"Joe, that witness was lying," Catherine stated as she impatiently waited at the crosswalk. She stomped her feet in the snow, trying to bring warmth to them. She shivered as a wayward snowflake landed on her forehead. She pulled her coat tighter around her body, and looked up at the gathering clouds.
"Do you have proof of that, Radcliffe? That's a pretty big accusation," Joe stated, nudging Catherine back to the conversation.
The light changed and Catherine angrily started across the street. The sound of a car grabbed Joe's attention.
It's not going to stop in time.
"CATHY, WATCH OUT!!" Joe shouted, but in his ears it sounded like it was drawn out. Everything seemed to be in slow motion. He saw the car start to slide on the slick packed snow as the driver hit the brakes. Joe heard the tires grind, trying to gain traction as it slid through the red light. The car then went into a spin as it plowed into the people in the crosswalk. Joe stood in shock and was not able to move. The screams grabbed his attention, and he began to process the situation in his mind.
The car had stopped, and the driver got out. The driver, who was 17 but looked like he could pass for a 13-year-old, was beside himself. With his hands on his head, complete fear on his face, and tears streaming down his face, he began screaming,
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it!"
Joe ran over to Catherine. "Cathy, are you ok?"
She was unconscious, with a big gash on her forehead. The twisted way her left arm and right leg were positioned made Joe feel sick to his stomach. Joe checked her pulse. Steady and strong, and she's breathing. Joe sighed with relief. He jumped up to check on the other five people. The first four were beat up and sore, but ok.
"Mommy, Mommy, wake up."
Joe turned his head and saw a girl no older than eight years old trying to wake her mother. At her side was a little boy about three years old, sucking his thumb. He was in shock.
Joe ran over to the kids. "Are you ok?" he asked them.
Both kids nodded.
"Mommy is hurt. She pushed us out of the way," the girl replied through her tears.
Joe turned to the woman. Her breathing was labored; she was breathing, but barely.
"I'll stay with you until the police arrive," Joe assured the children.
Sirens were heard in the distance. The driver, hearing the sirens, panicked. Joe saw him jump into his car and start it.
"GRAB HIS PLATE NUMBER!" Joe yelled to the crowd as he reached under his coat for his trusty pen in his shirt pocket. He managed to get the first two digits written on his hand before the driver sped off.
The medics arrived shortly after.
The driver will have to wait, Joe thought as he ran over to the EMTs.
"That lady over there needs attention first. She's the most injured," he stated as he led them to the mother of the still-crying girl.
Joe walked over to the children. "Have you ever sat in a real police car?"
The little boy's eyes opened wide and he shook his head.
"See that officer over there?" Joe pointed.
Both children nodded.
"He's a good friend of mine. I'm sure he will let you sit in his car."
Joe felt the little boy put his cold and sticky hand in his own. The girl took his other hand. He led the children over to the cop furthest away from their mother.
"These kiddos want to sit in your car."
The officer looked at the children. "Absolutely. It's freezing out here, and it's nice and warm inside," he said as he opened the front door of his cruiser. "OK, who are they with?" he asked as he closed the car door.
Joe looked into the car, where the kids were fascinated with the gadgets. "That's their mother over there," Joe whispered as he nodded to the lady the paramedics were now administering CPR to.
The officer nodded in understanding. His face softened as he looked at the two children. "Gotcha. I'll call Child Protective Services. We'll find out who they are," he said.
"Thank you, James."
Joe opened the door. "This is Officer James. He will take good care of you."
"Hey, kids, you want a teddy bear?" Joe heard the cop say as he started to walk back to Cathy. He knew most cops kept stuffed animals in their cruisers for times like these.
Joe was on his way back to Catherine when a big and burly guy approached him.
"Hey, you. You want the driver's plate number? I got it," he bellowed.
Joe smiled and grabbed the piece of paper and looked at it. It's the number, all right.
"Thank you so much. This will help find and charge the driver."
"Glad I could help."
Their attention was directed to the covered body being rolled towards them.
"The mother?" Joe asked the EMT as they walked past. The EMT only nodded.
The man and Joe stood and watched silently as they placed the stretcher into the ambulance. "Please find that creep. For those kids' sake," the man said, nodding toward the two children who were now hugging their new bears, and oblivious that their mother was dead.
"We will," Joe said as he squeezed the man's shoulder.
Joe turned his head in time to see Catherine being loaded into the ambulance. "What hospital are you taking her to?" Joe yelled, running to the ambulance.
"Saint Vincent's. It's the closest," the EMT said as the door slammed shut and they sped away with the sirens blaring.
Joe was about to grab a cab but a police investigator walked up. "Did you see anything?"
"Yes, oh, and here's the driver's plate number."
"This is excellent. We can get him for hit and run, and charge him with murder. Of course, you will most likely testify."
"Yes, of course. Whatever it takes to bring him to justice," Joe said sadly. A part of him was wanting to see justice served, but another side of him could only see the distraught face of the young man. "You know, I'm pretty sure it wasn't premeditated. I think the driver panicked," Joe stated, after giving his eye witness account.
The investigator nodded. "That's how it usually is. Thank you for your cooperation."
Joe nodded and turned to find a cab.
**********
"I'm Joe Maxwell and I'm here to see Catherine Chandler," Joe said, wishing he had a rubber band to fidget with.
The receptionist typed as two men walked past Joe.
"What's the name again?" she asked.
"Catherine Chandler," Joe replied.
One of the men that passed snapped his head up at Catherine's name. He held his hand up to his friend who was speaking to him.
"Are you family?" the receptionist asked.
Joe shook his head. "No. Just a friend."
"I'm sorry, sir. Family only are allowed in the ICU."
ICU?? It's more serious than I thought.
Joe felt a hand on his shoulder.
"Thank you, Judy. He's with me," the doctor said. He turned to Joe. "Good to see you again, Joe." Peter smiled.
"Wish it was on better terms," he replied sadly.
Joe then noticed the second man. Peter noticed the confused look on Joe's face. "This is an old colleague and my dearest friend. Joe, meet Jacob Wells."
"Oh, you're a doctor too? Where is your practice?" Joe asked as he shook the older man's hand.
"Jacob here doesn't have a practice. He left decades ago, but he treats those that can't afford to pay," Peter quickly replied, hoping to deter him from any unanswerable questions.
"You doctor the homeless," Joe replied, understanding.
"Something like that." Jacob chuckled softly.
"That's very admirable of you. I'm sure your patients appreciate that."
Jacob could hear the sincerity and respect in Joe's voice.
"I'm sorry to interrupt you, but Jacob and I were heading up to see Catherine. You can join us if you like."
"Yeah, that would be great. Thank you so much."
As they entered the room, they found Catherine asleep.
"Child, what have you done to yourself this time?" Peter said quietly as he pulled her medical charts. He started tsking and began reading out loud.
"Left femur bone broken in two places
One break in left tibia
Two breaks in left fibula
Two breaks in right humerus
One break in right ulna
Two breaks in right radius
Pilot fracture right leg
Ribs 2, 5, 6 and 7 broken."
Peter took a deep breath and looked at Father before whispering, "Cerebral edema."
Father's face went pale.
"What does that mean in English? Joe smirked, trying to lighten the mood.
"That means her left leg is broken two places above the knee. And three places in her lower left leg. Her right upper arm above the elbow is broken in two places, while she has three breaks below her elbow. She also has a fracture in her right ankle. To top it off, four broken ribs. Worst is that she has swelling on the brain," Peter patiently explained.
"Her brain?" Joe's face turned white as he fell into a chair.
"She's currently in a medically induced coma," Peter said sadly.
"She's going to be ok. Right?" Joe said as his eyes teared up.
Jacob sat down and placed his hand on Joe's shoulder.
