Okay, throwing my hat in the ring. Not too sure about this, but I wanted to take things in a different way. Hope you enjoy!!!!

“And just what kind of games do you have in mind, shelia?” Bobby asked playfully nuzzling Darcy’s neck as he wrapped his arms around her.

“Bobby!” Darcy scolded with a gleam in her eye slapping his arm slightly as it settled around her waist.

“None of that, lovebirds. Not all of us are here with people we can snuggle with,” Lucy said looking distinctively at Myles.

“Not that we’d want to in the first place,” Myles scoffed arrogantly, a little hurt that she still harbored ill feelings towards him, but understanding why.

Sue glanced over at Jack, but catching him watching her she quickly looked away chewing on her bottom lip nervously. Jack smiled wondering what she was thinking. I know I wouldn’t mind if the game consisted of a little snuggling, Jack thought, and then promptly returned his attention to what the others were saying afraid of where his mind was taking him.

“Watch it, mister,” Lucy warned. “I can always pair you with Cousin Itt.” Hearing this, Levi put his paw up over his nose causing everyone to laugh.

“Oh, Lucy, you hurt his feelings,” Tara cooed, crouching down to comfort Levi.

“I’m sorry, boy,” Lucy knelt beside the dog. “Why should you suffer?” Noticing Myles’ smug look, she added, “I’ll take you as my partner. You’re certainly more attentive than the one I have.” Levi barked in agreement causing Myles’ face to fall in disbelief.

“Hey, wonderdog,” Myles cautioned. “Keep it up and see if I sneak you any more doughnuts.”

Now it was everyone else’s turn to stare at Myles in shock as Levi raised his front legs in the air towards Myles as if he was begging. Realizing what he said Myles looked down at the dog embarrassed.

“I guess that isn’t our little secret anymore, huh?” Myles whispered loudly to his four-legged friend.

“No wonder you’re always wanting to follow Myles around,” Sue finally managed to get out to her companion with a laugh. Giving Myles a sympathetic look, she added, “I know it’s hard for me to tell him NO, too.”

“Good then while were at it, I’ll confess that I sneak Levi…” D started from his chair, laughing when Sue’s eyes grew wide. “I’m just kidding!” Thankful, Sue just smiled.

“Okay, can we get back to the games now,” Bobby asked. “Or are we going to play Truth or Dare to get more secrets out of Myles,” he joked giving the blonde agent a slap on his back.

“Now that’s a thought!” Jack spoke up. “Sue, Truth or Dare…”

“Jack!” Sue interrupted uncomfortable, but returning his smile before turning back to Lucy who was beginning to give the instructions about the game.

“We will be going on a Halloween Scavenger Hunt around D.C.” Lucy announced dramatically.

“A what hunt?” Sue asked not catching the word. Jack tapped her arm and signed, H-A-L-L-O-W-E-E-N-S-C-A-V-E-N-G-E-R-H-U-N-T.

“Oh, thanks,” she said, “sounds like fun.” Sue had never been on a Scavenger Hunt before and was really interested in experiencing a new adventure.

“Good,” Lucy replied. “Each couple will be given a list of items and/or clues directing them to a place,” Lucy read off a card she held. “Each list has been specifically made up for each couple.”

“And I guess since you made them up,” Bobby said. “You and Myles get a little head start.”

“What’s wrong with that?” Myles asked hauntingly. “She is the host of this festivity so I get to benefit by being her partner.”

“Actually, I didn’t make up the lists,” Lucy declared halting any further argument. “Mr. Garrett did.”

“Garrett!” D asked surprised from his chair beside his wife. “I didn’t think he’d go for any of this hobgoblin stuff. What is he up to?”

“That’s what I’d like to know?” Bobby questioned curiously as all eyes turned back to Lucy.

“Mr. Garrett found out about the party and just said that after all the hard work we’ve put in the past couple of weeks we deserve some fun,” Lucy supplied. “He made all the arrangements and delivered these here this morning,” she said holding up a stack of envelopes with each couple’s names on them.

If he knew about the party, Jack wondered, why did he keep me so long tonight? And what were those questions about? Unable to answer those questions, Jack listened to Lucy as she completed the instructions.

“We are to take the Metro any place we need to go. No cars and no taxis. Metropasses are in your envelopes,” Lucy advised. “And whether we have our list completed or not, we need to be back here by 3 am.”

“Why?” Donna asked taking their envelope when Lucy handed it to her.

“Other than that is when the Metro stations close…” Lucy shrugged as she finished passing out the rest of the envelopes. “I have no clue. Mr. Garrett just said to be back here by 3am.”

