Grace Like Rain

I thought I'd jump into the shower/rain fun. My title/song won't make sense until the end but I hope you enjoy the journey.



"Jack, this is beautiful." Sue relaxed against the SUV taking in the beauty of nature before her with a deep cleansing breath of fresh country air.

Smiling as he began to unload the vehicle, "I'm glad you approve, sweetheart."

"Jack, leave that for now. Let's investigate." Sue pleaded with her cutest irresistible look, knowing Jack couldn't resist it anymore than she could resist his dark chocolate orbs.

Hands up in surrender, Jack responded tongue in cheek, "your wish is my command...umm...that is as long as my wish is your command later," winking with his most charming grin.

"You are so bad, Jack," she gave her best shot at looking shocked with his relentless teasing. will I ever get used to him...i hope not...


Walking down the trail Jack knew would give Sue the best view, he quickly realized when they arrived. Sue's sudden stop gasping, "Jack!"

Wrapping his arms around her waist, quickly turning to take the fall, enjoying her softness and giggles as she landed on top of him. "Sue, did I just die and go to heaven?" he chuckled as he checked to be sure she was ok.

"You did that on purpose," Sue pulled away with mock annoyance.

"Meee? You're the one that stopped suddenly, leaving me crashing into you...and I think you did it on purpose... just to fall into my arms, knowing I would never let you fall to the ground," winking and smiling his most arrogant smile.

"You have quite the ego Agent Hudson. But I have to admit one thing is true."

"One thing. What's that?"

"You sure know how to pick the perfect place to escape," her eyes continuing to roam the vast open view that continued to take her breath away.

Finding Levi, she giggled, "Jack look, Levi seems to approve too. I think he is going to have a wonderful time here," noticing him watching Levi running free with a smile of pride that told her he knew he did good. he did do good...Jack Hudson you are an amazing man...

Oh, Anne, I can't tell you how happy I am you have entered the challenge!
And Jack and Sue are together...
and away together...
Wwhere are they? Are they married? Is this a honeymoon? Anniversary get-a-way? Oh, don't leave us hanging too long.

Lynn

Not sure where they are, but it looks beautiful and romantic!!!

This sounds so promising! I feel a good coming on.

Paula

This is starting out so sweetly! Can't wait to read more!

Anne, I am so pleased to see your entry and look forward to reading more.

Whee, I'm thrilled to see this here and what a promising start. It sounds idyllic and it looks like Sue and Jack are actually a couple and.... Yahoo! This is going to be a great read.

kav

Wherever they are, I'm glad we get to go there with them! Great start. They sound like they are having so much fun.

Woo hoo! Love that they're a couple and outdoors somewhere beautiful and Jack's flirting and Sue's reciprocating. Happy to wait and see how the title ties in, because methinks we'll have some nice fuzzies along the way!

Whoo-hoo! I'm so glad you've joined the challenge!

And this sounds like the most perfect romantic getaway for Jack and Sue. I mean, that is what it is, isn't it?

I checked in this morning and found this wonderful Anne story!! Thank you, Anne, for fuzzifying (is that even a word?) my otherwise hectic morning!!!

Joy

Yay Anne!!!!! So excited to read more!!!!!!!

Em

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone! I promise your questions will be answered in due time

I forgot to add, thought in italics, sign in bold.


Walking further down the path hand in hand, Jack and Sue stopped once again to take in the view. Surrounded by lush green trees, each telling it’s own story, in every hue, size and stature. Some standing proud and tall, others waving an inviting breeze, as if to welcome their new guests.

As luscious as the trees were, fortunately they did not block the view of the playful babbling brook that escaped from the beautiful body of water in the distance. Looking past the water was a scene to good to be true. A range of mountains protectively surrounding the background, leaving only the skyline behind it, giving a feel of being in your own private world.


Tears filling her eyes, “JACK THANK YOU FOR BRINGING ME HERE. I LOVE IT. If I didn’t already believe in God, I’d say this settles it. A big boom could never create such beauty and perfection.”

Jack laughed signing, I AGREE. Raising his hand to her cheek, “Sue, you and Levi stay here. I’ll be right back with our stuff. And Levi, you stay with Sue while I’m gone. You can go play when I return. OK buddy?”

Lifting a paw to Jack with a woof to confirm he knew he was officially on duty. “I’ll have a reward for you when I come back." Levi responded with a louder woof and pranced over to guard his mistress.

“Hey, I can help.” Sue tried to rebuke Jack.

“What, and miss out on all this beauty? I mean, you can look at me anytime. Enjoy.”

“In that case I think I will. Oh and Jack.”

“Yes?”

