I've caught up, Kim, and I'm very glad I could read right through the take-down and the capture of Dessa!! Levi, you deserve the biggest donut Jack can find!!!

But, this fourth person is in Sue and Lucy's apartment!! What is he/she doing?? Will he/she lay in wait for Jack, Sue and Maggie???

I'm going under the bed until it's over!!!

Joy

2 fab posts, glad they got dessa and now they know who the other person is after

cath

I am glad that Dessa is in custody and the fact that they know that Maggie is in danger but is still in the conference room where she could be kept safe. What I don't like is the fact that this last person is in Sue and Lucy's apartment. Are they going to give up once they realize that no one is home or will they wait? Is Jack going to realize that someone might in fact be in the apartment right now, looking to kill Maggie?

thud! Yoowhooo Jack, I have a Disney collection too! What compare s?! You go, Levi! You're just as much a part of the team as the two-leggers! And ack, to you Kim. I think I caught up on three posts? during my morning commute...only I was so into it that I missed my first bus stop...had to back track and so I missed my second bus...which meant I had to wait a half hour (so much for being early) for the next bus. So I consoled myself by wiling the time away at Tim Horton's only to nearly miss my final destination stop while I was reading Siti's scrumptuous couch explanation! An eventful morning so far for someone who hasn't officially started work yet...though I'm four minutes late writing this up. Oops! So that fourth creepy person is out there...but why Hope? Did she see more than she realized? Why is she such a major target? And that person is getting closer and closer...well, already there and I'm very afraid of what he/she/it is about to do....

kav

Kav made an excellent point. Please come back as soon as you feel well and tell us more about Maggie's connection.

I'll be back here until it's safe to come out!

Em

Great job, Levi! Oh, and you too guys!
Dessa has been arrested but Maggie, Sue and Jack are still in danger
Kim! My poor heart is confused! It wants to be happy but you don't let him rejoice!

Ornella

still applies, guys! Thank you all so much for hanging in here with me.

Jack squatted down by the couch in the conference room. He sighed heavily as he reached over and touched Maggie’s shoulder, shaking it gently. “Maggie. Maggie, wake up.”

“Just five more minutes, Mickey,” Maggie sighed as she snuggled against the pillow. “Tell momma I’ll be down in five more minutes.”

Jack’s heart caught in his throat as he watched the scarlet woman sleeping peacefully on the cough. She was dreaming of home, oblivious to any danger. Home, Jack thought. A sad smile curled his lips. Maggie hasn’t been home in nine years, telling herself that her God and her parents couldn’t possibly still love her after the life she had led. Yet, whether she knows it or not, that is what her heart yearns for. He rocked back on his heels and clasped his hands together, gently bumping his lips with his index fingers. We just have to convince her brain that going home is possible.

He turned to look at the blonde woman by his side, wondering if she had read Maggie’s lips. He gazed into her hazel eyes, watching them mist softly.

“Oh, Jack,” Sue sighed. “She’s dreaming of home.” He watched as her eyes silently pleaded. “Do you think, once this case is over, we could…”

Jack reached over and took Sue’s hand in his, squeezing I gently. “We can try, Sue. We can try to help Maggie see that she can go home again. Back to the loving arms of her family.” Jack watched as the soft glow of hope twinkled in the hazel eyes he could so easily drown in. “But I think she has to find her way back to the loving arms of God first.”

Sue nodded gently. He felt her squeeze his hands softly. “If we could convince her to go to church with us on Sunday,” she sighed. “Easter Sunday offers such hope. Maybe Reverend Mike can offer Maggie the help she needs.”

Jack smiled. “If anyone can convince that stubborn woman, Reverend Mike would be the one.” Jack sighed, gently reaching over to place a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “But first, we have a case to wrap up.”

He turned back to the woman lying on the couch. He touched her shoulder, shaking it gently once more. “Maggie. It’s Jack and Sue. We need you to wake up.”

Maggie’s eyes flew open. Her heart was pounding in her chest as her eyes darted around the room, trying to focus on the unfamiliar objects around her. This isn’t home, she thought as the fog of sleep slowly lifted. It wasn’t her home in the rolling hills of Tennessee. It was the conference room at the Hoover Building. And the brown eyes gazing at her weren’t the golden brown ones of her brother, Michael. They were the coffee brown eyes of Jack Hudson, Special Agent. Her eyes flitted to the woman sitting next to him. She sat up quickly, almost knocking Jack over in the process. “Jack! Sue! I’m so sorry.”

Jack chuckled. “Hey, it’s okay. We just need to talk to you for minute.”

Maggie nodded, looking into the brown eyes. She wrinkled her forehead as she saw a mixture of empathy, concern and fear swirling in the brown depths. She often wondered if it were possible for a heart to actually hammer its way out of chest. The way Jack and Sue were looking at her made her heart feel like it just might. She placed her hand over her heart, trying to calm the crazy rhythm that drummed against her ribcage. “What is it Jack? Sue, is something wrong?”

She watched as Jack glanced at Sue. She heard two sharp intakes of breath. Jack placed his hand on her knee, squeezing gently. “Maggie, is it possible that you saw or heard more last Friday night than you have told us?”

“No!” Maggie retorted. She drew back slightly. “You don’t think I’m…”

Sue reached over and touched her arm. “No Maggie. It’s nothing like that.” She slowly turned her head and looked at Jack.

The look the agent and the analyst gave one another did little to calm Maggie’s trembling insides. “What is it then?” There was a long pause, neither FBI employee looking at her. “Is somebody going to tell me what this is all about?”

“You are a target, Maggie.” Jack replied.

“I know,” Maggie sighed. “I was there, remember? I was there when Myles had to save me…” Her voice trailed off as she watched Jack shake her head.

“You are still a target, Maggie.” Jack’s eyes were soft as they looked at her, concern written in every crease of his forehead. “What we are trying to do is find out why and who.”

Maggie closed her eyes, searching her memory for any image that might enlighten the agent. “I really don’t…” Then suddenly she remembered the gala. “Wait a minute.” She opened her eyes, sitting up straighter. “The gala. I served as Drew Anderson’s escort for the big gala last month. There were lots of big wigs there.” She furrowed her brow, thinking as the scenes of the evening passed in front of her mind’s eye. “I remember seeing Dale McPhearson with someone that evening.”

“Dale McPhearson?” Jack questioned. “As in the chief aid for one the Joint Chiefs of Staff?”

