Well, here's my Valentine's Day story. I was going to post it yesterday, but couldn't because of the server issues. So, here's what I've got ready so far. Enjoy!!
Tara Williams stared at herself in the mirror, wondering how she could have possibly gotten herself into this catastrophe. At first, her hair hadn’t bothered her all that much. After all, once she got settled with a hair stylist, she could be quite daring. But, as the day wore on, she found her hair to be more and more atrocious. She was convinced that a full bottle of ketchup couldn’t be redder than her crimson locks. Four washes after dying it and it hasn’t faded at all! She’d never taken so many showers in one day before. Tara knew that she was killing her hair, but there was an upside: she’d never been so clean before in her entire life.
So, resigned to the fact that she’d appear at Myles’ high-society shindig looking like a walking stop sign, she plugged in the curling iron and reached for the hair dryer for the third time that day. As she vigorously shook the appliance, waving it around her head with a fierce determination in her eyes, she studied the rest of her appearance. Not half bad! She didn’t normally dress so festive, but she was letting her creativity take over this time. Tara felt good about her fun look, and with hair as wild as hers, she needed to feel confident about something. So, once again, she began her internal chant: You do not need a date to be complete. You’re an exceptional woman all on your own; you don’t need a man to make a phenomenal impression. Reminding herself of her disastrous history with the dating scene, and men in general, she began her self pep talk again, this time aloud and with a more confident tone. She added these words as she felt her anticipation grow: Tara Williams, you are going to that party alone with your head held high, and you are going to knock their socks off!
*****
Full Version: The Fuzziest Time Of The Year By Lizzym87
RomanceFanFiction.net > The Highlights - A Place To Start > Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > 2005 Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > Valentine Challenge - 2005
And some more...
“Wear it down, Sue,” Lucy persisted as Sue reached for a bobby pin.
“Luce, I like it up!” Sue countered as she twisted a curled lock of hair upwards and held it against her temple and slid the pin into place. Studying herself in the mirror, she tried to decide which piece of golden hair to reach for next.
“But it looks better down,” Lucy protested, deftly grabbing hold of the newly placed bobby pin and tugging on it. Sue shot a dirty look at her friend, who just smiled devilishly. “And I’m not the only one who thinks so.” She raised her eyebrows suggestively and Sue rolled her eyes, turning back to the mirror.
“I don’t care what anyone else thinks, including Jack,” Sue added pointedly. She nodded. “Yes, I know exactly who you are talking about, Ms. Cupid. But you can just put away your bow and arrows because none of your scheming will change my mind.” Lucy curled her lips inward and looked down guiltily. Sue whirled around and pointed a finger at her friend in an accusatory fashion.
“What did you do?” Sue demanded. Lucy smiled sheepishly as Sue backed her into the hall way, boring into her with a piercing glare.
“I sort of found you a date for tonight,” she admitted in drawn out words.
“Luce, you didn’t!” Sue exclaimed. Lucy nodded without making a sound. “Please don’t tell me it is who I think it is.” Once again, Lucy nodded, but this time with an obvious twinkle in her eye and a mischievous smile.
“You set me up with Jack?!” Sue practically screeched.
“You’ll thank me for this eventually, Sue,” Lucy insisted.
“How did you? When did you? Lucy, whatever possessed you to do…. well, this?”
“I couldn’t let you go to Myles’ parents’ party without a date!” Sue began to protest, but Lucy stopped her by covering her best friend’s mouth with her hand. “I’ve seen the way Myles’ family lives; I dated the man! Sue, if you show up at that party alone tonight, they’ll eat you alive.” Lucy dropped her hand, knowing that if she didn’t then, she could end up with some pretty mangled fingers. When her friend was angry, she could be ferocious.
“I don’t care about what people think of me. I’m just going because it’d be rude to refuse the invitation.”
“You’d regret even doing that if you came to Myles’ place tonight dateless. I guarantee you that.” Sue deliberately paused before speaking, allowing herself a moment to think.
“Luce, how did you even get Jack to say yes? He never would have agreed to this on his own, much less asked me to be his date!”
“Well, I sort of called him this morning while you were in the kitchen cooking, and I convinced him to take you. But, you really should give yourself some more credit. If Jack had the guts-”
“You convinced him, just like that?” Lucy shrugged. “What did you say?” Sue demanded, wide eyed at the possible things her roommate could have told her close friend, and training agent, of all people… who just so happened to make her heart flutter in a way no other man could.
“Look, we don’t have enough time for that. We’ve got you ready for-”
“We have 2 ½ hours until the party,” Sue interrupted seriously, cutting Lucy’s excuses short.
“Maybe until the party, but not until dinner,” Lucy revealed with glee. Sue stared, stupefied, at her friend, and swallowed the lump growing in her throat.
“Dinner?”
“Dinner. I made reservations for you and Jack at Antonio’s. You have half an hour,” Lucy explained quickly, careful to keep her speech at a manageable level for Sue.
“Did you say Antonio’s? In half an hour?” Lucy grinned shamelessly. “Lucy, are you insane?!”
“Nope, just the world’s best matchmaker. Now, hurry up and put your make-up on before Jack gets here,” Lucy ordered as she gently, but firmly, pushed Sue back into the bathroom. Before she could follow her friend all the way into the little room, Sue shut the door… hard, and locked it. She leaned against the cool wood, feeling like she was freezing and melting all at once, scared but excited. She didn’t know whether she ought to thank Lucy or wring her neck. All she could do was reach for her make up bag and hope her night wouldn’t turn out as awful as the furious beating of her heart was, feeling a horrible sense of uncertainty set in.
*****
“Wear it down, Sue,” Lucy persisted as Sue reached for a bobby pin.
“Luce, I like it up!” Sue countered as she twisted a curled lock of hair upwards and held it against her temple and slid the pin into place. Studying herself in the mirror, she tried to decide which piece of golden hair to reach for next.
“But it looks better down,” Lucy protested, deftly grabbing hold of the newly placed bobby pin and tugging on it. Sue shot a dirty look at her friend, who just smiled devilishly. “And I’m not the only one who thinks so.” She raised her eyebrows suggestively and Sue rolled her eyes, turning back to the mirror.
“I don’t care what anyone else thinks, including Jack,” Sue added pointedly. She nodded. “Yes, I know exactly who you are talking about, Ms. Cupid. But you can just put away your bow and arrows because none of your scheming will change my mind.” Lucy curled her lips inward and looked down guiltily. Sue whirled around and pointed a finger at her friend in an accusatory fashion.
“What did you do?” Sue demanded. Lucy smiled sheepishly as Sue backed her into the hall way, boring into her with a piercing glare.
“I sort of found you a date for tonight,” she admitted in drawn out words.
“Luce, you didn’t!” Sue exclaimed. Lucy nodded without making a sound. “Please don’t tell me it is who I think it is.” Once again, Lucy nodded, but this time with an obvious twinkle in her eye and a mischievous smile.
“You set me up with Jack?!” Sue practically screeched.
“You’ll thank me for this eventually, Sue,” Lucy insisted.
“How did you? When did you? Lucy, whatever possessed you to do…. well, this?”
“I couldn’t let you go to Myles’ parents’ party without a date!” Sue began to protest, but Lucy stopped her by covering her best friend’s mouth with her hand. “I’ve seen the way Myles’ family lives; I dated the man! Sue, if you show up at that party alone tonight, they’ll eat you alive.” Lucy dropped her hand, knowing that if she didn’t then, she could end up with some pretty mangled fingers. When her friend was angry, she could be ferocious.
“I don’t care about what people think of me. I’m just going because it’d be rude to refuse the invitation.”
“You’d regret even doing that if you came to Myles’ place tonight dateless. I guarantee you that.” Sue deliberately paused before speaking, allowing herself a moment to think.
“Luce, how did you even get Jack to say yes? He never would have agreed to this on his own, much less asked me to be his date!”
“Well, I sort of called him this morning while you were in the kitchen cooking, and I convinced him to take you. But, you really should give yourself some more credit. If Jack had the guts-”
“You convinced him, just like that?” Lucy shrugged. “What did you say?” Sue demanded, wide eyed at the possible things her roommate could have told her close friend, and training agent, of all people… who just so happened to make her heart flutter in a way no other man could.
“Look, we don’t have enough time for that. We’ve got you ready for-”
“We have 2 ½ hours until the party,” Sue interrupted seriously, cutting Lucy’s excuses short.
“Maybe until the party, but not until dinner,” Lucy revealed with glee. Sue stared, stupefied, at her friend, and swallowed the lump growing in her throat.
“Dinner?”
“Dinner. I made reservations for you and Jack at Antonio’s. You have half an hour,” Lucy explained quickly, careful to keep her speech at a manageable level for Sue.
“Did you say Antonio’s? In half an hour?” Lucy grinned shamelessly. “Lucy, are you insane?!”
“Nope, just the world’s best matchmaker. Now, hurry up and put your make-up on before Jack gets here,” Lucy ordered as she gently, but firmly, pushed Sue back into the bathroom. Before she could follow her friend all the way into the little room, Sue shut the door… hard, and locked it. She leaned against the cool wood, feeling like she was freezing and melting all at once, scared but excited. She didn’t know whether she ought to thank Lucy or wring her neck. All she could do was reach for her make up bag and hope her night wouldn’t turn out as awful as the furious beating of her heart was, feeling a horrible sense of uncertainty set in.
*****
More...
Special Agent Jackson Samuel Hudson had never been this nervous about a woman… ever. In fact, he felt shakier at that moment than he did with most raids, if not all of them. Tonight, he was taking Sue Thomas out, as his date. The most unsettling aspect of it all was that he had not even spoken to her about it; for all he knew she may not even be aware of their plans In fact, he was almost certain of it; she would never put Lucy up to it. No, this was the mischievous roommate’s doing.
If this was the case, and Sue had yet to find out about their date, there would be still be time to back out. He didn’t have to get out of the car and go into the apartment building just outside the vehicle he sat in. He couldn’t even figure out why he had agreed to Lucy’s outrageous plan. Perhaps it was the mention of Antonio’s. Everyone knew that reservations there cost at least an arm and a leg, and were non-refundable. He couldn’t very well let Lucy pay for that expense for no reason. However, it was more than likely that he conceded simply because he wanted to. He knew Sue could hold her own at the Lelands’ party, but he couldn’t bear to think of her being alone while celebrating a holiday that recognized and cherished love, and companionship. It was very well possible that the little voice inside him knew that he, himself, did not want to celebrate love and tenderness without Sue, and it told him so, convincing him to say yes.