“See if you can find a tight hat for you to wear for the rest of the day. I wouldn’t want to see your head explode.”

FUNNY YOU



"So Levi, what do you think?" Laying his head on her knee, she could have sworn he was smiling at her.

Walking closer to the brook, Sue was mesmerized watching each level of water rushing down over the next layer of rocks and small boulders and down again to the next level.

Levi was edging closer to the water. Sue thought he was probably thirsty and told him to go ahead. Levi, remembering he was on duty, looked around spotting Jack coming back down the trail. Once again, appearing to have a smile on his face, he nodded at Jack and returned to the brook for some adventure.

“Hi Jack, let me help you.”

“Yea, I’d say that’s fair. I carried all this stuff from the SUV, you can carry it across the brook,” he grinned.

“Across the brook?”

“Sue, this side has a nice path, to get us here and as you can see, lots of trees and a narrow edge of land above the brook. But if you look across the brook, there are lots of nice patches of soft green grass on open land to lay out in the sun and relax. Look, over there you can even sit and dangle your feet in the brook. What do you think?”

“I’d say you have thought of almost everything,” Sue laughed.

“Oh, Levi! What do you have? Oh that poor fish.” Sue sighed.

Jack was bursting with laughter as he took in the site of Levi proudly standing on the bank of the brook, fish in mouth as if posing for a picture with his prize catch. Groaning, Jack signed to Sue, WHERE CAMERA LEVI PRICELESS

Sue was quick to snatch the camera from a bag dangling off Jack’s shoulder and snapped Levi just before he ran back to the water with his catch.

“Looks like Levi is in for a fun filled day,” she giggled.


“Almost everything?” Jack huffed.

“What?”

“You said I thought of almost everything. What did I miss?”

Catching the quizzical, yet mischievous gleam in his eye, Sue blurted out as well as signed for extra effect to show him what she thought of his plan, “A BOAT”.

Chuckling, once again thinking how cute she looked when she was steamed. “Sue, see those rocks and boulders, that’s our bridge,” Jack grinned.

“Jack, there is running water on those rocks. We’ll fall in.”

“No Sue. See I thought of everything. The weight of all our gear that you will be carrying will help you to not get knocked down so easily. I know you are a light weight, but the extra weight will help,” trying very hard to remain serious.

“Jack Hudson, if you think I’m going to fall for that….”

“Hey, you fell for me.”

With a noise resembling a cross between a groan of exasperation and a slight touch of humor, Sue complained, “I don’t want to fall in the brook.”

“What, this coming from a woman who loves to walk in the rain and get soaked. The wetter you get, the bigger your smile. And here I thought I knew you. OK, let’s pack up and go,” Jack teased.

“OK, OK, I love this place so I will compromise. I will cross the rocks without the gear. You can fall in brook with it,” smiling bright eyed at him.

This was a side to Sue that Jack adored. Sue always made him laugh and he loved to tease her. “Sue, this is not the Mississippi River we’re crossing. This is a brook. I can throw the gear across with ease and I’ll make sure you don’t fall in.”

“Now you’re really scaring me!” Sue let her mouth drop open in mock horror.




Later

Hi there Anne!

2 wonderful posts! can't wait for more!!

Tere

This is great. A teasing but fun time for Jack, Sue and Levi. Obvioulsy a spot for honeymooners, newleyweds or lovers.....

This just sounds so romantic... i just love nature like this... so beautiful.

Love their teasing banter.

Now, I don't think they are married, or even engaged...hmmm....maybe just declared love, out for a picnic in the hills of VA? I'm trying to picture exactly where this might be, Anne, since my sister lives about an hour out of DC and it doesn't look anything like this where she lives!

Now, the prospects of wetness....rain, of course, after all, the title does use the word Rain, and a babbling brook....

Do you think you could give us a little bit more today?

Lynn

This is wonderful! I'm thinking they've reached a milestone of some kind, and I'm sure all will be revealed soon!! Looking forward to the next post, and the next, and the next . . .!

I thought this, too.

Wonderful, loving, teasing banter!! And, I love how you portray Levi - I can see him standing there showing them the fish he has caught!!!

Joy

Honeymooners, newlyweds or lovers...

They are so cute!

Em

Two cute posts Anne!
I love the banter and all the love surrounding them...
Josy

Thanks again for your replies, I love them.

This is just a snippet for now. I'll try to get another one on today.


“See, I told you it would land safely on the other side. When are you going to learn to trust me?” Jack huffed.

“Maybe when I get across safely and all the gear you just tossed is still in one piece. Nothing broken.” Sue teased with a smile, knowing deep in her heart there is no one she would trust her life with more than Jack, other than God of course.

