I have never done this before so I am really nervous. But then what's the worst you can do to me, send some handsome FBI agents after me?

This is a Jack/Sue romance during an adventurous trip to NY for J/S/B/M/T/L. There is an FBI case going on as well as many other things. Oh and of course this is Christmas!

HOLIDAY HILLS


December 1


The sounds of giggles and hearty laughter could be heard echoing in the moon lit night. " I haven't been on a toboggan since I was a child," Sue cried out in laughter.

Tara and Lucy were giggling at the sight before them. Jack, Bobby and Myles were trying to untangle themselves from the mess they had gotten into. They went off course, missing the toboggan trail, sailing through the air over a surprisingly, well hid ski jump.

Fortunately the three men were in good shape and were not injured. The same could not be said for the now deceased toboggan. It's only use now might be a good bonfire.

Once Sue calmed down and caught her breath, she followed the direction Tara and Lucy were looking in. She could see their shoulders shaking from what appeared to be giggles. Curious, Sue joined them and began to laugh even harder at the site she saw.

Although the men were laughing quite hard themselves, this was different, this was war!! Jack looked over at Bobby and Bobby winked at Jack and Myles, then whispered, "let's get the Sheila's for that!"

The snowballs began to fly, being tossed with childlike abandonment. But of course the girls had the advantage, being on higher ground, and continued to pummel their favorite men with delight.

It was so refreshing to be able to espcape from the horrible case that had brought them up to this quaint little town, a couple of hours north of New York City. To be able to stay at a fairytale like place called Holiday Hills, with the greatest toboggan hills and cross country skiing, was just what they needed for a well deserved break.

The ice pond near the Inn, had not gone unnoticed by Sue, when they arrived. She promised herself she was not leaving, without treating herself to the joy and wonderment of feeling the freedom of flowing across the ice, gracefully letting herself go, as if there were not a care in the world.


Feedback please!!!

Awesome start! I can just picture them sprawled out on the ground

Please add more soon

I love this beginning! I love reading about what the characters do in their "down time" and how they interact. This story seems like it is going to be great, the hint of a tough case... can't wait to find out what has happened.
Bring on the chapters (or days)

awwwwwwwwwwwww loved it

Absolutely wonderful start...the word the comes to my mind is "gleeful fun." I like it. Thanks for venturing in the water, I think you'll find it to your liking.

Anne!!! I'm so thrilled to see you writing! What a great start! Loved the lightheartedness of the team, playing in the snow...I could just picture them! Certainly looking forward to tagging along for the ride...the next 24 days should prove to be interesting and fun! You're doing great!

Your posts are always so well-thought out and witty that I'm thrilled to see you posting a story of your own, Anne! Great start--can't wait for some more!!

Well done Anne. Its a big step venturing into the world of fanfiction. But once you've plucked up the courage to post it becomes very addictive!

Atleast youv'e been posting on the board, I sort of snuck in the back door, and ignored everyone until I felt confident enough to reply!

Sometimes I find writing unbelievably hard, other days not a problem at all. Well only another 23 chapters to go....

Thanks for the feedback. I can't thank you enough for the encouraging words, having never done this before. OK, ready for some fun of a different sort?


December 2


"Sue, I am so sorry!" Jack looked over at Sue sheepishly. "I know you expected your own room, or at least to room with the girls. They told us they had four rooms with two beds each. But with the cold weather, the pipes froze in one of the cottages. I'm just glad they have fireplaces in our rooms."

"Jack, I'm not mad. It's just a little embarrassing, with three rooms and two beds in each, it's automatically, Lucy and Tara get one, Bobby and Myles get one, and we get the other as if we are married again! I just didn't think we were undercover for this case," Sue sighed thinking, nor did I pack for it.

"Hey, am I that bad to sleep with? I mean, umm, room with? Oh, you know what I mean," Jack stuttered nervously! "Besides, would you expect Lucy and Bobby, or Tara and Myles to share a room? We have already broken the ice so to speak, so I thought we would be more comfortable. I guess I was wrong," Jack sulked.

Sue threw a pillow at Jack and laughed, "stop sulking and speaking of ice, I want to go skating before we have to go back to the murder scene."

"Oh, now you did it, you are toast!" Jack said as he leaped over to Sue's bed for an old fashion tickle torture. Sue was screeching and trying in vain to get away from her attacker, when the door was kicked in by Bobby, followed by Myles.

"Oh you two might as well tie the knot and be done with it mate, before you give us all a heart attack," Bobby said with a smirk. Myles rolled his eyes, but quietly smiled at Bobby's words, thinking just how right the Aussie was. What a strange thought, Bobby right? Will wonders never cease?

