The day of her departure arrived, and the village turned out in force to see her off. They waved as Huyen stepped into the luxurious black sedan the agency sent to pick her up, and she waved back. Even her father waved, and the sight filled her with hope.

The ride to the airport was a blur of well-wishes and tears. Huyen spent the ride in silence, feeling a lump form in her throat as she thought about all the people she was leaving behind. The driver expertly navigated through the crowded streets of Saigon, and soon enough, they arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

The airport itself was a bustling hive of activity, with people from all over the world hurrying about their business. Huyen was guided through the security checkpoint and then directed to her departure gate. She had a few hours to spare, so she decided to explore the airport and try to pass the time. Then an idea occurred to her. Why not get John a small souvenir?

She wandered through the shops, browsing the various items for sale. She eventually settled on a small, intricately carved wooden box, painted with scenes of the Vietnamese countryside. It was a perfect reminder of her home and the people she loved.

When her flight boarded, Huyen’s heart began to race. This was it. Once she stepped on that plane there was no going back. She’d be leaving behind everyone and everything she’d ever known.

But then she thought of John, and her heart swelled with hope. He was out there, and she was going to go to him. She imagined what it would be like to meet him at the altar on their wedding day, to share their lives together, to start a new family in a new land. She imagined the laughter and the love that would fill their home, and the adventures they would have together. And with that thought, she felt a renewed sense of determination and purpose.

She stepped on the plane, and was directed to a luxurious seating area separate from the rest. “You’ve been upgraded to first class,” the flight attendant explained.

Huyen knew this must be John’s doing. What a wonderful man he was!

The flight attendant helped her into her seat and fastened her seatbelt. As she settled in, she took a moment to admire the luxurious surroundings. The plush leather seats, the soft carpet beneath her feet, and the attentive service all around her. It was like being in a dream.

Takeoff was frightening for her. Huyen, never having flown before, clutched her seat tightly as the plane lifted off the runway. But as they climbed higher into the sky, her fear began to subside, replaced by a sense of wonder and excitement. She marveled at the clouds beneath her, like gentle white blankets spread across the horizon. Everything looked so small from such a height!

The flight attendant came by with a tray of refreshments, and Huyen accepted a Coke. She’d always heard of it but never tried it, and it was certainly very American.

She took a hesitant sip and her eyes widened with delight. It was delicious, and very sweet!

The flight attendant smiled at her reaction and introduced herself as Emily. “Would you like to order an in-flight meal?”

Huyen nodded, glancing down at the menu. The food all looked delicious, but she wasn’t sure what half of it was. Emily noticed her confusion and explained a few of the dishes before helping her choose a traditional American meal: a cheeseburger with fries. As she waited for her meal, Huyen continued to marvel at the scenery outside the window. The sun was setting now, painting the clouds in shades of orange and pink.

When her meal arrived, the cheeseburger smelled amazing, and the taste was unlike anything she’d ever had before. The soft bun, the juicy patty, the tangy cheese, and the crisp lettuce and tomatoes were all so flavorful. She cleaned her plate without realizing how much she’d eaten. As she ate, she thought about how different this experience was from the meals she’d shared with her family back home.

As the flight continued, Huyen tried to sleep, but the unfamiliar surroundings and the noise of the engines made it difficult. She eventually gave up and watched a movie on the built-in screen in front of her. It was a Western starring a man called Clint Eastwood, and Huyen watched, enthralled, as his character, “The Man with No Name,” faced off against various villains in dusty frontier towns. She’d never seen anything like it before but found it very enjoyable!

Huyen watched one movie after another, including “Interview With a Vampire” which was partially set in New Orleans. She found the story fascinating, but also frightening. The vampires in the movie seemed dangerous and cruel. She hoped that the people she would meet in America would not be like them. But she also liked the sight of the great southern oak trees dripping with moss, and the beauty of the swamps at night. There was an eeriness about them that she found appealing. Then she watched “Dirty Harry,” again with Clint Eastwood, and marveled at the beauty of San Francisco Bay. The main character in that movie seemed to have a strong sense of justice, but his willingness to break the rules made Huyen pause. Then she watched Beethoven, and immediately fell in love with the huge dog. Perhaps John would let her get one?

Hours later, the plane began its descent. Huyen felt a mixture of anticipation and fear as they approached the Louis Armstrong International Airport. As the wheels touched down, Huyen leaned forward, her hands clasped together, and took a deep breath. She was finally here.

It felt almost surreal as she disembarked. Her unusual outfit earned her some curious glances but she did her best to ignore them. Huyen went up to the immigration checkpoint and, after Turing over her suitcase for inspection, showed her green card and papers to a stern-looking man at the counter. He looked over them closely.

”Mail order bride?” he asked drily.

Huyen reddened a little. “I…um…”

“You’re from Vietnam?”

“Y-yes…”

He grunted as he waited for another officer to finish inspecting her luggage. When he gave the thumbs up, the man behind the counter stamped her paperwork. “Welcome to America. Next!”

Huyen gathered her belongings and made her way through the airport, following the signs to the exit. She didn’t need to go to baggage claim, having brought her only suitcase on the plane with her. When she neared the doors, she began looking for John, expecting to see him waiting for her. What she saw instead was a man in a black suit and tie holding a placard with her name on it in English.