“OK, you go before me and I will be right behind you, my arms around your waist.”

“But Jack, if you fall in, you’ll take me with you.”

“Hey, remember my sniper training. Trust me, I won’t fall in or let you fall either, I promise. You ready?”

“OK”

Holding her breath trying not to shake, Sue carefully moved across the slippery rocks. It wasn’t as bad as she thought. That is, until she started to get comfortable enough to sense the breathy heat on her neck, along with the possessive hold around her waist. A shiver ran through her.

Jack smiled, not at all surprised at Sue’s new found skills. She was always amazing in everything she did. She felt so good, smelled so good. Letting out a slow moan of delight across the back of her neck, tightening his hold on her waist , he suddenly felt intoxicated.

Somewhere between the shiver and the intoxication, almost at their destination, they lost control. Not knowing how deep the water was, or was not, Jack once again quickly turned his body to take the brunt of the fall, allowing Sue a softer landing on top of him.

In spite of the pain, Jack kept a strong hold on Sue.

“We’ve got to stop meeting like this Jack.”

“Sue, I am so sorry. I promised.”


Not about to miss out on the fun, Levi was quick to join Jack and Sue, playfully romping in the water.

“You were right Jack. I love the rain, I love the water, I love adventure, and if I was going to fall in a brook, I’m glad it was with you.”

Smiling up at Sue, relieved she wasn’t angry, he began to take in the loveliness before him. Her sincere yet laughing eyes, her smile and the sound of her giggles. The visible curves clinging to her light shirt and shorts were making him dizzy. Reaching for her face, he pulled her close for a kiss, leaving Sue wanting more. As the kiss ended they gazed into each other’s eyes, deep into their souls. Jack tenderly traced her features, as if to memorize them. With pleasure, Sue did the same, until she realized……

OK, Anne. I'm holding you to the first quote, because the second one left me BATTY!! The first thought that came into my mind wasn't fuzzy, it was "Oh Come ON?!" as I slapped myself on the forehead in anguish.

More story, please?? Hmmm??

Anne, you have evidently decided to tease us like everyone else has!! I was lulled into fuzziness with that very romantic scene when all of a sudden - what did Sue realize???

Joy

I knew they'd fall in!

Em

Me too, Em! I just knew it!

But, what did Sue realize?

Go on hit us with it! Your going to tell us that one of the three is suffering from a terrible illness ir is undergoing something major!!!!! Orrrrr it could be something really, really good, like she's realised it's already been ten years since they married, or maybe Sue needs to tell Jack she's pregnant!!!!!

And here I thought you were going to treat us to a non-angsty challenge story....

What did Sue realize ???????

Lynn

I just typed the next post and had about two sentences to go when the dreaded, 'we have to shut down' notice came on which of course means it ate my post. GRRRRRR

OK, sorry for the rant and lack of update on story. I'm leaving to go to a Natalie Grant concert so if I get home in time, I will post it later tonight.

Maybe this is a reminder to get this story done early so I don't run into the puter problems I had with the last challenge I did. My puter broke down right at the deadline and I missed it.

And here I had just realised I had missed your other post, and I was so happy to see you post again to find out what Sue had realised

What Sue did realize??? Huh??
Knew she would fall these two ...cute...very cute

Have a wonderful time at the concert Anne
Josy

Enjoy the concert and try to forget the computer woes, but please post ASAP. I want to know what Sue realized.

This is a wonderful story, Anne!

Kim

That would make falling into the water truly worth it! It's fun to see Jack and Sue out of their normal element.

I got home a bit later than I expected but the outdoor concert was a blast.

Thanks for hanging in there. Sorry for making you wait and that this is just a snippet since it's so late. More tomorrow, umm, I guess that would be later today.


“Jack, this water is not very deep. I can feel rocks at the bottom. I landed on top of you” she gasped in horror as she moved behind him to see if there was any damage. “You’re bleeding Jack, come on, let’s get you out of the water so I can check you over.”

“I’m fine Sue. But you can check me over any time you want,” he winked leading her to shore.

Grabbing a blanket, they huddled together to dry off some. The sun shining brightly, Sue took the blanket, laying it out on the lush green grass. “Come Jack, let me look at your back.” Her breath catching as she watched the man she loved, shirt clinging to his muscular body as he lowered himself to her, and she reached over to remove his wet damaged shirt.

Grinning, he teased her, “see sweetheart, I knew you were just after my body.”

“Jack, be serious. You’re bleeding. I have to check it.”

“Whatever you say dear.” Jack chuckled, allowing his shirt to be removed, noticing more blood than he expected.

