⚠️Warning: Chapter is freakishly long because I have no control over my life lmao. 🤣🤦🏻‍♀️ (On a serious note, slight mentions of past traumas ahead. If affected please read with caution.)⚠️
~~~~~

《2017》

*Nikki*

I smiled as I laid in bed next to Mal.

It was a lazy day so since the Twins and Stevie, who are the high schoolers, have a day off from school for Teacher Planning or something, so we decided to let them sleep in.

Meanwhile, Ava was staying over at Dylan's for the night (which nearly gave me a hernia last night for the x-teenth time in a row).

Jasper is living with Kylie, his wife and high school sweetheart, so they're at their new apartment together. The got married just recently last January and soon after had their first child, a baby Talulah Jade, together, and who is turning 1 in three months. It was all sudden and a little bit fast, but Jasper is a good husband and father to Kylie and his daughter, working and putting himself through school, and Mal and I cant get enough of our granddaughter.

Zander is filming a documentary in San Francisco for a class project with Brandon and some other friends so he's out of town for the weekend.

I smiled as I kept watching Mal sleep, slowly stroking her cheek.

Me and her are coming up on our 25th wedding anniversary soon.

God.... How the fuck did I end up getting so lucky? How is she even mine?

This is a woman that has always been so fucking out of my league..... Puts even Aphrodite to shame with how beautiful she is...... Skin tougher than any metal in the universe.... She's caring beyond reason, loving..... The greatest doctor..... The strongest mother..... The greatest friend anyone could ever ask for.....

My other half.......... Where the hell would I be without her?

My thoughts are pulled away from Mal's face moving as she murmured softly and her brown eyes slowly opened, looking up at me sleepily before smiling.

"Good morning," I murmured as she stretched a little bit as she curled up closer to me.

"Good morning..." she murmured. "You're so warm...."

I chuckled as I hugged her close. "Well, enjoy it while you can, we gotta be up soon."

She just whined and curled closer into me. "Can't we just stay here in bed forever?" she mumbled.

I laughed as I rolled onto my back and she kissed the center of my chest and rested her head on my chest.

"We've got 3 hungry high schoolers that need breakfast soon," I said, stroking her back. "You know Micah can be a grouch when he's hungry."

"Yeah, wonder where he gets that from," she joked, making me scoff and smack her butt as she giggled.

She then smiled and looked up at me, reaching up and playing with my hair.

"Can't believe we're about to celebrate 25 years together," I added.

"Mmm, 34 years if you want to count Vegas," she said with a murmur, tracing her fingers over the tattoos on my chest.

I thought about it, then shrugged.

"Vegas was fun," I said, making her giggle and hug me close when suddenly there was scratching at the door and all of a sudden Leica and Houdini hot on barge in and tackle us in bed, making us laugh and shout.

"WHOAAA!!!"!!" I laughed loudly as Leica was licking my face, Mal squealing as Houdini was on her.

"Aaah! Okay, down!! Down!!" Mal laughed as she sat up, petting Houdini as then Micah came in, still in PJs.

"I tried stopping them," He said with an awkward chuckle as Houdini ran over and playfully tackled him to the ground while Nona came in.

"Stevie's still sleeping, but I got the coffee started," she smiled.

"You are a saint, dear daughter," I smiled as I sat up, trying to pry Leica off of me while Micah managed to get back up, carrying Houdini in his arms like a baby.

Mal also got up, throwing on her robe.

"Guess I'll get started on breakfast then," she said as she stretched and soon we were all heading downstairs.

***

"Here, honey," Mal said as she served an omelet to Micah, along with some sausages and hashbrowns.

"Thanks, Mom," he smiled as he put his phone down and started to eat.

"Micah, how about stop thinking with your stomach and help me with these college applications?" Nona scolded as she sat with her laptop and some brochures.

"We need brain fuel," Micah said with a full mouth.

"Then hurry and help me," Nona argued.

I looked up from his phone and notepad. "Hey, come on, Chip and Dale, no arguing during breakfast."

"Nona, honey, don't stress yourself," Mal said as she served Nona her omelet. "I'm sure you two are going to find a good college."

"I just really want to go to a good art school, Mom," she said. "And I don't want to miss any deadlines, I want to get everything done as soon as I can."

"You already have your portfolios out, and your work is even hung at your father's gallery and studio," she said.

"Yeah, and I have scouts coming in for our next match next weekend, I've already trained like crazy, still am," Micah said.

She sighed and pouted as Mal gently closed her folder.

"Come on, Crim, Micah's right about brain fuel. Eat up and I can help you both out," Mal said.

"Okay..." She mumbled as she closed her laptop and started to eat.

"Ah, come on, Mal, she can't help it," Nikki said, ruffling Nona's hair. "She's got your booksmarts after all. I mean, with those high ACT and SAT scores, she's as nerdy as you."

"Says the one with the glasses," Nona scoffed sarcastically as Micah laughed.

Mal giggled and rolled her eyes as she served me my breakfast.

"She's got a point, honey," she smirked. "Last I checked, a certain dorky someone had a cute bowl cut and big double-bridge glasses in the Class of '74."

Nona and Micah laughed as I gave her a look.

"Hey, I was pretty darn cute under all of that and it was the 70s, we all thought Disco and sweater vests were cool," I said.

Everyone laughed as she walked over and wrapped her arms around me.

"And that is why you are my favorite dork," she smiled.

"And you're my favorite nerd," I smiled as we shared a passionate kiss as I pulled her onto mylap, making the kids groan as then Stevie walked in.

