyone including both priests laugh at Bryce’s words. I allow all the emotion I feel watching my children and my husband before me flow down my cheeks.

After several more prayers Father Foster allows Dominic and I to cement our marriage with a kiss. 

“You can kiss my daddy now mommy,” Bryce announces. Dominic gives Bryce a gracious wink to indicate his acceptance. Dominic slips his hands underneath my veil as he takes my
face in his hand.  It is the most wonderful kiss I have ever had in my life, except those I receive from Bryce of course. 

“I love you,” I whisper as our lips separate.

“I love you more,” he replies back. I want to kiss him some more but the ceremony is not over yet.  It takes a few more minutes before Father Foster and Father Anderson provide final prayers as the blond woman sings a beautiful song.

My aunt Camille places the small decorative wish broom in front of us as we turn around to face the congregation.  Sidney hands me my bouquet before Dominic and I jump t
he broom.  The audience applauds as we make our way out of the church and into the vestibule. 

As soon as we are in the vestibule Dominic snakes his hand around my waist pulling me in for another knee shattering kiss.

“Thank you husband,” I murmured as the remainder of the wedding party emerges to catch the last of our kiss.

“You’re welcome wife,” he smiled back at me. Sidney and Morgan rush us both with hugs and kisses.

“Congratulations you two!” Sidney exclaimed loudly.

“I love you both so much,” Morgan cries as Dominic and I surround her with hugs. Bryce makes his way through the crowd of people pouring out of the church with Charlie right behind him.  They both run up to us and the five of us are engaged in a family hug. This touching scene elicits more tears from both families.

After shaking hands with everyone in attendance Dominic and I step into Father Foster’s office to sign wedding documents. 

“We hope you will join us at the reception Father Foster?” Dominic asked as he signs his name to our marriage certificate.

“You two did an amazing job. I am very proud of you for demonstrating a strong commitment to your faith and each other,” he said nodding his head.

The reception hall was decorated in ivory and champagne colored balloons, streamers, flowers, and of course paper wedding bells.  There were centerpieces made of orange blossoms that enhanced the simple décor. A friend of Dominic’s, Marcel, was the DJ for the evening and we instructed him to play just simple music for now. After our first dance we wanted the party to really get started. Dominic’s uncles Hector and Jose brought all the refreshments including tequila, sangria, and champagne. 

“Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Jesus Castillo,” DJ Marcel announces as we make our grand entrance.  Dominic is holding my hand as we make our way to the dance floor surrounded by applause. 

The reception hall is full with family and plenty of friends as we take our positions on the floor.  The music begins and Dominic guides me as we dance a simple waltz to the beautiful Spanish love song. When the song completes I dance with my uncle Winston. Eventually others take to the floor dancing to the slow songs before dinner is served.  Father Foster gets on the microphone to bless the food. We all bow our heads to receive this blessing. Marcel announces the dinner will be served buffet style. Several of my cousins and Dominic’s cousins are immediately recruited to serve the food.  The wedding party is allowed to make their plates before the guests are served.

I can tell that Aunt Rosa and my new mother-in-law took great pains to decorate the head table beautifully.  The orange blossom centerpieces are much fuller on our table than on the guest tables.  The small wedding favors covering the table gave it a nice accent.

“These glasses have our names on them. That’s pretty cool,” Dominic said spying the engraved champagne flutes.

“I found
them online, clearance baby,” I beamed at him.

“My frugal wife, I adore you.” He gives me a sweet kiss just as individuals pick up the small bells ringing them.

“Every time they ring the bells you two have to kiss,” Sidney informed us.  Dominic shrugs his shoulders and pulls in for a juicy kiss. As he breaks the kiss he murmured, “I love you Samantha Castillo.”

“I love you right back husband.”  I realize as my tummy gives a low rumble that I have not had much to eat to day.  I dig into the delicious food as the guests continue to line up to make their plates.  The combination of American and Mexican cuisines provides an eclectic yet delicious dinner.  Sidney eyes Dominic as we eat food off each other’s plate.

“I should have known at the diner this was where you two were headed,” she whispered to me pointing to our plates. I throw my head as I laugh loudly remembering the way they stared at us when we shared our food with each other.  Dominic gave her a wink as he devoured the remaining portion of my tamale. 

“
Mama gave me her recipe so I will be able to make these for you,” I informed my new husband.

“I am a lucky man,” Dominic responds before giving me another kiss.

As the dinner portion of the evening winds down Marcel changes the music to current contemporary hits.  Guests are now sated by the wonderful food and take to the dance floor. 