Huyen stopped, confused. There was a man down there with a placard bearing her name in English, but it wasn’t John. It couldn’t be! He was at least 20 years older and skinny as a rail.

The man saw her and approached. When he got close enough, he inclined his head respectfully.

“You are Ms. Huyen?” he asked in a polite tone.

Huyen nodded mutely, still trying to process the fact that the man standing before her was not the one she had met online. The chauffeur, whose name tag read ‘Leonard’, smiled gently. “Forgive any confusion. I am John’s chauffeur and personal valet. My employer would have come himself, but was delayed at his work. He will have finished by now, but he sends his profound apologies and hopes you will not be offended. He has sent me to pick you up in his stead.” Leonard smiled. “He is very excited to meet you. For weeks he has talked of little else.”

Huyen managed a shy smile, still feeling somewhat disoriented. Leonard nodded toward her suitcase. “If you would like, I can take that for you.” She handed him the suitcase and followed him out to the waiting limousine. The interior was immaculate, with plush leather seats and a mini-bar. Leonard slid into the driver’s seat and turned to face her. “Please, relax and make yourself comfortable. You must be very tired.”

The limousine pulled away from the curb and merged into the stream of traffic. As they drove, Leonard pointed out various landmarks, including the French Quarter and the Mississippi River. Huyen gazed out the window, marveling at the size and scope of the city. She had expected New Orleans to be more like Saigon, but it was nothing like that at all. It was cleaner, more orderly, and the people seemed more relaxed. And the oak trees were even more stunning in real life.

“Those trees are beautiful,” Huyen said quietly, pointing at one as they passed. “They are so big and majestic looking.”

Leonard smiled. “Yes, ma’am. The oak trees are one of the city’s most famous landmarks. They’ve been here for centuries, and they’re a symbol of strength and resilience. Just like the people of New Orleans.” He glanced over at her. “You’ll find that the people here are quite unique. We have a mix of cultures, languages, and backgrounds. We take pride in our diversity.”

“Are there Vietnamese people here?” Huyen asked hopefully, in her clipped, softly accented English. “I sorry if my English isn’t good.”

Leonard smiled reassuringly. “Yes, there are quite a few Vietnamese people in New Orleans. In fact, there’s a large Vietnamese community here, primarily in the Eastern part of the city. They’ve been here for several decades now, and they’ve managed to hold onto their culture and traditions. I’m sure John would love for you to become part of it even as you become part of his life.”

Relief flooded through Huyen. It was so comforting to know that there were people here who understood her and could help her feel at home. She had been so nervous about meeting John, worrying that he would be disappointed in her or that she wouldn’t be able to live up to his expectations. But hearing Leonard talk about the Vietnamese community made her feel more at ease. Surely they would help her acclimate just like they had!

Leonard turned the car down another street, and the brightly painted shotgun houses began giving way to larger homes. “We are entering the Garden District now,” he said offhandedly. “Some of the oldest, grandest and most historic houses in the city are located here.”

As they continued driving, Huyen couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the homes they passed. Many of them were adorned with intricately-wrought iron balconies and towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The gardens were meticulously maintained, with blooming flowers and well-manicured lawns. It was a stark contrast to the bustling city center they had left behind. Each house had a unique elegance and beauty to it, a regal, stately design.

Finally, Leonard pulled up in front of a grand, antebellum mansion, the grandest house she’d seen so far. It was surrounded by a high, artfully sculpted fence made of wrought iron. The front gates, made of the same material, were at least twice as tall as she was.

“This is John’s house,” Leonard said. “And now yours as well. Welcome home.”

Huyen’s jaw dropped as she took in the beauty of the place, with its stately columns, wraparound porch, large windows and elegant gurgling fountains. A huge oak tree with moss dripping from its branches covered almost two thirds of the courtyard in shade, and flowers—mainly azaleas—bloomed in bright shades of red and pink in carefully-cultivated flowerbeds.

She couldn’t help but wonder how someone like John, who seemed so down-to-earth, could possibly live in such a grand home. But then again, she reminded herself, he was a very successful man who’s worked hard to get where he was in life.

As she climbed out of the car and stood on the cobblestone driveway, she took in the sights and sounds around her. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the chirping of birds. A butterfly fluttered past, its wings painted with intricate patterns. Even the distant sound of a jazz band playing somewhere in the city seemed to add to the ambiance.

“It’s beautiful,” she whispered.

Leonard smiled. “Yes, it is. John has spent the last several days making sure it was presentable. He hired professional landscapers and gardeners to do the lawn and brought in an entire cleaning crew to make sure the house was clean. He wanted to make the best possible impression.”

Huyen felt even more overwhelmed. It seemed like so much effort just to impress her. She didn’t know what to say or do. She was still getting used to the idea of living in such a grand house. “I-I don’t know what to say,” she managed. “He…he did not have to…”

Leonard chuckled. “Oh, yes he did. He insisted on it. He’s a bit of a perfectionist, but I think that’s part of what makes him so successful. He’s always striving to be the best at whatever he does, and he expects nothing less from those around him.”

Huyen nodded, still feeling a little overwhelmed. As they walked up the steps to the front door, she marveled at the intricate details of the wrought iron work on the railing and the balusters. The door itself was made of solid oak, with a brass knocker in the shape of a lion’s head. Leonard rang the doorbell, and a few moments later, it swung open to reveal the man she’d crossed an ocean for.

