that was wonderful kim but oh so sad
were levi was concerned although he watched from above
but was on at the wedding reception loved it
cant wait for more lin

Beautiful

You might want to keep a kleneex close by from now until the end of the story.

Jack held the chair for Sue as they finally sat down at a table to enjoy a bit of food before they left the reception. He smiled at Deanne and Helga as they placed the plates of food before he and Sue. It wasn’t until the sweet aroma floating off the plates reached his nostrils that he realized just how hungry he was. He had just loaded his fork with the first bite of food when Bobby stood and cleared his throat.

Bobby waited for the rumble of conversation to subside. As all eyes rested on him, he smiled broadly at the newlyweds. The happiness radiating from his best friend and the woman he had come to love as a sister warmed his heart. “Well, Sparky. I would just like to say that I think you set a new land speed record. You went from slower than molasses in January to Speed Racer in about 20 seconds. If that’s any indication of a newer, faster Jack Hudson, then I think we would all be better off buying you gift cards for Baby’s R Us instead of wedding gifts.” Bobby’s dimples deepened as Jack choke on his bite of food, causing Sue to have to pound his back. “Hold it Sparky. You need to chew your food before you swallow. I doubt Sue wants to spend her wedding night in the Emergency Room.” He chuckled as he watched Sue blush.

He flinched slightly as Tara pinched his side. He gazed down into eyes that were dancing with a warning flame. “Enough,” she hissed. He grinned his reply, watching a pretty pink glow creep across her cheeks. Turning his attention back to the people gathered in the social hall, he continued. “Seriously, Jack and Sue, I can’t think of two people who belong together more. You two have the kind of love that will last a lifetime and beyond. All the rest of us can do is pray that we will be blest with what you two share. I love you guys.” He sat down quickly, the tears beginning to trickle down his face. He felt Tara’s gentle hand on his. As he turned his watery gaze to her, he saw his tears reflected in her eyes. He knew as he gazed at her she was…An answered prayer.

D rose from his seat as Bobby sat down. “I don’t think I will be as eloquent as Bobby, but I would like to offer you my heartfelt congratulations. Every one of us could see that you two were meant to be together. I just wish you had informed me of your plans for this evening, Jack. I guess, as punishment, you will have to postpone your honeymoon.”

“The honeymoon,” Jack said as D watched him slap his forehead. “I knew I was forgetting something. D, is it too late to request…”

D held up his hand to stop Jack. “It has already been taken care of. You and Sue have the next ten days off. But, your vacation does not start until after the project I have been working on is complete.” D lowered his eyes for a moment, steadying the emotions so they would not reflect in his voice.

When he raised his eyes to meet Sue’s unwavering gaze, he felt the rush of tears return. “I have arranged…” he paused for a moment as his voice broke. He cleared his throat and swallowed hard, struggling to continue. “I placed a special request with the Assistant Director a few weeks ago. I have arranged for a memorial service for Levi tomorrow morning at ten.” D let the tears flow down his cheeks, unhindered. “I requested and have received permission to place a photo of Levi alongside the other fallen heroes of the Bureau. He was a beloved member of our team who gave his life in the line of duty. He deserves this honor and it was my privilege to obtain it for him. So I would appreciate if you two would wait until after the service to leave on your honeymoon trip.”

Jack pulled a trembling Sue into his arms. He knew she would not be able to speak as the emotion of D’s announcement washed over the team. His bottom lip trembled as he whispered, “We’ll be there, D.”

More later
Kim

Tissues were definitely needed for D's speech but as for Bobby's

So the morning will bring a service for Levi in the Memorial Room. How fitting.

so sad but levi deserves the memoriel service he was well loved
by one and all but loved bobbys remark
cant wait for the next post kim lin

I'm stocking up on Kleenex now for the memorial service...

Em

bobby you are such a nut ...but a very good friend

and as for D that was so nice and... i'm ready for the memorial service tissues at my side

I think its sweet of the Assistant Director to let Levi stand among the other fallen heroes and friends in the Bureau.

Jack watched his wife as the last morsel of food disappeared from her plate. “Come on, sweetheart. It’s time to go.” He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet.

“Okay, Jack. But could we take a leave by way of the church gardens?” she smiled.