“Do we have any white wine?” I ask
ed Uncle Jose who is doubling as the bartender as well.

“You need som
e sangria,” he replied in a thick Spanish accent. 

“Uncle Jose
, I am afraid that I will spill it. I can be a bit of a klutz some times.”

“Good choice one white wine coming up.” Uncle Jose’s wrinkled face softens into a warm smile as he hands me my glass.  “My nephew made a wise choice.”

“Thank you! I know I made a wise choice.” I redirect my gaze to find my new husband.  Dominic is standing amongst a circle of his friends looking as handsome as ever. The normally unruly curly hair is tamed back with only a few stray curls now starting to escape.  The tuxedo looks absolutely stunning on his well-toned body.  When he notices me staring at him he gives me a wink and devilish grin. I blow him a kiss that he catches.

“Mom you look so beau
tiful,” Charlie interrupted my flirting. I turn to look at my son getting taller everyday. I wrap an arm around his shoulders giving him a soft kiss on the forehead.

“Thanks my handsome son. Would you fancy a dance with your mom?”

Charlie takes my hand leading me to the dance floor. I signal Barry to snap pictures of this moment.  Charlie and I start dancing on the dance floor. I am impressed when he spins me several times before Bryce insists on joining our dance.  I have seen very little of my son as Dominic’s family refusing to let him go. The three of us dance around when Morgan decides to join us.  Most of the other dancers clear the floor and give us this moment to enjoy. Dominic eventually finds his way over to us, dancing with his new family.  When the song ends we receive a round of applause. Graciously we bow to the audience before we start pulling individuals to the floor.  DJ Marcel takes that as his cue and the guests kick up their feet on the dance floor. 

“Charlie you did a fabulous job organizing everything,” I shout
ed over the music giving my son a huge hug. Using a system akin to our calendar system at home Charlie made a detail list of everyone’s responsibilities on the computer. He printed out copies for everyone that included cute little thanks at the bottom.  During the wedding he made sure everyone remembered their cues. It was his idea that the cousins serve the food at the reception. 

“Your welcome mom,” he replied hugging me tightly. “I love you and I am so happy that you’re happy.”

I fight the tears that brim my eyes and shake my head as words escape me.  When the next song ends I hear Morgan’s voice on the microphone.

“Hello everyone I just wanted to
said a few words,” she explains.  Dominic makes his way to me and we join hands. Charlie and Bryce immediately join her in the middle of the dance floor. 

“I just wanted to
said how happy we are,” she indicates Charlie and Bryce, “to have Dominic join our family. It is a joyous occasion that is missing two people. Our mom and dad are not physically here but I know their spirit is here.  They are as proud of you Mr. and Mrs. Castillo for finally realizing the love you both share. I think I hear mom saying about time.”

Everyone in our family laughs at her last statement knowing how much my mother wanted me to finally take a romantic interest in Dominic.

“I told you my mom always wanted us to be together,” I whispered to my new husband. Dominic gives my hand a squeeze and I know it’s because he is emotional.  Morgan continues her speech, “Dominic you have always been an integral part of our family. We could never repay you for supporting us through tragedy. I think that you are going to make a wonderful husband for our mom and a great father to us. Mom, I just want to thank you for finally going after what you wanted. You have been so focused on doing a good job as a parent, student, and businesswoman that we were worried you wouldn’t allow yourself to find love. I know that you and Dominic will be happy for many years to come. Thank you for showing us the way.”

The audience erupts into a round of applause at the conclusion of her
speech, as Dominic and I are both left tearful.

“I just want to
said I love my mommy and daddy,” Bryce’s voice booms from the microphone to loud “ahhs” from the audience.  Barry snaps photos as we embrace our children in a group hug. 

Morgan gives Drake the microphone as he and Sidney take their place on the dance floor. 

“I was honored when Dominic asked me to be his best man. When I started at U of A, Dominic was a sophomore who befriended me when I tried out for the swim team.  He has been like a big brother to me ever since. A few years ago I asked Dominic if it would be okay to ask Samantha out on a date. It was the first time I had ever seen him lose his cool. He stammered that he didn’t think she would go for me because she was so busy and heaped on all these other excuses. In the end he made it very clear that I was not to pursue Samantha in any way. It was also the first time I was ever intimidated by another man. I knew then that he was crazy in love with Samantha. I watched the two of them together and I echo your mother’s sentiments, what took you two so long?” Drake paused as everyone laughed before continuing. “You two were married a long time ago, today just made it official. I was nervous about giving this toast because I couldn’t find the exact words. I read a quote that said, ‘Marriage, ultimately, is the practice of becoming passionate friends.’ Dominic and Samantha never lose the friendship or the passion. To the happy couple.”