Maggie nodded. “That would be him.” She chuckled softly. “Weird little man. But he acted even weirder than usual that night.” She closed her eyes, once again trying to remember the exact event. “I was coming out the ladies room when I heard Dale talking to a man. The man was threatening Dale. Insisting that he cough up the plans for some big arms talk or something like that.” Maggie shuddered slightly as she remembered the icy stare the man had given her once he realized she was standing there. “The man saw me and ended the conversation.”

Jack looked at Sue, raising his eyebrows. He turned back to Maggie. “Do you think you would recognize the man if you saw him again?”

Maggie nodded. “Sure.” She shivered visibly. “It’s kind of hard to forget eyes that look at you like his did.”

************
“That’s him, Jack.” Maggie replied as she turned for the one way glass. “That’s the man I saw with Dale that night.”

“Did you see him at the gala after that?” Jack asked.

“Yeah. I saw him with a dark haired woman. Petite, quite attractive.” Maggie sniggered at the memory. “They seemed kind of cozy if you ask me.”

Jack nodded. “Thanks, Maggie.” He took her by the elbow and guided her out of the observation room. “Go on back to the conference room. We have just a little more to wrap up, then we’ll get you home.”

He watched as Maggie nodded. He eyed her carefully as she turned and started down the corridor towards the conference room. He turned as he felt Sue’s hand on his arm. “What do you think, Jack?”

Jack sighed as he turned slightly, sliding his arm around Sue’s waist. “I think this case just got a whole lot more complicated.” He leaned over and kissed her cheek. “I need to speak with D.”

“What about the woman Maggie saw Dessa with?” Sue asked.

“It was probably Leila,” Jack shrugged. “She’s petite. She eluded to the fact that she and Dessa were…cozy. And I guess you could call her attractive.” He winked at Sue, delighting in the pink color that touched her cheeks. “Of course, I’m partial to blonde analysts with the incredible ability to read lips and people’s hearts.”

More later
Kim

oh,no, now what??

I think extra protection is needed.

Kim you are me in knots.

more please

Maggie dreaming of home really touched both Sue and Jack deeply.

It now sounds like we have a man and a woman, who are still at large, with vinictive motives against Maggie, Sue and Jack.

Okay everyone. Strap yourselves in. It's gonna be a bumpy ride!

Assistant Director Brannon groaned as he rolled over, glancing at the clock while reaching for the ringing phone that woke him from a dead sleep. “Brannon,” he croaked.

“It’s Supervisor Gans, sir. I’m sorry to wake you...”

“It’s 2:00 in the morning, Gans,” Brannon interrupted. “This had better be good.”

“I think it is sir. Sir, my team apprehended Arif Dessa late yesterday afternoon.” Brannon raised his eyebrows as he continued to listen to the man on the other end of the phone. “During the process of the investigation, we have a witness that can connect him to Dale McPhearson.”

Brannon sat up in bed, suddenly wide awake. “Did you say Dale McPhearson, Gans?”

“Yes sir.”

“You do know we have had him on our radar for several months.”

“Yes sir, I do. That’s why I thought you would find this information interesting.”

Brannon felt the butterflies start in his stomach. He and some of the other top officials in the FBI had been aware that McPhearson’s name appeared prominently in terrorist chatter over the last several months. But so far, they had not been able to connect him directly. Maybe this is the break we need. “How reliable is the witness and the information, Gans?”

“I’d bet my career on it, A.D. Brannon.” Brannon smiled. Supervisor Gans was a man of his word. If he thought it was good information. That was good enough for him. “Is there anything you need for my team to do, sir?”

“No, Gans.” A satisfied smile curled his lips. “I’ll take care of bringing McPhearson in, personally. Your team has done well, Gans. Send them home for what is left of the night. We’ll wrap everything up tomorrow.”

“Very well, sir.”

Brannon barely waited for the click of the receiver in his ear before he reached and dialed another number. “Peterson. A.D. Brannon here. Gather your team and meet me at my house. We are taking down Dale McPhearson tonight.”

************
Sue looked up as the door of the conference room opened. She smiled as she watched Jack enter. He looks exhausted, she sighed, her heart filling concern as he trudged into the conference room. “What did D say?”

“A.D. Brannon is going to bring McPhearson in personally.” A weary smile graced his lips. “That means we can go home and get some sleep.”

Sue nodded, moving to rouse Maggie. She watched Jack from the corner of her eye as he bent, strapping an ankle holster with a second service weapon to his right ankle. She tried to stifle the anxious rolling of her stomach as she collected her purse from the table. What if McPhearson isn’t the fourth person? What if… she pushed the thoughts from her mind as she took Jack’s offered hand, following Maggie from the conference room. You can’t live your life on ‘what ifs’ Sue, she admonished herself. But still, something didn’t feel right.”

***********
Patience, the figure thought. You have been patient this far. Just a little longer. They have to come back sometime. The body eased towards the window, a smile forming on the lips as the dark haired agent, and the two women stepped from the car. And no Levi, the throat chuckled. Now we end it.

************
Bobby thumbed through the legal pad of notes he had taken during Dessa’s interrogation. It seemed like a lot of random rambling, yet it had somehow uncovered a much more devious plot. He sighed a he ran a tired hand across his eyes. No need to worry about this tonight. It’ll still be here later this morning, he thought. He stood up, stretching the kinks from his tall form. He jumped as he heard the door crash open as Tara came racing into the interrogation room. “Where’s Jack?”

“Gone home, luv.” Bobby glanced at his watch. “Been gone about 20 minutes or so. He’s probably already curled up asleep.” He watched as Tara frantically reached for her cell phone. He moved around the table, reaching her in two strides. He placed his hand on her shoulder, feeling the tremor in her body. “What is it, Tara?”

Tara turned to look at him. There was something written in her eyes that made the hair on his neck stand at attention. “I’ve finally heard from MI-6.”

***********
Jack sighed as he opened the door to Sue’s apartment. He swung the door open and allowed Maggie and Sue to enter. He followed, turning to scan the hallway one last time before shutting the door. He felt the hair on his arms stiffen as a chilly voice echoed in his ears. “Glad you could join us Jack.”

“Jessica,” he whispered. He felt the nausea rolling in waves in the pit of his stomach as he slowly turned from the door to face the woman he hoped he would never see again.

And know you know who the shadowy figure has been this whole time.
More later
Kim

Jessica. That's all you had to say to get my blood curdling.

How'd she get out of prison??? The she-cat probably clawed her way out!!

Keep Jack, Sue and Hope safe, Kim!!!

Tina

I was wondering about Jessica!! This just seemed like a plot she would be a part of!! But how did she get out of jail???

Bobby, Tara, get to Sue's apartment as fast as you can!!!