"Sorry Sue, the skating will have to wait until we get back. I just got a call, we have some witnesses to interview. But I'll make you a deal, when we get back, how about we share the pond?" Jack grinned at Sue. Sue signed OK and smiled.

Back at the barn, a few miles away, the girls they were meeting were visibly shaken. Rachel and Keri owned a horse together and boarded him at this barn. They were very close to the woman who was murdered.

In fact, Keri had dinner with Susan and her husband Sergei, in their home the night before the murder. Keri said she was frieghtened by Sergei's behavior towards Susan, but she wasn't sure why and never expected anything this horrible to happen.

Both Rachel and Keri were always uncomfortable when Sergei was around. They tried to be friendly to him, thinking it might be because he had told them he was only in the US for one year, and was from Russia. No matter how hard they tried to like him, they just didn't.




HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL (ooops, don't tell anybody, it's not really December 2nd. )

The plot thickens, room mates eh!

Can't wait to find out more :laughs:

great love the tickle torture.

Oh wow, amazing beginning!!! Keep up the wonderful writing!

I am so gald you deceided to try your hand at writing, I'm loving it! Can't wait for the next post

Anne, you've got me hooked. It's very difficult to believe this is your first fanfic. You write the characters so well. I like the playfullness between everyone for a change, not so dramatic. I cant wait to read more.

Awesome job! Please add more soon

Great start Anne. Can't wait for more.

Such a predicament - Sue and Jack forced to share a room. What a shame!

Thanks again for all the feedback. It really helps! Yup, it's the first time I've written anything and I didn't know the fun I was missing!


December 3


"I know Sue, I know I promised, but after the exhausting time we had trying to help those poor girls, you know we were not up for any skating last night by the time we got home," Jack said. "But I promise today."

"Jack, did you know Rachel has a little boy only four years old? She's not married but lives with her parents, who are helping her out. Her Mom is terrified that we might not have the right person, since we don't have enough evidence to convict yet. She is frightened someone else may be around to finish off any witnesses. That is pretty scary. She's worried for both Rachel and Keri, as well as her grandson William."

"Sue, the man smashed her head into the railing of the stairs! He crushed her skull. I don't believe it is anyone else but the man we have been trailing for the past three years. I just wish for Susan's sake, we got to him before he married and killed her. I'm sure this is the same man that killed his wife in Washington three years ago and almost two years ago, killed another wife in Michigan. All three wives owned and boarded horses, giving lessons. I'm telling you Sue, it's him!" Jack vented in frustration.

"OK, now let's hit the Inn for some hot breakfast and grab some skates!" Jack smiled at Sue trying to break the tension of the gruesome case.

Sue was enjoying her precious time, gracefully flowing across the ice. Letting her mind wander to the thoughts she was having when she woke early to see a handsome sleepy face across from her. She had to admit the sight made her tingle all over. As much as she tried to deny the power of her attraction to Jack, she was losing the battle. Sue was even feeling a bit guilty for making a scene about havnig to sleep, umm, room with Jack again.

"Whoa Sheila, your gonna take me out if your not watching where your skating," Bobby grinned. Sue blushed at being caught so deep in her daydream, but slapped Bobby's arm and said, "You just need to learn to skate Bobby!" Thankful for the Jack Frost chill, to hide her blushing red cheeks.

Tara and Lucy were lacing up while Jack instructed Myles on some techniques for a good hockey game. Well, as good as it could be with just Jack, Bobby, and Myles. Better than nothing. Hmmm, maybe they should recruit the girls for this hockey match, Jack thought with an evil grin.

After a good workout on the ice, it was time to get warmed up, before meeting some local authorities involved in the case.

As Jack worked on the fire in the cozy fireplace, Sue found herself having trouble focusing on anything but the man before her. His hair damp from skating, with the glow of the fire was having an effect on her she wasn't sure she was ready to deal with. She wa a little frightened by the intensity of her feelings, but she was also enjoying the deep warmth she felt for this man she cared so much for. And yes she had to admit, she was very much in love with him.

Jack turned and reached for her hand. "Sue, come and warm up, you must be freezing." Little did he know how much he had already warmed her up. As Jack took her hand, he felt her tremble and he so desperately wantd to take her in his arms and hold her. But what would she think? He didn't want to scare her.

Jack you wouldn't scare Sue one bit but you might give her a quiver in the knees.

Oooh, somehow I think she'd be just fine with it.

Awesome job!

Talk about a regular Romeo and Juliet type romance. They're keeping each other apart, when all they want to do is be together...cute...sorta funny

Great job on your first story, Anne!

JoM

Wow! Very sweet! I really enjoying this story so far! Keep it up! Can't wait for more!!

Another great post Anne, your doing a fantastic job. I cant wait for more.