Taking a deep breath, he unhooked his seat belt, grabbed a beautiful bouquet of roses he had bought for the occasion off the passenger seat, opened his car door, and decidedly approached the building. He reached Sue and Lucy’s apartment much too quickly for his taste, as he was still feeling very uncertain about this whole thing. He adjusted his red bow tie and woodenly, reached out and knocked on the door. It was only a matter of seconds before he heard footsteps approaching. The door opened and he held his breath. It was Lucy. She was holding Levi by his collar and was happily grinning at him.
“Hey, Jack! You look mighty fine tonight!” she complimented enthusiastically. “The tux suits you.”
“Well, you can’t go to Antonio’s in jeans and a t-shirt,” Jack replied nervously. He looked at her while making a face. “Sue does know about all this, right? Because if not, I can just leave-”
“Of course she knows! She’s right inside, looking absolutely stunning.” She cringed. “I kind of waited until ten minutes ago to tell her about you being her date, so she’s understandably as anxious as ever.” She smiled slyly. “But, I’m sure you’ll find some ingenious was to ease her nerves.” Jack just gawked at her.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” he inquired as Lucy opened the door wider and ushered him inside. “I don’t know what you’re getting at, but-”
He stopped talking the moment he saw her. All rational thought had fled from his mind.
“Hi,” she said simply, waving slightly. He just smiled dumbly and lifted his right hand in response, forgetting to wave. He’d seen her dressed up and looking radiant before, but somehow this was different. She was dressed up for him. Tonight, she was his, and just knowing that made it twice as intimidating. She was so incredibly beautiful!
Her hair had been styled so it was halfway up, tumbling down her shoulders, back, and chest in soft, loose curls. She had opted for lavender eye shadow and a becoming shade of mauve lipstick, brightened by just a hint of gloss. Her sleeveless dress was of deep red satin, cinched slightly where her modest v-neck came to a point. The garment came to rest just at her knees, and strappy red heels completed the look.
“You look amazing,” Jack confessed once he finally found his voice. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to speak. He proceeded to sign that she was beautiful, and Sue blushed.
“You don’t look so bad yourself, Agent Hudson,” she replied shyly with a small smile. He quickly signed thank you, then lifted up the dozen red roses in his left hand.
“I got these for you.”
“Jack, they’re beautiful!” she exclaimed as she skipped forward to take them. “You really shouldn’t have, thought.” He happily relinquished them to her.
“I wanted to,” Jack admitted with a shrug. Sue smiled warmly.
“Well, it was very sweet of you. I’ll just go put these in water, then we can go.” Lucy, having long since been forgotten, stepped forward and took the bouquet from her friend.
“I’ll do it, Sue,” Lucy offered eagerly. “You two had better get going before you miss your reservations. After all, I did pay for their best table for two.”
“Lucy, you didn’t,” Jack protested dryly.
“I did,” she countered plainly. “Now, go!”
“Well, shall we follow the lady’s orders?” Jack implored. Sue nodded.
“Just let me get my coat first. Quickly, Sue opened the hall closet and pulled our a stylish, warm black coat. She let Jack help her into it before taking his outstretched arm and grabbing her purse with her free hand.
“See you at the party, Luce,” Jack called over his shoulder, beginning to feel a bit more comfortable. Sue appeared happy to see him, albeit a bit jittery. But, her nervous state could not even come close to his own.
“Sure thing,” Lucy replied. And soon, the pair was gone.
*****
Special Agent Jackson Samuel Hudson had never been this nervous about a woman… ever. In fact, he felt shakier at that moment than he did with most raids, if not all of them. Tonight, he was taking Sue Thomas out, as his date. The most unsettling aspect of it all was that he had not even spoken to her about it; for all he knew she may not even be aware of their plans In fact, he was almost certain of it; she would never put Lucy up to it. No, this was the mischievous roommate’s doing.
If this was the case, and Sue had yet to find out about their date, there would be still be time to back out. He didn’t have to get out of the car and go into the apartment building just outside the vehicle he sat in. He couldn’t even figure out why he had agreed to Lucy’s outrageous plan. Perhaps it was the mention of Antonio’s. Everyone knew that reservations there cost at least an arm and a leg, and were non-refundable. He couldn’t very well let Lucy pay for that expense for no reason. However, it was more than likely that he conceded simply because he wanted to. He knew Sue could hold her own at the Lelands’ party, but he couldn’t bear to think of her being alone while celebrating a holiday that recognized and cherished love, and companionship. It was very well possible that the little voice inside him knew that he, himself, did not want to celebrate love and tenderness without Sue, and it told him so, convincing him to say yes.
Taking a deep breath, he unhooked his seat belt, grabbed a beautiful bouquet of roses he had bought for the occasion off the passenger seat, opened his car door, and decidedly approached the building. He reached Sue and Lucy’s apartment much too quickly for his taste, as he was still feeling very uncertain about this whole thing. He adjusted his red bow tie and woodenly, reached out and knocked on the door. It was only a matter of seconds before he heard footsteps approaching. The door opened and he held his breath. It was Lucy. She was holding Levi by his collar and was happily grinning at him.
“Hey, Jack! You look mighty fine tonight!” she complimented enthusiastically. “The tux suits you.”
“Well, you can’t go to Antonio’s in jeans and a t-shirt,” Jack replied nervously. He looked at her while making a face. “Sue does know about all this, right? Because if not, I can just leave-”
“Of course she knows! She’s right inside, looking absolutely stunning.” She cringed. “I kind of waited until ten minutes ago to tell her about you being her date, so she’s understandably as anxious as ever.” She smiled slyly. “But, I’m sure you’ll find some ingenious was to ease her nerves.” Jack just gawked at her.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” he inquired as Lucy opened the door wider and ushered him inside. “I don’t know what you’re getting at, but-”
He stopped talking the moment he saw her. All rational thought had fled from his mind.
“Hi,” she said simply, waving slightly. He just smiled dumbly and lifted his right hand in response, forgetting to wave. He’d seen her dressed up and looking radiant before, but somehow this was different. She was dressed up for him. Tonight, she was his, and just knowing that made it twice as intimidating. She was so incredibly beautiful!
Her hair had been styled so it was halfway up, tumbling down her shoulders, back, and chest in soft, loose curls. She had opted for lavender eye shadow and a becoming shade of mauve lipstick, brightened by just a hint of gloss. Her sleeveless dress was of deep red satin, cinched slightly where her modest v-neck came to a point. The garment came to rest just at her knees, and strappy red heels completed the look.
“You look amazing,” Jack confessed once he finally found his voice. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to speak. He proceeded to sign that she was beautiful, and Sue blushed.
“You don’t look so bad yourself, Agent Hudson,” she replied shyly with a small smile. He quickly signed thank you, then lifted up the dozen red roses in his left hand.
“I got these for you.”
“Jack, they’re beautiful!” she exclaimed as she skipped forward to take them. “You really shouldn’t have, thought.” He happily relinquished them to her.
“I wanted to,” Jack admitted with a shrug. Sue smiled warmly.
“Well, it was very sweet of you. I’ll just go put these in water, then we can go.” Lucy, having long since been forgotten, stepped forward and took the bouquet from her friend.
“I’ll do it, Sue,” Lucy offered eagerly. “You two had better get going before you miss your reservations. After all, I did pay for their best table for two.”
“Lucy, you didn’t,” Jack protested dryly.
“I did,” she countered plainly. “Now, go!”
“Well, shall we follow the lady’s orders?” Jack implored. Sue nodded.
“Just let me get my coat first. Quickly, Sue opened the hall closet and pulled our a stylish, warm black coat. She let Jack help her into it before taking his outstretched arm and grabbing her purse with her free hand.
“See you at the party, Luce,” Jack called over his shoulder, beginning to feel a bit more comfortable. Sue appeared happy to see him, albeit a bit jittery. But, her nervous state could not even come close to his own.
“Sure thing,” Lucy replied. And soon, the pair was gone.
*****
And the last bit, for now...
“Myles, I don’t believe this! Your father just informed me that you don’t have a date for your own party. This is absolutely outrageous!” Elizabeth Leland complained to her son, who merely rolled his eyes at her.
“Mother, this is your party, not mine, for which you have completely taken over my home. I had no part in this, whatsoever,” Myles explained with a forced calm.
“This is a Leland family endeavor, so I expect you to live up to our name tonight. To appear at this party unattended is preposterous!”
“As a matter of fact, it seems that Philip had been misinformed. I do, indeed, have a date,” Myles answered haughtily.
“Myles, I am so very relieved to hear that. I just knew you would see things my way. Now, how many times do I have to tell you that if you are so dead set on calling your father by his first name, you are only to call him Myles.”
“I refuse to share my name with the man. Might I remind you that I am your adult son, and I do not need to follow your orders. You have dictated my life long enough, Elizabeth, and I will not have any more of it. Therefore, I will continue to refer to my father by his middle name. End of discussion.” He headed towards his elaborately decorated staircase.
“Alright then, Myles. If that’s the way you want it.” Her son continued to walk away. “You might as well tell me about this date of yours. How come I didn’t hear about her until now?” Myles pivoted around to face his mother.
“Because, I just got off the phone with her five minutes ago.”
“You don’t mean to tell me that you just invited her five minutes ago, on a whim?”
“As my date, yes. She is very flexible, mother, and is willing to accommodate others’ needs graciously. She doesn’t waste her life planning every single little detail.”
“But Myles, that’s-”
“You’ll meet her tonight, Elizabeth,” Myles called out after he turned around once again. Quickly, he was ascending the stairs and leaving his mother behind.
*****
“Myles, I don’t believe this! Your father just informed me that you don’t have a date for your own party. This is absolutely outrageous!” Elizabeth Leland complained to her son, who merely rolled his eyes at her.
“Mother, this is your party, not mine, for which you have completely taken over my home. I had no part in this, whatsoever,” Myles explained with a forced calm.
“This is a Leland family endeavor, so I expect you to live up to our name tonight. To appear at this party unattended is preposterous!”
“As a matter of fact, it seems that Philip had been misinformed. I do, indeed, have a date,” Myles answered haughtily.
“Myles, I am so very relieved to hear that. I just knew you would see things my way. Now, how many times do I have to tell you that if you are so dead set on calling your father by his first name, you are only to call him Myles.”
“I refuse to share my name with the man. Might I remind you that I am your adult son, and I do not need to follow your orders. You have dictated my life long enough, Elizabeth, and I will not have any more of it. Therefore, I will continue to refer to my father by his middle name. End of discussion.” He headed towards his elaborately decorated staircase.