“Well, I guess we can’t argue with the boss,” Bobby submitted. “Are you ready, ‘Lois’?” he asked looking at Darcy who nodded laughing as Bobby grabbed the ends of his cape swinging it around behind him as he marched off to the door.

“Hey, Darcy,” D asked practically rolling on the floor at the sight Bobby made. “Are you sure you’re safe out there with him like that?” Bobby turned and glared causing even more laughter to erupt.

“Hey, shelia,” Bobby called to Sue, waving his hand to get her attention. “You’re welcome to come with the ‘Man of Steel’, too.” Looking at her outfit, he smiled, “Dressed like that you’re going to need more than a ‘slick greaser’ to protect you.”

“No, thanks, Bobby,” Sue blushed, looking shyly at Jack. “I think we’ll do just fine.” Jack beamed proudly at Bobby, his chest puffed pompously until Sue leaned over and asked D, “Do you think he brought his gun?”

Oh, this is fun! Great start, KH!!! I'm really looking forward to seeing what they have to find on their scavenger hunts, and what Ted has planned for them!!!

How original! Kind of reminds me of the Amazing Race...can't wait to see where you go with this one, Kristal!

I never thought about it that way...may give me some ideas...hmmm

LOL

Oooooh - I love it! Another great story to keep up with.

You writers are doing nothing to help my J/S fanfic addition - to which I say THANK YOU!

Can't wait for more.

A scavenger hunt tailor-made for each couple? Now that should be an interesting one! Can't wait to see where their hunt leads them through D.C.....

*sprogpaws bounces around, thinking all her birthdays have come at once!*

Kristal, this is WONDERFUL!!! I can tell I am just going to love this story!!! Did you read on medstudents fundraising thread that I'd always wanted to arrange a scavenger hunt - this story is just fulfilling a whole wodge of dreams for me!!!

I'm ever so excited about this now - hurry and post more!!!

Had to add again, sorry!

I was soaking in a lovely deep bubble bath (alone, I hasten to add, since Mentor hasn't got around to that yet! ) when I had a sudden panic and had to jump out, run straight through and get back on here.

How on earth is Lucy going to get around for the scavenger hunt in that dress?

I've been thinking about it as I waited for ye olde computer to wake up, and I've come to the conclusion that the best possible solution would be for Myles to put her on a skateboard

Also thinking that D and Donna must be really regretting their skimpy costumes. And as for poor Stanley, there's devotion to Tara, but this might just be enough to send him running for the hills?!?! Garrett, you old devil you, you've struck gold with this little plan!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go and clean up a trail of bubbles along my landing. Oh, and I apologise for any emotional trauma caused to any of you who have highly sensitive visual imaginations and who actually pictured my actions, I will understand if you send the therapy bills my way

Kristal --

What an absolutely creative twist. This is going to be fabulous and I can hardly wait for more.

I do think Jack might have to be "protecting" Sue. Late at night, on the metro, on Halloween...YIKES!!

Also wondering what Garrett has up his sleeve and why he did keep Jack so late.

Only you know...and we are waiting to find out.

Oh wow! This is really creative and fun! I'm looking forward to seeing where you go with this.

And as a side note, can I just add a for sprogpaws' entire last post? Too funny!

VERY FUN!!!! I agree... and what a nice way for your sense of humor to shine! You write humor so well!

Jen

Just to let you know the some of the places and stories in this fanfic/challenge as well as my other fanfic in the Works in Progress section are real. However any similarities to people living or dead are just coincidence. I hope each couple will have at least one or two "adventures" during their hunt. Hope you like them and thanks for your comments and feedback. Now on with the story!!!!!

Bobby and Darcy’s first set of clues directed them to Union Station. Coming up the escalators from the Metro, Darcy was immediately taken in by the breath-taking architecture of the two story concourse. The statues lining the arches of the second floor standing like guardians of a time gone by. Expensive marble, gold leaf, and white granite lined the pavilion reminiscent of the Imperial Rome public baths.

“I’ve never seen the Station look like this before. They must have decorated for the holiday,” Darcy awed spinning like a child taking in the ghosts and goblins scattered throughout the arcade as the marble floor echoed their footsteps. “It’s like we’ve step back into time!”

“Sure looks that way,” Bobby agreed. “At least it’s not very crowded for a Halloween night.” Taking her hand, he laughed at her innocent expression as she gawked at their surroundings. “Come on, ‘Lois’, we’ve got a mission to accomplish.”

“And you have to beat the others don’t you,” Darcy teased as he pulled her along.

“They can’t beat me, I’m Superman,” Bobby replied, throwing his arm up and cocking his head to the side like he was going to fly. Wrapping his arm around her waist, he pulled her to him joining in her laughter. “So what are we looking for?”