“Whatever you want,” Jack grinned. He knew he would never be able to deny her anything that was in his power to obtain. Clearing his throat, he gained the attention of the wedding guests. “Depending on how you look at it, it is either very, very late or very, very early. How ever you look at it, it’s time for Sue and I to leave. So all the single guys and gals gather around.”

He settled Sue into a nearby chair. Kneeling in front of her, he chuckled when she blushed as she edged the skirt of her gown up to allow him access to the blue garter her mother had placed there earlier. Although she was revealing no more leg than a conservative pair of shorts, Jack could tell she was mortified. Working quickly so as to protect her modesty, he removed the garter. Rising from his knee, he placed a light kiss on her lips before turning to the gathering group of eligible bachelors. “Okay, guys. Here we go.”

Turning his back, he flipped the garter over his shoulder. He turned quickly to see a blushing Bobby holding the delicate blue lace covered piece of elastic. He grinned broadly as he scanned the crowd to find a similarly blushing Tara. “Way to go, Crash,” he shouted.

Sue stood with her back to the group of eligible young ladies gathered around her. Glancing over her shoulder, she noted the exact spot of Lucy and Tara. Taking a deep breath and good aim, she released her bouquet over her shoulder. Turning quickly, she saw the bouquet separate in mid-air, half landing in Tara’s hands and the other in Lucy’s. “Perfect”, she signed. Taking Jack’s proffered hand, she let him lead her through the door and into the night.

Turning back for one final look at the group gathered on the portico of the garden entrance, she gasped. “Jack, look,” she whispered.

Jack turned to see what had caused the reaction from Sue. Following her gaze, his eyes came to rest on the ghostly image of a golden retriever standing, unseen in front of the team. The moonlight filtered down, placing a halo-like glow around the golden coat. “Levi,” Jack whispered.

He watched as the dog acknowledged his name. He saw Levi lower the front part of his body in a doggie bow. He knew Levi was bestowing his blessing on them. He gazed into the hazel eyes of his wife as he sought assurance that she had seen the same thing. The gentle glow of love and sadness mingled in her eyes, assuring him she had seen. His eyes misted as he spoke, “Somehow, I knew Levi would be here if he could.”

“I did, too, Jack.” Sue whispered, as Jack pulled her closer to him. They turned together for one last look, hoping for another glimpse of their lost companion. Instead, they saw only their team, family and friends waving to them.

More later
Kim

glad we had the tissue warning for thos two last posts

very beautiful both of them

loved bobbys speech too
cath

I'm a blubbering idiot, but I'm all caught up.

What a marvelous job you are doing with this story. It's wonderful!

This post was such an interweaving of happiness and sadness. Beautiful.

I forgot about the tissue warning for this post...oh well that was very touching. And as fo the garter and bouquet...nicely done

Kim, I definitely needed two tissues for your last two posts!!!

The reception was beautiful and Bobby's speech was pure Bobby!!!

I cried like a baby when Jack and Sue saw Levi on the terrace with the team!! And, D's request of the Assistant Director to place a photo of Levi with the other fallen heroes was a beautiful touch!!!

Joy

ah levi at least you were there for them
cant wait for the next chapter lin

Lovely post even if it did make me cry
I am glad that Jack and Sue saw Levi.

Dianna

that was a wonderful post. especially wen they saw levi there.

that was very sweet...and i'm glad levi was there

You are just wrenching my heart out, Kim...but I like that Levi has stuck around for all the unfinished business. And he must feel pleased that he was instrumental in bringing his humans together in the end...it's them I'm aching for, because they don't have him around all the time anymore. I need to find a furry friend for some fuzzy .

kav

Thanks for all the wonderful replies! This post is mostly fuzzies, but you still might want to keep a kleenex handy.

Feeling the limo stop, Jack looked out the window to find them back at their apartment. He had snuggled with her as the limo had driven them the short distance from the church to their home. It was the first time they had been alone since yesterday and he reveled in just being able to hold her in his arms. He gazed into the beautiful face of his wife. Leaning down to kiss her luscious lips, he heard her murmur his name. Pulling away, he whispered, “Remind me to thank Bobby for the limo.”

