PART ONE: OUT OF THE MOUTH OF BABES

She was captivating as she sat across the table from me. Her hair reminded me of gold as it lay against the red sweater that she was wearing. Those expressive hazel eyes of hers sparkled like diamonds when she smiled at me, putting the Christmas lights that were framing the window behind her to shame. It was hard not to stare at her.

It was a week before Christmas and we were getting something to eat at a sub sandwich shop in her neighborhood before we were due at the Little Book Club later.

She put down the meatball sub that she was eating. “Your parents are arriving on Wednesday at 5:40, right, Jack?” She asked me.

“Right, I confirmed, “and you said that your parents are due in on Tuesday at 6:45.”

She nodded. “You know, this will be the first time that our parents will be visiting here at the same time.”

“Yeah, that’s right.” .

“You know...partner...we could team up in our efforts to show them a good time,” she suggested.

“Sounds like a great plan,” I told her. Any plan would sound good to me that provided the opportunity to spend a lot of time with her. Sue and I spent the next twenty minutes brainstorming to think of things that our parents might enjoy doing. By the time we had to leave, we had a good list made. I told her as we put on our coats on to leave that I thought it was shaping up to be a wonderful Christmas.

We left the sandwich shop and walked together over to the library just a few blocks away. I had offered to go over and get my car, which was parked over by her place, but she suggested that a walk in the snow might be nice. I figured she would need someone to keep her warm on the walk, and I was just the man for the job.

Faithful Levi took his place on her left. I took my place on her right as we both escorted our favorite person in the world down the street. As we rounded the corner on M Street, we were met with a gust of wind. I drew Sue closer to my side to try to block her from the chilly air.

The smell of books greeted us when we entered the library. We turned to our left to enter the children’s reading room. Ken, the jovial man who was the children’s librarian, was there along with some of the other volunteer readers. He greeted us and gave us our reading assignments.

It was a good sized group for being this close to Christmas. There were about eighteen children and nine volunteers. Amanda Duffman had already left with her father to spend Christmas in Pennsylvania. Among the children present was five-year-old Melissa Blair. Sue and she were often paired together. Sue sat down to begin reading with little Melissa. I was assigned to read with Johnny Carlson. It was a good match because we both love sports. Soon the room was filled with the sight of stories coming to life as we shared them with the children.

Now I know you aren’t supposed to have favorites, but I find myself drawn to little Melissa. Maybe it is because she reminds me of what Sue must have been like at that age.

Johnny’s parents arrived a bit early, so I finished before Sue. I went over to where she was reading with Melissa and sat down to watch them.

I noticed that Melissa was having difficulty sitting still during her story. The reason soon became clear. She was excited because she had just learned earlier that day that she was going to be a flower girl in her aunt’s wedding next week. She told us all about her new red dress, and the basket of flowers that she would be carrying.

Suddenly, she grew serious. I wondered what was going on in that cute, little head of hers. She came over and crawled up in my lap. She signed, Mr. Jack, since I can’t marry my daddy...he is married to mommy you know...can I marry you?

Terror struck as I tried to figure out what to do. Melissa looked up at me with her big, hazel eyes, waiting for my answer. I rubbed my hands on my pants to dry then and then haltingly began to sign. Melissa, it makes my heart happy that you would want to marry me; but I am the same age as your mommy and daddy and Miss Sue. If you decide that you want to be a bride when you grow up, you will want to marry someone more your own age. I gave her nose a gentle tap. You will be a pretty flower girl Melissa, just like a princess.

She beamed at me. I know. That’s what Daddy says.

She suddenly became thoughtful. Mr. Jack, maybe you can marry Miss Sue.

I looked over at Sue, pleading for help, but she just smiled impishly at me.

What a novel idea!!

Great start to this story, Ivory!! You've kept us guessing as to the exact nature of the relationship between Jack and Sue at this point, but I can tell that it's a pretty relaxed relationship if they're planning to entertain their parents together . . . and Jack doesn't hesitate to pull her to him to protect her from the cold . . . and the way she paused when she called him "partner" . . . hmmmm . . . .

I can't wait for more!!

fantastic start, has Melissa been signing with Helga? they are thinking alike

cath

Welcome to the challenge, Ivory. Wonderful start. The imagery here warmed my heart. And I love little Melissa. My heart soared when Jack said she was his favorite.

And Sue smiling impishly? Loved it. Now what is Sue going to say to help Jack out here?

I am going to enjoy Jack and Sue getting their parents together. And I have a feeling their parents are not the only ones who will be getting together.

Lynn

See Jack. Even a five year old can tell that you and Sue should be together!!