“The clue says ‘Where people will actually sing for YOUR food.’ That’s kind of funny,” Darcy laughed.

“What?” Bobby asked looking down at her.

“Like someone would want to sing for YOUR cooking,” she broke into hysterics.

“Well, if you don’t like MY cooking,” Bobby scoffed stopping to look disapprovingly at her, “you can just get someone else.”

“Oh, baby,” Darcy smiled wrapping her arms around him and looking up at him lovingly. “You know, you’re the one that I want to do all my cooking…and not necessarily in the kitchen,” she added with a devilish grin. Bobby pulled her tight to him, placing a hard kiss on her mouth.

“Maybe we can see about some of that ‘cooking’ later,” Bobby offered, his breath a little ragged from their kiss. “Now where would someone want to sing for our food?” he asked just about the time he heard the music and singing coming from farther down the pavilion. “Do you think they may be singing for us?” he asked cocking his eyebrow questioningly at Darcy.

“Only one way to find out,” Darcy said pulling him now. As they came around the corner to where the music was, they realized the singers were waiters and waitresses at ‘Johnny Rockets’, a retro-50’s restaurant offering all-American food. The waiters and waitresses were dressed as soda jerks from yesteryear laughing and singing to the customers. Each table boasted its own mini-jukebox in this trendy diner with its authentic décor.

“Well, at least Lois Lane and Clark Kent would have felt welcome here,” Bobby smiled when he finally recovered from the shock. “Come on, let’s go in and see if they have our next clue.” Laughing, he led Darcy into the restaurant as the singers danced around them.

At the Marina about a block or two from the Waterfront Metro Station, D and Donna were searching for a duck. They couldn’t believe it when the followed their directions and found how they were to get their next clue. Shrugging their shoulders they walked hand and hand down the Marina not really caring if they found the next clue.

Donna was just happy to have D alone for a while without the children or his co-workers interrupting. She knew it was his job and she was proud of him for what he did to make the country safer for their children. However, she still missed the times they had when they were dating just share a few romantic moments together. Looking over at her husband, Donna thought about how luck she was.

“Oh, my God,” D suddenly said stopping in his tracks. Frowning at the perplexed look on this face, Donna followed his gaze to a large yacht parked in one of the Marina spaces. One side of the yacht was a banner with a picture of a duck and the words ‘Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Gans’.

“Okay, D, what’s going on?” Donna asked bewildered as she saw a short round man dressed in a captain’s suit wave to them from the deck.

“I have no idea,” he replied as they walked slowly towards the craft. The captain came down the ramp to meet them shaking both of their hands vigorously.

“So good of you to join us,” the captain said, practically standing at attention in front of them. “The vessel is ready to set sail whenever you are, sir. Dinner will be served at your convenience, ma’am.” Sweeping his arm back towards the yacht, he added, “If you come this way, I’ll introduce you to the rest of your crew.”

“Our crew?” Donna questioned in disbelief.

“Set sail?” D was just as dumbfounded as to what was going on.

“Yes, sir, and ma’am,” the captain replied, looking from one to the other. “You are Dimitrius and Donna Gans, are you not?”

“Yes,” D replied with Donna only nodding.

“Then this ship and its crew are at your beck and call,” the captain bowed. “Compliments of Mr. Ted Garrett, you will be dining on board while touring the scenic Potomac River. While out there, we might even get in a ghost story or too in honor of Halloween.”

“Garrett!” D realized looking at his wife. “I can’t believe he did this! Honey?” he looked at her with loving eyes. “Do you want to go?”

“Oh, yeah,” Donna said without hesitation, allowing her husband to direct her to the ramp to board. This was going to be one evening I will never forget!, D and Donna thought at almost the same time looking forward to their adventure.

Oh, wow, that really special. D and Donna don't care if they win anyway, so to have a special evening all their own...how fun and romantic for them.

Anxious to read some more and see what's up with the other couples.

Just to let you know some of the places that I'm sending the gang to are real locations in DC. Any similarities with any events or persons past, present or future are purely concidence. Thanks.

Ah, Garrett is the sly one, isn't he??? This is great!!! Can't wait to see where the other couples end up!!!

Wow! I wonder where Jack and Sue end up.

Awww... That's so sweet! I can't wait to see where Jack and Sue end up going.

Love this story (mainly 'cuz it's not scaring me to death) I hope you continue soon!


JoM

Awh, thank you for letting Donna and D have some special time together, that's so lovely

I really am enjoying every single second of this story, it's just ........ perfect!

Hate to disappoint you...but the spooky parts of this story are still up and coming...