The limo driver opened Jack’s door. Jack grabbed Sue’s hand and slid across the seat, pulling her with him. Once outside the car, he lifted Sue into his arms and carried her into the building. He ignored her squeals as he made his way up to his apartment. He had waited almost four years to get her in his arms, he was not about to let her go now. With the finesse of a skilled contortionist, he fished his keys from his pocket, unlocked the door and carried his wife inside. Closing the door with his foot, he carried her to the center of the den before setting her on her feet. He held her tightly against him as he ran his tongue playfully along her lips. He smiled as she timidly opened her lips to him, allowing him to explore the farthest recesses. His mind reeled as her tongue played timidly with his. He knew her new status as his wife had given her the confidence to become bolder in her responses. As he reached to gather her up in his arms again, he felt a gentle paw brush his legs. He reluctantly released his hold on Sue’s lips to gaze into the pleading eyes of Gracie. He raised an eyebrow at the golden retriever sitting at his feet. “I think you may be more like Levi than I realized. You two share an uncanny sense of timing.”

Sue watched as Jack snapped the leash on Gracie’s collar. She moved to stand beside him, running her hand gently along his arm. “I’ll go with you,” she whispered. She didn’t want to admit it, but she couldn’t bear the thought of being without him for even the few minutes it would take to walk Gracie.

“No, Sue,” he grinned. “You stay and get ready for bed. I’ll be back in ten minutes.”

Sue’s heart stopped as she realized she didn’t have any clothes to change into. The wedding was a complete surprise. So, all her clothes remained at the apartment with Lucy. “Jack, you didn’t happen to manage to get some of my clothes over here from the apartment, did you?” she hoped. Her stomach did a flip as she watched Jack shake his head.

“Why?” he asked. She saw the smoky haze of desire fill his eyes. She knew he was her husband, but still, she didn’t know if she were ready to walk around naked in front of him. Maybe eventually, but not now!

“I don’t have anything to wear, Jack. I left my costume with Lucy at the church and I don’t relish sleeping in the work clothes from yesterday,” she sighed.

“Well, then. I guess you will just have to get creative,” he grinned. He watched as the blush on her cheeks deepened further. She gave a whole new meaning to the term blushing bride. Pulling her into his embrace, he kissed her reddened cheek. “I probably have something you can wear.” He grinned as he watched her relax. However, he wouldn’t let her off that easy. “Not that you will have on whatever you choose for very long.” He gave her a wicked grin and headed out with Gracie. Pulling the door closed behind him, he chuckled at the look of consternation he had left on his wife’s face.

****************
Jack was gone exactly eight minutes and thirty-seven seconds. Gracie had been most accommodating by finishing her nightly business quickly. Entering the apartment, he found his lovely bride curled on the couch in front of the television wearing his hockey jersey and a pair of his boxers. Excellent choice, he mused.

He tiptoed across the room to the back of the couch. Leaning over, he began to place soft kisses along the nape of her neck. He heard her groan and felt her hand reach up to take his, pulling him around the couch. He gazed into those hazel eyes and saw, for the first time, how tired they looked. Pulling her to her feet, he led her to the bedroom. He turned back the sheets and urged her down. Seeing the alarm grow in her face, he smiled and placed a tiny kiss on her nose. “You just relax. I’m going to take a shower.” He gently caressed her cheek. “Don’t worry, sweetheart. We can go as slow as you like and stop whenever you want.” He watched the alarm fade and the glow of contentment return.

He stood in the shower, eyes closed, as the warm water eased the tension from his muscles. He promised himself that he would be gentle, take it at her speed. This is her first time, Jack he reminded himself. His heart ached at the idea of hurting her in any way. He was determined to make it enjoyable for both of them. Although she had grown bolder as their relationship had deepened, she was still so innocent. It was one of the many things about her that tugged at his heart strings. He wondered at just how much he loved the woman lying in his bed wearing his hockey jersey and boxers. He had always heard of soul mates and eternal love, but he never really believed it could happen to him…until she stormed into his life. Now that she was his, he would cherish her entirely and treasure each moment they had.