"Possibly, but her recovery will be long, and she will need her friends," Peter said quietly.
Joe felt Jacob's hand on his shoulder, and memories of his father comforting him the same way came flooding back. Joe could feel that Jacob was a fatherly man.
He shook his head, trying to think. "I have Jenny's number, I'll let her get the word out," Joe said, sniffling.
"I'll let the com…. er, my patients know," Jacob quickly said.
"Wait… how do your patients know Cathy? Also, how does she know you?" Joe questioned Jacob.
Jacob sighed. "It's a long story, and I currently don't have time to tell it," Jacob said with a bit of nervousness.
Joe narrowed his eyebrows and opened his mouth to say something when he glanced at the clock. His eyes went wide. "OH, NO!! I have to go. I'm due in court in two hours."
Jacob took a ragged and relieved breath.
Joe stood up and walked over to Peter. "Thank you. I know you're going to do everything you can to bring her back to us," Joe said as he quickly wiped a tear away. Joe shook Peter's hand before he hurried out to get to the courthouse.
**********
"Joe Maxwell," Joe yelled into the phone. "What? That's excellent news!! I'll be right there."
"Hey, Edie!!" he yelled as he hurried over to her desk. The huge smile on his face showed it wasn't bad news. "The swelling went down. They're moving her out of the ICU. She's still in a drug-induced coma, and will still need surgery, but it looks like she's over the worst."
Edie jumped up and hugged Joe. She couldn't help the tears. "I'm so happy! I've been worried about her."
"Me, too," Joe said as he returned the hug. "As soon as I get her room number, I'll let you know."
"You better," she shouted at his disappearing figure.
**********
"Cathy, can you hear me?" Jenny whispered as she gently brushed a wayward strand of hair off Catherine's forehead. She then pulled a chair as close to Catherine's bed as she could. "I called Nancy and told her about your accident. She told me to tell you she is working it out so she can move in with you for a few weeks when you're released. Cathy, we are all so worried about you. You HAVE to get better."
Jenny suddenly felt a presence, and she jerked her head up and looked toward the door.
Strange, no one is there.
It was as though she was being watched. It wasn't a feeling of foreboding, and it didn't frighten her. She was just curious who could be watching her. She carefully let go of Catherine's hand and walked to the door.
Everything was normal; nurses at the desk were working and chatting. Nothing odd. Nothing strange. She shook her head and turned to return to Catherine. Her breath hitched at the sight of a red rose placed in Catherine's hand.
She sat back down and stared at the rose without touching it. The feeling of being watched was gone.
"Looks like you have a secret admirer," Jenny teased gently. She took a long look at her friend. "You know EXACTLY who brought this, don't you? I sure hope one day you will trust me enough to tell me."
**********
The next morning, Joe was walking to a courtroom when a little girl ran up and hugged him.
A woman walked up with a little boy in tow. "I'm so sorry, sir. Missy, let go," she said as she tried to pry the little girl off of Joe.
"He's the nice man that took us to the police car," the girl tried to explain to the lady.
"It's ok," Joe said as he knelt down. "How are you?" he asked her.
"My mommy died. Me and Adam are going to be in foster care."
Joe tried to swallow the knot in his throat and stood up. "They're going into the system?" he asked the woman.
"Unfortunately, yes. They don't have any other family. The judge just declared them both wards of the state."
Joe looked at the little faces of the children. The blue-eyed girl had her strawberry blonde curls in pigtails. Adam's brown eyes were hidden by a mop of red hair. Joe couldn't look past his adorable freckles and dimples.
"Come along, children. Your foster parents are waiting."
The children hugged Joe goodbye and walked away.
Joe stood and watched them as they disappeared out the door.
**********
"Jacob, I wasn't expecting to see you here," Joe said as he entered Catherine's room. He froze at the sight of another person with Jacob.
"Joe Maxwell, meet Rebecca."
Joe's heart skipped a beat.
Where have I seen her before? She looks so familiar.
"Pleasure to meet you, Rebecca," he said as he held his hand out.
"Likewise." Rebecca blushed as she shook his hand.
"How is Cathy today?" he asked, pretending not to notice the blush on the lady's face.
"The swelling is still decreasing. Peter thinks it will be safe to do surgery soon." Jacob smiled.
"That's wonderful news," Joe said as he sat in the chair next to Catherine's bed and gently took her hand.
"Cathy, if only you could give me some advice right now. I must be out of my mind to even be considering…" Joe trailed off, letting go of Catherine's hand, and slouched in the chair.
Jacob noticed the turmoil on the young man's face, and sat down next to him. "Son, what's bothering you?" Father asked gently.
"You'll think I'm crazy."
"Of course I wouldn't."
"I think I'll be getting back. I have some work to do," Rebecca whispered to Jacob.
"Very well. Do you need help finding your way home?"
"I remember the way." She turned to Joe. "It was nice meeting you, Joe."
"Nice to meet you as well, Rebecca."
She blushed and hurriedly left the room.
Joe waited a few minutes before speaking. "Have you ever met someone that you KNEW needed help, but didn't know how to help?"
Father instantly thought of Vincent and all the hurt he had been through in his life.
"Yes. Yes, I do," Jacob answered quietly.
"I just don't know what to do."
"Perhaps if you talk about it, you can find the answer you're looking for."
Joe nodded. He opened his mouth to speak when he saw four little faces peek into the room.
Jacob followed the direction Joe was looking. "Geoffrey, Samantha, Eric and Zach, may I ask what you're doing here?"
"We brought these for Catherine," Samantha said sheepishly as they each held out a handful of paper flowers.
"We wanted to bring her flowers, but we didn't have the money to buy any," Eric said.
"It was my idea to make flowers out of paper," Geoffrey announced proudly.
Joe grinned at the sweet gesture of these children.
"Children, meet Joe. He's a friend of Catherine's."
The children politely said hello.
Joe was intrigued by these children.
Their clothes are odd, and why aren't they in school?
Jacob must've read Joe's mind. "You're supposed to be in class." Jacob sternly looked at the children.
"I'm sorry, Father. We did ask permission to visit. We were told we could, as long as we didn't stay long. We even brought notes from the other children," Samantha quickly exclaimed as she handed the notes to Jacob.
Jacob cringed at his tunnel name.
I must remind them to not call me that around strangers when I get back.
Father??? Joe was confused by this term. Surely these aren't his children. Grandchildren perhaps, but why call him Father?
"I'll make sure Catherine gets these the second she wakes. Until then, you children have lessons."
"Yes, Fa…" Samantha froze at the disapproving look on Jacob's face.
Zach, seeing the look, grabbed Geoffrey and Samantha and pulled them toward the door. Eric quickly followed behind. "Nice to meet you, Joe," he said before they left the room.
"Wow, Samantha! You messed up big," Zach said accusingly once they were a distance away.
"I just forgot," Samantha whimpered as a tear slid down her cheek.
Eric put his hand on her shoulder. "Maybe Father won't be too mad," he said encouragingly as they hurried back to the tunnels.
**********
"Sweet kids. Are they yours?" Joe curiously asked.
Jacob let out a sigh. "Sort of. I'm a father figure to many. They gave me the nickname Father years ago. How about you, Joe? Are your parents around?" Jacob asked, hoping to divert the questions he wouldn't be able to answer.
"My dad died when I was a kid. He was a cop and was shot."
"That must've been painful, and so young, as well."
"How did you become a father figure? Was it a difficult decision?" Joe asked.
Before Jacob could answer, Joe jumped up and started pacing. "I mean, what if I did take in the children? Would I be a good enough dad? How will I juggle work and parenting? What if I mess their lives up more than they are already? What if we can't make it work? Do I give them back? What if a family member claims them, and I've gotten attached? Would I have time to dedicate to them? Would I pass the home study? Do I make enough to financially support two children? What about school? " Joe stopped and just stared out the window.
