that was wonderful at last taras shown her feelings for him
so now some more change has happened for the best cany wait for more
Lin

Great way to put it Bobby... "I'm home."

Tina

Wow! That was bursting with the tension! And Santa is coming to the rescue just like Mary Alice wanted? With all the good guys converging I think I'm safe in guessing that this is going to be a Merry Christmas for everyone...including Bobby and Tara.

kav

That was a wonderful rescue.

Ellen wanted this to be as normal a Christmas Eve as possible, despite the heaviness in her heart. Holding Kyle in her arms and Chad by the hand, she led her little family into the church, just like she had every year since Matt was born. The surroundings were comfortable, familiar. The same choir director and choir members arrayed in the same black robes with red stoles stood in the same place in the choir loft behind the pulpit. The same kind faced minister, slightly grayer now than then occupied the chair behind the pulpit as the same organist played the familiar arrangements of Christmas carols as the parishioners filed into the same pews. The lights of candles flickered in the windowsills below the venerable stained glass depictions of the Virgin Mary and Joseph gazing in adoration at the infant in the manger and other scenes from the gospels. The only thing that made this year different from all the other years was she was alone. Tony wasn’t anchoring the end of the bench, their children sitting between them as they filled the pew.

She stepped into the row that had been home to their family for years. She sat down, settling Kyle on her lap before pulling Chad up onto the pew beside her. She blinked away the tears as she watched Matt help Mary Alice onto the pew before sitting down on the end of the pew, taking his father’s place as the anchor. She noticed how he seemed to sit a little taller, looking more like a man than the nine year old boy she’d left home with fifteen minutes before. Pride in him swelled despite the whispered prayer that Tony would return and lift the mantle of adulthood from Matt’s shoulders. She didn’t want her eldest to miss his childhood. Wiping the tears that pooled just beneath her lashes, she turned, focusing her attention on the beautiful music as the choir began to sing while her soul pleaded for a Christmas miracle.



Jack had never seen a more stubborn man in his whole life than the one sitting in the backseat of the black SUV that was just entering the city limits of the nation’s capital. Tony had refused the medical advice of the emergency physicians at Good Samaritan Hospital and allowed them to only clean him up and stitch the laceration on his head. They’d wanted him to stay for observation. But in true macho fashion, he refused, admitting later that he didn’t want to be anywhere else but home with his family for Christmas. And for that, Jack couldn’t blame him.

He glanced at the blonde woman by his side who wore his ring and held not only his heart but his soul. She was gazing at the Christmas lights quickly passing the window as the car sped along the streets of the city. If he were in Tony’s shoes and Sue and their children were expecting him home, he’d fight the devil himself to get to them. At least he allowed us to drive him home, Jack smiled as he glanced at the pale, bruised face of the man he once thought of as a nemesis. “You ready to head home, Tony?”

“Yeah,” Tony sighed.

There was something in the tone that made Jack question the sincerity. “What? You don’t think you’ll be welcomed at home?”

“Oh, I’ll be welcomed, I guess. When the family gets home.” Tony glanced at his watch before meeting Jack’s gaze in the rearview mirror. “Ellen’s probably taken the kids to church. It’s kind of a family tradition for Christmas Eve. The service should be over in about fifteen minutes.”

Jack smiled as he slowed the vehicle slightly, preparing to make a detour from his current trajectory if necessary. “How long will it take to get to the church from here?”

“About ten minutes. Why?”

Jack chuckled at the puzzled look on Tony’s face. “What better way to celebrate a miracle than at church. Give me the directions, pal.”



Ellen was disappointed as she emerged from the church with her children in tow. Not in the service. The service was spectacular as always. What did you think would happen, Ellen, she asked herself as she and the kids ambled up the sidewalk towards their SUV. The back door to open and Tony to come racing up the aisle. Or for him to come dropping down for the ceiling. Face it. This is one Christmas where wishes just are not going to come true.

She pressed the button on the remote to unlock the car doors, the headlights flashing merrily as they approached. She headed towards the passenger door on the driver’s side with Kyle in arms and Chad’s hand clutched tightly to hers. She looked over her shoulder at Matty bringing up the rear holding Mary Alice’s hand. “Can you get your sister in the car while I get Kyle and Chad settled?”

“Sure mom.” Matt wished with all his heart that he could do something to lift his mother’s spirits. He knew she was missing their dad as much as they were. He turned to his little sister, encouraging her to walk as quickly as she could. “Come on, Mary Alice. Let’s get in the car.”