Joy

i had wondered about jessica but assumed she'd have been banged up in a maximum security jail

can't wait for maggie to turn up in church

cath

ACK! It's Jessica! She's going to try to hurt Sue because that's what would hurt Jack the most. How did she escape prison?

I can't wait to read the reunion between Hope and Mickey.

Love this story.

I KNEW IT! I din't want to voice my opinion, because I'm usually wrong, but I KNEW IT!

-pauses-

Did it just suddenly get colder in here or is it just me?

How in the world did Jessica escape from prison? Of course, I'm sure she can be of the "persuasive" kind if you get my drift and I'd bet my life on it that she would stoop that low just to get out of jail. UGH! Suddenly, just thinking about her makes me feel... dirty. I think I need to go take a shower.

Oh my gosh. I am speechless! I hadn't thought of Jessica (I try not to ).

I am luvvin' this story! But I think I'll stay here for now.

Donna

I think we all felt Jack's horror as he realized who was in the apartment. I have just pulled my seatbelt even tighter. Whatever is Jack going to do?

Jack winced as he turned to see the dark haired beauty holding Sue’s left arm twisted behind her back. He narrowed his eyes slightly as Jessica pulled upward on Sue’s arm, making his heart ache as the intake of air between her teeth reached his ears. He saw the glint of the gun held against Sue’s temple. Movement behind Sue caught his eye and he saw Maggie gingerly easing herself into a sitting position on the floor. “Now, Special Agent Hudson, kindly remove the gun from beneath your jacket and place it on the counter.”

Jack hesitated. “Jessica…” He clenched his teeth as Jessica pushed up on Sue’s twisted arm once more. This time, the woman that held his heart grunted in pain. He eased his hand beneath his jacket and removed the weapon, placing it where the dark haired vixen indicated. “How did you get here?”

Jessica chuckled. “Do you mean here as in this apartment or here as in out of prison?” She smiled slowly, batting her eyelashes at him. “You of all people should realize how effective I can be when I put my feminine wiles to use.” Jessica’s smile quickly became a frown. “Of course, the last time I saw you, you had become quite immune to them.” She glanced at Sue. “I can’t believe you chose some defective over me.” Her voice was sultry as she turned her gaze back to Jack. “We could have been terrific together. At one time we were.”

Jack felt his stomach try to rebel at her words. He was lucky enough not to have that many regrets in his life. But the woman standing in front of him was one of his biggest. How could I have ever thought she was the one, he wondered. A warm smile grew in his heart even as he kept his face calm and emotionless. Because you hadn’t see what real love was until Sue stormed into your life, Jack. He slowly gazed around the room as he responded, looking for any opening to attack without causing harm to Sue or Maggie. “That was a long time ago, Jessica. Before I learned that love goes much deeper than a mere physical attraction. To truly love someone, you should be willing to lay down your life for them.”

“And are you, Jack?” Jessica taunted. He shuddered as the woman pressed the gun farther into Sue’s temple. “Are you willing to trade your life for hers?”

Jack gazed into the hazel eyes that were still filled with love and trust despite the situation they were in. He knew Sue couldn’t hear Jessica’s words nor read her lips, but she could see and read his. If this was truly going to be the end of the road, he wanted to make sure that Sue never doubted his love for her. “Yes. I love Sue enough to gladly give my life for hers.” He stepped forward. “All you have to do is ask, Jessica. I’d trade my life for Sue’s in a heartbeat.” He slowly made another step forward. He held his arms out wide. “Is that what you want? Someone to sacrifice for the hurt you inflicted on yourself?”

“Stay where you are, Hudson,” Jessica barked. Jack stopped in his tracks, eyeing the woman coolly. His heart was pounding in his chest as he watched an evil grin curl on her lips. “There will be a sacrifice today. More than one as a matter of fact. I just need to decide who goes first.”

“You never did tell me how you got here.” Jack replied. He could hear the tremble in his own voice, but he hoped it didn’t transmit across the room to Jessica’s ears. He felt the cell phone vibrate in his pocket. Fighting the urge to respond in any way, he kept his gaze firmly fixed on the woman who held the love of his life in her hands. “You’ve always been a good story teller. How about telling me the story of your escape.” He shrugged slightly. “I think you owe me that much.”

************
Tara slammed the cell phone shut. She turned pleading eyes to Bobby. “Jack’s not picking up his cell. And Sue’s blackberry is off. Do I try the apartment?”

Bobby shook his head. “No.” She watched as he walked towards her. She took his outstretched hand. “We’ll just go over there.”

Tara nodded. She reached on her desk and picked up her purse. She and Bobby rushed out of the Bullpen. With each step she took, she offered up a silent prayer for the safety of her friends.

*************
Assistant Director Brannon smiled as the door of the Georgetown residence opened. He could see the sharp retort die on the man’s lips as he held up his credentials, the man inside the house paling considerably. “Dale McPhearson. I’m Assistant Director Brannon. I need you to come with me, sir. We have some questions for you about your involvement with the known terrorist, Arif Dessa.” He chuckled as the man started to shout about his rights. “I’m well aware of your rights, Mr. McPhearson. But I should let you know that Dessa is already in our custody.” Brannon’s smile deepened as he watched the panic fill the man’s face. “And, we have a witness.”

More later
Kim

Kim, you took me from tissues to terror in the span of about three minutes.

FGM

Geez -- I hope Bobby and Tara don't walk in on this scene and become potential victims too!

If Jack can just get to that gun in his ankle holster!

Whew! This is a real knuckle gripper!

Donna

i think sue must have been torn between being touched by his declaration of loving her enough to die for her and panicking that he might die in front of her

cath

My thoughts exactly.

Jessica!


Ornella

Just remember. NO ONE DIES!

Myles eased Jacey’s bedroom door open. He smiled as he saw the small body curled into a ball, sound asleep. When this case is over. His silent vow echoed in his head as he eased the door closed again. For the most part, the case was over. He ran his weary hand through his hair. It’s too late tonight, Leland. He glanced at his watch. Or too early, however you want to look at it. Of course, Jack, Sue and Maggie were just gathering their things to leave as he raced down to the parking garage to get into his car and come back to Alice’s. Surely after the excitement of the day they are still winding down. He reached into his pants pocket and pulled out his car keys. Only one way to find out. With a spring in his step, he hurried down the hall, grabbing his jacket off the back of the sofa, he headed out the door to Sue’s.

************
Sue’s heart was racing as she watched Jack’s responses. She couldn’t see Jessica’s lips, but she could feel the rumbling of the chest pressed against her side and knew the woman was speaking. She tried to silently tell Jack how much she loved him. It warmed her heart and chilled her soul to see him admit that he would gladly lay down his life for her. Please God. Keep him safe. I couldn’t bear to see him sacrifice himself for me. I love him so. Please God.