"Gross, get a room, guys," Stevie groaned as she walked into the kitchen, her colorfully dyed hair displaying a prominent bed head.

"Good morning to you, too, sunshine," Micah snickered.

"You guys woke me up," she yawned as she sat at the table, Mal going to get her breakfast.

"Well, its morning," Nona said. "Besides, Mom and Dad's anniversary is coming up, so you know how they get."

"Oh right," she said as Mal set an omelet in front of her.

"Speaking of which, do you guys have something planned for this anniversary?" Micah asked.

Mal and I looked at each other as I shrugged.

"Well, I was thinking maybe a trip somewhere, little family time," I said, then looked at Mal. "What about you, baby?"

Mal thought about it. "Well, I've been thinking, and 25 years is a bit of a milestone afterall, so....."

I looked at her curiously as she took a deep breath.

"What if...." she said resting her head under her hands as she laid in my chest. "What if we renewed our vows?"

I looked at her with furrowed brows. "Renew them?"

"I like that idea," Nona smiled.

"Wait, so, Mom and Dad get married again?" Micah asked, confused.

"Well, not exactly. Its more like they just confirm that their wedding vows are still valid years after they first exchange them," Nona explained.

"Ooohh, you should make it a little ceremony!" Stevie said excitedly, now more awake and smiling.

"Well, sweetie, it doesn't have to be something major, just your mother and I renewing what we have always say to each other," I said, holding her hand.

"Yeah, but I mean, honey, look how far we've made it after all," Mal said as she wrapped her arms around me. "Why not celebrate it by living it all over again?"

I looked at her as I thought about it, when suddenly Ava and Dylan walked in.

"Hi Mom, hi Dad!" she greeted, making me smile as she hugged me from behind.

"Hey, Princess," I smiled as she kissed my cheek and then went to greet her mother.

"Hi, Mrs. Sixx," Dylan said as he shared a hug with Mal.

"Dylan, sweetie, I already told you, just Mallory or MJ is fine, or even Auntie is honestly fine with me, like when you were little," Mal assured him with a smile, ruffling his hair and making him laugh.

"Hehe, if you say so," He smiled.

"Well then I'm not going for Uncle Sixxter here now, its Mr. Sixx to you, got it, boy?" I said sternly.

"Daddy!" Ava scolded at me as the other laughed, Dylan looking a little worried.

"Oh honey, lighten up, he's your best friend's son," Mal scolded at me.

"That's why I'm paranoid," I grunted as I ate. "Hell, that fucking ulcer even came back, I can almost feel it."

Mal rolled her eyes as Stevie and the twins quietly laughed while Ava and Dylan took a seat.

"That ulcer isnt back, we made sure already, and no hernias either, so quit trying to make it come back," Mal scoffed. "Now finish your food, mister, and stop pouting already."

I grumbled quietly to myself as I ate.

"So, what were you guys talking about?" Ava asked curiously.

"Mom and Dad's wedding anniversary," Nona said as she finished sipping some juice.

"They were thinking about a wedding vow renewal," Stevie said.

"Cool," Dylan said.

"Sounds like an awesome idea! I say let's do it," Ava smiled. "Ooh! What if we have it in the backyard?"

"Oooh, yes, and we can have flowers and candles everywhere!!" Stevie added excitedly.

"Okay okay okay, hang on," I said as my daughters started to get excited. "Girls, we haven't even thought anything through."

"Oh honey, come on," Mal said softly as she walked over, standing behind me with her hands on my shoulders. "Maybe it'll be great, and we can all go on a trip like you want, too."

I thought about it as she rubbed my back.

"Wouldn't you want to relive that moment again.... Standing there, me walking towards you... You looking handsome in that tux, me in a white dress..... Ready to start another new adventure together....." she said. "I know I would love reliving one of the greatest days of my life...."

I couldn't help but smile as I remembered the day I married Mal, both times actually.

First time, even though I wasn't exactly sober and high off my fucking mind, I can still remember how beautiful she looked in that white dress.... Then laying next to her....

Then I remember our second time getting married, and.... God, Mal looked like a goddess... Always does, but this time.... When we danced our first dance..... Then waking up the morning of our honeymoon and seeing her face as she slept next to me... The sun lightly shining on it... Her sweet smell... The warmth of her body....

God, I am one lucky son of a bitch, and I honestly would give anything to relive that moment I saw her coming up the aisle, looking like an angel straight from the heavens....

What the hell... I'm in...

"You know what, baby... Let's do it," I smiled, wrapping an arm around her waist as the kids cheered. "We can have it here in the backyard, invite our closest friends and family, call a justice, and then we can all take a trip as a family, anywhere we want."

"Something warm this time!" Stevie said excitedly. "Like Hawaii!!"

"Or Spain, we can see the stadiums there," Micah said with a smile. "Or Fiji, too!!"

"I for one enjoyed the ski lodge in Alberta," Nona smiled. "But London is said to be quite lovely in the spring."

"I want to see India again, though!" Ava pouted as then the kids started a debate on where to go, making me and Nikki laugh.

"Alright, alright, come on guys, we can figure out our destination later," Mal said. "For now let's eat up so I can call your aunts to help us start planning."

The kids nodded as we all got settled and we continued breakfast.

◇◇◇

*Mallory*

"Deja vu all over again," Sharise giggled as we looked through some catalogs.

We settled to have a small, private ceremony for the day of our anniversary in our backyard, which is on a Saturday in almost 3 weeks, inviting our closest friends and family.