He placed his hand on the passenger door and tugged it open. He walked around behind Mary Alice to lift her into the SUV. He felt a warm hand on his shoulder, stopping his progress. He was speechless as he turned to gaze into twinkling dark eyes. He started to speak, but a finger held against his lips stopped his voice.

“Mat-ty. Hur-ry up,” Mary Alice ordered as she stood facing the open car door. “I wan-na get in the car.”

“Why don’t you let me help you out there, princess?”

Her eyes teared up as she turned towards the voice she had heard her whole life. Her mouth dropped open as it was lit with the inward glow of complete and utter joy. “Daddy!” she screamed as she launched herself into his arms. Snuggling against his chest, her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, she hung on for dear life. All she wanted for Christmas was holding her tightly against his chest, whispered how much he loved his little princess. “Daddy,” she sobbed, tears streaming from her eyes. “Daddy,” she whispered as he held her closer still.

His tears wet the top of his little girl’s hair. Shifting slightly, he held her in one arm as the other one wrapped around Matty who was sobbing as he clung to his waist. Soon, Chad was hanging on to his pants’ leg as Ellen rounded the vehicle with Kyle still in her arms. Despite the tears streaming freely from her eyes, her smile was more brilliant than he’d ever seen. He grinned back at her. He’d have swept her into his arms if they weren’t already full of the products of their love. Wrapping her in the warmth of his gaze, he beckoned her to him. As a small sob escaped her lips, her free arm was around him, their children squeezed between them. “Shhh,” he comforted, caressing her cheek with his. “Shhh, sweetheart. Don’t cry. I’m home. Sweetheart, I’m home.”

More later
Kim

In Tara's arms Bobby is truly home.
Absolutely love this story,
thanks,
Terie

Oops! Somehow I missed the next post before I commented on the previous one. Oh well, this one was a two kleenix box one and very good.
thanks,
Terie

Such a sweet reunion!

Now - Jack had better get his wife home before she drowns the both of them with the tears I know she's shedding. Her hormones are all topsy-turvy and the first thing you lose control of is your tear ducts - they flow at the change of the wind!!!!!

This is wonderful, Kim!

I couldn't have put it better myself. You gave voice to my thoughts. A hanky at hand is what I needed for this early in the morning, I bet I look like a drowned rat as I go into work!!!

Flip said it best. Now that they granted Mary Alice's wish, Sue can take her hubby home and tell him her news while sitting underneath the Christmas tree.

I lost it when Mary Alice screamed out, "Daddy." You wrote that so beautifully, Kim.

Unfortunately I missed this last night and read it at work this morning instead. Now how am I supposed to explain my sniffling? Beautiful reunion Kim. Just the reactions we all were hoping for.

Now did someone mention Jack taking Sue home quickly? It is after all Christmas Eve and she has quite a gift to give him...

Tina

Kim, I read your last two posts at work this morning too, and they were both tearjerkers!! I don't know what caused more tears - Tara running for Bobby, or Mary Alice jumping into Tony's arms!! You've really shown us a different Tony here, and I have to say I like him!!!

Yes, Jack needs to get the little mother to be out of the cold, and the little mother to be needs to tell Jack that he's going to be a daddy!!!

Joy

I promise, Sue will tell Jack he's going to be a daddy before she goes into labor. Just not in this post.

Standing outside their apartment door, Jack carefully wiped the tears from Sue’s cheeks. She had been gently crying since they watched Tony’s reunion with his family. Although it was not unusual for sentimentally sweet scenes to touch his caring wife deeply, he was concerned about the length of time the tears had been falling from her eyes. She had been crying, non-stop for the past half hour. With concern creasing his forehead, he focused on her tear streaked face as he gently held it in his hands, his thumbs tenderly wiping away the barrage of drops still seeping from her eyes. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong.”

“Nothing,” she sniffed, her own hands lifting to wipe the tears away. He smiled softly as she shook her head, trying hard to rein in her emotions. “I’m just so happy for them, Jack. And to think, we had a hand in that. We made a little girl’s Christmas wish come true.”

“Well, I’m not surprised,” he chuckled. The tears stopped as a puzzled look wrinkled her forehead. “You have lots of experience making wishes come true, sweetheart,” he winked. “You make mine come true every morning when I wake up in your arms, throughout the day when you are by my side and at night when I fall asleep with your head on my shoulder and your hand over my heart. You are my fairy godmother and all the wishes she could grant wrapped up in one package.”

“Oh, Jack.” She gave him a wobbly smile as another deluge started from the corners of her eyes. He took her in his arms, holding her tightly as she buried her head against his chest, her shoulders shaking in silent sobs. His hand rand soothingly up and down her spine over the black wool coat she wore to fight off the chill of the D.C. air. He placed a gentle kiss against the top of her head before tucking her head beneath his chin. Closing his eyes, he held her while she cried until all the tears were spent.