She watched as Jack continued to talk, urging Jessica to tell him how she escaped. She shivered slightly as she made eye contact with his dark brown eyes. Although his face was emotionless, she could see the love shining in his eyes. She watched as he slowly raised his right hand, laying it over his heart. She felt her lungs expanding to increase the oxygen as panic started to rise. Not his heart. Not now. The pounding of her heart slowed slightly as she realized he was not grasping his chest in pain. His thumb was extended at a right angle to his index finger. His middle fingers were curled beneath his hand leaving only his thumb, index finger and pinky exposed. In the middle of the chaos he was telling her in her own language that he loved her.

Easing her right hand down her thigh, she carefully extended her thumb while curling her middle fingers beneath her hand, leaving only her thumb, index finger and pinky exposed, mirroring the sign laying against his chest. Although his mouth never moved, she saw the smile in his eyes and knew he had understood. She loved him, too.

*************
Bobby swore under his breath as yet another traffic light stopped their progress towards Sue’s apartment. He was tempted to turn on the lights and siren, but if his best mates were in trouble, he didn’t want to make the situation worse by announcing to the neighborhood their arrival. He glanced over at the woman who had won his heart and smiled. Her lips were moving softly in what he could only imagine was a silent plea for their friends’ lives. He turned his attention back to the traffic, his foot hitting the accelerator as soon as the light changed. As the car streaked through the early morning D.C. streets, he added his own prayers to those Tara had been offering since she heard from MI-6.

**************
Maggie shuddered as she listened to the story Jessica told. She rolled her eyes, finding some amusement despite the desperation in the situation. And they call be a harlot, she chuckled softly. She felt the heat of the anger rising as she listened to the explicit way the dark haired woman with the British accent had won her freedom.

“So you see, Jack,” Jessica smiled. “Given the right situation, even the most loyal employee can be turned.” Maggie watched as Jessica started to ease her grip on Sue’s arm as she continued to talk. “Once I had made contact with my cousin, Leila, I was able to get in contact with Dessa. After explaining what an asset I could be on several levels, he was willing to help after I escaped. That’s where Daniel came in. Bless his heart, he was a homely, lonely guard. No one to call his own.” Maggie sneered at the sarcasm in Jessica’s voice. “He was so easily swayed once I offered him the female attention he craved. And, in the end, he turned out to be a descent lover. Of course, he wasn’t the best I ever had. But then, dear Jack, neither were you.”

Maggie was amazed at the control Jack Hudson had. That last statement that wh..woman made would have sent most men over the edge. But he just stood there, the same calm expression on his face. She did notice a slight twitch in his cheek as Jessica continued her verbal torture. She felt a wave of nausea as she heard the sound of the gun in the woman’s hand being cocked. “So now, Sir Jack. You can watch your fair maiden die.”

Maggie’s mind was whirling. She moved slightly, remembering that this was indeed Good Friday. A day of great sacrifice, she thought as her mind wandered back to the stories of her childhood. She could hear her father’s voice echoing through the church during the Good Friday service. “And He was the epitome of the verse ‘Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.’” Daddy was right, she thought. And these are my friends. The dearest ones I have had in a very long time. Maggie lifted her eyes and did something she had not done in earnest for a very long time. Please God. Protect Jack and Sue. And give me the strength to do what is necessary to save their lives. They don’t deserve to have it end this way. And please help Jacey understand exactly what kind of sacrifice was offered here today.
*********
Myles raised his fist to knock on the door. He groaned as he thought of the reaction the neighbors might have to someone pounding on the door in the early morning hours. His eyes drifted to the door knob. I wonder, he thought as he lowered his hand, reaching instead for the door knob. After all it is a secured building. A small smile grew on his lips as the knob turned easily in his hand.

*********
Maggie heard the door knob turned. Her body tensed as she eased closer to Sue, hoping that Jessica would be distracted by the opening door. She watched as Jessica’s hand released Sue’s arm, her face turning towards the sound of the opening door. As the door flew open, Maggie lunged forward, hands outstretched and making contact with Sue’s back.

***********
Jack heard the door open. He kept calm as he watched Jessica’s attention travel from Sue to the door. Dropping to his left knee, his right hand went to the ankle holster. In one fluid move, he removed the gun, aimed and pulled the trigger.

His eyes widened as the sound of two gunshots echoed around the room. He sank to his knees, his heart pounding in his chest as he watched the three female forms slip to the floor. “No! Sue!”

More later
Kim

You want me to sleep knowing only that NO ONE DIES?!?!?!

FGM ( looking for a bigger couch to hide behind)

WOW Kim - this is great! I'm trusting your statement that nobody dies! (thanks for posting that tidbit) It always eases the cliffies.

more, please.

Okay, you can loosen the seatbelts a little. The bumps are almost over.

Jack scrambled to his feet. Stumbling forward, he rushed to Sue’s side. He held his breath as he reached out to touch her crumpled form. A wave of relief rushed over him as he watched her push herself into a sitting position. He quickly examined her for any obvious injuries before gathering her in his arms. He felt the tears of gratitude fill his eyes and overflow down his cheeks as he breathed a prayer of thanks.

Sue squeezed her eyes shut, enjoying the safe circle of Jack’s arms around her. She felt the warmth as tears of relief eased down her cheeks. She wrapped her arms around his neck, her hands clinging to his shirt as she felt his shoulders shaking. “It’s okay, Jack. It’s okay. It’s over,” she whispered into his ear as she tenderly rocked in his embrace.

She felt the shoulders still and she eased her grip on his shirt. She pulled away, her heart breaking at the fear written on the tearstained face. She reached up and gently wiped the tears, tracing the lines at the corners of his eyes before trailing her fingers down his cheeks. Although she couldn’t hear the emotion in his voice, she could see his chin quivering as he started to speak. “Are you alright Sue? When I saw you crumple to the floor, I thought…”

Sue pulled him close as a fresh wave of tears spilled down his cheeks, his shoulders shaking slightly with the sobs she knew were there but couldn’t hear. “I’m fine Jack. Everything is going to be okay. I love you, darling. I love you.”

Jack sniffed softly, easing away from her comforting embrace. He reached up with an unsteady hand and gently placed a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. He caressed her cheek, wiping away the tears that streaked her delicate skin. He leaned forward, the urge to feel her lips against his overwhelming him. Her soft whimper as his lips touched his sent a wave of desire crashing through his body. He drew her closer, feeling her hand timidly exploring the muscles of his back while the other trailed through his hair. He deepened the kiss, his own hands wandering to her hair, sliding his fingers through the silky tresses. He eased away as he felt a breeze rush past him. He turned to see a pale Myles kneeling beside a still Maggie, tenderly drawing the scarlet woman into his arms. He returned his gaze to Sue and whispered, “Maggie.”