“Alright then, Myles. If that’s the way you want it.” Her son continued to walk away. “You might as well tell me about this date of yours. How come I didn’t hear about her until now?” Myles pivoted around to face his mother.
“Because, I just got off the phone with her five minutes ago.”
“You don’t mean to tell me that you just invited her five minutes ago, on a whim?”
“As my date, yes. She is very flexible, mother, and is willing to accommodate others’ needs graciously. She doesn’t waste her life planning every single little detail.”
“But Myles, that’s-”
“You’ll meet her tonight, Elizabeth,” Myles called out after he turned around once again. Quickly, he was ascending the stairs and leaving his mother behind.
*****
Well, here's the next scene. We'll get to that date eventually, but you'll have to be patient. 
Enjoy! Feedback is always appreciated.
Bobby Manning couldn’t believe the lengths he was willing to go for this woman, yet again. Darcy DeAngelo drove him completely crazy, but there wasn’t a thing he wouldn’t try in order to regain her trust. Adjusting his costume and then his old fashioned spectacles, he held his breath, then pushed the doorbell.
Bobby knew he had it bad when he realized that he would have recognized those footsteps anywhere. They were faint, but unmistakable. He knew she was looking at him through the peephole when the cadence of her steps ceased.
“What the heck?!” he heard her exclaim through the closed door. It swung open and Darcy stared him down with a frown. “Bobby Manning, if that’s you I swear I’m going to…” she threatened as she pulled down his long white beard.
“Do what, darlin’?” he continued for her once she had pulled the false facial hair down enough to see his face. She pulled it down even lower, in disbelief, and suddenly released her grip, snapping the elastic against his chin.
“Ah!” he cried as she retreated and began to shut the door. Moving quickly, he slammed his hand against the wood paneling, keeping the door open. “Please, Darce, listen to me. I just want you to hear me out. Afterwards, you can throw me out of you like. But, please, just give me a chance.” She stared at him.
“Why should I, Robert?” she demanded.
“Because I’m human I made a mistake, and I desperately want to prove to you how sorry I am. Do you really think I would have gone out and rented this costume, two months after Christmas, and dressed up as Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick if this didn’t matter to me? Darcy, I walked here! Do you have any idea how awkward it was to walk down the street like this, right out in public? Hon, I did all this to remind you of that night two Decembers ago, when you decided to give me a shot for the first time. I know I’ve messed up since then, more than once, but if I didn’t care I never would have come back.”
She looked at him for a moment, then silently gestured for him to come inside, opening the door wider. He grinned behind the thick beard he wore and rushed up to her, not hesitating to wrap her in his arms.
“Don’t you dare try to kiss me, Bobby Manning,” she protested firmly. “You still have yet to redeem yourself.”
He tapped Darcy playfully on the nose. “Yet.” He released her and turned away, heading further into the house with a hopeful grin on his face. As she shut the door, she couldn’t help but smile, having already found it in her heart to forgive him. Still, she imagined it’d be quite interesting to hear him try to explain himself, secretly knowing that she would be accompanying him to Myles’ party that night. When she heard his many messages on her answering machine, she knew that by the time the evening of February 12th rolled around, her anger would have faded. So, she went out and bought a gorgeous red dress, fully intending to burn such an incredible picture of herself into Bobby’s memory that he’d never want to miss a meal with her again, with or without her parents. But, before he could know that, she was going to make him squirm a little.
Heading into the living room to join the Aussie, she put on a straight face and prepared herself for her own little interrogation. Bobby Manning was not going to be easily appeased.
*****
Enjoy! Feedback is always appreciated.Bobby Manning couldn’t believe the lengths he was willing to go for this woman, yet again. Darcy DeAngelo drove him completely crazy, but there wasn’t a thing he wouldn’t try in order to regain her trust. Adjusting his costume and then his old fashioned spectacles, he held his breath, then pushed the doorbell.
Bobby knew he had it bad when he realized that he would have recognized those footsteps anywhere. They were faint, but unmistakable. He knew she was looking at him through the peephole when the cadence of her steps ceased.
“What the heck?!” he heard her exclaim through the closed door. It swung open and Darcy stared him down with a frown. “Bobby Manning, if that’s you I swear I’m going to…” she threatened as she pulled down his long white beard.
“Do what, darlin’?” he continued for her once she had pulled the false facial hair down enough to see his face. She pulled it down even lower, in disbelief, and suddenly released her grip, snapping the elastic against his chin.
“Ah!” he cried as she retreated and began to shut the door. Moving quickly, he slammed his hand against the wood paneling, keeping the door open. “Please, Darce, listen to me. I just want you to hear me out. Afterwards, you can throw me out of you like. But, please, just give me a chance.” She stared at him.
“Why should I, Robert?” she demanded.
“Because I’m human I made a mistake, and I desperately want to prove to you how sorry I am. Do you really think I would have gone out and rented this costume, two months after Christmas, and dressed up as Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick if this didn’t matter to me? Darcy, I walked here! Do you have any idea how awkward it was to walk down the street like this, right out in public? Hon, I did all this to remind you of that night two Decembers ago, when you decided to give me a shot for the first time. I know I’ve messed up since then, more than once, but if I didn’t care I never would have come back.”
She looked at him for a moment, then silently gestured for him to come inside, opening the door wider. He grinned behind the thick beard he wore and rushed up to her, not hesitating to wrap her in his arms.
“Don’t you dare try to kiss me, Bobby Manning,” she protested firmly. “You still have yet to redeem yourself.”
He tapped Darcy playfully on the nose. “Yet.” He released her and turned away, heading further into the house with a hopeful grin on his face. As she shut the door, she couldn’t help but smile, having already found it in her heart to forgive him. Still, she imagined it’d be quite interesting to hear him try to explain himself, secretly knowing that she would be accompanying him to Myles’ party that night. When she heard his many messages on her answering machine, she knew that by the time the evening of February 12th rolled around, her anger would have faded. So, she went out and bought a gorgeous red dress, fully intending to burn such an incredible picture of herself into Bobby’s memory that he’d never want to miss a meal with her again, with or without her parents. But, before he could know that, she was going to make him squirm a little.
Heading into the living room to join the Aussie, she put on a straight face and prepared herself for her own little interrogation. Bobby Manning was not going to be easily appeased.
*****
Well, I hope this goes over well. I still don't feel satisfied with it, but I might as well post it. After all, you've all been very patient and have been waiting for this scene. So, here we go!
Jack studied Sue through the crack in between the pages of his menu; she appeared to be lost in thought. Setting the menu down after deciding on a dish, he reached out and gently touched her hand. She turned to face him and he could feel himself smile.
“You ok?” he signed, wondering what was on her mind.
She returned his smile with a gentle one of her own. “I was just thinking,” Sue replied.
“Care to share?” She shrugged, then sat up straighter.
“Will you answer something for me-- honestly?” she asked. A lump rose in his throat as he wondered what her question was. He agreed hesitantly. She took a deep breath and expelled it quickly. “Jack, would you have even considered asking me to be your date for something like this, without Lucy’s…. assistance?” He raised his eyebrows.
“Well, I-”
“After all, it’s really just keeping up appearances,” she added quickly.
“At a Valentine’s Day party, in particular?” he countered.
“Does it really matter what type of party it is?” she returned curiously.
“Well,” he began with a shrug, “a Valentine’s Day party definitely has a different atmosphere than, say, an office party after a big care.”
“I guess you have a point. In that respect, I suppose I meant a Valentine’s Day party… in particular.” Jack couldn’t miss her blush as she glanced down at her closed menu, then looked back up at him uncomfortably. He cleared his throat before answering.
“In all honesty, yes. In fact, the thought did cross my mind to ask you to come with me tonight, before Lucy stepped in.” There was an awkward silence for a short while before either of them said anything.
“Why didn’t you?” Sue implored shyly, not looking at him until she was finished talking. Even then, she avoided his eyes by focusing on his lips, not knowing how soon he would answer.
“Would you have said yes?” he questioned, turning the tables to a certain degree.
“I think so,” she answered timidly. Jack watched as she bowed her head and sniffled slightly. He gently tapped Sue’s chin and she looked up at him. Jack was alarmed at seeing tears glistening in her eyes. His heart clenched with worry.
“Sue, what is it?” he pleaded as he cupped her cheek in his hand. She closed her eyes for a lingering moment, then blinked furiously, trying to keep from crying.
“Jack,” she began, her voice cracking. “I don’t know how I’m supposed to feel about all of this.” Her words were just a whisper now. She forced herself to look at him, into his deep, caring eyes, then to his lips.
“You, too?” he asked gently before breaking out into a relieved smile. After a moment, she too smiled and chuckled a bit, trying to dispel some of her nervous energy. He took her hands and gently rubbed them in soothing, circular patterns. “Let’s just take this one step at a time, okay? I think this caught us both off guard, but it may be what we’ve both been wanting. I know that I can’t speak for you, but I think this definitely could be a step in the right direction.”
“I think so too,” she added softly. He released one of her hands so he could smooth a piece of hair that had escaped from the rest.
“Then let’s just take this as it comes and enjoy ourselves tonight-- sound good?” He could see a new sparkle in her eyes as she smiled at him. He lifted her hands to his lips and pressed a light kiss to the back of each. She blushed, but did not pull away. Jack took this as the encouragement he was so desperately looking for and cupped her cheek in his hand once again. He raised his eyebrows, silently waiting for permission, and she nodded, ever so slightly. Gently, he drew her nearer and leaned in until he finally met her halfway. Both felt a wonderful relief wash over them, and both were pleasantly surprised to find the other so receptive.
Tenderly, they brushed and skimmed, lightly touched, and found a new peace through this moment in time. He was the first to hesitantly ask for more, shifting in his seat and pressing his lips just a bit more insistently against her softened mouth. She returned his advance with a delicate one of her own, letting him take the lead. He did so beautifully. She’d never felt so cherished, so special and cared for, all in a simple kiss. There was passion and fervor while it was soft and slight. They were not sharing this moment to experiment physically; it was a simple connection that they yearned for, one achieved by an innocent, mild kiss.
Both remembered their undercover stint at Callahan and Merced, and while their kisses then had been more heated, now it was about sharing, giving and taking, and discovering. Both moments were unforgettable, but this one was infinitely more so. Not only were they stopping time and experiencing pure and unadulterated love, but they were taking an acknowledged step forward, as well.
Slowly, reluctantly, they pulled away and spent a moment simply looking at each other. Delighted smiles played on their lips. Both realized how much they were indebted to Lucy Dotson, and someday, they would tell her just how much. But for now, this night was about them and about treasuring the love that they were just beginning to walk in. Neither was ready to admit just how deeply they felt; they were content to simply enjoy the other’s company, anticipating the night ahead.
