kav
Full Version: Opt. 2 - Valentine Advent - Audiokim
RomanceFanFiction.net > The Highlights - A Place To Start > Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > 2007 Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > Valentine's Day Challenge 2007
You continue to write brilliantly. I can feel Jack and Sue's love grower stronger and stronger with every post.
kav
kav
I love the openess of the relationship that they have through this chocolate advent.
Thanks for the warm replies! You guys are great. Here's your chocolate for the evening. 
Sarah Anne gazed at the computer screen for the millionth time since Lucy had e-mailed her on Sunday. I was afraid that you might not believe me when I told you things were going well. So, I decided to send you proof. A picture is worth a thousand words, they say. Lucy. She was unsure if she would ever be able to repay Lucy for the gift she had given an old woman who sometimes wondered if she pushed too hard.
Tears filled Sarah Anne’s eyes as she looked at the picture of the young couple, blissfully sleeping in each others embrace. She could feel the love radiating from the picture. She hadn’t pushed too hard. She had only nudged them in the direction God intended them to go. That picture captured, suspended in time, the embrace of two people who would love and cherish each other for a lifetime.
She smelled Whit’s aftershave as he walked up behind her. She smiled as he leaned over her shoulder, gently kissing her cheek. She turned to gaze into his brown eyes, still filled with so much love even after 59 years. She pointed to the picture. “Have you ever seen two people more in love Whit?”
She watched as his eyes soften and his lips curled into a tender smile. “Yep.” She gave him a quizzical look. “If you remember Mrs. Jackson, that happens to be the position we wake up in every morning and have for the past 59 years.”
Sarah Anne smiled. “I guess your right Whit.” She reached up and tenderly stroked the age-lined face. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.” She felt his breath on her cheek as he leaned closer, brushing a tender kiss across her lips. She cupped his face in her hands and pulled him closer when he started to back away. The kiss started out slow and tender, but became passionate, proving to her muddled brain that there was still a spark despite the gray hairs, age spots and wrinkled faces.
“So,” Whit said as she watched him gasping for air. “It looks like Jonah has made it to Ninnevah. What is Big Fish going to do now?”
Sarah Anne laughed. Her mind drifted back to the conversation she had with Lucy and to the linger looks she had seen shared by a certain Australian and computer whiz. “Oh, Jack’s journey isn’t over yet. He could still chicken out right up to the time he slips the wedding ring on Sue’s finger. After that…Well let’s just say there are a couple more Jonahs out there that might need a Big Fish.”
Whit shook his head. His wonderful, big hearted wife would never learn and never give up. And he wouldn’t have it any other way. She would probably be matchmaking until the day she died. He silently prayed for years and years of matchmaking to come.
*************
Lucy smiled as Jack and Sue entered the Bullpen on Monday morning. Those two are something else, she thought. She had worked and stressed and prayed for the day that her best friend and the dark-eyed agent would admit their feelings for one another. After more than three years, it had finally happened. The reality of watching their relationship unfold, growing stronger and sweeter with each passing day, was better than she could have ever dreamed of.
She watched as Jack helped Sue off with her coat, brushing a light kiss across her cheek. She saw the pretty blush rise in Sue’s cheeks just before her best friend squeezed Jack’s hand. She felt a slight twinge of envy at the tiny gestures that gently proved to the rest of the world that they were meant to be. She wanted a love like they had.
Her eyes gazed around the room, coming to rest on a sandy haired agent. Myles had changed a lot over the past three years. And yet, she was still so unsure of her feelings for him. She had hated him when he cheated. But slowly, that hatred became softer, mellowing into a dislike before slowly dissolving into a respect. Now, she could honestly say she liked the man. She didn’t always like the sarcastic tongue, but she genuinely liked the man. She wondered if the “like” was slowly evolving into something more. Her mind drifted back to her conversation with Grandma Sparky.
“Have you forgiven him, Lucy?” Sarah Anne asked.
“Yes. I think I forgave him a long time ago,” Lucy sighed. It was true. Somewhere deep inside, she knew she had forgiven him years ago.
“Have you told him that?”
Lucy searched her memory bank. Had she told him? She felt sure she had shown him, but had she told him? “No,” she whispered.
“Tell him,” Sarah Anne said. “He doesn’t know where he stands unless you tell him you forgive him. You won’t know where you stand until you see his reaction to your words. Tell him.”
Tell him. The words had haunted Lucy all weekend. She stared at Myles sitting across the Bullpen from her. He was laughing at a joke Bobby had just told. He was so much more laid back and accessible than he had been before Sue entered their lives. No time like the present, she thought.
Lucy picked up a file he would be needing and headed towards Myles' desk. It was a good cover. She wasn’t quite ready to let the rest of the team in on her changing heart just yet. She slowly approached his desk. She laid the file on his desk. She waited until his blue eyes met her gaze. She gave him a tender smile. “I forgive you, Myles,” she whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
***********
Sue watched as Jack threw Levi’s bunny across the room, playing a morning game of fetch with the Wonder Dog. She smiled as Jack lovingly scratched Levi’s ears. She could see the same devotion reflected in both sets of brown eyes. Jack accepted Levi as so much more than just her service dog. She knew Jack loved Levi as much as she did. The morning’s Valentine treasure proved that.