Great start Ivory. Can't wait for more

I love this little girl!

Tere

Regina, I was thinking the same as you when I first began reading. There seems to be more going on between them than just a... partnership.

Great start Ivory! And with a whole week until Christmas, I'm sure Jack and Sue could get in quite a bit of together time. Right?

Lindsy

Thanks everyone. Don't you just love how straight forward kids can be about things. Let's see if Jack takes advantage of the opening that little Melissa has given him.

PART TWO: LAUGHTER IN A KISS

I was saved from answering Melissa’s question by the sudden appearance of a man with a gray beard who was wearing a red suit trimmed in white fur. I was suddenly upstaged by that jolly-looking man as Melissa ran over to join the other children to see what Santa had in his big bag for her. Santa reached in his bag and pulled out a new book and a book mark for each child.

When we arrived back at Sue’s apartment later I didn’t want to say good night, so she didn’t have to ask twice when she invited me up for some hot chocolate. I sat on the couch and watched her delicate movements as she made our drinks. The smell of the cocoa reached me even before she left the kitchen. She came and joined me on the couch. I thanked her as I reached for my mug.

Levi circled around and then lay at Sue’s feet. I gave him a rub on the neck. She put down her cup of hot chocolate, reached over, and placed her hand over mine. “You seem quiet, Jack.”

“Sorry, I was thinking about what Melissa asked tonight.”

“Oh?” She narrowed her eyes at me like she was trying to follow my thoughts.

“You know the expression, out of the mouth of babes?” She nodded. “I’m sure Tara could tell us where the expression came from, but...well...it’s like this.” I closed my eyes praying for the words. “Sue, I have been such a first-class idiot. Little Melissa seems to know how I feel about you. I’m sure that the team does, too, especially our matchmaker Lucy. And you know how Helga keeps asking about us.” I wasn’t sure my mouth would continue to cooperate, so I signed what was in my heart. What I am trying to say, and doing such a poor job, is that I love you. I have for a very long time. The breath that I had taken before left me in a sigh of relief at the release of my emotions. I am so sorry I didn’t tell you sooner. When her eyes immediately brimmed with tears, my heart sank. I was sure that I had just blown it with her.

She finally looked at me and said, “Thank you.”

“Thank you? Is that all I am going to get.”

“Jack Hudson, you have kept me waiting for all this time and you expect me just to fall into your arms?”

“N-no, but I was hoping you would forgive me for ...”

She put her finger up to my lips. “You had better kiss me this time or I will take you out, sniper or no sniper.” She beat gently on my chest with her fist to accent her words.

I was so relieved when she fell into my arms. She was so soft and warm as I held her close to my heart. With her voice trembling, she told me that she loved me, too. It took everything in me not to pounce on her. She had kissed me on the cheek before, and there was the undercover kiss we had, but now I was going to kiss her for real. The desire to kiss her was fierce. Moving slowly, I leaned in, giving her time to back away if she needed to. Her lips were warm on mine. First she seemed hesitant and shy, but then as she adjusted to the closeness we were sharing, she relaxed. There was so much love expressed through her kiss that it blew me away. Never had a woman kissed me like that before. It was then that I really understood what mom and dad meant when they said that there is nothing like a kiss from the one you love with all your heart.

When the time for words came, she looked up at me with her eyes sparkling. “There’s nothing really to forgive Jack. I understand how complicated this has been for both of us...our careers at the Bureau...the risks in the kind of work we do... the rules...my deafness. That is a lot to work through.” She put her hand up to my cheek and caressed it. I shivered at her touch. “What does this mean for us, Jack?”

“As far as work goes, I honestly don’t know. It could go either way. If it means leaving the team, so be it. Right now, I know I love you with all my heart and I want to pursue a relationship with you, if you’re willing. I am in this for the long term.”

“I want that, too, with all my heart,” she told me.

I leaned her back to kiss her when she suddenly winced. I eased back. “What is it?”

She reached behind her. “I think...I have just found Levi’s lost tennis ball.”

caught 2 wonderful parts and cant wait to find out more
Lin

Perhaps Levi left it there because he thought it would make a nice gift?

Ah, love.

Lindsy

Nothing like finding a lost dog toy at an inopportune time!! Very sweet, Ivory. If we'd known that Christmas spirit would have spurred Jack on, everyone would have been clamoring for another Christmas episode YEARS ago!!

Ivory, I was so glad to come back to find that you have joined the challenge!! I've missed your stories!!!