*************
Jack left the bathroom light on and cracked the door. He knew she hated the dark and the light from the bathroom should illuminate the room just enough. He padded to the light switch by the door and switched it off. He then made his way to her side of the bed to turn out the light. Staring down at her form, he realized that she had drifted into a peaceful slumber, her hand tucked under her chin and her body curled into a ball. Looks like the honeymoon will have to wait he chuckled. That was okay with him. He planned to make their life together an everlasting honeymoon. Turning off the lamp, he moved her hair from her forehead, placing a light kiss upon it. Retracing his steps to his side of the bed, he turned off the lamp and slid into bed beside her. He turned on his side and pulled her close against him, smiling as she snuggled against him. Closing his eyes, he inhaled her scent and drifted into a contented sleep.

Jack sat bolt upright in bed. Reaching for the bedside lamp, he quickly switched it on and looked at the struggling form beside him. His heart had been gripped with fear as he heard her cry out in her sleep and begin to thrash in her sleep. He felt helpless as he gazed into her face which was contorted with tears and perspiration. He gently touched her arm, seeing no response, he gently took her by the shoulders and pulled her still thrashing form to him. He held her in his arms and rocked her, placing light kisses on her cheek. Although he knew she couldn’t hear him, he whispered, “It’s okay, Sue. I’m here. Wake up, sweetheart. It’s okay.”

Sue was struggling to get away, yet each step she took pulled her closer and closer to the black hole of the evil eyes staring at her. Then, like a warm blanket on a cold night, she felt his arms around her, protecting and providing security. She inhaled and breathed his scent into her nostrils. Jack.

He felt her movement subside and her breathing start to return to normal. He gazed into her face and waited as the eyelids fluttered and opened, revealing the hazel eyes that held his heart. He smiled gently as the gleam of recognition returned to their troubled depths. “Are you okay?” he whispered.

Sue clung to Jack and cried. He made her feel so safe. She knew he would just hold her until her tumultuous emotions subsided. Feeling herself regaining control, she raised her eyes to gaze into the worried depths of his brown eyes. “I’m okay.”

“Do you want to tell me about it?”

“It was horrible Jack. First, Simon was chasing me through the woods. Then he morphed into Steven Dermo. He had me tied to a tree, his lecherous eyes just inches from my face. I struggled to get free, but the more I struggled, the tighter the bonds became. Then, I saw him turn and point the gun at you. You didn’t see him and I couldn’t scream. Then Levi came bounding into the woods, racing to place himself between you and Dermo. I saw the smoke from the gun as Levi jumped up and knocked you to the ground. I saw the red blood seep across his golden coat and a bright red spot form in the middle of your back. I thought I had lost you both.” Sue dissolved against her husband’s chest as another wave of tears washed over her.

Jack gently ran his fingers through her hair as she sobbed against his chest. He placed a gentle kiss on the top of her head. He gazed into her eyes as she raised her head to capture his lips. What began as a gentle kiss meant to console escalated into a passion that threatened to reduce them both to ashes. He gazed into a face that was filled with desire. “Are you sure, Sue?”

“Yes, Jack,” she whispered as her trembling fingers traveled down his chest. She timidly eased her hands under his t-shirt and began to ease it up from his chest. She groaned as he slowly lifted the hockey jersey over her head. He was so gentle, so loving, Sue’s heart longed to give as much in return as she was receiving. She murmured his name as he captured her, heart, soul and body in one gentle motion.

As the sun rose in the horizon, they united in body, mind and soul. Jack smiled as he held a glowing Sue in his arms. She was his, he was hers and they both were sated and blissfully happy.

One more chapter to go
Kim

I think I'll just slither to bed in my melted state - and have sweet, sweet dreams!

Lovely post.

cath

Sue being timid, falling asleep and having a bad dream all added to the beautifully written wedding night.

WOW lin

Thanks guys. I am still not the most comfortable writing the really fluffy stuff. I'm glad you didn't find it as corny as I was afraid it would be.

Chapter 12

Jack was awakened the next morning by a gentle pawing at the door. He glanced at the clock on the bedside table. 9:00. He yawned and stretched gently so as not to disturb the sleeping form beside him. He was amazed at how he loved the way she snuggled beside him. He eased his arm from her waist and gingerly rose from the bed. He was opening the bedroom door to let Gracie in when he heard the knock on the apartment door. He retrieved his boxers from the floor and slid them on as he padded down the hallway in his bare feet. He peaked out the peep hole and chuckled. It’s a good thing she didn’t come last night, he mused as he opened the door.