She glanced down at the charm with the golden retriever head delicately etched on top. It looked so much like Levi. Her eyes misted as her mind drifted back to the note and the tears in Jack’s eyes as he explained.
After sharing the chocolate box, Sue picked up the note and opened it. Sue, I want you to know that you have my whole heart. But, there is a small piece that also belongs to Levi. Without his nudges and intentional missteps, there would have been days that I wouldn’t have felt your tender touch. Even if it was under the guise of steadying yourself or pulling Levi away. I will be forever grateful to him. She turned to Jack and smiled. “Thank you Jack. It’s beautiful.”
She wrinkled her forehead in confusion as Jack bent and gently covered Levi’s ears. “I don’t want him to hear the rest of this,” he chuckled.
Sue watched as Jack’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Sue, I know there will come a day when Levi will no longer be here in body. But that charm will remind us both that he will be here in spirit. When that time comes, I know it will be hard. But I want you to know you can lean on me Sue. I’ll be your ears when Levi can’t.”
Levi’s cold nose against her hand brought her back to the present. She wiped the tears that blurred her vision as she gazed into his trusting brown eyes. She raised her head and looked towards Jack. She saw him watching her, the same trust, devotion and love in his brown eyes. She wouldn’t dwell on what she knew the future would hold without Levi. That would be years away. For now, she would hold on to the fact that she had two brown eyed devoted men in her life whom she loved very much. When the time came, she knew Jack would be there. Always.
More later
Kim
Sarah Anne gazed at the computer screen for the millionth time since Lucy had e-mailed her on Sunday. I was afraid that you might not believe me when I told you things were going well. So, I decided to send you proof. A picture is worth a thousand words, they say. Lucy. She was unsure if she would ever be able to repay Lucy for the gift she had given an old woman who sometimes wondered if she pushed too hard.
Tears filled Sarah Anne’s eyes as she looked at the picture of the young couple, blissfully sleeping in each others embrace. She could feel the love radiating from the picture. She hadn’t pushed too hard. She had only nudged them in the direction God intended them to go. That picture captured, suspended in time, the embrace of two people who would love and cherish each other for a lifetime.
She smelled Whit’s aftershave as he walked up behind her. She smiled as he leaned over her shoulder, gently kissing her cheek. She turned to gaze into his brown eyes, still filled with so much love even after 59 years. She pointed to the picture. “Have you ever seen two people more in love Whit?”
She watched as his eyes soften and his lips curled into a tender smile. “Yep.” She gave him a quizzical look. “If you remember Mrs. Jackson, that happens to be the position we wake up in every morning and have for the past 59 years.”
Sarah Anne smiled. “I guess your right Whit.” She reached up and tenderly stroked the age-lined face. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.” She felt his breath on her cheek as he leaned closer, brushing a tender kiss across her lips. She cupped his face in her hands and pulled him closer when he started to back away. The kiss started out slow and tender, but became passionate, proving to her muddled brain that there was still a spark despite the gray hairs, age spots and wrinkled faces.
“So,” Whit said as she watched him gasping for air. “It looks like Jonah has made it to Ninnevah. What is Big Fish going to do now?”
Sarah Anne laughed. Her mind drifted back to the conversation she had with Lucy and to the linger looks she had seen shared by a certain Australian and computer whiz. “Oh, Jack’s journey isn’t over yet. He could still chicken out right up to the time he slips the wedding ring on Sue’s finger. After that…Well let’s just say there are a couple more Jonahs out there that might need a Big Fish.”
Whit shook his head. His wonderful, big hearted wife would never learn and never give up. And he wouldn’t have it any other way. She would probably be matchmaking until the day she died. He silently prayed for years and years of matchmaking to come.
*************
Lucy smiled as Jack and Sue entered the Bullpen on Monday morning. Those two are something else, she thought. She had worked and stressed and prayed for the day that her best friend and the dark-eyed agent would admit their feelings for one another. After more than three years, it had finally happened. The reality of watching their relationship unfold, growing stronger and sweeter with each passing day, was better than she could have ever dreamed of.
She watched as Jack helped Sue off with her coat, brushing a light kiss across her cheek. She saw the pretty blush rise in Sue’s cheeks just before her best friend squeezed Jack’s hand. She felt a slight twinge of envy at the tiny gestures that gently proved to the rest of the world that they were meant to be. She wanted a love like they had.
Her eyes gazed around the room, coming to rest on a sandy haired agent. Myles had changed a lot over the past three years. And yet, she was still so unsure of her feelings for him. She had hated him when he cheated. But slowly, that hatred became softer, mellowing into a dislike before slowly dissolving into a respect. Now, she could honestly say she liked the man. She didn’t always like the sarcastic tongue, but she genuinely liked the man. She wondered if the “like” was slowly evolving into something more. Her mind drifted back to her conversation with Grandma Sparky.
“Have you forgiven him, Lucy?” Sarah Anne asked.