*****
Jack studied Sue through the crack in between the pages of his menu; she appeared to be lost in thought. Setting the menu down after deciding on a dish, he reached out and gently touched her hand. She turned to face him and he could feel himself smile.
“You ok?” he signed, wondering what was on her mind.
She returned his smile with a gentle one of her own. “I was just thinking,” Sue replied.
“Care to share?” She shrugged, then sat up straighter.
“Will you answer something for me-- honestly?” she asked. A lump rose in his throat as he wondered what her question was. He agreed hesitantly. She took a deep breath and expelled it quickly. “Jack, would you have even considered asking me to be your date for something like this, without Lucy’s…. assistance?” He raised his eyebrows.
“Well, I-”
“After all, it’s really just keeping up appearances,” she added quickly.
“At a Valentine’s Day party, in particular?” he countered.
“Does it really matter what type of party it is?” she returned curiously.
“Well,” he began with a shrug, “a Valentine’s Day party definitely has a different atmosphere than, say, an office party after a big care.”
“I guess you have a point. In that respect, I suppose I meant a Valentine’s Day party… in particular.” Jack couldn’t miss her blush as she glanced down at her closed menu, then looked back up at him uncomfortably. He cleared his throat before answering.
“In all honesty, yes. In fact, the thought did cross my mind to ask you to come with me tonight, before Lucy stepped in.” There was an awkward silence for a short while before either of them said anything.
“Why didn’t you?” Sue implored shyly, not looking at him until she was finished talking. Even then, she avoided his eyes by focusing on his lips, not knowing how soon he would answer.
“Would you have said yes?” he questioned, turning the tables to a certain degree.
“I think so,” she answered timidly. Jack watched as she bowed her head and sniffled slightly. He gently tapped Sue’s chin and she looked up at him. Jack was alarmed at seeing tears glistening in her eyes. His heart clenched with worry.
“Sue, what is it?” he pleaded as he cupped her cheek in his hand. She closed her eyes for a lingering moment, then blinked furiously, trying to keep from crying.
“Jack,” she began, her voice cracking. “I don’t know how I’m supposed to feel about all of this.” Her words were just a whisper now. She forced herself to look at him, into his deep, caring eyes, then to his lips.
“You, too?” he asked gently before breaking out into a relieved smile. After a moment, she too smiled and chuckled a bit, trying to dispel some of her nervous energy. He took her hands and gently rubbed them in soothing, circular patterns. “Let’s just take this one step at a time, okay? I think this caught us both off guard, but it may be what we’ve both been wanting. I know that I can’t speak for you, but I think this definitely could be a step in the right direction.”
“I think so too,” she added softly. He released one of her hands so he could smooth a piece of hair that had escaped from the rest.
“Then let’s just take this as it comes and enjoy ourselves tonight-- sound good?” He could see a new sparkle in her eyes as she smiled at him. He lifted her hands to his lips and pressed a light kiss to the back of each. She blushed, but did not pull away. Jack took this as the encouragement he was so desperately looking for and cupped her cheek in his hand once again. He raised his eyebrows, silently waiting for permission, and she nodded, ever so slightly. Gently, he drew her nearer and leaned in until he finally met her halfway. Both felt a wonderful relief wash over them, and both were pleasantly surprised to find the other so receptive.
Tenderly, they brushed and skimmed, lightly touched, and found a new peace through this moment in time. He was the first to hesitantly ask for more, shifting in his seat and pressing his lips just a bit more insistently against her softened mouth. She returned his advance with a delicate one of her own, letting him take the lead. He did so beautifully. She’d never felt so cherished, so special and cared for, all in a simple kiss. There was passion and fervor while it was soft and slight. They were not sharing this moment to experiment physically; it was a simple connection that they yearned for, one achieved by an innocent, mild kiss.
Both remembered their undercover stint at Callahan and Merced, and while their kisses then had been more heated, now it was about sharing, giving and taking, and discovering. Both moments were unforgettable, but this one was infinitely more so. Not only were they stopping time and experiencing pure and unadulterated love, but they were taking an acknowledged step forward, as well.
Slowly, reluctantly, they pulled away and spent a moment simply looking at each other. Delighted smiles played on their lips. Both realized how much they were indebted to Lucy Dotson, and someday, they would tell her just how much. But for now, this night was about them and about treasuring the love that they were just beginning to walk in. Neither was ready to admit just how deeply they felt; they were content to simply enjoy the other’s company, anticipating the night ahead.
*****
Well, things are going to get a bit sticky, but hang in there! Thanks for your support of this little story!
Myles looked past Senator Minton as he shook the politician’s hand, eyeing the crowded room wearily. By all outward indications, the event was a smash. Some of the biggest names in Congress were in attendance, and his parents couldn’t have been more thrilled. However, the excitement was lost on him. Not a one of his coworkers had arrived yet, and he was desperate for an excuse to leave his mother’s side. He breathed a prayer of thanks when he saw Darcy DeAngelo enter the room, dressed in a glittering red gown that hugged her figure all the way down to the floor. His eyes widened as a very realistic Santa Claus followed closely behind her.
“Excuse me, mother,” Myles said briefly. He quickly crossed the room to where the two new arrivals were standing. “Why Ms. DeAngelo, what a pleasant surprise! I didn’t know if you were going to make it this evening.”
“Well, Ol’ Saint Nick, here, was very persistent,” she revealed as Bobby wrapped his arms around her from behind and rested his chin on her shoulder. “But, I’m afraid Santa got his holidays mixed up.”
“Nah, I just decided to go for a dash of red in the attire,” Bobby protested, pressing a fuzzy kiss to Darcy’s cheek.
“At least you didn’t show up as Cupid,” Myles quipped dryly.
“Interesting thought,” Bobby considered cheekily, before someone by the front door caught his eye. “It looks like I’m not the only one who’s creatively dressed. It seems that Tara decided to come as a tomato.”
“Huh?” Myles questioned incredulously. Bobby nodded towards the front entrance, his curly beard bouncing as he did. Myles followed his lead and let his eyes fall on a woman with vibrant red hair, of a very unnatural shade. “What in the world…” he asked no one in particular, heading towards her. He was halfway over to Tara when a hand on his shoulder stopped him from moving forward.
“Myles, who is that?” Elizabeth Leland demanded in a harsh, disgusted tone.
“Who is who, mother?” Myles answered apathetically. She pointed an accusatory finger towards the doorway.
“That, mother, is my date,” Myles retorted defensively once he realized she was referring to Tara.
“You can’t be serious! She’s… she’s…” she responded, appalled.
“She’s what?” he required in a brusque tone.
“Well, look at her! Myles, what you do… outside of the office is your own business. I’d rather not know about those little adventures. But to let it intermingle with your social life? That’s absolutely-”
“What exactly are you implying, Elizabeth?” She dismissed his question with a wave of her hand.
“Never mind-- here comes the little harlot now.” She raised an eyebrow and pursed her lips in a haughty manner.
“What did you call her, Elizabeth Amelia Leland?” Myles demanded angrily. She looked right past him, as if he hadn’t said anything, and forced a smile.
“Hello, dear,” Elizabeth Leland gushed exuberantly.
“Um, hi,” Tara replied uncertainly from behind Myles.
“Tara, this is my mother,” Myles introduced through clenched teeth. “Mother, Tara Williams.” He wrapped his arm around her waist, wishing he could protect her from his mother’s incredibly offensive ways. She has startled slightly at his action, but settled back down, determined not to question him in his mother’s presence, especially when the tension was so thick. He turned his head towards her and was assaulted by a mass of bright red, spiraling curls, held in place by black butterfly clips. She looked up at him and smiled happily. He couldn’t bear to return the gesture. Gathering up enough courage, he fully intended to pull his date away and leave Elizabeth in the dust when she beckoned Tara closer.
“Mm, hm?” Tara questioned amiably, oblivious to the woman’s true intent. The elder Leland tugged lightly on the agent’s arm and she stepped out of Myles’ hold.
“Tara, isn’t it?” she implored.
“Uh, yes,” Tara answered, feeling more than a bit awkward. Myles stood by, watching helplessly.
“Tara, then, I know that you are trying to help my son in his time of need, and I appreciate that. However, I’m afraid your presence here is not… acceptable.” Tara raised her eyebrows and was about to interrupt when Elizabeth went on. “I don’t know how much Myles paid you to escort him tonight, but I will pay you twice as much, in addition to that amount, if you agree to leave now, quietly, without causing a scene,” she whispered in a sugary sweet tone. Without saying a word, Tara spun on her heels and headed for the front door, tears immediately filling her eyes. Myles shot Elizabeth a glare that communicated as much hatred as a perfectly sane man could have for his own mother, then rushed after Tara, making sure to grab her forgotten coat and purse on the way out the door.
*****
Myles looked past Senator Minton as he shook the politician’s hand, eyeing the crowded room wearily. By all outward indications, the event was a smash. Some of the biggest names in Congress were in attendance, and his parents couldn’t have been more thrilled. However, the excitement was lost on him. Not a one of his coworkers had arrived yet, and he was desperate for an excuse to leave his mother’s side. He breathed a prayer of thanks when he saw Darcy DeAngelo enter the room, dressed in a glittering red gown that hugged her figure all the way down to the floor. His eyes widened as a very realistic Santa Claus followed closely behind her.
“Excuse me, mother,” Myles said briefly. He quickly crossed the room to where the two new arrivals were standing. “Why Ms. DeAngelo, what a pleasant surprise! I didn’t know if you were going to make it this evening.”
“Well, Ol’ Saint Nick, here, was very persistent,” she revealed as Bobby wrapped his arms around her from behind and rested his chin on her shoulder. “But, I’m afraid Santa got his holidays mixed up.”
“Nah, I just decided to go for a dash of red in the attire,” Bobby protested, pressing a fuzzy kiss to Darcy’s cheek.
“At least you didn’t show up as Cupid,” Myles quipped dryly.
“Interesting thought,” Bobby considered cheekily, before someone by the front door caught his eye. “It looks like I’m not the only one who’s creatively dressed. It seems that Tara decided to come as a tomato.”
“Huh?” Myles questioned incredulously. Bobby nodded towards the front entrance, his curly beard bouncing as he did. Myles followed his lead and let his eyes fall on a woman with vibrant red hair, of a very unnatural shade. “What in the world…” he asked no one in particular, heading towards her. He was halfway over to Tara when a hand on his shoulder stopped him from moving forward.
