Oh the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we've no place to go
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

It doesn't show signs of stopping
And I've bought some corn for popping
The lights are turned way down low
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

When we finally kiss goodnight
How I'll hate going out in the storm!
But if you'll really hold me tight
All the way home I'll be warm

The fire is slowly dying
And, my dear, we're still goodbying
But as long as you love me so
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!


The tinny broadcast of the popular carol was certainly appropriate for their own weather forecast. It didn’t show signs of stopping. Traffic was snarled, planes grounded and trains overcrowded as potential travelers were forced to put their holidays on hold. There was no doubt; they wouldn’t be getting through tonight. They’d have to make the best of it here and try again in the morning. Turning to his companion he smiled apologetically and said, “Well, I guess there are worse places we could be spending the night, right? You must have some last minute shopping to get out of the way.” The two of them stepped out of the restaurant, leaving the Christmas carol behind, along with the crowd that had gathered inside.

“Not really,” Sue replied. Her eyes stung with tears at the thought of not being able to get home for the holidays, but with all flights being grounded and the roads to the airport impassable, it was clear that wasn’t going to happen today. Tomorrow was Christmas Eve, and she could only hope that things would be looking up by then. Jack was also supposed to be flying home to spend Christmas with his family, and since their flights had been within an hour of each other, he’d offered her a ride to the airport. They’d left with plenty of time to spare, so they’d ended up stopping at a restaurant on the way to have a late lunch. Now, they were stranded. During their leisurely meal, they’d noticed the snowfall getting heavier and heavier, and by the time they were ready to leave, the restaurant had been abuzz with news of the storm.

“We’ll walk around and find someplace to stay for the night,” Jack assured her. “We can call your parents and mine, tell them what’s going on, and then tomorrow I’m sure we’ll be able to find flights home.”

“Hopefully,” she said quietly, turning to gaze toward a brightly lit nativity scene outside a nearby church, and Jack could see how upset she was at the prospect of being stuck in DC for Christmas.

Reaching for her hand, he smiled at her expression of surprise, but he kept holding on. “At least we’re in this together…there isn’t anyone else I’d rather be stranded with.”

Sue’s heart skipped a beat at his expression, but looking over at Levi playing near them in the snow, she couldn’t resist having a little bit of fun at his expense. “I agree, Jack, and having you along us is something I can tolerate pretty easily, too.”

“Hey!” His wounded expression made her laugh, and she was caught off guard when he let go of her hand and reached for a handful of snow, his eyes gleaming wickedly as he approached her with it.

“And just what do you intend to do with that?” she asked, taking a few steps backwards.

“I’m sure I can think of something.”

“Don’t forget that I grew up with three older brothers,” Sue reminded him. “I can hold my own in a snowball fight.”

“Is that a challenge?” he asked, raising his eyebrows as he grinned.

“Maybe we should find a place to stay before we play in the snow?” Sue suggested, her tone amused as she took in this more playful side of Jack.

Jack didn’t answer for a moment, suddenly distracted by the image of Sue dodging snowballs and giving back as good as she got. She would tackle him to the ground, but instead of giving him a face washing, like his brother had been so fond of doing when they were children, she’d lean down, her hair fanning around his face as her lips met his…

The sound of her voice pulled him back into the present, and he felt heat surge through his body as he looked into her eyes, suddenly glad that she couldn’t read his thoughts like she could read his lips. “Jack, I just asked you if you knew of anyplace we could stay.”

“Sorry. Actually, there are a few places we might stay. There are a couple of small hotels, but there are also some bed and breakfasts we could try.”

“That might be nice,” Sue replied. “I’ve never stayed in one before.” She felt her cheeks warm at the prospect of staying at one with Jack, and she was suddenly glad for the cool air, knowing he wouldn’t attribute her rosy cheeks to her blush.

“Let’s go check them out, and once we find one we can come back for our bags.”

“Okay,” Sue agreed. “Come on, Levi,” she told the dog. He immediately came over to her and allowed her to put his leash back on. As they walked through the falling snow, Sue felt herself growing less anxious about getting home the next day. She knew that there was nothing she could do about it now, so she decided she might as well enjoy herself. The little town they’d stopped in was actually very quaint, and right now, with the snow falling and the Christmas lights twinkling, it was a beautiful sight. It had been Jack’s idea to stop there, as he’d visited several times in the past, and he’d been sure that Sue would love it, as well as the little town surrounding it. She had to admit that he was right.

Glancing over at Jack, he caught her eye and smiled, offering her his arm. She took it, and for a moment, she could almost let herself imagine that they were here for a romantic getaway rather than simply being stranded because of a snowstorm. But she was sure that was a dream that would never come true. It had been months now, since she’d made her decision to turn down the job offer in New York so that she could stay in DC, and their relationship had stayed the same. Comfortable and familiar, yes, but it was certainly not romantic. She let out an unconscious sigh, and Jack put his hand over hers, giving it a squeeze.

“It’s going to be okay, Sue. I’ll do everything possible to make sure you get on that plane tomorrow.”

“I know, Jack, and I appreciate it. And now that we’re here, we might as well make the best of it, right?” She smiled at him, thinking that at least she was here with him, and not stuck back in her empty apartment, since Lucy had already gone home to be with her family. It was also much better than being stranded in an airport overnight, which could have happened if they’d have just kept driving. Spending time alone with Jack when they didn’t have any work to do was not a common occurrence, but it looked like they were about to get plenty of it. Knowing that God worked in mysterious ways, Sue decided that the best thing to do was to relax and enjoy herself instead of worrying about things that were beyond her control.

