Now I can go to sleep and dream of Paris!!



Sweet dreams!

Tere

Wow! That would be an arrow from Cupid that I'd gladly take.

Myles sure is romantic when he puts his heart into it!

I am sorry, I had the intention to post yesterday but...
Josy + migraine = an very useless Josy. I could barely keep my eyes open so I went in bed at 7:45pm...
Now, I am enjoying a day off and a huge snowstorm dumping almost 30 cm or 12 inches of snow...did I say that I love snow!!
Enjoy and more tonight!
Josy
~~~~~~~~~~

Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.
Paul Boese


Tuesday night
Myles’ house

Her tears touched him deeply. Her eyes were the mirror of her soul. He closed his eyes as the hot water of the shower massaged his shoulders. He remembered how she loved Paris. Her candid confession at the beginning of their relationship snuggled on the back on his memory and haunted him since. Lucy was a romantic at heart. Little things could delight her. However, he was aware that she hid her candid personality behind a mask of anger when she was with him. He recognized that it was his fault: his behavior had been abhorrent. Unfortunately, he could not go back and rectified his errors. Still, his deepest desire was to be forgiven. He wished for a renewed in their relationship. He sighed and turned off the shower. The large bathroom was filled with hot humidity and the mirror didn’t reflect anymore. With a towel enrolled around his waist, he dried out quickly the mist-up mirror. Absent-minded, he started to shave and his mind wandered back to Lucy.

After she opened the envelope and read the little note, Lucy locked up herself into a touched silence. The team respected her quiet behavior and they buried into the case. He observed how her gaze traveled hesitantly towards him. He detected millions of questions into her dark and soft eyes. He tried to hide his sentiments at the best he could but it was becoming harder and harder.

He knew that she didn’t trust him. He regretted that she was still mad at him. An acute pain pinched his soul: he wondered if she would ever forgive him. The mirror reflected an image of him. He frowned as anger stirred in his heart. Anger against himself: he let his past and his own wounds dictated his attitude, his behavior, his acts and his thoughts.

Stop shaving, he shook his head with dismay and he cleaned up his face. Walking out of the bathroom, a cold draught wrapped him up. He shivered and hurried to get dressed. He entered the living room where a joyful fire and the warmth of the room awaited for him. His eyes traveled to the gift he aspired to give to Lucy.

He sat comfortably on the sofa and stared at the ivory blank card. For the long minutes, he looked intensely at the card. Hi sighed and raked his wet hair. He would like to tell her so many things but words escaped him.

He felt unworthy of her. He felt ashamed. How can he ask her to forgive him if he couldn’t forgive himself? At that moment, a quote from Mother Teresa jolted in his heart.

If we really want to love
We must learn how to forgive

His shoulders slumped slightly and he lowered his head. He had to stop for blaming himself: yes, he was taking responsibility for his errors but has had to learn to let go.

“Easier to say than to do” he thought sadly. Still, a sentiment pushed him to pursue his musing. Since forever, he wrapped his real self into a blanket of pride and coldness. However, a certain blonde analyst succeeded to crack that façade. He smiled faintly as memories of their encounter into the stairs and how Sue’s words make him realize that he could not continue pushing everyone out of his life.

He lifted his chin and the blank ivory card was lying on the coffee table. With trembling fingers, he reached for it and sighed deeply. He wished that she could trust him again. He wished that she could forgive him and started from a clean slate. He will have to show her that he desired to amend himself.

He hoped she be willing to accept his apology. The fire crackled and the flames danced happily. The silence enveloped him and from his heart, he let the flow of his emotions flowing on the card.

Both Myles and Lucy are hurting - maybe they can both forgive!!!

Very beautifully written post, Josy!!!

Joy

This is so sad...

I agree. But it is also something he needs to work through for healing to begin. It's like the peaks and valleys...he's in a valley but he's ready to head out of it, full steam ahead!

Jill

Wonderful post Josy! very touching!



Tere

After shovelling and grousing against that snow (and still falling), as promised, there a snippet
Don't get me wrong, I love snow but not when I had to shovel
Enjoy
Josy
~~~~~~~~~~~

It is impossible to go through life without trust: that is to be imprisoned in the worst cell of all, oneself.
~ ~Graham Greene ~ ~

The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him.
~ ~Henry Lewis Stimson ~ ~

Wednesday
Outside the Hoover Building

Lucy was walking aimlessly. The cold weather enveloped her. The icy wind chilled her to the bone. Sniffling, she frowned, knowing well that sniffling was not lady-like but she forgot the tissues. She shrugged and continued her walk. Suddenly, she felt a hand on her shoulder. Gasping, she swiveled on her heel and met some ocean blue eyes. Myles!

Placing her hand at her throat, her lips took the shape of an “O” but she couldn’t say a word. A gentle smile was floating on his lips.

“I am sorry Lucy” apologized Myles with a soft tone. Lucy nodded and rocked on her feet, cold and shivering.

“What do you want Myles?” she asked more bitter she really wanted to. She regretted her tone and bit her bottom lip.

“Were you waiting to get some frostbites before heading back to work?” he replied dryly. She wrinkled her nose to hide her smile. She shook her head.

“No..I..” but words again escaped her. She sighed and closed her eyes. Her heart quivered and she hated to show her sensitive side, especially to Myles. Again, a hand on her shoulder: she flung her eyes opened and Myles read all the dismay in the mirror of her soul. His presence destabilized her. She was losing control of her emotions, of her thoughts, of everything she thought that was true.

“Lucy, are you alright?” he asked, truly worried. His tone was serious, calm and it didn’t hold any trace of tease or sarcasm. Bewildered by the softness of his voice, she remained speechless. She wanted to ask him, boldly, if he was Cupid but she was afraid of his reply. What if his reply was yes? How she would react? Would she be happy or upset? Would she accept these gifts, the flowers? But why he would do that?

“To be forgiven and to be trust again” whispered a quiet voice in her heart. She gulped down with difficulty. She couldn’t feel her fingers anymore and she tried to warm them up.