Lucy was a little flustered at the sight of the bare-chested Jack in boxers that opened the door, the lopsided grin he gave her not helping the situation. Blushing furiously, she stammered, “I-I, uh, I didn’t, uh, inter-interrupt anything, d-d-did I?” She fought to keep her eyes focused on his face. Sue is one lucky woman, she thought.

Jack laughed, “No Luce, you didn’t interrupt anything. Sue’s still asleep, but would you like to come in for a minute. I could wake her.”

“Don’t you dare, Jack Hudson. I know she probably needs her sleep.” She wished she could have taken that last statement back as Jack arched his eyebrow. “I didn’t mean to imply…I mean I know you guys are married and that…oh here,” she finally managed as she thrust a suitcase into Jack’s hand.

Jack chuckled at the flustered rotor standing before him. He had known Lucy Dotson for a long time and he had never seen her as out of sorts as she was this morning. He couldn’t help but wonder if it was more that the site of him in boxers and shirtless. “What’s this?” he asked innocently.

“Some of Sue’s clothes. I thought you guys might not come by the apartment until after the memorial this morning. I knew Sue didn’t have any clothes here, so I pack for her.” Reaching into her pocket, she withdrew a set of keys. “And here are the keys to her car. Since your car is still in the Bureau garage, I thought you might need transportation.”

“How are you getting to work if you brought Sue’s car over here? Would you like to wait and ride in with us?” Jack asked. He watched a fresh blush cross her cheeks. She is definitely out of sorts this morning.

“No. Thanks Jack, but I have ride.” Lucy said, her voice barely a whisper.
The light began to dawn in Jack’s mind. “It wouldn’t happen to be the gallant, Harvard educated, Myles Leland the third, would it?” She didn’t have to answer, the deepening blush on her cheeks spoke volumes. He reached over and placed a brotherly hand on her shoulder. “If this is what you want, Lucy, then Sue and I will be happy for you.”

“Thank you, Jack,” she breathed. She leaned forward and placed a small kiss on his cheek before turning and exiting the apartment. Love is contagious, he smiled as he sprinted back to the bedroom, his warm bed and his loving wife.

“Where have you been?” Sue mumbled as Jack re-entered the bedroom. She watched him shed his boxers and slip back between the sheets. She still couldn’t believe that he was now her life. Seeing the gold band on his left hand and feeling the rings on her own hand, she knew she wasn’t dreaming. Her every fantasy was now a living, breathing reality.

“Answering the door.” He pulled her to him, cradling her against his chest and kissing the top of her head. “Lucy dropped off some clothes for you. She knew
you wouldn’t have anything to wear this morning. She thought we might not stop by to get more of your stuff until after the memorial this morning. Plus, she knew we would be needing transportation, so she dropped your car off.”

Sue sat up. “Jack, you did ask her to ride in with us, didn’t you?”

“Yes, sweetheart. But, she had other plans?” Jack’s brown eyes flashed with amusement as Sue stared at him.

“What other plans? Jack, what do you know that I don’t?” She pouted as he pursed his lips together and grinned. “I have ways of making you talk,” she said as she reached for the ticklish spot she had discovered just under his fourth rib.

“Hey, that’s not fair,” he laughed as she launched an attack on his side. Capturing her hands, in one of his, he began his own assault on the numerous spots he had found in his thorough exploration of her. “That’s a game two can play, sweetheart.”

He finally got the upper hand as pinned her on her back and held her arms above her head. “Now who has ways of making you talk?” he quipped as he lowered his head and captured her lips in a slow, languid kiss that reignited the fire that smolder in their stomachs.

Lying wrapped in each others arms some time later, Sue gazed into the deep brown depths of her husband’s eyes. “Wow,” she whispered. “That was…”

“Amazing, wonderful, better than anything you have ever experienced in your life,” Jack grinned. His heart soared as he realize that Sue enjoyed their time together as much as he did. He chuckled as a pink tinge rose in Sue’s cheeks. He secretly hoped he never lost the ability to make her blush.