“Hey Spark,” Bobby’s voice called causing Jack to lift his head and open his eyes. His friend’s eyes were twinkling softly, but not with amusement. They twinkled with the light of a man who had found peace with himself. “Have we moved the party into the hallway or what?”

Jack chuckled, the movement of his chest causing Sue to lift her head. “Bobby,” he mouthed. Seeing the flush of embarrassment starting to creep across her cheeks, he pulled her head back to his chest, shielding her from their friends quickly gathering in the hallway until she had a chance to collect herself. Moving his hand to his pocket, he extracted his key ring and handed it to the Australian. “You guys go on in. Sue and I will be there in a minute.”

“Is everything okay?” Lucy asked, concern for her best friend filling her eyes.

Jack nodded. “We just need a few minutes, Luce.” He felt his own tears prickling his eyes as images from the church parking lot fill his mind. “Sometimes the happiness of making Christmas wishes come true is so great, it has nowhere to go but out the eyes.”

Lucy smiled and nodded. She moved around the couple standing in the hallway to join the rest of the team in her old apartment. Taking over the roll of hostess until Jack and Sue could join them, she enlisted the aid of Tara and began setting out the refreshments. Gazing across the room at the man who held her heart, his left arm resting in a black sling to take the weight off the broken collarbone, she felt her own happiness prickling her eyes as he smiled at her. Christmas truly was a season where wishes came true.



“Sue okay, Jack?” Bobby noticed the concerned frown that followed Sue down the hall. Once they entered the apartment, she had quickly excused herself to go ‘fix her face.’

“Yeah, Crash,” Jack replied with a sigh. A lopsided grin tugged at the corner of his mouth as he turned to face his friend, a glimmer of unshed tears in his eyes. “You should have seen it Bobby. Mary Alice’s brown eyes were as big as saucers when she turned around to find her daddy there to help her into the car. I bet you could have heard her scream ‘Daddy’ all the way to Virginia. When I watched her tonight, I think I saw pure joy for the first time in my life.” He shook his head, a single tear escaping the tight reins on his emotions.

“I would say that Sue wasn’t the only one affected by the reunion,” Bobby chuckled. “One time, not so long ago, a certain tough as nails special agent wouldn’t have been affected quite so much.”

Jack chuckled softly, nodding his agreement. “That’s because he’d have never gone out of his way to help someone like Tony Capono.” The trademark Hudson shrug followed. “Like I’ve said before, Bobby. Priorities change.”

“If you let them,” Bobby whispered. He lowered his head quickly, noting the quizzical look Jack sent his way. Blinking hard to stem the moisture he felt burning his own eyes, he continued to stare at the patterns of knots and grain that ran through the hardwood floors. “I’ve heard that a lot over these past few days,” he admitted.


“Well, it’s true,” Jack whispered.

Bobby nodded. “Yeah, I’m beginning to realize that.” He raised his eyes, gazing at the man who had been his best friend for over ten years. Still was if his stupidity over the last three months hadn’t driven wedge between them that couldn’t be repaired. “Jack. About what I said when you took that promotion…”

Jack’s hand rested on his shoulder, squeezing it gently. “It’s okay, Crash.”

“No, Spark. It isn’t.” He drew in a deep breath. “I’m sorry Jack. You were right. You were right to take that promotion. You were right to want to keep Sue from going threw the nightmares of having a husband who spent his days in the line of fire. When Sue came into your life, your priorities changed. What I mistook for you moving on and leaving me behind was just you adjusting your life to make more room for those priorities. I’m just sorry I didn’t recognize that sooner.”

Jack smiled. “That’s okay, Bobby,” he whispered. “Like I said, I hope one day you find yourself in the same situation I am.” He chuckled as his friend crinkled his face in confusion. “A man whose life is so full of blessings you have to make adjustments so that they all fit.”

Bobby’s gaze drifted across the room to where Tara was talking quite animatedly to D and Donna. Jack noticed the subtle shift in his friend, following the gaze that was now filled with a soft longing he himself still felt when he gazed at Sue. He smiled to himself. “Looks like you may find those priorities of yours changing before you know it.”

Bobby turned to look at Jack with a dumbfounded arch to his eyebrows. Jack chuckled and slapped his friend on the back, nodding in the direction of the effervescent computer whiz. “Just don’t take as long as it took me to tell Sue how I felt.” A pang of regret rippled through him. “When I think of all the wasted time when Sue and I could…” his voice trailed off as Sue re-entered the living room.

