Hazards on the Hardwood (Hazards and Hijinks) (22 page)

42

The rest of the competition went on without a hitch. The dancers exhibited professionalism and made the competition one of the best in recent years.

After all of the rounds were completed and all the dances represented the trophies were awarded.

Taffy and Nicholas were awarded third place.

Sasha and Landon got second place.

The grand prize trophy and money was awarded to Francois and Caroline.

Caroline looked at the other contestants and smirked. She’d set out to win and she did! She couldn’t resist the urge to walk over to Sasha and Taffy and say a few words, “Well girls, I guess you’ll be seeking new choreographers for next year.”

Taffy felt Sasha’s arm come close to striking Caroline and restrained it. “You are a treacherous viper, Caroline! You won’t be so lucky next time,” Sasha retorted.

“Come on Sasha, she’s definitely not worth it. I don’t want you to be arrested for assault with a deadly stiletto!” Taffy said as she gave Sasha a big hug.

Sparky’s eyes turned toward the dais and searched for Fallon.

“Hey Sparky, you held up well in there with all that foolishness going on. I know you’ve got some serious life decisions to make, but I hope at some point, when all this is resolved, I can take you out for a bite to eat.” Fallon was ever the gentleman. He would wait; not wanting to do anything inappropriate where a lady’s honor and reputation was at stake.

Sparky looked at him and spoke, “I would like that very much, Fallon. I have a great deal to think about right now. Edward will most definitely go to trial. There will most certainly be a lengthy prison sentence in his future. I am tired and ready for a quieter lifestyle.” She gave Fallon a quick peck on his cheek, a squeeze of his hand and then moved on toward the backstage area. She felt she had a great bit of apologizing to do; to all her competitors as well as friends.

* * * *

Nicholas waited for Taffy to come out of the dressing room; anxious to ask his important question. When she appeared, he got a sudden bit of the shakes but managed to give her a huge smile.

“Taffy, if it’s not too much of a shock, I would like to ask you something. I have been crazy about you since I met you and have fallen quite madly in love with you. Would you consider marrying me and putting me out of my romantic misery?”

Taffy was silent and he thought his hopes were about to be dashed, when she replied lightly, “Yes, Nicholas. I will most definitely marry you.”

With a happy heart and a special hand held, Nicholas gave Taffy the little Tiffany box and her eyes showed just how thrilled she was. There in that little box was a one and a half carat diamond engagement ring.

“This is gorgeous! I am so very happy, Nicholas. This is the most wonderful day of my life.” Taffy gave Nicholas a slight kiss and they walked off hand in hand.

The others, minus Caroline and Francois, joined in the celebration
, wished Taffy and Nicholas every happiness and good luck.

Clarkson came backstage and heard the news and told the couple he wished them a wonderful life together. He’d had quite the eventful night himself. It was time for him to go home and relax. In all the years he’d been announcing for the competitions, he’d never had judges knocked out or criminals caught and arrested.

43

A few months later…

Edward’s trial came up and he was sentenced to ten years in prison and Mimms sentence was suspended because he had worked with police in apprehending the pharmaceutical company’s CEO, Max Levi. Marla, the receptionist at the pharmaceutical company and undercover F.B.I. agent, had helped the prosecution testimony and that helped clinch the verdict.

Marla’s cover was that of a “gold digger” and she played it well. Her assignments called for her to schmooze some of the more questionable members of society and she did it superbly, she’d have them eating out of the palm of her hand. It wasn’t too shabby that if she played it to perfection they would lavish her with expensive jewelry and fine dining. Of course, she didn’t get to keep the jewelry, it would have been a “conflict of interest,” however, she could wear it while on the case.

When the trial came up, she shocked those in the courtroom with her F.B.I. status and had no trouble “spilling” all she knew about the case and helped solidify the other testimonies.