“All of the above,” she breathed. She rose on one elbow and stared into the loving, handsome face of her husband. Leaning down, she placed a lovingly tender kiss on his lips. “You are amazing, Mr. Hudson.”

“So are you, Mrs. Hudson,” he whispered. He watched as a smile spread across her face.

“Amazing enough to tell me what you know about Lucy?” she pried.

He sighed heavily. Looking into the depths of those hazel eyes, he was reminded, once again, that he would never be able to deny her anything. “Myles was the one driving her into work this morning. She was really flustered when she stopped by. I think she may be falling for him again.”

He watched her face as she processed the information. “I told her if this is what she wants, then we would be happy for her.”

Sue sighed. She sent a silent prayer heavenward that her best friend would not end up with another broken heart. “Of course we will be happy for her, Jack. It’s just…”

He placed his fingers against her lips to stop the stream of words. “I know, Sue. I remember what it was like the first time. But Myles is a different man now than he was then. Besides, all we can really do is pray and be there for her, whatever the outcome may be. It is her life after all,” he said gently.

Sue knew Jack was right. But that didn’t stop the uneasy feeling she had for her friend. She wanted Lucy to find the blissful happiness that she shared with Jack.

Two more posts to go
Kim

i can understand why luce was a little flustered at seeing jack bare chested andf in boxers........... oh be still my pounding heart

lovely fuzzy post

cath

I just hope that Myles does not screw this up with Lucy again for the second time!

you write fuzzies extreemly well

and jack...what a wise men

KLEENEX WARNING!

Sue sat beside Jack, holding his hand cradled on his thigh. The flood of emotions she thought she had gotten past threatened to spill down her cheeks as she listened to the Assistant Director talk of Levi’s contribution to the Bureau. She tried to swallow the lump that filled her throat. Will these feelings ever go away, she wondered.

Jack squeezed Sue’s hand in a reassuring gesture. His heart ached at the sadness that settled in her eyes. He had replaced the loneliness yesterday when they had picked Gracie as Sue’s new hearing dog. But he knew he would never be able to completely erase the sadness from either of their hearts that Levi’s death had caused. He knew it would become easier with time, but there would always be a corner of their hearts that would belong to Levi and the memories he had given them. He glanced down at the golden retriever laying a Sue’s feet. If only she would play like Levi did, he mused.

D rose from his seat beside Donna and slowly walked to the podium. He looked at his wife and smiled as she gave him a reassuring wink. She had endured an endless rehearsal of his speech. He had read and wrote and re-read and re-wrote his remarks a million times in the last 48 hours. He wanted it to be flawless and polished. Levi deserved that. Yet, he worried if he would be able to hold his emotions in check. He had worked for the FBI for a number of years. He had lost friends, colleagues and teammates in the line of duty, but nothing had affected him the way Levi’s death had. Maybe it was the unwavering loyalty of the canine that caused him to grieve so. The other members of the team would argue and cajole to wiggle their way out of an assignment. Levi, however, accepted each command with complete trust and loyalty. He wasn’t sure what it was, but he knew his life would never be the same as it had been touched by the presence of Levi.

Clearing his throat, D began. “Friends, we are here today to give a fallen hero his proper place among the other fallen heroes that have tread these halls over the years. Levi was a service dog, walking on four legs instead of two. But, he was as much a part of my team as any human member. He brought hours of enjoyment to the team, yet he was always ready and willing to do what was necessary. He was Sue Thomas Hudson’s hearing dog, but he belonged to us all. He spent countless hours silently providing strength for those of us in need of a little extra care. Although he couldn’t speak, his eyes said more than any human voice has ever uttered. He made the ultimate sacrifice to save another team member. We have all received a great blessing from that sacrifice. Sue has a wonderful and loving husband. The rest of us have a friend and team leader who holds us up when we don’t have the strength to go on. We should always remember that Levi’s death was not in vain. Now, Levi will take his place alongside the other fallen heroes.”

D took out his handkerchief and wiped his eyes. Picking up the memorial plaque, he slowly made his way to Jack and Sue. He handed Sue the plaque as Jack stood and helped her to her feet. Leading them into the Memorial room, he stepped aside as Sue and Jack placed the plaque on the wall between the plaques for Shep and Wes. He smiled as he gazed at the picture. It looked as if it had always belonged there.