“Yes. I think I forgave him a long time ago,” Lucy sighed. It was true. Somewhere deep inside, she knew she had forgiven him years ago.
“Have you told him that?”
Lucy searched her memory bank. Had she told him? She felt sure she had shown him, but had she told him? “No,” she whispered.
“Tell him,” Sarah Anne said. “He doesn’t know where he stands unless you tell him you forgive him. You won’t know where you stand until you see his reaction to your words. Tell him.”
Tell him. The words had haunted Lucy all weekend. She stared at Myles sitting across the Bullpen from her. He was laughing at a joke Bobby had just told. He was so much more laid back and accessible than he had been before Sue entered their lives. No time like the present, she thought.
Lucy picked up a file he would be needing and headed towards Myles' desk. It was a good cover. She wasn’t quite ready to let the rest of the team in on her changing heart just yet. She slowly approached his desk. She laid the file on his desk. She waited until his blue eyes met her gaze. She gave him a tender smile. “I forgive you, Myles,” she whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
***********
Sue watched as Jack threw Levi’s bunny across the room, playing a morning game of fetch with the Wonder Dog. She smiled as Jack lovingly scratched Levi’s ears. She could see the same devotion reflected in both sets of brown eyes. Jack accepted Levi as so much more than just her service dog. She knew Jack loved Levi as much as she did. The morning’s Valentine treasure proved that.
She glanced down at the charm with the golden retriever head delicately etched on top. It looked so much like Levi. Her eyes misted as her mind drifted back to the note and the tears in Jack’s eyes as he explained.
After sharing the chocolate box, Sue picked up the note and opened it. Sue, I want you to know that you have my whole heart. But, there is a small piece that also belongs to Levi. Without his nudges and intentional missteps, there would have been days that I wouldn’t have felt your tender touch. Even if it was under the guise of steadying yourself or pulling Levi away. I will be forever grateful to him. She turned to Jack and smiled. “Thank you Jack. It’s beautiful.”
She wrinkled her forehead in confusion as Jack bent and gently covered Levi’s ears. “I don’t want him to hear the rest of this,” he chuckled.
Sue watched as Jack’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Sue, I know there will come a day when Levi will no longer be here in body. But that charm will remind us both that he will be here in spirit. When that time comes, I know it will be hard. But I want you to know you can lean on me Sue. I’ll be your ears when Levi can’t.”
Levi’s cold nose against her hand brought her back to the present. She wiped the tears that blurred her vision as she gazed into his trusting brown eyes. She raised her head and looked towards Jack. She saw him watching her, the same trust, devotion and love in his brown eyes. She wouldn’t dwell on what she knew the future would hold without Levi. That would be years away. For now, she would hold on to the fact that she had two brown eyed devoted men in her life whom she loved very much. When the time came, she knew Jack would be there. Always.
More later
Kim
once again...Kim I guess I will need to solidify before tomorrow!
What a inspiration Whit and Sarah Anne are. Your line about the gray hair, age spots and wrinkles was perfect.
I sighed with pleasure when Lucy told Myles that she forgave him. I think this would be a great scene to see acted out.
The retriever charm was so appropriate. I can't help thinking that this chocolate advent activity would make a great premarital counseling exercise for any engaged couple.
I sighed with pleasure when Lucy told Myles that she forgave him. I think this would be a great scene to see acted out.
The retriever charm was so appropriate. I can't help thinking that this chocolate advent activity would make a great premarital counseling exercise for any engaged couple.
QUOTE
Sarah Anne laughed. Her mind drifted back to the conversation she had with Lucy and to the linger looks she had seen shared by a certain Australian and computer whiz. “Oh, Jack’s journey isn’t over yet. He could still chicken out right up to the time he slips the wedding ring on Sue’s finger. After that…Well let’s just say there are a couple more Jonahs out there that might need a Big Fish.”
Those other Jonahs better watch out. Grandma Sparky is on a mission!
QUOTE
She gave him a tender smile. “I forgive you, Myles,” she whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
Beautiful
There's a real hope for them.QUOTE
Sue watched as Jack’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Sue, I know there will come a day when Levi will no longer be here in body. But that charm will remind us both that he will be here in spirit. When that time comes, I know it will be hard. But I want you to know you can lean on me Sue. I’ll be your ears when Levi can’t.”
The thought of Levi no longer being with them just brings tears to my eyes, but what Jack said was so touching.
You're doing an amazing job with this story!
I couldn't help but think how sad it will be for Grams or Gramps to someday face life without the other, too. I already had tears in my eyes from that thought when you put this in.
Too sweet and beautiful.
It reminded me of one of the most painful realities of loving someone -- man or beast -- and the importance of enjoying every moment you have together.
QUOTE
She wrinkled her forehead in confusion as Jack bent and gently covered Levi’s ears. “I don’t want him to hear the rest of this,” he chuckled.
Sue watched as Jack’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Sue, I know there will come a day when Levi will no longer be here in body. But that charm will remind us both that he will be here in spirit. When that time comes, I know it will be hard. But I want you to know you can lean on me Sue. I’ll be your ears when Levi can’t.”
