Ok, I'm taking the plunge. I've never written a STFBEYE story before, or really romance, so hopefully this will turn out ok. Any feedback would be great. Thanks for reading!

I don't own the anything from STFBEYE, but this story belongs to me.


Prologue

The leaves overhead rustled softly in the cool autumn breeze. He sat back on the bench and glanced up toward them, but did not really see them as his thoughts drifted. So much had happened in the last six months, and now….

She slowly slid her hand over his shoulder, letting him know she was there and not pressuring him. He would speak when he was ready, and not before. That was his nature and she would be there whenever he was ready. He reached up and clasped her hand in his acknowledging her gentle presence, thinking back to how they had arrived to this point in their lives.

First, Sbfisher, welcome to the challenge!!!

And, secondly, you already have me hooked!! Wonderful description - you have captured this opening scene beautifully!!!

Joy

Beautiful beginning, Sbfisher!

Who are we watching? What's happened over the course of the last 6 months? I know who I always HOPE it is, but sometimes I'm wrong . . . go figure?! Looking forward to reading more of your story!!

Hi Susan

Happy you have decided to join the challange. I look forward to reading your story. And, like Regina, I'm curious who this couple is, and hoping it is about who I think. But I've learned never to assume anything around here!

Lynn

First, welcome to the challenge..
And second...very lovely scene and I am curious to know who they are
Josy

Very captivating start! And you're leaving us guessing as to who your characters are and what significant events over 6 months have led them...well, we don't know where exactly...but I can't wait to read more.

kav

You may be right about who the couple may be!

Here's another post for you. I know it's short, but hopefully I'll get some longer ones before long.



Chapter 1

“I’m staying.”

Jack Hudson had never been more excited to hear those two words spoken as when she told him she was staying in Washington DC and not taking the position in New York. The speech he had so wanted to give her was quickly ‘forgotten’ and they moved on in to the celebratory breakfast to welcome Sue Thomas back, even though she hadn’t really left.

Several weeks had passed and business as usual had returned to their office. He sat back in his chair and glanced toward her desk, contemplating his feelings. He knew he cared for her deeply, one may also venture to say that he loved her, but wasn’t sure what his next step would be. He didn’t want to ruin what was already a great relationship, but were they really for the next level?

He rose from his desk and walked over to her, kneeling to give Levi a good rub. Glancing up, he saw her questioning look. “What are your plans for this weekend?”

Her eyebrows shot up, then she pursed her lips thoughtfully. “Nothing really. Just a quiet weekend at home. Why? Did you need help with something?”

“No, nothing like that. Just thought maybe we could, you know, go out to dinner, maybe catch a movie. Just us and Levi, no shop talk. What do you think?”

Sue pretended to consider her options. “Hhmm. I don’t know. Levi was just telling me he was looking forward to doing nothing after working so hard this week.”

Jack quirked a smile. “I guess, if that’s the case….”

“Jack,” she stopped him, laying a hand on his arm. “I would love to.”

Hmmm . . . They're going out on a date - a first date - several weeks after she decided to stay in DC. And the prologue indicates that 6 months have passed, and that there had been some kind of milestone . . . but WHAT?

I'm really enjoying this. I liked this line, especially . . Very cute!!

Hi there!! I'm hooked!

Tere

Oh...a movie...a dinner...it can hold some many promises
Josy

I am excited to see your story, and will be waiting to see what unfolds.

This is great! Definitely looking foward to more!

Can't wait for more!!

Tere

Welcome to the challenge! I love your beginning! I just can't wait to see how it escalates from here!

Lindsy

Great start, begs for more.

Not only a dinner and a movie but no shop talk to boot!

kav

I must agree with Kav...no shop talk; just great

I'm with the others; dinner, a movie and NO shop talk! A "real" date!

Oh, and can I say it is who I thought it would be?

Lynn

Ysy! they're going on a date. i can't wait to read the rest.

It appears this is going to be a true date!! You really captured Sue here with her comment about Levi not wanting to do anything - so like Sue to tease Jack like this!!!

Joy

Here's the next segment. Thanks for all your comments!



Chapter 2

They walked slowly back to the apartment after a fun filled day. Jack had arrived at her apartment mid afternoon with the purpose of walking and playing with Levi in the park before leaving for dinner and their movie. After a low key dinner, they choose a laid back film showing at the Montrose. Now, after stopping for coffee, they were heading back to her place.

They had spent the evening engaging in light conversation, and whenever there was a lull, it was filled with companionable silence. Topics related to work never appeared.

They slowed and came to a stop in front of her building. Jack held her hand and looked into her eyes. “I had a great time tonight.”

Sue nodded her head. “Me, too. I’m sorry to see it end.” She caught her lower lip between her teeth before she spoke again. “You know, if you want, we can meet up again tomorrow. I’ll be attending church in the morning, but I could you somewhere or come over.”

“I’d like that. If it’s okay, how about I join you for church and then we could have lunch afterwards?”