Once I get everyone to tell me where they are...then we get into the halloween scaries....lol

Something to look forward to...or NOT. :whistle:

How nice of Garrett to do that for D and Donna, and I loved the cute scene with Bobby and Darcy...keep it coming, please! As for the spooky stuff---bring it on! Can't wait to see what happens here!

Great job! Can't wait for the 'spookies', though! Thanks for getting our favorite couples into this kind of situation...so creative!

OK, you've had plenty of response! I say it's time for another post... of the story! Honestly, I love it! I loved the idea of the scavenger hunt turned intimate evening. Wonderful idea!! Aww, isn't Garrett the greatest?? Anxious for more!

OK I listen...LOL

Seriously if Bobby, Darcy, D and Donna would give me some peace so I can check in with the others, this would go a little faster. They keep wanting to tell me the rest of their story and I can't hear the others. Hehe!

Her is what I've got! I'll post again as soon as I check in with the others.

Thanks for all the feedback and comments.

Tara arrived at the Old Post Office Pavilion in central DC practically dragging Stanley behind her. While both of them conceded that the first part of their clue meant ‘post office’, they disagreed on their final destination. Stanley felt they should have been going to the Postal Museum across from Union Station, but reluctantly agreed to try here first when Tara insisted it was the right place. He really felt like they were wasting their time, but found he had trouble telling her NO.

As they approached the main doors, Tara noticed that all the lights were still on inside the Pavilion. However, it appeared the building was empty.

“See, Tara,” Stanley maintained pulling against her. “There’s no one…” A man stepping out of the shadows startling them both caused him to stop mid-sentence. They took in the man’s attire from his top hat and coat to his red umbrella and gloves. The man even had his face painted green.

“Uh, Jiminy Cricket, I presume,” Tara laughed finally recovering from the shock.

“At your service,” the man smiled his voice practically singing as he bowed deeply before them. Holding the door open, he ushered them into the main hall of the Pavilion.

“Garrett has totally lost it,” Tara whispered to Stanley with a twinkle in her eye as they passed the shops and restaurants following the man to the elevator. The building was extravagant with a huge Romanesque grand atrium that Tara had only been in once, during an undercover operation at a recent gala.

She didn’t have time them to enjoy the splendor of the place, but promised that one day she’d come back. Unfortunately she’d never had the time.

“So what do you know about the history of this building,” the man asked as they stepped into the elevator.

“Nothing really,” Stanley admitted looking at Tara who nodding in agreement.

“Well, the building was Washington’s first skyscraper and the largest, tallest government building in the city standing twelve stories tall and housed both the U.S. Post Office and the D.C. Post Office. While it was the first government building to have its own electric power plant, only 15 years after its completion in 1899 it considered dated and plans for demolition were undertaken,” he stated as they began their assent to the 270-foot tower observation level. “Fortunately the Depression era delayed any demolition and by the time they reconsidered it in the 1960s, a new appreciation for classic architectural monuments had taken hold. The tower where we are heading houses the bells of the U.S. Congress as well as the building still housing a post office and the restaurants, shops and theaters you just passed. We have a lot of social galas and government receptions still being held here in the main Pavilion.”

Tara nodded in agreement remembering the gala she’d been to as the doors opened to the tower. As they stepped out on the observation deck, the breathtaking 360 degree view of the D.C. skyline made them gasp in awe. Even at dusk you could pick out the shapes of the Capitol Building and Jefferson Memorial to the east as well as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial to the west.

“Look, Tara, you can see the lights from the top of the Smithsonian Castle,” Stanley pointed out in wonderment.

“And back there is the White House,” Tara exclaimed as they practically ran from one railing to another.

“Other there’s the Hoover Building,” they called out together stopping suddenly when they realized what they said. They looked at each other and burst out laughing.

“I thought we promised not to talk about work when we were out,” Tara joked with her hands on her hips trying to look stern. However, her costume just made Stanley laugh at her attempt.

“Don’t you laugh at me,” she said, playfully punching him in the arm. Allowing him to pull her into an embrace, she rested her head on his shoulder content on just being with him. “The view is beautiful. I’m glad I had you to share it with.” She admitted smiling up at him.

“Come on, we need to get our next clue from ‘Ole Jiminy’ and get moving,” Stanley admitted permitting Tara to detach herself from his arms.

“Okay,” she said reluctantly walking with him in the direction they’d seen the old man go. Seeing a flicker of light inside the tower building, they headed in that direction.

“Mr., uh,…” they looked at each other and laughed. Not knowing what else to call him, Tara called out, “Mr. Cricket! Where are you?”

Tara’s eyes widened when their host emerged from the building with an elegantly adorned cart. Two covered plates with a bud vase and wine glasses adorned the top as he pushed the cart over to a table by the rail.