Bobby chuckled at his love struck friend. “I see what you mean, Jack.” His gaze once more drifted to Tara. “I see what you mean.”

Tara felt Bobby approach. She knew it was him by the way the tiny shiver started at the base of her spine and traveled upwards and outwards until the hairs on her arms stood on end. She turned, gasping at the veil of shyness and uncertainty in his green eyes. The two mugs in his hand were sending a fine thread of steam into the air. He extended on of them to her. “Here. I thought you might like some hot chocolate.”

“Thank you,” she whispered. The uncertainty and awkwardness she often felt around her fellow agent were intensified because of the reaction she had upon seeing him emerging from the warehouse hours ago. Lowering her eyes, she lifted the mug to her lips, hoping the warmth of the sweet concoction would help relieve the butterflies building in her stomach.

“Tara, umm. Tara…”

Despite the butterflies, she chuckled softly at Bobby’s awkwardness. “That’s my name, Bobby,” she giggled. “At least the last time I checked.”

The dimples deepened, plunging deep in his cheeks. “Yeah, I guess it is.” He scuffed the toe of one shoe on the masonry work of the fireplace. He hadn’t felt like this since Jr. High. His gaze drifted back to her face, her beauty and perkiness causing his heart to thunder in his chest. “Tara, I was wondering. Well I mean if you don’t have any plans or anything. What I’m trying to say…”

“Bobby, spit it out,” she chuckled.

Bobby sighed, the rumble of laughter shaking in his chest. He should have known better than to hem and haw with Tara the flutterbudget. “Tara, if you don’t have any plans for tomorrow, I wondered if you would like to join me for lunch.”

Tara’ heart soared for a moment until she remembered her plans. “Bobby I’d love to. But Mom and Dad are driving in to spend Christmas with me.” Her heart ached at the crestfallen look he quickly tried to cover. “If you don’t mind listening to my parents reminisce over my childhood, I’d love it if you would join me.”

“Are you sure?” His voice was unsure. “I mean if you’d rather spend Christmas with…”

She placed her hand on his arm. Looking deeply into his eyes, she allowed him a peek into her heart. “There’s nothing I’d rather do than spend Christmas with you, Bobby.”

Slowly, his dimples reappeared as the uncertainty lifted from his eyes. “What time do I need to be there?”

More later
Kim

NOW, why wait till tomorrow. Once the party is over you could go back with her. Stay on the couch or spare room, talk till the small hours and help prepare things for her parents arrival. See Bobby, could work his way up to telling Tara about the depth of his care and concern!!!

Sue's tears made me want to cry, but if she doesn't tell Jack soon, I'm afraid she might just flood their apartment.

Perfect post Kim. (I seem to be saying things like that to you a lot these days, don't I? Me thinks it's because someone's writing skills are just growing, and growing, and growing. Getting better all the time...)

Jack's holding Sue in the hall made me all shivery inside, followed by warm, mellow fuzzies. And I just loved, loved, loved this statement... “Sometimes the happiness of making Christmas wishes come true is so great, it has nowhere to go but out the eyes.” , what a wonderful way to put it!

Oh, now I just want to cry too! Think I can tell everybody I stubbed my toe or something when they see my tears? And I pretty sure I'm going to need another excuse for your next post!

Tina

Kim, I thought I had toughened myself up because I had managed to get through some posts without tears, but I haven't!! You write so deliciously that Charleston, known for its rivers, is going to have a new river soon!!!

Joy

caught up on 2 wonderful post so pleased maryalice got her daddy back
and bobbys got tara in his life now maybe sue can give jack the best christmas present in the world by telling him hes going to be A daddy cant wait for the next post Kim
Lin

The party was in full swing, laughter echoing inside the apartment as old friends reminisced on the past and prognosticated the future. Sue was happy to see Bobby was his old self again. Somewhere over the last few days he must have realized that though their work situation had changed, their friendship and the bonds that made them a family would never change. He and Tara were exchanging shy glances that conjured up images of Jack and herself when they first started down the winding road that finally included a stop at the altar.

Her gaze drifted to Myles and Lucy. She had seen them go from enemies to begrudging respect to friendship to romance blossoming anew. The more relaxed Myles and the less judgmental Lucy looked good together. They looked happy and relaxed, more sure of what their future might hold.

Slowly, her eyes came to rest on Donna and D. The elder statesman of the group and his bride were the steadying rocks of the group. In them, the others found a couple who had survived the uncertainty of an agent’s life, the loss of an unborn child and the terrors of parenting two near teenagers in today’s society. They proved that, given the right combination of tenacity and understanding with a liberal sprinkling of love, a marriage could and did survive.