You're all so sweet with your feedback. I'm understanding on the other side now just how good it is to get it! Thanks!

A quick sidenote for the character of William. He is a four year old boy that you have to picture talking very excited and very fast in case I don't bring that across as well as I wanted to. Hope you enjoy!


December 4


"Hey Bobby, Myles, good of you to join us!" Jack teased, knowing these two were probably feeling the effects of yesterdays hockey game. "Where's Tara and Lucy?" Sue asked.

"On their way and very hungry. They told us to order one of each thing on the menu." Myles quipped. Jack laughed and said, "there is no menu today. There's a huge buffet and you can have more than one of each." "Ooh, you just made my day mate," Bobby's eyes were searching as he rushed towards the buffet.

"Hey girls, did you get lost?" Sue smiled. "Yes" Lucy snarked. "We lost our electric and had no hair dryer." "The guys let us use their place, and I'm so glad you picked a table so close to this nice warm fireplace. I'm freezing." Tara added.

"So what's up for today?" Bobby asked Jack. "Some of the information from the local authorities does appear to throw suspicion on one of the worker's in the stalls. I still believe the husband killed his wife, more accurately, wives. However, they are both from Russia and the background check on the information from the locals points to some possible Russian Mafia business in New York City. This may have included the worker in the stall as well. Both girls, Rachel and Keri said they were very scared of him. As they put it. "He creeps us out!" "And the plot thickens." Myles stares at each of his friends.

"We are going to wait on some final information to come through from DC, and then tomorrow take a little trip into New York City to check out these Russian friends of ours. Once we have the location, we can go in as tourists and observe before acting on anything," Jack filled everyone in. "If, they're Russian Mafia, don't call them my friends Jack!" Lucy gave Jack her best sarcastic smirk.

"Funny girl Lucy, but I have good news for us too. That is, if you want to join us for this?" Jack decided to give Lucy a little of his own sarcasm. "Tomorrow also happens to be the Tree Lighting at Rockerfeller Center. I don't know about the rest of you, but I believe Sue and I will be enjoying the ice," Jack winked at Sue.

"Oh we will, will we?" Sue teased back. "Sounds like a plan mate," Bobby grinned at what he was seeing between his good friends. Lucy looked over at Tara and whispered, "after that little exchange between Sue and Jack, I wouldn't miss it for the world. I might even become friends with the Russian Mafia." Tara giggled at Lucy's change of heart. What romance does to Lucy, especially when it involves Sue and Jack.

I'll keep my cell phone on me, but I say let's not waste the day. Who's up for some cross country skiing?" Jack asked the gang.

"Oh my, I have to rest? I didn't realize how tiring this can get," Lucy groaned. "I'm ready for a break too" added Sue. "Me too, was quietly heard by Lucy from a distracted Tara. Lucy got Sue's attention.

"Hi, what's your names?" Tara asked gently. "I'm William and this is my cousin David. You are the FBI guys my Mommy was talking to, aren't you?" William asked excitedly.

"Is Rachel your Mommy's name William?" asked Sue. "Yea, and she's the best Mommy in the whole wide world!" The girls giggled at how cute this animated little blonde haired boy, with these huge blue/green eyes was.

William started to speak but had his head turned away from Sue. Sue asked him to look at her so she could read his lips and explained that she is deaf. "Wow, you are deaf! My cousin David and I are learning ASL at preschool! I don't know a lot of signs yet, but I know the alphabet and some signs. I never met a real deaf person before. You are really nice and pretty," William smiled shyly.

Sue smiled at the little boys candor. "Is that your dog?" William asked Sue. "Yes, he helps me to hear. He let's me know if someone is trying to talk to me, or if someone is at the door. His name is Levi." "Wow" William said, "what a cool dog!"

"I have a chocolate lab and he is almost two! A mountain lion alost killed him, but he is OK now! He had a whole bunch of staples in his legs! That was so scary! Hey, where is he? Eric, Eric!!" William giggles. "I guess Eric and Levi are friends now," William points Sue in their direction, laughing at the dogs playing in the snow.

Sue asked, "William, where is your Mom?" William remembered to look at Sue this time and said, "She is at home, down the road at my grandma's house." "Is it OK for you and your cousin to be here alone?" Sue asked. "Yea, we play here all the time. We keep the dog with us, and most of the time my Mom and Aunt Ann are with us, but my Mom is very sad today. She is looking for a new home for her horse Jake. My Mommy's horse is 17 1/2 hands! That's really big!" William exclaimed. Tara and Lucy exchanged warm smiles at this excited little boys charms.