Huyen’s heart skipped a beat as she took in his appearance. He was even taller than his pictures let on, for one thing. His blonde hair was grown just long enough to brush his collar, and his face was handsomer than any photo could capture. His eyes were a piercing green, and he was wearing a smile that could light up a room. He was dressed casually in a pair of dark blue jeans and a crisp, white button-down shirt, which only served to accentuate his broad shoulders, chiseled stomach and trim waist.

“You’re here,” He said, as if unable to quite believe it. “And you’re even more stunning than I’d hoped. Welcome, Huyen. I’m so, so happy to finally meet you.”

Huyen was momentarily taken aback by his words and his intense gaze. She found herself speechless for a moment, her cheeks flushing as she tried to compose herself. “Th-the honor is mine,” she managed in a quiet voice. She bowed deeply. “I am happy to be here as well. Thank you for choosing me.”

John stepped forward and took her hand, kissing it. His touch sent a shiver down her spine. “There was no choice,” he assured her. “The moment I saw your photograph for the first time, I knew you were meant for me.”

Huyen glanced up at him, her heart racing. He truly was everything she’d imagined and more. She felt a sudden urge to run her fingers through his hair, to pull him closer and feel the warmth of his body against hers. But she held back, remembering her place. Instead, she smiled shyly at him.

As they stepped inside, she took in the lavish interior of the house. The floor was made of marble inlaid with intricate designs, and the walls were adorned with paintings and sculptures. The furniture was a mix of antique and modern, all of it exquisitely crafted and well-maintained. A grand staircase of dark polished wood curved up to the second floor, its banister carved with delicate vines and flowers. The light that streamed in through the tall windows was soft and golden, casting a warm glow over everything.

John led her into a sitting room with large windows overlooking the garden. A grand piano sat in one corner, its polished wood gleaming in the light. A fireplace, currently unlit, stood opposite the piano. The room was filled with comfortable-looking furniture, all upholstered in rich fabrics and arranged in such a way that they invited relaxation and conversation.

He gestured for her to take a seat on the plush couch, and as she did so, he perched on the armrest nearby. Their proximity made her heart race even faster, and she could feel the heat radiating off his body. She couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to sit closer to him, to feel the warmth of his skin against hers.

“Tell me all about yourself,” John said, leaning forward a little. “I want to know all about you, Huyen.”

She turned pink. “In…in truth, there is not much to tell. I come from a small village in Vietnam, near the Mekong River. It is a small community but the people are very warm and kind. My parents are rice farmers, as were their parents and grandparents. My father’s family has been cultivating rice in the same fields for many generations, though we also have chickens and pigs. One of my earliest memories is of my mother teaching me how to get eggs out from under the hens without being pecked.” She paused. “We also have a rooster. It is very mean and my father hates it. He says it is a demon cloaked in feathers.”

John laughed. “I believe it. Roosters are not known for being friendly. What’s it like, farming rice? It’s a staple here in New Orleans but I never thought much about how it’s grown. You need lots of water, right?”

Huyen nodded. “Yes, lots of water. We live near the river, and the fields are very flat. The rice paddies are divided into sections, and we work on them as a family. It is hard work, but it is also peaceful. I remember spending hours as a child, wading through the water to plant the young rice seedlings, or harvesting the ripe stalks. It is very hard work, but very rewarding, and we always grew enough to make ends meet. I never went hungry.”

John listened intently, his eyes fixed on hers as she spoke. He found her accent enchanting, and the way she talked about her life made him feel as though he’d known her for years. “What about the pigs? How often do you butcher them? Did you help with that too?”

Huyen shook her head. “My father and brothers did the slaughtering. My father didn’t want my sisters and I to see it, so he kept us away. But I could hear them, and sometimes I could smell the smoke from their fires. It was always a sad time, but we knew it was necessary for us to have meat to eat. We would always thank the pigs for giving up their lives to feed us, and we would honor their memory by using every part of them, even the bones for making soup. It was a way of showing respect, I think. Even now, when I eat pork, I think of the pigs we raised and the time we spent with them. It makes the food taste better somehow.”

John nodded thoughtfully. “That’s a good way of looking at it. What about your village? Describe it to me. What are your neighbors like? How many people live there? Is it very isolated?”

Huyen smiled at the memory. “Our village is not very large, perhaps fifty or sixty families. Most of the houses are built from wood and thatch, with small gardens out front where the women grow vegetables and herbs. The men often spend their days fishing in the river, or tending to the rice fields. The children all play together when there isn’t work to be done.”

“Fishing?” he asked eagerly. “I love fishing! What fish do you catch? Which ones are good to eat?”

Huyen laughed. “Oh, there are many different kinds of fish in the Mekong. Some are very large, almost as big as a man. One of these are the snakeheads, which can grow to be quite long and fierce-looking. They are good eating too, but you must be careful when you handle them, as they can bite quite hard. My brother Binh got bitten very badly once and still has the scars.”

John winced. “Does your village have a doctor?”

Huyen shook her head. “No, but we have a local healer who knows many of the traditional medicines. But most of the time, we can treat injuries ourselves. We have many herbs and plants in our gardens that can be used for healing. As for more serious ailments, we must travel to the nearest city.”