Well, it looks like the winter cold and wind, Christmas spirit, plus Melissa pushed Jack in the right direction!! You have both Jack and Sue so in character that I could see that happening so plainly!! If they were to do another Christmas episode they should hire you as writer!!!

Joy

What a fantastic beginning to a promising story! ('m a sucker for a library setting!) If only someone as dreamy as Jack would saunter into my library! I'm thinking it's very convenient that both sets of parents are heading into town for the holidays.

kav

Tere

so pleased he did something about what melissa said

cath

Oh, I always thought it was a shame they didn't do a Christmas episode each year! I think the writers were CHICKEN, 'cause they knew that sooner or later Jack would give Sue the gift she'd been wanting ever since they met...

But now Ivory, you're taking care of what they should have done back then! Wonderful start and wonderful to see a new story from you!

Tina

Thank you so much everyone. Sue and Jack are at the airport. Let's join them.

PART THREE: THE CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

Sue and I walked through Dulles airport on our way to baggage claim to meet my parents. We had just reached the first carousel when my cell phone rang. I cringed. We were off-duty, but in the event of a serious crisis, well, I didn’t want to think about that. Heaven knows, I love my job, but it is so wonderful to be on vacation. Our case load has been so heavy that we almost began to dread seeing Ted or D. appear. Everyone’s inbox had been overflowing with end of the year reports. Randy Pitts had been on the war path driving everyone on the team crazy with budget cuts. We were even short with each other at times. It was obvious that we were all ready for a break. Because we put in a lot of overtime at Thanksgiving, we were given extra days at off this Christmas. Tom Stone’s team was covering the Christmas shifts this year. We weren’t due to report back until January 5th. I looked at the display and felt like shouting. The call was from my grandparents. I talked to them while we waited for the plane and wished them a Merry Christmas.

I noticed after my call that Sue was laughing at me. “You should have seen your face when that phone rang, Jack. You looked like a little boy who was told he needed to stay after school.”

“Oh, is that so.”

“Definitely. I even took your picture with my Blackberry as proof.”

“You did? I didn’t see you. Prove it.”

"Oh no you don’t. I am not falling for that one. You’ll take the phone and delete the evidence."

“It’s against the law you know, Thomas, to withhold evidence”.

“Are you going to turn me in if I do?”

“You better believe it. And it just might be a life sentence.”

“A life sentence...well, in that case, maybe I’d better be sure not delete the picture and take the consequences.” She began walking away and then saucily turned back to me. “Coming Jack? I think I see your parents up ahead.”

Sue’s parents, Dave and Carla, arrived the next day as expected. We spend our time behaving just like tourists. Somehow the museums, monuments other sites take on a fresh look when you are seeing them through the eyes of someone who doesn’t live here.

Christmas Eve was upon us before we realized it. Sue and her parents had gone over to her apartment to freshen up for the evening. The church that Sue and I have been attending had a Christmas Eve service like many churches do, and we planned to attend.

When I met Sue and her parents at the door, Sue looked like a vision. Her blond hair against the red coat that she was wearing was striking. She went into my outstretched arms and we hugged. She gave me a wonderful smile as we said hello to each other. I felt a brush against my pant leg and looked down at faithful Levi. “You, too, Buddy.”

The church looked beautiful with all of the poinsettias lining the front of the sanctuary. The service began as the choir led the congregation in the carol, O Holy Night. My heart was full as I stood there next to Sue and signed the words along with her. The hope, faith and joy expressed in the words of that carol became my prayer as I worshiped there together with Sue and our parents.

The first part of the service was a children’s program. Sue had agreed to do the interpreting for the program. She slipped out of the pew beside me to take her place up at the front. I turned my attention to the children in the program. The first group scheduled on the program was the youngest group, the four-year olds. The teacher ushered them onto the platform. The first little boy with carried a big cutout star that was wrapped in aluminum foil. I didn't recognize him, so I assumed his family was new to the church. The other four children that were in the class each carried a sign with a letter on it. The letters on the signs spelled out the word STAR. The little boy with the tousled dark-brown hair and dark eyes appeared to have a part that he was supposed to speak. He didn’t seem at all frightened, but rather seemed to be fascinated as he calmly looked out at the people out in the audience. After several moments of his silence, the teacher decided to prompt him in an effort to get him started. She gave him his first line. “This spells star."

The little boy apparently saw no reason to repeat what she had just said, so he replied, “You know.”

“We’ll tell you more about it,” she continued to prompt.