A gentle brush against her leg caught her attention. She looked down from her perch on the arm of the sofa and saw Levi’s lolling tongue and wagging tail. His eyes darted to the door. As she started to rise, Jack moved passed her. “Door,” he mouthed with a smile. She nodded and followed him.

Jack was taken aback when he opened the door. He never expected Tony and his family to arrive on his doorstep. Of course, he didn’t expect to see Ellen on his doorstep ten days ago either. He grinned as his eyes danced across the excited faces of the four Capono children. “Come on in,” he urged, stepping aside to let them enter.

“That’s okay, Jack,” Ellen replied. “I can see you guys are busy. We’ll come back some other time.”

“Nonsense,” Sue’s voice replied as she came up behind Jack. “Come on in and joy the party.”

“Really,” Tony smiled shyly. “We couldn’t. We can see…”

“At least come in for some hot chocolate,” Jack urged. His eyes drifted to the smiling Mary Alice. “You’d like some hot chocolate, wouldn’t you sweetie?” An exuberant nod was the reply. He grinned as he met her parents’ gaze. “See. Come on in.”

“Just for a few minutes,” Ellen sighed, ushering the children inside. Tony brought up the rear.

The gang in the living room smiled and welcomed the newcomers warmly. Bobby instantly taking on over Matt while Myles took to Mary Alice with a sparkle in his blue eyes. This left Lucy and Tara to squeal over Chad and Kyle while Donna and D talked softly to Tony and Ellen. Jack helped Sue in the kitchen with the hot chocolate, feeling a rush of warmness that came with seeing a case successfully completed. This warmth was mixed with the pride of knowing it was one of their own they had saved.

Once everyone was situated with warm mugs, Tony cleared his throat, garnering the attention of everyone in the room. Jack noticed the shimmer of unshed tears in the harden agent’s eyes. “I just wanted to say thank you,” he began. “Thank you for thinking enough of my little girl to make her Christmas wish come true.” His chin began to quiver as he struggled to maintain control. “You’ll never know what it meant to me…” His voice cracked as tears dripped from his dark lashes. “Thank you,” he whispered.

“Think nothing of it,” Myles replied, his own voice tight with emotion.

“The Bureau takes care of its own,” D added.

“I just never thought,” Tony began, his voice stronger but still trembling with emotion. “After all I did all those months ago. Nearly getting Sue hurt. Almost ruining the blossoming relationship between her and Jack…”

“Priorities change,” Bobby grinned. He offered a gentle wink to both Tony and Jack. “That’s what a couple of wise men told me once.”

“To changing priorities,” Jack smiled, lifting his mug in toast.

“To changing priorities,” echoed the others in the room.

“Mr. Jack,” Mary Alice’s soft voice caught his attention. He smiled, kneeling down to look the little girl in the eyes. “Momma and Daddy said that sometimes Santa needs a helper to bring kids’ wishes.”

Jack nodded gently at the solemn eyed child. “That’s right sweetheart. Sometimes he does.”

“And Momma and Daddy said that this year, you and Miss Sue were those helpers. That it was you guys that helped Santa make my wish for Daddy to come home come true.”

Jack smiled, the innocence of childhood touching his heart. “I guess we did, Mary Alice.”

Her smile was brilliant as she shuffled closer. Her tiny arms wrapped around his neck as he put her arms around her. “I’m awfully glad you did. Can you do me one more favor?”

“Sure,” Jack shrugged. He blinked back the tears that threatened to fall.

“Could you tell Santa I said thank you?” Jack nodded. “And could you give him this?” She drew herself against him, hugging with all her might. Her tiny lips touched his cheeks. “And that’s for you. Thank you Mr. Jack.”

“You’re welcome, sweetheart,” he whispered as he pulled her back to him, the tears slipping freely from his eyes.

More later
Kim

That was absolutely wonderful. That little girl sure pulled at the heart strings, mine included.

Oh goobers - this is sure to set Sue's tears off again big time!

Kim, this story is so touching. You seem to outdo yourself with each post.

that was bautiful out of the mouths of babes comes the truth
just loved it
Lin

Thank you all for sticking with this story. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Now, without further ado, the Final Post. Thanks again, guys!

It was past midnight by the time the team left and the last dish was washed. Sue showered and readied herself for bed while Jack gave Levi one last trip around the block before locking up and turning out the lights. Jack had returned just a few minutes before, brushing a quick kiss against her lips before he started his shower. She waited until she was sure he wouldn’t be venturing back into the bedroom before she slipped from beneath the covers. Quickly donning her blue robe over her pajamas, she padded from the room.