Sue recognized a familiar shyness in William's cousin David's behavior. "William," Sue got his attention, "Why hasn't your cousin David said anything since you have been here?" "Oh, he has selective mutism. he gets scared in front of people and he tries real hard, but he can't talk to them. He can talk to me and our whole family and some friends. My Mommy said he will talk in time with some help. So he can't talk to you and you can't hear him. That's sad." William said in such a compassion little voice for a four year old. Being able to talk and hear, his little mind can't imagine not being able to do either. But David was happy and fun to be with. And Sue was very nice and seems very happy. So I guess God takes care of everyone in the whole world he thought, just like his Mommy told him.

"We better go now," said William. "Bye!" "Come on David, come on Eric, we have to go home." The girls all said good-bye to the little boys and the chocolate lab. Levi looked disappointed to see his new friends leaving.

Sue smiled at David and signed good-bye to him. She finger spelled his name. David smiled back and his big blue eyes lit up as he signed back, good-bye! Then finger spelled S U E!

Wow, Anne...this is building into one great story.

Great potential romance, great potential case!!! I'm thinking there's more to the case than our Jack thinks.

Looking forward to things "warming up" on all fronts.

Wow...very nice! I really liked William and David's characters! The way they seemed so innocent was very sweet! Great job! Looking forward to more!!

Fantastic job! The story is building nicely.

Warning for this post. First off, it's rather long as they go to NYC at Christmas time, and it's hard to cut it down when I only have one day. Also, seatbelt warning. For those faint of heart, there are warm fuzzies to help you through! Hope you enjoy!


December 5



Go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born, the choir finished singing. As the group left the adorable little A frame chapel, Jack said "that has always been one of my favorite Christmas songs. My heart swells with such joy when I think of God's love for us. I want to shout it from the mountains!"

"OK, Sparky, calm down boy." Bobby smiled. Sue read what Jack had said, but more importantly she saw a passion in him that matched her own and it touched her deeply. She wondered if maybe, just maybe there was a future for her and Jack. Could it be that God was opening a new door in their lives?

"OK, we have to hurry if we're gonna catch the train to NYC, it leaves in 20 minutes." Jack shouted with joy. As they were leaving Jack noticed the two girls they spoke with, Rachel and Keri. There was a little boy that met the description Sue shared with him with such delight. Jack went over and asked how they were doing. Rachel introduced her little man, as she referred to him. "William, this is Mr. Hudson." William's eyes grew big and he looked up at Jack and said, "You're the FBI!" Jack smiled and said, "yes I am, William. Nice to meet you." "You too," William couldn't help but to giggle in excitement.

Rachel asked Keri to take William and then told Jack that her and Keri had been at the barn earlier in the morning to feed Jake, their horse. They had overheard the creepy worker Nickoli, talking about needing some styling clothes, because he had a meeting tonight at 8pm at the Plaza Hotel in NYC with some very important people. He was on his cell phone and Rachel didn't think Nickoli knew she overheard him, but they were really scared and left quickly.

She said her Mom was so upset and told her to take the horse and tie him to a tree near a pond and let it graze. Just get away from there. Jack was concerned and said, "Rachel, that might not be a bad idea. Well, except it's winter. But do not go back to the barn alone or with Keri. We just happen to be going to NYC now so I will check out this little meeting at the Plaza. Promise me you won't go back to the barn before tomorrow."

Rachel agreed with Jack and said, "Jack, if you're going to NYC be sure to catch the Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Center and go ice skating if you can. And if there is anyway to get tickets, beg, borrow, well don't steal but try to get tickets to Radio City Music Hall to see the Christmas Show. It's the best. Oh, if you have time, try to go up top of the Empire State Building after dark, and Macy's is great at Christmas time. Well, I could go on and on but you only have the day so I better stop." Rachel laughed.

"Thanks Rachel" Jack said. "We better run or we'll miss our train. Stay safe Rachel." Jack smiled as he realized where the little boy Sue described got his zeal for life, after talking to his Mommy.

On the train ride to NYC, Sue noticed the most elegant Victorian house that was made into a Five Star Restaurant. "Jack look!" "Wow, I bet that place is pricey, but it looks like quite a nice place for a special occasion." Jack grinned and held Sue's hand. Wine and Roses. Hmmm.

"I can't believe we were able to get tickets to the 11am performance. It's like a miracle. Those tickets are so hard to get for a week end show this time of year!" Lucy was so excited.

"I do feel bad for the guy. His family couldn't make it because of the flu. That's terrible for them." Tara said. "Their loss, is our gain." Myles smugly replies. Tara hits him, "you're terrible Myles."

They had to rush but they were in time for the start of a show they would never forget. Sue did not need to hear a word to enjoy the excitement of the show. Jack offered to assist if needed, leaving his arm wrapped around Sue's shoulder. She didn't seem to mind. It felt natural, like it belonged there.