In a wink, she felt Myles’ warm and strong fingers enveloping her. The tenderness of this touch made her heart missed a beat. She blushed and lowered her head hastily. Her gaze caught their fingers interlaced and she flushed even deeper. The heat stung her skin.

“I was looking for you” he finally said matter-of-factly. “Honestly, I was the one brave enough to affront that weather to look for you. D. needs some documents and doesn’t want to venture on your desk since you made clear few weeks ago that your desk was not everyone’s desk”, he said lightly. She giggled and lifted her head. She met his deep blue eyes that were shining of laughter.

She removed her fingers and plunged them in her coat’s pocket.

“But I had my cell phone” she replied while fishing for her cell. An “Oh!” came quickly as she realized that her batteries were dead.

She laughed frankly and her smile brightened her features. Mesmerized by her smile, Myles didn’t reply but found a way to nod. They walked back to the bullpen, both enveloped in their silence.

Only one question floated in their mind: “Will she have the courage to accept an apology from him?”

Sorry, for whatever reason, the post appeared twice!!
Sorry and have a good evening
Josy

That sums up their situation, doesn't it???



And if she does accept his apology, is it too late for a second chance?

Another touching post, so real, I can see them, Lucy freezing and Myles coming to get her

Tere

Exactly what I was thinking.

As I was reading I was trying to put myself in Lucy's place and realized just how difficult it would be to forgive totally, forget totally, and move on!!!

Joy

Great job showing how deep seated their pain is. I can only imagine how painful what Myles did was to her. I only hope that Lucy can forgive him.

I hope she has the courage to accept it...and I hope Josy didn't get buried under a pile of snow destined never to be seen until spring!

kav

What a great couple of posts! Loved Myle's introspection... and his obvious care and concern for Lucy shine through. Looking forward to the next!

Hope the snow's not too bad with you!

Kav, Eclipsse, even if we received over 12 inches on snow, I stopped couting after five the number of time I shoveled my entryway, I considered myself not snowed in
I have to apologize for that lack of posting...unfortunately, some mortality happened in my husband's family over the weekend and my next postings might be erratic due to the following days with wake and funerals.
However, I'll do my best and I am pretty certain I could be done by the deadline
Josy
AN: The poem is from Dan Fogerlberg
~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Hope" is the thing with feathers- that perches in the soul...
~ ~Emily Dickinson ~ ~

Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.
~ ~Mark Twain ~ ~

Wednesday evening
Sue and Lucy’s apartment

Hands full of bags, she tried to slide her key in the lock but it fell from her fingers. Groaning, she bent and fetched it from the ground. She heard giggles behind her back and swiveled on her heels.

“Girls I would like to see you try” she smirked, handing her key to Tara who had fewer bags that herself and Sue. Lucy backed up and let Tara tried, who, ironically, succeeded on the first try. Laughing, all three girls entered the apartment while Levi was pulling on his leash and made the girls stumbled on the entryway floor. Hooting and laughing, the girls tried to untangle their bags and legs. Barking with excitement, Levi ran around them, thinking it was a game. Laughing so hard, they didn’t heard or see, a man holding a bouquet, standing in the hallway. A light couch jolted Tara who turned quickly and met some grey twinkling eyes. Tara’s gaze captured right away the flowers.

“Miss Lucy Dotson?” he asked, with a laugh in his voice. Tara shook her head in negation. She was able to stand up on her feet and in the same fact, Sue and Lucy were capable to get up and they face the delivery man. His grey eyes and his freckled face gave him a childish look and his crooked smile gave him the resemblance of a teenager.

Still giggling, Tara nudged Lucy in her shoulder.

“It seems that your Cupid struck again, Luce” exclaimed an amused Tara. Lucy smiled shyly and still giggling, she approached the delivery man or boy at it seemed for her.

“I’m Lucy Dotson” she greeted and he gave her his pad where she signed nervously her name. She couldn’t remove her eyes from the bouquet. He gave her the bouquet and after a wink, he left the building, whistling.

Cluttered up with the bags full of food and the bouquet, Lucy managed to gain entry of her apartment where Sue helped her with the bags and everything was laid on the island counter.

Completely mesmerized by the bouquet, Lucy didn’t dare to touch it. It appeared so fragile and such a beauty exuded of it. She could hear Tara and Sue putting away the food they bought for another girl night-out. Tomorrow will be Valentine day and the guys asked gently but firmly that Sue and Tara occupied themselves for the night as they wanted to plan everything perfectly.

Gladly, Lucy invited Tara over for another movie, laughs and confidences. Lucy felt a hand squeezing lightly her shoulder. She turned her head and laid her chin on Sue’s fingers. Her hazel eyes showed all the softness and the caring of her heart. Lucy smiled shyly and turned back her sight to the flowers. The island had been cleaned up and only the bouquet was laying there.

It was white: beautifully white. Lucy could distinguish three shapes of flowers, all white and they were snuggled into a bed of ivy. The scent enveloped her sense and brought tears to her eyes. On the corner of her eyes, she saw Tara opened her laptop. Her gaze switched back to the garland. She found the creamy envelope, attached to the stems. Her name was carefully written on the envelope. She was attracted irresistibly. Still, a sentiment pinched her heart: apprehension. What if…

Sue’s gentle voice broke her musing and she observed the joyful eyes of Tara.

“You’ll have to help here Luce. I am not sure to recognize some flowers” said Tara, tiptoes on the kitchen floor. Lucy smiled and chuckled.

“It’s a blend of white camellia, gardenia and marjoram nestled on a bed of ivy and…” but she stopped. She realized that in the middle on that white bouquet, a white rose was almost blending in.

“And a single white rose” completed Sue softly. She observed Lucy’s blushed cheeks but also her troubled dark eyes. She laid her hand on her friend’s fingers. Slowly, Lucy turned her head and waited.

