I've finally written something for a challenge. Even if it is in the eleventh hour. Which means I'll be posting frequently. I hope you all enjoy. I'm single so reading all your stories is how I'm enjoying "Singles Awareness Day"

My Valentine

Monday, February 5th

Dimitrias Ganes walked into the bullpen and looked around at the agents. He had recently been made supervisor over this unit and he couldn’t be prouder of the work they were doing.

D’ came and stood in the middle of the room. “Can I have everyone’s attention.”

Jack looked up from his computer. “What‘s up, D’?”

“As I’m sure you’ve heard, the bureau is sponsoring a Valentine’s Gala. This is a charity event and all of the money is going to help the families of fallen soldiers. There will be many senators and congressmen in attendance and the director wants to put the Bureau’s best face forward.”

Jack nodded his head, “So that means…“

D’ continued, “He has requested that everyone from this unit be there. He chose this unit not only because you are one of the best in the bureau, his words, not mine, but because of our ‘secret weapon’.” He smiled at Sue.

“Do we have to bring dates?” Bobby inquired.

“That is your choice, just as long as you are all there.” D’ smiled as he walked back to his office.

“It is definitely going to be a grand affair.” Myles said. “I know exactly who I’m going to ask to accompany me.”

“And who is the lucky lady, a certain writer, perhaps.” Lucy smirked. She knew Myles had been out with Nora Albright on several occasions and had taken quite a fancy to the beautiful writer.

“As a matter of fact it is Miss Albright.”

“Woo Hoo! Good on ya mate. You two make a great couple.” Bobby complimented.

Bobbie turned to Tara, his dimpled, Aussie grin as wide as it could go. “What about you, Luv? Who are you going to ask?”

Tara blushed slightly. Bobby actually called her ‘luv’ not ‘shelia’, like he usually did. Ever since their kiss after the MoJo GoGo concert, her feelings for Bobby started to change. She was having feelings for him more than she would have for a friend. She knew he felt the change between them too. She would often catch him watching her during the day.

While waiting for a reply the only thought in Bobby’s mind was, “Please not Stanley. Not Stanley.” He was fascinated by everything about the spunky agent. Oh, how he loved to see the gleam in her eyes whenever she was successful in anything she was doing. He’d found himself watching her more and more in the last few months. He knew that he cared about Tara, as more than just a friend. But how to tell her was the dilemma.

“I don’t think I’ll ask anyone.” Answered Tara. “I think I’ll just go alone.”

“What about Stanley?” Myles asked.

"We aren’t seeing each other anymore. He got transferred back to Chicago and we both felt a long distance relationship was too hard.”

Bobby gave her a compassionate smile, but inside he was cheering. “Thank you. Thank you.”

“You and I can go together, Tara.” Sue suggested. “I’m not planning on asking anyone either. We’ll make it a girls night out. What do you say Lucy?”

Lucy looked slightly disappointed. “Well, I was planning on asking J.P. from the lab, but…”

“No, never mind Lucy.” Tara responded. “You’ve had your eye on J.P. for awhile, it’s about time you asked him out.”

Jack caught Bobby’s eye and winked slightly. Bobby’s response was a small nod. He knew that he would ask Tara to be his date for the gala and he was sure Jack was going to ask Sue. Now he needed to figure out how to go about asking her without scaring her off. Maybe he and Jack could work together to charm their ladies into going to the gala with them.

TBC...

No need to TRY to charm the girls You've already stolen their hearts!! And ours as well! What a wonderful start!!

I can't wait for more!!

This is going to be fun!!!

Joy

Fantastic start! I just love galas....perfect setting!



Haha, me too. I've never heard it called that before, but I love it!

More story soon please

I love it! Good things always happen when the team goes to Gala's... or Charity bachelor auction... or whatever

Can't wait for more!

Em

My tip: Guys don't take 48 ways... just ask them to go with you... is taht simple!!

Use what your momma gave you and smile and ask nicely Of course one look into Jack's eyes and I could hardly refuse

oh gooo jack and bobby, go and ask them out

Thanks for all your replies. Here a short post!


While Jack and Bobby were having their silent exchange, the girls were getting ready to leave for lunch. As they made their way to the door, Tara looked back over her shoulder. “We’re headed for lunch, we’ll see you guys later.”

At the diner down the street, Tara, Lucy and Sue were in full ‘girl talk’ mode. Lucy wanted answers. “Okay Tara, why aren’t you asking anyone to the gala? You haven’t sworn off dating again, have you?”

Tara blushed, “No, but I’m hoping someone will ask me.”

Sue caught her blush, “And who is this someone? A tall, handsome Aussie, perhaps?”

Tara’s face went even redder. “How did you know?”

“Just because I can’t hear doesn’t mean I’m blind too. I try to be aware of what’s going on around me. I’ve seen the quick glances you send in Bobby’s direction and the way your face lights up when he talks to you. I think you are in love.”

Lucy laughed, “Look at the pot calling the kettle black. Why aren‘t you asking anyone to the gala, Sue?”