“Dinner is served,” he said expressively. Stanley and Tara watched in amazement as he began setting up the table with the food and accessories.

“Dinner?” Tara finally asked when the man turned back to them.

“Mr. Garrett said you were to have the finest of meals tonight,” he expressed, pulling out a chair for Tara to sit. Both of them cautiously sat down not quite believing they were getting this type of treatment and from Ted Garrett no less.

“Do you feel like we’re in a Disney movie or something?” Stanley asked when the man had made sure they had everything they needed and left via the elevator.

“This has got to be some kind of fantasy,” Tara agreed as they began to eat, “but the food is good.”

This is so great!!! Sooooooo, Jack and Sue are next, right?

This is great! Like all the other J/S Junkies i cannot wait to see what Garret has in store for them! Since he is giving the others nice romantic evenings i would expect nothing less for our favourite couple-to-be.

Awh, that's just so cute!

Wish Garrett were my boss!!!! He's gone to a huge amount of trouble for each couple - like the others, I can't wait to see what he has lined up for Jack and Sue, and also what Lucy and Myles make of their evening!!!

Kristal - you are a genius!!

don't leave Jack/Sue to the end i dying of suspense.

What a fun idea!!! :bdayboy: Please tell us about jack and Sue next unless you're going to save the best for last.

“This hill is dreadful,” Myles grumbled as he trudged up the steep slope holding Levi’s leash.

“I don’t know what you’re complaining about, Myles,” Lucy protested from behind him, “At least you can walk.” She scurried along the sidewalk her steps hampered by the dress she wore.

Myles stopped to allow her to catch up. Looking down at her in the costume she chose, Myles was reminded of the reasons he first asked her out so long ago. A twinkle in his eye, he looped Levi’s leash around his waist and grabbed Lucy by the waist pulling her up into his arms. Shocked Lucy threw her arms around his neck her eyes as big as saucers.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Lucy demanded clutching at his shoulders as he resumed their trek up the hill.

“Now you don’t have to walk and we can make it to the top of the hill before midnight,” Myles said simply trying to hide his rising emotions at holding her in his arms again.

“I can walk,” Lucy insisted kicking her feet trying to get him to let her down.

“Stay still,” Myles commanded, “or I’ll throw you over my shoulder.”

“You won’t dare,” Lucy stated eyes wide at the thought. Myles just stopped and glared down at her meaningful.

“Okay, maybe you would,” Lucy admitted lowering her eyes passively letting him carry her up the hill.

Arriving at the top, Myles stopped suddenly looking at the scene before him. Gallaudet University, the sign said across the entrance. His eyes took in the large building behind the gate house his heart pounding.

“What kind of joke is this?” Myles questioned softly dropping Lucy back to her feet. What could Garrett be thinking? he thought failing to see the sly grin forming on Lucy’s face.

“No joke, Myles,” Lucy smiled. “This is our next destination.”

Myles stood in shock watching Lucy head to the gatehouse only moving when Levi pulled at his leash. Myles’ steps were significantly slower as he followed her noticing a woman coming to meet them.

“Hi, how are you this evening?” the woman signed as she spoke.

“Great,” Lucy replied signing. “I’m Lucy Dotson and that is Myles Leland with Levi.”

“Ah, yes,” the woman continued. “We were expecting you. I’m Martha King with the President’s Office. I hope your trip up the hill wasn’t too exhausting because we have a lot of things planned for you both tonight.” At Levi’s bark, she added with a smile, “For you too, Levi.”

“Let’s hurry up and get what we need here so we can get on to our final destination,” Myles said to Lucy when the woman turned to back beckoning them to follow.

“Oh, this is your final destination, Mr. Leland,” Martha stated without turning around causing Myles to stop in his tracks.

“You heard me,” Myles stuttered. “I thought you were deaf,” he continued as she turned around to smile at him.

“Not everyone at Gallaudet is deaf, Mr. Leland,” she said. “We have quite a few students, teachers and staff that are hearing.”

“Uh, um, sorry,” Myles stammered embarrassed at his assumptions.

“That’s okay,” Martha smiled as they continued to the gatehouse. “Many people don’t understand that even though we are a comprehensive, multipurpose institution of higher education for deaf and hard of hearing, several of our staff, teachers, as well as students are in fact hearing,” she continued as she indicated they should get into a golf cart provided. “You’ll find during your visit her than everyone, whether in or out of the classroom, communicates through the use of both sign language and spoken English.”

“Interesting,” Myles stated quietly, not missing Lucy’s smirk as Martha began driving them around the campus. Normally not at a loss for words, Myles didn’t know what to say. Even after meeting Sue and finally accepting her as an equal, he regretted he still had difficulties excepting the Deaf Community.