“Oh Jack, this looks ugly.”

“Huh, you never told me that before,” he pouted. “I’m fine. I’m sure it’s just some bruises and a cut you can clean and bandage with our first aide kit. OK.”

“I don’t know Jack, I think you might need stitches.”

“Sue, I’m not giving up our time together for a little cut. There are some butterfly bandages you can use and having you as my nurse, what more could I ask for?” he smiled warmly to ease her worry.


“This sunshine is heavenly. I could stay here forever. How does it feel on your back?” Sue’s eyes were roaming over his muscular arms and back, tapering down to a slender waist and cute… hmm, is he asleep…those bruises are nasty…I better get more bandages, those seem to be bleeding thru.

ACK! You hurt Jack! How dare you?!

Come back here right this minute, missy!

Jack's just shrugging off his injuries and being a typical man, all macho and Sue, tending to him is heavenly, but I'm getting worried that the blood seems to be oozing from the bandages. Now I'm a frist aider at work, but I think I need to see the wound to check how bad it is....obviously for Jack's sake!!!

Anne! Some writers on this board seem to be addicted to cliff hanging posts and I'm beginning to think you've become addicted to teasing posts! I love this story!

kav

Note to self: When attempting a brook-crossing with Jack, take bigger bandages . . .

Euh..Jack...hurt...not good to know
I love your story Anne ;0)
Josy

I love your comments, they put a smile on my face.

Some of you will learn if you guessed right or wrong as to the purpose of their trip in this post. I'm hoping to add another post later but after what happened yesterday, I won't make promises.


“Jack?”

“Hi sweetheart. Come here.” Reaching his arms out to Sue, he apologized again with a kiss. “I’m so sorry Sue. How long have I been sleeping?”

“Long enough for me to worry. Are you sure you’re ok? I’d rather have you get checked out and we can come back here another time,” she worried her bottom lip as she changed his bandages.

“NO Sue, I’m fine. You’re a great nurse. Let’s eat, ME HUNGRY YOU HUNGRY ”

“You're hungry, that's great Jack. Now I’m not as worried,” smiling, off to prepare dinner for them.

Jack began to set up camp, putting up their cozy little tent.

“Honey rest, I can do that after dinner.”

"SWEETHEART, IF YOU THINK I PLAN ON RESTING ON OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY, THINK AGAIN" sending her a seductive grin, causing butterfly's to stir and her heartbeat racing. even after a year of marriage, that grin reduces me to mush...and he knows it....and I'm glad he does... she giggled.



“That was delicious Sue. Not only was I blessed with a beautiful, sexy, intelligent, caring and sensitive wife, but she is the best cook, even in the wilderness.” Jack reached up, pulling her to him for a sweet kiss of gratitude. “Thanks for being my nurse today too sweetheart. I’m sorry I worried you. I love you more than ever.”

“Just promise not to do it again,” Sue rolled her eyes heavenward thinking how many times she had used that warning.. “I’m glad you enjoyed dinner. Now, can we walk down to the brook and dangle our feet in the water?”

“Oh, so you didn’t get wet enough today huh?” Jack laughed as he grabbed a lantern, not sure how long they would be. better grrab a towel too... “Come on Levi, see if you can catch us some fish for breakfast.”

“Eeew, Jack, don’t tell him that.”

Suddenly stopping, a thought crossed his mind, reaching for her arm, “Sue, have you ever been fishing?”

“No, I don’t like the worms. My brothers used to throw them at me and they were gross. They thought they were being funny. Then they couldn’t understand why I didn’t want to go fishing with them,” she smiled at the childhood memories.

“Well today is your lucky day. I promise not to throw worms at you. As a matter of fact, I don’t use worms for bait. I have fishing gear for both of us, so if I put the bait on and take the fish off for you, wanna try?” Jack asked in that cute excited, yet sexy way that reminded her of his invitation to see her first live basketball game with him. As much fun as they had at the game with the whole team, this would be just her and Jack.

“Sure honey. I’m in, as long as you do all the dirty work,” she smiled.

What a perfect setting for an anniversary! Wonderful, yummy, sweet, delectible post! Can't wait to read more!

I have to confess, I was hoping to learn that it was their anniversary.

I love fishing... it is so peaceful and relaxing... alone in a boat

Really, they chose the perfect spot to celbrate their anniversary..alone in the wilderness...
Josy

Their one year anniversary - I love it!! What a wonderful way to celebrate it!!!

Joy

Alone... on the bank of a nice quiet brook... just them and their fishing gear... yup... anyone feel like a swim?

Um....not so relaxing for the fish, Marlene! I love this story, Anne.

kav