“It’s a date then.” They stood for several more moments, staring at each other. If asked, neither would be able to tell later who made the first move. The kiss was tender, spoke of kindness and peace. Before it could deepen, Jack pulled back.

He gently moved her hair away from her face. “I don’t want to rush this. I know we’ve known each other for several years, but this is a new level in our relationship. I want to explore each every step with you, but not rush it. Is this making sense?”

She nodded. “It does.” She smiled up at him. “I believe in going slow, but not too slow.” Blushing, she raised her hand up to his face and caressed his cheek. “We can take it as slow as we need to. I’ll see in the morning?”

After one more kiss, they broke apart and he watched as she safely made it inside. With a goofy grin on his face, he turned and headed home.

I like the way you are writing the gentleness between them here.

That was simply lovely, Susan!! It makes me think of the scene in "Simon Says," when Jack points out the full moon, and when they get back to the apartment, they just stare at one another. It's just like all the other times, except there seems to be a different glint in both their eyes that wasn't there before, that speaks to the emotions they're experiencing at the time. I SO WANTED A KISS THEN . . . but you've given me one, now!!

WOOHOO!!! Love it!!!

Tere

I agree with Ivory, I love the gentleness of the kiss between them
Lovely
Josy

Oh Gina you're so right that was one of those scenes I too wanted a kiss from them. By the way that episode is on today over here in the Uk...coincidence or what?

And in this story the gentlest of kisses.So now they have to explore their relationship.
Can't wait for more...so no more backpedalling from either one of them.

Oh Regina, I couldn't agree more. They should have kissed!!!

And now they have! That is simply wonderful.

Lindsy

Regina, I'm joining the rest.....you nailed that episode and the yearning left by "no kiss" perfectly. And now, Susan, you have given that to us. Sweet, lovely and so full of promise!

Lynn

That's definitely one of my favorite episodes - it really showed both Jack and Sue's feelings, even though they didn't move forward and we didn't get a kiss!! But here's the kiss we've been pining for, and it was perfect!!!

Joy

They are just the best couple ever.

Great story, sbfisher. Looking forward to reading more.

- RSL

Slight tissue alert.

Note: ASL conversation will be in bold.



Chapter 3

Spring slowly turned to summer, and like new life their relationship began to blossom over the weeks.

As promised, they took each step slowly and enjoyed learning new things about each other. Jack learned that Sue really enjoyed trying new dishes and cooked often at his apartment. Sue learned that Jack was a closet wood carver, something he had done since he was a young boy, but claimed he didn’t have much time for it these days.

On this particular night, Sue was fixing an old but favorite dish at Jack’s. After dealing with a particularly hard case that week, they had decided for their down time to stay home and watch a movie. She lifted the lid off the dish and stirred the vegetables. She felt him come up behind her and wrap his arms around her, nuzzling her neck while she checked the food. Smells good, he signed.

Placing the lid back on the pan, she leaned back into his arms. “It should be ready in a few minutes.”

Jack turned her around and lovingly placed his lips on hers, slowly deepening the kiss. “I was hoping for more than just a few minutes.”

“Jack, you’re terrible!” she smiled before leaning in for another kiss. “We can pick this up after supper is over.”

He teased, “You’re no fun.” His brown eyes danced with laughter as he gazed into hers. “However, I’m so glad you’re here tonight. It’s been a long week, too long.”

I know. Sue turned back to the stove to check on the food one more time. “Listen, why don’t you set the table while I get the drinks ready. We’ll eat then watch that movie you’ve raved so much about.”

Jack turned to Levi. “She’s such the slave driver,” he said.

“I saw that!”

Grinning, he gathered up the dishes and silverware and headed to the table to do as he was told. Just as he finished putting the last item down, the phone rang. Phone, as he headed to the living room to pick up the cordless. Seeing that it was his parent’s number, he headed back to the kitchen pressing the on button as he went. “Hi.”

The next words caused him to stop in the doorway. Sue turned in time to see him reply, “When?” Seeing the look on his face and tears in his eyes, she hurried to his side. He held out a hand to her and she quickly grabbed it. “I see. I’ll need to make sure I have everything cleared up at work, but I should be there either tomorrow or the next day.” He paused and looked at Sue, uncertainty showing in his eyes. “I don’t know, Mom. I’ll ask her. Yeah, I’ll let you know the travel plans as soon as I know what they are. Listen, are you going to be ok until then? Who? Good, I’m glad she’s there. If you need me before then, call my cell phone, ok? Don't try and do everything by yourself. Ok, mom, I love you, too. Bye.”

He hung up the phone and placed it on the counter. “That was my mom. My…” He suddenly found he couldn’t speak. My dad had a heart attacked earlier this afternoon. They got him to the hospital, but by the time they got him there, there wasn’t anything they could do. He’s gone.
Sue pulled him into a hug and he clung to her for dear life, as he cried for the loss of his father.

Poor Jack! and Jack's mom!! I bet Sue will be there with him

Tere

How terribly sad, and unexpected. I'm so glad Sue was there when he found out about his dad. I'm sure she'll go with him to Wisconsin? I'm anxious to see what all happens between now, summer, and the beginning of the story, which is autumn.