“We’re going to make our way over to Cogswell Hall where several of the students have made dinner for the two of you,” Martha informed them. “After that we have some other more, uh, Halloween appropriate activities for you to enjoy,” she smiled.

Lucy couldn’t help but grin as she thought of the evening ahead. Myles Leland the III is going to be eating crow by the time the night was over, Lucy thought happily.

I thought about making you suffer until tomorrow to find out what S/J were up to...fortunately for you all, they felt differently and insisted on telling me their story tonight. Enjoy!!!! :whistle:

Not far from the Old Post Office Pavilion, a horse-drawn carriage lumbered down 16th Street through Lafayette Square. Though the tree lined park was practically deserted the streetlights provided enough illumination to clearly see the two passengers in the carriage. The pretty blonde and her dark-haired companion sat quietly under the comfy blanket stealing secretive glances at each other looking away quickly when caught by the other.

The trip on the Metro was almost more than Jack could handle. Noticing the appreciative smiles other men had given Sue in the costume she was wearing, Jack was about ready to take her back to the apartment where he could have her to himself. However, realizing he was being ridiculous since some of the same looks the others were giving were the same looks he’d given her at the apartment, Jack stepped forward and put an arm around her waist. After a few well-pointed glares in their direction, Jack had gotten them to back off.

Sue had noticed the looks she was getting too, but decided to ignore them. Wearing the costume she chose, Sue was expecting it. What she wasn’t anticipating was the way her heart pounded when Jack put his arm around her pulling her close to him. The warm smile he’d given her melt her to her core causing a warm blush to come over her. Heart pounding, she looked away, not seeing the glares Jack gave the others on the Metro with them, but thankful she’d stopped being the center of attention.

Leaving the train, Jack had taken her hand as they ascended to street level. Sue relished in the warmth of his large hand covering hers. Her heart pounded in her chest as he stood close to her his hand on the small of her back as they waited for the elevator doors to open.

Even if she could have thought of something to say, she wasn’t sure if she could have formed the words. Unknown to her, Jack was having the same problem. Walking along the street outside the station as they headed for Lafayette Square, they almost missed the sign the carriage driver was holding as he stood next to the horses.

“I’m Jack Hudson and this is Sue Thomas,” Jack stated as they approached the carriage after reading the sign that bore their names.

“Ah, I’m Morris,” the man replied and turning to the horse, he continued, “This is Lucky. We have been commissioned to escort you to your next location.” He moved to the carriage and offered a hand to help Sue up.

After a quick look at Jack for reassurance, Sue stepped into the carriage. Unfortunately for Jack, she didn’t realize how the high step on the carriage accentuated her derriere causing his heart to skip a beat. Taking a deep breath, he pulled himself into the seat beside her allowing her to arrange the blanket offered around them.

As the carriage lurched forward and they were jostled into each other, Jack quickly put his arm around Sue steadying her. Sue shot him a thankful look, her heart fluttering as she peered into his dark eyes. Jack’s eyes were drawn to her mouth as her lips parted pulling him to her like a magnet.

A sudden shake of the carriage as it crossed into the park broke the trance. They both quickly turned away looking at the surrounding area with unseeing eyes struggling to contain their errant thoughts.

Oh, wow! I don't know how you do it, but you have two fantastic stories going on at once. You are making me one happy girl! (Ok, woman!) You are writing everyone so wonderfully - but I'm especially enjoying the Jack/Sue parts.

Please continue with your fabulous story(s).

Woohoo! It's getting hot in that carriage!
they don't need a blanket to keep warm, they should just snuggle up with each other. Excellent stuff but i agree with LNG - WE WANT MORE!

I also can't wait to see what Lucy and Myles will be up to.

KH...this is just so unique and so brilliant. It speaks so highly of Garrett and how much he appreciates his team.

Love seeing how all of this is building and how each "theme" is special for them.

Keep it coming...I'm loving it.

Sidenote: Do you think our good tax dollars are paying for this...

Wow! I just caught up on this story, and it's great! I love how you're writing specific story lines for each couple, even if I'm not crazy about two of the couples (sniff, sniff....M/T...... ). Oh well, I'll live! The story's great anyway!

And as a very busy wife and mother, could I just say a big "Thank you" for what you wrote about D and Donna? That was so sweet! I'm sitting at the computer with this big smile on my face, because I know how much an evening like that could mean to them. Thanks so much.

wonderful story, very romantic situation. I cant wait to read more. Keep up the good work.

Thanks for your patience. Fortunately, D and Donna have been yelling this in my head for days...I just had to get it on paper and typed.