“Tell me about your siblings. How many do you have? What are they like?”

Huyen smiled as she recalled her family. “I have three sisters and two brothers. My sisters are Minh, Hong and Lan. My brothers are Binh and Hai. My sister, Minh is the youngest. She is fifteen but very blunt and plain-spoken. My mother worries her tongue will drive off all the boys,” Huyen giggled. “Lan is sixteen and the most serious of all of us. She wants to be a teacher and spends most of her time studying. Hong is seventeen and the most beautiful of all of us. She has many admirers, but she is very shy and doesn’t like to talk about boys. My brother Binh is the oldest and the one I am closest to. He is strong and brave, and always looks out for me. In fact, he…” she blushed. “Before I left, he said he’d kill you if you made me cry.”

John chuckled. “I’d expect nothing less.”

Huyen smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. She went on to tell him about her other siblings and her life in the village, painting a vivid picture of their daily routines, their customs, and their relationships with one another. John listened intently, seemingly fascinated by her experiences of living in such a close-knit community, and Huyen was thrilled at his genuinely interested he seemed.

“What are some traditional Vietnamese dishes you think I’d like?” he asked.

Huyen’s eyes lit up at the mention of her favorite subject. She began to describe her mother’s recipes for pho, banh mi, and spring rolls, using her hands to illustrate the way they were prepared and the flavors that went into each dish. “I would love to cook some for you,” she added. “I will make whichever one you want! But…” Huyen hesitated. “I would like to know more about you too, John. Please, tell me about yourself.”

A flicker of something mournful passed over his face and his smile faded. “I wish I could say my upbringing was as happy as yours,” he said. “But that would be a lie, and I will never lie to you, Huyen. Not ever. I am an orphan. My parents died when I was a baby and I do not even have pictures to remember them by. I was placed with a foster family by the state. My foster mother didn’t care about me and my foster father could barely afford to feed me. I went hungry a lot growing up. As I got older, I vowed I would never go hungry again.” He gestured at the luxury around them. “It’s fair to say that I began to desire wealth due to want of it. But I would have traded all of it to grow up like you did, surrounded by so many people who love and care about you. I’m truly envious.”

Huyen felt her soul ache with sympathy. She imagined John as a child, hungry and sad and all alone. Just the thought was too much to bear. She couldn’t imagine growing up that way, bereft of the love and support of her family and her village. How had John been able to endure it? He must have been so terribly lonely! Tears welled up in her eyes, but she fought them back, not wanting him to see her cry.

“Oh, John,” she whispered. “I am so sorry. No one deserves to be alone like that. But you are not alone anymore, and never will be again. I am here now.”

“You know, John,” she added. “Sometimes, the struggles we endure are necessary for us to grow and become who we are meant to be. They shape us, make us stronger. It’s how we learn compassion and empathy, to appreciate the things we have and the people in our lives. My grandmother says that the trials of life can either temper and strengthen us like steel, or break us like brittle iron.”

His handsome face broke into a grin. “She sounds like a very wise woman. I would like to meet her one day.”

Huyen smiled back. She could see the genuine warmth in his eyes and felt a connection with him that went beyond mere attraction. It was as if they had known each other for years, sharing stories and secrets.

“I would like that very much too,” she said. “I would love for you to see my village one day.” There was a new light in her eyes, as if she had discovered something wonderful about John and was eager to explore it further. But then the conversation was interrupted by the butler’s soft knocking on the door.

“Dinner is served,” he said officiously.

Huyen smiled and rose gracefully from her chair. John took her hand, helping her up. Where their skin touched, they both felt a jolt of mutual attraction.

As they followed the butler into the dining room, John asked, “The outfit you’re wearing is very beautiful. What is it called?”

Huyen felt a blush creep up her cheeks. “It…it is called an ao dai. It’s a traditional dress worn by Vietnamese women. I am glad you like it. My mother and some of the other women in the village made it for me as a wedding gift before I left.”

John was clearly impressed. “It’s beautiful, as are you,” he said.

They took their seats at the elegantly set dinner table. The meal was served in bowls of fine, antique china and the silverware was made of actual silver. Huyen gripped a spoon hesitantly as two large bowls were set before her. Each was filled with what looked like some sort of stew.

“Crawfish etouffee and seafood gumbo,” John said. “Two of my beloved city’s signature dishes, famous the world over. Please, try them.”

Huyen nodded, feeling a bit nervous. She had never eaten anything like this before, but she didn’t want to appear ungrateful. She picked up her spoon and took a tentative taste of the crawfish etouffee. The flavors were bold and rich, with a subtle hint of spice that danced on her tongue. The seafood gumbo was equally delicious, with a complex blend of seafood and spices that seemed to melt in her mouth. She couldn’t help but close her eyes and savor the taste, reveling in the new experience.

“Here.” John pushed a plate of what looked like strips of fried meat across to her and winked. “Try this next. You’ll never guess what it is.”

Huyen took a bite, her eyes widening in surprise. The meat was delicious, with a crispy texture on the outside and a tender, juicy center. The taste was puzzling; it was neither chicken nor pork nor beef.

“What is it?” she asked. “I am curious to know. It is very good!”

“It’s alligator!” John revealed melodramatically.

Huyen broke into a fit of giggles. “Truly? I’ve never heard of eating such a thing. But I like it! It’s very good!”