“Myles, who is that?” Elizabeth Leland demanded in a harsh, disgusted tone.
“Who is who, mother?” Myles answered apathetically. She pointed an accusatory finger towards the doorway.
“That, mother, is my date,” Myles retorted defensively once he realized she was referring to Tara.
“You can’t be serious! She’s… she’s…” she responded, appalled.
“She’s what?” he required in a brusque tone.
“Well, look at her! Myles, what you do… outside of the office is your own business. I’d rather not know about those little adventures. But to let it intermingle with your social life? That’s absolutely-”
“What exactly are you implying, Elizabeth?” She dismissed his question with a wave of her hand.
“Never mind-- here comes the little harlot now.” She raised an eyebrow and pursed her lips in a haughty manner.
“What did you call her, Elizabeth Amelia Leland?” Myles demanded angrily. She looked right past him, as if he hadn’t said anything, and forced a smile.
“Hello, dear,” Elizabeth Leland gushed exuberantly.
“Um, hi,” Tara replied uncertainly from behind Myles.
“Tara, this is my mother,” Myles introduced through clenched teeth. “Mother, Tara Williams.” He wrapped his arm around her waist, wishing he could protect her from his mother’s incredibly offensive ways. She has startled slightly at his action, but settled back down, determined not to question him in his mother’s presence, especially when the tension was so thick. He turned his head towards her and was assaulted by a mass of bright red, spiraling curls, held in place by black butterfly clips. She looked up at him and smiled happily. He couldn’t bear to return the gesture. Gathering up enough courage, he fully intended to pull his date away and leave Elizabeth in the dust when she beckoned Tara closer.
“Mm, hm?” Tara questioned amiably, oblivious to the woman’s true intent. The elder Leland tugged lightly on the agent’s arm and she stepped out of Myles’ hold.
“Tara, isn’t it?” she implored.
“Uh, yes,” Tara answered, feeling more than a bit awkward. Myles stood by, watching helplessly.
“Tara, then, I know that you are trying to help my son in his time of need, and I appreciate that. However, I’m afraid your presence here is not… acceptable.” Tara raised her eyebrows and was about to interrupt when Elizabeth went on. “I don’t know how much Myles paid you to escort him tonight, but I will pay you twice as much, in addition to that amount, if you agree to leave now, quietly, without causing a scene,” she whispered in a sugary sweet tone. Without saying a word, Tara spun on her heels and headed for the front door, tears immediately filling her eyes. Myles shot Elizabeth a glare that communicated as much hatred as a perfectly sane man could have for his own mother, then rushed after Tara, making sure to grab her forgotten coat and purse on the way out the door.
*****
Woops, I realized I have a post ready that I haven't posted here yet. Here it is:
It was beginning to snow and it was already bitterly cold outside. Cars lined the street outside of his home and he scanned them, looking for Tara. Myles finally saw her briskly walking down the sidewalk with her arms tightly wrapped around her torso. He knew she must be freezing, with thin black nylons and a red leather skirt covering her legs. The skirt reached her knees. While she was wearing a black sweater, it was definitely not keeping her warm. He couldn’t help but notice how attractive it looked on her, though.
“Tara,” he called out. She didn’t hear him; his voice was lost in the wind. Myles broke out into a jog, not noticing the bewildered looks of the late arrivals to his mother’s party. She tugged on one of her car’s door handles, not caring that it wasn’t the driver’s side. It was locked. Just then, he could see realization play across her features. Her keys were in her purse, which was back in Myles’ coat closet with her warm jacket- at least so she thought.
“Tara,” Myles repeated, slightly out of breath. She ignored him and clenched her teeth, blinking back her tears. She moved to the next door handle and tugged on it, finding that it, too, was locked. “You’ll freeze out here.” She shook her head and made to travel around the back of the car. “If you’re really going to leave, you’ll need your keys. I’ve got your purse.” She refused to acknowledge him and tugged on the handle of the other back door. As to be expected, it was locked.
“Myles raced around the front end of the vehicle and intercepted her as she reached the front door, draping the thick coat over her shoulders. He held it there until she stilled and shuddered beneath his fingers. Myles rubbed her upper arms, trying to coax her out of her silent shell. Suddenly, she whirled around to face him.
“What did you tell her, Myles?” she questioned coldly, her words like ice.
“Tara, I… I just told her I had a date for tonight,” he stammered.
“Was that all? Was it just how I looked tonight that made her think I was a streetwalker?” she interrogated painfully.
“Tara, I think you look fantastic, but if it’s anything, it might be the red leather that gave her the wrong impression… and maybe the hair,” he answered a bit too honestly. Tara burst into tears.
“I just wanted to look special!” she admitted in between sobs. He pulled a red silk handkerchief out of his breast pocket and she took it gratefully, wiping her eyes as the tears kept falling. “The hair color turned out all wrong, and now… now I look like a prostitute!” She looked up at him tearfully and hiccupped. “I just wanted to be festive.”
“Tara, you look nothing like a prostitute. You look lovely. My mother’s just a blind old coot,” He said as he wrapped an arm around her and pulled her to his side. She laughed a little, a sob locked in her throat. It was then that it all came back to him, and he looked back into her imploring eyes. He chuckled nervously, guiltily. “Tara, I just realized… I think I may have said some things to my mother earlier, all with good intentions, that may have given her the wrong idea about you. Paired with your Valentine’s Day attire… well, I feel at least partially responsible for all of this.”
“What did you say, Einstein?” she demanded, more fierce now that her tears were subsiding. She turned to face him directly, forgetting how close they were standing.
“I meant it as genuine praise! Honest!” he threw out in his defense, raising his arms in surrender.
“Alright, out with it!” She jabbed a finger to his chest and he sighed in resignation, letting her step back and cross her arms across her chest.
“Well, my mother, the witch that you just had the pleasure of meeting, was railing on about how I didn’t have a date for tonight, so I told her I had one, which was the truth.” He stopped, unsure of how to present his unintentional, and unforeseen, blunder.
“Seems harmless enough.” Tara sniffled.
“It was, until she found out I’d invited you to come as my date only five minutes prior.” She eyed him suspiciously and he continued. “She was shocked, so I told her the truth, that you were very flexible and always accommodating to others’ needs. I don’t know how she took it, but she obviously didn’t take it at face value.” They were silent for a moment, letting the reality of it sink in.
“No, she didn’t” Tara remarked, in wonder.
“So!” Myles exclaimed, desperate to change the subject. “How would you like to go back to the party with me. Then we can really show her who’s boss, hmmm?” Tara paused thoughtfully, then nodded her assent.
“I’ll go-- as long as I don’t have to talk to your mother again.”
“Deal. I wouldn’t think of it.” He looked at her before adding one last thing. “Tara, you look like a princess, definitely not anything less. I’m happy to be your prince, tonight.” Coming from Myles, normally the comment would have carried a haughty tone, but this time it was completely genuine. Tara blushed and signed ‘thank you’, pleasantly surprised when he understood. She linked her arm through his and together, they trudged back through the snow to face the storm brewing in the house, once again.
*****
It was beginning to snow and it was already bitterly cold outside. Cars lined the street outside of his home and he scanned them, looking for Tara. Myles finally saw her briskly walking down the sidewalk with her arms tightly wrapped around her torso. He knew she must be freezing, with thin black nylons and a red leather skirt covering her legs. The skirt reached her knees. While she was wearing a black sweater, it was definitely not keeping her warm. He couldn’t help but notice how attractive it looked on her, though.
“Tara,” he called out. She didn’t hear him; his voice was lost in the wind. Myles broke out into a jog, not noticing the bewildered looks of the late arrivals to his mother’s party. She tugged on one of her car’s door handles, not caring that it wasn’t the driver’s side. It was locked. Just then, he could see realization play across her features. Her keys were in her purse, which was back in Myles’ coat closet with her warm jacket- at least so she thought.
“Tara,” Myles repeated, slightly out of breath. She ignored him and clenched her teeth, blinking back her tears. She moved to the next door handle and tugged on it, finding that it, too, was locked. “You’ll freeze out here.” She shook her head and made to travel around the back of the car. “If you’re really going to leave, you’ll need your keys. I’ve got your purse.” She refused to acknowledge him and tugged on the handle of the other back door. As to be expected, it was locked.
“Myles raced around the front end of the vehicle and intercepted her as she reached the front door, draping the thick coat over her shoulders. He held it there until she stilled and shuddered beneath his fingers. Myles rubbed her upper arms, trying to coax her out of her silent shell. Suddenly, she whirled around to face him.
“What did you tell her, Myles?” she questioned coldly, her words like ice.
“Tara, I… I just told her I had a date for tonight,” he stammered.
“Was that all? Was it just how I looked tonight that made her think I was a streetwalker?” she interrogated painfully.
“Tara, I think you look fantastic, but if it’s anything, it might be the red leather that gave her the wrong impression… and maybe the hair,” he answered a bit too honestly. Tara burst into tears.
“I just wanted to look special!” she admitted in between sobs. He pulled a red silk handkerchief out of his breast pocket and she took it gratefully, wiping her eyes as the tears kept falling. “The hair color turned out all wrong, and now… now I look like a prostitute!” She looked up at him tearfully and hiccupped. “I just wanted to be festive.”
“Tara, you look nothing like a prostitute. You look lovely. My mother’s just a blind old coot,” He said as he wrapped an arm around her and pulled her to his side. She laughed a little, a sob locked in her throat. It was then that it all came back to him, and he looked back into her imploring eyes. He chuckled nervously, guiltily. “Tara, I just realized… I think I may have said some things to my mother earlier, all with good intentions, that may have given her the wrong idea about you. Paired with your Valentine’s Day attire… well, I feel at least partially responsible for all of this.”
“What did you say, Einstein?” she demanded, more fierce now that her tears were subsiding. She turned to face him directly, forgetting how close they were standing.
“I meant it as genuine praise! Honest!” he threw out in his defense, raising his arms in surrender.
“Alright, out with it!” She jabbed a finger to his chest and he sighed in resignation, letting her step back and cross her arms across her chest.
“Well, my mother, the witch that you just had the pleasure of meeting, was railing on about how I didn’t have a date for tonight, so I told her I had one, which was the truth.” He stopped, unsure of how to present his unintentional, and unforeseen, blunder.
“Seems harmless enough.” Tara sniffled.
“It was, until she found out I’d invited you to come as my date only five minutes prior.” She eyed him suspiciously and he continued. “She was shocked, so I told her the truth, that you were very flexible and always accommodating to others’ needs. I don’t know how she took it, but she obviously didn’t take it at face value.” They were silent for a moment, letting the reality of it sink in.