“Who do you think is your Cupid?” asked gently the blonde woman. Lucy’s lips twitched nervously and she lowered her gaze. “Will they think I’m foolish?”, she thought nervously.

“I am…not sure”, she said nervously. Tara leaned over the counter and rose a eyebrow.

“You know, Luce, you can tell us” she stated, trying to convince her friend to open up. Lucy nodded

“I think it’s Myles” she whispered simply. Sue and Tara didn’t seem surprise. Really thinking of it, it was making sense.

Nevertheless, she didn’t know if she could… She shook her head ruefully and questioned Tara.

“Can you find the meanings of these flowers?” she asked while touching delicately the petals: silky and fresh. Tara acquiesced happily and turned her focus to her laptop.

“As per the same website, the white camellia means “You are adorable”, then, the gardenia go for “You’re lovely or “Secret love” and the marjoram stands for “dry your tears”, explained Tara slowly.

“And the ivy?” asked Sue, while pouring some wine into the glasses she placed on the counter. Tara lowered her head and searched quickly.

“It implied either “wedded love”, or “Fidelity, Friendship and Affection””, stated Tara while taking a sip of her red wine. All these definitions swirled danced, bounced in Lucy’s head and they made her dizzy. Leaning over the counter, she reached for the white rose and took it delicately in her fingers. The envelope felt on the dark surface but her gaze was hypnotized by the rose.

“The white rose means “Innocence and Purity, I am Worthy of You, You're Heavenly, Secrecy and Silence”, said Tara before Lucy could ask the question. The petals were soft under her touch and the color seemed so pure. The whole bouquet took her breathe away. With trembling fingers, she sled the envelope and she felt Levi’s wet nuzzle on her thigh. Absent-minded, she caressed his square head and the touch calmed the frenzy on her heartbeat.

“What are you afraid of Lucy?”. The question was asked gently by her roommate. She turned and met her hazel gaze. She took awhile before replying. Rocking on her feet, she played with the envelope.

“I am afraid to be hurt again” she whispered. She perceived the sound of Tara’s laptop being shut and she lifted her chin.

“Maybe he seeks for your forgiveness, your friendship, your trust again” said Tara, trying to offer an explanation. Sue drank from her wine and agreed with Tara.

“Myles had changed. I don’t excuse his behavior towards you but, he is trying hard to open up more” said Sue. Lucy was speechless. She knew her friends were right: Myles was trying to amend himself. If all those bouquets, the gift, the poems were from him, his desire was to show her his transformation.
Lucy sighed and opened the envelope in a finger. The same ivory card sled and Lucy read softly:


If I could ever say it right
And reach your hostage heart
Despite the doubts you harbor
Then you might
Come to believe in me.

The life I lead is not the kind
That gives a woman peace of mind
I only hope someday you’ll find
That you can believe in me.

Those other loves that
Came before
Mean nothing to me anymore
But you can never be quite sure
And will not believe in me.

Too many hearts have been broken
Failing to trust what they feel
But trust isn’t something
That’s spoken
And love’s never wrong
When it’s real.

If I could only do one thing
Then I would try to write and sing
A song that ends your questioning
And makes you believe in me.

My dearest, I pray that one day, you will trust me. I hope that one day, you heart will believe in me.
Cupid

Beautiful!!

Myles could be so romantic!!

Tere

Beautiful poem !!!!

Oh, Josy, that was absolutely beautiful!!!

Joy

Beautiful poem, and I loved this analogy because her heart really had been held hostage by the feelings of betrayal and anger that she didn't deal with for so long! Wonderful job!!

Janet just quoted my favorite line of the poem, as well. Josy, this is such a moving story. Moving beyond the pain and hurt is so difficult and you portray the baby steps towards it so well.

My prayers will be with you and your family during your time of loss.

That was wonderful. I loved the poem. Perfect!

Jill

Definitely a romantic lead into Valentine's Day! She has to feel special with her Cupid taking so much trouble over his wooing of her.

kav

I’m so sorry about the loss in your husband’s family. I’ll be keeping all of you in my prayers.

I have thoroughly enjoyed playing catch up with this fantastic story, Josy. I'm sorry I got so far behind. It has been a joy to read about Lucy finally having romance in her life. And what a romance it has been so far!
Here are my comments as I read:
P1-10 – Glad that Myles recognized that shadow of unhappiness in Lucy’s eyes for what is was…unhappiness that she did not have a beau to shower her with romance on Valentine’s Day…and his longing to remedy that.
P2-18 – That was so sweet of Sue and Tara to give up an evening with Jack and Bobby to be with Lucy, sensing her unhappy mood through the brave front Lucy put on. And the fact that Jack and Bobby went along….just makes me love them more and more!
P2-20 – So Myles solidified his plan on Saturday and now has reviewed it. Tomorrow sounds like the point of no return…
P2-23 – Oh, what a beautiful poem. And this should have Lucy soaring.....she is going to go out of her mind with curiosity! I bet she won’t be able to stop grinning from ear-to-ear all day!
P2-29 – The meaning of the bouquet was touching and indeed does give Lucy hope, just like the poem said. And she suspects Myles…does that mean she would really like it to be him? Then Myles…Lucy’s smile warms his heart. Oh, this is a going to be a great love story, Josy!
P3-37 – Me thinks she secretly wants it to be Myles but doesn’t want to admit that, even to her subconscious, for fear of being hurt again; but, it slips in there anyway.
P4-46 – I have to agree with Jill about Paris in the Rain…
To be continued....

Lynn

P4-54 – A beautiful window into Myles’ heart. His emotions are so raw here…. I actually had a physical ache in my heart when I read this.


P4-59 – Lucy really struggled here, but she came up with the right questions…. Just keep up what you’re doing Myles and Lucy you ponder those questions until you have the answers.