"I can't get those children out of my head. I don't know what to do," Joe whispered softly, and he rested his head against the window. "They just lost their mother and only family member in that accident. They're wards of the state."
Jacob took a deep breath and stood up. He walked over and placed his hand on Joe's shoulder. "Every good parent worries about what kind of parent they will be. When my son, Vincent, was placed in my arms for the first time, I had the same questions you're asking yourself. I worried so much about failing him, and not giving him what he needs. All I can say is, yes, you will fail them at times. Yes, it will be one of the hardest jobs you'll ever have. You will never stop worrying about them, or wanting to protect them. They will disappoint you and let you down, just as often as you disappoint and let them down. The secret is love. Forgiveness and love go a long way. The excitement on their faces as they first learn to read, hearing their little sighs as they fall asleep, their wide-eyed wonder with the world around them, and the love they give will be worth everything. What does your heart tell you to do?"
"My heart tells me to adopt those kids."
"Follow your heart, Joe. It won't lead you astray."
"I'll need help, and I don't have anyone," Joe said, in shock at what he had admitted.
Father was silent a long time before he spoke up. "You're a good man, Joseph. I will help as much as I can," Jacob said as he gently squeezed the younger man's shoulder.
"You called me Joseph. Last person who called me that was my father." Joe smiled before continuing. "You reminded me of him the moment I met you."
"I will take that as a great compliment. My offer will always stand. If you need assistance, let me know. Peter knows how to get hold of me."
Without thinking, Joe wrapped his arms around Jacob.
It shocked the older man at first, but he found himself returning the hug. "I must be going. There are four children that I need to make sure went straight to class," Jacob said after a few long moments.
Joe laughed softly as he let go. "I need to go, as well. I need to get the ball rolling on this adoption stuff."
**********
It was early afternoon when Isaac and Edie quietly walked into the hospital room hand in hand. "Hey, Cath. You won't believe this, but we're getting married!" she said as she held her ring up. Isaac reached out to take Catherine's hand.
"Isaac and I have discussed it, and you HAVE to be my maid of honor. Which means we can't get married until you're better." Edie leaned closer to Catherine's ear and whispered, "You better not make me wait long. We need you."
**********
Later that evening, Jenny sighed as she walked into the darkened room. The light above Catherine's bed was on, and the machines glowed in the dark. The soft whirrs and beeps were almost calming. The digital clock on the wall clicked over to 10 o'clock. It looked and seemed much later.
"Where were we?" she said as she pulled out the book she'd been reading to her friend every night. She'd hoped to catch Catherine's admirer, but she hadn't felt his presence since that first night.
She'd just finished the next chapter when she felt a cold chill run through her.
He's here!!
Without missing a beat, she slowly rubbed her neck as though she needed a stretch. She didn't want to give him the slightest idea she knew he was there. "I'll be back. I'm going to grab a cup of coffee," she said, a little louder than necessary. She stood up, stretched,, and walked to the door. That's when she caught movement out of the corner of her eye.
"Caught you!!" she said as she spun around.
The words startled Vincent, and he started to head to the window. He was thankful that his hood was up.
"Oh, no, you don't. Not until I find out who you are, and why Cathy is so secretive of you. Vincent."
"You know my name?" Vincent whispered without turning toward her.
"It wasn't hard to figure out. The books with your inscription and the roses with notes. Every woman in the world would dream of being treated as well as you treat Catherine." Jenny sighed. She stepped closer to Vincent, and she could see him straightening up.
Tread with care, girl. We don't want him to flee.
"Look, I know you're... unique. I've seen you in my dreams for quite a while now. I just wanted Cathy to trust me. I have had these dreams of tunnels and pipes for a long time now. It doesn't make sense," she said quietly, as if her words would make him run.
Jenny walked over and gently pulled his hood down. He stiffened at the motion.
"Ah, there you are. You're not exactly what I pictured. You are much better." She winked and smiled at him.
Vincent was in shock.
How can this be? She's not frightened, and she had dreams of me? And the tunnels? She KNEW!!
He could only stare at Jenny in shock. His thoughts and emotions were in turmoil. They stood staring at each other for what felt like hours. He studied her a long moment before speaking. "Meet me at the carousel in the park. I'm going to show you Catherine's other world." He then pulled his hood up and disappeared into the night.
Jenny put her book back into the bag, and looked at Catherine. "I'm going to strangle you when you wake up. You SHOULD'VE told me." She laughed as she very gently hit her arm, being careful not to nudge her or her IV. She then kissed Catherine on her forehead. "I'll see you tomorrow night."
**********
"Ah, Joe. By the look on your face, may I assume things are going well?" Jacob asked the second Joe walked into the hospital room.
Joe walked over and sat down next to Jacob. "Better than ok. I have some classes to take, and I passed the home study with flying colors. Also, with my job at the DA’s office, I don't have to do a background check. The kids will be dropped off on Sunday. Transfer orders take a couple days. The caseworker I talked to thinks a nanny would be best, and I have until Monday to hire one. Where am I going to find a trustworthy and dependable nanny in three days?"
"That's wonderful news. As for the nanny, if you trust me, I'm sure I can find someone for you."
"Are you serious? That would be great. Thanks." Joe grinned at Jacob from ear to ear.
"I'll ask around, and whomever I find, I'll send to your apartment on Sunday, if that's all right."
"You are amazing. Thank you." Joe wrote down his address and handed it to Jacob.
Jacob took the address and stuck it in his top pocket.
**********
At four o'clock on Sunday evening, Rebecca stood outside Joe's door. She took a deep breath. She was thrilled with the idea of this job. She always preferred staying Below, but Joe seemed to be a nice man, and it wasn't hard to volunteer when Father brought it up to the community. She knew that Joe was Catherine's friend. Helping him was the same as helping her. Besides, the money would come in handy for the community.
She had her schedule memorized. Be at the apartment by six, fix breakfast for Joe and the children, help the children get dressed, take Missy to school, drop Adam off at preschool, run whatever errands Joe wrote out for her, pick Adam up from school at 11:45, fix lunch, do some light cleaning, do laundry, pick up Missy from school at three, help with homework, fix dinner, and then head home.
It seemed like a full day, but she was ready. Today was just a meeting. The real work would begin tomorrow morning.
Rebecca took another breath and knocked.
"Rebecca, you're here. Good," Joe said as he ushered her in.
Rebecca smiled at the two children peeking around the corner.
"MOMMY!" Adam screamed as he ran to Rebecca.
Rebecca quickly brushed off being mistaken for his mother, and gently picked up the little boy. "I'm Rebecca. You must be Adam."
Melissa stepped forward. Rebecca couldn't help but notice the tears streaming down her face. "You look exactly like mommy." She sobbed.
Joe looked at Rebecca apologetically. "Maybe this wasn't such a great idea," Joe said.
Rebecca looked at the little girl.
"My mommy's name was Ruth."
Rebecca felt her face go pale, and her legs went weak. Her heart was beating out of her chest. "Did you say Ruth?"
The girl nodded.
Rebecca felt faint and needed to get home. She set the boy down, and ran out the door.
"REBECCA, WAIT!!"
That was the last thing she heard as the elevator door closed.
**********
Rebecca managed to find her way back to her home. The tears flowed like rain. Once she made it to the living chambers, she crumpled to the ground. That's where Father found her a few minutes later.
"Rebecca?" Father asked gently as he helped her up. "What's wrong? Did Joe mistreat you?" Father asked worriedly.
Rebecca shook her head. "Those children? They are Ruth's children."
Father almost fell. "Are you certain?"
"The children thought I was their mother. Forgive me, Father, but I need some time alone."
"Yes, yes, of course. But I am here if you need me."