“I‘m…”

“Waiting for a certain dark eyed agent to ask you?” Lucy grinned, “Don’t even try and deny it. Sue, you are doing the same thing with Jack. Nothing escapes my attention when it comes to my love radar. You two are hopeless.”

* * * * *

While the girls were at lunch, Bobby and Jack grabbed a burger at Slappy’s. “Okay Sparky, I get the feeling you are planning on asking our lovely Miss Thomas to the gala?

“I’m planning more than just asking Sue to the gala.”

Bobby gaped at him, “You’re going to tell her you love her!” It wasn’t a question. “Alright! It’s about time mate. It’s only taken you three and a half years. I’m with you one hundred percent, but…”

“But? But what?“

“Whoa! Chill, Sparky. I just need your assistance in my own quest for true love.”

“Hmm, I think our perky computer whiz has captured Agent Manning’s heart.” Jack grinned.

“You know Jack, sometimes it’s a bit scary how well we know each other. You are right, Tara has definitely captured my heart, now all I need to do is capture hers.”

Jack pulled a small piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to Bobby. “I’m going to use this song as a guide. It describes my feelings for Sue perfectly. I’m going to ask her to dinner for tomorrow night. That’s when I’ll ask her to the gala. Then…”

Jack want on to explain his plan. As Bobby listened, a plan for his own labor of love was starting to form. By the time they got back to the bullpen, he was already making a list of what he would need. He was going to ask Tara to go do dinner with him tomorrow night and ask her to the gala. After that his plan was similar to Jack’s but with his own twist.

TBC...

its mutual attraction!

Awwww I can't wait to see what song Jack chose!

Sue and Lucy are so good at seeing through people More soon please!

Love is in the air!!!

Joy

I love that the guys are putting a lot of effort into asking the girls out. It's very cute.

But sometimes I think they worry too much. If they just came right out and asked, I'm fairly certan the girls would say YES!

It's more memorable this way though.

I'm hooked....please keep going....


~laura michelle~

I can't wait for all the dates!!!

Em

i'm loving this, looking forward to more

cath

I have a feeling that their plans will work a little better than expected.

I have to agree with Cath Lin

Depends on the plan, eh?

and yes... one grin with those dimples and I'd do just about anything Bobby Manning asked me to do.... including asking Tara to the gala for him.



All he has to do is wear a suit and smile.... **Sigh** I'm a sucker for a guy in a suit with dimples.... **sigh**

Here's one more for tonight. At least on my time.

Bobby and Jack arrived back at the office at the same time as the ladies. As they headed in to the bullpen Jack grabbed Sue’s arm and pulled her gently back into the hallway.

“What’s wrong, Jack?” she asked.

“Nothing, I just need to ask you something and I didn’t want to get any comments from the peanut gallery.” He flipped his thumb in the direction of the bullpen.

Sue waited with bated breath. She hoped she knew what he was going to ask her, but didn’t want to seem to eager.

“I was wondering if you would have dinner with me tomorrow night? And I don‘t mean one of our pizza nights.”

“You mean like a ‘date’?” Sue smiled. She had been waiting for this ever since they had eliminated the inter-unit dating rule. It wasn’t an invitation to the gala, but it was a step in the right direction.

“That is exactly what I mean.”

“I would love to have dinner with you, Jack. What time do you want to pick me up?”

“How does six-thirty work for you. I figured we could go to that little café near your place.”

“Look’s like a plan. I’ll be ready by six-thirty tomorrow night. I’m looking forward to it.”

“So am I.” As he followed her back in to the bullpen. He whispered, from behind her, “You have no idea how much I’m looking forward to this.”

Meanwhile, in the bullpen, Myles was still at lunch and Lucy was in deep conversation with someone on the phone. Bobby figured this was the perfect time to ask Tara to dinner. He strolled over to her desk and leaned up against is watching her.

Tara was nervous under Bobby’s stare. “Was there something you needed, Agent Manning.” She asked tossing him a saucy grin.

When she smiled like that he was hard pressed to draw a breath or remember anything he was doing. Luckily, he was able to control his breathing and ask his questions.

“Yes, actually, I was wondering if you had plans for tomorrow evening?”

Tara thought she would tease him a little. “Well, I’m going to be extremely busy. I have to wash my hair, do my nails…”

“Clever, Luv, very clever.” He wasn’t going to let her off the hook that easy. “That’s a shame. I was hoping that you would join me for dinner, but since you seem to be busy, maybe I’ll ask Arlene.”

She loved it when they had these verbal sparring matches. “Well now, let’s not be hasty. I could probably change my plans to accommodate you. I wouldn’t want you to suffer through an evening with Arlene, when you could be spending it with me.”

All the humor fled from his eyes. He placed his hands on her desk and leaned in. “Is that a yes to my invitation?” He didn’t think he could take it if she said no.

“Yes, Bobby, I would love to go to dinner with you.” She placed her small hand over his. Bobby Manning was asking her out and she was going to make the most of it.

“Great. I’ll pick you up at seven. There’s this great little Italian place I want to share with you. Just wear a nice dress, nothing too fancy.” He gave that Aussie grin and winked at her as he went back to his desk.