Hummm....what could happen in a beautiful bed and breakfast with a blizzard outside? I'm sure you will use your imagination to come up with something Alexandria. I think it's time to come clean about some certain feelings...dont' you? Welcome to the board! It's always nice to add another fantastic author to the site!

Hey! Wow - what a great start! Welcome to the board, and to the challenge! Grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and settling in for a good read!! I love bed and breakfasts... let's hope Jack and Sue do too!!

I especially love bed and breakfasts where only one room is left available did I say that out loud?!
Hey great start -- love your writing style and can't wait for more. Think I'll make some hot cococa and sneak some of those Christmas cookies that have been put away in the freezer so they won't get eaten before Christmas. 'Course if you post more than I would be distracted and my cookies might survive the weekend.

kav

Wow! Thanks for the warm welcome, everyone.

Even though he’d been a bit concerned they would have trouble finding an available bed and breakfast, unsure as to whether or not other people would be stranded by the snow, they had found space in the first one they had happened upon. A beautiful little house built in the 1800s, it had been renovated, while still preserving its history. Run by an older couple, the Cozy Pillow Bed and Breakfast had beautiful, antique-furnished rooms, each equipped with a fireplace. Sue’s eyes had lit up when she’d seen the house, and Jack couldn’t help but be glad that if he’d had to get them stranded, it was in a place as nice as this one. He’d reminded himself that they wouldn’t have been able to fly out regardless of whether they’d made it to the airport or not, so at least they’d be able to enjoy some luxury while they waited to see what the weather would do.

They’d brought their things from the car, and after they’d called their families, they’d decided to bundle up and go for a walk outside. It was starting to get dark, so the snowball fight Jack had envisioned probably wasn’t going to happen, but a walk through the town to look at Christmas lights with Sue didn’t sound like a bad evening to him. As he waited for her in the elegant sitting room, he thought back over the past few months, since Sue had decided to stay in DC. He knew he’d really missed the ball as far as their relationship was concerned. It wasn’t that he hadn’t intended to talk to Sue about his feelings for her---he had. But before he knew it, days had turned into weeks, and weeks to months. No time seemed to be the right time, and work often got in the way. Though that seemed like a weak excuse even to him, he didn’t have any other. Still, he kept reminding himself that one of these days someone else would come along, and suddenly Sue wouldn’t be there anymore like she always was. Glancing into the crackling fire, Jack realized that this could be just the right setting and opportunity to make some changes. Without the distraction of work, not to mention all of the other people in their lives, there would be ample time to talk. He continued to look into the fire, feeling hypnotized by the flames as he thought about how he might broach the subject with her. Unfortunately, the only tactic that came to mind was simply pulling her into his arms and letting his kiss do the talking, but he knew that he had to do better than that. Talk first, kiss later, he thought to himself with a grin.

As Sue caught sight of him sitting near the fire with a soft smile on his lips, she felt her heart flutter. That happened too often where Jack was concerned, not to mention the feeling she got in the pit of her stomach whenever he entered into her line of vision. Smiling to herself as she studied him, she couldn’t help but allow herself the luxury of admiring him when he wasn’t aware of her presence. Those eyes and those lips had been the subject of too many daydreams, and Sue shook her head, trying not to think about that. What she wished she had with Jack, compared to the reality of their relationship was never a good thing to dwell on. Yet, even though she was grateful for his friendship and knew that she was lucky to have him in her life, she couldn’t help but want more sometimes. Finally he turned to look at her, and his smile broadened as his eyes met hers. “You ready to face the wrath of winter?” he asked her, standing up as he spoke. Levi, who had been standing patiently beside Sue as she’d been watching Jack, began to wag his tail and pant eagerly. “I guess we know how Levi feels about our plans to go back out there,” he said, giving the dog an affectionate rub.

“I’m definitely ready,” Sue answered with a smile. “If you are, that is?” Her tone and gaze were playfully challenging, and she loved his expression as he took it all in.

“I can handle a bit of cold, especially knowing that we’ve got a nice fireplace to warm up in front of when we get back.”

Not expecting that sort of response, Sue felt a fair amount of heat just thinking about the possibility of warming up in front of the fire with Jack later, and suddenly felt at a loss for words. Letting Levi lead the way, she headed for the door, Jack quickly catching up and falling into step beside her. He reached the door first and held it open for her. Smiling at him, she walked outside, glad to see that the snow wasn’t falling quite so heavily. It really was a beautiful night, and as they walked leisurely down the snow-covered sidewalk, Sue realized that right now, there was no place in the world she’d rather be than right there with him.

Blissful sigh -- can I somehow just step into this story for just a little while? You write it so beautifully I can see everything -- I even think I smell the crackling fire... uh oh better go check on dinner.

kav

Oh dear... Kav, please tell me you aren't burning dinner again...

Well, I got my hot chocolate (and I admit, it's laced with something yummy!) just in time for another post! Can it get any better than this?!? I am loving this story!

Would that be a candy cane?

It's much better than a candy cane, my dear... it's - shhhhhhh, don't tell anyone - Bailey's! Yum! :drink:

sigh...I love hot chocolate and Bailey's... but, alas...it's very early in
the morning right now...way too early...

alexandra, such wonderful posts. I'm finding myself all fuzzy
just from reading the scenario...great job!!

Where have you been hiding, Alexandra? This story is fantastic - and I want more......soon! Ooooo - I've got shivers thinking about what is to come - and that's something considering how hot it is outside!