“Over that way is Fort McNair,” the captain told D and Donna directing their attention to the shoreline through the window as he continued his DC area ghost stories. “Among the best known ghosts believed to be haunting buildings on the fort include John Wilkes Booth and Mary Sarat who was convicted for her part in the conspiracy to assassinate Lincoln.”

“Really?” Donna said snuggly closer to D on the couch the shared on the parlor of the yacht. They’d had a wonderfully extravagant meal and now were enjoying the old man’s stories, but some of the tales had sort of spooked her a bit.

“Booth was hung in the attic of Building 21 even though he was already dead,” the captain nodded. “Later, one of the companies carrying out renovations reported that carpenters heard footsteps in the attic and had something following very close behind them up the cellar stairs, close enough to cause them to RUN the rest of the way up the stairs to the first floor.”

D pulled her tighter to him rubbing her arm, when Donna looked up at him with wide eyes. He hid his smile at the captain’s stories obvious hoaxes to perpetuate the Halloween stereotype. A few creaks and groans can’t scare me after what I’ve seen, D thought holding his wife close.

“And up here around this next bend used to be an old covered bridge that was washed away during a storm,” the captain continued. “Unfortunately, a stagecoach driver that was heading across the bridge late one night from DC into Virginia didn’t realize the bridge was out and the stagecoach and its horses plunged into the Potomac. To this day, people say you can still hear the horses neighing and the splash of the water,” he said in a haunting whisper.

Standing suddenly he said, “I need to check on your dessert with the galley. Please feel free to take a stroll on deck and enjoy the evening.” After making sure they had blankets to wrap up in, he excused himself and headed down below.

“Well, darling,” D asked placing a kiss on the top of his wife’s head. “Would you like to go up on deck with your old man?”

“With you, I’d go to the ends of the earth,” Donna said smiling up at him.

Grabbing the blankets, D held open the door for Donna to precede him outside. Placing one blanket around her shoulders and the other around his, D walked with her to the rail. Wrapping his arms around her holding her in front of him, they cuddled watching the moonlight play on the waves of the water.

“This is wonderful, D,” Donna admitted leaning back content into her husband. “I don’t remember when I’ve felt this relax.”

“Hmm, yeah,” D agreed. “Do we have to go back?” he smiled over the top of her head.

Their contentment was short-lived, however, when they heard the sound of horses along the banks of the river. Remembering the story the captain just told about the area they were in Donna couldn’t help but look at D over her shoulder. As they listened, the horses drew closer and they could hear what sounded like a wagon, or maybe a stagecoach, and then a splash as something hit the water.

Releasing Donna but keeping a hand on her back, D leaned over the railing peering into the water. Seeing nothing he stood up and turned to see his wife smiling broadly at him.

“Don’t tell me the big, bad F.B.I. agent believes in ghosts,” she practically laughed at him.

Pulling her into his arms, he said, “Not anymore than you were, beautiful.” He pressed a kiss to her mouth. “Maybe you’d rather have someone else here with you to scare the spookies away,” he joked.

“Not in you’re life,” Donna declared placing her hands on the side of his face. “You’re the one that I want.” There lips met in a passionate kiss as the yacht sailed through the dark moonlit waters.

Nice...I'm likin' D and Donna's special boat trip! Who's next???

Maybe the Captain turned on a recording. I can't wait to get back to the others. This is so original.

Ooooh, I'm liking this!! And I'm liking D and Donna enjoying their special time together, they really deserve it!

Maybe - he did disappear very suddenly. Then again this is fanficland, and it is Halloween, so maybe he didn't .........!

Thanks for the it's going to get creepy warning! Sheesh, didn't realise that you updated a lot.

Great job so far! Liked the Myles/Lucy bit...although, I must say, Myles and Tara just make so much more sense to me...hmmm...

It would be hilarious (or freaky, I suppose) if D and Donna find out that their captain has been dead for a few years or something....

JoM

Thanks for your understanding and giving me a few days to recover. I'm still sore but at least I'm able to put more into the stories.
---
Tara and Stanley had enjoyed their dinner together atop the Pavilion Tower watching the lights of downtown sparkle. Jiminy Cricket had come back to check on them each time carrying more delectable delights. They’d just finished eating their Mascarpone Torte and were enjoying a cup of French Vanilla coffee.

“Hmm, that was delicious,” Tara sighed, licking the last bits of unsweetened cocoa from her fork.

“If you want another, I’m sure he’ll bring you one,” Stanley smiled. “You’ve had that man wrapped around your finger all night.”

“What’s the matter sweetheart? Jealous?” Tara cooed reaching for his hand across the table.