Sue watched as Jack’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “Sue, I know there will come a day when Levi will no longer be here in body. But that charm will remind us both that he will be here in spirit. When that time comes, I know it will be hard. But I want you to know you can lean on me Sue. I’ll be your ears when Levi can’t.”
Too sweet and beautiful. It reminded me of one of the most painful realities of loving someone -- man or beast -- and the importance of enjoying every moment you have together.
That story continues to be so beautiful ... amazing writing, Kim !
I had some catching up to do, but this story continues to be so sweet and loving Kim. I'm enjoying it so much. I love the Italian Charm bracelet and Jack's letters each day. How sweet it is, along with the chocolate. 
another beautiful post
cath
cath
WOW....Jack's feeling showing day by day....amazing....
~laura michelle~
~laura michelle~
Oh, Kim, such a wonderful, heartfelt post.
This made me get all emotional. To see how much Lucy's apology affected him was so comforting. I think Myles might be getting his rear in gear and getting ready to do something about the woman he let slip away.
QUOTE
Lucy picked up a file he would be needing and headed towards Myles' desk. It was a good cover. She wasn’t quite ready to let the rest of the team in on her changing heart just yet. She slowly approached his desk. She laid the file on his desk. She waited until his blue eyes met her gaze. She gave him a tender smile. “I forgive you, Myles,” she whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
She watched as those blue eyes widened in disbelief then cloud with unshed tears. A shy smile crossed his usually cocky lips. “Thank you,” he whispered.
This made me get all emotional. To see how much Lucy's apology affected him was so comforting. I think Myles might be getting his rear in gear and getting ready to do something about the woman he let slip away.
wonderful post -- so warm and heartfelt!
Donna
Donna
I love this story!!!!
QUOTE(audiokim @ Feb 5 2007, 03:10 AM) 
She wrinkled her forehead in confusion as Jack bent and gently covered Levi’s ears. “I don’t want him to hear the rest of this,” he chuckled.
o my god...that's what i do when people around me start talking about the fact that my dogg isn't going to be around here for long anymore...well pfff he doesn't need to hear it, and i think he is going to stay here for a long while.
beautiful written kim
Another beautiful post!
I found Myles' reaction to Lucy telling him she's forgiven him quite touching!
Thanks,
Tracy
I found Myles' reaction to Lucy telling him she's forgiven him quite touching!
Thanks,
Tracy
There is a lot of promise in the acceptance Myles gave to Lucy's forgiveness!! I'm going to watch that!!!
Jack is just so..........!! It brought tears to my eyes when he told her he would take care of her when Levi is gone!! Kim, each one of your chocolate boxes touches another very important part of a relationship!! It's absolutely beautiful!!!
Joy
Jack is just so..........!! It brought tears to my eyes when he told her he would take care of her when Levi is gone!! Kim, each one of your chocolate boxes touches another very important part of a relationship!! It's absolutely beautiful!!!
Joy
Kim that was so beautiful the love of granma and grampa hudson is wonderful and jack really must take after him in all ways more soon please Kim
Have I thanked you guys for taking the time to read this? If not, then allow me to thank you now. Once again the bolded words are and English translation of ASL
Sue smiled as she slid into the booth at their favorite breakfast spot on Tuesday morning. It had been an amazing journey so far. Each of Jack’s gifts and the precious glimpse of his heart each note held made her fall more deeply in love with him. Yet there was a twinge of guilt. She had his gifts for Valentine’s Day safely tucked away, but she felt as if she should be giving him more, giving him the love that he was giving her.
Monday night had meant a stakeout for Jack and a shopping spree for Sue. She loved spending each evening with him, but she needed time to prepare his surprises. Last night had been the opportunity she was waiting for. Everything was ready, wrapped up tight and waiting. Today, she would show Jack a little of her heart. She wouldn’t be the only one unwrapping a hidden treasure.
Sue smiled at the shock on Jack’s face when she presented him with the small box after sharing her chocolate treasure with him. “What’s this?” he asked.
“Open it,” she signed. She felt the thrilling sensation of anticipation as she watched him carefully unwrap the tiny treasure.
“They're beautiful, Sue.” She watched as Jack closely examined the gold cufflinks he held in his hand. She knew the moment he noticed the engraving as his eyes widened and a single tear trickled down his cheek. She smiled as he tenderly traced the tiny heart on each on, her name delicately engraved in the center of each.
“Now the note,” she gently ordered. She clutched the handkerchief in her hand as Jack unfolded the note and began to read.
My Darling,
I will never be able to tell you how much this precious Valentine’s journey means to me. Each day, you offer me another glimpse at the wonderful heart I fell in love with long ago. Now it’s my turn to show you a glimpse of my heart. You had my heart a long time ago. You have it yesterday, today and forever. I love you, Jack. Always.
Sue watched as Jack read the note, the tears falling unheeded from his eyes. She reached over and pressed the handkerchief into his hand as she retrieved another from her purse. She wiped her eyes as they met his watery ones. “Prepared are you, Thomas?” he smiled.