Tuesday, February 6th

For February the evening was unusually warm, so Jack and Sue chose to walk to the café. After they had ordered Jack took Sue’s hand in his and rubbed his thumb over her knuckles. He was trying to gather the courage to ask her to the Valentine’s gala. As he looked at her eyes, he was lost. Those hazel pools always held such love and compassion with the occasionally spark of stubbornness.

Sue couldn’t quite figure Jack out. He had been relatively quite since he picked her up. There was a different look in his chocolate eyes, but she couldn’t define it. She was thrilled that he had asked her out. She hoped he wasn’t going to back pedal again. He had come so close to opening up about his feelings when he thought she was going to New York, but since then they had slipped back into their comfortable friendship.

Just as he was about to say something, the waiter brought their food and the mood was broken. Jack let go of Sue’s hand and turned his attention to his meal. “I was so close. Stupid waiter! Before the night is over I am going to ask her to the gala.”

Throughout the meal they chatted about everything and nothing. Each of them enjoying the company of the other. As they left the café, Jack boldly took Sue’s hand in his before he could talk himself out of it.

“How about a walk through the park before we call it a night?” He asked.

“That would be wonderful.” Sue didn’t want the evening to end. She intended to find out was Jack had on his mind.

Strolling side by side along the sidewalk, they shared a companionable silence. Sue decided enough was enough, she need to know what Jack was thinking.

“Jack, is everything alright? You haven’t seemed like yourself this evening.”

He laughed a little. He forgot that she could read people better than most. “I’m fine. In fact I’m great. I’m glad you said yes to dinner. I hope we can do this again in the very near future.”

Sue tried to hide her excitement. This was a beginning. “I’m glad I said yes too, Jack. It’s been fun. I’ll certainly look forward to going out again.”

They stopped under a street lamp and stood facing each other. Jack took both of Sue’s hands in his. “I’m happy to hear that.” He took a deep breath and plunged ahead. “Sue, will you be my date for the Valentine’s Gala?”

“Really?”

Jack nodded, “There is no one I would rather have as my date than you, Sue.”

“Oh Jack, I would love to go the gala with you.” She could no longer hide her excitement, but then she remembered her girls night with Tara. “What about Tara? I don’t want her to go alone.”

Jack grinned. “I don’t think we have to worry about that. I happen to know that by the end of tonight she will have a date to the gala.”

“What do you know, Jack?” She studied him, then her face lit with understanding. “Bobby’s going to ask her, isn’t he?”

Jack just nodded. He took Sue’s hand and they continued their stroll through the park. As they stood in front of Sue’s apartment, Jack surprised them both by placing a soft kiss on Sue’s cheek.

“Goodnight, Sue.”

“Goodnight.” Her voice was just above a whisper.

cath

Turtle Boy is making progress...


~laura michelle~

WOW good on yah jack were moving
A bit quicker now than A turtle more soon please Lin

Seems like Turtle Boy has transformed into the hare, hasn't he?

I'm Back with more of the story.

Just a Quick Side Note

We have had a tragedy here in Utah. A teen gunman has killed 5 people at one of our malls in Salt Lake City last night (Monday). I would ask you all to keep all the victims and their families in your prayers. Many families with children witnesses the tragedy. All of Utah is in shock and feels for those who were there.

On with the story...

Bobby knocked on Tara’s door at exactly seven o’clock. His hands were shaking like a high school boy going on his first date. This wasn’t the first time he and Tara had gone out, but it was the first time that there was a prospect of a real relationship.

When Tara answered the door, she took his breath away. She stood before him in a white peasant blouse and multi-colored broom skirt. It took him several seconds to form his words. “You are so beautiful.” he stated and handed her a single red rose.

Tara blushed deeply. “Thank you. You look very handsome as well.”

They sat in a secluded booth of a little Italian restaurant. As they waited for their food, Bobby could not take his eyes of the lovely woman across from him. There was no doubt in his heart or mind that he was in love with this wonderful woman.

Tara was fully aware of Bobby’s eyes on her. She knew tonight was the beginning of something great. She loved him, heart, mind and soul. Something was different about tonight. Maybe it was the way Bobby seemed to be more attentive to her or perhaps the way she would touch his hand at every opportunity.

As they enjoyed their food, they chatted about friends, work and their families. After they finished eating, they continued to sit and enjoy each other’s company.

“This place is wonderful, Bobby. I just love the atmosphere.”

“I’m glad you like it, Luv. This is one of my favorite places in DC.” He reached across the table and took her hand. “I’ve wanted to bring you here for quite a while.”

“Why didn’t you bring me here sooner?”

“Honestly? I was afraid you wouldn’t have come.”

“But why? We’ve been friends for a long time. Why wouldn’t I have wanted to have dinner with a friend.”

“Because, I wanted to bring you here on a date.” Bobby took her hand in both of his. “When I brought you here I wanted it to be as more than friends.”

Tara couldn’t tear herself away from his gaze. “Is that what you want Bobby? For us to be more than friends?”