Nikki and I decided that our kids would be our bridesmaids and groomsmen. Tommy and his new girlfriend, Brittany, were going to be our witnesses, and I had asked Mick to walk me up the aisle again.

I met her and she's really sweet and super funny, and Tommy is really happy with her.

I've also met Seraina, Mick's girlfriend, who's really sweet and also cares a lot for him and makes him happy, which is all I could as for for him.

Today we were all meeting at Rain's house to start planning while Nikki and the guys got themselves some tuxes with the boys.

It was me, Sharise, Heather, Rain, Seraina, Pamela, Brittany and Lexi, drinking rosé (non-alcoholic, of course) while looking through magazines and catalogs for inspiration and ideas.

"Have you guys decided on a trip yet?" Rain asked me.

"Well the kids are practically wrestling to pick a place, so hopefully Jasper can keep them in line," I chuckled.

"Aww," Heather smiled. "He's always been such a peacekeeper."

I giggled, agreeing.

Since he is the oldest, Jasper always has a habit of being the leader of the group and taking charge of his siblings. He's been that way for as long as I can remember, really. It drives Zander and Stevie crazy, since they are both the most rebellious ones out of our six children. Ava and Micah look up to her big brother the most.

A determined leader, just like his father. Hehe.

"So, have you decided what you're gonna wear yet?" Brittany asked.

"Well, actually, Nona is gonna be designing the dress, as well as what her sisters will wear," I said. "She wants it to be a big surprise. "

"Oooohh, I can't wait to see what she comes up with," Heather smiled.

"I know she'll do great," I smiled as Sharise ahowed me a picture in a magazine of a floral arrangement and we all continued to discuss ideas.

***

*Nona*

"What about something that's all sparkly?" Ava asked.

"Well, I don't know... I don't think flashy fits well for a wedding vow renewal," I sighed, looking down at my sketchbook as me and my sisters, Kylie, Ellie and Dylan sat in the living room.

Dad was out with our brothers and Brandon and Neil while we were trying to figure out Mom's dress.

"Ugh, this is ridiculous!! We're going in circles over this!!" Stevie snapped.

"Calm down, Moon," Ava scolded. "Planning things like this take time."

"She's right. Let's not lose our heads on this just yet," I said. "Be glad our aunts are doing the ceremony planning while we're just doing the dresses."

Stevie just huffed with a pout as Leica nudged her for pets.

"There's got be something we can think of for this," Ellie said, looking at some of my sketches.

"Well, how about something symbolic to her?" Kylie suggested as she was feeding baby Talulah a bottle.

"Hmmm..." I said, thinking. "But what exactly?"

"Why not something from when she married Dad in Vegas?" Ava asked.

"I don't know where she has the dress, though," I said. "And the pictures are tucked away somewhere."

Before we could say anything, there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it," Stevie sighed as she got up, heading to the door.

Ellie was showing me something on the sketch as Stevie opened the door and then gasped.

"Uncle Michael!" Stevie screamed as we turned and she jumped into Uncle Michael's arms.

"Hello little one!" Uncle Michael as me and Ava got up and hugged him. "Haha, good to see you all!!"

"What are you doing here so early??" I asked as I looked up at him. "The ceremony isn't for another 3 weeks."

"Oh I was already in town, I figured I'd stop by to visit and see if I can hekp somehow," He chuckled as we walked in and noticed the sketches and fabrics on the table. "What are you all up to, then?"

"Nona's designing our mom's dress," Stevie said as we all sat down.

"I'm out of ideas, though," I huffed. "I want something that means a lot to my mom. Kylie said something symbolic, but we're not sure what."

Uncle Michael nodded and had a thinking look.

"Uncle Mike, our mom spent a lot of time you and your old band when you guys toured with the Crüe.... Do you have any ideas?" Ava asked.

He looked up at us.

"Hmmm.... Well... I do remember something," He said, a sad look in his eyes. "It has to do with an old friend of mine...."

We sat around curiously.

"I'm sure you all know the story about Razzle, correct?" he asked as he sat down.

We all frowned and looked at each other.

"Mostly just the accident back in the 80's... And our brother, her first baby... It hurts Mom to talk much about it, especially after her own car accident...." Ava said sadly.

"Well, then let me tell you a story, " He said as we got settled. "See.... There was a time that your mum and dad weren't together..."

"Yeah, they had split before getting back together a few years later," I said.

"Yes, and during that time, your mother and Razzle had found each other," he explianed. "He helped cheer her up from the heartbreak, and things were going well."

"She loved him...." Kylie smiled smiled.

"She did... Of course, not as much as she loved your father... But they did care about each other deeply, had a special bond," He said. "They were even going to move to London together..."

"Really? Mom was gonna run away to London?" Ava asked.

"Mhmm," he said. "Razzle had asked her to come with him."

"Shit...." Stevie frowned.

"Yep. It was mostly as an escape from a dark past, I don't know if she told you yet, but she was ready to fly across the pond with the old bloke, start all over again," he said, then sighed sadly. "Then the accident happened... It broke your mother in half when she was told what happened, especially with everything that followed afterwards...."

We frowned and looked down, Ellie shrinking away into the corner behind Ava.

"But like many of us, she still has the good memories with him, including one particular evening of their's, Razz wouldn't shut up about it," he scoffed softly with a smile, then looked over at Ellie.

Ellie is aware of Uncle Vince's role in the accident, and hates talking about it. After all, this is her father we still talk about when it comes to it. Neil gets the same way, hence why we don't really talk about it, especially around them.