No one realized that Ms. Marla had another secret. She was Willie O’Brien’s younger sister. She had been in contact with Willie when he arrived in town. She was concerned about him and the plan he had dreamed up to “rescue” his daughter, Zoe, from her sister-in-law, Sophie. She looked forward to being “Auntie Marla,” as soon as she could reveal her family tie to Sophie.

Now that Willie was settled down in California and he had made a positive change, she could breathe easier. She never let Willie know the nature of her job. He just thought she was a “temp.” She kept it that way.

Who knew? Maybe someday she would have to take a trip out there. But in the meantime, she had another plan; finding out some information about someone she found very interesting and extremely handsome. Her heart beat a little faster this man’s presence during the trial. Officer Nelson seemed to have caught her eye. She had to learn more about this nice looking gentleman, and she would; oh yes, she definitely would!  Snickering, she went back to polishing her nails, wondering what her next case assignment would be.

* * * *

Sparky filed for divorce after Edward had been arrested, she’d gone into his study and found out via his hidden checkbook, that he had another woman stashed in a condo in Queens. The “tart” was living there rent-free and when Sparky found the bank account statements, and that the “other woman” was receiving weekly payments for her living expenses, she nearly blew a gasket. What really clinched the deal was an envelope Edward had hidden away with incriminating photos that Mimms had sent him as a kind of insurance in case Edward didn’t come through on paying him for services rendered.

Sparky immediately contacted the bank and had that option taken away. The “tart” would have to bake in the kitchen of some other sucker!

Landon was settled into his law practice in the city but thought it best not to represent his sister in her divorce trial. He found another reputable lawyer for her.

Landon and Sasha were dating regularly and dancing any time they had a chance.

* * * *

Raul and Sophie had decided to see each other more regularly. He had voiced his commitment to her and deactivated his online dating account.

It turned out Raul took to Zoe like a natural. He held her, rocked her and bought several noisy, colorful toys. He was totally smitten! He told Sophie that Zoe was the only baby he’d ever been near and he was completely hooked!

It gave Sophie a warm feeling in her heart to see Raul so absorbed with her family. He had always seemed like a self-centered person. But he’d changed and she was grateful.

Ever since the dance competition, they were drawn to each other and she was hopeful of it going to the next level; possibly a more serious commitment. Time would tell.

44

“We just received the wedding invitation from Taffy and Nicholas,” exclaimed Sasha to her sister, Sophie.

“That reminds me, we have our last fitting at David’s Bridal this Saturday. Taffy phoned Monday to let us know the time of the fitting. We will get to see Taffy’s dress first.” Sasha was so excited about the wedding.

This was Sasha’s first time as a Maid of Honor and she didn’t want to let Taffy down. The other bridesmaids included Sophie and Sparky. She couldn’t wait to see Taffy’s gown! Taffy and Nicholas’ wedding would include friends and acquaintances of the ballroom world. All this “danced” around in Sasha’s mind as she prepared to meet her friends for their day out.

Saturday morning, a very eager Taffy prepared for her fitting at David’s Bridal. She was a little anxious as her taxi pulled up in front of the famous designer shop. The bridal store had been on her mind, ever since she watched the lovely commercials. Taffy was filled with nervous energy thinking about the beautiful white fabric of her dress.

Ladies scurried at a frantic pace, carrying elegant garment bags, no doubt holding their dream wedding gowns. Taffy felt her heart skip a beat as she walked inside the store with its posh interior.

She had chosen a lovely gown that looked a lot like one she had seen in a magazine by Alita Graham. She was smart and had taken the pictures of her favorite styles to the boutique. The dress was an asymmetrical draped gown with an A-line design made of white silk and chiffon. The floor length dress flared slightly at the bottom. It was as if it was designed especially for her. The mirrors gave her a reflection of front and back and she knew that Nicholas would be totally enamored as she walked down the aisle.

Taffy found herself feeling like royalty as she viewed the image from the different mirrors. After she found the veil and other accessories, she took out her phone, checking the time and realized her friends would be arriving soon. She slipped out of the dress and made all the payment arrangements. With the third place winnings her and Nicholas shared she was sure they could have a lovely wedding and honeymoon, third place hadn’t won the impressive $25,000 but the $10,000 they won would be helpful, they were both smart and she knew they could start the marriage with a small nest egg.