The rest of the meal passed in a similar vein, with John regaling her with stories about the city and its history. He told her about the famous French Quarter and the Spanish architecture that adorned many of the buildings. He spoke of the vibrant jazz scene and the incredible food that could be found in every corner of the city.

Huyen sat and listened to every word, utterly enthralled. John was a masterful storyteller. When he told her of the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, she could almost hear the cannon fire. When he regaled her with the exploits of the pirate Jean Lafitte, it was almost as if Huyen herself stood on the deck of his ship.

As the night wore on, they retired to the living room. They sat on the plush sofa, gazing out at the city lights reflecting off the Mississippi.

“I’m so happy you’re here,” he said, turning to look into her eyes.

Huyen felt a shiver of anticipation run down her spine. She had never been so close to a man before, not like this. His eyes seemed to hold a depth of emotion that she had never encountered before.

John reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.

Huyen felt her heart skip a beat as he opened it, revealing a sparkling diamond ring that glittered like a star in the dim light. “Oh, John…” she breathed. “It’s beautiful!”

He took her hand in his, slowly sliding the ring onto her finger. It fit perfectly. Huyen looked up at him, her eyes shining with tears of happiness. She wanted to tell him how much this meant to her, how much she had always dreamed of finding someone like him. But the words caught in her throat, and all she could do was nod and smile.

“You are so beautiful,” he whispered, brushing a stray strand of black hair from her face. “You are everything I could have ever hoped for in a wife.”

Huyen finally found her voice, then. “And I will be the best wife for you. I will be your confidante, your partner, your helper and supporter in all things. I will bear for you as many children as you desire, and fill this house with the patter of tiny feet.” She cupped his cheek with one hand. “And I will love you, John, as you always should have been loved.”

He took her hand and kissed it gently. “You are already the best wife for me, Huyen. You’ve given me something to look forward to every day, something to make my life worth living. May…may I kiss you?”

Huyen hesitated for a moment, her heart racing. She had never been kissed before, not like this. But she trusted him, and she wanted to please him. Nodding slowly, she closed her eyes, bracing herself for the contact of his lips.

John’s kiss was gentle at first, his lips soft against hers. But as they kissed, he grew more passionate, his tongue sliding against hers in a dance that was both familiar and new. Huyen felt a shudder run through her body as she gave herself over to the sensation, her hands moving up to clasp the back of his neck. The kiss seemed to last forever—a sweet, intoxicating exchange of breath and desire.

By the time he broke the kiss, she was panting. Huyen’s heart was beating a mile a minute.

John smiled at her, his eyes warm. “That was incredible,” he said, breathless. “I’ve never kissed anyone like that before.” He cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs brushing across her cheekbones. “I’m sorry if I overwhelmed you.”

She shook her head, still trying to catch her breath. “No...it was perfect.” She leaned in, pressing her lips to his again, eager to feel that connection once more. This time, their kiss was even more passionate, their bodies pressing together as they explored each other in a way that felt so right.

After what seemed like an eternity, they finally broke apart, gasping for air. John smiled down at her, his eyes sparkling. “You are truly amazing,” he whispered, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

Huyen smiled back, feeling a rush of happiness wash over her. She knew that their life together would be filled with love and adventure, and she couldn’t wait to see what the future held for them. As they sat there, wrapped in each other’s arms, she felt a sense of peace and contentment that she had never known before.

“Do you want to go into my bedroom?” John asked in a soft but serious tone.

Huyen swallowed hard and gave the slightest nod. “P-please be gentle with me,” she whispered, her voice cracking. “I…I have never…”

He smiled tenderly and leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “I will be gentle, and I will make sure that you’re comfortable and enjoying every moment.” He took her hand and led her into the bedroom, where he lit a few scented candles, casting a warm, flickering glow across the room. The scent of lavender filled the air, making her feel even more relaxed.

John guided her over to the bed, their hands never leaving each other’s sides. He pulled her down onto the soft mattress, their bodies pressed together once more. He kissed her tenderly, his hands exploring the soft curves of her body, making her shiver with pleasure.

Huyen arched her back, moaning softly as he found the spot between her legs that made her ache for him. She wrapped her legs around his hips, urging him closer, wanting to feel him inside her. John broke the kiss, his breath hot against her ear. “Not yet,” he whispered. “This moment should be savored. Huyen, do you know what a blowjob is?”

She nodded shyly, her cheeks flushing. She had heard of it, but she’d never done it before. In fact, she’d never find anything remotely sexual before. She was a virgin in every sense of the word.

“Would you like to try it?”

Huyen nodded again, her heart racing. This was completely outside her realm of experience, but she trusted John and wanted so badly to please him. She leaned forward, fumbling at his belt as she tried to unbuckle it. Huyen then unzipped his fly and watched, dry-mouthed, as his pants fell to his ankles. His black boxers did little to conceal his arousal.

She reached out, tentatively touching the tip of his erection, feeling the heat and strength of it in her hand. John groaned, his hips bucking involuntarily. Encouraged, Huyen wrapped her lips around the head of his cock, tasting the saltiness of his skin. She closed her eyes, concentrating on the sensation as she began to bob her head up and down his shaft.