Myles had watched from the doorway as Maggie shoved Sue out of the way, putting herself in front of the gun Jessica held to Sue’s head. He cringed as the sound of gunshots echoed through the apartment. His heart thudded in his chest as he watched the women crumple to the ground, Jack’s shouts echoing in his ears. He felt a small wave of relief as he watched Sue sit up, seemingly unhurt.

Then he glanced at Maggie. She was laying at an awkward angle, unmoving. Myles felt as if he were running in mud as he tried to hurry to her side. He knelt beside her, tears obscuring his vision as he gently rolled her over. His heart stuck in his throat as he saw the red of her blood mingling with the auburn of her hair. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his handkerchief, holding it to the wound on Maggie’s temple. He drew her into his arms, she was limp, almost lifeless even though he could see the even rise and fall of her chest as her lungs continued to draw oxygen into her body. Her eyes were closed and Myles prayed that he could gaze into their golden brown depths just once more. “Maggie!” he shouted. “Maggie, don’t you leave me. Maggie wake up! Dear God in Heaven, please wake up!”

Bobby rushed into the room, stopping as he saw Sue sitting in Jack’s embrace. His stomach fell to the floor as he watched Myles, tears streaming down his face, cradling an unmoving Maggie in his arms. He felt Tara rush past him and kneel beside Jessica. He saw the computer whiz feel for a pulse, a look of panic in her face as she turned her head to gaze in his direction. “She’s alive, Bobby.”

Part of me wishes she wasn’t, he groaned as he pulled out his cell phone and dialed 911. “This is Special Agent Manning. I need two ambulances at…”

More later
Kim

Wow, Kim, I held my breath through that one. It was sad to read of Myles sitting there holding Maggie, but you gave us the assurance that she is alive. Maggie's prayer was indeed answered.

I stand amazed. The differences between the TWO stories you've got going... AT ONE TIME... is... AMAZING!!!! From fuzzies to fear and back again. You da' woman.

Tina

Kim, I got to read those three posts together, and I'm glad because I was holding my breath through all three!!!

I hope Maggie is not hurt too badly!! She has Myles now and that should help her pull through!!!

I have to agree with Bobby!! Part of me is sorry that Jessica is alive!! But she really needs to stand trial for her part in this nightmare!!!

Kim, you are awesome!!!

Joy

2 wonderfully scary posts, glad i woke up to them rather than going to sleep on them

glad maggie isn't going to die

cath

I totally and utterly agree! Kim, you are, in fact, Da Woman!

I'm so glad I read all three posts at one or I would have been walking around work, last night mumbling: "what happened? what happened?"

I figured Jessica would use her "feminine wiles" to get her out of prison... of course, isn't that why most top-security women's prisons have female guards? Of course, I still don't think that would have deterred her, either way.

They need to send that woman away to a place that her "ways" can't be used against others. Do they have prisons where the guards are nuns who've taken vows of silence?

Well, I knew it had to be Jessica! Slinking around so smugly superior. I hope Jack's shot was true anyway and we've seen the last of her! Isn't that a lovely Easter sentiment to express? And Maggie making that ultimate sacrifice! Wow -- you write action fluidly -- I was holding my breath and skimming along and then I had to go back just read it because it was so good and now I'm all jittering because I have this image of Myles holding Maggie -- where was she shot? and Bobby's private thought...Guess he still has some spiritual growing to get through.

kav

Happy Mother's Day! This is the last bumpy post, I promise. From this point forward, the danger is over.

Sue watched as Jack walked to window in the waiting room of the Emergency Department at George Washington. He had been so quite on the ride to the hospital. Her heart ached as the rising sun’s pink hues illuminated the dark shadows under Jack’s eyes. He’s blaming himself, she sighed. Blaming himself for something that was beyond his control. Just like…I do. She chuckled softly as she rose from her seat and crossed the waiting area to stand by his side. We are quite a pair, she thought as she wrapped her arms around his waist, her cheek lying against his muscular back. “It’s not your fault, Jack. You couldn’t have possibly known.”

She felt the muscles of Jack’s back move outward then inward as she assumed he drew in a deep breath. She lifted her head as she felt Jack turn in her arms. He placed his warm hands on her shoulders. Her breath caught in her throat as she saw the feeling of failure in the warm brown depths. She reached up and touched his cheek, the stubble rough against her palm as she caressed the taunt jaw. I wish I could take the hurt away, she thought as she smiled at him gently.

“Sue, if it weren’t for me and… and the relationship I had with Jessica then…” Sue reached up and placed her fingers against his lips, stopping the flow of words from his broken spirit.

“Jack, this had nothing to do with your relationship with Jessica. She was following Dessa’s orders.” Sue chuckled softly. “Of course, she probably enjoyed it more because she could use it as a way to hurt you. This is not your fault, sweetheart. No matter how much you want to make it that way.” She sighed as she watched him drop his gaze and turn away, his body language telling her he wasn’t buying it for a minute. She cupped his chin in her hand, gently turning his face back to her. “Jack, it could just as easily been someone from my past. Tony or Jonathon. Would you want me to blame myself like you are blaming yourself?”

Jack sighed, a small smile growing on his lips. He gazed in her hazel eyes. “No, of course not.”

“Sweetheart, we both have a past.” Jack felt his heart begin to thunder in his chest as Sue winked at him, nudging him playfully. “Granted, mine is not as colorful as yours but still…” Jack trembled as he watched her eyes fill with unconditional love, devotion and complete contentment as she reached up and feathered her fingers through the hair at his temples. “I love you, Jack Hudson. Nothing from your past or mine will ever change that.” He smiled softly, feeling the guilt lifting from his heart. “God brought Maggie into our lives to deepen our relationship. Bring us both to our senses so to speak. And that same God didn’t bring us together with a promise of smooth sailing, Jack. He didn’t promise to move the mountains in our lives, but He did promise to give us the strength to overcome them.” He felt her fingers drift down his cheeks as she tenderly took his face into her hands. “And with you by my side, I could climb Mt. Everest.”

Jack’s smile was brilliant. Sue’s heart lifted as she watched the sadness in his chocolate eyes fade and the sparkle of love return as he gazed at her. “How do you always know what to say to make me feel better?”