P5-68 – I knew it…she does suspect it is Myles. I’m glad she confided in Sue and Tara. Close friends are always so grounding. And the poem was hauntingly beautiful…the perfect words for Myles to give Lucy….the perfect way to ask for forgiveness. I can’t wait until tomorrow. This story is fabulous, Josy!
Lynn

Ladies...thanks for your patience and your kind words
There is a snippet...
Josy
~~~~~~~~~~~

An honest answer is the sign of true friendship.
~ ~ Proverbs 24:26 ~ ~


Later that night
Lucy and Sue’s apartment

For a rare occasion, Levi was sleeping on the sofa. His square head was snuggled on his mistress’s laps and a light snoring stirred a smile on Lucy’s lips. On a small table, the bouquet shone of all its white beauty. They planned watching a movie but words took over. With sensibility, Sue was able to open Lucy’s heart. Snuggling in PJ, eating salsa and chips, Tara and Sue listened attentively to Lucy’s hesitation.

“Will you keep your heart prisoner by fear to be hurt again?”, asked gently Tara. Lucy didn’t know what to reply. She kept silence and munched on the chips.

“Lucy, I’ll tell you something” started Tara with hesitation. She moved and stretched her legs. The same bunny slippers enveloped her tiny feet and her Winnie the Pooh PJ made her look even younger. Sue and Lucy gazed at Tara, waiting patiently for her to pursue.

“Maybe, you don’t know it but when Bobby declared himself, I refused to believe him. I…” she stopped and shook her head. “I was scared, afraid to be hurt again” she tried to explain as a flow of memories swirled in her head.

“What do you mean?” frowned Lucy, wondering about the “again”. Once more, she stirred from her position and crossed her legs.

“I don’t know if you remembered but, Bobby and I went to a concert together…right before Darcy left for LA” explained the soberly the petite woman. Both her friends nodded and Tara continued.

“That night was magical and fun. I laughed, he made me laughed, he was awesome and his mood was different” she said and placed her chin in the palm of her hand.

“That night, he kissed me”, she finally articulated. Both Lucy and Sue’s eyes widened under the surprise and light giggle escaped Tara’s lips.

“And you're telling us that only tonight?”, exclaimed an amused Lucy. “Why?”, asked then Lucy, seriously.

“The day after, we had a conversation about that “event” and he told me words that simply crushed my heart…” she said and stopped. She licked her lips and took a sip of her ice tea.

In details, Tara revealed all her emotions, all the words uttered, all the thoughts. After that conversation, she kept her heart hostage. Even she could not shake the love she had for the Aussie; she refused to believe in it. On New Year’s Eve, his words of love, of care, of apologies scared her. She denied them. And then…

“I found the courage to immerse my eyes in his. His green eyes showed he was declaring the truth. I bawled and kissed him” said Tara with a luminous smile.

She leaned over the sofa arm and laid her hand on Lucy’s knee.

“Bobby never intended to hurt me. He never fully realized how his words crushed my heart and how I built a wall around it for protection. However, that wall kept my heart, my emotions captive”, she said softly.

“Lucy, you cannot keep your heart, your soul caged because you afraid but mostly, afraid to forgive” said Sue with her caring voice.

The words were spoken with tenderness still, it hurt a bit. It hurt because Lucy knew it was the truth. A heavy sigh flied from her lips. Snuggling deeper into the couch, she squeezed a cushion against her chest.

She had to forgive Myles. She had to let go of the past and allow the present to flourish. Even if the flowers were not from him, which she now doubted, if she desired to let love settled a place in her heat, she had to forgive: him and herself too. Lost deep in her thoughts, she didn’t say a word. Her friends respected her silence. Slowly, Lucy’s fingers reached for the last poem.

If I could ever say it right
And reach your hostage heart
Despite the doubts you harbor
Then you might
Come to believe in me

She felt a body cuddling at her side and she turned her eyes. Levi, tongue out, laid his head on her lap and looked lengthily at her. She caressed his furry head and sighed. She lifted up her gaze and looked at her friends.

Coming back into the living room, they placed a bowl of popcorn and others sweets on the coffee table. Grinning lightly, Lucy reached for the remote control.

“So are we ready for the next chapter of Lords of the Ring?” asked Lucy with a laugh in her voice. She had the impression that a weight had been lifted from her shoulders, from her heart.

Tomorrow, it will be Valentine Day and it was not anymore a dreadful day but a sweet reminder that love was still possible.

Sorry for you husband's family loss!

Very well!

Yes Lucy forgive!

Tere

This post was a beautiful window into, not only the heart and soul of Lucy, but into the ongoing development of friendship and love between these three women. That makes me cry with joy almost as much as Lucy's revelation.
Tara withholding the hurt she felt after Bobby's kiss and how she held her heart hostage were the perfect words for Lucy. And now she can move on...and won't she be marvelously surprised when she finds out it IS Myles tomorrow! Oh, Josy, please come back and give us tomorrow today!
Lynn

I'm glad Lucy has decided to put the past behind her and turn the page. Looking forward to see what's in stock for her.

My thoughts are with you and your family, Josy.

These three have indeed become very good, close friends!! Tara told her story at just the right time to help Lucy with her decision to forgive and forget!! I can't wait until tomorrow!!!

Joy

Tara was the perfect person to talk to Lucy. Great work!

I love this line! It's so hopeful and I'm getting excited for Lucy!

kav

That last line left us with a nice, hopeful tone. Glad Tara opened up, which encouraged Lucy to talk it through. Nothing like special girlfriends who can walk with you through the troubled times in life!

On this very cold and shivering night
Ladies, enjoy
Josy
~~~~~~~~~~~

At the shrine of friendship
Never say die,
Let the wine of friendship never run dry."
~ ~ Les Misérables ~ ~

Valentine Day
The bullpen

Lucy dropped her bag on her desk and walked to the coffee machine. Her eyes were barely opened. The room was empty except for her and she prepared the first pot of coffee of the day. The evening finished late and when her head finally touched the pillow, it was way past midnight.

When she woke up this morning, a wide smile spread on her lips and she couldn’t get rid of it. Joy and peace filled her heart and she felt her soul light as a feather. Sighing of contentment, she walked back to her desk.