Can't wait!

Starting with this section, there will be some ASL here and there. I don't know how to gloss properly, so I'll just be putting the signed words in italics, like I've seen other writers do. Thanks for all of the sweet comments!

Thank you, Sue signed, as Jack handed her a cup of hot chocolate. After walking around to look at the many brilliant light displays the town had to offer, they were definitely starting to feel the cold, so Jack had offered to buy something warm to drink for the walk back. Sue took a sip and closed her eyes for a moment to savour the rich flavor of the chocolate. When she opened them again, Jack was watching her with a strange expression on his face, almost wistful. “How is it?”

“It’s wonderful!” she replied as they began walking again. She stole a glance at him as they continued to walk in silence, but he was looking at something across the street. “Jack, are you okay?” she asked him. He looked back at her, appearing surprised by the question, but he’d been unusually quiet during their walk and she had to wonder.

“Better than okay,” he assured her with a smile. “Why do you ask?”

“You’ve been a bit quiet,” she replied.

“I’m sorry. I guess I’ve just been distracted by all the lights.”

“It’s okay,” she said lightly. “We both have.” Feeling embarrassed for making something out of nothing, Sue hoped that Jack would just let the subject drop and was relieved when he did. She was disappointed that they hadn’t talked more, even though she had no clue exactly what it was they should have been talking about. There wasn’t any way that she would ever gather the courage to bring up what was really on her mind, and it didn’t appear that Jack was going to either. Their relationship was what it was, and she was just going to have to accept that once and for all, or else she would drive herself mad.

Jack didn’t know what to say in response to Sue’s comment. It was true that he had been quieter than normal, but it wasn’t because he didn’t want to talk to her. He’d simply been enjoying watching her looking at all there was to see that he hadn’t realized there hadn’t been much talking. It pained him to think that she was concerned he might not be having a good time when it was the furthest thing from the truth. Her company was more than enough for him, but he knew that was part of the whole problem---she needed more, and he had to figure out a way to give it to her. By the time they’d arrived back at the Cozy Pillow, he was feeling thoroughly frustrated and annoyed with himself for his lack of initiative. Gently touching her arm after they’d walked inside, he signed to her, asking her if she was hungry for some dinner.

“I could eat,” she said with a nod.

“Okay. Why don’t I meet you in your room in about fifteen minutes?”

“That would be great,” she replied, and her smile warmed him, giving him some hope as far as the rest of the evening was concerned. After Jack promised Levi that he would arrange some dinner for him, too, they parted company, and Sue walked up the stairs to her room, wondering what Jack had up his sleeve. As they’d walked in from the cold, he’d suddenly looked like a man with a plan, but she reminded herself not to have any expectations. If she didn’t have any, maybe she wouldn’t be left feeling so disappointed when nothing happened.

Oooo - I feel it in the air...something good is about to happen....yes??????

And you know...it's really selfish of Jack and Sue to be in separate rooms - seeing as how there is a big storm and people are stranded. If they shared a room, there would be one left for another deserving couple or family.

I so love Jack in a 'man with a plan' mode!!!
kav

Sue was sitting on her bed reading a book when Levi put a gentle paw on her leg. Assuming Jack was at the door, Sue went to answer it, feeling nervous and happy at the same time. This was a more intimate setting than she’d ever been in with Jack, and she wasn’t sure what to expect. Opening the door with a smile on her face, she was surprised to see Ellen, who owned and operated the Cozy Pillow with her husband, Paul. She smiled kindly at Sue and presented her with a basket containing a bottle of wine, two glasses and a few other items. “I hope you’re enjoying your stay so far! Dinner will be ready soon.”

“Thank you,” Sue said, accepting the basket with a smile. “You have a wonderful place here, and I have no complaints so far. I’m just glad you’re open over the holidays!”

“We didn’t used to be, but Christmas is usually pretty quiet for us, so it’s actually nice to have the company,” Ellen explained, a sad look coming into her eyes for a moment. It was gone almost as quickly as it had appeared, and her smile brightened. “Well, I just wanted to bring something for you and your young man to enjoy tonight, and I’ll see you at dinner!”

“Thanks again, Ellen,” Sue told her, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. She wanted to correct the older woman, who seemed to have the wrong impression of her and Jack’s relationship, but for once she decided not to worry about explaining. Besides, after tomorrow, she probably wouldn’t ever see her again. When Ellen left, Sue closed the door, setting the basket on the bureau as she took in her surroundings again. With the beautiful furniture and a fire burning in the hearth, it certainly was a romantic setting, and that fact made her heart pick up speed whenever she remembered who she was there with. Imagining Lucy’s reaction when they were both back at home after Christmas and Sue filled her in on what had happened, she had to smile. Even if nothing ever happened with her and Jack, Lucy would probably always be a staunch supporter of their relationship, as she had been from the very beginning. For the most part, she left it alone, knowing that Sue was sensitive about it, but from time to time, she let her know that she still thought it was wrong for her and Jack to be apart. Sometimes she was tempted to tell Lucy to share those thoughts with Jack instead of her, but she never did. Part of her was afraid that the reason Jack had never made a move was because he really didn’t feel the same way, and that she had imagined all of the lingering looks and those moments when she was sure there was something deeper than friendship in his feelings.