Sue grinned as he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her closer to him. “Let’s just say I had a wonderful training agent. He’s kind and sweet and…”

“Completely head-over-heels in love with you,” Jack interjected. She shivered as he lifted one hand from her waist and trailed it up her arm. Her skin tingled as his fingers lightly dances across her shoulder and up her neck to gently caress her cheek. “And as long as you are in my life, Sue Thomas. As long as you are by my side, I can climb any mountain this life places in front of us.”

Sue watched as Jack lowered his head, his breath warm and sweet against her cheeks. She closed her eyes as he inched closer, her lips tingling in anticipation of the touch of his lips against hers. She sighed softly as she barely felt his lips touch hers in a feather softness that made her tremble. As suddenly as his lips were there, they were gone. She could feel the rumble in his chest. She opened her eyes, raising her eyebrows in question. She felt the heat rush to her cheeks as she saw Jack mouth, “D.”

She turned quickly in Jack’s arms, trying to push away from him. She groaned as he only held her tighter. She could feel his chest rumbling against her back and assumed he was laughing at her distress. Knowing her struggle would prove fruitless, she stopped and placed her hands over his at her waist, standing firmly in his arms. She sighed, wondering just how flushed her cheeks were. D’s warm smile and knowing wink did little to settle the butterflies in her stomach. “Good morning, D.”

“Good morning you two,” D nodded. “I thought I’d drop by and get an update on Maggie.”

Sue turned slightly so she could see Jack’s face. There was still a sadness in his eyes, but the guilt was gone. “We’re still waiting to hear, D. Myles is down there now.”

“Myles has been sitting outside the trauma bay since the paramedics brought her in,” Sue sighed. Her heart ached for the fear she had seen in Myles’ blue eyes as they loaded Maggie into the ambulance.

D nodded thoughtfully. “Lucy is bringing Jacey and Alice by as soon as Jacey wakes up.” Sue saw him hesitate for a moment before speaking again. “What about Jessica?”

Jack shrugged slightly. He felt the anger start to boil in his stomach for the woman who had nearly taken his heart a few hours earlier. This may be Good Friday, he thought. But my feelings for her definitely do not go along with the forgiving grace of the season. “I don’t know D. All I know is that she is in surgery.”

D nodded again. “I understand, Jack.” Jack watched as a slow smile grew on his supervisor’s lips. “I thought you might like to know that Dale McPhearson told us everything. It looks like Dessa and Jessica as well as the rest of the group will be going away for a long, long time.”

Jack sighed deeply. It’s over, he thought as he hugged Sue against him. It’s finally over.

“Is anyone here for Maggie…” Jack watched as the doctor paused, searching the chart for a last name.

He dropped his arms from Sue’s waist and stepped forward. “That would be us.” He took Sue by the hand and led her towards the doctor. With each step he made he prayed that the woman who had come to mean so much to the whole team would be alright. He searched the doctor’s face as he approached. He stopped in front of the doctor, gazing around as D, Tara and Bobby moved in beside him. “What’s the news?” Jack felt his heart thunder in his chest as he watch the doctor lift his eyes from the chart in his hand.

More later
Kim

Ooooooh! Fuzzies!!!!

Now how 'bout some fuzzies for Myles and Maggie? Pretty please?

FGM

wonderfully tender post

i'm sure it's good news about maggie but i hope jessica succumbs to a nasty infection f she makes it through surgery

cath

We got to see Jack and Sue have a very tender moment in the waiting room, and now we wait with the team to find out about Maggie

It's official! You all can unbuckle those seatbelts. Although, you might want to keep a few of these handy. This story may get a little sappy later on.

Bobby held his breath as he watched the doctor raise his eyes. Please God, let her be okay, he prayed. And while Your at it, could You forgive this drongo for judging her before I saw her true character and worth. She’s got more integrity and intestinal fortitude than some of the other FBI agents I know. When she comes out of this, I’d be more than happy to call her a friend. He glanced around the small group and saw the concern etched on each face for the woman that was more than the prostitute or possible snitch she had been a week ago. In fact, I’d say she is a member of the family, whether she wants to be or not. “Yeah, Doc. What’s the good word?”

His heart soared as the doctor smiled. “She is going to be just fine.”

“WhooHooo,” Bobby shouted. He wrapped Tara in his arms, lifting her from the ground, he spun her in a joyous jig. He sat her on her feet and kissed her soundly. He turned, smiling sheepishly as he heard Jack clear his throat sharply. “Sorry mate.”

Jack rolled his eyes. “You were saying Doctor.”

The doctor smiled. “She is going to be fine. The bullet entered at her temple at such an angle that is skidded across the bone and exited at the hairline of her forehead. We’ve stitched up the wounds, placed her on an antibiotic drip to ward off infection and gave her a little sedation. We’ll keep her here for observation today, but barring anything unforeseen, she will be able to go home tomorrow. Give her a few days to recover at home and she should be able to resume her normal activities.”

“Over my dead body,” Bobby whispered under his breath. He gasped as he realized he had given voice to his thoughts. The chuckling of his comrades only added to his exasperation as he hurriedly tried to explain his meaning to the shocked physician. “What I mean is, Doc. We, uh,” He glanced around the group and saw confirming nods. He smiled. “We have no intention of letting Maggie go back to her formal lifestyle. She’s too good for that.”

“We just have to convince her of that,” Tara added.

“Well, it will take a team effort,” Jack replied.

“But we are up to the challenge, aren’t we team?” Sue smiled.

Bobby’s voice joined the others affirmative reply. He turned his attention back to the chuckling doctor. “When can we see her?”

“Well.” Bobby watched as the doctor looked at the group, a knowing twinkle in the gray eyes. “Policy would say that we need to get her a little more settled in her room first. But I have a feeling you guys won’t take that answer very well. So, if you will follow me.” Bobby smiled as the doctor took a few steps before turning to face the group. “And with the determination you all have, I don’t think Maggie stands a chance of going back.”

*********
Maggie opened her eyes and sighed as a pair of blue eyes came into focus. Although they weren’t the same color as Jamal’s the love written there was the same. And this time I think I might just take the chance, she thought as the fog started to lift a little from her aching head. “Myles,” she smiled. She reached up and delicately touched the bandages, wincing slightly at the tenderness. “Did you get the name of the guy who dinged me with the baseball?”

“Hey there, Sleeping Beauty,” Myles chuckled. She felt the warmth of his hand covering hers. “I was beginning to wonder if you were going to sleep forever. And yeah, we got her.” She watched as his expression changed, a seriousness that touched her heart crinkling the corners of his eyes. “You scared me to death, Maggie. Don’t you ever do something that stupid…or brave again.”