"Ellie, love, its alright... There's no resentment, especially in your part," Uncle Michael told her. "Razzle wouldn't want any of that if he were here."

Ellie looked up and smiled shyly at him.

"Can you tell us what Razzle and Mom did on their date?" Ava asked curiously, changing the subject.

"Well, a regular date, ended with those two rascals crashing Gene Simmons party apparently, but that's another tale," Uncle Michael chuckled, making us laugh. "But before then they went to a dinner date, and then their song came on.... Leather & Lace..."

"Mom would sing that to us when we were little," I smiled.

"Yeah.... They danced to that song that night," Uncle Michael smiled. "In their own little bubble, according to Razz... Said she just loved Fleetwood just as much as she does now, and I even remember one little detail Razz mentioned, which may aid you ladies with your ideas."

"Which was?" Stevie asked.

He then smirked and looked at us.

"How familiar are you girls with BellaDonna?" he asked.

We all looked at each other before back at him.

***

*Jasper*

"God, why do I have to wear this stupid monkey suit?!" Zander grunted, fighting with the tie.

I sighed and rolled my eyes, walking over to fix his tie for him.

"Stay still before you cut off the air supply to your brain," I said as Brandon and Neil laughed at him while I helped.

"What color are you guys going for anyway?" Uncle Tommy said as he tried on a jacket as we looked over. "Brittany won't tell me shit, says I blab too much."

"You do, dumbass. Let's not forget Stevie's 5th surprise birthday party," Mick snapped.

"I FORGOT IT WAS A SURPRISE!!" Tommy argued.

We laughed as Uncle Mick rolled his eyes.

"We're not really going for something specific, guys," Dad said as he adjusted the blazer Micah was trying on alongside Uncle Mick. "Its not like we're actually getting married again."

"You know our sisters will disagree," I chuckled.

"Well, I do know Mal and Nona were considering a dark pink color this time," Nikki said. "Brittany is in charge of catering, and Sharise, Rain and Heather are on decorating the yard. Pamela is calling the justice for us, and Nona and her sisters are in charge of the dresses while we just buy ourselves some tuxes and suits."

"How about a tux that won't kill me!?!" Zander snarled as I turned and see him knotting the tie again.

I rolled my eyes and went to help him again.

"What was it like meeting Mom, Dad?" Micah asked.

Zander and I looked over, Uncle Tommy smiling.

"Well, I can't remember much of when I first saw her in the convenient store I worked in, but.... When I first actually saw her in that diner, I admit, even in a messy ponytail and tacky yellow waitress uniform that smelled like stale beer and maple syrup, covered in flour and ketchup stains, all after working a triple shift, she was just.... God, I couldn't even keep my eyes off her..."

We smiled over at him as he took a deep breath.

"Your mom was practically that popular A+ cheerleading student that probably would have never given me a chance in her lifetime, ever, way out of my fucking league, honestly," I said. "Yet she still agreed to even follow me out of that diner that night, especially after I broke her boss's nose in like 2 places and didn't pay my bill."

We burst out laughing as he chuckled.

"Hell, even today she's honestly out of my league," He admitted. "I mean, a doctor, a musician, an activist, an author, a dancer...... Yet I consider myself the luckiest man on earth to be able to call her my soulmate."

We all smiled at him.

"I really am glad I'm doing this, honestly... Reliving a moment like marrying your mother is just.... Fuck, I don't even have words..." Dad said.

We smiled as I patted his back. "I remember feeling that way when Kylie and I got hitched...."

Dad smiled up at me and held my shoulder. "I'm glad you found her, Jazz.....She's a hell of a lady," I said.

I nodded with a smile.

"Damn.... That's actually a great story...." Zander smiled. "Maybe I should punch my future girlfriend's boss and see if she likes it."

We all gave him a weird look as Mick groaned.

"You definitely got the right godfather, kid," Mick groaned.

"Heeeeyy," Tommy whined. "I'm not THAT bad."

"Oh face it, dude, you're hopeless," Vince scoffed as the guys laughed at him.

I then noticed Micah stared blankly at the mirror, looking lost in thought, so I walked over.

"Hey..." I said, placing my hand on my little brother's head. "You okay?"

"Hm... Oh, yeah... I'm alright..." he said awkwardly. "Just tired from all the training..."

"Don't overwork yourself," I said.

He smiled up at me and nodded. "I won't..."

I smiled down at him as we then went to continue the fitting.

***

*Mallory*

"Everything is starting to look great for the ceremony," I said as I finished brushing my hair.

"Yeah, I managed to pick a great tux, same for the boys," Nikki said, laying back in bed.

I got up from the ottoman when suddenly there was a knock at the door and we turned to see Houdini trot in with Micah behind him.

"Mom.... Dad... Can I talk to you guys?" Micah asked softly.

"Of course, honey, come here," I said as he walked over and sat on the edge of the bed with me.

Nikki moved over to sit with us just as Houdini hopped onto the bed.

"What's on your mind, pal?" Nikki asked him.

He gulped nervously. "Well... Its just.... Today talking about you and Mom, and..... I-It's just.... For a good while, I've felt.... Different...."

I frowned as Nikki and I looked at each other in confusion before back at our youngest son.

"What do you mean, sweetheart?" I asked.

He took a deep breath. "I... I'm not like Zander and Jasper.... I.... I don't.... I..."

Nikki placed his hand on Micah's back. "Is everything okay, Mikes? You were pretty quiet at the fitting, too, it worried Jasper a bit."

Micah looked up with water eyes at us.

"Sweetie?" I asked worriedly.