“Here I go again,” Sue said out loud. Levi perked up from where he was laying nearby, and Sue sat down on the floor next to him, leaning against the side of the bed as she ran her fingers through his fur. “I keep finding myself thinking about the very thing I promised myself I wouldn’t think about.” She sighed, and Levi looked up at her almost as though he understand what she meant. Smiling at him, she was patting his head fondly when he stood up suddenly, looking at her and then toward the door again. The butterflies that seemed to be her constant companions whenever Jack was around fluttered desperately in her stomach as she realized that he must be at the door. No matter what happened, she knew that her evening with him would be an enjoyable one, as it always was when they spent time together.

*Looks around curiously* Where's the rest? I think you stopped too soon. Jack was just getting to the door....

Yeah -- I definitely heard a knock...if Sue keeps Jack waiting some floozy might sail by and nab him. We wouldn't want that to happen, would we?

kav

“Hey,” he greeted her, the way he looked in his dark turtleneck and jeans taking her breath away. “Are you ready to eat?”

“Definitely,” she answered, stepping aside so that he could step through the door.

You look very nice, he signed, smiling with approval. He noted her modest smile, something that was trademark Sue. She really did look lovely, even more so than usual, and he hoped that by the time the evening was through, he’d have her believing it.

Thank you, she replied. So do you.

He grinned at her and looked around her room, spotting the basket with the wine. “I think you definitely got the better of the two rooms; mine didn’t come with wine,” he teased.

“Oh, Ellen actually brought that by a few minutes ago for us to share after dinner,” Sue explained quickly. Jack realized suddenly that she seemed more nervous than usual, and he was glad for the presence of the wine. A glass of wine definitely wouldn’t hurt either of them later.

“That was really nice of her.”

“Yes! I’m so glad we found this place. I’ll have to remember it for the future.”

“Definitely,” Jack agreed, imagining returning there many times in the future with Sue. Maybe it could become a sort of tradition. “Well, are you ready to go downstairs?”

“Sure,” she replied. Jack led the way to the door, and as she followed him, she couldn’t help but notice that there was something more determined about him tonight. Holding the door open for her, he motioned her and Levi through, and she met his eyes for a moment, the expression in them making her heart skip a beat. She might have been imagining things, but she had a funny feeling that she was in for a very interesting evening.

I really hope she's not imagining things. Go, Jack!!!

This is such a great story... I'm loving it!! *jp contemplates another cup of hot chocolate, but looks at the clock and decides bed is probably a more appropriate idea* Looking forward to more tomorrow!!

I love how you captured how Sue has built up walls to keep from getting hurt. I'm also loving determined Jack with a plan. I just hope he can make this Christmas merry and bright.

Love bed and breakfast places. So cozy and quaint. A good setting for your story, which is looking very lovely and well written. I look forward to seeing how this plays out.

Dinner turned out to be a rather intimate occasion on its own, and Sue wondered if Jack had perhaps made special arrangements for a candlelit dinner or if it was the norm at this bed and breakfast. She didn’t remember that detail from when they’d been told what was included with their rooms, but she wasn’t about to ask and ruin the moment either. The display of candles lighting the table gave her sufficient light to read Jack’s lips, and Sue was certain that must have taken a bit of planning on his part. Levi’s supper was set up in a corner of the room and he found it immediately, wasting no time in getting started on it.

“Be careful,” Sue warned Jack as he pulled out her chair for her. “He might get used to fine dining like this and then he’s going to expect it. You’re the one I’ll be coming after.”

“Not an entirely unpleasant prospect,” he retorted with a grin as he sat down across from her. Immediately feeling flustered and silently chiding herself for it, Sue was grateful for the appearance of Ellen and Paul. Greeting Jack and Sue pleasantly, the two of them set the covered trays they’d been carrying onto the table, and Sue realized that she was hungrier than she’d thought when Paul presented her with her meal. They each accepted a glass of wine to go with dinner, and then the older couple discreetly left them alone.

Glancing at Sue across the table, Jack hoped that he hadn’t gone overboard when he’d arranged for the romantic atmosphere. He and Sue had shared plenty of meals before, and he needed this one to be different and to also set the mood for the rest of their evening. If it wasn’t too late already, he wanted to sweep her off her feet and make this a Christmas she would never forget, not memorable because of the snowstorm, though. Instead, he wanted it to be remembered as the time when their relationship changed forever.

Oh, I'm liking this very, very much!!! Intimate dinner is very good!

*Flip settles back with a mug of hot cocoa* More? Please?

The potential here is just fluffilicious!

As they began to eat, it seemed to Jack that Sue started to relax a bit, and soon the two of them were talking as easily as they always had. The conversation stayed light and casual, and they alternated between signing and speaking so that there were fewer interruptions when it was time to take another bite. Sue’s eyes lit up as she spoke of the small nieces and nephew who would also be at her parents’ home for the holidays, and Jack suddenly wished he could be there to share that time with her. It surprised him, since he was also looking forward to seeing his own family, but he was finally starting to realize just how much of his heart this woman had captured. A fear he’d always had was that rather than deepening their friendship into something more by telling her how he felt about her, he would somehow manage to ruin it forever, but it was time to admit these feelings to himself and to her and not worry about how things might turn out. Even though Sue had never made a move either, when he remembered the dozens of times that he was sure he’d seen a silent invitation in her eyes, he felt convinced that she felt the same way as him. And he knew there was only one way to find out for sure.

Waiting for Sue to finish what she was saying, he picked up his glass of wine and raised it to her. “To making the most out of being stranded in a snowstorm,” he said with a wink.

Sue smiled at him, picking up her own glass. “I’ll drink to that,” she replied.