Not missing a beat, the little boy responded, ‘When we older grow.” The audience chuckled, but the little boy wasn’t finished quite yet. He chose to say his whole piece through this time. “This spells star you know. We’ll tell you more about it when we older grow.” He looked out into the audience directly at a woman who obviously was his mother. He had completed his mission that he had been given, and there was just one more question on his young mind. In a clear, strong voice he asked, “Mom, can we go home now so that Santa Claus can come?”

The pastor then spoke to us about the meaning of Christmas. He reminded us that the people of Jesus’ day were looking for a king to free them from the tyranny of Rome, but the Baby that was born that night wasn’t an earthly king that would rule over Israel and deliver them from Rome. He came as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, offering deliverance to all mankind. The service was concluded with the carol, Silent Night.

We were making out way out of the building after the service when I heard a cry of distress coming from the other side of the foyer. “I can’t find my son. Has anyone seen my little boy, Stevie?”

I signed to let Sue know what was happening. We both made our way over to the distraught mother who was the same woman who had been asked about Santa. Her little boy had wondered away and she had no idea where he could have gone. She kept repeating that he had been by her side just a few minutes earlier.

While Sue stayed with the mother, I recognized two of the ushers in the church who were aware I was FBI, and alerted them to the situation. hey both knew Stevie and had not seen him. I went back into the sanctuary preparing to sweep the building and even lock it down if we didn’t locate him in the next few minutes. I breathed a prayer of thanks and relief at what I saw when I reached the front of the church.

“Up here,” I called out. “He’s right up here.” Little Stevie was asleep in the front pew, blissfully unaware of all the commotion he had just caused. He must have become bored with all of the adult conversation going on around him and decided a nap was in order. The mother ran up the aisle to the front of the church and pulled her child close. Right on her heels was a man who promptly enfolded the two of them in his arms, looking like the weight of the world had just been lifted from his shoulders.

I loved hearing the banter between Jack and Sue at the airport, and about the Christmas Eve service, Ivory, but I am curious about Jack's reaction to finding the missing boy . . .

I'm really enjoying your story!! Great writing!!

Wonderful Ivory!!! Glad the kid is fine

Tere

Jack and Sue's teasing at the airport was priceless. And I think Sue should hold onto the photo just in case Jack gets a little bit out of hand.

Lindsy

You write the easy teasing and commraderie between Jack and Sue so well. And the little piece of drama at the end of the Christmas Eve program -- I love how swiftly Jack went into agent mode, even thinking about lock downs. he may be on an extended leave but he can't quite leave the agent behind, can he?

kav

PART THREE: CHRISTMAS MORNING

It was wonderful to wake to the smells of coffee and homemade cinnamon rolls rather than to the irritating buzz of my alarm clock. I jumped out of my bed, threw the quilt up over the mattress, and then sprinted to the bathroom for a quick shower and shave. Pulling on a sweat shirt and jeans, I left my room to head down the hall. The made-up bed in my guest room confirmed that my parents were both already up. I walked into my living room to find them kissing under the mistletoe that was hanging over the archway between the living room and kitchen. Not that Sam and Evelyn Hudson ever seemed to need a reason to kiss. My parents are very much in love with each other, even after almost forty years of marriage.

“Good morning, dear.”

“Good morning. It looks like I saw Mommy kissin’ Santa Claus,” I teased them.

My dad gave me a lop-sided grin and said, “Well, Santa is busy at the North Pole, so I am taking over for him.”

We sat at my table to enjoy a breakfast that included my mom’s wonderful rolls. I had just taken a bite when she asked, “Tell me Jack, what are your team mates doing for Christmas this year?”

I washed down the roll with my coffee. “Bobby decided to travel to Australia this year to visit his mom and step-dad. He harangued us for a week about everything Australian. I think he even thickened up his accent just for good measure. Lucy is visiting her mother in Atlanta. She was a little concerned about her grandmother Alice, but Alice insisted that she go since Lucy and she see each other all the time. Myles and his sister Anne are at the Cape. He said he was glad to have her along to help him deal with “Elizabeth and Philip” as they jokingly call his parents. He's Myles the second and her name is Sarah. Tara’s family decided to spend Christmas in Disneyworld this year. I don’t know who will have more fun, Tara, or her two nieces who are nine and eleven, but my bet is on Tara. D and Donna are with her family in Pittsburgh. They were planning to get in some skiing with Davey and Tonya if the slopes have snow.”

“It sounds like everyone really scattered this year. But the teammate I really want to know about it Sue."

“Sue? But you know where she is...right here in D.C.”

Mom put her hands on her hips. “Jackson Hudson, that is not what I meant, and you know it.”