Before Stanley could respond the elevator alarm sounded putting Tara on alert. Further heightening her anxiety, the elevator doors opened part way then shut only to open again and shut. Moving towards the elevator never taking her eyes off the doors, she subconsciously reached for her sidearm which wasn’t there. Stanley followed close behind her his hand ready to pull her back if needed.

As they got closer to the elevator, they could see that it was empty. The light flashed on and off as the doors continued their steady cadence. Stanley and Tara stood watching their eyes wide in disbelief until the doors finally closed for the last time.

“We didn’t just see that,” Tara whispered her face mirroring the shock in Stanley’s.

“That was something for Mulder and Scully,” Stanley admitted taking her hand in his as they looked back at the door almost afraid it would open again.

“Is everything to your satisfaction?” Stanley and Tara spun around as Jiminy Cricket came out of the tower her hand reaching again for her missing weapon. Realizing it was just their host, both of them released the breath they were holding.

“Uh, well, um,” Tara stammered, looking at Stanley not quite knowing how to explain what they saw.

“The elevator just freaked out!” Stanley exclaimed quickly slightly embarrassed.

“Oh, the building’s always had problems with the elevator,” the old man stated moving over to the rail.

“I don’t think you understand,” Tara explained excitedly. “The alarm went off and the doors were opening and closing again and again.”

“I’m sorry about that,” he said simply turning to face them. “Legend has it that the spirit of the former Postmaster General who fell to his death in the elevator shaft on the day it opened continues to haunt the building. People talk about alarms going off with no one in the car and even the tower bells ringing on their own.” He pointed to the big bells they could see in the tower. “They even claim when the doors open between floors it’s the old Postmaster.”

“Oh,” Tara stated a chill crawling up her spine. Stanley put his arm around her shoulders pulling her close. I think I’m ready to go home, Tara thought not sure if she believed the old man or if all of this had something to do with Halloween night.

Hmm... ya think Garrett paid Jiminy to creep them out too? lol. Well, whatever the reason, it was well done. Keep up the awesome work!!

Nice spooky touch. I can't wait to get back to Jack and Sue. hint,hint, hint.

Yowser - creepy stuff

So now things are getting a little spooky for both D/D and T/S - wonder how the others are faring?

Wow, KH, spooky stuff mingled with romance...what's there not to love. More please.

Johnny Rockets diner provided ample entertainment and lost of laughs while Bobby and Darcy enjoyed their meal compliments of Ted Garrett. For Bobby, a Slappy’s regular, the dining at Johnny Rockets was equivalent to a 5 start restaurant without the suit and tie.

After midnight already the Union Station concourse was practically deserted as they made their way back to the escalators for the Metro. Darcy paused to admire some old photographs of the station and train yard when she heard a strange noise.

Looking at Bobby, she could tell he was hearing it too. Always the investigative reporter, Darcy grabbed his hand and pulled him in the direction of the noise. They hadn’t said a word to each other was they twisted and turned through the dark corridors though Bobby wished he’d brought his gun.

“It’s just a train,” Bobby said coming to a stop when it became evident to him what the noise was.

“But the tracks and the train yard are on the other side of the station,” she told him pulling his hand. He realized Darcy was right and that the train noise should be getting quieter not louder. Following her, he kept his well-trained eyes focused for anything out of the ordinary.

They finally came to the end of the corridor where there were no windows or additional doors. The noise was getting deafening. They placed their hands over their ears, Bobby protectively pulling her close.

Suddenly the noise was gone and the corridor was quiet again. Bobby and Darcy looked at each other dumbfounded. Had they both been hearing things, they wondered.

A picture on the wall beside them caught Darcy’s attention. When she walked over to in, Bobby followed reading the inscription over her shoulder.

THE WRECK OF THE FEDERAL EXPRESS
In 1953 we witnessed what was perhaps the most spectacular modern runaway passenger train wreck: The wreck of the Federal Express, November 1, 1953, at Washington, D.C.'s Union Station. The exact time of the occurrence--12:38AM--was forever etched in history by the clock in the Station Master's office, which was located at the end of Track 16 previously located at the end of this corridor and demolished by the 1500+ ton juggernaut when it passed through at a speed estimated to be between 35-50 MPH. Miraculously, no one was killed on the train or in the station.*

Darcy looked at her watch noticing it had the same time as the Station Master’s clock next to the picture. Looking at each other then back to the picture, they quickly turned on their heels and walked briskly out the way the came. Anxious to get back to the Metro and out of there, both silently vowed never to speak of this again.

* Modified from The Potomac Rail News 1999

WOAH

Talk about a ... night not to forget!

Good descriptions!

Cassie

fnatastic ghost story!

*shudders* Oh, my....your scenes are so descriptive! I think I'm going to have to start reading the rest of your story during daylight hours...