"I am so happy they saved the best for last. The whole show was great. Did you see those soldiers all go down? But at the end, the Nativity scene was in a class of it's own." Sue couldn't contain her excitement. Everyone agreed with her.

"Let's grab a bite and then head down to skate before they light the tree," Myles suggested. "Hard Rock Cafe or Planet Hollywood?" "Let's see which line is shorter, I'm starved!" Bobby said.

"I'm glad we sat upstairs. Look at the size of that Christmas tree! It's beautiful! And all these guitars. Hey Elvis, is yours here?" Lucy poked at Bobby. Bobby grinned and reminded her "Elvis has left the building darling," with a wink. Bobby was so much fun. Everyone was having such a great time. After a long series of difficult cases, it was nice to have some down time to enjoy themselves, even though they were still officially working a case.

Jack and Sue were laced up and ready to go. The music playing made Jack want to dance with Sue. But he'd settle for dancing on the ice with her, delighting in her graceful moves and the twinkle in her eyes. She was enjoying herself so much it gave him pleasure to be with her. Jack's heart felt so warm as he pulled her close and they skated together as a couple. Again it felt so natural, her in his arms, so right. He leaned over and kissed the tip of her cold red nose and smiled. Sue felt like she was going to melt. Jack could see she didn't mind and looked into her eyes before letting his lips descend down over hers, taking her breath away. They broke the kiss, but Sue quickly reached up urgently needing more. They deepened the kiss momentarily, before they realized this was not the place for the intimacy they were so desperate for.

They left to join the others and went up to watch the tree lighting. Tara looked at Sue and Lucy and said, "look at all those flags!" Sue commented on the size of the huge Angels in lights lined up on each side of the walkway to Park Avenue.

It was time! This time the whole team burst into huge grins as this enormous tree lit up before them! What a sight! Jack squeezed Sue's hand and their eyes met. Yes, we need to talk Jack thought, as his heart pounded and he wanted so much to be able to say I love you Sue. Neither wanted to break the connection they had at that moment. They were lost in each others eyes.


"OK, Sue and I are wired so Bobby, Tara, Myles stay close for backup. We don't expect any problems, just surveillance, but just in case. Lucy if there is a problem, you are not to come in. Call 911 if necessary. Sue we have to go in as a couple, so we need to do our married routine. Is that OK with you?" Jack winked.

Sue was standing with the others on the corner of Central Park near the horse carriage rides. Looking across the street at the Plaza Hotel, all lit up in Christmas decor, Sue thought, do I mind? How I wish we could be staying here for our honeymoon. It was a grand hotel that entertained many a celebrity.

Sue winked back at Jack and said, "So hubby, will you take me to the Plaza Hotel for dinner?" Jack's thought's weren't far from Sue's. He smiled feeling a bit giddy, and said "it would be my pleasure Mrs. Hudson." But he was thinking, if only we were married and could get a room after dinner. Their eyes connected again and somehow they both knew they needed to talk. They both realized for the first time, this is not a game and they are on the same page.

Inside the Hotel, Jack and Sue had asked to be seated where they knew Sue could read their suspect Nickoli. There were mirrors on the walls so that would help Sue read his connections also. "Jack, this is not a Russian Mafia. This is a solo target group. They are independent but very dangerous. Apparently they kill anyone who gets in their way and it has to do with selling of high tech weapons to undesirables to get their dirty work done. Drugs are also tied in as well as money laundering." Sue looked at Jack a little shaken.

Suddenly one of the men gets up quickly and rushes past Jack and Sue leaving the building. Sue tries to see where he is going through the mirrors. She realizes the other two men are now leaving in another direction. Sue alerts the rest of the team but hadn't noticed Jack slumped over the table. As she turns back to ask Jack where.... She screams "Jack!" alerting the rest of the team.

Jack had been hit by a high tech pen gun that is used to pierce a vital organ causing a quick death. As Sue pulled Jack back from the table his shirt was covered in blood. Lucy had called 911. Fortunately, the best trauma hospital was minutes away and in his rush to flee, the shooter had missed his aim.

Tara ran in to help Sue and Jack, shocked to find Sue covered in Jack's blood, sobbing "Jack, please don't leave me!"

Bobby and Myles managed to subdue the two men their suspect met with, but they never saw the suspect get away.

And you just killed me Anne please you cannot leave it there

See your addicted now Anne! Just admit it! You started writing and you couldn't stop. Then when you did you leave Jack bleeding all over the table and Sue in tears! Tut Tut Tut

Joining the cliffie set now as well!


There was so much there to comment on. Loved the atmosphere and the skating and the team enjoying themselves. Want to know that jack is ok though!


Looking forward to your next post! I've got to Dec 9th. Dont know about you but this is taking forever!