“No, she didn’t” Tara remarked, in wonder.
“So!” Myles exclaimed, desperate to change the subject. “How would you like to go back to the party with me. Then we can really show her who’s boss, hmmm?” Tara paused thoughtfully, then nodded her assent.
“I’ll go-- as long as I don’t have to talk to your mother again.”
“Deal. I wouldn’t think of it.” He looked at her before adding one last thing. “Tara, you look like a princess, definitely not anything less. I’m happy to be your prince, tonight.” Coming from Myles, normally the comment would have carried a haughty tone, but this time it was completely genuine. Tara blushed and signed ‘thank you’, pleasantly surprised when he understood. She linked her arm through his and together, they trudged back through the snow to face the storm brewing in the house, once again.
*****
Here's the next part!
When the pair re-entered the large home, they could see Elizabeth and her daughter, Anne, in a heated conversation. When the latter saw them, she quickly excused herself and crossed over to them in a flash.
“Myles, our mother is impossible!” Anne fumed in exasperation.
“Yes, that’s nothing new. We’ve already seen her in action tonight and it was a somewhat less than pleasant experience,” Myles replied, pulling Tara just a bit closer. “She had it in her head that my date was unfit for the party!” Anne’s eyes narrowed.
“Unfortunately, that’s no surprise. Tara, I’m so sorry for my mother’s behavior.” Tara waved off her apology.
“I’ve seen worse. I’ll get over it. Just remind me not to die my hair before a high-society party… or wear leather,” Tara remarked.
“Personally, I think it’s a very attractive outfit. Elizabeth Leland is just a stick in the mud,” Myles stated bluntly.
“Well, hello!” an overly enthusiastic voice chimed behind them. They turned to see Mrs. Leland greeting Jack and Sue, who had just arrived. She shook hands with them both and it seemed to be going well. All three were smiling… until Elizabeth started speaking in a very exaggerated manner and Jack discreetly took Sue’s hand. Myles, Tara, and Anne all looked at each other, wondering if there was more to Jack’s gesture than a simple show of support.
“Mrs. Leland, I-” Sue began.
“Please, call… me… Eli-za-beth,” she replied in deliberately drawn out words.
“Elizabeth, I was just going to say that as long as you face me, I can understand you if you speak normally,” Sue explained.
“Oh,” Elizabeth said flatly. “Of course, dear.”
“Do you know where we can find Myles?” Jack interjected.
“The last I saw of him, he was running out the door after a tramp wearing a leather skirt-- most disgraceful, really.”
“Would that skirt happen to be red?” Sue asked gingerly.
“Oh, it was just awful! Yes, it was red, and a ridiculously bright shade of it.” Sue squeezed Jack’s hand and he squeezed back. When she wriggled her fingers, he loosened his grip, understanding. She fingerspelled T-A-R-A lightly against his palm.
“Could you excuse us for a moment?” Jack requested politely. Elizabeth nodded.
“Certainly.” He pulled her of to the side as Elizabeth continued under her breath, “a hooker for a date with Santa Claus and a deaf girl for coworkers. No wonder he hasn’t amounted to much.” Jack was relieved that Sue hadn’t seen her words, because hearing them made wringing Elizabeth Leland’s neck sound very tempting. Forcing the thought to the back of his mind, he turned to Sue.
“What’s up?” he asked. “You think she was talking about Tara?” Sue nodded with concern in her eyes.
“Tara described her outfit to me earlier today over the phone. From all the exclamation points I read, she seemed to be pretty excited about it, too. She said that she was going to wear a fabulous red black sweater and a red, leather skirt,” Sue told him nervously.
“Come to think of it, I don’t think anybody but Tara would show up to one of these things in red leather,” he mused, chuckling slightly.
“Jack, it’s not funny!! If Tara runs into Mrs. Leland, things are not going to go well. We’ve got to tell her to stay away from Myles’ mother!” Sue exclaimed with her hands on her hips.
“I know; I’m sorry,” he apologized, linking his arm through the crook of her elbow. He proceeded to wrap it around her waist, kissing her cheek lightly.
“Jack! People will see!” Sue protested, pulling away. He looked at her, surprised.
“What’s your point?” he asked impishly. She rolled her eyes at him. “Hey! It’s supposedly the most romantic day of the year!” He pulled her closer. “If anyone asks, I’ll just say I ate too much chocolate,” Jack plotted aloud, following his words with a tender kiss to her forehead. “Let’s go find Tara.”
Flushed and embarrassed, but overwhelmingly happy, Sue forced her thoughts back onto Tara and nodded. She couldn’t help but feel disappointed when Jack took him arm back from around her and grasped her hand instead. He must have seen the look in her eyes because he winked and her and mouthed ‘later’. She smiled.
Later.
*****
When the pair re-entered the large home, they could see Elizabeth and her daughter, Anne, in a heated conversation. When the latter saw them, she quickly excused herself and crossed over to them in a flash.
“Myles, our mother is impossible!” Anne fumed in exasperation.
“Yes, that’s nothing new. We’ve already seen her in action tonight and it was a somewhat less than pleasant experience,” Myles replied, pulling Tara just a bit closer. “She had it in her head that my date was unfit for the party!” Anne’s eyes narrowed.
“Unfortunately, that’s no surprise. Tara, I’m so sorry for my mother’s behavior.” Tara waved off her apology.
“I’ve seen worse. I’ll get over it. Just remind me not to die my hair before a high-society party… or wear leather,” Tara remarked.
“Personally, I think it’s a very attractive outfit. Elizabeth Leland is just a stick in the mud,” Myles stated bluntly.
“Well, hello!” an overly enthusiastic voice chimed behind them. They turned to see Mrs. Leland greeting Jack and Sue, who had just arrived. She shook hands with them both and it seemed to be going well. All three were smiling… until Elizabeth started speaking in a very exaggerated manner and Jack discreetly took Sue’s hand. Myles, Tara, and Anne all looked at each other, wondering if there was more to Jack’s gesture than a simple show of support.
“Mrs. Leland, I-” Sue began.
“Please, call… me… Eli-za-beth,” she replied in deliberately drawn out words.
“Elizabeth, I was just going to say that as long as you face me, I can understand you if you speak normally,” Sue explained.
“Oh,” Elizabeth said flatly. “Of course, dear.”
“Do you know where we can find Myles?” Jack interjected.
“The last I saw of him, he was running out the door after a tramp wearing a leather skirt-- most disgraceful, really.”
“Would that skirt happen to be red?” Sue asked gingerly.
“Oh, it was just awful! Yes, it was red, and a ridiculously bright shade of it.” Sue squeezed Jack’s hand and he squeezed back. When she wriggled her fingers, he loosened his grip, understanding. She fingerspelled T-A-R-A lightly against his palm.
“Could you excuse us for a moment?” Jack requested politely. Elizabeth nodded.
“Certainly.” He pulled her of to the side as Elizabeth continued under her breath, “a hooker for a date with Santa Claus and a deaf girl for coworkers. No wonder he hasn’t amounted to much.” Jack was relieved that Sue hadn’t seen her words, because hearing them made wringing Elizabeth Leland’s neck sound very tempting. Forcing the thought to the back of his mind, he turned to Sue.
“What’s up?” he asked. “You think she was talking about Tara?” Sue nodded with concern in her eyes.
“Tara described her outfit to me earlier today over the phone. From all the exclamation points I read, she seemed to be pretty excited about it, too. She said that she was going to wear a fabulous red black sweater and a red, leather skirt,” Sue told him nervously.
“Come to think of it, I don’t think anybody but Tara would show up to one of these things in red leather,” he mused, chuckling slightly.
“Jack, it’s not funny!! If Tara runs into Mrs. Leland, things are not going to go well. We’ve got to tell her to stay away from Myles’ mother!” Sue exclaimed with her hands on her hips.
“I know; I’m sorry,” he apologized, linking his arm through the crook of her elbow. He proceeded to wrap it around her waist, kissing her cheek lightly.
“Jack! People will see!” Sue protested, pulling away. He looked at her, surprised.
“What’s your point?” he asked impishly. She rolled her eyes at him. “Hey! It’s supposedly the most romantic day of the year!” He pulled her closer. “If anyone asks, I’ll just say I ate too much chocolate,” Jack plotted aloud, following his words with a tender kiss to her forehead. “Let’s go find Tara.”
Flushed and embarrassed, but overwhelmingly happy, Sue forced her thoughts back onto Tara and nodded. She couldn’t help but feel disappointed when Jack took him arm back from around her and grasped her hand instead. He must have seen the look in her eyes because he winked and her and mouthed ‘later’. She smiled.
Later.
*****
Alright, I just finished writing this... with 25 minutes to spare before the deadline on Jacynthe’s site!! What a relief! lol. I wasn’t able to get it up last night due to technical problems, though. Well, it was fun to write, but I had to rush at the last minute, so hopefully it still works. BTW, I think you'll like Elizabeth's... treatment... at least I hope it's satisfactory. Enjoy!!
A/N: I never saw the pilot, so I have no idea what the name of the woman Myles was cheating on Lucy with was, or if they even mentioned it. So, I made up one. Enjoy!
What Jack and Sue didn’t know was that Tara had found them long before they had a chance to look for her… and she wasn’t alone. Anne, Myles, and Tara were all standing together, watching the couple with surprise and amusement on their faces. When they finally found each other, they all looked uncomfortable. Jack and Sue approached the others.
“I didn’t know you and Sue came together,” Myles observed slyly.
“And I didn’t know you and Tara were an item,” Jack countered cheekily. Myles shrugged.
“We’re not. It was just a matter of… of…” Myles stammered.
“Convenience,” Tara interjected quickly, before looking up at Myles.
“Convenience,” Myles echoed thoughtfully, meeting Tara’s gaze, which he couldn’t quite decipher. There was something in it that nagged at him, but he couldn’t identify it. He shook his head briskly and looked back to the couple standing before him.
“What about you two? I don’t remember this being planned beforehand.”
“Convenience,” Sue answered quickly with a sugary sweet smile, squeezing Jack’s hand as she did so.
“Looked like more than convenience to me… pleasure, maybe?” Myles went on daringly.
“It seems that Jack overdid it on the chocolate this evening. He was a little too enthusiastic about the Valentine’s Day spirit,” Sue lied.
“Oh really?” Tara asked suspiciously. “It seemed that you must have overdone it on the goodies too, since you seemed pretty receptive.” She was careful to keep her tone observational, not interrogational.
“We both ate chocolate… a lot of it,” Jack fumbled.