Bobby could see the hope shining in her eyes. It gave him the courage to move forward. “Yes, Luv, that is exactly what I want.” He took a deep breath, “I have so much I want to say, but I’m not sure how to go about it. I heard a song just recently that expresses everything I’m feeling. Will you dance with me?”

Tara could only nod. Her greatest dream was coming true. She allowed Bobby to lead her to the make shift dance floor in the middle of the restaurant. He nodded to someone near the bar and as soft music filled the room, he took Tara in his arms.

Are those your eyes?
Is that your smile?
I been looking at you forever,
Yet I never saw you before.
Are these your hands? Holding mine?

Now I wonder how I could have been so blind.
And for the first time, I am looking in your eyes.
For the first time, I'm seeing who you are.
I can't believe how much I see,

When you're looking back at me.
Now I understand what love is,
Love is...
For the first time...

Tara couldn’t believe this was happening. As the song played, she realized that it fit her and Bobby perfectly. They had been friends, but now for the first time they were seeing each other in a different light. She smiled and looked into her Aussie’s eyes as he pulled her closer.

Can this be real?
Can this be true?
Am I the person I was this morning?
And are you the same you?

It’s all so strange.
How can it be?
All along this love was right in front of me!

And for the first time, I am looking in your eyes.
For the first time, I am seeing who you are.
I can't believe how much I see,
When you're looking back at me.

Now I understand what love is...
Love is...
For the first time.

Bobby was amazed that he was here, dancing with his Tara. She was in his arms and looking into her eyes he could see his future. For the first time in his life he knew what love was. It was this spunky, intelligent, beautiful computer whiz. He continued to hold her gaze as he pulled her closer.

Such a long time ago,
I had given up on finding this emotion,
Ever again.
But you're here with me now,
Yes I found you somehow,
And I've never been so sure.

For the first time, I am looking in your eyes,
For the first time, I'm seeing who you are,
Can't believe how much I see,
When you're looking back at me.

Now I understand what love is...
Love is...
For the first time.
For the first time.

As the song came to an end, Bobby leaned down slowly and placed a gentle kiss on Tara’s lips. “I love you, Tara Williams.”

“I love you too, Bobby Manning.”

“Tara, luv, will you go to the Valentine’s Gala with me?”

“I wouldn’t want to go with anyone else.” Tara hugged Bobby and rest her head on his chest. “Oh, dear.” She replied, pulling back. “What about Sue? If I go with you, she will be going alone.”

“Not to worry, Luv. I have it on good authority that she will not be going to the gala alone.”

Tara smiled, “Jack’s going to ask her, right?”

Bobby just grinned. Tara laughed merrily, “Well, it’s about time. What’s it taken him, three years, to make a move?”

“Exactly what I told him.”

“It looks like this is going to be an exciting Valentine’s Day for all of us. Would you say, Bobby?”

“You have no idea, Luv. You have no idea.” He remarked with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Well, all of that went very well!! Be still my heart!!!

I heard about the tragedy in your state on the news. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.

Joy

My prayers are with the people going through this tragedy too.

Your story is coming along wonderfully. The dates are set! Can't wait for the gala!

You know, the bad thing about working nights is that you don't really get to hear the news all that much, so I didn't hear about the incident yet, though I'm sure I would have in due time. So terrible, though. -shakes head-

Anyway, such a wonderful Bobby/Tara thing. I'm excited about the Valentine's gala. I can't wait to see what these two boys have up their sleeves.

Wow.. I had no idea about that piece of news.. I am so sad for that community and I'll be watching the news tonight for further details

What a beautiful and wonderful and romantic story.. *Sigh*.. So wonderful.. they really are so cute.. What is the name of Bobby's song?

It's kind of crazy to think something like this happened here in Utah... and at Trolley Square... a place I go quite a bit. It's truely tragic.

But your posts are wonderful and ! Keep them coming!!!

Em

They are so cute

Sorry forgot to put a disclaimer for the song. It's "For the First Time" by Kenny Loggins.

I'll be back in a little bit with a story post.

And it Continues...

Wednesday, February 7th

When Tara and Sue came into the bullpen Wednesday morning, both were floating on air. Lucy just smiled at her two friends. She of course knew how Sue’s evening with Jack had gone, but she hadn’t known Tara was out with Bobby until Sue had returned last night.

“Looks like Sue wasn’t the only one who had a good night last night. Hey, Tara?”

Tara blushed slightly, but didn’t wipe the goofy grin off her face. “Hey, can I help it if I’m in love with an amazing guy?”

Just at that moment Bobby strolled through the door. “I should hope you can‘t help it, or I’m going to have to try harder.” He bent to give Tara a quick peck on the lips. “Good morning, Luv.”

“It was already a good morning, but it’s even better now.” Tara replied.

Lucy blinked at the exchange between the two agents. “Wow! it’s seems some people have been bit by the love bug recently.”

Bobby shook his head, “Nah, we got bit a long time ago. We just needed to open our eyes to what was right in front of us.”