Sue leaned forward and pressed her hand against his chest. Even through his shirt, she could feel the steady rhythm of his heart beating against her hand. Again she was amazed that it matched the rhythm of her own. “Yep,” she smiled. Her gaze soften as she watched him dab his eyes. “I know your heart, Jack. It’s tender and soft and mine forever.”
She felt his gentle lips against her fingertips as he pressed a kiss against her hand. “And I know yours, Sue. It’s compassionate and kind and mine forever.”
***************
Jack smiled as he watched Sue and Lucy quietly giggling over the latest bit of Bullpen gossip. Girl talk, he rolled his eyes. He chuckled as he glanced over at Bobby, thinking back to all the “guy talk” they had shared over the years. It was just something that best friends did.
He felt a slight twinge of regret as he realized that was not necessarily the truth. He did think of Bobby as his best friend. They had shared laughs and tears over the years, yet he had shared more with Sue over the past three than he had will Bobby in the ten plus years they had been friends. He had shared all his secrets, even the ones he kept deeply buried. He had revealed all his hurts, all his unfulfilled dreams, every aspect of his life. He knew she had done the same, sharing with him all her fears, all the hurts she endured at the hands of people who didn’t understand. She told him things that she admitted she had never shared with anyone.
He returned his gaze to Sue, her charm bracelet twinkling in the light. He smiled as he remember the charm he placed there just hours ago. Best friends was engraved on the flat metal link. That’s what they were, the best of best friends. His heart swelled with love as the realization sunk in. In one week, he would ask her the biggest question of his life. If she accepted, then he would be marrying his best friend in the very near future. I can’t wait, he grinned.
More later
Kim
Sue smiled as she slid into the booth at their favorite breakfast spot on Tuesday morning. It had been an amazing journey so far. Each of Jack’s gifts and the precious glimpse of his heart each note held made her fall more deeply in love with him. Yet there was a twinge of guilt. She had his gifts for Valentine’s Day safely tucked away, but she felt as if she should be giving him more, giving him the love that he was giving her.
Monday night had meant a stakeout for Jack and a shopping spree for Sue. She loved spending each evening with him, but she needed time to prepare his surprises. Last night had been the opportunity she was waiting for. Everything was ready, wrapped up tight and waiting. Today, she would show Jack a little of her heart. She wouldn’t be the only one unwrapping a hidden treasure.
Sue smiled at the shock on Jack’s face when she presented him with the small box after sharing her chocolate treasure with him. “What’s this?” he asked.
“Open it,” she signed. She felt the thrilling sensation of anticipation as she watched him carefully unwrap the tiny treasure.
“They're beautiful, Sue.” She watched as Jack closely examined the gold cufflinks he held in his hand. She knew the moment he noticed the engraving as his eyes widened and a single tear trickled down his cheek. She smiled as he tenderly traced the tiny heart on each on, her name delicately engraved in the center of each.
“Now the note,” she gently ordered. She clutched the handkerchief in her hand as Jack unfolded the note and began to read.
My Darling,
I will never be able to tell you how much this precious Valentine’s journey means to me. Each day, you offer me another glimpse at the wonderful heart I fell in love with long ago. Now it’s my turn to show you a glimpse of my heart. You had my heart a long time ago. You have it yesterday, today and forever. I love you, Jack. Always.
Sue watched as Jack read the note, the tears falling unheeded from his eyes. She reached over and pressed the handkerchief into his hand as she retrieved another from her purse. She wiped her eyes as they met his watery ones. “Prepared are you, Thomas?” he smiled.
Sue leaned forward and pressed her hand against his chest. Even through his shirt, she could feel the steady rhythm of his heart beating against her hand. Again she was amazed that it matched the rhythm of her own. “Yep,” she smiled. Her gaze soften as she watched him dab his eyes. “I know your heart, Jack. It’s tender and soft and mine forever.”
She felt his gentle lips against her fingertips as he pressed a kiss against her hand. “And I know yours, Sue. It’s compassionate and kind and mine forever.”
***************
Jack smiled as he watched Sue and Lucy quietly giggling over the latest bit of Bullpen gossip. Girl talk, he rolled his eyes. He chuckled as he glanced over at Bobby, thinking back to all the “guy talk” they had shared over the years. It was just something that best friends did.
He felt a slight twinge of regret as he realized that was not necessarily the truth. He did think of Bobby as his best friend. They had shared laughs and tears over the years, yet he had shared more with Sue over the past three than he had will Bobby in the ten plus years they had been friends. He had shared all his secrets, even the ones he kept deeply buried. He had revealed all his hurts, all his unfulfilled dreams, every aspect of his life. He knew she had done the same, sharing with him all her fears, all the hurts she endured at the hands of people who didn’t understand. She told him things that she admitted she had never shared with anyone.
He returned his gaze to Sue, her charm bracelet twinkling in the light. He smiled as he remember the charm he placed there just hours ago. Best friends was engraved on the flat metal link. That’s what they were, the best of best friends. His heart swelled with love as the realization sunk in. In one week, he would ask her the biggest question of his life. If she accepted, then he would be marrying his best friend in the very near future. I can’t wait, he grinned.