“Uh huh,” Myles remarked dryly. “Whatever you say, loverboy.”
“Hey! That was-” Jack began to retort. Anne just watched, amused.
“Myles! Myles, what is the meaning of this? I demand to know,” Elizabeth Leland hissed angrily as she crossed the floor to where the five of them were standing.
“Mother, I do not wish to speak with you at this moment, or anytime in the near future. Now, if you would kindly-” Myles spoke firmly.
“What is she doing here?” Elizabeth went on, ignoring Myles’ negative reception. She pointed a bony finger towards the doorway. The five of them followed her line of sight, finding Lucy and Troy at the end of it, signing at a slow pace.
“Elizabeth, I invited them. If you have a problem with it, leave.”
“But Myles, after what she did to you, you couldn’t possibly be on good terms. And now she’s using that strange language. Don’t tell me she’s gone deaf, too!”
“What, exactly, did Lucy do to me?” Myles inquired in a dangerously low tone.
“Those years ago, when you were going to go on that glorious vacation, and she got in the way with her arrogance.”
“Excuse me! Obviously someone crossed your I’s and dotted your T’s. If you’re talking about when Lucy and I ended our relationship, it was my fault, and mine alone.” His friends stared at the agent, shocked. “Have you no decency?”
“But she drove you away. You wouldn’t have turned to Melinda without good reason.”
“I went to Melinda because I was a self-seeking pig,” he protested wildly, his voice raising so it was heard above the crowd. An unnatural silence filled the room. “I was a jerk. Lucy has every right to drop me cold. I left her for a completely inferior woman, and that’s something I’ll regret for the rest of my life.” At this point, he didn’t care that he was shouting, or that every person in the entire house could hear him clearly… except for Sue, that is. She couldn’t even read his lips because he was speaking so angrily. But Jack mouthed everything he was saying to her, so she didn’t miss out on much.
“Ever since you began planning this… this thing, you have been insulting me, and my friends. You have no respect for me, my life, or the people I care about, and right now, you are not one of them. Frankly, I don’t care who you invited here tonight or how important they are. If you don’t have enough decency to respect the people I call my friends, then you can leave my house, right now,” Myles yelled, irate.
“Myles, honey-”
“Don’t you honey me, Elizabeth. You don’t deserve that right.”
“Anne, talk some sense into him,” Elizabeth pleaded.
“I think he has a lot more sense now than he ever did. Please, save what little dignity you have left and leave,” Anne answered. “I have no sympathy for you.”
Without saying a word, Elizabeth held her head high, turned, and walked straight to the front door, the crowd of guests moving to make an isle for her to pass through… almost as though she was a queen.
“And for the rest of you, if you cannot respect the people my mother refused to accept, then you can follow her right out the door. Otherwise, enjoy the rest of your evening.” Most of the guests left the house in a hurry, leaving behind only a few good-hearted couples. They all came up to Myles to thank him and commend his bravery. Standing up to Elizabeth Amelia Leland was not something commonly seen.
“Hey, what’s going on? I didn’t think we were that late!” a voice came from the doorway. “Where’s everyone going?” It was Dimitrius with his wife, Donna, peering into the nearly empty room.
“D! We were beginning to wonder if you’d ever show up!” Bobby greeted warmly, walking over to them, eager to tell them about Myles’ grand speech. He brought them back to where everyone stood near the center of the room and once they were brought up to speed, they too felt a new respect for Myles. They all did.
“I guess I don’t have to worry about mingling with all those senators’ wives,” Donna whispered to her husband. “They’ve all disappeared.” He gave her a squeeze.
“Not quite,” a shy voice behind them chimed in. They turned to see a woman, in her early forties, looking at them with a timid smile. “I’m Alicia Minton, Senator Minton’s wife.” Donna looked down at the floor before looking up again, thoroughly embarrassed.
“I’m sorry,” Donna said honestly. “I’m afraid I had found the idea of talking to high-society women a bit daunting.” Alicia chuckled.
“Well, I’m sick of it. We’re from Ohio, and I was raised on a farm; I miss it now. I dread every one of these big events where I’m expected to talk to all the other senators’ wives.”
“It seems that you and I will get along just fine, then,” Donna replied with a warm smile. “How’d you like the grand tour of Myles’ home. I know it like the back of my hand from all the parties he’s invited my husband and I to over the years.” She leaned in towards Alicia. “I dreaded every one of them.” They both chuckled and linked arms, heading off towards the staircase.
“Hey guys, I think we’re missing somebody,” Tara observed. “Where are Jack and Sue?” True enough, they were nowhere to be found. The team spread out to look for them in the extensive room. Myles made sure that everyone was looking around the elaborate decorations and bows saying ‘Will You Be My Valentine’ hung up all over the place, insinuating that Jack and Sue could be hiding behind one of them.
Finally, Lucy spotted them in a corner of the room, very close to the live band they had all but forgotten about. Together, they gathered a safe distance away. It appeared that the couple was in their own world, slowing dancing to a gentle song. Sue had removed her shoes so she could feel the faint vibrations through the wooden dance floor, and her eyes were trained on Jack’s lips.
“Is he actually singing to her?!” Lucy whispered excitedly to Tara.
“It sure looks like it!” Tara replied in a hushed but enthusiastic tone.
“That is so perfect!” the two of them exclaimed quietly with huge smiles on their faces.
*****
Sue watched as Jack sang to her, nestled in his arms. She felt safe, and there was nothing that existed except her, him, and the words he was singing. Nothing else. Her heart swelled at the song and she wondered if he was merely reciting it, or if it really held meaning for her, in his heart. She couldn’t help but wish for the latter.
I've watched the sunrise in your eyes
And I've seen the tears fall like the rain
You've seen me fight so brave and strong
You've held my hand when I'm afraid
We've watched the seasons come and go
We'll see them come and go again
But in winter's chill, or summer's breeze
One thing will not be changin'
We will dance
When the sun is shining
In the pouring rain
We'll spin and we'll sway
And we will dance
When the gentle breeze
Becomes a hurricane
The music will play
And I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we will dance
Sometimes it's hard to hold you tight
Sometimes we feel so far apart
Sometimes we dance as one
And feel the beating of each others hearts
Some days the dance is slow and sweet
Some days we're bouncing off the walls
No matter how this world may turn
Our love will keep us from fallin'
And we will dance
When the sun is shining
In the pouring rain
We'll spin and we'll sway
And we will dance
When the gentle breeze
Becomes a hurricane
The music will play
And I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we will dance
The music will play
And I'll hold you close
And I won't let you go
Even when our steps
Grow weak and slow
Still I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we, will dance
Every time the words stopped and it was music only that played, he would smile at her, warmly, intensely, lovingly. She couldn’t stop herself from smiling back. Then, when the singing would begin again, his smile would fade from his lips but remain in his eyes, so she could read his every word. When the song came to an end, Sue rested her head on his shoulder, perfectly content to remain there. They continued to dance to the silence in between the band’s songs, finding their own rhythm, their own music, found through the beating of their hearts, not the listening of their ears. Finally, Jack’s feet stopped and Sue slowed, looking up at him. All movement ceased as their eyes locked.
Having forgotten that anyone existed besides themselves, he brought his lips to hers, melting into her and embracing her tightly. Their kiss was gentle, but far from lacking in passion. It was slow, not heated or rushed. They were savoring the moment, one that had only been a dream for such a long time before. Bit by bit, they gave more of themselves to the other, careful not to give too much. There was so much that needed to be locked away, kept for a time both of them hoped was in their future. This was only the beginning, with so much promise lingering in their gentle touch. He pulled away first, pleased at seeing such a strong but tender desire in her eyes. He nipped playfully at her bottom lip and kissed her one last time, a quick but fierce union. She smiled, breathless, but happy.
Wild applause broke into the world that had been their own for a sacred moment in time, and when Jack turned, Sue followed suit, wondering at the sudden change of pace. The entire team was standing there in a group, watching them and clapping, cheering, smiling. They were not alone. Sue buried her head in Jack’s chest, too embarrassed for words. Overwhelming feelings surged through her and the last thing she wanted was for the team to tease and make fun of them, or her girlfriends to fawn over her. She wanted Jack, and only Jack. Sensing her discomfort, Jack lifted her chin and mouthed a few timeless words to her: words that warmed her heart at the very thought of them.
I love you.
And at that moment, the rest of the team faded away; she no longer cared that they were watching. Jack loved her! She mouthed the same words back to him with tears in her eyes, knowing they were simple enough for anyone to read. He smiled brilliantly and captured her mouth once again, joyous in his fervor as he pressed his lips to hers. But, he could not surpass Sue’s joy. They were equal, perfectly-matched, and ordained for each other. It could not have been more right.
*****
Knowing that the pair needed their space, when Jack went to kiss her again, she grabbed Myles’ hand and dragged him out onto the middle of the floor, ordering him to dance with her. He complied. Soon, each pair was dancing, enjoying the evening as couples, friends, and for some, lovers. Tara looked up at Myles and smiled, letting him know that she was enjoying herself, and that the past words spoken by his mother were forgotten. She signed ‘thank you’ to him, knowing now that he could understand it. She could see his smile brighten and feel his arms tighten around her as he pulled her into an embrace. She hugged him tightly, wondering at the emotions coursing through her. What was she feeling? And better yet, why? As she felt his lips touch her cheek ever so slightly, she decided that she didn’t want to figure out her feelings at that moment. She simply wanted to enjoy them, and maybe someday she’d have a real love to call her own. And maybe… just maybe, he was no more than a step away.
*****
A/N: The song I used here was “We Will Dance” by Stephen Curtis Chapman. Beautiful song!
A/N: I never saw the pilot, so I have no idea what the name of the woman Myles was cheating on Lucy with was, or if they even mentioned it. So, I made up one. Enjoy!
What Jack and Sue didn’t know was that Tara had found them long before they had a chance to look for her… and she wasn’t alone. Anne, Myles, and Tara were all standing together, watching the couple with surprise and amusement on their faces. When they finally found each other, they all looked uncomfortable. Jack and Sue approached the others.
“I didn’t know you and Sue came together,” Myles observed slyly.
“And I didn’t know you and Tara were an item,” Jack countered cheekily. Myles shrugged.
“We’re not. It was just a matter of… of…” Myles stammered.
“Convenience,” Tara interjected quickly, before looking up at Myles.
“Convenience,” Myles echoed thoughtfully, meeting Tara’s gaze, which he couldn’t quite decipher. There was something in it that nagged at him, but he couldn’t identify it. He shook his head briskly and looked back to the couple standing before him.
“What about you two? I don’t remember this being planned beforehand.”