At that moment, her eyes caught a glimpse of a rose laid on her keyboard and a creamy envelope attached to the stem. Her throat constricted and her heartbeat quickened. Her feet were glued to the floor. Starring at the rose, she didn’t move.

At that moment, Jack came into the bullpen. In his hand, a small bouquet of full bloom of red roses. At the sight of an immobile Lucy, he frowned and followed her regard. He detected the red rose resting on her keyboard. His chocolaty eyes became darker and walked to Lucy. In secret, he was suspicious about that Cupid. All the secrecy around those presents and poems made him uneasy. He suspected Myles but even with tactful and discreet questions, the Bostonian refused to tell if he was involved or not.

Approaching the rotor, he squeezed lightly her shoulder and she turned her head slowly in his direction. Her iris had widened under the surprise. Her smile had disappeared and questions floated in her dark eyes. She met some serious chocolate eyes.

“I…”, she started but was interrupted in the same time by Jack.

“Are…” he said at the same time. Both smiling, she shook her head and finally walked to her desk. With her slender fingers, she captured delicately the flower.

“Lucy?”, said Jack softly as he approached her. He laid the bouquet on Sue’s desk.

“Mmmmhhh”, she replied, as she turned her head.

“Do you know you sent you all these flowers?” he asked bluntly. He observed her dark eyes sparkled and a beautiful smile blossoming on her lips.

“Do you know something I don’t know?”, she teased, playing carefully with the flower. He shrugged but he couldn’t shudder away that worry.

“Luce, do you have the impression you have been followed lately?”, he asked brusquely. His question astonished the young woman and she stared at the team leader. She placed gracefully the rose and walked to the coffee machine. She poured some Java beverage into two cups and gave one to Jack.

“Do you insinuate it could be a complete stranger, a crank?” she croaked as she frowned. His chocolate eyes observed carefully her features, her eyes as doubt and disbelief battled on her visage. She leaned against Tara’s desk and took a sip of her coffee. She shook slowly her head.

“Jack, I…no…”, she hesitated. She didn’t want to explain all the reason but her instinct was telling her that she was no in danger. The poem, the words, the flowers were too intimate to be from a stranger. Breathing deeply, she tried to put some order in her thoughts.

“The poem revealed too much of my heart. I am certain that all are from someone I know” she said with a soft but firm tone. Jack didn’t pursue but still, his heart wouldn’t rest. He decided to maybe discuss it later with Sue.

“If you say so…” he trailed off and walked to his desk. Lucy smirked and knew Jack was not convinced. She was not upset about the questions. She knew Jack: protective, caring and he acted like a big brother towards her. She appreciated that sign of affection but she hoped she could ease that sentiment of worry she read in his eyes.

At that instant, the rest of the team entered one by one, greeting, laughing and thanking Lucy for the pot of fresh coffee. Sue’s cheeks took the same shade as her gift that was waiting for her.

Tara entered the bullpen, a fluffy teddy bear in her arm. Her cheeks were flushed and her hair tousled. Her smile was dreamy and her eyes sparkled of millions of stars.

“It seems the day had started well for you two” teased affectionately Lucy, grinning ear-to-ear. She observed Myles rolling his eyes to the sky but also, believed she had seen the shadow of an amused smile.

“You too” said a perky Tara, pointing her red rose. Lucy giggled and blushed slightly. Everyone gathered around her as she took the envelope in her hand. It was wider and longer than the others and heavier too.

At the moment, she sled a finger on the envelope, she caught Bobby’s gaze. His green eyes were darker. Lucy sighed and rolled her eyes.

“Oh no, not you too Bobby!” exclaimed a slightly upset Lucy. “You two have spoke together” said Lucy, traveled her finger from Jack to Bobby.

“What?” interjected Tara, her eyebrow lifted. Lucy grabbed the rose and turned it between her fingers, without touching the thorns.

“They think that all these flowers and gifts are from a wacko!” explained Lucy, half smiling, half upset.

“They may have a point” said calmly a baritone voice. Frowning, she darted a dark stare to the Bostonian.

“Lucy, you know, your routine is not difficult to discover” he stated, composed. “You are at the office around 7:30, 7:45, you leave the office around 4pm, you love that deli shop on M Street for lunch, you go to your Grams every Monday and Friday except for this week because she is in Florida with some friends and I could go on…” he enumerated calmly to a dumbfounded Lucy.

Doubt clouded her eyes as she looked at Myles. Serious, he didn’t lower his gaze as she stared at him.

Sighing loudly, she sought for some help from her friends. Sue sled her hand on Jack’s shoulder and he turned his attention to her.

“Do you really think…” she trailed as she plunged her eyes in his chocolaty gaze. He shrugged.

“I don’t know…I discussed it earlier with Luce and she had a point” he said. Lucy nodded furiously.

“The poems are too personal. “Cupid” knows too much of me. He, I presume, he is a “he”, she smirked, “Even if he knew my routine, he couldn’t discern the anguish and questions of my heart, unless I spoke to him” she stated quietly. She was certain…Cupid was not a wacko!

At these words, she opened the envelope and the same ivory card fell on the desk following by another envelope. She grabbed the card with trembling fingers and she lifted her gaze where she met some ocean blue eyes: soft but she couldn’t read more than that. She turned her attention to the card.

Is it too late to touch you, Dear?
We this moment knew --
Love Marine and Love terrene --
Love celestial too –

My dear Lucy, will do me the honor to be my Valentine?

Cupid

Again, she lifted her gaze and met his unruffled blue eyes. She couldn’t read him. She doubted. Munching on her lower lips, she hesitated.

She opened the other envelope. She pulled a nicely silky red wrap and attached on it, a small golden piece of paper. She read softly.