Rebecca gave Father a hug and slowly walked away.
She found herself wandering the tunnels. A ghost memory of her and Ruth chasing each other down this tunnel came flooding back, their blonde curls bobbing as they ran away laughing. Rebecca shook off the memory and kept walking. She found herself in her childhood chamber.
For a brief moment, she saw two little girls dressed up in old moth-eaten formal dresses and having a tea party. The matching rag dolls that Mary had made were sitting in chairs next to them. The giggling and laughing echoed in her head as the ghostly vision vanished. She shivered in the silent and dark chamber.
Rebecca eventually found herself at the carousel in the park. She sat down and stared at the darkened carousel for hours. She never even noticed the sun had set. A cold wind whipped through her coat.
"Rebecca? It's cold," Vincent softly said as he removed his cloak and draped it over Rebecca. "Father told me about Ruth. I am sorry," he said gently as he lowered himself onto the bench. "You girls were inseparable. Where she went, you went."
"Vincent, it's strange. By the time we were eight, I knew my life would be below and hers would be here. I loved helping with the Winterfest candles. The year I twisted my knee was my first year delivering candles. While I preferred to make candles, Ruth couldn't wait to go above to deliver them. As I spent more and more time below, she was spending more and more time above. I remember shortly after our eighteenth birthday, I went back to our chamber to find her gone. I ran after her, and caught up with her right here. We sat on this bench and had a long talk. She said she was getting married, and had to leave. She claimed she was going out West. That was the last time I saw her."
"I remember. You cried for weeks. You two were so close... What are you going to do about Joe?"
"I need to apologize. It's only seven o'clock, I'll go now. I'm sure he's wondering what he's going to do about the children in the morning." She stood up, and Vincent stood as well. "Thank you for always being my brother." She gave him a long hug before giving his cloak back, and then she headed to Joe's.
**********
"Rebecca, I'm sorry if the children upset you," Joe said, noticing her red, swollen eyes. She had been crying for quite a while.
"It's ok, Mr. Maxwell. I do need to talk to you. May I come in?"
"Of course, and please call me Joe." Joe opened the door wider and allowed her to enter. They both sat on the couch.
"Where are the children?" Rebecca asked, looking around.
"I tucked them into bed already. Can you explain what happened earlier? Do I need to hire a new nanny?" Joe asked with his arms crossed.
"No, I gave my word I'd be your nanny, and I will uphold my end. It just hit me hard. You see, their mother, Ruth, she is... was my twin sister." Rebecca cast her eyes down and took a deep breath before saying, "My IDENTICAL twin sister. We lost contact years ago."
Joe stood up and started to pace. "What now? Do you plan on taking them away from me? If so, YOU WILL LOSE THIS FIGHT!" Joe angrily glared at Rebecca. "I LOVE THOSE KIDS, AND YOU'RE NEVER GOING TO GET THEM. I DON'T CARE IF YOU ARE THEIR AUNT!"
"Our aunt?" a small voice piped up.
Joe spun around to find both children standing in the doorway. He instantly calmed down and motioned for the children to sit beside Rebecca.
Rebecca sat Adam on her lap and draped an arm around Missy. "Your mother was my twin sister. We're family. I lost track of her years ago."
"Are we going to live with you now?" Missy asked.
Rebecca looked at Joe. His looks darkened and she could tell he was getting angry again. She looked back at Missy before continuing. "Missy, you and your brother have had more changes recently than what any child should." She looked at Joe, because she wanted to make sure he heard. "No, I will not take you away. Mr. Maxwell will be good for you both. I just get to come over every day and help out. It's a perfect arrangement, if you ask me. You get me to play with, and Mr. Maxwell for the hard parenting stuff. We're a team and we will work together." Rebecca grinned at Joe.
Joe, sighing with relief, returned the smile. "Again, please call me Joe."
Missy jumped off the couch and ran to the bedroom. She was gone for only a moment, when she came back with her hands behind her back. "Mommy talked about you all the time. She used to tell us stories. She even gave me this." Missy pulled one arm out from behind her back. In her hand was Ruth's rag doll.
Rebecca gently cradled the doll for a moment.
"My full name is Melissa Rebecca Stoney. My Mommy always called me Becca or Becky. Daddy always called me Missy. Oh...here." Missy handed her a photo album she was also hiding behind her back. Then she climbed into Rebecca's lap, joining her brother, and snuggled down.
Rebecca opened the album. Staring back at her was Ruth on her wedding day.
"My Daddy lived on a farm in Illinois. He was in New York when he met Mommy. They got married and went back to the farm."
So, she really did go out West.
The next picture was Ruth crouching down and laughing while a dog licked her face. Rebecca smiled a watery smile. There were pictures of Ruth and a tall red-headed man standing in front of a tractor, and another of them horseback riding.
I see where Adam got his red hair.
Rebecca turned the page. There was a picture of Ruth in a hospital bed, smiling and holding a baby.
"That's me," Missy said while pointing to the baby.
Then there was another hospital picture, with a two- or three-year-old Missy sitting on the bed beside Ruth and holding a baby.
"That's Vincent, my brother." Before Rebecca could ask, Missy hurriedly turned the page. There was Ruth with Missy, now four or five, on one side, and two-year-old Vincent on the other, and Ruth holding yet another a baby. "That's Adam." The next few pictures were normal family pictures - birthdays, holidays, and picnics. Everyone smiling and laughing. They were the perfect happy family.
Rebecca almost sobbed when she saw the next picture. Ruth, Missy and Adam. Rebecca could see the pain and hopelessness in Ruth's eyes.
"That was after Daddy and Vincent died," Missy whispered. "We went to the lake. Vincent went swimming and started to drown. Daddy jumped in to save him. They both drownded. Mommy was sad all the time, so we moved here."
I missed ALL of this. I missed the wedding, birthdays, and celebrations. I missed the deaths. Oh, Ruth, if I had known, I would've stood by your side during your darkest times.
Rebecca wrapped her arms around the children and let the tears fall.
Missy pulled the picture of Ruth with the dog out of the album. "Here, you can keep this," she said as she handed the picture to Rebecca.
Rebecca gently took the picture and kissed the top of Missy's head. "Thank you," she managed to whisper, as she cried into her hair.
Joe knew the children needed to get to bed, but he didn't have the heart to pull them away from Rebecca. Finally, he calmly cleared his throat. "Bedtime, kids. Tell Rebecca goodnight," he said as gently as he could.
Missy gave her a hug, then the little girl kissed both her cheeks and then her nose.
Rebecca was taken aback.
"That's how Mommy always kissed me goodnight."
Rebecca smiled. "Want to know a secret?"
Missy nodded.
"That's how our Mommy used to kiss Ruth and me goodnight."
Missy smiled. "I know. Mommy told me." Missy climbed off Rebecca's lap and waited for Adam to finish with goodnight hugs.
"I'll be only a moment while I tuck them in. Please don't leave yet," Joe said before ushering the children to their room.
Rebecca stared at the picture in her hand and allowed the tears to fall all over again.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you earlier," Joe said softly as he leaned against the door frame.
"It's ok. I understand. Honestly, I'm glad you have them. I know they will be well taken care of. Who would've thought this would've happened?" Rebecca said, trying to lighten the mood.
"Hey, look, if you want to take the week off and start next Monday, I'll understand. It must've been a huge shock for you, and you probably want time to grieve."
"Thank you, Mr. Max…Joe. I think being with my sister's children will bring more healing and closure than staying away. I'll be here at six. I think I need to go now though."
"Of course. If there's anything I can do, let me know."
Rebecca nodded and left.
She walked home. She felt numb, as though she'd cried for decades.
She found herself in her chamber, without knowing how she got there. She pulled out the picture that Missy had given her.