The living room was bathed in the soft white glow of the Christmas tree lights. She eased around the sofa and squatted in front of the tree. Her hands trembled as she removed the tiered gift from beneath the tree. She and Jack had agreed to wait until morning to exchange gifts, but this one wouldn’t wait. Besides, she thought as she glanced at the hands on the clock above the mantle. It is Christmas morning. Just very early Christmas morning. Her hand pressed gently against the chilly floor as she stood. Padding softly across the room, she hoped Jack would still be in the shower when she returned to the bedroom.

Jack’s side of the bed was still empty when she entered. She smiled as she hurried across the room. She placed the gift on his pillow, removed her robe as she hurried around to her side and crawled into the downy softness of her bed. The butterflies in her stomach raced as she willed the trembling in her hands to stop as she reached for her book perched on the bedside table.

When Jack emerged from the bathroom, he found Sue reclining against the headboard, her eyes gently moving across the pages of the new book Tara had given her for Christmas. He smiled as he thought about all the different ways he could remove the book and focus her attention on him. As he neared his side of the bed, the skin of his bare chest dimpling with the chill in the room, he noticed the packages on his pillow. It was the same three boxes tied with a red bow Sue had placed under the tree earlier in the week. “What’s this?” he asked when his wife’s gaze lifted from the book to him.

He question was met with a gentle shrug. He could see the muscles in her lips twist as she tried to hide the smile tugging at the corners. “What’s what, Jack?”

He grinned, pointing to the gifts as he sat on his side of the bed facing her. “This gift on my pillow.” His eyebrows arched in question. “I thought we weren’t exchanging gifts until the morning.”

“It is the morning,” Sue chuckled.

Jack rolled his eyes. “I don’t consider this morning.” He pointed towards the darkened windows across the room, his gaze steadily meeting hers. “When the sun streams through that window, then it’s morning.”

Sue shook her head, giving him an unconcerned look as she lifted her book from her lap. “Good thing I don’t know anything about that gift then.”

His hand covered the book, gently pushing it down until her hazel eyes met his gaze. “What do you mean you don’t know anything about that gift?”

“I mean I don’t know who it’s from, Jack.”

“Sue,” he sighed. His brows furrowed slightly as he gazed at his wife struggling to stifle her grin and the laughter he could see floating in her eyes. “This has to be from you. After all, there’s only the two of us in this apartment.”

“Maybe,” Sue shrugged. “Maybe not.” She could see her beloved husband was getting slightly annoyed with her little game. She closed her book and placed it on the bedside table. She reached for the gift and placed it in Jack’s lap. “There’s only one way to find out for sure. Go ahead. Open it, Jack.”

Jack started to protest, but something twinkling in her eyes caused him to swallow it instead. His mouth was oddly dry and his hands shook slightly as he carefully tugged on the ribbons at the edge of the bow. He had no idea what was beneath the gold wrapping paper, but he knew from the fluttering in his stomach that it was something precious.

Carefully, he lifted the edges of the wrapping paper on the small thin present on the top of the stack. He glanced at the plain white appointment card now lying in the palm of his hand. Sue Hudson. January 5, 2008. 9:00 a.m. His gaze drifted to his wife. She merely shrugged and silently nodded towards the next present.

The next present was unwrapped with a little less care. He tugged on the top of the now unwrapped gift box. Carefully, he lifted a tiny hockey jersey matching the ones he and Sue owned from the box. Holding it against his chest, he smiled at his wife. “A little small, don’t you think?”

“Maybe,” Sue shrugged.

She held her breath as he tore into the final package, all thoughts of care vanished as the excitement twinkled in his dark brown eyes. The thick book plopped unceremoniously in his lap. As he turned it over, his eyes widened, his adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed. A single tear slipped from his eyes as he turned to meet her gaze, holding up the book. With What To Expect When You’re Expecting, held gently in his hands, he asked. “Sue?”

“See. I told you those weren’t from me.” She swiped at the tears streaming from her own eyes. “Merry Christmas, Daddy.”

Jack stared at her in disbelief for a moment as the greatest gift he’d ever been given slowly sunk in. Moving the gifts from the bed, he slid closer to her, his hand hesitantly reaching for he still flat stomach. As he touched the softness of her pajamas, he lifted his eyes to meet her teary gaze. “A baby?”

She couldn’t hear the awe in his voice, but she saw it dancing in his eyes and shimmering on his quivering lips. Her voice was lost somewhere in the tears of joy streaming from her eyes. She nodded slowly.

“The appointment card?”

“I thought you might want to come with me when the doctor calculates my due date.”