She heard him gasp, felt him thrust deeper into her mouth, and she knew she was doing something right. Her inexperience quickly gave way to a growing confidence as she sucked and licked and nibbled, exploring every inch of his hard length. She moaned around him, the sound vibrating against his skin, and she could feel the wetness building between her legs.

John’s hips began to move more urgently, his grip in her hair tightening. “Oh, god, Huyen,” he groaned, his voice strained. “That feels incredible.” He pressed his hips forward, pushing deeper into her mouth, and she could feel the tip of him brushing against the back of her throat. She took a deep breath, relaxing her throat to accommodate him, and he moaned in response, his hips jerking violently.

It was all too much. John came with a bestial grunt and his cock erupted like a fire hose inside Huyen’s mouth. She spluttered and coughed, unable to cope with the sheer quantity of it.

“Are you all right?” he asked worriedly.

Huyen nodded, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. Her eyes were wide with wonder and a little bit of embarrassment. She looked up at John, feeling a strange mix of emotions coursing through her. A dampness was growing between her thighs.

“That was... amazing,” she said softly, her voice still shaking a little.

John smiled. “It was. You are. I’ve never had anyone suck me off like that before.” He traced his fingers along her jawline, feeling the soft skin beneath them. “Now, it’s my turn to please you, Huyen. Lie back for me, okay? I want to undress you.”

She nodded, feeling a shiver of anticipation run down her spine. Slowly, the ao dai she wore fell away, leaving only her panties and bra before they were discarded too. No man had ever seen her naked like this before. Huyen’s silently vowed that no man but John ever would.

John ran his hands up her legs, cupping her thighs, then parting them, revealing her pale pink sex. He moved so that he was kneeling between her spread legs, his face close to her dripping wet folds. He breathed in her scent, taking in the sight of her beautiful body before him. He reached out, tracing a finger along her labia before dipping it into her wetness. Huyen gasped as pleasure rippled through her.

John, thus encouraged, lowered his head onto her pussy. His tongue swirled around her clit, teasing and pleasuring her. Huyen arched her back, moaning loudly as he found the perfect rhythm, his fingers delving deeper inside her, touching places she hadn’t even known existed.

As he continued to eat her out, John found himself growing even harder, something he hadn’t thought possible. He halted his ministrations and shifted his position slightly, lining up his cock with her entrance.

“I’m going to get you pregnant,” he whispered. “Is that what you want, Huyen?”

His words sent a shock through her, but also a thrill. She moaned, unable to form a coherent response. He chuckled, kissing her shoulder. “Say it, wife.”

She bit her lip, and the words caught in her throat. She wanted this. She wanted him and his baby. She wanted to be his forever. But she was scared too. She was scared of the unknown and of losing herself in this new life.

He sensed her hesitation and slowed his movements, their bodies still moving together. His fingers found her clit again, teasing it gently as he looked down at her. His eyes were intense, searching her face for some sign of what she truly felt.

“Yes.” The word tore from her mouth. “I want your baby. Please, please give me a baby!”

Her words seemed to break something inside him, and he growled with need. His fingers moved faster and harder as he felt her body begin to tremble beneath his touch. He kissed her shoulder again, then moved up to nip at her earlobe, his tongue flicking against the sensitive skin.

“That’s it, Huyen. Let go. Let me take care of you.” His voice was rough with desire, and she could feel the heat of his breath against her ear. Her body arched into his touch, her cries muffled against the railing as pleasure washed over her in a tidal wave.

He felt her body tense, felt the ripples of her orgasm course through her, and he knew she had reached her peak. With a growl, he thrust his hips forward, burying himself inside of her and tearing her hymen in one fell swoop.

Huyen stiffened, gasped, and cried out in pain. It hurt. She was surprised at how much it hurt. Tears rolled down her cheeks, but he kissed them away.

“Shhh, it’s okay. It’s okay,” he murmured, his voice deep and soothing. “I’m here with you. You’re doing great. Just hold on to me, ok? I’ve got you.”

“It hurts so bad,” Huyen whimpered.

John held her close, his arms banding around her. “I know it hurts, but I promise you it’ll feel really good soon. Just let me help you through it, okay? I’m here for you.” He kissed her neck, his lips moving softly as he trailed them up and down her skin. “Just relax and let me take care of you.”

Huyen nodded, gazing up at him. She would endure the pain, because it was for him. John moved slowly and carefully, and sure enough, her body began to adjust to him. The pain began fading to a dull ache, and then to a throbbing sensation that was almost pleasurable. He kissed her deeply, his tongue exploring her mouth as he began to move in and out of her in a steady rhythm.

She moaned, her voice shaky at first but growing stronger with each passing moment. Her nails dug into his shoulders as she arched her back, meeting his movements with her own.

“I’m going to get you pregnant,” he said again through clenched teeth.

She closed her eyes and imagined their child, wondering what it would be like to have a child with this man. A child that would be a mix of their two cultures and their two families. Through the haze of pleasure, she smiled up at him.

“Yes,” Huyen said, tears of ecstasy rolling down her cheeks. “Let me bear your children. Let me give you as many as I can.”

“What do you think they’ll be like?” John asked, never faltering in his steady pounding.

“Their eyes will be like green like emeralds, just like yours,” she whispered, her voice a mix of pleasure and arousal. “And their skin will be as soft as silk, like mine. They will be smart, just like you, but also kind and generous. They will make friends easily, and their laugh will be contagious.”