I found her wandering in the wood
This little child, I found her trembling in the shadows
And I am here to help Cosette
And I will settle any debt you may think proper
I will pay what I must pay
To take Cosette away

Gasping and with trembling fingers, she tore the paper and a ticket for “Les Miserables” presentation at the National Theater fell on the rose. With the ticket, a miniature creamy card was joined.

My dear, if you accept my gift, meet me at 6:00 p.m. at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden ice-skating rink. I am inviting you to share delight and laughs at Le Paradou and I promise you an unforgettable evening.

Cupid

Tears misted her eyes and her heart tumbled loudly in her chest. Bobby whistled.

“Le Paradou!” exclaimed the Aussie. “Well, I think you Cupid had planned long time in advance. That French restaurant is booked solid since a long time for tonight” stated the Aussie, with a tip of envy.

“Les Miserables! Oh Lucy, I am so happy for you” said Sue with delight. Her hazel eyes shone of millions of stars. She knew her roommate longed to see that presentation. However, the tickets disappeared so quick that Lucy accepted the fact she couldn’t go and then…

Impressed by the gift, Jack still couldn’t shake off that uneasy feeling. Suddenly, he turned to Myles.

“Do you have any plans tonight Myles?”, he asked bluntly to blonde agent. Surprised by the question, the Bostonian raised an eyebrow. He tilted his head as Lucy gasped.

“Jack!” she interjected. “That big brother attitude just…arrrgghhh!”, she thought, lightly upset. Nonetheless, she observed Myles’s reaction. He stretched his arm and laid his hand on the phone.

“Yes, I had plans” he said simply.

“With who?” asked a curious Bobby.

“Usually, Koala Boy, I would reply, none of your business but if you really want to know, with my sister. Thursday night is our night” he explained slowly.

“Can you cancel?” asked Jack. He received a light elbow touch in his ribs. “I don’t like the idea that Lucy will go meet an unknown Cupid who we don’t know anything about him!” stated Jack, quietly.

“I have to agree” stated a soft and quiet voice. D entered the bullpen with some files in his hand.

Myles nodded and lifted the telephone.

“I cannot have a bodyguard glued to me. Myles will scare the heck out of Cupid” uttered now a real displeased Lucy.

Myles placed his hand on the phone.

“Luce, I won’t be with you. I’ll watch you. If Cupid is someone you know, we will agree of a sign and I’ll go joined my sister for a late drink” he stated as he dialed Anne’s number.

“Thanks Myles” said Jack and D. Lucy sighed loudly and turned her back.

Myles spoke softly to his sister, explaining the situation and as he was hanging up, an amused smile floated on his lips. It didn’t escape Sue’s twinkling eyes.

I don't believe Myles, he has plans, of course he has, but with Lucy! (well hope so )

If not, who is this 'Cupid'???

Tere

Aw, that was perfect, Josy. I loved brotherly Jack. And now Myles will have an excuse to be there....

Lynn

Oh, this is being deliciously well-played! I love Jack's big brother protectiveness and Bobby backing him up. Myles is consummate in his role. Les Miserables is my second favorite (behind Phantom) and is absolutely awesome to see live. Lucy's a lucky girl!!!

Very well orchestrated.

I love the notes.

I think Myles is just playing along, but I'm also wondering if Bobby and Jack are in on it.