I laughed and put my hands up in mock surrender. “Okay, okay. I know what you’re asking me, Mom. You’re wondering how serious it is with Sue. You know that she’s my best friend, and we spend more time together than a lot of couples I know. I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize that. I also don’t want to stand in the way of her career, but…well…I told her a few days ago that I love her. I plan to ask her to marry her, if she’ll have me. I called her dad last week to ask him for permission. I wasn’t sure how easy it would be to get him alone while he is here. I don’t know what it will mean to mean for her career or mine at the Bureau if we pursue a relationship. If only I could go into details about the bravery, resourcefulness, and intuition she constantly shows, you would be amazed. She’s a natural with people. I don’t want her to risk her career with a reprimand on her record that she broke the no fraternization rule. Some of the higher-ups take that rule very seriously, feeling that romantic relationships do impede judgment, particularly in the field. But, she is more important to me than any job. I know we...love each other. Now I just need to find out if she is willing to share her life with me.”

Mom gave me a hug. “You know your dad and I think the world of Sue. I already feel like she is my own daughter. I’m sorry if I was out of line to push, but you can be tight-lipped at times when it comes to talking about how you feel. You have seemed restless lately. I’m glad you are going to find out how she feels. Just think, I may be getting a daughter-in-law soon.”

“I hope so, Mom. It means a lot to me that you and dad are so supportive." I decided it was time to lighten things up. "You know, this is going to sound so like the 50’s, but Sue does like to cook and bake when she gets a chance. You should taste this ice cream dessert she makes, and her tuna noodle casserole. I bet she would like your recipe for rolls.”

“You mean you would like for her to have my recipe.”

“Guilty as charged for two reasons. One is that I would get to have your wonderful rolls more often and the second is that I know the recipe is only handed down in the family. The only kicker is I always have to pay for your rolls with extra runs. If she gets the recipe...I'll be constantly on the road.” I thought of other ways to use up that energy but kept them to myself.

My dad reached out to put a hand on my shoulder. “She is a great girl, son. I can see why you love her. Sometimes we have to take risks in this life, but then I am not telling you something you don’t already know.”

“I am not so sure about that, Dad,” I said. “I seem to have been afraid to take risks as far as Sue is concerned. “

“Sounds to me like you’re a man who feels it is time to take action.”

“Yeah, and I certainly have had a lot of reminders lately. It seems like everywhere I go these days I see couples together. I feel so complete when I am with Sue and miss her when she is not around. I want to take her in my arms and...um...er...be with her.” I felt my ears getting warm and quickly changed gears. “That little boy at the church last night reminded me of how much I would like to be a father one day. So did a little girl that is in the children’s reading group where Sue and I volunteer."

Dad gave me a hug. “I remember having the very same feelings you are describing when I was ready to ask you mother to marry me. By the way, you’ll never regret asking her father, Jack.”

Just then the doorbell rang, letting us know that Sue and her parents had arrived to spend Christmas day with us. I jumped up and almost spilled the coffee that I was holding. Mom and dad merely smiled at me while chuckling softly.

Ivory, I love Jack and Sue at the airport - I have always enjoyed their teasing of one another, and you caught them to a T!!!

I haven't missed the fact that the little missing boy was dark haired and dark eyed!! Is Jack thinking about a little boy he and Sue might have one day???

Joy

What a perfect family conversation. I love easy going Jack is with his parents and he seems to have shucked his turtle shell and is ready to move at a brisk pace. Please tell me he plans to propose this Christmas! (Oh and since Mr. and Mrs. H were kissing under the mistletoe I'm sure you can navigate Jack and Sue into the same general vicinity. )

kav

Lovely chapter Ivory!!!

Tere

Ivory, this story is making me feel all warm and fuzzy inside! One of my favorite moments in this post was when Jack nearly spilled his coffee in his haste to meet Sue at the door! Amazing how awkward we get when we're in love! Another thing I love is that you're writing this completely from Jack's perspective. The first-person aspect of it makes it feel so much more personal. Wonderful!

It's good to see Jack in love.

Like Regina, it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Lindsy

Christmas Morning, Continued...


We all gathered around the tree in my apartment with a glass of eggnog in hand. My dad read the Christmas story, and then we exchanged gifts.

Sue seemed delighted when she opened her gift from me. One of her friends, Jennifer, had recently clued me in about a store that she and her friends like to stop at when they have lunch together. I had followed up on her lead. While shopping there I found a little antique gold charm bracelet that had a charm shaped in the ASL hand sign for I love you. Sue turned to me after opening the bracelet and asked me to help her put it on. I fumbled for a moment, but managed to fasten the clasp. After I did, she delighted me by kissing me. It was the first time we ever kissed in front of anyone, well...except for the time Janice caught us in Hillary Kern’s office during the undercover case at Callahan and Merced. .