The day progressed slowly, because they weren’t any new cases to occupy the team’s attention. All they had was piles of paperwork to catch up on. January had been a busy time for terrorists and other low-lives, so paperwork had taken the back burner.

It was about eleven o’clock when a bureau messenger entered the bullpen. “I’m looking for Miss Sue Thomas and Special Agent Tara Williams.”

Tara and Sue identified themselves and the messenger handed each one a package. “These were delivered for you downstairs. Security checked them over before I brought them up.”

“Thank you.” Tara replied turning her package over in her hands. There was no return address. Just a typed label on the front with her name.

Sue’s package was identical to Tara’s. Just a typed label with her name on the front. “I wonder who they are from.”

Lucy cast a subtle glance in Jack and Bobby’s direction. They both had a hopeful, but mischievous look in their eye’s. She didn’t have to look in the packages to know who they were from. They noticed Lucy watching them and silently pleaded with her not to spill the beans.

It’s not that they didn’t want Tara and Sue to know they had sent the packages, they would find out when they opened them anyway, but they were enjoying watching the excitement of the mystery in the girls faces. Lucy gave them a slight nod to let them know that there secret was safe.

Tara and Sue went to their respective desks to open the packages. Tara slowly unsealed the padded envelope and pulled out a little card with candy hearts on the front. Inside the card was a message written in a somewhat messy scrawl that she recognized instantly as Bobby’s. In part of the message was a blue candy heart that read “New Love”.

We have been friends for a long time and this love I have for you is not a
“NEW LOVE”, it just needed to be examined and defined. I Love You!
Love, Bobby

The last thing she pulled from the envelope was a beautiful framed picture of her and Bobby at Sue and Lucy’s fist Christmas party. She remember that night, Sue had caught them in a candid moment as they sat on the couch talking. She look over at Bobby and smiled. He gave her a smile and a wink. No words were needed. Their hearts spoke to each in the silent exchange.

Over at her desk Sue opened her own package to find a beautiful gold necklace with a heart that was engraved with the words “TRUE LOVE”. The note that accompanied the necklace was written in Jack’s familiar script.


Dearest Sue,
The words below are from a song that truly describes you and I and how I feel about you.

“Valentine”
If there were no words
No way to speak
I would still hear you

Although I can hear you, you can’t hear me. But we don’t need words. I believe
our hearts spoke to each other. Only if it is a “True Love” can hearts speak to
each other. Sue, I want you to know that you are my true and only love. I hope
I can be yours.
Love, Jack

Sue discreetly wiped a few stray tears from her cheek and looked up at Jack. Careful to avoid drawing attention to herself, she signed “Lunch?” to Jack.

He understood exactly what she meant. She wanted to talk to him, but not with everyone else around. He grabbed his coat and headed for the door. Sue put the necklace and note back in the envelope, put it in her purse and followed Jack out the door.

Myles was confused. “Did I miss something? What just happened here?”

“I believe, Mate, that our Sparky has finally told Sue how he feels and they don’t want an audience to continue their 'conversation'.”

Jack and Sue walked down the street to the National Sculpture Garden, where they often had lunch. It was peaceful and gave them a nice break from the office.

Once they were seated on a bench, Sue took the card and necklace from her purse. She turned her hopeful eyes to Jack. “Did you mean it? What you wrote?”

He took both of her hands in his. “I meant every word, with all my heart. I love you, Sue Thomas.”

“I love you too, Jack. You are my true love.” She held the necklace out to him. “Will you help me put it on?”

“Gladly.”

She turned her back to Jack and held her hair up as he placed the chain around her neck and fastened the clasp. When he was finished he took her shoulders and gently turned her back around to face him. The love shining in her eyes matched his. He slowly pulled her closer and kissed her gently. As their kiss deepened Jack’s arms went around her waist and her arms went around his neck.

It was at least a minute before either of them felt the need to break the connection. “Wow!” was all Sue was able to say before Jack kissed her again. She melted into him and was overwhelmed with love for this wonderful man that held her in his arms. They lost all sense of time and place as they continued to share kisses, expressing all the love that had gone unshared for three years.

The song Jack is using is "Valentine" by Martina McBride

I loved this...the gifts are perfect!

just caught up on 2 wonderful post
its great to see jack as A cheetah instead of A turtle
more soon please Lin

esskidhelhggglieknsdl laonemwmniehd

Boy, that was lame.. but you get the idea! WONDERFUL!! Thankyou for a sweet and adorable post

That was lovely!

Be still my heart!! Once you get these guys started, they run like the wind!!!

Joy

Jack....Bobby....perfect....


~laura michelle~

cath

This post is a little longer. Trying to meet tomorrow nights deadline.


Thursday, February 8th

With a new day came more paperwork, but somehow no one seemed to mind. The feeling of love was everywhere, but it was felt most among the agents in Dimitrias Ganes team. As he watched the agents busily completing reports, he could see the change in his fellow agents over the past few days. He was glad to see Jack and Bobby finally act on their feelings. He knew this could only make his team stronger. They were already a family, but now, they had all opened their hearts and bonded in a way that few other teams had.