The bell on the door rang, she heard the voices of her friends and they were shown to the area where Taffy was waiting. They all saw her at once and came running, “Taffy!”

They were like school girls, all chattering, giggling and the excitement filled the festive environment, racks of bridesmaid dresses hung elegantly. Their attendant came up and greeted them pleasantly, “Good morning, ladies. Are you ready to try on your dresses? They’re all steam-pressed and altered to fit you perfectly. Please step over here and pick your dressing rooms. I will bring your dresses to you shortly.” With that said, the petite, professionally dressed lady rushed off to the back of the store.

Taffy sat down on a tufted, softly-rounded pink seat in front of a raised platform. Mirrors surrounded her at every angle.

Sasha smiled widely as she exited her dressing room, feeling so honored to be Taffy’s Maid of Honor. Her dress was a one shouldered knee-length design, teal-colored with shimmering taffeta. It definitely showed off her beautiful red hair. “Well? What do you think?” Sasha waited for Taffy’s reaction.

“It’s stunning, simply stunning!” Taffy thought Sasha looked radiant in teal.

Next Sophie stepped out on the platform and she looked gorgeous! Taffy took the opportunity to chat with Sophie for a quick moment, asking her about Willie’s status out west.

“I’ve received a letter from Willie out in California. He said he loved his job and is considering going into the ministry. He will need to attend seminary and he is extremely happy. I wrote him back and told him about your wedding. He said ‘he’s becoming good friends with Nicholas.’ I didn’t realize they were in touch regularly. That’s just a plain miracle! Nicholas has taught him about God’s never ending grace and how forgiveness is a healthy alternative to anger and revenge. Willie seemed to be very receptive and now that he’s contemplating the ministry, I’m sure doors will open widely for him.” Sophie had sweetness in her tone. She also realized that forgiveness was important to one’s health and well-being.

“Thank you Sophie for sharing. Nicholas has been so very busy lately and he must have forgotten to tell me the good news about Willie. In my heart I always felt that Willie’s story wouldn’t end up in a negative light. He had a strong drive to be a family man but he just didn’t know the right way to go about it. It’s good of you to forgive him. He can move on now and things should really improve.” Taffy was glad she could catch up with Sophie.

Sparky took her place “center stage” and looked fabulous, as always.
“The color teal was the perfect for both Sparky and Sophie,”
Taffy thought.

After all the fittings were complete, the girls chatted quietly as each girl in turn paid for their dress and the attendant put the dresses in their individual garment bags.

Now it was on to lunch at Artie’s Deli in Midtown to share each other’s company and then back home to finish wedding plans.

* * * *

With the tuxedo fittings complete, Nicholas stared at his list of groomsman; deep in thought, smiling at where the last year had taken all of his friends.

Landon was his best man. He had accepted without hesitating. Raul was one of the groomsman and Fallon Middleton also agreed to be in the wedding party.

Nicholas smiled as he thought how things had changed for his friends; Fallon was drawing closer to Sparky now that Edward was out of the picture and in the slammer!

He prayed to God for Edward’s heart to change while he was incarcerated. Maybe the split with Sparky would help him see that larceny and mischief were not the way to succeed in life; only time would tell where Edward’s life after prison, would finally take him.

For now, Nicholas had to concentrate on the upcoming wedding and his lovely bride-to-be, Taffy. He was amazed at her life and how she moved through it, gracefully, just like on the dance floor. She had shown tremendous strength and tenacity at all that happened at the dance competition.
“Yes, that’s my Taffy,”
He thought as he drank his second cup of coffee.

The weather cooperated marvelously. The sun that special afternoon shone brighter than most Sundays. There was a beautifully-dressed, excited crowd gathering in front of the Good Haven Community Church in Brooklyn.