“The hockey jersey?”

“It’s not fair for Mommy and Daddy to have one and Baby not to.”

“The book?”

“Jack, I thought, after all these years as an agent, you’d see the benefit of doing a little research.”

He swallowed again, his hand still resting against her stomach. “A baby?” he asked again, still uncertain that his greatest wish was coming true.

Sue nodded, her brow furrowing in concern as she reached to place her hand over his. “You are happy about this, aren’t you, Jack?”

He felt a pang of guilt at the uncertainty in her voice. He never meant to make her think that he was anything but over the moon about the news. Leaning closer, he pulled her into his arms. As his lips slowly descended towards her, he finally found his voice. “Happy doesn’t even begin to describe it, sweetheart.”

As Sue cuddled against him, her bare skin still shimmering with the moisture of passion, he smiled. Of all the gifts waiting for him under the tree this year and in all the years to come, nothing would ever be greater or more important than the one created in their love and growing in the safety of Sue’s womb. As he listened to the soft whistle of her even breathing, he thought back over the events of the last ten days. He’d set out to give Ellen and her family a Christmas miracle. And yet, once again, he’d come out of it the more blessed. In giving Ellen her miracle, he had been given the blessing of being able to see next year’s Christmas lights shimmering in the eyes of his infant without seeing the ache of loss in Mary Alice’s. Sue had been right all along. He needed to do this. Not for Tony. Not even for Ellen or Mary Alice. But for them. For the future Christmases spent watching the wonder of the season through their children’s eyes. As the fingers of sleep slowly closed his eyes, his hand moved to rest protectively over their Christmas miracle. Thank You, his soul whispered to the heavens as he drifted into dreams filled with teddy bears and baby blankets.

The End

Well now you've done it. I'm a big time cryer, and I should know better than to read the end of this story before going to bed, but I did it anyway and now I'm going to have to change my pillowcase in the morning.

A baby? Yes Jack, a baby. That's what happens when you love your wife like you do. Sigh.

Thank you again, and again, and again Kim!!

Tina

BTW Flip... goobers?

1/1 - Page 12 - Post #169 - Uh oh! It's time to stop breathing, not only for our team, but also for John, whom I suspect is going to play a pivotal role in this rescue.

1/2 - Page 12 - Post #178 - The waiting for Tony, although trained for it, must be excruitiating. Keeping in good physical and mental shape has to be hard under those circumstances. The team only has 46 minutes now to get Tony out. And D and Lucy are going to be on that north side and in harms way, not to mention Myles, Bobby and Tom who will be in the warehouse. Why do I have this awful feeling in the pit of my stomach that someone is about to die. And Myles went in thru the North entrance. Good observation Bobby...keep that in mind as maybe a good place for them to hide during the explosion if they can't make it out? But wait a minute...that's where Tony was being kept? Bobby found him? But....guess I'd better read on.....ACK! the explosion, but it hasn't been 46 min yet....thank goodness the door swung shut...that's probably the only thing that's going to save them. But what about Myles? It's a good thing he hadn't reached the door yet...but, is he going to be alright?

On a side note...I was very moved at the description of Bobby's and Tony's emotions. I, too, got a lump in my throat and found it hard to swallow.

1/2 - Page 13 - Post #185 - Thank goodness they're all going to be okay. Tony may have a concussion and Myles' injured shoulder may be the only casualties...wait a minute, why was Bobby limping? And Myles and Lucy expressed their love for each other! Nothing like a little brush with death to get the ole mouth to express what the heart is feeling. And who would have guessed it would be Santa Claus coming to the rescue to dig out Bobby and Tony! I'm sure glad my premonition about someone dying was way off base, Kim! Thank you.

Not sure how much farther I can get tonight...but, attempting to read on.....

Lynn

I would say that this story has eveything that makes a story come alive; love, redemption, fear, hope and even struggle. Thank you for a great story, Kim.

1/3 - Page 13 - Post #194 - I like John's plan. It definitely sounds like the safest!

[quote] “He chose Sue over you?”

“Yeah,” he responded slowly. In the darkness of the bunker he had a light bulb moment. That was what the problem was. Jack had chosen Sue over him. Just like Darcy had chosen L.A. and Mac had chosen freedom. Once again, he felt abandoned. [/quote]

What a revelation for Bobby! Hooray for Tony, being perceptive enough to see that without really knowing the circumstances. Did I really just say 'hooray for Tony'? Kim, you have definitely transformed my image of Tony for all time!