My Dad looked at us and smiled. “Hey, how about that. They didn’t even need the mistletoe that’s hanging over there.

Mom swatted my dad’s knee and said, “Oh Sam, don’t embarrass them.”

Sue’s dad chuckled. “Hey, I’m reminded of a great story to tell you about Sue.”

I was all ears as her father continued.

“Sue loved to try to find out what we getting her ahead of time. By the time she was in her teens, it was pretty hard to surprise her. Sue had mentioned that she would like an electric blanket for Christmas one year, so we ordered one from a local store. It was to be delivered a few days before Christmas. Carla and I were out when the delivery was made, but the box was left on our front porch. The packaging was clearly visible showing that it was an electric blanket. We thought at first that that we had managed to retrieve the box before Sue saw it. We were wrong, but her brother Steve saw that she saw it and told us. After Sue fell asleep that Christmas Eve, we took the blanket, wrapped it up and put it under her bed. Well, she opened her gifts the next morning, but did not receive a blanket. She tried to hide her puzzled look, but she didn’t quite succeed.”

“Yeah, I just couldn’t imagine what had happened to that box,” Sue added.

Finally, at bedtime that night, I announced that there was one gift left that hadn’t been opened. Sue was sent on a mission to retrieve her present from under her bed. The Christmas mystery was solved."

My dad chuckled. "Jack here loved to snoop as well."

“What a surprise.” Sue quipped.

“Jack had wanted new hockey skates the year he was eleven. He’d been playing on a boy’s league for a few years and was getting quite good. After we went to the sports store to buy the skates for him, we decided to take them over to Jack’s cousin’s house because we didn't want him to see them. It so happened that at the same time Jack’s cousin Alex wanted a chemistry set. Jack's uncle and aunt gave us Alex's present to keep for them."

I tapped Sue's arm. “Yeah, but Alex and I got wise to them. I happened to spot the unwrapped chemistry set in our garage and told Alex. He snooped at his place and saw a box of hockey skates. We put two and two together and decided that we were being set up."

“What did you do, switch the boxes back?” Sue asked.

I nodded toward Sue to clue her in that my dad was continuing. "That is exactly what Jack and Alex did, however, we had anticipated that they would do just that very thing. What they didn't know was that we had put the chemistry set in the box for the skates and the skates in the box for the chemistry set. The boys never checked inside those boxes. You should have seen Jack’s face when, despite all of his best strategizing, he still opened up a chemistry set that morning."

When Sue giggled, I said, “Hey, it was great practice for surveillance work. I learned to never assume." I placed my hand on her arm and felt the familiar warmth that always comes when I touch her. “I think our parents are having way to much fun at our expense. How about we take a walk through the park and give Levi some exercise."

I confess that I was glad when our parents told us to go on ahead saying that they would stay and get better acquainted.

[By the way, in case you were wondering, I use the quote from the challenge in the next post.]

I love that they're becoming more comfortable with their relationship in front of their parents. Very nice, homey scene, Ivory!!

Lovely chapter!!

Tere

Jack's gift for Sue sounds so lovely.

Wonderful, warm post.

Lindsy

I love this glimpse into what will soon be their extended family. And Jack's gift to Sue -- perfect and thoughtful.

kav

I can just see Jack as a little boy and Sue as a little girl, trying to get one over on their parents!! They both come by their tenacity honestly though, thus the parents managed most times to stay ahead of them!!! LOL

Love the bracelet Jack gave Sue!!!

Joy

Oh, Ivory, I finally was able to do some catching up. One of the things I love about your stories is how in character and how natural all the relationships flow. I truly feel like I'm in the room (or airport) with them. Whether its Jack and Sue or Jack and his mother, the depth of their love comes through.

Now, I can't wait for more.

I love how positive both families are and how open they are of spending the holidays together. It seems so often that the families of couples can't get along for some petty reason. I like how you portray the parents of our characters - it shows where they got the character traits we love so much!

I hope you all are having a great start to the New Year.


PART FIVE: THE PARK

The park where I took Sue and Levi is one of the larger parks in the area. It is centrally located between Sue’s apartment and mine so it has become a standard meeting place for us. There is a lovely fountain in the middle that shimmers beautifully when they have it turned on in the summer. I used to run in another park, but have been frequenting this one ever since I had a “chance encounter” with Sue there that in truth was a planned one. It was at that very park that Sue skated again for the first time since her friend Judy died in that park. It was also there that Sue met with me with tears in her eyes the night after Tony Campono showed his true colors.