Gazes locking, they clinked glasses before each taking a sip. “I know you’d rather be with your family right now, but I have to admit that I kind of like having you all to myself here,” Jack admitted, and Sue felt a blush rise in her cheeks. “No major distractions or interruptions and no place to go.”

“You’re right. It is nice,” Sue agreed, taking another, longer sip of wine. The feeling of nervousness had returned to her stomach and she was pretty sure she was finished eating for now. “It’s still snowing,” she observed, looking out the window. “What happens if we aren’t able to fly out tomorrow?”

Aware that Sue seemed to be changing the subject, Jack decided to go with it for now, knowing that there would be time later to steer the conversation to where he wanted. “Why don’t we worry about that if and when we have to? Let’s just enjoy tonight, okay?”

“Good idea.” Sue wished that she could just let everything else slip away and focus on the man across from her. After all, like he had pointed out, they had no other place to go. Still, for some reason she was almost afraid of what was to happen next. Not because she didn’t want to find out, but she just wasn’t sure what to do when the time came. Paul arrived to take away their plates, while Ellen presented them each with a slice of homemade pie, and Sue decided that maybe it was time for a diversion. At the very least, it might help her to relax a bit. “Thank you for the wonderful dinner and the pie. Would you two like to join us for dessert?” she asked them.

Ellen and Paul exchanged a slightly surprised look while Jack did his best not to appear as taken aback as he felt. He could just imagine what it would be like having the other couple sitting down with them. While they seemed like very nice people, he wasn’t sure how he’d be able to stand making conversation with them when all he wanted was to be alone with Sue. “That’s very kind of you, but we’ve already eaten,” Ellen assured Sue.

“Besides, I’m sure you two would rather be alone,” Paul added with a wink at Jack. Sue smiled at them both and watched as they politely left the room, before turning to meet Jack’s gaze. It was almost as though he could read her thoughts as his hand reached over to cover hers as it rested on the table beside her plate.

You okay? he signed with his other hand, his eyes looking dark as coal in the candlelight.

“I am,” she replied. “It’s just been kind of an emotional day, I guess.”

“So tonight we can just relax,” Jack told her. “What do you say we take this pie upstairs and drink some of that wine?”

Sue nodded, forcing herself to smile, hoping that it didn’t reveal her nervousness. As they made their way upstairs, she reminded herself that this was Jack. He wasn’t going to do anything to make her uncomfortable, and wasn’t this what she had always wanted? So many times she had ached for him to be this attentive to her, and now that it was happening, she couldn’t help but think that maybe she wasn’t ready. Looking into his smiling face as they entered her room, she prayed for guidance as she willingly stepped into uncharted territory.

Ooooooo *shiver*

Wasn't ready??
(Bell huffs with frustration )
Sue, you were ready since the moment you laid eyes on him!!

Lovely sweet story. Loving every minute of it.

Ok Sue, take big deep breaths and go with the flo. :whistle: Get all nice and romantic next to the fire and tell him how you feel. You'll be nicely surprised.

Karen

Sitting down on the cozy little couch in front of the fireplace, Sue held her hands in front of the fire, feeling the heat warm them, while Jack poured them each another glass of wine. Levi curled up at her feet, and she closed her eyes for a moment, trying to relax and give herself over to whatever was in store. She opened her eyes to see Jack approaching with the wine, and she accepted her glass from him, feeling his fingers brush hers, lingering for a little longer than necessary before sitting down next to her.

Watching her as she gazed into the flames, her eyes dark and luminous and her blonde hair cascading about her shoulders, Jack felt overwhelmed by her beauty. Seeing her like this suddenly washed away all of his doubt, giving him the courage to say what needed to be said. Reaching over to place a hand on hers, he smiled when she looked over at him. “Now who’s the quiet one?” he asked gently, his eyes searching hers.

“I’m sorry,” she said softly. “Guess I’m not much company tonight.” She just hadn’t known what to say to him, and was suddenly so afraid of the wrong words coming out.

“I wouldn’t want to be in anyone else’s company right now,” Jack assured her. “If I had my way, you and I would never have to be apart.”

Sue’s eyes widened as he spoke, and she was certain she couldn’t have read him correctly. “I don’t think I got that, Jack.”

“Actually, I think you did,” he replied. “I just wish it hadn’t taken being stranded in a snowstorm to realize how important it is that I tell you.”

Sue stared at him, suddenly wondering if this was some strange dream. Tell me what? she signed, not trusting her voice.

I'm with Restie AND Soapy here: it IS absolutely amazing. The whole atmosphere you are picturing is so romantic! Sue's insecurity is trying to take over, but I'm sure it doesn't stand a chance against Jack's determined words that HE SIMPLY HAS TO SAY!!!!!!

Great story Alexandra, where have you been hiding all this time?!?!?!?!

I cannot believe you stopped there


Jack ... whatever you say ... don't backpedal ... please !!!!

Love the possibilities !!!!

“You and I have been friends for years,” he began, putting down his wine so that he could take her free hand in both of his. “And that’s been enough for a long time. Well, maybe it hasn’t, but I let it be enough. I don’t know if this is the right time or if there will ever be a right time, but I need you to know how much I care about you, Sue.” The look on her face told him that he’d made the right decision, and he felt almost like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.

“I care about you, too,” Sue said softly. His eyes were so genuine and full of emotion, and she felt her own eyes fill with unshed tears, the moment overwhelming her.