Thanks for a great story!

How sad that Jack has to face the death of his father. It is so good that Sue is with him.

That was so real, Susan, I shivered when I read it and wept for Jack. But I, too, am glad Sue was there with him when he received the phone call. Her presence will be a comfort and something to bring them even closer than they are at this point in their newly developing relationship!

Lynn

How sad!! However, I am glad that Sue is on his side...
Josy

You painted such a domestic scene!! You could feel the love in the room!! I could also feel Jack's pain at his mother's call about his father!! I'm so glad that they were both there so Sue could comfort Jack in this time of sorrow!! I know she will be going with him to Wisconsin!!!

Joy

I am so glad that Sue had been there. Poor Jack.

Lindsy

Very touching scene. From the beauty of love and bliss, to the reality of pain in life and being there for your loved ones.

Again, thank you for all of your comments.


ASL will be in bold.



Chapter 4

Headlights from the car danced across his childhood home as he pulled into the driveway, shifted the gear to park the car, and then turned the ignition to off. He leaned back in his seat and briefly closed his eyes. It had been a long drive.

He glanced over at the passenger seat and the figure curled up in the seat with her head leaning against the window, sleeping. He raised his hand and gently tucked blond strands of hair behind her ear before caressing her check. She moved slightly at his touch then, realizing that the car was no longer moving, opened her eyes. We’re here, he signed.

Sue nodded her head and reached down to release the clasp on the seatbelt. She turned to watch Jack do the same and then glanced in the back seat at Levi to check on him. Fifteen hours was a long time to be stuck in the car. She had suggested that they leave Levi with Lucy and then fly, but Jack wouldn’t hear of it. His argument was that Levi was as much a part of her and there was no sense in leaving him behind.

Still shaking the cobwebs of sleep out of her head, she watched Jack step out of the car and reach back for Levi. She quickly climbed out of the car and met him, taking the leash from him. “I’ll walk him. You need to go in to your mom. We’ll be in shortly.”

Too tired to argue, Jack simply nodded. He reached up and cupped her face with his hand. “Have I told you lately how much I love you.”

She turned her head and kissed his palm. “All the time. Go. She needs you right now.”
Giving her face one more caress, he turned and headed for the porch. He could tell she was still up – all the lights were on in the house. He opened the door and headed first for the living room, then the kitchen where he found her sitting at the table holding a mug.

Nora Hudson stood up and crossed the room to her son. They reached for each other and held on, no words needed to express their sorrow.

###

Sue silently let herself into the Hudson home trying to decipher where Jack would be. “Levi, find Jack.” The golden retriever led her toward the back of the house where Sue soon discovered the kitchen was located.

Jack still had his arms around his mother, but noticed as Levi and Sue entered the kitchen. “Mom, you remember Sue?” he asked as he stepped back so Sue could see their conversation.

“Yes, good to see you again, Sue,” Nora said with a watery smile, tears still evident in her eyes.

“Good to see you too, Mrs. Hudson.” Sue fidgeted with Levi’s leash. Jack noticed her nervousness and reached over to clasp her hands. “I don’t really know what to say except that I’m sorry for your loss. Mr. Hudson was a good man.”

Nora nodded in agreement. “That he was, my dear, that he was. And, he would be appalled if he was here and I haven’t offered you anything yet.” The tension seemed to evaporate from the room.

Jack released his hold on Sue and turned to both women, speaking and signing, “While you two get reacquainted, I’ll go get the luggage and bring them in. Should I put Sue’s stuff in Kim’s old room?”

“That will be fine. Kim won’t be here until sometime tomorrow. Becky used that room last night, but I told her since you two were coming in, she didn’t have to stay. She did change the sheets before she left,” this last part directed to Sue as Nora moved toward the business area of the kitchen. “Do you want anything to drink, eat, Sue?”

Sue watched Jack leave the room with Levi in tow. “Juice will be fine, if you have any.” Once drinks had been poured, the two women sat down at the table with Jack joining them shortly, speaking of nothing and everything until the wee hours of the morning. No one wanted to talk about the funeral that would happen in the next few days.

That was so bittersweet. The feelling of shock, mixed together with the need to reach out for support from loved ones, came through clearly.

For some reason, this little exchange touched my heart. It just shows how their relationship has progressed over the months, and that Jack tells Sue that he loves her both with words AND with actions. As Ivory said, a very bittersweet post, but one that shows just how important loved ones are at these times.

A beautiful post!!!

Joy

Poor Mrs. Hudson! Glat to know that Sue is with them

Tere

Sweet and sad in the same time...
Josy

Enjoyable story, Susan. Your writing has an easy, familiar feel to it.

I look forward to more.

A little bit of sweetness in this time of darkness.

Lindsy

Poor Sue what a bittersweet way to become one of the family.

kav

Very beautifully written, Susan. I'm grieving too, shedding tears and my throat has a big lump in it! There is a heaviness in my heart, as though Mr. Hudson were a member of my family.

Lynn