Sue and Tara arrived that morning to find envelopes on their desks. Each was identical to the one they had received the day before. They looked at each other then looked around for Bobby and Jack. Neither of their men were around and they tried to hide their disappointment.

Myles decided to take pity on them. “If you are looking for your significant others, they are otherwise engaged today.”

Tara mockingly glared at him. “That’s a whole lot of help Myles. Where are they exactly.”

“That I can’t tell you. I can, however, tell you that they are on a special assignment. They also asked me to tell you both that they will see you tomorrow.”

Sue was puzzled. “Jack didn’t mention anything to me last night about an assignment. Did Bobby say anything to you?” She asked Tara.

“Nope, not a word.” She sank into her chair. “Well, I guess will just have to ask them about it tomorrow.”

Sue turned her attention to the envelope on her desk. Inside was a small white box tied with a red ribbon as well as a card. She took the ribbon off the box and lifted the lid. There laying on a red velvet cloth was a gold heart charm, just like the one she wore on the necklace around her neck. This one was engraved with the word “MAGIC”.

My Love,
The words below continue the song that I shared with you yesterday. Add this charm
to your necklace. I won’t see you today, but know that you are always in my thoughts
and in my heart.

“Valentine”
If there were no tears
No way to feel inside
I'd still feel for you

We have shared so many memories over the past three years. Both happiness and tears.
I believe that it was “Magic” the way our souls were drawn together. I have felt a Connection
with you from the beginning. When you hurt, I hurt and when you laugh, I laugh.
I feel everything with you, and for you.
Love, Jack

Sue removed her necklace, placed the new charm along side the first one and replaced the chain around her neck. She took the red ribbon from the box and tied it around the card. Placing the card in her purse, she intended to put it in her desk drawer at home with the one she got yesterday.

Tara had opened her envelope and was fingering a wide gold chain with a charm of a computer attached. Just like the note from yesterday this one had candy hearts on the front. Inside within a hand written message was a pink candy heart that read “Whiz Kid”.

My Darling Tara,
You are as intelligent as you are beautiful. There isn’t anything you can’t do. You
are truly a “WHIZ KID”. I Love You!
Love, Bobby

Tara couldn’t believe she had found someone as wonderful as Bobby. She loved this romantic side of him. Of course she loved the hard, no-nonsense agent, but to see the tender and caring part of Bobby Manning was humbling. He loved her, and she loved him. She never believed this was possible. She couldn’t wait until tomorrow to thank him for the necklace, so she left a message on his phone.

“Hey handsome, it’s me. Just wanted to thank you for the necklace and to say I love you. Where ever you are, be safe. Counting the hours until tomorrow. Bye.”

Tara decided she didn’t want to sit around that night wishing she was with Bobby. She waved her hand to get Sue‘s attention. “Hey girls. Since the guys decided to ditch us for an assignment, how about we have a girls night. We can grab some dinner and go shopping for our dresses for the gala.”

“Excellent idea.” Sue agreed. “Then maybe Lucy can tell us where she was and who she was with last night. When I got home from having dinner with Jack, it was almost eleven and she wasn’t home yet.”

Sue had been unable to get anything out of her roommate that morning, about her activities the previous night. She could tell she’d had a good time, wherever she had been, she was practically jumping out of her skin with excitement. She told Sue she wanted to tell her and Tara about her “date” at the same time.

Tara’s interest was definitely peaked. “I think I’m more interested in the ‘who’ rather than the where. It’s seems the ‘who’ made quite a good impression. You are positively beaming, Lucy.”

“Come on, you guys.” Lucy could feel a blush creeping into her cheeks.

Sue shook her head. “You know what? I can’t wait till tonight or even until lunchtime. Spill, Luc.”

“Come on, Luc.” Tara pleaded. “What’s the scoop.”

“Oh, alright. You know how I was planning on asking J.P. to the gala? Well, he sort of beat me to it.”

Tara gasped “You mean, he asked you to the gala?”

Lucy nodded, “He caught me as I was leaving the office yesterday and wondered if I would like to grab a bite to eat with him. Of course I said yes, I figured it would be a good time for me to ask him to the gala. Then I was completely blown away when he asked me to be his date.”

“Okay, I get that part.” Sue said, “But, you didn’t get home until after I did, which was past eleven. Surely it didn’t take that long to eat dinner.”

Lucy blushed again, “No, we spent the rest of the evening walking along The Mall. We just talked about anything and everything. Our childhood, families, latest bits from the bureau rumor mill. It was a wonderful evening.”

“Oh, Lucy, I’m so glad. You and J.P. do make a great couple.” Sue replied.




Friday, February 9th

Friday morning Jack was at Sue’s apartment at six-thirty to take her to breakfast. As they sat in the coffee shop down the street from the Hoover Building, Jack handed Sue an envelope.

“Another one? Jack, you’ve given me so much already. What did I do to deserve such wonderful gifts?”

“You captured my heart, Sue. I want to show you how much I love you and how much you have given me. Read the card for today and you’ll understand.”