“I’m sorry I haven’t told you this before, but I don’t think I could offer any excuses that would be worth going into,” he admitted, reaching over to brush away a tear that had escaped down her cheek.

“Please don’t apologize,” Sue said. “We’re both guilty of putting things off.”

“But I kept letting work and other things get in the way, and I shouldn’t have.”

“Well, we’re here now,” Sue pointed out. “And there’s no work to be done.”

“Let’s not waste any more time then, okay?” Sue nodded and allowed him to take her wine, placing it on the table next to his own. Her stomach did flip-flops and her pulse quickened as he inched closer to her, gently cupping her face in his hands. “I love you, and I have for so long,” he told her, and more tears spilled onto her cheeks. Still holding her face in his hands, he leaned in, placing gentle kisses to wipe away the tears.

Pulling her hands out of his, Sue didn’t even try to speak as he released his gentle hold, watching her with eyes that begged for her to lose herself in them. Forcing her hands to steady as she formed the signs, she smiled at the look of joy that appeared on his face. Reaching for her again, he ran his hands through the softness of her hair as he pulled her to him, their lips meeting in a tender kiss that told them both even more than words ever could.

WOW!!!! I just started this story today and it's absolutely amazing! You are a wonderful writer and you are doing such a great job with the Jack/Sue warm fuzzies!!! Bravo! Keep it coming!!!

Finally - somebody who isn't hanging us off the side of a cliff! (Looks at Kav and Matalyn)

Thank you, Alexandra. THAT was a beautiful post, simply wonderful. Blissful, even!

Jack and Sue are alone, in front of a fire, the weather outside is frightful.......Woot!

And you do know we expect more stories from you? You've been tagged a J/S fan - and we're desperately in need of more writers to feed our insatiable (sp?) need for more!

Simply put....that was just lovely! That was one of the most beautiful and realistic scenes I've read of Jack telling Sue is true feelings. I just loved it. Can't wait to see what else you have in store.

and I agree with Flip....thanks for giving us J/S fans a fantastic scene! You do know how we crave the warm fuzzies!!!!

That was so romantic and sincere. There conversation was so realistic and each movement so believable. Great work!

Thanks for the great comments!! One more before bed...

Watching the flames lick the wood in the fireplace, Sue wondered for a moment if she really was dreaming, and then, remembering the kisses they had shared earlier and feeling the warmth of Jack’s embrace surround her now, she knew there was no way this could be anything other than reality. Thinking about the way he’d made her feel, she shivered, and Jack leaned down to kiss the top of her head before adjusting so she could see his lips. “You cold?” he asked.

“No,” she replied. “I’m nice and warm.”

“I’m glad.” Jack was anything but cold. Having her this close to him, he felt as though he might burst into flames. “So, what do you and your family usually do on Christmas Eve?” Jack asked her, trying to distract his thoughts from going down a path neither of them was ready to follow.

“Well…we drink eggnog and sing Christmas carols, usually bake some cookies with the kids so that they have something to leave out for Santa Claus,” she answered with a smile.

“Sing carols, huh? Do you play the piano?”

“Usually my mom asks me to, yes.” Sue’s mother was immensely proud of her daughter’s piano playing talent and didn’t waste an opportunity to show it off, even if just to close family. “And if the weather allows, we go to midnight mass. How about you and your family?”

“We drink eggnog, too, but usually we put rum in it,” he told her with a grin. “Sometimes we’ll watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and laugh like idiots.”

“Really?” she asked, amazed at how different their two families sounded.

“Yup. My mom will sit there and roll her eyes at us, but we have a great time, and so does she.”

“It sounds nice,” she told him.

“It is, but someday I wouldn’t mind trying something different.” Her stomach tightened at the look in his eyes as he said the words, and she reached up, running her hands through his hair as she smiled softly at him. Leaning forward, she closed the distance between them, loving the feel of his lips against hers and his hands against her back, pulling her body closer to his. His tongue skimmed her lips and she opened to him, letting out a soft sigh as their kiss deepened, losing herself in the feelings coursing through her body.

Just like their other kisses, this one started out as a tiny spark and quickly escalated to a fire ready to burn out of control, and Jack knew that he had to douse the flames soon before they were both consumed by them. The fact that there was a bed sitting only a few feet away like an unspoken invitation wasn’t making it any easier for him to reign himself in, but it was a temptation that he was by no means about to give in to. Letting his hands travel under her sweater, tracing lazy circles on her back, he slowed his kisses and allowed Sue to take the lead. While her responses to his first kiss had started out shy and uncertain, it hadn’t taken her long to become bolder, and her passionate ministrations, combined with the feel of her soft curves pressed against him soon became more than he could bear. Gently breaking the kiss, gaining a small sound of protest from Sue, Jack smiled at her, taking in her dishevelled appearance. He felt a strange sense of accomplishment as he studied her swollen lips, unkempt hair and the passionate look in her eyes as she gazed back at him. “We should probably call it a night,” he said, reaching over to gently stroke her cheek.

“I guess you’re right,” she agreed softly, placing her hand on top of his. Neither made a move to get up, and they both chuckled softly. “Maybe we should finish our wine first,” she suggested, in no hurry to leave the warm comfort of his arms. Knowing why Jack had slammed on the brakes, she also knew how easy it would be to get carried away and appreciated him taking control of the situation. She trusted him implicitly, and it was a wonderful feeling.

“Okay,” Jack agreed. “But then I should go. We’ll have to get up early tomorrow and start looking into flights.”