[quote]When we pledged our lives to one another, we promised to share the burdens of this life as well as the buoyant joy. If you feel responsible for every little thing that happens, then that makes me responsible too.” [/quote]

[quote]She offered the strength he needed. He offered his in return. The love they shared enough to carry them through a lifetime and all the crises and joys that went with it. [/quote]

Oh, to have a love like that!

1/3 - Page 14 - Post #200 - I'm glad Bobby told Tony about Jack and Sue being the ones to initiate finding and rescuing Tony. Now Tony will be in a position to ask for their forgiveness, enabling him to complete the transformation of his change of priorities; i.e. ask your enemy for forgiveness.

[quote] “Bobby!” she shouted. The Australian stopped as his gaze lifted in her direction. [/quote]

You had me crying from this point on Kim with Tara's love for Bobby uncontainable!

1/3 - Page 14 - Post #205 -

[quote] She didn’t want her eldest to miss his childhood. Wiping the tears that pooled just beneath her lashes, she turned, focusing her attention on the beautiful music as the choir began to sing while her soul pleaded for a Christmas miracle. [/quote]

The tears are really flowing after this short scene, Kim. Beautifully done! Even though I know Tony has been rescued, my heart weighs heavy at Alice's thoughts!

[quote] Jack chuckled at the puzzled look on Tony’s face. “What better way to celebrate a miracle than at church. Give me the directions, pal.” [/quote]

Now a torrent is falling.

[quote] He felt a warm hand on his shoulder, stopping his progress. He was speechless as he turned to gaze into twinkling dark eyes. [/quote]

Make way for the flood, cause there is going to be one now! I have to stop here and let this wonderfully moving reunion linger over and through me, Kim.

Lynn

Kim, the last two posts were.............!! You brought the true meaning of your story into those posts - love, honor, love, caring, love, belonging, love, believing.......I could go on and on - did I mention love (both loving each other and yourself)?? I cried like a baby and will do so again because I will definitely read this again and again!!!

Thank you so much for sharing your incredible talent with us once again!!!

Joy

Kim that was beautiful so filled with love hope and miracles
loved it so much jacks over the moon hes about to be A daddy but please can we have a sequel to this most wonderful story please pretty please
Lin

I got to finish that all in one setting! Marvellous! Tony's reunion with his familyw as perfect...and I actually almost liked the man... now that might give me nightmares tonight! And the way Sue told Jack she was pregnant! Poor man,he couldn't quite seem to grasp it all, could he? Mind you I don't know why he should be so surprised. After all the...trying...it was bound to happen, wasn't it?

kav

Went through an entire kleenix box with the last couple of posts.
thanks for a great story,
Terie

Well Kim, I guess I won't put this off any longer. I've saved your last three posts for my last read tonight so I can go to bed with fuzzies on my mind. And b/c I just didn't want to finish reading...I don't want this story to end. Okay, here goes.

1/4 - Page 15 - Post #214 - I knew it...the tears are flowing....I loved this line: And Bobby got himself invited to Christmas dinner at Tara's, with her parents. Your on your way Bobby!

1/4 - Page 15 - Post #220 - Uh huh! There's a creek here in my TX town too...filling up fast....

I loved the recap of each couple...especially D and Donna: Again, a very beautiful description. Now there is a lump in my throat as my tear ducts are working overtime at Tony's and especially Mary Alice's speeches. I'm glad her parents told Mary Alice that Santa sometimes needs helpers! There can't be a dry eye in that room right about then! As I read somewhere, this just keeps getting betterer and betterer!

1/4 - Page 15 - Post #224 - You did not disappoint. I'm speechless....as well as crying.... Thank You, Kim, for this beautiful masterpiece....a most romantic, anguishing, romantic, suspenseful, romantic, Christmas story with love abounding throughout. The emotions your writing generates is an awesome experience!

Lynn

Kim, I'm so glad I bought that share in Kleenex tissues. I have loved every post. From The Copona family reunion, to the team accepting Tony and his family into their home and lives. To Bobby finally accepting that things do change, but he's never really been abandoned. Last but not by any mean least, Jack and Sue and their forever love. Now there'll be an addition to their small family. I love the way she told him. A present from baby to daddy.

Kim, you are a great writer and I can't wait for more!!!

BRAVO!!

A wonderful, cute, touching story!!!

Congratulations Kim!!

I can't say anything more!

Only that I admire you, writing 3 stories at the same time, WOW!!



HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Tere

I've been playing a lot of catch up since being away for Christmas. This story has been such a wonderful picture of sacrificial love and the blessings rewarded. Taking emotions from hurt or angry, to regret and apologies and then filled again with that unconditional love that was truly there all the time. I love the priorites change. That is so true.

Bravo Kim and