The church was decorated with white flowers and red roses. Twinkling lights were draped from the rafters and wound around the columns, along with greenery scattered about. A plush, pale, pink velvet carpet ran down the center aisle. Up front a harpist played softly.

The white-haired, distinguished looking minister paced the floor, frequently he glanced at his watch now and then preparing for the ceremony. He was a long-time friend of Nicholas and had agreed to officiate without hesitation.

The groomsmen came into the sanctuary, looking dapper and oh so handsome!

The music started playing, “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.” Yes, Elvis, the “other king” would have his place in the ceremony; playing second to “The Real King,” of course.

“I Can Only Imagine” played as the bridesmaids walked slowly, elegantly down the aisle. There was a hush as everyone anticipated Taffy’s entrance.

The huge double-doors opened and as “Ode to Joy” started playing, Taffy, along with Clarkson Daly, yes, the emcee from the now “infamous” Lakeside Dance Competition, walked slowly down the aisle. Clarkson wanted to do something very special for Taffy and thought he’d honor her by walking her down the aisle. He had a gentle smile on his face as Taffy hooked her arm in his and stepped gently onto the carpet.

Her elegant gown drew gasps of “Ah” from the crowd. It flowed as if on air as she made her way down to the front. Every eye was on her and camera phones were held high, capturing her image for friends to see.

Nicholas beamed from ear-to-ear as he beheld her beauty. The vision was even more than he could have ever imagined. The groomsmen appeared to be under her spell, as well.

In the crowd was a dazed and awe-struck Francois. He just sat there dumbfounded.
“Where did I go wrong?”
He thought.

Caroline sat by his side and quietly felt a twinge of anger well up from inside. She glanced at her phone, muting it and then looking at the time displayed,
“Ah, I hope this is done soon. I’ve got a massage at Lotus Blossom Spa later this afternoon,”
She thought. Her foot lightly tapped as she impatiently waited for the ceremony to be over and done with.

Also in the crowd were Taffy’s Uncle James and Aunt Kathryn, making the trip from California to be there. It made her heart smile. She nodded as she strolled by them. Looking at her handsome preacher man, Nicholas, her heart melted at the image he made in his tuxedo. She kept walking toward him with a big smile on her face, hidden under her frosty white veil.

Taffy arrived at the altar and Clarkson gently kissed her lightly on her cheek and released her into Nicholas eagerly waiting hand. The preacher had them recite the vows and there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. When the ceremony was finished and the pastor said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, I proudly present Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Kincaid,” there was an expression of great joy throughout the room. They walked out, all smiles.

The reception hall was elegantly decorated, flowers everywhere and the lighting created an atmosphere of lavish splendor. The DJ had set up his station in one corner of the huge room. Music was already playing and people filed into the room in a festive mood. Toes were tapping and laughter rang throughout the hall.

The variety of gourmet foods, catered by a new start-up company, “Food Fashionistas” was spread out like a royal banquet. In another corner, the chocolate fountain bubbled over and offered a yummy option for dipping fruit and pretzels.

Front and center was a delicious 3-tier cake from a talented local baker. Cameras and iPhones were continuously in use as people took pictures of all the amazing, romantic décor.

Cedric videotaped the ceremony and could not stop grinning. He’d seen Taffy come a long; long way since her he had first met her. He was thrilled to see her so happy.

Taffy’s friends from Starbucks wouldn’t have missed the wedding for the world. They pooled their resources and bought the newlyweds a coffee machine and cute set of bride and groom coffee mugs.

As the newly-weds took to the dance floor for their first dance as Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Kincaid, there was a hush over the entire room. All eyes focused on the two people that were waltzing romantically.

After the couple danced their first dance the DJ got the guests up and dancing themselves. The event was a blast and the night was a success.

Everyone said their goodbyes after a wonderful fun-filled wedding day!

At the end of the day, tired but happy, Taffy and Nicholas, started thinking about where they would like to build their new life together…ah, but that’s another story!!!

~ The End ~

For Now