He just remained as calm as he could, taking a deep breath.

"I.... I like boys," He mumbled shyly.

Our eyes widen as Nikki and I looked at each other.

"Really? That's all?" I asked, holding his hand.

"I-I was scared to say anything since I don't know how you would react.... I heard things about how parents react, and...." He said shyly.

Nikki and I looked at each other again.

"Oh... Dougie... This isn't the middle ages, your mother and I don't care about any of that," Nikki assured, wrapping his arm around Micah.

He looked up at us. "R-Really?"

"Absolutely, honey. I mean, look at me," I said. "I'm bisexual, have been long before I even ever met your father."

His eyes widen in surprise. "You are?"

"Yeah, and honestly I never cared if your mom liked both guys and girls, I loved her no matter what, still do," Nikki said. "Same goes for you and your brothers and sisters."

"We love you so much, honey, and you being gay doesn't change any of that," I assured him as I held him close.

Micah sniffled and looked up at us. "I-I was so scared you two would hate me, o-or even send me away somewhere....."

"Never," Nikki said. "We love you so much, buddy. Other parents thatdo that don't deserve to be parents if they send their kid away for something like this."

"You and your siblings are blessings to us, honey... When I found out I was having you and your sister together, we were terrified that we would really lose you both.... I've miscarried when it was only one child, now imagine if it was two... The chances were higher, yet you two made it to us safe and sound...." I said, wiping away his tears before kissing his cheek. "We could never hate you over this Micah... Ever."

He took a deep breath, smiling behind his tears as we pulled him into a hug.

"We love you so much, buddy," Nikki said as he rubbed Micah's back. "Don't ever doubt that..."

"I love you both, too," He said as we held our youngest son in our arms.

"So, is there a special boy you like?" I asked him curiously with a soft smirk.

He giggled and blushed a little. "Not right now... I want to find the right one, you know... There is this cute guy in my history class I've been talking to....."

We smiled as Micah and us talked the rest of the night.

◇◇◇

>Day of the Ceremony<

*Nikki*

"Wow, Rain and Heather really outdid themselves with the flowers, Vince," I said as we looked at the now finished backyard.

(Picture: Example of the backyard)

The aisle overlooked the small lake we had, and the dining and dancing was gonna take place near the cool under a tarp we all set up earlier this morning, the women decorating it with flowers and candles and other stuff.

"Told you, dude. Rain's a pro at this," Vince said as Tommy walked over.

"Food's pretty good, too," He said, his mouth full.

"Dude, save some for the guests, you oinker," I scoffed as I smacked one of the finger foods he was eating from his hand back on his plate.

"Hey, I am just taste testing the food, making sure catering didn't fuck anything up," he said, picking up a cheese cube. "They passed the test so far."

I rolled my eyes as we snickered, watching him walk over to some friends.

"Its almost time, I'll start getting people seated," Vince said with a laugh as she headed towards some guests.

"I'll go with the ladies to check on the bride," Mick said as he walked over, Seraina holding his hand as they all walked towards the house.

That's when DJ walked over to me.

"You nervous?" he chuckled as he stood next to me.

I laughed a bit. "Only if she doesn't come back down," I joked, making him laugh.

"Come on, let's get you ready for the aisle, dude," he motioned.

I nodded as we headed to where my sons were.

*Mallory*

"And.... Done!" Heather smiled as she finished my make up.

I looked in the mirror and smiled as I admired the soft make up look she gave me, Seraina finishing my hair.

(Picture: Example of Mallory's hair and make up)

"Wow, I look amazing," I smiled. "And Seri, thanks for bringing back my big hair."

"Oh, you've had it bigger," Sharise chuckled. "Remember that Christmas party in Florida?"

"Oh, my god, let's not talk about that!!" I said as she and Heather burst out laughing.

"Was it that bad?" Rain chuckled.

"Horrible," Heather laughed. "Add the big hair we already had in the 80's with Florida's humidity, she made Nikki look like a speck of dust."

"Pfffftt!" Brittany and Seraina laughed as I chucked and rolled my eyes.

"Where's Nona with the dress by the way?" Brittany asked as she looked at the time on her phone.

"Right here!" a voice spoke as we turned and saw Nona, Stevie and Ava walk in, already dressed in their matching dresses, Stevie's once blue hair now a soft lilac color and little white flowers poking out of it, same with her sisters.

"Awww, girls, you look so beautiful," I smiled as Nona hung a black dress bag on the closet door.

"Thanks, Momma," Ava smiled as she hugged me. "You look gorgeous yourself."

"Thank you," I smiled.

"Is this the dress, Nona?" Sharise asked as she and Rain looked at the bag.

"Yes, it is!" And Stevie picked out the shoes," Nona smiled.

"Believe me, they were not easy to find in this era, but I know people, who know people," Stevie smiled as she applied some lip gloss on while standing at the mirror.

I chuckled curiously at her as I asked.

"So, what did you conjure up, Crim?" I asked her.

"Yeah, come on,w e gotta see it!" Brittany said excitedly.

Nona smiled shyly as she looked at Ava, who encouraged her.

"Well, I had an original idea of designing your dress, Mom," she said. "I was pretty stuck at first with it, though, until...... Uncle Michael was visiting from Finland early and stopped by."

I looked at her curiously as she took a deep breath.

"He told us the story about you and his band mate, Razzle.... " she said softly.

My eyes widen a little, the others going quiet and looking over worriedly.

"N-Nona...." I said softly, feeling nervous.