More later
Kim
QUOTE
He smiled as he remember the charm he placed there just hours ago. Best friends was engraved on the flat metal link. That’s what they were, the best of best friends. His heart swelled with love as the realization sunk in. In one week, he would ask her the biggest question of his life. If she accepted, then he would be marrying his best friend in the very near future. I can’t wait, he grinned
I can't wait either!!! That was wonderful!
I love that Sue reciprocated and gave Jack glimpses into her heart. This is a truly blessed journey. Amazing!
QUOTE
He returned his gaze to Sue, her charm bracelet twinkling in the light. He smiled as he remember the charm he placed there just hours ago. Best friends was engraved on the flat metal link. That’s what they were, the best of best friends. His heart swelled with love as the realization sunk in. In one week, he would ask her the biggest question of his life. If she accepted, then he would be marrying his best friend in the very near future. I can’t wait, he grinned.
There's nothing better than marrying your best friend! You are bringing their love alive for us. Thank you.
So special that she gave him something back today 
WOW! I am seriously playing catch up. I love the whole box of chocolate idea you have going here. very creative, I never would have thought of it. And the turtle boy thing was just perfect, very fitting for Mr. Jackson Hudson. Keep going!
That was perfect...can't wait to see what else they give each other...
~laura michelle~
~laura michelle~
cath
Kim that was wonderful Lin
When you wrote that Jack had been on a stakeout, it was a good reminder that these beautiful interludes between them are intertwined with the other aspects of their lives.
It was touching to follow Jack's reactions as he received her gift and to be privy to his reflections that Sue was indeed his best friend, and they always say that you should marry your best friend.
It was touching to follow Jack's reactions as he received her gift and to be privy to his reflections that Sue was indeed his best friend, and they always say that you should marry your best friend.
Trust me, we can't wait either.
Kim, you are very welcome! I absolutely love this story. It warms my heart each time I read your post for the day. You're doing absolutely wonderful with this and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
Kim, you are very welcome! I absolutely love this story. It warms my heart each time I read your post for the day. You're doing absolutely wonderful with this and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
QUOTE(audiokim @ Feb 5 2007, 09:52 PM)
He returned his gaze to Sue, her charm bracelet twinkling in the light. He smiled as he remember the charm he placed there just hours ago. Best friends was engraved on the flat metal link. That’s what they were, the best of best friends. His heart swelled with love as the realization sunk in. In one week, he would ask her the biggest question of his life. If she accepted, then he would be marrying his best friend in the very near future. I can’t wait, he grinned.
How beautiful!Thank you so much for writing this amazing story and sharing it!
Tracy
The love that weaves through this tale is amazing!!!
Joy
Joy
I alot of reading to catch up and believe me I was in awe. I when Sue give her gift to him. You are doing an writing and it is !
Keep it up, girl!
Cisty
when Sue give her gift to him. You are doing an writing and it is !Keep it up, girl!
Cisty
Only one more week!!!! Can't wait!!!
Can't wait!!!
Sarah Anne rolled her eyes. Valentine’s Day was still six days away and Jackson Hudson was going to drive her absolutely bonkers before the day arrived. “Jack,” she said patiently into the phone receiver. She groaned as her voice was swallowed up by the sound of the anxiety in his voice. “Jack. Jack! JACK!” she yelled.
She sniggered as she finally caught his attention. “Ma’am?”
“Jack, just calm down. Everything is under control.”
“Did Lucy send…”
“Yes Jack,” Sarah Anne signed with an air of exasperation. God, I want you to make sure Jack Hudson had children and grandchildren that worry him to death like he is worrying me. “Lucy sent everything she was supposed to. They are hanging side by side in the extra closet.”
“Did you…”
“Jack! How many times do I have to tell you everything is under control? By Valentine’s Day, everything will be perfect. You have six more days. Enjoy them Jack. Leave everything else to me. You just get Sue here in one piece, you hear?” Sarah Anne quickly hung up the phone before Jack could say another word. For someone with a turtle streak, Jack sure has turned into a racehorse. Sarah Anne shook her head, a gentle smile on her face. Her grandson was excited, ecstatic, thrilled, and a regular pain in the backside over the plans. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
****************
Sue gasped as she held the angel charm in her hand. “Jack, it’s gorgeous!” She smiled at Jack and handed him the charm and the bracelet.
As he attached the newest charm, Sue opened the note in his familiar handwriting and began to read. Sweetheart, If I have come to believe in anything over these past few years since you stormed into my life, it is that angels do exist. You ask me how I know. It is quite simple. Dan, Tony, Simon, all the times when you should have been taken from me, and you are still here. To me, that proves that Someone is watching over you even when I can’t. Then, there is the fact that I have met an angel in the flesh. She had flowing blonde hair, captivating hazel eyes, and a heart big enough to love the whole world, yet she has chosen to let her heart love me. She is you, Sue. You are my angel.
Sue laughed through her tears. She raised watery eyes to Jack, watching as his brows furrowed in question. “Is the note that bad?” he asked.
Sue smiled. “It’s not that Jack. It’s just…” she reached into her purse and withdrew his treasure. “Here. I think this will explain.”
She watched as Jack unwrapped the tiny box. She saw his face dissolve into a gentle smile as he lifted the key chain with an angel engraved on one side. “Now read the note.”