Oh my gosh, what a shift!!! Yep, I'd say you're definitely addicted. Once you start, stopping's not an option. Now, we're stuck with a marvelously written, horribly suspenseful scene! Now, as is only right and true, you'd better make Jack ok!!!

Oh my gosh Anne, how could you leave us hanging like that? Jack was shot and Sue is covered in his blood. You owe us lots of warm fuzzies when he gets better.

Oh my, oh my, oh my...warm fuzzies then WHAM tragedy strikes...keep him safe!!!!

Waiting for more... (foot taping), is it here yet?
Can't wait to see what happens!

Sorry guys for the wait! I was having trouble gettin online!
I'll try to get a couple of posts in today to make up for it!


December 6


Tara and Lucy were doing all they could to try and comfort Sue. But in their heart they knew only God could give her the strength and peace she truly needed. They joined hands and prayed for Sue. Afterwards, they got Sue's attention so she could join them in praying for Jack.

"Sue, Jack is strong. We have to believe he will pull through!" Lucy wasn't sure if she was trying to convince Sue or herself. She glanced over at Tara's concerned expression. Tara knowing Sue couldn't see her speak started to sob. "Lucy, the blood loss was so bad, it will take a miracle for Jack to live. I'll be right back, I don't want Sue to see me like this."

Sue sat in silence, waiting for word from the trauma team. Lucy wrapped her arm around Sue and waited with her.

Bobby came rushing down the hospital corridor looking for the girls. "Any word yet?" he asked anxiously. "No!" Lucy sighed with tears in her eyes. Bobby knelt before Sue. "Sue, Jack is going to be OK, look at me Sue!" She forced herself to lift her weary head to read him, but as she looked at Bobby and thought of his close friendship with Jack, she grabbed onto him and just sobbed, realizing she was not the only one in danger of losing their best friend. As Bobby held Sue tightly, Sue could feel the warmth of Bobby's tears now streaming down his face onto hers.

Holding Sue, knowing how much Jack and Sue loved each other, was breaking his heart. Bobby had just lost control, but took comfort in holding onto Sue for Jack. No words were necessary. He was finally able to compose himself enough to bring Sue back over to sit. He took off his jacket and placed it on his lap for a pillow and pulled Sue down to get some much needed rest as they continued to wait. He thought of how tortured Myles must be, not knowing what was happening and having to return to DC.

Tara overheard one of the trauma nurses in the ladies room, talking to another nurse about an emergency involving an FBI agent. "Please, he is a very close friend of mine, we work together," Tara was showing her badge as she pleaded, "please tell me he will be OK!"

Seeing the badge was significant to the trauma nurse. She was married to a NYPO. She knew he'd be kicking the doors down to get information if it was his partner. She sympathetically told Tara, "I will go in and get all the information I can. I will be right back. But you have to promise you won't turn me in or let anyone know I gave you this information. My husband works for the NYPD and I understand how hard this is for you." Tara's hand went to her mouth and she let out another sob and thanked her. They hugged with a promise of a quick return.

Really worth the wait loved the friendship between Bobby and Sue and Tara's anxiety.

Post again soon. Still need tofind out if Jack is Ok

Fantastic job!! I am glad you were able to post. Looking forward to more! Jack had better be ok!!!

As promised, here's the second post in one day! Oh my this is addictive!


December 7

A guard at Jack's door let Tara in after seeing her badge. Sue woke startled as Tara came to relieve her. "Sue, you have to eat and get some sleep. Jack is not expected to wake up soon. They want him to sleep so his body will heal. But you need to be rested so you can be his nurse when they finally let him out of here!" Tara winked at Sue.

"You're right Tara. What I really need is a hot bath and some real food and a warm bed would be nice too. I just hate to leave him. I can't believe how close we came to losing him forever. You heard the nurses, it's a miracle Jack is alive. If that evil man had hit where he aimed we'd be at Jack's funeral." Sue broke down again. Tara hugged her.

"Thank God we were as close as we were to a major trauma unit or he would have bled to death. Which reminds me, Lucy is out buying you some new clothes. It was very nice of the staff to lend you some scrubs so you didn't have to stay in the clothes you came in here with. But I think it's time for a new wardrobe," Tara smiled.

Just then Lucy came in all excited, "you would not believe the sales girls! Here ya go Sue, warm up!" "Lucy you're a lifesaver, I can't imagine walking around NYC in scrubs. Although if you are going to look strange, nobody would notice in NYC." They all giggled.