It was about one in the afternoon and the park was beginning to fill with families trying out their new Christmas gifts. One father and son appeared to be experimenting with a new model plane over in the grassy field. We moved over to give a clear path to accommodate a family that included a youngster who was learning how to steer a shiny new pink bike that was complete with training wheels. The little girl smiled proudly at us as she passed by.

We sat down together on one of the benches near the fountain. A young boy and girl who appeared to be brother and sister passed by speaking loud enough for me to hear. The boy was clutching a package of white marshmallows. I glanced at Sue and noted that she was also following their conversation.

“It is not!” the little girl called out.

“Is too,” the older brother countered back.

“Not.”

“Look, I’m not going to argue with you – you’re all of five, right?”

Golden curls bounced as she nodded her affirmation while counting on her stubby fingers. “Five!”

“Yeah, well I’m ten,” her brother drew himself up to his full height, bouncing on the balls of his feet to make it seem that he was even taller. “That’s twice as old as you are and I’m telling you that this…” he dangled up the bag of miniature marshmallows, “…is snowman poop.” He paused for effect, long enough for the cherubically bowed mouth to start trembling. If he had his calculations right – and he usually did – he had all of about a minute to drive his message home. “I’m your big brother…I wouldn’t lie to you, would I?”

She frowned doubtfully, her eyes swimming in a pool of tears and for a split second it looked like he felt a pang of guilt. It seemed to vanish as quickly as it had come. “You want proof? Okay – how about this? Ever see Mom and Dad put these things in their hot chocolate?”

She shook her head vehemently as her thumb popped into her mouth.

“That’s because they know better than to ingest snowman poop.”

“They thaid it was too thweet…like me,” she whispered around her thumb and then started sucking vigorously, eyes wide.

“Yeah, well…” he smirked with the air of the know-it-all he liked to think he was. “We ever have them in the house in the summer?” He didn’t wait for her reply. “Nope. Not in the spring and not in the fall either. We get real marshmallows then. That’s because there aren’t any snowmen around so…” he opened the bag and shook a generous portion into her hot chocolate, “…the only time you can get snowman poop is in the winter. Enjoy!” He tossed the bag at her and sauntered away whistling, plugging his ears.

“Mooommmmmeeeee!” The little girl took off as fast as her little legs could carry her to her mother who was sitting on a nearby bench.

I looked at Sue and we both burst out laughing. It was the best feeling in the world to hold her close to me as she giggled. I could never grow tired of that. Our laughter gentled into an embrace. As I held her the only thing that came to mind was how much I loved...how much I needed... this amazing woman who was willing to love me right back. I leaned close to her and looked deep into her hazel eyes. “Oh, Sue. That is what I want so much for us...marriage, children...”

“So do I, Jack.”

I gently kissed her and she kissed me back. Not wanting to put on a show for young boys and their sisters, we left the park soon afterward. If it were not for the fact that we were playing host to both sets of parents, I would have taken her in search of some privacy.

Sue and I entered the apartment expecting to find our parents either in the living room or the kitchen. What we found, however, was a note on the kitchen table left there by our parents. I took the note and held it out so that Sue could read along. It was written in my mother’s hand.

"Dear Sue and Jack,
We all decided to take the car that Sue’s parents rented and go for a drive. We will take care of entertaining ourselves for the rest of the day. We have taken the ham from your fridge, Jack, and are going over to use your kitchen, Sue. We’ll see you both there at seven tonight for dinner. Merry Christmas."

Beautiful Ivory, those kids are cute!

Tere

Wonderful!

Kim

Talk about good timing!! Now they have all the privacy they need for some wonderfully fuzzy, meaningful moments before they meet with the parents at 7! Wonderful use of the prompt!



Can't wait for the next part!!

Nothing like a walk in the park...

Lindsy

Alone time - perfect!!!

Joy

What a great way to work in the little scene in green. I was wondering how you planned to do that. I love the shared laughter. Beautiful.

This is turning into the perfect Christmas and what wonderful memories they will have of it to share with their own children some day. And hooray for understanding parents! Now Jack and Sue can put a show on for us!

kav

Thank you everyone. Sue and Jack are having such a wonderful Christmas that I just don't have the heart to bring in any angst.


PART SIX: A PARTNER FOR LIFE

Sue looked up at me, her face full of concern. “Jack, I hope our parents don’t feel like we don’t want them around. It’s wonderful that they are giving us some privacy, but...”

I shook my head. “I’m pretty sure I know why they left us alone.”

“You are?”.