kav

Ladies, thanks for your warm comments. I appreaciated them!
Josy
~~~~~~~~~

Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light
~ ~ Helen Keller ~ ~

There is only one happiness in life,
to love and be loved.
~ ~ George Sand ~ ~



Valentine Day
Sue and Lucy’s apartment

Clothing flew by. Lying on the floor, the golden retriever followed the course of the dresses, the skirts, the pants, the blouses from Lucy’s closet to her bed. Only his brown eyes moved. He didn’t dare to move, sensing his mistress’s friend impatience. He heard Lucy mumbling under her breath and searching deeper into her closet. Footsteps came closer and he observed his mistress entering silently Lucy’s room. Levi lifted his head and welcomed her with a doggy smile. Her long hair was enrolled into a fluffy towel and her slender body was wrapped in a soft bathrobe.

“GET LUCY” she signed and Levi understood. He trotted and lightly, he placed his paw on Lucy’s tight. Jolted by the touch, she swiveled but the sudden move made her tumbled on her back. At that moment, pile of clothing that she was trying to keep at bay in her closet fell and covered a groaning Lucy. Levi backed up quickly and hid his eyes with his paw.

Laughing, Sue approached her friend and dug her up from all the clothes covering her. Her laugh brought a pitiful smile of Lucy’s lips.

“I have nothing to wear”, she moaned and she laid on her back.

“Nothing to wear, you…Lucy!” exclaimed a perky voice. Tara with rolls in her hair made her entry in Lucy’s bedroom. The coffee-color woman turned her head and met twinkling eyes. Sighing, she stood on her feet and looked, in dismay, at all her clothes. She felt two hands behind her back, pushing her out of the bedroom.

“Go take your shower!” ordered Tara “and let Sue and myself decided a few choices for you” she said. Resigned, she nodded and closed the door of the bathroom behind her. She could hear giggles.

The hot jet and the vapor calmed her senses. In her head, thoughts and emotions battled a non-sense war. Myles’s reaction brought doubt in her heart and deception in her soul.

“Cupid wasn’t him” she thought sadly, confused. He had plans with Anne. She heard him canceling them. That meant that he was not Cupid. Against her own will, tears stung her eyes and worry wrapped her heart.

“Then, who is he?” she whispered to the water. Her heart couldn’t reply.

When she got out of the shower, Tara was finishing her makeup and Sue was doing her hair. Since the three girls had all dates, they decided to prepare themselves as the same place, in order, to help each order. Lucy was glad because she couldn’t stay alone.

When she entered her room, different dresses were waiting for her. All the other clothing had been shoveled back in her closet. Then, her eyes caught a glimpse a black dress that she forgot the very first existence.

Gasping lightly, she reached slowly for the silky material. She wore that dress only once. The keyhole halter sateen dress shone of all its beauty under the dimmed light of her bedside lamp.

“I’ve never seen that dress before” said softly Sue who watched her friend’s reaction.

“I..It been…” she stammered. Words vanished from her head. She breathed deeply.

“I wore that dress at only one occasion: an auction organized by a close friend of my mother. Myles accompanied me” she explained simply. After his betrayal, she threw the dress away, in the deepest corner of her closet and forgot about it. However, tonight, that dress seemed perfect.

Grinning as tears clung to her lashes, she chuckled. Between her fingers, the material was soft, light and fresh. Her only disappointment was that Myles would not see her in that dress. She remembered perfectly his reaction back then: his blue eyes reflected his amazement and how lovely she looked in that outfit. At least, he will see her from a distance.

Suddenly, she heard a light cry.

“Girls, we better hurry or we will be late!” urged Tara. Lucy signed to Sue Tara’s exclamation and a waltz of makeup, dresses, brushes, jewelry and perfume danced around until a knock on the door brought stillness and silence in the apartment.

Lucy peeked at her silver watch: 5:40. She already called a cab and she knew that Myles will wait for her at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden ice-skating rink. He told her that he will survey the area…just in case. She didn’t believe that Cupid could harm her.

Lucy opened the door and faced two adorable men: one taller than the other, one darker than the other, both wearing black suits and in their hands, roses.
“Wow guys!” exclaimed the young woman as she let them entered the apartment. She didn’t wait for their reaction as she grabbed her coat and left silently the apartment.

She thought that her friends would not observe her absence but she was wrong.

“Lucy!” said Bobby as he peeked his head out of the door.

“Call us if you have any problem” he said seriously. She nodded and walked outside where a cab was waiting for her. Wrapped warmly in her wool coat, she looked at the city in love as butterflies danced with eagerness in her stomach.

As the taxi drove by, she detected Myles’s car parked near by. Wrapped in his beige coat, he saw her but didn’t acknowledge her. The taxi driver dropped her off and she walked slowly to the rink. Children and young parents were skating slowing on the ice. Lucy was watching them, sensitive of all the sounds surrounding her: the icy wind blowing gently on her nose, the kids’ laughs, a silver-bell giggle, screeching noise of footsteps in the snow, gliding sound of the skate on the ice, the echo of heart tumbling in her chest.

Breathing deeply, the chilly air pinched her throat. She crossed her fingers and rocked gently on her feet. Eagerness and excitement filled her heart. Then, she felt a presence behind her back.

She remained still. She desired to turn but she couldn’t. Under her eyes, a pink rose appeared held by a gloved-hand. Gently, she captured the delicate flower between her fingers and brought the bloom to her nose. The light scent misted her eyes. Cupid didn’t say a word and waited patiently for her. She wondered of the signification of that flower.

Finding courage, she whirled and met blue-deep ocean eyes. Her heart missed a beat and her breath got stuck in her throat. He was there, standing, waiting for her.

Tears pooled her dark eyes and she lowered them where she met the rose. She didn’t know what to say. Words escaped her. She couldn’t believe it. He had plans…He cancelled them…He…

She felt warm fingers cupping her chin. He had removed his gloves and compelled her to look at him. He changed his usual beige coat for a more fitting black coat. His blue eyes were soft and patient.

“What the rose means?” she asked in a whisper. She couldn’t say more…

He didn’t let her gaze away. He didn’t finch nor look away. Mixed emotions waltzed, swirled and bounced in her heart. Tears glittered on her cheeks and the warm touch on his thumb drying them away brought shivers along her spine.

“Please believe me”, he finally said with a husky voice.

I'm still speechless and a puddle

Enjoy the evening Lucy!!

Tere

Oh, I just love scenes like that... she knows the man behind her is the man she loves - and that he loves her - and she's just hoping it's who she thinks he is. Just gives me shivers!

That was devine, Josy, from the angst over what to wear to Sue and Tara taking charge, relieving Lucy of the stress on what to wear. And the way Myles revealed himself to Lucy, I'm on

Lynn

I love Lucy chose that dress on purpose... Beautiful scene!

Josy, that was just.........!!! **sigh**

Joy

Ok, first, I have to apogolize. I had the best intention in the world to post yesterday but no matter how intensively I looked at my laptop, noting could come out from my brain. My muse decided to desert me!! So after, an hour of frustration, I went in bed at 8:15pm -

Now, my muse is back at the same time as my hubby left a dozen of red roses on our bed before leaving for work...what a nice surprise when I came back from work...especially since we decided we didn't want to celebrate Valentine Day

Enjoy
Josy
~~~~~~~~~


Love is patient and kind
Love is not jealous
It does not brag
And it is not proud
Love is not rude, is not selfish
And does not get upset with others
Love does not count up wrongs that have been done
Love is not happy with eveil
But it is happy with the truth
Love patiently accepts all things
It always trusts, always hopes
And alwayls remains strong
Love never ends
~ ~ 1 Corinthians 13: 4 to 8 ~ ~



Her tears touched him deeply. Bundled warmly under a wool coat and a long red scarf wrapping her slender neck, he could only see her dark eyes shining under the stars. When he brushed her skin under his fingers, the light touch tickled his soul. He saw her lips trembling and the question was asked softly.

“Please believe me” was his husky reply. It was the cry of his soul, his deepest desire. He needed her to believe him, to trust him again. He wished to tell her so much but words escaped him. He observed shivers quivered her body. Without a word, he placed a hand in the small of her back and they started walking in silence. Surprised by her acceptance of this affectionate touch, some worry left his heart.

He could observe other couples walking at the same slow pace as them. He perceived her regard on him. He sensed her hesitation and the tremors of her soul. He wished to allow her more time to calm the frenzy of her thoughts.

After a moment, she stopped walking and looked intensively at him. Her dark eyes were soft but determined. She didn’t remove her fingers from his hands. That little touch rejoiced his heart. She searched into his eyes: he didn’t flinch.