Sue came back from changing, "You two have been so wonderful. Thankyou! Where are Bobby and Myles?" She asked. "Myles just got back from DC after helping deliver the two men that they caught trying to escape from the Hotel Restaurant. Bobby said him and Myles were going back upstate to talk to the girls, Rachel and Keri. They also want to check and see if Nickoli ever returned to the area. It's not very likely after what happened to Jack, but you never know just how stupid crazy people can be! Oh and Myles said to give you his best and he's looking forward to getting down here to see you and Jack."

"Thanks Tara, and please call me on my blackberry if there are any changes! Promise me or I'm not leaving!" Sue said in her most stubborn demeanor. "I'm wounded," Tara teased Sue to lighten the moment, reassuring her that she would definitely call her immediately if there were any changes. Sue leaned over to kiss Jack good bye finding it so hard to leave, but knowing this was her best chance to take care of herself before Jack woke up, she gave him one more kiss before leaving and once again thanking Tara and Lucy.

Walking out to get a cab, Sue noticed a music store and a thought came to her. "Excuse me, could you show me where your Christmas Carol selections are?" "Right down isle 2 Miss, on your left." "Thanks!" Sue rushed to find her intended gift. Oh great, he'll love it, Sue thought. Hmm, he'll need a CD player with a headset to enjoy this whenever he wants. Oh, they have those too. Great!

Great posts...I'm glad he's going to be okay and I'm glad Sue will be able to help him heal.

Nice touch about the music and headphones.

I'm loving this Anne! Can't wait for more!

Fantastic job! I am glad that despite her obvious devotion to Jack, Sue is willing to take care of herself, and sees the need for it. Keep up the excellent work!

Oh my gosh this is getting harder as it gets closer to Christmas! OK, I can do this! RIGHT???? Actually I am having fun with this! I just want to try to keep up!

December 8


Rachel and Keri were huddled in a barn loft crying, frightened for their lives. "I'm so cold and scared," Keri cried. "Me too," Rachel was near hysterics at the thought of never seeing her little man William again. "I think he is going to kill us for letting the FBI know he was going to the Plaza Hotel. He said it's the only way they would know he was there. He is so angry and even more scary. I can't believe he killed Jack! Oh God, I feel so guilty for telling Jack about the meeting. I don't know why Nickoli hasn't killed us yet but I'm sure he will!" Rachel continued to cry. "Where do you think we are" Keri asked? "I don't know, but it didn't seem like it was that far a drive" Rachel answered.

Sue held Jack's hand, thanking God for giving them another chance. She was still having trouble believing how close she came to losing the love of her life, before she even had a chance to tell him she loved him. That would soon change, she promised herself.

Sue wanted Jack to wake up right now so she could look into those brown eyes that captured her soul. "Soon Jack, I'll tell you when you wake up just how much I love you," Sue said out loud.

Tara and Lucy returned to the hospital after taking a break, knowing Sue and Jack were doing better. "You go ahead Lucy, I'm going over to the gift shop. I'll check in with Bobby and Myles and then join you," Tara said. "OK, see ya later. Don't buy everything, I want to shop too," Lucy laughed.

Tara was not only able to find some cute gifts for Jack and Sue, but she managed to get quite a bit of her Christmas shopping done, even shipped back to DC.

"Hey Lucy, how are they doing?" Tara asked as she arrived in Jack's room. Lucy turned smiling, and pointed for Tara to see for herself. "Aren't they just the cutest," Lucy giggled? Sue had fallen back to sleep before Lucy arrived. She had pulled the chair up as close to the bed as possible and got on her knees so she could get as close to Jack as possible without hurting him. His hand firmly in her's, in case he woke up.

Tara smiled and showed Lucy her little gifts. "Oh, they'll love them," Lucy smiled peeking into the box holding the two ice skating bears. Mama bear and Papa bear skating, hmmm, wonder how long before baby bear joins them she couldn't help but let her minder wander to better days ahead.

"So what did Bobby and Myles have to say?" Lucy asked. "I'll have to call them back later. I couldn't reach them. I hope everything is OK!" Tara stared out the window looking at the view of the city.

"It is so beautiful with the fresh fallen snow and all the Christmas decorations. People talk about the money and greed over the holidays but I say it's what you make it. It's not about money, it's about, family, friends, love and God." Tara said.

"I agree," Lucy sighed. "I love to buy, but Christmas is about God first, family, friends and love. Old fashioned but the best. When Jack wakes up, that will be the best Christmas present any of us could get, especially Sue."

I actually got another day in! I'm so proud!

December 9


Sue had just returned from showering when the doctors came in and told her the good news she was waiting for. "Today we are going to cut back Mr. Hudson's medications and work on waking him up. We believe he is ready. Will you be able to stay with him and talk to him to help stimulate him? It's helpful to get him to regain consciousness." "I won't be leaving his side!" Sue was so eager for Jack to wake up. "Great, we'll check back later or use the call button to get a nurse if he starts to wake."