“Yeah. Come and sit down with me.” We walked over to the couch and sat down together. I took her hand in mine. “Sue, I have something important to talk to you about...”

Just then a knock came at the door. I signed door to Sue as I shook my head in disbelief. “Of all the blasted timing!!” The knock came again and I begrudgingly got up to answer it. Sue followed right behind me.

I opened the door to see my elderly neighbor Lucille Cravits standing there. I invited her to step in, hoping my irritation was not showing too much. Mrs. Cravits was a kind soul who was always baking cookies for me.

“I am so sorry to disturb you on Christmas day, but I am beside myself, don’t you know. My cat, Precious, got away from me and is outside somewhere. I can’t find her.” Mrs Cravits wrung her withered hands.

“Which way do you think she went?” I asked.

“I think she went out the back way.”

“We’ll come with you and see if we can help you find her.” I turned to look at Sue and saw a look in her eyes that I couldn’t quite decipher, but it warmed my heart. .

Levi was not too happy about having to stay behind in the apartment, but we doubted that Precious would appreciate his presence in the back yard, even if he was Wonderdog. Mrs. Cravits, Sue and I made our way out to the back yard. Mrs. Cravits had her kitty tote with her all prepared to place the perpetrator in custody once we caught up with her.

There is a grassy area in back of my apartment that I share with other people in my building. In the summer, there are even some picnic tables set up out there along with a barbeque grill. The landlord also maintains a few flowerbeds which were now planted with winter pansies. The sun was starting to set and the temperature was already dropping from what it was earlier on when we were in the park. I hoped we wouldn’t have to be out there long. My hopes were raised when in a corner by the storage shed sat the elusive Precious.

“Precious you come here now and stop causing so much trouble.” Mrs. Kravits crooned.

While Mrs. Kravits approached her cat, Sue and I approached from each side, hoping to block any escape plans that Precious might try to implement. I was relieved when the cat held her ground and allowed my neighbor to scoop her up and put her in the pink and white kitty carrier.

“Precious, you naughty kitty. Causing all this trouble. What am I going to do with you?” Mrs. Kravits admonished her pet. She then looked up at us with tears in her eyes. “Thank you, Jack, and you, too, my dear. I don’t know how she managed to get out. I was afraid she might run around to the street. She’s never been out before. My son lives near, but I was afraid he wouldn’t get here in time.”

“You welcome, Mrs. Kavits. I am glad we found her.”

As we made our way back to the building, I looked at Sue and wanted nothing more than to be get back to where we were before we were interrupted. I confess I didn't want to, but I looked at my neighbor and asked, “Would you like to join us for some coffee and cookies, Mrs. Kravits?”

“No, thank you kindly though. I am going to my son’s for dinner in an hour.” I was way past relieved to hear that.

We turned to go in and were about half way inside when we were hit with a cold spray of water. By the time we got to the door we all were soaked. I couldn't believe that the landlord would have the sprinkler system on at that time of year. The only thing I could figure was that he didn’t want it to freeze.

We walked to my neighbor's door, dripping water along the way as we went. Before she went in, Mrs. Kravits looked up at us with a twinkle in her eyes. “It’s good to see you again, Sue. I am pleased to see that you and Jack are keeping company.” She grinned at us. “If you don’t mind an old woman saying so, you two make a lovely couple.”

We no sooner got back into the apartment from our rescue mission when my Sue spontaneously threw her arms around me and kissed me soundly.

“What was that for, not that I mind.”

“For being the wonderful, caring man that you are. Not every guy would help his elderly neighbor like that.”

“Yeah...well...now that I have you in my arms I don’t want to think about cats or neighbors or anything else.” I eased my hand behind her head for support as our next kiss deepened. When I gentled the kiss, I added, "However, you and I are soaked to the skin and need to think about getting into something dry."

My first thought upon meeting Mrs. Cravits was GLADYS Cravits on "Bewitched!" Very sweet of Jack to help his neighbor, and then they got caught in the sprinkler for their trouble! You realize, of course, that now Tina will be clamoring for a shower scene . . .

I do love angst-free stories . . .

Good Jack!!
Tere

Sir Jack strikes again!

This is wonderful, Ivory.

Kim

What a sweetheart!!!

If Sue is cold, I just know that Jack can find a way to warm her up! And I think he has something he wants to say to Sue...something that doesn't have anything to do with cats.

kav

I swear, Regina. Sometimes you and I are of one mind. I was thinking the exact same thing, but at least she wasn't the nosy neighbor always trying to peek in on them.

Then again... what kind of view does THIS Mrs. Kravitz have of Jack's apartment?



Lindsy