I'll have to get Cullen to make me a frame.
She walked over to a broken stand by her bed and carefully propped the picture up. Then she knelt down and pulled a small chest out from under her bed. She hadn't looked through it in years. With shaking hands, she opened the box.
On top was a small blanket she had carried around everywhere she went when she was a toddler. Underneath were notes and letters she and Ruth had exchanged off and on during their girlhood. Most were discussing their hopes and dreams or which boy they were going to marry when they grew up. Rebecca was sad when she found out Ruth had left all her notes behind. She had gathered them all up and placed them with her own. The notes would have to wait. She was on a mission to find it…
Under all the notes, little keepsakes, and the very first Winterfest candle she made by herself, she found it. She gently pulled out her matching rag doll and just held it close. "There you are, Cassie. I think tomorrow you shall be permanently reunited with your old friend Victoria," Rebecca whispered as she carefully caressed the doll's face. She stood up and placed her on the stand with Ruth's picture.
Tomorrow evening I'll start my letter to Ruth. I'm not going to hold back. I'm going to pour my heart out in it. I bet it will be the longest letter ever burned in the letter ceremony. The others will think I'm burning a book. Rebecca almost smiled at that thought. But first, I need to speak to Father about a ceremony. I know he won't refuse.
Rebecca wiped her tears, and left her chamber to speak to Father.
**********
"REBECCA!" Missy squealed as she threw herself at her nanny and wrapped her arms around her.
"Hello, Missy. Good morning."
Missy grabbed her by the hand and pulled her into the apartment. "Joe is on the phone, and Adam is still asleep." Missy smiled at her.
"Well, why don't we start breakfast. What would you like?" she asked, kneeling down to the girl's level.
"Do you know how to make pancakes?"
"Absolutely." Rebecca stood up and reached into the oversized pocket of her sweater. "Oh, I almost forgot. This is for you."
Missy's eyes danced in merriment at the sight of another rag doll.
"Cassie, meet Missy."
Missy clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, I can't wait until Victoria sees her. She missed her, oh so much," she said as she hugged the doll tight and ran off to reunite the dolls.
Rebecca had walked into the kitchen to start breakfast when an excited Joe stormed in. "Great news! Cathy goes into surgery this morning to set her broken bones. Then, in a couple of days, they're going to wake her up!" he said, pulling Rebecca into a hug.
The hug caught them both by surprise. Rebecca blushed and gently pulled away.
"I'm going to make some pancakes. Want any?" She turned away, hoping he couldn't see her blush. Her hands were shaky as she poured the batter onto the hot griddle.
Calm down, Rebecca. No need to have a heart attack. He's my boss, for crying out loud. The hug didn't mean anything. He was only excited about Catherine. That's all. Nothing more. Nothing less. Man, he smelled good. Quit it, Rebecca. He's off limits. Look where he lives. It would never work out anyway.
Rebecca took a deep, cleansing breath and flipped a pancake.
Joe was about to tease her about blushing, but something out the window caught his eye. It was lightly snowing. "I think I better get going. I'm not in the mood to stand in snow while waiting for a cab," Joe said as he walked to the door.
He threw on his coat and grabbed his briefcase. "If this snow gets worse, I'll be home early. I'll call you if I hear of any school cancellations or if they dismiss early," he yelled, hoping she could hear him in the kitchen.
Joe was just fastening his coat when Rebecca ran into the room. "Here, you can eat these on the way," she said, handing him a couple of warm plain pancakes she had just fried up.
Joe accepted the food with a teasing smile. "Thanks. Maybe I should've hired a nanny years ago." He laughed.
She playfully punched his arm, and immediately regretted it. She could feel her cheeks flame again. "Oh, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that," she apologized.
Joe gave her a lopsided grin. "Tell you what. You can punch me like that anytime you want." Joe noticed her cheeks grew an even brighter shade of red.
Ya know, she's pretty cute when she blushes. I wonder how many times I can get her to blush a day. Oh, dear Rebecca, you don't know this but… GAME ON.
He was drawn from his thoughts when he felt a tiny pair of arms hugging his legs.
"Bye, Joe," Missy said.
Joe bent down and kissed the top of Missy's head. "Be good for your aunt. Bye, kiddo." He looked up to say goodbye to Rebecca, but she was already back in the kitchen. With a grin on his face, he left for work.
Rebecca went back to fixing more pancakes for the children and herself.
It was no time before she had the children bundled and looked one last time at the directions Joe had left.
To Missy's school:
Go out of the apartment building, turn left, go four blocks, turn right, and Missy's school will be three blocks on the right.
To Adam's school:
After dropping her off, facing the street, turn right, go six blocks, turn left, and Adam's school is halfway down the block on the left.
To get home:
While standing in front of the school and facing the street, turn right, walk half a block, turn right, walk nine blocks, turn left, and the apartment building will be four blocks on your right.
Whew!! Twenty-six blocks round trip. I'm sure glad I'm used to walking, but not sure about little legs walking so far though.
"Rebecca, is it time to go now?" Missy asked as she tugged on a mitten.
"Yes dear, it's time to go."
Missy skipped as she held Rebecca's hand.
Adam tried to skip, then decided to jump instead. "You know why I'm jumping?" Adam asked.
"Why are you jumping?” Rebecca repeated as she guided the children across the street.
"Well, I'm so happy that my feet can't walk."
Missy giggled as Rebecca smiled. "That's the most perfect reason to jump. Now, why are you so happy?
"Because it's snowing. And when it snows, that means Santa is coming."
"Oh, Adam, you're silly. It's February. Santa isn't coming for another ten months. We have to have Easter and summer and your birthday before Santa comes again," Missy piped up.
Adam looked like he was about to cry, so Rebecca had to think fast. "When's your birthday, Adam?"
Adam shrugged.
Missy spoke up. "It's September 8, and mine is November 20."
Rebecca froze. "November 20th?"
Missy nodded. "I was born on Mommy's birthday!"
And mine, Rebecca thought to herself.
Before they knew it, she was leading the children into Missy's school.
"I'll show you my classroom." Missy smiled as they walked down the brightly painted hallways. Missy started skipping ahead but stopped after only a couple skips. "I forgot. Skipping is for outside, not inside. I have to walk. Here it is," she said as she stepped into her classroom.
Rebecca took notice of the marker beside the classroom door.
Mrs. Hart
2nd Grade
A middle-aged, short, and a bit pudgy woman smiled warmly at Missy. "Melissa, I'm so glad to see you this morning." She gave the girl a warm hug.
She and Mary would be such great friends, Rebecca thought.
A pair of arms around her waist brought her back from her daydreaming.
"Bye, Rebecca. I'll see you after school." Missy headed to her desk as she said out loud, "That's my nanny, but she's also my aunt."
Rebecca smiled as she took Adam's hand and led him to his school.
After dropping him off, Rebecca started back to the apartment. She shivered as she pulled her coat tighter around her body. The wind had picked up and temperatures were dropping steadily. She picked up her pace as she hurried back to the warmth of Joe's apartment.
Her teeth were chattering as a blast of warm air hit her when she walked into the apartment.
I sure hope Joe has some tea. I really could use some hot tea.
She rummaged through the cabinets.
Coffee. Hot chocolate. I bet the children would love a cup after school. Nope, no tea.
She sighed as she grabbed a packet of hot chocolate.
As she warmed the milk, she took inventory of the groceries. The well-stocked refrigerator, freezer and cabinets showed that Joe had just recently gone shopping.
She sat down to enjoy her hot chocolate and tried to think of what else needed doing. Joe didn't leave her a list. As she drained the last of her drink, she decided to turn on the radio that was sitting on a shelf. She moved the dial until she finally was able to find a clear station.