Sue opened the envelope and slid the box and card out. Setting the box aside she read the card.

Sweetheart,
Below are more words from the song. I think I like this verse the best. It expresses
what is in my heart.

“Valentine”
All of my life
I have been waiting for
All you give to me
You've opened my eyes
And shown me how to love unselfishly

I thought I was an opened-minded and giving person, but I didn’t realize what that
really meant until I met you. You have such a loving and tender heart. You are always
looking for the best in others. I was just waiting for you to share with me how you love
so unselfishly. You showed me that even in the world of hatred and evil we see everyday,
that there is good if we know where to find it. I pray that you will continue to “Teach Me”.
Love, Jack

With tears streaming down her face Sue opened the little box to find another heart charm that read “TEACH ME”. Not being able to speak because of her tears, she moved around the table to sit beside Jack. She lifted her hair up, to indicate to Jack that he should unclasp her necklace. She placed the new charm on the necklace so that the “True Love” heart was in the center. After the necklace was back around her neck, she leaned in and gave Jack a gentle kiss.

“Thank you, Jack. You have taught me so many things as well. And you are a giving person. You accepted me for who I am. You saw my deafness as a gift that could be used for good. You encouraged me and scolded me.” she grinned “You have put your life and your job on the line for me so many times. I love you Jack Hudson.”

When she finished speaking, Jack pulled her to him and kissed her deeply. He didn’t care that they were in a public place in full view of anyone walking by on the sidewalk outside. He loved this woman and he didn’t care who knew it.

* * * * *

Tara received a third envelope as well. This one, like Sue’s was hand delivered by the giver, however, she didn’t get hers until lunch time. She and Bobby went to one of the many cafés on The Mall.

“Are you going to tell me about the special assignment you and Jack were on yesterday.” She asked as she tore open her envelope.

“Sorry, Luv. I can’t talk about yesterdays assignment.” He gave her his best official stare.

He tried to sound official, but Tara wasn’t fooled. He and Jack were up to something, and it had nothing to with Bureau business. “Alright then, keep your secrets. You know I’ll find out eventually.”

He put an arm around her shoulder and gave a gentle squeeze. “That you will, Luv. I have no doubt.”

The card she held in her hand, again had a candy heart as part of the message. This lavender-colored heart said “Charm Me”.

My Love,
You have a personality that lights up any room you enter. I know you “CHARM ME”
with just a smile. I love how you aren’t afraid to be yourself. I Love You!
Love, Bobby

Along with the card there were five pencils, each with a brightly colored fuzzy top over the eraser. He knew she loved to collect unique pencils and had instantly thought of her when he say these particular writing instruments.

“I thought the collection on your desk was looking a little sparse.” he replied.

“Thank you, Bobby. You know exactly what wins my heart, don’t you?”

“I’m learnin’, Luv. I’m learnin’.” He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, then one on her nose and finally settled one her lips.

* * * * *

Saturday night Jack and Sue went on a double-date with Bobby and Tara. The foursome went to dinner and then played a couple of rounds of miniature golf at an indoor course. Sue and Tara had their hands full trying to keep the guys from cheating.

As they left the golf course, Tara sighed. “I can’t remember when I’ve had so much fun. I haven’t been miniature golfing since I was in college.”

Sue nodded in agreement. “Growing up it was one of the few activities that I felt comfortable participating in. I didn’t need my hearing, just my sight to make sure the ball got in the hole.”

Jack wrapped his arm around Sue’s shoulders. “We’ll just have to do this more often then. I find it a lot more fun than regular golf, especially when I’m winning.”

“You mean especially when you are cheating, Sparky.” Bobby goaded.

Tara gave Bobby a playful shove “Look who’s talkin’ Koala Boy. I seem to recall you forgetting to count a significant number of strokes.”

Sue laughed, “Oh, but Tara, our men have such fragile egos. It would have wounded them terribly to be beaten by a couple of women.”

“Oh, Miss Thomas, you are asking for trouble.” Jack moved his arm to tickle her rib cage, but Sue anticipated his attack and ducked out from under his arm.

She wasn’t fast enough, because Jack swung around and grabbed her. Without knowing how it happened, Sue found herself cradled neatly in Jack’s arms.

She squirmed, “Jack, put me down.”

“Nope, I don’t think so. I think I prefer you right where you are. In fact, I’ll think I’ll just keep you here forever.”

There was no teasing behind his words, and Sue knew he was trying to communicate a hidden message. She only hoped that she what she perceived in his eyes was what he meant. He was telling her that he wanted to be with her forever. That thought both thrilled and frightened her.

TBC... I'm going to try and post again tonight, but I'm not positive.

I love mini golf... Your story keeps getting better and the deadline is midnight of Valentine's Day!

Loved the gifts....such wonderful guys!

Thanks Kaci! It's almost 10:30pm here in Utah on February 13th, so I've got about 25 and 1/2 hours before the deadline, I'm rushing to finish.

Here's my last post for tonight! Enjoy!! See ya'll tomorrow!!