"He told us how you two had fallen in love once... Before he died...." she said sadly. "How much he meant to you..."

My eyes got watery and I sniffled as she continued, Sharise immediately going to sit next to me, her arm around me.

"Uncle Michael also mentioned how Razzle would talk about you a lot with him and his other band mates, and he remembered Razzle saying you really loved Stevie Nicks's new album at the time," Ava said as Stevie pulled out a black dress bag.

I looked over as Ava walked over and held my hand.

"We know you still miss him.... We remember Dad even told us about him a few times, and how he meant a lot to you back then...." she said sadly. "That's why he named Jasper after him..."

I pursed my lips as I tried not to cry, Heather sitting at my other side as she rubbed my back.

"Loosing him, it..... It was even worse when I lost our son..." I mumbled. "I do love your father, I still, do..... But Razzle and I still had something special....."

The girls smiled sadly as I tried to hold back my tears.

"After my own accident, I would just be remembering and.... Just thinking about what he probably went through b-before.... T-They said he most likely didn't feel anything since it was almost instant, but.... Y-You just start thinking, and....." I whimpered, a tear falling down my cheek as Heather hugged me and Sharise holding my hand, the others looking over sadly.

"We know, honey.... We know...." Sharise consoled as Pamela stood behind me, rubbing my back.

"He meant a lot to you..." Nona said. "And he'd want you to always be happy, we know that... Even today...."

I took a deep breath as my friend continued to comfort me.

"Sooooo...... the three of us and Uncle Michael put our heads together and helped create this for you," Stevie said.

"Sun did most of the stitch work , of course, but its definitely a perfect replica," Ava said with a smile.

"Replica?" I asked, furrowing my brows as I carefully cleaned the stray tear away.

The three girls smiled at each other before Stevie reached over and unzipped the bag, pulling out the contents.

"TA-DA!!!" The girls exclaimed as they showed the dress.

I gasped in complete surprise, feeling tears immediately spring from my eyes as I covered my mouth in shock, everyone gasping.

"Surprise!!" The girls smiled, showing off the dress.

"O-Oh my god...." I said, feeling more tears starting to form. "Girls...."

"I-Is that really...?" Heather asked in awe.

"Nona's got a sharp eye for detail," Ava smiled, nudging her sister proudly.

"I-Its practically a carbon copy," Seraina said as she examined it.

"Dad will definitely love seeing you in this number," Nona smiled. "And I know Razzle would love seeing you wear it too if he were still here... And he would be really happy for you, Mom..."

I sniffled, carefully wiping my tears and rushed over and pulled my girls into a hug.

"I love you girls so much," I said. "You have no idea how much this means to me..... Thank you...."

They giggled and hugged me tightly as the girls smiled.

"Well, come on," Stevie said excitedly. "Let's help you into it so you can walk down that aisle!!"

We all laughed and cheered as Nona got the dress off the hanger and we got to it.

***

*Nikki*

It wasn't long until our friends and family was seated, it was time to start.

I stood beside Tommy and Micah.

The kids stood on the stage, Zander at the drums while Jasper held his bass, Ava singing with a small tambourine in her hand, and Nona at the guitar.

Stevie and Brittany were gonna walk in with Mal and Mick. Sharise was gonna preside over the ceremony as our officiant, since there was really no need for any judges or pastors or whatever.

They say we don't have to be as formal or extravagant as our wedding was, but we figured it being 25 years we'd make it extra special.

Besides, we're rockstars.... We live for our flair and theatrics... Haha.....

I smiled at my kids as they got ready with a quick soundcheck, and that's when I noticed Dylan, who sat close to the stage, staring at Ava a little top much to my licking, a dazed and smiley look in his face.

I motioned to Vince who was next to him, who rolled his eyes and then somewhat smacked the back of Dylan's head, startling him as he quickly looked back forward at the alter, blushing furiously and making Pamela give me and Vince a scolding look as his brother tried not laughing at him, same for others surrounding.

I snickered as Tommy gave me a look then Sharise motioned to me, and that's when I noticed movement in the back, and Brittany motioned a thumbs up.

I nodded and spoke up.

"Everyone!" I called out, letting out a whistle to quiet them down. "I want to thank you all for joining us in the special day. Mal and I really appreciate having you all hear to join us, on this our 25th wedding anniversary. Me and her have a lot of history together, both good as well as bad, and honestly to even have her in my life at all is a blessing."

Everyone smiled and applauded as I decided to get us started.

"Now, before I bore you all with my constant talking," I joked, making everyone laugh softly. "Let's get on with the show, shall we?"

Everyone cheered and nodded as I held my hands up to quiet them.

"Hit it, Bubba!" I told Zander as I went back to my spot.

He twirled his drumstick with an excited smile on his face before tapping the drumsticks together and they all started to play Crimson & Clover, but a little more acoustically like they practiced.

(Video: Tommy James & The Shondells "Crimson & Clover")

"Ahh," Ava sung as the music started.

Everyone turned to the back to see Mal come in as Ava sang

Now I don't hardly know her
But I think I could love her
Crimson and clover

My eyes widen as then Mallory appeared with Mick at her side, Brittany and Stevie behind her holding her veil.

(Picture: Stevie Nicks from the BellaDonna album shoot, showing an example of the dress and boots that Mallory was wearing.)

Mallory smiled shyly at me as she and Mick walked down the aisle, everyone staring happily in awe.

Ah.....
When she comes walking over
Now I've been waitin' to show her
Crimson and clover
Over and over

I felt my eyes get watery as I watched Mal walk up the aisle, white flowers pinned to her hair, makeup done light, and carrying a bouquet of white roses.