Jack obediently unfolded the note. She smiled as his eyes misted with tears and his shoulders shook with laughter that she felt sure was echoing around the room. She knew what the note contained, but she reveled in seeing them again in his eyes. Darling, With your experiences with cars and the Potomac River, I have a feeling you need all the help you can get. Seriously, Jack. You are my protector, my guardian angel. You have saved me on more than a few occasions, flying to my rescue without thought of life or limb. I thank you for that. But there is something more. In your arms, I feel safe, secure and protected. In your arms, I’m home.
Sue leaned over and wiped the tears from his cheeks. “I love you, Jack.”
“I love you, too.”
She closed her eyes in anticipation as she felt Jack lean closer, his breath caressing her senses. She felt his soft lips brush the tears from her eyes as they descended in the softest hint of a kiss. She felt her heart pounding in her chest as he grazed her cheeks before pressing a soft, lingering to her lips. It was a kiss filled with tenderness, speaking of a love that time would never erase.
More later
Kim
She sniggered as she finally caught his attention. “Ma’am?”
“Jack, just calm down. Everything is under control.”
“Did Lucy send…”
“Yes Jack,” Sarah Anne signed with an air of exasperation. God, I want you to make sure Jack Hudson had children and grandchildren that worry him to death like he is worrying me. “Lucy sent everything she was supposed to. They are hanging side by side in the extra closet.”
“Did you…”
“Jack! How many times do I have to tell you everything is under control? By Valentine’s Day, everything will be perfect. You have six more days. Enjoy them Jack. Leave everything else to me. You just get Sue here in one piece, you hear?” Sarah Anne quickly hung up the phone before Jack could say another word. For someone with a turtle streak, Jack sure has turned into a racehorse. Sarah Anne shook her head, a gentle smile on her face. Her grandson was excited, ecstatic, thrilled, and a regular pain in the backside over the plans. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
****************
Sue gasped as she held the angel charm in her hand. “Jack, it’s gorgeous!” She smiled at Jack and handed him the charm and the bracelet.
As he attached the newest charm, Sue opened the note in his familiar handwriting and began to read. Sweetheart, If I have come to believe in anything over these past few years since you stormed into my life, it is that angels do exist. You ask me how I know. It is quite simple. Dan, Tony, Simon, all the times when you should have been taken from me, and you are still here. To me, that proves that Someone is watching over you even when I can’t. Then, there is the fact that I have met an angel in the flesh. She had flowing blonde hair, captivating hazel eyes, and a heart big enough to love the whole world, yet she has chosen to let her heart love me. She is you, Sue. You are my angel.
Sue laughed through her tears. She raised watery eyes to Jack, watching as his brows furrowed in question. “Is the note that bad?” he asked.
Sue smiled. “It’s not that Jack. It’s just…” she reached into her purse and withdrew his treasure. “Here. I think this will explain.”
She watched as Jack unwrapped the tiny box. She saw his face dissolve into a gentle smile as he lifted the key chain with an angel engraved on one side. “Now read the note.”
Jack obediently unfolded the note. She smiled as his eyes misted with tears and his shoulders shook with laughter that she felt sure was echoing around the room. She knew what the note contained, but she reveled in seeing them again in his eyes. Darling, With your experiences with cars and the Potomac River, I have a feeling you need all the help you can get. Seriously, Jack. You are my protector, my guardian angel. You have saved me on more than a few occasions, flying to my rescue without thought of life or limb. I thank you for that. But there is something more. In your arms, I feel safe, secure and protected. In your arms, I’m home.
Sue leaned over and wiped the tears from his cheeks. “I love you, Jack.”
“I love you, too.”
She closed her eyes in anticipation as she felt Jack lean closer, his breath caressing her senses. She felt his soft lips brush the tears from her eyes as they descended in the softest hint of a kiss. She felt her heart pounding in her chest as he grazed her cheeks before pressing a soft, lingering to her lips. It was a kiss filled with tenderness, speaking of a love that time would never erase.
More later
Kim
So special and sweet!
WOW....very special....
~laura michelle~
~laura michelle~
Kim, I don't know how you do it everytime, but you've done it again! That was absolutely positively beautiful!
You outdo yourself with every post, Kim ! 
It was thrilling to see that they chose the same theme of an angel for the gifts and letters that they presented to each other. It reminded me of how they chose the jerseys for each other the first Christmas.
So, turtle-turned-racehorse is getting excited about his wedding and driving his gram bonkers. We would be worried for him if that wasn't the case. I agree with Sara Anne, "We wouldn't have it any other way."
Each post is even more endearing than the last, Kim.
So, turtle-turned-racehorse is getting excited about his wedding and driving his gram bonkers. We would be worried for him if that wasn't the case. I agree with Sara Anne, "We wouldn't have it any other way."
Each post is even more endearing than the last, Kim.