Maggie lifted her free hand and saluted. “Yes sir.”

Myles leaned closer, his lips hovering just above hers. She shivered as she felt his warm breath against her cheeks. Her heart was pounding in her chest as his sweet smell wafted over her. She wondered when the heart monitor would start alarming. Her breath caught in her throat as his whispered, “And since this case is officially over…”

“Momma!” Maggie sighed as Myles pulled away. She smiled placing her hand over her hammering heart as Jacey’s freckled face came bounding into the room.

“Hey, sweetie.” She patted the bed, sliding over a bit so Jacey could clamor up beside her. “How are you doing?”

“I’m doing fine. And Mr. Jack and Miss Sue said that you are doing fine too. They said some evil woman shot you. When I asked them where, they told me your head. And I told them that it would be okay. You have the hardest head in the world. Mr. Myles said so.”

Maggie turned to Myles and narrowed her eyes. “Is that so?” A small, teasing smile curled her lips as Myles sheepishly shrugged his shoulders.

“It was in the heat of the moment,” Myles whispered.

“Momma.” Maggie turned her attention back to the sweet, innocent child bouncing slightly on the bed beside her. “Mr. Jack and Miss Sue said that you get to go home tomorrow. That means we could go to church with them on Sunday.”

Maggie swallowed hard as the butterflies of doubt started to flutter in the pit of her stomach. “Jacey, you can go. I’m not sure I have anything,” Maggie paused, sighing with regret. “Appropriate to wear.”

“That’s okay.” Maggie turned to see Lucy step towards the end of the bed. “Since tomorrow is Saturday, we can go shopping after we spring you from this place.”

“We’ll make a girls day out,” Tara replied. Maggie smiled softly as the computer whiz stepped beside Lucy. “A shopping trip and maybe a trip to the salon for some new spring hair styles.”

“And maybe you’d let the guys tag along to carry the bags,” Bobby added. Maggie rolled her eyes as the Australian stepped behind Myles. His hand lay on his team mate’s shoulder as he winked. “Who knows, maybe we can talk Harvard here into springing for lunch.”

Maggie smiled, sniffling back the tears that threatened to overwhelm her. What did I do to deserve this kindness? she thought. You opened your heart to them, Maggie. That’s what you did. “Thanks guys. But I’m not sure church is the place for me right now.”

She turned as she saw Jack and Sue step up behind Jacey. Jack’s arm rested around Sue’s waist, his brow eyes filled with compassion. “I think church is the absolute right place for you. You belong there with us, Maggie. Not on the corner of 14th and K streets. Not any more.”

Maggie lowered her eyes, feeling the moisture slip passed her lashes and spill down her cheeks. She felt a warm hand on her arm. Lifting her eyes, she met hazel ones filled with the light of acceptance and love. “Church on Easter Sunday morning is the perfect place for Hope to begin anew,” Sue smiled softly.

Maggie nodded her head. She didn’t miss the emphasis Sue placed on the word hope. It’s almost as if… She turned to see the brown eyes hovering next to the hazel ones. In the depths of their eyes, she could see not only understanding, but knowledge. Knowledge that the fakeness of the auburn hair, the almost-too-short skirts, the body that served men and her name was not the real person buried inside. The real person buried inside was trying hard to claw her way up from beneath years of slop to stand in the sunlight of grace once again. They know.

“Okay ladies and gentleman.” Maggie moved her eyes to see the nurse standing in the door way. “This young lady needs her rest. You all can come back in a little while.”

Maggie smiled as the group of friends groaned and moaned as they slowly exited the room. She turned to see Myles pull a chair closer to the bed and sit down. “Are you staying?” she asked. She hoped her voice didn’t betray the yearning in her heart. She wanted nothing more than to feel Myles warm spirit sitting next to her. But she knew he needed sleep as much as she did.

“Of course,” he smiled. “Maggie, I’m here for as long as you want me to be.”

She reached over and took his hand in his. She gazed into his clear blue eyes, a tiny fluttering in her heart as he gave her a small grin. She closed her eyes. “Good,” she whispered as the sedatives took her away into a dreamless sleep.

More later
Kim

It is such a treat to see Myles and Maggie coming together like this. Maggie has opened her heart and now healing and restoration can begin.

Wow! I wish I had something more intelligent to say but words escape me...just ....wow!

FGM (who happens to love sappy)

PROMISE?

Tina

Jack smiled as he pulled into the parking space outside his apartment building. He turned to watch Sue sleeping peacefully beside him. He took a moment to just watch her sleep, knowing that in the early morning hours he could have lost her forever. He blinked back the tears as the image of Jessica holding the gun to Sue’s head flitted through his mind. It was just another reminder of how dangerous their jobs were; of how quickly they could lose one another. He smiled as memories of the evening spent falling asleep in her in his arms and waking with her golden hair spread across his chest pushed the ugly memories of the case away. He marveled at just what this particular case had brought to his life. It brought a new friend in Maggie. It brought me to my senses, nudging me to tell Sue how I feel. It brought me her love and gave her mine in return. He reached over and tenderly ran the back of his crooked index finger down her cheek. And it made me realize that I want her by my side forever, both at work and at home. He felt the warmth of the morning sun touch his hand as it bathed Sue in its warm glow. A new day and another chance, he thought as he gently shook Sue’s shoulder to wake her. And this time, I’m going to grab that chance with both hands and hold on.

Sue stirred in the seat, stretching gently as her eyes fluttered open. She smiled as Jack placed a soft kiss on her cheek. Jack could see the confusion in her eyes as she gazed at the familiar building in front of them. “Jack. What are we doing at your apartment?”

He reached over and took her hand in his. “The crime scene unit is still going over your apartment. Then the Bureau is going to come in and clean it, making any repairs necessary before they let you and Lucy back in. It won’t be ready before Monday. Lucy’s going to stay with her grandmother.” He smiled softly. “And I was hoping you would stay here, with me.”

“But Jack,” Sue protested. He laughed as a soft blush crept across her face. “I don’t have clothes are anything.”

“We’ll swing by your place and you can pack a bag before we go back to visit Maggie later this afternoon.” He drew her hand to his lips, gently kissing her knuckles. “In the mean time, I think I have something you can wear.” He released his seatbelt and reached for the door handle, his eyes never leaving her blushing face. “Now come on. You and I both could use some sleep after the night we’ve had.”

Sue nodded. She sighed as she waited for Jack to come around and open her car door. A warm smile grew on her lips as memories of the time she spent with Jack over the last week played in her mind. She almost needed to pinch herself to believe that this was real. That Jack Hudson loves me. The case is over and he still loves me. She felt the morning breeze against her face as he opened the car door. She unbuckled her seatbelt and took his offered hand, allowing him to help her out of the car.