Aunt Rosa handed Dominic and I two glasses of champagne before Drake finished his speech. Everyone took a sip of their champagne before Sidney took to the microphone. 

“When Samantha and I first met I complimented her on her hot boyfriend. Immediately she protested that Dominic was her best friend not her boyfriend. Although we didn’t know each other we ended up in a heated debate about whether males and females could be friends. In the end I gained a best friend and she almost had me convince with her strong argument. I am glad to claim victory in that debate some three years later. I am happy that you and Dominic realized that your wonderful friendship would best be nurtured by a wonderful marriage. You two inspire me with your courage, selflessness, and love. No matter what life throws your way you two will face it together as you have done since you met,” Sidney spoke until tears temporarily overwhelmed her. “Thank you Dominic for taking care of my best friend as only you could. Samantha deserves all the happiness this world has to offer and so do you. Dominic and Samantha never forget this moment and never forget your vows to each other. Here’s to a long and prosperous marriage.”

After taking another sip of champagne Dominic and I make our way over to Drake and Sidney. We all exchange hugs as the m
usic started to play once more. It doesn’t take long for everyone to get out of their seats and enjoy the party.  I am shocked to be standing amongst Dominic’s many cousins poised to do a shot of tequila. 

“So you lick
the salt, take the shot, and bite the lemon?” I asked once more.

“Si Samantha. You are Castillo now we don’t flinch over tequila,”
Rodrigo informed me with a wink of his hazel eye. We all lick the salt, take the shot, and bite the lemon in unison.

“Wow Saman
tha that was nice,” Dominic said slipping his hands around my waist. My lips are still locked in a pucker from both the shot and the lemon.

“One more this time wit
h your husband.” Rodrigo insisted as Uncle Jose starts pouring. After that shot Dominic pulls me outside for some fresh air.  The Arizona heat has begun to dissipate and the twinkling of stars light the night sky.  Dominic twirls me around on the sidewalk outside the hall and I giggle like a schoolgirl. We walk away from the hall towards an open patch of grass near the parking lot.  Holding both my hands in his as he faces me Dominic repeats his vows to me. After doing so he adds, “I promise in the next year to continue to grow our relationship, to support my family, and to make you proud of me.”

I stumble through my vows when I realize what he is doing. My parents would find a special place on their anniversary to recite their vows to each other. They would also list their hopes for the coming year as a sign that they would always work together. 

“Dominic I want to spend the next year establishing a healthy marriage with our children. I will always be proud and support you through all of your endeavors. Most importantly I will love you as only I can.” 

Before I am finish
ed I hear sobs coming from nearby. Standing in the shadows are our kids, Morgan and Charlie knows exactly what we are doing. Bryce runs his tear-stained face towards us embracing Dominic’s leg.

“Why are you crying Bryce sweetheart?” I ask
ed rubbing his back.

“I don’t know mommy. Charlie and Morgan are crying and it’s making me sad.”

“Oh baby boy it’s okay,” I said lifting him up in my arms.  Dominic wraps an arm around Morgan and Charlie as we once embrace.

“It’s what mom and dad used to do on t
heir anniversary,” Charlie said sniffling.

It’s the clapping sound that jolts us apart
.

“Wow I had to come down here and see this circus for myself,” Danny sneers as he continues to clap. Appearing out of the shadows Danny looks a little worse for wear. His blond hair is tussled and it appears it’s been days since he has bothered to shave
or wash.  Immediately Bryce launches out of my arms to Dominic’s wrapping his arms around his neck protectively.

“Get ou
t of here Danny,” Charlie growled before anyone else had a chance to speak.  I can see his hands are immediately balled into fists.  I place my hand on his shoulder to hold him back as I speak, “I think Charlie makes a good point. You were not invited so you need to leave.”

“I guess you need
ed the immigrant here to clean up your fat girl act. Nice job Dominic she looks almost doable.”

Danny threw
his head back laughing as he neared one of the parking lot lights. His appearance is even worse than initially thought. The blue jeans he wears are stained from days of wear and his shirt is a wrinkled mess.  I notice that Danny is not alone before Dominic when he passes Bryce to Morgan. Bryce refuses to let go of Dominic’s neck as I push them both back.