Jack held Sue close as the other team members gathered around. He listened to the silence as he contemplated the memories Levi had left him with. He knew the others were doing the same. Even Gracie seemed to be more somber, if that were possible. She was the most somber dog Jack had ever seen.

Myles was the first to break the silence. “I will always remember the unconditional love he offered after I was shot. It was Sue’s words that helped me realize I needed to reach out and trust, accepting that it was okay to be afraid. But it was Levi who stayed, silently offering his support until I could support myself.”

“Yeah, Levi could sense when one of us needed a little extra attention,” Bobby replied softly. “However, I think I will always remember the day he baptized Myles’ leg,” he chuckled.

“Levi was always good for a little entertainment,” Lucy laughed. “He was also always good for soft cuddle when the harshness of the world seemed too much to bear.” Lucy felt the sting of tears in her eyes as she remembered the soft fur she often mindlessly stroked as she worked through the problems of life.

“Levi,” Tara said as she walked to the plaque. “Just know that each one of us will treasure our memories of you.” She cried softly as Bobby pulled her into his embrace.

“Well, I guess that just about does it,” Jack said as he took Sue’s hand. “Are you ready to go, sweetheart?”

“I’d like to make one stop before we go back to the apartment to pack.” She gazed at the team, knowing they were so much more than team members, co-workers or friends. They were family. “Will you guys go with us?”

One more post
Kim

where are they going

bye levi...i will miss you

and boy do you write fast

THat was so touching....I hope I can survive the last post....

that was so sad kim.
but where are they all off to cant wait for
the next post hope its more happier lin

Thank you for the the extra posts. There is so much that has happened here I hardly know where to start. Awesome writing.

What a great story. Although it is heartwrenching at times it still has lots of great humor, tenderness, fuzzies and angst. Great job I can't wait for your final post.

Dianna

YOu can write it all -- and so well! I'm ready to more.

kav

Here is the last post. Thank you so much for the wonderful replies. Thank you for sticking with me through a angst-ridden story. You will most definitely need several kleenexes for this one.

Jack and Sue left in Sue’s car while the others piled into one of the Bureau’s SUVs. Jack eased the car into parking lot of the small animal cemetery they had been to three months before. Turning off the engine, he took Sue’s hand, “Are you sure you want to do this?” Seeing her nod, he leaned over and kissed her tenderly before exiting the car. He walked around to the passenger side and held the door for Sue to exit, helping her coax Gracie out of the back seat.

Taking Sue by the hand, Jack led them up the small knoll to the grave resting under the sheltering arms of a large maple tree. Despite the lateness of the season, the tree was still aflame with red leaves. No leaf had fallen from the branches. It’s as if they are waiting for something special, Jack mused as they neared the grave.

Sue gazed around the team as they stood silently by the grave. She was wrapped in the loving embrace of her husband, her own arms entwined around his waist. D has holding tightly to Donna’s waist, taking all the strength that their fifteen year marriage offered. Sue knew that Donna often felt like an outsider, but today, she was as big a member of their family as anyone else. Bobby and Tara were standing wrapped in each others arms, the tall Australian’s arms all but swallowing Tara’s petite form. Myles’ arm was gently around Lucy’s shoulders, his free hand holding hers. Sue smiled. Somehow, they had all paired off, yet standing at Levi’s grave, she felt more connected to them than she ever had.

Jack gazed out across the fields that were visible from their vantage point. Suddenly, a petite young woman dressed in simple business suite and her golden haired companion came into view. He blinked several times, trying to bring the images into sharper focus. “Guys, isn’t that…”

“Katrina,” Myles gasped.

“And Levi?” Tara questioned.

They all stood in stunned silence as Katrina and Levi approached. Katrina smiled gently at the group. “Okay, guys. Yes, you really are seeing what you think you are seeing, so close your mouths before a bug flies in.”

“It is my great honor to escort Levi Home. He has been hanging around here for the last few months to stand watch until God was sure you could handle it on your own. God is pleased with Levi and he is also pleased with each one of you. You have learned the lessons Levi taught well,” Katrina’s southern accent floated along the breeze, bringing peace to the team’s still grieving hearts.