Monday, February 12th

Tara came into work Monday with a skip in her step. Her weekend had been wonderful, due to the fact that she had spent most of it with Bobby. It didn’t matter what they did, if just mattered that they were together. Placing her purse in her desk drawer, she went to grab her Winnie-the-Pooh coffee mug, but found an envelope in it’s place.

She didn’t have to open the envelope to know that if was from Bobby and it had a card with a candy heart inside. What she didn’t know was what that card said, so she ripped into without hesitation. The card fell out along with another envelope with her name written in a beautiful script on the front. The yellow candy heart had the word “Dream” on it.

My Beautiful Tara,
You are a “DREAM” come true. You are in my dreams both waking and sleeping.
In every dream and plan for the future you are there. I Love You!
Love, Bobby

Wiping the tears from her cheek, Tara ran her finger over the last line, ‘I Love You”. No matter how many times she read or heard those words from Bobby, it was always like she was hearing them for the first time. “I hope it will always be like that,” she thought.

Inside the smaller envelope, she found a gift certificate to her favorite spa. It was for a full day treatment. A small note that was attached, read “So when you need to get away from the stress and you can relax and “Dream” of me. Love, Bobby.”

Just at that moment Bobby came through the door. Tara approached him, lifted up on her tip toes and kissed him soundly. Before she had a chance to pull back, Bobby wrapped his arms around her, lifted her off the ground and returned her kiss.

He slowly lowered Tara down so her feet were on the ground, but didn’t take his arms from around her. “I’m not complaining, Luv, but what did I do to deserve such a warm welcome?”

“You are just you, Bobby and I love you.”

He gazed into her dreamy eyes and ran a finger down her cheek. “I love you, too. I’m guessing you received my gift this morning?”

She nodded “I did. Thank you for the spa certificate. But, you know I don’t have to go there to dream of you. You are always in my dreams, no matter where I am.”

Someone cleared their throat from out in the hallway. “If you two are finished, Crash, some of us would like to come into the bullpen.” Jack gave his friend a nudge.

Bobby and Tara stepped out of the doorway sheepishly. “Sorry, mate. Got caught up in the moment and forgot we were standing in the doorway.”

Jack slapped him on the shoulder. “No problem. I can understand how easily you get lost in the moment.” He winked at Sue, who was at his side with her hand in his.

She blushed at his wink, knowing exactly which moment he was referring to. She fingered her necklace of heart charms that now had a fourth one added to it.

She recalled her early morning breakfast date with Jack. They had decided to enjoy the spring like weather and have breakfast in the park. Jack had prepared blueberry muffins and hot chocolate. They sat on blanket and leaned up against a large oak tree. She sat in front of Jack with her back against his chest, enjoying the feel of his arms around her.

After they had eaten, they had fun watching Levi chase squirrels. While she was occupied with watching Levi, Jack had placed a card and a little white box with a red ribbon in her lap. She had a good guess as to what was in the box, so she opened the card, anxious to read what Jack had written for her today.

“Valentine”
I've dreamed of this a thousand times before
But in my dreams I couldn't love you more
I will give you my heart
Until the end of time
You're all I need, my love, my Valentine

My Heart,
I don’t know what I can say that is better than the words of the song. You are my
“Dream”, my life, my heart. I gave you my heart a long time ago and I hope that
you will keep it and give me yours until the end of time.
Love, Jack

Never in her whole life had Sue felt so loved and never had she loved someone so deeply. This special man that held her in his arms, continued to amaze her everyday. With trembling hands she picked up the box and began untying the ribbon.

Jack’s hands came over hers and he took the box and laid it back in her lap as he opened it. The heart charm inside read “DREAM”. He push her hair back and undid her necklace. After placing the new charm on the chain, he clasped in back around her neck. Sliding his hands from her shoulders, down her arms, he leaned in and placed several gentle kisses on her neck.

Jack’s kisses were sending shivers through her entire body. She turned in his arms and placed her lips on his in a kiss that expressed everything she couldn’t say at that moment. Without breaking their kiss, Jack maneuvered them so they ended up laying side by side on the blanket, with his body leaning into Sue’s, but not totally covering hers.

As their kiss deepened, Sue ran her hands up his chest and placed one arm around his neck, while her other hand cradled his jaw. Forgetting where they were and losing all concept of time they continued to share deep kisses. It wasn’t until Levi got bored and decided to join them did they come back to reality.

Sue shook herself and brought her thoughts back to the present, to work. Jack said it was easy to get lost in the moment. She got lost just thinking about the moment. When she was with Jack, she forgot everything, the time, the place. The only thing she could think about at those times was the amazing man she was with and that he loved her and she loved him.

Couple more posts to go...

Keep it up VC, you are doing fine...by the way, this week has me in a tizzy I thought the stupid over glorified holiday was in 2 days not 1...

Wow, Jack and Bobby are just so sweet to their girls, aren't they? -sighs-

I like fast acting Jack....and Bobby....very nice...


~laura michelle~

Such romantic guys.

caught up again on 2 wonderful post
loved there songs and the charms they have been
given more soon please Lin