“I didn’t think that…I thought…”, she stammered and stopped. She breathed deeply, he waited.

“I thought you had plans with Anne” she finally said with a sad voice. A soft chuckle escaped his lips. She admired the gentleness of his eyes.

“I needed a pretext, just in case. Anne knew all along” he explained simply. She bit her tongue softly as a smile tried to blossom on her lips. Then, her eyes darkened and she plunged her gaze in his.

“Did you mean them?” she asked, holding her breath. He understood.

“None of these flowers, none of the words I wrote, none of the presents were a random act” he stated firmly. He saw tears misting her eyes.

“Lucy, I wanted to show you that hope and love were knocking at the door of your heart. I desired to tell you how sorry I was. I am sorry Lucy” he apologized and let the silence enveloping them.

The words were simple but truthful. Lucy did believe them. Those words ignited a fire of emotions: joy, relief, confusion…

She lowered her eyes and let them wandered on the ice rink. Dimmed lights enveloped the rink and an atmosphere of comfort and love wrapped them. She forgave him the other night. Was she ready to trust him again? He read her thoughts. With his fingers, he caressed her cheek, compelling her to look at him.

“Luce, I know my actions and words hurt you. I understand that you couldn’t trust me…yet” he said gently. She felt his emotions.

Breathing slowly and deeply, she let her gaze wandered on the scene unfolding on the front of her: couples walking at the same as them, holding hands, kids running, their skates hanging on their shoulders and then, the sweetest scene.

An elderly man, all wrinkled, who walked slower than anyone else, approached a blushed old lady. A red hat covered her snow-white hair and some tuft of hair danced with the wind. A long wool brown coat warmly wrapped her frail body. Lucy discerned some shivers running along her back. The man removed his dark scarf and slowly, carefully, enrolled her neck with the warmth piece of material. She smiled softly. He approached closer and then, with gentle movements, he took out a rose that was hidden in his coat inside pocket. The lady’s smile widened larger and her blush grew deeper. Lucy observed the man’s lips moving but couldn’t hear. The wind carried the words away. And then, the moonlight reflected on the elderly lady’s tears. With trembling fingers, her partner dried them away and sled his arm around her fragile shoulders. As they were alone in the park, they walked away, comforted by their reciprocal love. That picture brought a smile on Lucy’s lips. She felt a deep sigh rumbling in Myles’ chest. She lifted her gaze and on the corner of her eyes, she met his eyes.

His deep-blue sea eyes showed emotions that she never saw before: dreams and hope.

“Myles?”, she whispered. He lowered his head, his hand still in the small of her back.

“That elderly couple…Is it something you believe in? Do you accept as true that a man and woman could love each other for that long?” she asked, playing with her fingers.

He turned and placed his hands on her shoulders. He searched for her gaze and met it: a flame of hope flickered in them.

“Luce, it took me a while to believe in that. I used to think that love was only a feeling, something that comes and goes. It took me a while to realize that love is an emotion that needs to be work on. It needs tenderness, caring, patience but mostly, determination. Looked at that couple, they probably went through hard times, they probably disagreed, they probably went through sad times but still, love surrounds them like a halo. That man showed determination and courage” said Myles in one breath.

Lucy frowned. She stumbled on the word “courage”. Myles read her thoughts.

“A man has to be courageous to sacrifice his own self to love completely” he declared with a husky voice. His blue eyes were troubled as pain of the past darkened his soul. Lucy listened and the words sank gradually in her heart.
Tenderly, softly, he ran his fingers on her cheeks; he brushed them against her velvety lips and along her neck. The airy touch let a fire trail behind. Her heartbeat quickened as her cheeks flushed under the caress. She tilted her head and snuggled her nose into the palm of his hand. Tears stung her eyes and she closed her lids.

She never stopped loving him. That was the reason his betrayal had been so painful. She loved him deeply and still today…She couldn’t keep her tears at bay. They overflowed and fell on his hand.

Gently, he turned her head and waited until she opened her eyes. His eyes longed for her to talk.

“You hurt me Myles. You really did” she sobbed. Her heart cried, her soul screamed, her eyes mirrored all the pain she had.

“I am so sorry Lucy. Please forgive me” and he took her in his arms. His strong arms enveloped her quivering shoulders and he rocked her. Her head rested in the small on his shoulder and she found comfort. She felt his breath upon her hair, his words of comfort, of apology, of love sank in her heart.

Her sobs calmed down and she stayed in the refuge on his arms. Silence, again, wrapped them. She believed his words of regret. Now, she wanted to find if she could trust him.

She detached herself from him but let her fingers intertwined with his. His eyes questioned her. She finally asked the question that was burning her lips.

“Are you a courageous man, Myles?” she asked with tremors in her voice. The question caught him unaware. He desired to tell her that he loved her. However, he never thought it would be tonight. He thought she needed more time. He imagined that he had to show her, with time, that she could trust him.

Breathing deeply, he cupped her chin between his fingers.

“I love you Lucy. I want to be on your side no matter the circumstance. I want to cry with you, I want to laugh with you, I want to discover the world with you” he said huskily. Her eyes widened as the confession of his heart sank into her soul. She wished she could speak but she was mute. The shock on his declaration made her trembling.

“Lucy, I desired to redeem myself. I longed to illustrate you that I changed” he declared and the only thing she could do was nodding.

“I am not expecting a reply immediately Luce. Let’s walk to the restaurant. Let’s enjoy ourselves. Let’s discover our friendship. Be my Valentine tonight” said Myles with a caressing voice.

In response, Lucy tiptoed and brushed her lips against his cheek. The airy touch calmed the frenzy on his heart and deepened the blush on her visage.

She loved him but desired to wait before responding. Fingers interlaced, they strolled to Le Paradou where a warm and cozy atmosphere was waiting for them.

That was an absolutely beautiful scene, and this part so true and so touching. Wonderful job with this, Josy.

Your hubby is a romantic guy. A dozen roses - VERY nice!!!

Love that part!