QUOTE
God, I want you to make sure Jack Hudson had children and grandchildren that worry him to death like he is worrying me
That line was too funny! I could hear Grandma Sparky thinking that.The angels were perfect.
that was beautiful
cath
cath
Kim that was very beautiful and the 
for each other
was perfect more soon please Lin
for each otherwas perfect more soon please
Lin
QUOTE(Cindy01 @ Feb 7 2007, 03:56 AM)
Kim, I don't know how you do it everytime, but you've done it again! That was absolutely positively beautiful!
I couldn't have said it better myself!
Donna
I love how thier gifts were the same. It's another example of how perfect they are for one another. They think the same and I think they will for the rest of their lives.
QUOTE
I know your heart, Jack. It’s tender and soft and mine forever.”
I love how secure they are in each other's love. It's taken them some time to get there, but they're solid right fromt he start. And I so love this advent idea -- Have you ever done it, Kim? What a wonderful way to let someone know how much you love them!kav
This is perfect, as all of them have been!! I am always amazed how Jack and Sue have always thought alike, from the beginning, on so many things!!!
Joy
Joy
Beautiful!
QUOTE(Kav @ Feb 7 2007, 11:40 AM)
QUOTE
I know your heart, Jack. It’s tender and soft and mine forever.”
And I so love this advent idea -- Have you ever done it, Kim? What a wonderful way to let someone know how much you love them!Unfortunately, no. I have never had the pleasure of recieving or giving such gifts. It's called wishful thinking.
Sue lovingly fingered her newest charm as she composed an e-mail to her mother. Carla Thomas had pushed her to be independent, to not let her deafness stand in the way. Yet, at times, Carla had tried to restrict that independence, stepping in and taking over instead of letting Sue handle things. At times over the years, Sue felt like a yo-yo. “Be independent” her mother would say one minute. “You know you should really do it this way”, she would say the next. So Sue did the logical thing, she retreated, turning to her father to confide her deepest secrets and desires.
When Sue first moved to D.C., she tried to keep Carla at arms length, calling occasionally and visiting rarely. She relished in the true independence she had without her mother’s interference. Then, that first Christmas in D.C., their relationship took a turn for the better. Since that time, Sue was eager to share her life with her mother. If her mother started to control, she would gently redirect the conversation. It was not always easy, but she knew Carla Thomas was trying. And she likes Jack, Sue thought. She can’t be all bad if she likes Jack.
Sue sighed as she signed off the e-mail and pressed the send button. She wished she could see Carla’s face when she opened it. She could imagine her mother wiping the tears from her eyes as she read the gratitude in Sue’s heart. Sue had never thanked her mother for pushing her to be independent. Today, she did.
Sue gazed at the delicate Ohio charm Jack added to her bracelet that morning. It was his tender note that prompted the e-mail to her mom. A tender smile curled her lips as she replayed the words in her mind. Sweetheart, this charm is to remind you of your roots. I know you didn’t always have an easy childhood. I know your relationship with your mother was often strained. But I thank God that you have those roots. They gave you the wings to soar into my life. I will be forever grateful to Ohio and the family who made you the woman who has stolen my heart. With those tender words, Sue realized how much she owed her parents, her mother in particular. It was time to let Carla Thomas know that she was appreciated by a grateful daughter.
**********
D watched as Jack paced his office. “Jack, you are going to wear a hole in the floor if you don’t stop. I’d love to see you explain the hole to Randy.”
D chuckled at the exasperated look Jack sent his way. “Are you sure everything has been arranged?” he asked.
D rubbed a hand over his face, trying to wipe the amusement away. “Jack, it’s only Thursday. Valentine’s Day is still five days away.” He chuckled as Jack groaned. “But yes, everything is arranged. Just be sure you and Sue are packed and ready Tuesday morning.”
D saw Jack exhale, the tension easing from his friend’s shoulders. “I can handle that. Lucy is going to pack Sue’s suitcase and put it in my car in the garage Tuesday morning.”
“Then the rest of us will fly up on Tuesday afternoon.” D laughed out loud as Jack shot him a questioning look. “You don’t think we are going to let you propose to Sue and us not bear witness to it do you? We have watched you to dance around each other for three long, agonizingly long years. We aren’t about to miss this.”
Jack sighed. “Okay. But don’t you guys mess this up.”
“We won’t. Don’t worry.” D smiled. His eyes caught the small robin residing on Jack’s tie. “I didn’t know you were a bird lover, Jack.” He pointed to the tie tack.
“It’s from Sue,” Jack said. D noticed the slight blush creeping up Jack’s cheeks. “She, uh. Well, she wanted to remind me of where I came from. How, how my family shaped me into the man I am today.”
D nodded, suddenly feeling very solemn. “She’s right. Jack, remember where you come from and where you have been. If you ever have any doubts about whether your relationship with Sue is right or not, just remember what your life was like before she was in it. On those rough days when life’s chocolate seems bitter, remember what it was like when you didn’t have the chocolate at all. It definitely puts things into perspective.”
Jack watched as his supervisor and friend’s gaze drifted to an unseen time and place. “Is that how you and Donna have survived all these years?”
“That it is, Jack.”
“I’ll remember.” Jack turned and exited D’s office. He would write his friend’s advice in his memory and pull it out when life’s road got bumpy.
More later
Kim
Awww
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