She giggled bashfully at me as she walked.

God, I'm one lucky bastard....

There was no getting rid of the huge smile on my face as the music continued as she got closer and then Ava sang again, with Nona and the boys doing the harmonies.

Yes (da-da, da-da, da-da)
My my, such a sweet thing (da-da, da-da, da-da)
I want to do everything (da-da, da-da, da-da)
What a beautiful feeling (da-da, da-da, da-da)
Crimson and clover (da-da, da-da, da-da)
Over and over

Thy continued harmonizing a little and then came to a stop as soon she made it to me and Mick smiled and kissed the back of her hand before giving it to me, Stevie and Brittany going to their spot.

"You look amazing," I smiled as I kissed her cheek.

"You look pretty damn handsome yourself," she smiled as she held my hand.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to celebrate the 25th year of union between this man and this woman," the justice spoke. "25 years that are a part of a total of 37 years of adventures together. We are here today as they renew the promises they made to each other when they tied the knot."

I smiled as I looked at her, seeing her smile up at me.

"Now, let's have the Unity Candles, please?" Sharise asked, getting a large white pillar candle from nearby.

Stevie then stepped up along with Micah and gave me and Mal each a long white candle, base decorated in flowers.

Tommy then came up at lit a larger candle as Sharise held the candle in her hands.

"Now, who would like to go first?" she asked us.

I looked over at Mal who smiled and nodded. "I'll go..."

Brittany handed her a folded piece of paper and Mal opens it, beginning to read.

"Nikki..... Already its been almost 40 years since I took your hand and followed you out of that diner I worked at and into a lifetime of many adventures together with you, along with Vince, Tommy and Mick.... We've laughed together, we've cried together, we've fallen apart and fixed each other during our highs and lows, we've been through it all," Mal said as she read her paper. "Despite all we've been through, I don't regret a single moment of my life after walking out of that diner, a jar full of dollar bills and pennies in my hand as you, me, and also Tommy took the next step into a new story..."

I smiled as she continued, my eyes feeling more watery.

"Quoting one of your songs, 'without you I am lost....' You are my other half, my best friend, my biggest supporter, the greatest father to our children, and the greatest husband I could ever ask for," She said. "I promise to continue to always be at your side, forever and always... To hold you in your darkest moments... To be there for you when you need someone most..... I'm not gonna leave.... Ever... I promise.... To our years lived and to many more adventures, baby..."

I smiled as I leaned over and hugged her tightly, everyone 'awww'ing at us.

"Beautiful, Mallory," Sharise smiled as we pulled back and stood in front of each other again. "Okay, Nikki, you're turn."

I took a deep breath as I pulled out the paper from my jacket pocket and opened it, reading it out loud.

"37 years.... 444 months.... about 13,505 days...... I had to Google that since I suck at math," I said making me and everyone else laugh. "Mal... I've said this a billion times and I don't think I can say it enough, but.... I wouldn't even be here without you...."

"My only regret since meeting you was taking the shine from your eyes and filling them with bitter tears whenever I fucked up and was too doped out of my fucking head to realize that I was hurting you the most out of everyone," I said. "When I left rehab the last time, I made a promise to myself that I would never again let those beautiful chocolate browns lose their sparkle and that the only tears that would fill them would be of happiness.... Of joy.... And I am promising here today to you not only that again but also my heart to you, like you promise yours to mine..."

Mal's eyes got watery as she looked up at me, and everyone else looked pretty teary as Sharise motioned and lit my candle.

Hell, I'm about to fucking lose it right now!

"I love you, babe, and I promise I am never gonna leave you.... Ever...." I said. "You're the greatest thing to ever happen to me, to happen to our kids, the most strongest woman I have ever met in my life, and I will forever and always love you no matter what happens..."

She smiled up at me, wiping away a tear as I finished.

*Mallory*

"Alright, now, at the same time, light your candles on this flame while Brittany and Tommy tie the sash together," she said.

We nodded as then Tommy and Brittany came up and tied each end of the sash to our candles as we lit them and then held them.

Brittany managed to tie a bow on the candle whereas Tommy ended up getting his finger stuck in a knot.

"Fuck...!" He muttered under his breath, trying to get it out.

I heard Mick groan and facepalm as Vince and the other guys snickered and laughed at Tommy and Nikki gave him a look.

Sharise then sighed and rolled her eyes and put her candle down before walking over and trying to get his finger out, smacking his hand as he kept tugging before finally freeing him.

"OUCH!!" he whined as he and Brittany then stepped back, Brittany trying to act casual as Tommy just pouted in his spot and rubbed his hand.

I giggled quietly, the kids also laughing, as Nikki tried not to laugh himself but still smirked as he shook his head.

The guys were quietly laughing, trying not to be loud, as well as the boys.

"Alright, well, I now pronounce this love to still be forever strong," Sharise smiled. "Come on, you two. You can kiss now."

We laughed as me and Nikki shared a passionate kiss.

Everyone Zander kicking the pedals on his drums excitedly as we laughed and waved at everyone.

"Alright, TIME TO PARTY!!!" Tommy suddenly shouted, making us all laugh.

***

*Vince*

I watched from the table as Nikki and Mal sat near each other at their own table, talking and each other's arms while everyone talked, ate, danced and laughed, enjoying the evening.

"Almost 40 years together.... Its incredible, " Rain smiled as we admired them.

"Yeah... The five of us definitely have our share of years together, but Nikki and MJ.... That's something for the histpry books," I said. "They share something stronger than anything I've ever seen, or else we all wouldn't be here today."