“Levi wants you to know how special each one of you were to him. Bobby, you, D and Myles were his playmates. Tara, you were his source of hidden treats. Lucy, you gave him attention and care when Sue could not. Jack, you were his best buddy. You offered him your unconditional love and acceptance, much as you did his mistress. You played with him and snuck him tidbits of forbidden food. But most of all, you offered him someone he could rely on to help him protect his Sue. He is just very happy that you finally stopped your Turtle Boy routine and claimed her as your own. Sue, you were the source of his purpose in life. If it weren’t for you, he would have spent his days alone, stuck unnoticed in a kennel somewhere. But you were willing to take a chance on him. He will always be grateful for that. He loves you Sue, and always will.” Katrina gazed down at the golden retriever sitting by her side. “Is that all you wanted me to say?”

Levi’s eyes answered, “Yes.” Moving slowly, he made his way to the one in the group he didn’t need a celestial interpreter for…Gracie. Touching her nose with his, Levi told her his wish. “Gracie, I know you are scared to love again after losing Vickie. But trust me, Jack and Sue are worth the risk. Vickie’s death was not your fault. It’s okay to run and play and be happy. That’s what a dog does. I tell you what, I’ll make a deal with you. Stay here for just a second.” Levi turned as made his way back to Katrina. Accepting something from her hand, he scampered back to Gracie.

Levi dropped his bunny at Gracie’s feet. “Here is the deal. I’ll look after Vickie until you join her at Rainbow Bridge. In return, you have to look after Jack and Sue and Bunny. You have to promise me that you will play with her, okay?” Levi smiled as doggie smile as Gracie nodded. Padding back to Katrina, he sat and waited patiently.

“Well, it is time for Levi to go Home.” Katrina said softly. “But I want you to know, he will be waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge. You all have many years left on this earth, but hang on to the knowledge that when it is your time to go, you will each have an escort and Levi will be waiting in the field just outside Rainbow Bridge to lead you the rest of the way Home.”

Gracie stood with the rest of the team. She heard the soft sobs escaping their lips as they stood watching Levi and Katrina walk towards the distant rainbow that had appeared just across the field. She sighed a doggie sigh as she saw a pretty blonde woman meet them half way. Vickie. She knew Levi would keep his part of the deal, now it was time for her to keep hers. Picking up the bunny, she padded over to Jack and dropped it at his feet.

Jack smiled down at the golden head. Bending down, he retrieved the bunny. “You want to play, girl?” He chuckled as Gracie bounced happily. “Okay, girl. Go get it.” As he threw the bunny a short distance away and Gracie bounded after it, the first leaf fell from the maple tree.

Soon the team was showered with hundreds of gently falling leaves. Like Levi’s life, it was the end of one season and the beginning of another. Each one knew that the tree, like their lives would continue to grow and thrive. They knew the leaves would return in the spring, just like their memories of Levi would return from time to time…each time a little easier to bear than the time before.

Sue’s heart whispered as she turned with Jack to walk back to the car. “Levi, we will always cherish our memories of you.”

The End

Thanks again!
Kim

Beautiful ending!

You ended it on a perfect note...thanks for a great story Kim. Looking forward to what you have next for us.

Kim that was a wonderful ending sad but
beautiful lin

a beautiful ending, sad but with hope too



cath

I loved it!

Thank you...

Thanks for sharing your lovely touching story with us

Good story.
thanks so much,
Terie

Wonderful job on your story.

Dianna

Heartwrenchingly perfect!!!!

Bravo!

Thank you for sharing the wonderful story. Dealing with Levi's passing was a difficult topic to handle, and you did it well.

Jack and Sue's wedding night was perfect!! Jack is so loving with Sue!!!

The memorial service was heartwrenching but beautiful!! Levi deserved to be honored, he was truly a hero!!!

Your last post, Kim, is incredible!! I was pretty sure Katrina was an angel!! To bring Levi to them to say goodbye was amazing!! And Levi talking to Gracie was perfect, a promise for a promise!!!

Thanks so much for sharing your incredible talent with us!!!

Joy

I forgot I'm not suppose to read this at work But it was beautiful! Thank you Kim!

Em