As she spoke, John’s thrusts grew harder, his body tightening as he felt himself close to climax. He was overwhelmed with a sense of awe and gratitude, knowing that he was creating a new life with this incredible woman. He looked at her, her long black hair falling over her shoulders, her features lit up with passion and love.

“Tell me its name,” he commanded, gently but firmly. “What is our baby’s name?”

Huyen closed her eyes, feeling the rhythm of their lovemaking as he thrust inside her. She savored the feeling of being so completely connected to him and to the precious little life they were creating together.

“Our baby,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the sound of their shared breath. “Our beautiful, perfect child. His name...his name is...” She paused, searching for the right words. “His name is Hieu!”

“More! Tell me more!”

Huyen arched her back, savoring the power of their connection and the way he seemed to crave the same intimacy and understanding she did. It was as if they were two halves of the same whole, and when they were together, they completed each other.

“Our baby will have your intelligence and your quick wit,” she panted.

“Will he be handsome?”

She felt him smile against her neck as he kissed her there.

“Of course, he will be handsome,” she whispered, her voice rough with emotion. “He will be the most handsome little boy in the world.”

“And what about his little sister? Tell me about her too! Will she be pretty?”

Huyen smiled, feeling a sudden surge of love for their future daughter. She imagined her, a tiny version of them both, running through the house, laughing, and playing with her big brother.

“She will be more than pretty. She will be beautiful, like a rare flower. Her skin will be as soft as a kitten’s fur, and her laugh will be contagious. She will have your intelligence and determination. She will be a force to be reckoned with, just like you. Her…her name will be Minh!”

“Tell me how much you want it.” He increased his pace. “Let me hear you say how much you want your belly to swell with my children.”

Huyen arched her back and shrieked.

“Oh, I want it so much, John!” she cried, her eyes rolling back in their sockets from the pleasure. “I want to feel it grow inside me, to feel its little hands and feet kick me from the outside. I want to hold it in my arms and feel its soft skin against mine. I want to see our children play together, laugh together, and grow up together. I want to be your partner, your lover, and your wife. I want to share this life with you, and I want us to share it with our beautiful babies. I want it all!”

Her words spurred him on, and he thrust harder and deeper, as if he could reach her very core.

It was all too much. Huyen shrieked, throwing her head back as her first ever orgasm ripped her apart. She felt it all the way to her toes. Her vision went white, and her body went taut, quivering like a bowstring. The veins in her neck bulged. Colored spots exploded before her eyes.

“JOHN!” Huyen screamed.

His name, her release, her surrender. He felt it, her body trembling, clutching him tighter as her orgasm took her. He could feel it, too. The tightening of his own muscles, the urgency, seized him. With one final thrust, he felt himself release, spilling his seed into her fertile womb in a series of pulsing gushes.

He held her close, their bodies pressing together as their hearts raced. Heat poured off them in waves, their sweat mingling as they clung together.

I love you,” she managed to choke out between sobs. “I love you, John.”

He kissed her, tasting the salt of her tears. “I love you, too, Huyen. Would you like to go again? Do you need to rest?”

She smiled up at him, her breath still ragged. “I think I can go again,” she said, her voice barely audible over the pounding of their hearts. “But this time...” her face reddened. “This time, I...I want to be in your lap.”

John laughed, a low, hungry sound. “A fine idea!” he said, rising to a sitting position. His cock stood up almost completely straight, ready for action.

Huyen climbed onto his lap and he groaned, kissing her neck as he moved closer, positioning himself at her entrance. His cum dropped out of her and onto his shaft.

Huyen murmured something in Vietnamese.

“What did you say?” he asked, nipping at her earlobe.

“I said...” She paused, catching her breath as he pushed into her slowly. “I want you to be by my side always.”

Their hips met in a rhythmic dance, his strong hands holding her firmly by the hips and guiding her movements. The air around them was heavy with their combined scents, their labored breaths, and the sound of their skin slapping together.

Huyen threw her head back, her eyes closed, lost in the wonderful things John was making her feel. She rode him like a horse at gallop, her hips bucking from sheer feminine instinct to take him deeper inside her with each thrust. John growled low in his throat, feeling the tightening of her body as she neared her peak. He leaned forward, taking one of her nipples into his mouth, sucking hard as he thrust deeper and harder.

“Can you imagine your breasts heavy with milk?” He growled. “The way you’ll glow as my child grows in you?”

His words sent shivers down her spine. Her hips moved faster, and her body trembled as she neared the brink. She bit her lip, feeling the familiar tightening in her stomach and the tingling in her core. Her nails dug into his shoulders as she arched her back, her breath coming in ragged gasps.

“Yes,” she gasped. “Yes! I can see it! Please get me pregnant! Please, please, please!”

Their lovemaking was fierce and unyielding, a primal dance of desire and need. Their skin glistened with sweat as they moved together, their bodies becoming one in the heat of the moment. John felt her walls tighten around him, her freshly-deflowered pussy clenching tight like a fist. He roared like a lion and erupted like a volcano, spewing a fresh, sticky load deep into her body with such force that his new wife felt the sticky ropes of his cum lashing against her cervix.

Huyen almost fainted.