As Sue sat by Jack's side, holding his hand, caressing it with her lips and whispering, "Jack, it's time to come back to me," she was startled by his hand squeezing hers. She looked up and saw half open little lost puppy dog eyes, a little confused. "Jack, let me get the doctor." Sue reached for his call button and the nurse came right in.

"It's nice of you to join us again Mr. Hudson. Would you like that tube removed so you can talk to this beautiful lady who has barely left your side for a moment for the last few days while you've been napping," teased the nurse. She always liked to welcome her patients back to consciousness with some humor. She knew reality would hit soon enough. "We'll get that out and I'll get you some ice chips. Let me just page your doctor."

"So Mr. Hudson, I understand you work for the FBI. I guess that can be quite dangerous to your health at times?" Dr. Sandorth joked a bit with his patient. "Are the chips helping or would you like some spray for your throat?" "Ice OK," Jack whispered hoarsely.

"How about the pain? Are the meds working or do you need a little more to take the edge off? "I'm OK," Jack once again whispered.

"You need to know what happened. What do you remember last?" the doctor asked, checking for any memory loss. "Dinner, Sue, suspect leaving, nothing." Jack strained to get out. Sue looked at the doctor and nodded, pleased Jack remembered exactly what happened.

"Great, you might have taken a high tech bullet in the chest, but your brain is still in tact," the doctor teased, still trying to keep things as light as possible.

"High tech bullet?" Jack stared. "Well, let's just say you and this beautiful lady friend of yours got an early Christmas gift, a miracle. That bullet should have taken your life. I guess God has other plans for you. I'm glad you were close enough to us, that we could help out in that miracle. Stories like yours help us get through the days when things don't go quite so well," Dr. Sandorth added.

"If you have any questions, let the nurse know and I'll get back to you. I'll be back a little later to check on you and we'll see how the healing process is progressing."

"When can I leave?" Jack asked anxiously, hating hospitals. "Not today," the doctor and Sue shared a smile, as the doctor closed the door leaving.

"So Sue, you have something you want to tell me?" Jack was grinning. Sue blushed and asked, "How?" "I couldn't answer you then, but I could hear you Sue. I want to hear you tell me just how much," Jack winked at Sue, "but first I want to tell you how much I love you. You are everything to me Sue. I love you so much and always have. I knew we needed to talk. I just didn't think it would be in a hospital. Not exactly my idea of a romantic night out, but I can't wait any longer and I promise I'll make it up to you."

"Jack, just the fact that you're alive, to be able to tell you that I love you so much, that I don't ever want to live without you. When I held you in my arms watching you bleed to what I thought would be your death, I felt like I was dying with you. I begged you not to leave me! Thank you for staying! Now that's what I call romantic," Sue grinned. "And we can make it up to each other," she winked! Jack just smiled and said, "Sue you're the best and I did hear you ask me not to leave you! I didn't know if I could do it, but I prayed that God would give us the chance that we had never taken. Now we have that. And Sue, I am so sorry for what you must have gone through. I know if that had been you I would have been in agony, I know that must have been so hard for you!"

Sue leaned down and gave Jack a tender kiss and then grabbed the Christmas giftbag she had for him and excitedly said, "Open it!" Jack's eyes were wide and he said, "I wasn't asleep that long was I? It's not Christmas yet is it?" Sue laughed at his silliness and said "open it or I'll take it back!" "Wow, a CD player, in here I'll be needing that! A collection of Christmas carols! Oh I love these! Aaah, Go tell it on the Mountain! That's what I love about you Sue, you pay such close attention. I love it, thank you so much!"

"Sue help me to understand your needs. I know being a man I might not always be in touch with my feminine side, as Myles would say," Jack laughed, "but seriously Sue, I want to be there for you and meet your needs, even if you have to help me out in understanding what they are. I promise I will do my best, but please don't give up on me. I love you and I want to know if I'm failing so I can make things better.

Anne that was really sweet. I could visualise it all. Really glad Jack knows she loves him.


A very nice way to start my morning.

Great story.......making me weak in the knees.

Somehow I can imagine my self and Bobby in this story......

Very, very sweet!!!

Wow, now that's called a big, old huge step forward. Nicely done.

Awesome job! Very sweet.

Please add more soon

Wonderful post Anne. Cant wait for more.

Yikes Anne! You are posting faster than I can read! That was great so far. Loved the high tech gun thingy (although shooting someone with it...well, let's just say I like the technology)

I loved how devoted Sue is to Jack...I mean, staying with him for days, even falling asleep kneeling just so she can hold his hand when he wakes up...

Great job! Remind me to keep checking out the the Christmas stories...I'm kinda forgetful

JoM