She wandered into the children's room, allowing the music to keep her company. The beds weren't made, but the room was clean. She quickly made the beds and placed Missy's two rag dolls on top.
There, that's done. I wonder if I should check Joe's room?
The mere thought of entering the man's bedroom made her cheeks grow hot.
I'll just peek in.
She opened the door and sighed with relief at the sight of the made bed. She quickly closed the door with another sigh.
"We break in for an important message. The weather broadcast service has announced a blizzard warning for the following areas…"
Rebecca looked outside. Snow was falling so heavily she could barely see across the street.
"... four inches an hour. Everyone should stay inside. The following schools will be dismissing at noon…" the radio continued on.
Rebecca looked at the clock: 10:30.
Perhaps I should go now and pick up the children. I'll get Adam first. No need to make Missy walk further than necessary.
Rebecca hurriedly put on her coat and headed to Adam's school.
15 minutes later: Ring… ring…
"Come on, Rebecca, answer the phone," Joe said out loud into the receiver. He began pacing in front of his office window when he heard the answering machine pick up.
You have reached Joe Maxwell. At the sound of the beep, leave your name and number. *beep*
"Yeah, Rebecca, if you're there, pick up. The schools are being dismissed early. I'll pick up the kids. Stay inside. We will be home shortly." Joe sighed as he hung up.
He half ran to the elevator as he put on his coat on the way. He made it to an idle taxi and gave the address as he scrambled into the back seat.
Rebecca slowly made it to Adam's school. The snow felt like ice was mixed with it and it hurt her face as she walked as quickly as she could. The warm air hit her as she entered Adam's school. She made her way to his class, and helped the boy bundle up. By the time they got to the door, Rebecca shivered. There was already a sheet of ice on the ground and the snow was still falling hard.
"OK, Adam. Take my hand and hold tight. It's going to be slippery so walk slowly."
It took double the time to get to the corner.
"It's cold, Rebecca." Adam shivered as they made their way through the snow-covered sidewalk.
"I know it is," she said as she picked the boy up. "Put your face on my shoulder. That will keep your face warm."
Carrying the boy slowed her down even more, and she wasn't sure how long she could carry him.
"REBECCA!!"
She turned around to see Joe jumping out of a taxi mere feet behind her. He slid over to them, and took Adam from her. "Get in. We'll go get Missy."
"I've never been happier to see anyone in my life," Rebecca gushed as she climbed in.
"I tried to call, but you were already gone. You shouldn't have to walk in this mess," he said as the car slowly moved toward Missy's school. When the car stopped, Joe threw the door open. "You and Adam stay here. I'll go get Missy." With that, he closed the door and headed into the school.
In a few minutes, Rebecca saw the pair just inside the doors. Rebecca's heart melted to see Joe in his three-piece suit and dress coat kneeling down in front of Missy, zipping up her coat and tying her hood. If that scene didn't stop her heart, his next actions did. He stood up and took Missy's backpack from her and slung it over his shoulder. Then he easily hoisted Missy into his arms and carried her to the taxi.
Why is it that men are so handsome when they're caring for children? Now, where did that come from? she thought to herself.
The door opened and Missy was gently placed inside before Joe climbed in. "How about we go home and warm up with some popcorn and hot chocolate?" Joe smiled.
The children broke out in cheers. Rebecca looked quizzically at Joe. "Popcorn for lunch?" she asked.
"You're right. I have a feeling school will be cancelled tomorrow, so how about a movie night after dinner instead?”
Both children excitedly agreed.
"Children, why don't you take off your wet shoes and socks while I fix us some lunch," Rebecca said as they entered the apartment.
"May I wear my pajamas? They're super comfortable," Missy asked.
"Me too. Me too!" Adam excitedly exclaimed while pulling off his sock.
"That's up to Mr.… Joe," Rebecca said, catching herself.
"Sure kids, you're not going anywhere." Joe turned to Rebecca. "And neither are you."
Rebecca was stunned and started stammering. "I can get home all right. It's not terribly far."
Joe shook his head. "No, Becky, you're not leaving. I can run by your home and get some items, but you're staying put."
Rebecca panicked, and prayed he couldn't see her fear.
Oh, no, you can't, Joe.
"Honestly Joe. I'll be all right."
Joe ran his fingers through his hair and looked out the window. The snow had turned to ice. Everything was covered. Joe shook his head. "No, you have no other choice but to stay here. I won't take no for an answer."
Rebecca sighed in relief.
At least he's not insisting on walking me to my door.
"Do you mind calling Peter and letting him know where I am? I don't want F... Jacob to worry."
"Can't you call Jacob directly?"
Rebecca chuckled at the thought of Father talking on the phone. "No. He's most likely someplace that doesn't have phone service."
"Why does that not surprise me," he said as he headed towards the phone to place the call.
"What would you like for lunch?" she asked the children.
"Do you know how to make grilled cheese?" Missy asked.
"That's my favorite." Adam said, coming into the kitchen.
Rebecca looked and found all they needed for grilled cheese. She even found a couple of cans of tomato soup.
"Peter just called back. Jacob sent the message to stay here as long as you need," Joe stated as he walked into the kitchen.
Rebecca sighed with relief. "I was going to make some tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch. I thought it would be a perfect meal for such a cold day." Rebecca rushed as she gathered the ingredients.
"Sounds perfect. I'll keep the kids entertained as you fix lunch."
Rebecca flashed him an appreciative smile as she continued her task.
In no time they were sitting down for lunch.
"I have some work to finish this afternoon, so I'll be in my room if you need me," Joe said as he wiped the crumbs off his mouth.
Rebecca nodded. "I'll keep the children quiet so you can work."
"I appreciate it. After I'm finished, we'll play a game. This shouldn't take more than 45 minutes. An hour and a half, tops."
"YAY!! I love playing games," Missy stated.
Joe smiled as he got up. He kissed the tops of the children's heads and turned toward Rebecca. "That meal was delicious. Thank you." Then he turned and walked to his room.
After the children were finished eating, Missy and Adam went to their rooms. They weren't gone long when Adam came into the living room with a handful of Hot Wheel cars and Missy came in with the book Ramona Quimby, Age 8. Adam plopped himself on the floor and started making quiet car noises as he pushed his cars around. Missy got comfortable on the couch and started to silently read.
These children really are easy to watch. I may as well clean up the kitchen, and see what I can make for dinner later.
Fifteen minutes later, Rebecca had the kitchen spotless, and had pulled out a book she had brought along. She had just finished a chapter when she heard Missy sigh and close her book. The little girl went to her backpack and fished out a sheet of paper. She then walked up to Rebecca.
"We're supposed to have a spelling test tomorrow. Would you help me with my words?" she asked as she handed Rebecca her list of spelling words.
"Of course, I'll help you," she replied as she laid her book down. Rebecca looked over the list.
"These are the meaning words," Missy stated.
"’Meaning words’?" Rebecca questioned.
"Yeah. They're, there, their; you're, your; through, threw… You know, the words that sound the same, but have different meanings. My teacher calls them the meaning words."
Rebecca smiled as she began. “First word: they're. They're going to pass this test if they study hard."
Missy opened her mouth to speak when the lights started flickering.
Don't go out, Rebecca thought to herself as she stared at the light.
Joe came rushing into the room. "Was it my imagination or did the lights flicker?"
"You didn't imagine anything."
Joe headed to a drawer and pulled out a couple of flashlights. The flash of light let him know the batteries were good.
"What are you doing?" Adam asked.
"Getting things ready in case we lose power. Why don't you kids go grab your blankets and get comfortable on the floor." He then walked to a cabinet and grabbed a radio, and again checked the batteries. He left the room and came back with some candles and a box of matches. The matches he placed high on a shelf, away from little hands.