She settled her hand more deeply into his as they crossed the parking lot and entered his apartment building. She could feel the butterflies starting as they entered the elevator. Somehow, she felt as if her life were about to change. She only hoped it would be changing for the better.

Jack unlocked his apartment door, a rumble of nerves building his stomach as he step inside ahead of Sue. He quickly scanned the apartment before he pulled her inside, his pounding heart returning to a more normal rhythm. He dropped his car keys on the table by the door and took Sue’s purse from her, placing it beside his keys. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he looked at the perfection of her purse sitting by his keys. There was something about seeing her purse beside his keys that made this apartment feel like home for the first time since he moved in.

He turned towards Sue, pulling her to him as his arms went around her waist. Slowly, he lowered his lips to hers, drinking in the sweet nectar of her taste as he slowly deepened the kiss, giving into the desires that had flooded him since the moment he saw Jessica hold Sue’s arm behind her back. Sue’s soft moans only added to fuel to the growing fire coursing through his body. Carefully, tenderly, he explored her willing mouth, giving all he had and getting more in return. Feeling the line he had vowed not to step over until after he had the right to do so quickly approaching, he eased the kiss. Slowly, he pulled away, pulling her head to his chest, he held her tightly, relishing in the soft curves pressing against him as he held her in his arms. Finally, he eased his grip on her, moving one hand to tenderly lift her chin so she could read his lips. “Why don’t you go settle in on the couch for a minute?” He smiled as she pulled away from his slightly. Releasing her from his embrace, he sighed. “I’ll go find that something for you to wear. Then you can shower and relax for a while.”

Jack watched as Sue nodded, her graceful form easing away as she turned to walk into his living room. Once he was sure she was settled, he started down the hallway to his bedroom and the nightstand drawer that held the treasured box. As he entered his bedroom, he flipped on the light. Reaching in his pants pocket, he removed his cell phone. He quickly found the number he had programmed in the phone earlier. He pushed the button and put the phone to his ears, his palms sweating as he waited for the ringing to end. Hearing a groggy voice on the other end, he cleared his throat. “Mr. Thomas, this is Jack Hudson. I know it’s early, but could you get your wife on the phone with you. I need to ask you both something.”

Sue smiled as her eyes took in the objects in Jack’s apartment. She had been here before, but it felt different this time. After all, I have never been here as Jack’s girlfriend before. Her eyes scanned the pictures sitting in frames scattered about the living room. She was surprised to see just how many of them were of her. It warmed her heart to know that even though he had been slow to act on his feelings, he had loved her all along.

She fidgeted as she glanced at her watch. It sure is taking Jack a long time to find me something to wear. Her heart thudded in her chest as panic began to rise. After all, they had been through quite a bit. What if something is wrong? What if he is trying to decide how to tell me that I’m not worth the effort? What if… The thoughts faded away as she saw Jack enter the living room. He was smiling at her, his brown eyes filled with love and certainty as he approached.

“It’s about time you got back, Hudson,” she teased. Sue raised her eyebrows as she noticed his hands were empty. “What, you didn’t have anything in my size?”

She watched as his smile grew larger. There was a spring in his step as he made his way to the couch. “Oh, I’ve got something that I think will be a perfect fit,” he grinned.

Sue scooted over on the couch to make room for Jack to sit down. She furrowed her brow as he bypassed the couch and continued to move until he was standing in front of her. She watched as Jack reached into his pocket. Her eyes misted as she watched Jack lower himself to one knee.

Her hand trembled as he took it into his hand. She blinked furiously to quell the tears the obscured her view of his wonderful lips. And I don’t think I want to miss this, she thought as he reached up and wiped the tears from her eyes.

Jack felt the tears in his own eyes as he raised Sue’s hand to his lips, gently kissing her hand. He swallowed hard, trying to force the lump that had formed there to move so he could speak. “Sue, of all the cases we have been on over the past nearly four years, this case has taught me the most.” He smiled softly. “Or more precisely, Maggie has taught me the most. In her story, I found the strength to seize the day and tell the most wonderful woman in the world that I love her. In her regret, I found the desire to not suffer those same regrets. I love you Sue Thomas. I have since the first time I laid eyes on you. I know I’ve bumbled and dithered and hid behind rules. But no more. You are my world. I find my strength in your smile. I see my faith reflected in your eyes. And spending time at work and a few hours after work are no longer enough. I want you by my side every minute of every day until the end of time. Sue Thomas, will you do me the greatest honor in the world and become my wife?” Jack held his breath as he opened the ring box to reveal the elegant diamond he had bought months ago. He looked into her misty hazel eyes and waited.

Sue smiled weakly as she saw the love she felt reflected back in his eyes. She gasped at the elegant diamond ring he held in his hands. It was the exact one she had eyed every time she ventured into the jewelry store near the Hoover Building. Jack Hudson was her heart, her soul, the love of her life and he wanted her as his wife. Her lips quivered as she squeezed his hand gently. “Yes,” she whispered. “Yes I will marry you.”

A small sob escaped her lips as he removed the ring from the box and slid it onto the ring finger of her left hand. It was a perfect fit. Her gaze went from the ring to his warm brown eyes, tears rolling down his cheeks. But his smile was brilliant as he looked at her. “See, I told you I had something for you to wear. And I knew it would be a perfect fit.”

More later
Kim

beautiful

loved myles and maggie too

cath

What a lovely fuzzy to wake up to...

FGM (frantically looking for a thesaurus to find the adjectives to write something more intelligent than just WOW)

Oh, my gosh. I just caught up with these last three posts! You were very busy overnight! I wantd to comment after each one, but I'll say it all now! Awesome, wonderful, beautiful and . . . and . . Where do I stop? This is a wonderful, wonderful story! I stand in awe of your creative writing!

Donna

Wow... from a simple kiss with Tara and Bobby and then Myles and Maggie, now Jack and Sue.... yup, there's nothing more to do than just .

Sheesh -- will you stop making me cry! I'm so excited for Hope to go to church and see her brother. I love how the team is coming together and Jack's proprosal has left me all in a dither.

More, more, more and may it never end!
kav

I loved it!!!!

Em

Wow....I just caught up on A LOT of great posts! Fantastic! I can't wait for the reunion between brother and sister at church!

Yes Jack! I'll marry you!

Oh, wait... he asked Sue... Well, OK, that's just as well. A fish (fanfic character) and a bird (real live person) could fall in love, but where would they live?

Beautiful proposal Kim, just beautiful.

Tina