“Yes,” Sue said, sipping her wine and settling back into his embrace. It was funny how much had changed in so little time. While she still very much wanted to be with her family for Christmas, parting company with Jack in the airport the next day was something she didn’t even want to contemplate. Reminding herself that it was completely out of her control, just as being stranded in the first place had been, she comforted herself with the knowledge that the situation was in God’s hands. Feeling thankful and blessed that things had worked out this way, she knew she’d be able to handle whatever came her way tomorrow.

let's see...
warm...check
a glass of wine...check
madly in love...check

but the last sentence... I won't even go there (I'm not paranoid...I'm not paranoid...)

(Bell walks away, singing a happy tune)

Great job, Alexandra!!

Those last couple of posts were just beautiful. You captured the moment perfectly.

I'm with everyone else here, we'll be you for more J/S stories in the future. A talent like yours should be shared.

Can't wait to see where this goes. Great job.

Karen

Not to be selfish or anything, but I hope they wake up to closed airports - and can go ahead and begin what will be future traditions in their won family!

Flip, I was thinking the same thing or at least no flights out for one of them so they're forced to go home with the other.

Beautiful job, Alexandra. I loved it.

That was just as beautiful to wake up to as it was to fall asleep to. Wonderful, wonderful scene, Alexandra!!!

Waking up to Levi pawing gently at her, Sue looked around, feeling disoriented for a moment until she realized where she was. A smile came to her lips as she remembered the previous day’s events, and she reached over to turn off her alarm clock. Stepping out of bed, she grabbed her robe from a nearby chair and wrapped it snugly around herself as she walked to the window. Looking out, she saw that the snow had finally stopped and wondered what that would mean for their travel plans. Eager to get downstairs to meet Jack for breakfast, Sue hurriedly showered and dressed, taking some extra care with her hair and makeup. When she was satisfied with her appearance, she and Levi made their way downstairs to the dining room, where she found Jack talking animatedly to Ellen and Paul.

“Good morning,” he greeted her warmly, standing up as she entered the room. Ellen and Paul excused themselves to go and finish up breakfast, leaving them alone in the room. Wasting no time, Jack put his arms around her, leaning down to greet her properly as his lips captured hers in a long kiss. When they parted, Sue gave him a happy smile.

“Good morning to you, too,” she said breathlessly. Tempted to kiss her again, Jack knew that their breakfast would be arriving at any moment, and he figured it would probably be better if they took their seats, the table safely between them.

“I’m sure you noticed that it isn’t snowing anymore,” he told her after they’d sat down. Sue nodded. “I called the airline and re-booked our tickets.”

“Great!” Sue exclaimed, but she was already feeling empty at the prospect of having to say goodbye at the airport. Seeing a similar expression in Jack’s eyes, she reached for his hand across the table. “What time do our flights leave?”

“Mine leaves first, at one-thirty, and yours leaves at quarter to three. We’ll have to head out in a couple of hours, though, because the roads still aren’t very good.”

“Okay.” Throughout breakfast, they said little, each lost in their thoughts. It was Christmas Eve, and instead of looking forward to seeing his family, Jack felt completely preoccupied with thoughts of saying goodbye to Sue. The thought of parting with her so quickly didn’t sit well with him, and he knew that the next time they saw each other would probably be at work right after they returned home. He couldn’t help but wonder how things would be then, and he was sure she was probably feeling the same way. Their time here had been so special, but what would it be like when they were back in familiar territory with everyday distractions to deal with once again? Thinking of the brightly wrapped present tucked away in his luggage for Sue, Jack realized that it just wasn’t enough now. He needed to find something that would give her no doubt as to his intentions, something for her to look at when they weren’t together and assure her that what had happened here was lasting. Hurrying through the rest of his meal, Jack told Sue he had to run an errand, and with a quick kiss, he was gone.

Looking down at Levi in confusion, Sue wondered if she’d done something wrong. Instead of spending as much of their morning with her as possible, he’d rushed from the room as though he couldn’t wait to get away from her. Telling herself she was just being paranoid, Sue went upstairs to her room to pack and get ready to go, hoping that Jack would return soon.

(to the tune of Be Our Guest)

Paranoia, paranoia, we don't need no parnoia
Got plenty of warm fuzzies and they surely will not bore ya
He's gone out to find a ring
Or at least that is the thing
That I think he's gone a searching
So's to leave her heart a lurching
Sip....by....sip
Kiss...by...kiss
J/S'ers dream of wedded bliss
Cuz when comes to fuzzies, it's their fave
So Alex, come back here
And make a post appear
Don't mean to bore ya
Or annoy ya
We emplore ya
No... more... pa...ra....noiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....

First of all, Alexandra, WELCOME!!

Secondly, I just read your story so far and it is amazing!!! I am also a J/S fan and I loved how you wrote Jack and Sue!! You have made it so true to character that I can see this happening!! You have me melting all over the place!!

I love the warm fuzzies and can't wait to see what Jack is going to give Sue!!

Thanks for sharing your wonderful talent with us! I look forward to many more J/S stories from you!!!

Joy

Thanks for all of the wonderful replies!! Here's the next part.