“Convenience,” Sue answered quickly with a sugary sweet smile, squeezing Jack’s hand as she did so.
“Looked like more than convenience to me… pleasure, maybe?” Myles went on daringly.
“It seems that Jack overdid it on the chocolate this evening. He was a little too enthusiastic about the Valentine’s Day spirit,” Sue lied.
“Oh really?” Tara asked suspiciously. “It seemed that you must have overdone it on the goodies too, since you seemed pretty receptive.” She was careful to keep her tone observational, not interrogational.
“We both ate chocolate… a lot of it,” Jack fumbled.
“Uh huh,” Myles remarked dryly. “Whatever you say, loverboy.”
“Hey! That was-” Jack began to retort. Anne just watched, amused.
“Myles! Myles, what is the meaning of this? I demand to know,” Elizabeth Leland hissed angrily as she crossed the floor to where the five of them were standing.
“Mother, I do not wish to speak with you at this moment, or anytime in the near future. Now, if you would kindly-” Myles spoke firmly.
“What is she doing here?” Elizabeth went on, ignoring Myles’ negative reception. She pointed a bony finger towards the doorway. The five of them followed her line of sight, finding Lucy and Troy at the end of it, signing at a slow pace.
“Elizabeth, I invited them. If you have a problem with it, leave.”
“But Myles, after what she did to you, you couldn’t possibly be on good terms. And now she’s using that strange language. Don’t tell me she’s gone deaf, too!”
“What, exactly, did Lucy do to me?” Myles inquired in a dangerously low tone.
“Those years ago, when you were going to go on that glorious vacation, and she got in the way with her arrogance.”
“Excuse me! Obviously someone crossed your I’s and dotted your T’s. If you’re talking about when Lucy and I ended our relationship, it was my fault, and mine alone.” His friends stared at the agent, shocked. “Have you no decency?”
“But she drove you away. You wouldn’t have turned to Melinda without good reason.”
“I went to Melinda because I was a self-seeking pig,” he protested wildly, his voice raising so it was heard above the crowd. An unnatural silence filled the room. “I was a jerk. Lucy has every right to drop me cold. I left her for a completely inferior woman, and that’s something I’ll regret for the rest of my life.” At this point, he didn’t care that he was shouting, or that every person in the entire house could hear him clearly… except for Sue, that is. She couldn’t even read his lips because he was speaking so angrily. But Jack mouthed everything he was saying to her, so she didn’t miss out on much.
“Ever since you began planning this… this thing, you have been insulting me, and my friends. You have no respect for me, my life, or the people I care about, and right now, you are not one of them. Frankly, I don’t care who you invited here tonight or how important they are. If you don’t have enough decency to respect the people I call my friends, then you can leave my house, right now,” Myles yelled, irate.
“Myles, honey-”
“Don’t you honey me, Elizabeth. You don’t deserve that right.”
“Anne, talk some sense into him,” Elizabeth pleaded.
“I think he has a lot more sense now than he ever did. Please, save what little dignity you have left and leave,” Anne answered. “I have no sympathy for you.”
Without saying a word, Elizabeth held her head high, turned, and walked straight to the front door, the crowd of guests moving to make an isle for her to pass through… almost as though she was a queen.
“And for the rest of you, if you cannot respect the people my mother refused to accept, then you can follow her right out the door. Otherwise, enjoy the rest of your evening.” Most of the guests left the house in a hurry, leaving behind only a few good-hearted couples. They all came up to Myles to thank him and commend his bravery. Standing up to Elizabeth Amelia Leland was not something commonly seen.
“Hey, what’s going on? I didn’t think we were that late!” a voice came from the doorway. “Where’s everyone going?” It was Dimitrius with his wife, Donna, peering into the nearly empty room.
“D! We were beginning to wonder if you’d ever show up!” Bobby greeted warmly, walking over to them, eager to tell them about Myles’ grand speech. He brought them back to where everyone stood near the center of the room and once they were brought up to speed, they too felt a new respect for Myles. They all did.
“I guess I don’t have to worry about mingling with all those senators’ wives,” Donna whispered to her husband. “They’ve all disappeared.” He gave her a squeeze.
“Not quite,” a shy voice behind them chimed in. They turned to see a woman, in her early forties, looking at them with a timid smile. “I’m Alicia Minton, Senator Minton’s wife.” Donna looked down at the floor before looking up again, thoroughly embarrassed.
“I’m sorry,” Donna said honestly. “I’m afraid I had found the idea of talking to high-society women a bit daunting.” Alicia chuckled.
“Well, I’m sick of it. We’re from Ohio, and I was raised on a farm; I miss it now. I dread every one of these big events where I’m expected to talk to all the other senators’ wives.”
“It seems that you and I will get along just fine, then,” Donna replied with a warm smile. “How’d you like the grand tour of Myles’ home. I know it like the back of my hand from all the parties he’s invited my husband and I to over the years.” She leaned in towards Alicia. “I dreaded every one of them.” They both chuckled and linked arms, heading off towards the staircase.
“Hey guys, I think we’re missing somebody,” Tara observed. “Where are Jack and Sue?” True enough, they were nowhere to be found. The team spread out to look for them in the extensive room. Myles made sure that everyone was looking around the elaborate decorations and bows saying ‘Will You Be My Valentine’ hung up all over the place, insinuating that Jack and Sue could be hiding behind one of them.
Finally, Lucy spotted them in a corner of the room, very close to the live band they had all but forgotten about. Together, they gathered a safe distance away. It appeared that the couple was in their own world, slowing dancing to a gentle song. Sue had removed her shoes so she could feel the faint vibrations through the wooden dance floor, and her eyes were trained on Jack’s lips.
“Is he actually singing to her?!” Lucy whispered excitedly to Tara.
“It sure looks like it!” Tara replied in a hushed but enthusiastic tone.
“That is so perfect!” the two of them exclaimed quietly with huge smiles on their faces.
*****
Sue watched as Jack sang to her, nestled in his arms. She felt safe, and there was nothing that existed except her, him, and the words he was singing. Nothing else. Her heart swelled at the song and she wondered if he was merely reciting it, or if it really held meaning for her, in his heart. She couldn’t help but wish for the latter.
I've watched the sunrise in your eyes
And I've seen the tears fall like the rain
You've seen me fight so brave and strong
You've held my hand when I'm afraid
We've watched the seasons come and go
We'll see them come and go again
But in winter's chill, or summer's breeze
One thing will not be changin'
We will dance
When the sun is shining
In the pouring rain
We'll spin and we'll sway
And we will dance
When the gentle breeze
Becomes a hurricane
The music will play
And I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we will dance
Sometimes it's hard to hold you tight
Sometimes we feel so far apart
Sometimes we dance as one
And feel the beating of each others hearts
Some days the dance is slow and sweet
Some days we're bouncing off the walls
No matter how this world may turn
Our love will keep us from fallin'
And we will dance
When the sun is shining
In the pouring rain
We'll spin and we'll sway
And we will dance
When the gentle breeze
Becomes a hurricane
The music will play
And I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we will dance
The music will play
And I'll hold you close
And I won't let you go
Even when our steps
Grow weak and slow
Still I'll take your hand
And hold you close to me
And we, will dance
Every time the words stopped and it was music only that played, he would smile at her, warmly, intensely, lovingly. She couldn’t stop herself from smiling back. Then, when the singing would begin again, his smile would fade from his lips but remain in his eyes, so she could read his every word. When the song came to an end, Sue rested her head on his shoulder, perfectly content to remain there. They continued to dance to the silence in between the band’s songs, finding their own rhythm, their own music, found through the beating of their hearts, not the listening of their ears. Finally, Jack’s feet stopped and Sue slowed, looking up at him. All movement ceased as their eyes locked.
Having forgotten that anyone existed besides themselves, he brought his lips to hers, melting into her and embracing her tightly. Their kiss was gentle, but far from lacking in passion. It was slow, not heated or rushed. They were savoring the moment, one that had only been a dream for such a long time before. Bit by bit, they gave more of themselves to the other, careful not to give too much. There was so much that needed to be locked away, kept for a time both of them hoped was in their future. This was only the beginning, with so much promise lingering in their gentle touch. He pulled away first, pleased at seeing such a strong but tender desire in her eyes. He nipped playfully at her bottom lip and kissed her one last time, a quick but fierce union. She smiled, breathless, but happy.
Wild applause broke into the world that had been their own for a sacred moment in time, and when Jack turned, Sue followed suit, wondering at the sudden change of pace. The entire team was standing there in a group, watching them and clapping, cheering, smiling. They were not alone. Sue buried her head in Jack’s chest, too embarrassed for words. Overwhelming feelings surged through her and the last thing she wanted was for the team to tease and make fun of them, or her girlfriends to fawn over her. She wanted Jack, and only Jack. Sensing her discomfort, Jack lifted her chin and mouthed a few timeless words to her: words that warmed her heart at the very thought of them.
I love you.
And at that moment, the rest of the team faded away; she no longer cared that they were watching. Jack loved her! She mouthed the same words back to him with tears in her eyes, knowing they were simple enough for anyone to read. He smiled brilliantly and captured her mouth once again, joyous in his fervor as he pressed his lips to hers. But, he could not surpass Sue’s joy. They were equal, perfectly-matched, and ordained for each other. It could not have been more right.
*****
Knowing that the pair needed their space, when Jack went to kiss her again, she grabbed Myles’ hand and dragged him out onto the middle of the floor, ordering him to dance with her. He complied. Soon, each pair was dancing, enjoying the evening as couples, friends, and for some, lovers. Tara looked up at Myles and smiled, letting him know that she was enjoying herself, and that the past words spoken by his mother were forgotten. She signed ‘thank you’ to him, knowing now that he could understand it. She could see his smile brighten and feel his arms tighten around her as he pulled her into an embrace. She hugged him tightly, wondering at the emotions coursing through her. What was she feeling? And better yet, why? As she felt his lips touch her cheek ever so slightly, she decided that she didn’t want to figure out her feelings at that moment. She simply wanted to enjoy them, and maybe someday she’d have a real love to call her own. And maybe… just maybe, he was no more than a step away.
*****
A/N: The song I used here was “We Will Dance” by Stephen Curtis Chapman. Beautiful song!
I like the latter too!
Happy Valentine's
Happy Valentine's
I love Jack and Sue dancing with him singing for her!!!
glad myles stood up to elizabeth and got rid of her
so cute the dancing and jack singing to sue
glad the other couples/friends had fun too.
so cute the dancing and jack singing to sue
glad the other couples/friends had fun too.
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