The power decided at that moment to go out. Missy let out a scream and ran to Joe. He picked her up and soothed her. The lights just as quickly came back on. "Could be a power surge," he said as he looked outside.
The lights flickered occasionally all afternoon. They held their breath each time, not knowing if this time they'd go out for good. Thankfully, the lights stayed on.
Rebecca looked at the clock. "Five o'clock. I better get dinner prepared."
"I have maybe 15 more minutes of work to do then we can play a game," Joe said as he walked back to his room.
Rebecca had just placed a meatloaf in the oven when she could hear shrieks of laughter coming from the living room. She smiled at the happy sounds as she decided to peek in. Joe was sitting on the floor with a board game on the coffee table. Missy and Adam were sitting on opposite sides of each other. Joe spun the spinner and moved his piece.
They are the ideal perfect family. Wish I could be a part of this family. Now, where in the world did that come from? OK, so maybe I am crushing on my boss. Is that even allowed? Cool it, Rebecca. Would he fire me if he knew? Better not chance it.
Rebecca shook the thoughts out of her head at the sound of another peal of laughter.
Joe, wearing a bracelet, placed a crown on his head. The children found it hilarious, and were doubled over in laughter.
"What is this game?" she couldn't help but ask between her giggles.
"It's Pretty Pretty Princess. You spin the spinner and move your piece that number of spots. If you get the necklace, both earrings, bracelet, ring and the crown, you win. But you can't win if you have the black ring. Oh, and some spots make you put something back," Missy explained.
"Well, it seems as though Joe may become the pretty princess." She laughed teasingly.
"NO WAY. I'm going to get that crown from him. I just need to spin a three and I win. I have all I need except the crown," Missy said.
Rebecca returned to the kitchen to finish dinner.
"I WON! I WON!!" Missy shouted a few minutes later.
The sound of crying caught Rebecca's attention and she flew into the living room to see Adam in tears. Joe pulled the boy onto his lap. "Losing can be fun too. Watch." Joe removed Adam off his lap, stood up, and started jumping up and down. "I lost, I lost. Yay!!!" he cheered while punching the air.
Rebecca couldn't help but join the children in laughing. Joe, hearing Rebecca's laugh, looked over and winked at her. She shyly smiled at him before announcing dinner was ready.
"That was delicious. Thank you, Rebecca." Joe said as he stood to carry his plate to the sink.
"You're welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed it."
Missy looked quizzically at both adults and then a slow smile came to her lips. The adults were too busy to see the mischievous smile. "Rebecca, can you help me put my game up? It goes on the top shelf in my closet, but I can't reach it," Missy asked, hoping to get Rebecca alone.
"Of course."
Missy ran into the living room, grabbed her game, and handed it to Rebecca. Rebecca smiled as she took the game from the young girl and headed to her room. Missy followed behind, closed the door, and blocked the way once Rebecca reached the closet. Rebecca was startled by the sudden noise and spun around.
"I need to talk to you alone," Missy stated.
Rebecca noticed the serious look on the girl's face, and gently sat on the bed. "OK, I'm listening."
"You love Joe."
The simple statement shocked Rebecca to the core. "H-H-He's my boss. W-W-Why do you say that?" she stammered.
"I see how you look at him." Missy paused before whispering. "He loves you too."
Rebecca was flustered and could feel her heart pounding, and her face turned crimson. "You're just a little girl. How would you know?"
"Joe looks at you the same way my Daddy used to look at my Mommy. He stares at you when you're not looking. I see you looking at him the same way. I want you to marry Joe, so we can be a real family. I'll help you," she said earnestly.
An overwhelming sense of fear washed over her. "Missy, NO. This isn't for you to worry about, and it's not your job." Rebecca was flustered.
"Hey, Missy, what movie would you like to watch?" Joe asked, knocking on the door.
Rebecca jumped at the sound and tried to get her pounding heart back in rhythm.
"How about The Sound of Music?" Missy piped up.
"Sure. I'll put it on."
"It's about a captain that falls in love with the nanny," Missy whispered to Rebecca.
This child is going to be the death of me.
Rebecca took a deep breath before following Missy into the living room. Her breath caught at the sight of Joe in a sweatshirt and sweatpants.
He's even handsome when he's not dressed up.
Joe walked over and handed some clothes to Rebecca. "I know these aren't fashionable, but they're comfortable. You can shower in the children's bathroom or mine. If you use the children's, you may have to remove toys from the tub." He grinned.
"Thank you. I'll use the children's," she said as she headed to the bathroom.
After removing a couple of naked Barbie dolls, toy boats, and rubber ducks out of the tub, she turned the water on. She found clean towels in the cabinet, quickly undressed, and stepped into the steamy shower. As the water washed over her, she wished it could carry her thoughts and fears down the drain as well.
Perhaps I should stop fighting against my feelings. How would Joe react? What if he really doesn't feel the same? What if he fires me if I told him. What if our relationship sours? What would happen to the children then? The community is counting on the money I earn, so I'd be letting everyone down if I was terminated. Should I risk a possible happiness over sacrifice? How would Joe handle the knowledge of the tunnels? Would I ever tell him? What if Missy is wrong, and only sees what she wishes to see, and not what is reality? What if?
What if?
She let out a sad sigh as she stepped out of the shower. The smell of popcorn drifted to her nose. She hurriedly dried off, and grabbed the clothes Joe had handed her. She held an old university sweatshirt up to her nose and breathed in his scent.
I need to find out what cologne this is. It smells wonderful. Cool it, Rebecca.
"We're getting ready to start the movie," Joe said through the door.
"I'll be right there." She was so glad he couldn't see the blush that colored her cheeks at the thought of wearing his clothes. She collected herself and went into the living room. Missy and Adam were sitting on the floor while Joe was sitting on the couch.
"Sit beside me!" Adam said as he jumped up and took a seat beside Joe.
Missy frowned. "No, Adam, come sit beside me. I need to tell you something."
Rebecca could tell that Missy was up to something, but she was not sure what.
"What?" Adam asked as he plopped down beside his sister.
She whispered in his ear for a few moments. Adam grinned, and then they both turned to look at Joe and Rebecca.
Before she could ask what they were discussing, Joe grabbed her attention. "Have you watched this movie before?"
"No, I didn't grow up with movies or TV."
"What? No TV? What did you do for fun?" Joe asked in shock.
Rebecca chuckled before answering. "I read quite a few books. We also have concerts, and sometimes plays."
Joe was intrigued. "Which concerts? Somehow I don't take you for a Bon Jovi fan." He grinned at her.
Rebecca laughed. "No, I don't know who he is, but we mostly hear Beethoven, Mozart, or some other classical composer."
"Oh, a classy girl, I see," Joe teased as he passed a bowl of popcorn to her.
Rebecca chuckled nervously as she grabbed a handful of popcorn.
"Shhhh. You're missing the best part," Missy said to the adults.
Joe smiled at the girl, and looked back at Rebecca. "Perhaps we could go to one of those concerts together sometime?"
Missy spun around to hear her answer. Please say yes, please say yes, Missy thought to herself.
"I don't know if that's possible. They're a pretty private group, and don't care for outsiders."
Joe opened his mouth to speak, but all the power went out.
Missy let out a scream.
"It's ok, Missy," Rebecca said as she got off the couch and found the children.
Joe found a flashlight and turned it on.
"I don't like the dark," Adam said as he cuddled up next to Rebecca.
"I didn't either when I was your age. My mother used to light a candle by my bed."
Joe walked over and picked up the phone. "Phone still works. I need to make a call," he said as he handed Rebecca another flashlight.
"Go ahead. I'll sit here with the children, " she said as she took the flashlight.
He dialed a number. "Hey, Mom..." Rebecca heard him say as he closed his bedroom door behind him.
Rebecca sat with the children, and was in the beginning of a story when Joe reappeared.