The world spun around her, and she clung to John for dear life with every ounce of strength she had left. Her body felt like it was on fire, and her mind was reeling. She could feel his seed pouring, dripping out of her, slowly making its way down her thighs—a warm, sticky trail that seemed to connect them even more.

She collapsed against him, her head resting on one broad shoulder. Her black hair, damp with sweat, clung to her cheeks and forehead and stuck to her back.

“I cannot continue,” she said weakly. “Thank you, John, that was…it was…”

He chuckled, kissing the top of her head. “I know. It was quite something, wasn’t it?”

She nodded, finally finding the strength to lean back, looking up at him. Her eyes were glassy with emotion, and her lips were still swollen from their passionate kisses. “I’m yours,” she rasped. “My body, my mind, my heart, my soul. I give it all to you in this moment. Please take good care of me.”

John brushed a lock of hair away from her face, tenderly cupping her cheek. He gazed deep into her eyes, and she felt the weight of his love and devotion. He leaned down, kissing her softly, his lips lingering against hers for what seemed like an eternity. When he finally pulled away, she could feel the warmth of his breath on her skin.

“I will,” he promised, his voice low and husky. “I’ll take care of you, Huyen. You’re mine, and I’ll cherish you always.”

The next few weeks were some of the happiest of Huyen’s life. She and John were inseparable, and he showed her all around his city. They ate at fine restaurants, went to museums and art galleries, and toured the historic French Quarter. John even took her to see other places outside the city, too. Louisiana was a fascinating place, Huyen discovered, with many odd and interesting things to do and see. She also did her part to teach John Vietnamese and teach him her culture, which he embraced. John was particularly smitten with her Vietnamese cooking.

And the sex. It was constant and unbelievably good. She and John went at it like rabbits.

Then, one morning, while brushing her teeth, she suddenly vomited. Huyen knew at once that she was pregnant. John, hearing her sickness, poked his head into the bathroom worriedly. But when Huyen raised her head from the sink to look at him, she was all smiles.

“I’m pregnant,” she said. Joy unlike anything she’d ever known filled her heart.

John’s face lit up like a Christmas tree. He whooped and grabbed her, spinning her around the bathroom. “I knew it! I just knew it!” He kissed her, long and deeply. “I’m going to be a dad, Huyen! This is the best news I’ve ever heard in my entire life!”

The next few months were a whirlwind of joy and anticipation. They shopped for baby clothes, painted the nursery, and eagerly awaited the arrival of their little one. Huyen’s pregnancy progressed smoothly, and she glowed with health and vitality. John doted on her, making sure she was comfortable and well cared for. Her parents, when she told them of her pregnancy on a video call, were ecstatic. Even her father Hung was overjoyed, and despite Hung’s initial skepticism and distrust of John, Huyen’s husband impressed the older man greatly.

As the due date drew near, they made final preparations. They had a baby shower, hosted by Ly from the agency who came all the way to New Orleans to surprise Huyen. The room was filled with gifts, flowers, and balloons. Everyone marveled at how beautiful Huyen looked and how happy John was. It was clear that they were meant to be together.

On the day Huyen went into labor, they checked into the hospital. The delivery was long and arduous, but Huyen’s strength and determination saw her through it. The child she brought into the world was a healthy baby boy, the first of six children she and John would end up having together.

As they held their newborn son in their arms, John and Huyen felt a sense of awe and wonder that they had never experienced before. Their love for each other deepened even further as they looked into the tiny, perfect face of their child. They named him Hie, just as Huyen promised, and vowed to raise him and all their future children to value both sides of his heritage.

“I am so happy,” she said, her eyes shining. “I do not deserve such good fortune. John...you have made me feel like a princess from a fairy tale.”

The next few months were a whirlwind of joy and anticipation. They shopped for baby clothes, painted the nursery, and eagerly awaited the arrival of their little one. Huyen’s pregnancy progressed smoothly, and she glowed with health and vitality. John doted on her, making sure she was comfortable and well cared for. Her parents, when she told them of her pregnancy on a video call, were ecstatic. Even her father Hung was overjoyed, and despite Hung’s initial skepticism and distrust of John, Huyen’s husband impressed the older man greatly.

As the due date drew near, they made final preparations. They had a baby shower, hosted by Ly from the agency who came all the way to New Orleans to surprise Huyen. The room was filled with gifts, flowers, and balloons. Everyone marveled at how beautiful Huyen looked and how happy John was. It was clear that they were meant to be together.

On the day Huyen went into labor, they checked into the hospital. The delivery was long and arduous, but Huyen’s strength and determination saw her through it. The child she brought into the world was a healthy baby boy, the first of six children she and John would end up having together.

As they held their newborn son in their arms, John and Huyen felt a sense of awe and wonder that they had never experienced before. Their love for each other deepened even further as they looked into the tiny, perfect face of their child. They named him Hieu, just as Huyen promised, and vowed to raise him and all their future children to value both sides of his heritage.

“I am so happy,” she said, her eyes shining. “I do not deserve such good fortune. John...you have made me feel like a princess from a fairy tale.”

John smiled down at her, his eyes filled with love. He gently brushed a lock of hair away from her forehead and kissed her cheek, then the cheek of his infant son. “You are my princess, Huyen. And our little Hieu is our perfect prince. We will make a beautiful family together. And we will love him, all our children, and each other with all our hearts.”

And that is exactly what happened.