As she waited in the sitting room for Jack to return, Sue wondered if maybe he thought they’d made a mistake the day before. It could have been the wine and the atmosphere, exaggerating his feelings and making him do and say things that he normally wouldn’t. Shaking her head, Sue forced the thoughts from her mind. His kiss that morning definitely hadn’t been an indication that he was unsure of his feelings. Maybe he’d had a last-minute gift to buy that he’d only just remembered. It would be just like a man to do that; she remembered many past Christmas Eves when her father would be wracking his brain to try and figure out what to get her mother. It had always amused her, and she’d often ended up coming to his rescue and braving the crowds to help him pick something out. But if it was a last-minute gift that had sent Jack out into the cold, she wondered why he hadn’t at least asked her to go along with him. Levi reached up to touch her leg and Sue looked up to see Ellen smiling kindly at her. “Guess you’ll be leaving us soon,” she said as she sat down in a chair near Sue’s.

Sue nodded. “Yes. Though I’d love to come back here sometime—you’ve got a lovely home.”

“That’s kind of you. You and Jack are welcome back anytime,” Ellen said with a smile.

“Oh…I’m not sure if we’ll come back together, but I’ll definitely remember this place.” Ellen frowned, and Sue hastened to explain. “Jack and I are just friends…we work together. We were just sharing a ride to the airport.”

“I’m sorry, my dear,” Ellen apologized. “I’d just assumed that there was something more.”

“Well, there is,” Sue admitted, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. “But I’m just not sure how it will end up.”

“We can never be sure of that. You just have to learn to go with the flow and trust that it’ll work out in the end.”

“I know. Hard to do sometimes, but I know. We’ve known each other for three years, Jack and I. And it’s taken us this long to even admit how we feel.” Sue couldn’t believe she was blurting this out to a complete stranger, but it did feel good to get it out.

Ellen nodded with understanding. “It took Paul nearly two years to ask me out on a date,” she told her. “Then another two before there was a marriage proposal. My sisters used to tease me over the fact that once we were engaged, we should have eloped, because we threw together a big wedding in just four weeks.”

“Wow!” Sue exclaimed. “That must have been stressful.”

“Oh yes,” Ellen assured her. “But it was all worth it in the end. And we’re happy, though our life hasn’t been without problems, of course. When we discovered we couldn’t have children, Paul blamed himself, thinking that if we’d only been married sooner, perhaps we would have been successful. But over the years, we’ve both learned not to regret the past. We can’t change anything, so we just concentrate on enjoying each other now.”

“That’s a good thing to remember,” Sue said with a smile. Ellen looked to the doorway and Sue followed her gaze to find Jack standing there, his cheeks, ears and nose were tinged with pink from the cold. The way he looked at her when her gaze met his chased all of her doubts away.

Ellen touched her hand gently and said, “It was nice talking to you, Sue, and remember, I’d love to see you both again.”

“Thanks, Ellen,” Sue told her, smiling as the other woman left the room. She went to Jack, giving him a hug before he could say anything. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he hugged her back, and she closed her eyes, not caring where he’d been or why, just happy he was there with her now.

There goes Sue, doubting herself again! But I see Jack set her straight!

Great post, Alexandra, can't wait for more!!

Joy

I really liked Ellen in this scene... her gentle wisdom was just what Sue needed right then. And then, to have it confirmed in Jack's eyes. *sigh* Doesn't get much better than that!

Awesome Job, Alexandra!

Maybe they can come back for their honeymoon or make it a Christmas tradition every year.

“Sorry I took so long,” Jack apologized as they walked upstairs together, Levi leading the way. “I was trying to find the perfect gift for someone special.”

“I wondered,” Sue admitted. “So, did you find it?”

“Definitely. You all packed?”

“Yup.”

“I am, too, so I guess we should head out soon. I’ve got something for you, though, and I’d rather give it to you here than in the airport.”

“I’ve got something for you, too,” Sue told him with a shy smile. They’d been exchanging gifts since the first Christmas they’d known each other, but the first one would always be especially memorable, since they’d unknowingly purchased matching hockey jerseys for each other. “I’ll go get it and meet you in your room.”

“Sounds good,” Jack replied, stealing a quick kiss before he ducked into his room, leaving Sue to stand there for a moment with a smile on her face before heading for her own. Minutes later, she was knocking on his door, his gift in her hand, while Levi remained in her room, happily chewing on a rawhide bone Paul had given to him that morning. Jack opened the door within seconds, gesturing her inside. Reaching for her hand, he led her to the bed and presented her with the gift he’d brought with him from DC. Smiling as she sat down, she handed him the envelope in her hand. You first, he signed.

Jack watched her open it, satisfied with his choice when she looked up at him with a surprised smile. “I hadn’t realized you were paying such close attention,” she said, clutching the book of poetry against her chest.

“I always pay attention,” he replied, the look in his eyes making her blush. She remembered telling him about the book the day after a deaf poetry reading she’d been to, and not only had he gotten it for her, he’d managed to find a first edition.

“I love it,” she said, standing to give him a hug. “Now it’s your turn.” Sitting back down on the bed, Sue watched as he sat down next to her, opening the envelope. He grinned widely when he saw what was inside the Christmas card she’d given him.

“How did you know I wanted Capitals tickets?” he asked. It was no secret that hockey was his sport of choice, but he still enjoyed teasing her.

“Lucky guess,” she replied slyly. Jack laughed and leaned over to kiss her.

Thank you, he signed. “I could get used to this,” he added, playing with a strand of her long hair. Though he still had something else to give her, a sudden twinge of doubt had settled in his stomach, and he wondered for a moment if his timing would be okay. Looking into her beautiful brown eyes, he forced himself to push his doubts aside.

“What, getting gifts from me?” she asked playfully, but her blush told him that she knew what he meant.

“Maybe you need a hint.” Before she could respond, his lips captured hers again, one hand moving to caress the side of her face as he deepened the kiss.