Rain smiled up at me. "In a way.... She's also here, too, because of you, babe...."

I looked at her, confused.

"Yeah, Mick is like her dad, but I'm sure if she didn't have you as a best friend, hell, a brother...." She said, then smiled. "You two share a special bond, too....."

I smiled. "Yeah... MJ's always been like another sister to me, and I always just wanted to make sure she was happy.... And I' glad she is..." I said as I looked up, seeing her and Nikki now laughing with Zander and the Twins about something.

Rain smiled and kissed my cheek as we continued to enjoy the evening.

Dancing. Eating. Drinking, (The only alcoholic drinks we had was wine and champagne, but only a few other guests drank that. Nikki made sure there was barely anything alcoholic being served and it was controlled). Laughing. Talking.

Soon the ladies decided to have a bouquet toss for fun.

"Ready ladies!?" MJ shouted excitedly as she stood a few feet away next to Lexi.

"Alright boys, Round 2, let's do this!!!" Steven laughed, since he was also invited, as we watched all the women crowd nearby, a few already at each other's throat.

"Its not like its valid this time, this is just all for fun," Nikki scoffed as he sipped his glass of sparkling cider.

"One... Two... THREE!!!" MJ shouted as she tossed the bouquet over her head and all the ladies went at each other.

The bouquet flew until it ended up being caught by....

"Ava, oh my gosh!!" Stevie squealed as Ava stared at the bouquet in surprise, giggling and cheering as she blushed while the girls gushed around her, some jealous of her.

Nikki suddenly spat out his cider, making us all jump back in surprise.

Dylan, who was also nearby, spat out his drink before looking over worriedly at Nikki as Brandon, Zander and Neil laughed hysterically at him, shaking the poor boy by the shoulders a bit..

"Oh shit, guys, look at this huge vein on his forehead," Slash scoffed as he pointed at Nikki, Steven and I trying not to laugh.

Mick snickered. "This oughta be good."

Ava had run up and hugged a frozen Dylan excitedly as Nikki looked like he was about to have a stroke and decapitated Dylan while having it.

Nikki groaned as he sat down hand over his abdomen.

"Dude, you good?" Sebastian asked him, looking over.

"I think that hernia came back...." Nikki groaned, making us hold back a laugh.

"Come on, buddy, before you blow a fuse," Tommy laughed as me and Steven pulled him to his feet. "But hey, not a bad idea to be in-laws, right?!"

Nikki gave Tommy a look as I snickered and we headed to enjoy the rest of the party.

***

*Mallory*

The party soon ended and everyone either went home or crashed in our guest rooms (Mostly family and a few friends who had a little too much to drink, a few wanting to sleep over like Vince and Rain and Mick and Seraina).

Nikki and I sat on the patio swing while we watched from nearby as the kids were playing around in the pool, still in their clothes.

Since Zander and Brandon decided to wrestle each other for a piece of cake, ending up in the pool, soon pulling in Jasper when he tried pulling them out, then Stevie and Ellie decided to jump in for fun and from there on the kids (and Tommy and Brittany) joined them, along with Leica and Houdini.

I leaned close against his body, hugging him as he held his arms around me.

"Today was an amazing day," I said, looking up at him as I rested my head on his chest.

He looked down and smiled. "It was.... I'm really glad we did this..."

I smiled. "Me, too," I smiled.

We looked over to see as Jasper and Zander had Nona on his shoulders while Zander had Stevie on his and they tried to knock each other into the water, everyone else either swimming around or sitting at the edge and cheering them on.

"Now to decide where to go for our trip," I said.

"Actually," Nikki said, making me look up as he reached into his jacket pocket. "We can start packing for anniversary trip tomorrow."

I looked up at him curiously as he held up a brochure to me.

"Happy anniversary, baby," He smiled.

I curiously got it and realized it was for a resort in the....

My eyes widen. "T-The Maldives?!..... Nikki.... H-How...!?"

"Heather has one hell of a travel agent and she happens to also know the right people. Just think babe, 2 weeks at one of the most luxurious water villa resorts, undisturbed, a romantic dinner over the clear blue ocean at night," he smiled as he held me close. "We'll be taking the Crüe jet."

I laughed softly as I looked through the brochure.

"It's gonna be you, me, our kids, Kylie and Lulu are coming, too, along with Zander's girl... I'll let Dylan come for Ava's sake, but the boy sleeps in his own bungalow," he said, rolling his eyes at the end and making me laugh and lean over, kissing his cheek and hugging him tightly.

"I love you," I smiled.

He blushed and kissed me passionately. "I love you, too."

I smiled as I curled up to him, enjoying some more time with my other half.

Best. Anniversary. Ever.

~~~~~

Sending all my love to sadgrrlfriend who really needs it most these days. Love you always, sis. 🖤

Also, this is mostly really freaking long because on top of wanting to make a scene about Mallory & Nikki renewing their vows together, I also wanted to show pretty much a day in the life of their kids, how they interact, and pretty much Mallory and Nikki being parents.

Was also feeling a bit inspired since my parents are also ironically going to be celebrating their 25th anniversary of marriage together in a few days. 😁🤵🏻👰🏻💐💍💒❣

I might make a Deleted Scene based on just the kids, but we'll see!! 😁🤷🏻‍♀️

Hope you all still enjoyed this part! 🌻

🎶 Currently in Sapph's playlist:

Sofia Reyes
"Conmigo (The Rest of Your Life)
(Translation: With Me)

♡~ sapphire.