"Sorry about that. The power is out there as well. I offered to bring her here, but she refused. She said if the power isn't restored by morning then she'll come here."
Rebecca bit her bottom lip and nodded.
"You don't think I should wait for morning, do you?" Joe asked, noticing the nervous look on Rebecca's face. "Not to worry. My Mom is very stubborn. She will call and ask me to pick her up when she's good and ready. You're awfully cute when you're worried," Joe teased her.
"Are you going to kiss her?" Adam asked.
Joe could feel his cheeks turn red. “What gave you that idea?" Joe asked, not sure if he wanted to know the answer.
"You love her, and Mis..."
Missy slapped her hand over her brother's mouth. "He's so funny." Missy laughed nervously.
Joe gave the children a quizzical look.
"Look at the time. We better get to bed. Right, Adam?" Missy forced Adam to nod.
"I'll tuck you in," Rebecca said, trying to calm her pounding heart.
"No, Rebecca. You're off the clock. I can do it." Joe winked at her. He took one of the flashlights and followed the children into their room. He sat the flashlight on the dresser so it illuminated the room. He tucked Missy in first. Then he sat on Adam's bed as he tucked the little boy in.
"Why did you think I was going to kiss Rebecca?" he whispered, hoping Rebecca couldn't hear.
Adam looked over at Missy. He could see her shaking her head.
"Don't pay attention to your sister. Just tell me," he said as he tickled the little boy.
Adam laughed before answering. "Missy told me that you love Rebecca, and she loves you too."
Joe's eyes grew wide and his head snapped over to Missy.
Missy just smiled and nodded.
Joe nervously ran his fingers through his hair, and then rubbed the back of his neck. "Missy, it's not like that."
Missy slowly got out of her bed and tiptoed over to Joe. She climbed into his lap.
"Rebecca didn't tell me she loves you, but she does. If you married her, we could be a family. I miss having a Mommy and Daddy."
"Me too," Adam piped up sadly.
Joe cleared his throat nervously. "Both of you need to get to sleep," he said, suddenly trying to change the subject. He kissed Adam's forehead before carrying Missy to her bed.
"Would you please try?" Missy asked.
Joe sighed as he pulled her blanket up. "No promises, kiddo." He kissed her forehead.
"Goodnight," he said as he closed the door.
"I never apologized to you for this morning," Joe said as he walked into the room and took a seat beside Rebecca.
"You've done nothing wrong."
"I should've left you cab money. From now on, there will be money at hand so you don't have to walk to the schools. There's no reason to walk in bad weather. I wish I'd thought of it before now."
"It's all right. It worked out."
Joe sat up in shock at a thought that popped into his head. "I don't know why I didn't think of this before. Do you have a husband or a boyfriend who will be worried about you staying here? I can wake the children up, and we can take you home. I'd hate for your husband to feel jealous or question why you're not coming home."
Rebecca blushed and looked down at her hands. "No, I'm not married."
Joe grinned. "A pretty girl like you, not snatched up? Such a shame."
Rebecca smiled and could feel her cheeks burning.
"Dang, you have a pretty smile."
"And you're blind," Rebecca threw back at him.
"And you're good at insults," Joe teased back quietly as he leaned in toward Rebecca.
Rebecca could feel her heart racing.
"MOMMA!!!!"
They both froze at the cry.
"I'll go. It's probably a nightmare," Rebecca said.
It's either now or never, Rebecca thought.
She could feel her face grow hot as she quickly and lightly kissed Joe's lips, then flew out of the room as fast as she could. When she entered the bedroom, she hid behind the door frame. Her heart was pounding as she dared to take a small peek back into the living room. She could see Joe reach up and gently touch where she'd kissed him. His slightly reddened cheeks and the shocked look on his face plainly spoke of his surprise. However, his expression was unreadable.
Now you've done it, Rebecca. You may as well hand in your resignation now, before he fires you. Rebecca groaned at the thought. Now, why did I go off and kiss him? I'm so stupid.
"Momma?"
"No, Adam. It's not Momma. It's Rebecca, remember?" Missy said sleepily from her bed.
Adam held his arms out for Rebecca. She picked him up and carried him to a rocking chair in the corner. She hummed to him as she rocked, and in no time he was back to sleep. Rebecca carefully carried Adam to his bed, and gently laid him down. She tucked him back in and shivered. It was getting colder. She found several more blankets and carefully covered the children with them. When she turned toward the door, she let out a strangled gasp at the dark figure standing in the doorway.
"You startled me," she whispered as she walked towards him.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to."
"Listen, I'm sorry about earlier. I don't know what came over me. Perhaps you should find another nanny. I shouldn't have overstepped the boundaries. I promise it will never happen again." She couldn't see the disapproving look she was sure he was giving her.
He reached out and gently placed his hands on her shoulders. “There's no reason to be sorry," he said sheepishly. "Truth is, I'm glad one of us has courage, and I hope that's a promise you will break," he whispered as he smoothed a stray curl and put it behind her ear. He took a breath and kissed her.
The sound of a giggle reached their ears. Joe quickly pulled away, and Rebecca was glad no one could see how red her face was.
"Go to sleep, Missy." Joe chuckled as he ushered Rebecca out of the room, and closed the door. He was still chuckling as he sat on the couch. "That girl is something else." He laughed.
He looked over at Rebecca and noticed her shivering. "You're cold." He frowned as he jumped up to grab a blanket and place it around her shoulders.
"Thank you," she said softly.
"Why don't you take my bed? I can sleep on the couch," he told her.
"Well, I'm not tired yet. Would you mind if I just sit with you for a while and talk?"
"Sure!" He grinned and patted the seat next to him.
**********
Rebecca was jerked awake by something, but wasn't sure what. She blushed when she realized she had fallen asleep on Joe's shoulder, and his arm was around her. She wanted to stare at his sleeping figure, but the harsh knock came again. This time it awakened Joe.
"I'll get it." He yawned as he stood up to answer the door.
"It's about time you opened the door," a woman said as she pushed past Joe.
"Mom, what are you doing here?" he asked, shocked. "You should've let me come with the car to pick you up," he said as she walked right past him.
"Nonsense. I have two feet." She froze at the sight of Rebecca. She raised her eyebrows when she realized she was wearing her son's clothes.
Rebecca was nervous, and wasn't sure what she should do.
"You walked here?" Joe asked in shock, oblivious to the silent exchange between the women.
"Of course not. I took a taxi." She handed her suitcase to Joe as she forced herself to stop staring. "Now, where are the children you told me all about?"
"They're asleep. They will be awake later," Rebecca nervously answered. She was in a hurry to leave the room, and said the first thing that came to her. "I'll start breakfast."
"Is it wise to have your girlfriend spend the night with the children in the apartment?" the older woman whispered to her son.
"It's not like that, Mom. Rebecca is the nanny, and the weather was too bad for her to go home."
"ONLY the nanny? I'm pretty sure she's more than just the nanny."
"Good morning, kids," Joe hurriedly said as he noticed the children standing in the doorway.
"They're so adorable, Joe. You can call me Grandma Bev," she said, addressing the children.
"Mom, too soon," Joe harshly whispered.
"You can call her Mrs. Maxwell," Joe corrected.
"Breakfast is ready," Rebecca announced.
As they ate, Bev couldn't help noticing the looks being exchanged between Rebecca and Joe. She needed to test the waters. "So, son, Alisha told me a few days ago how much she's looking forward to you taking her to the Commissioner's Ball next week. She showed me her dress, and honestly, I think it's too revolting. She looks like a hussy in it. Then again, who am I to judge? If she wants to strut around looking like a cheap prostitute, let her. She may as well drum up business for her side business. I assume Rebecca will be watching the children that evening?" Bev casually said as she took a bite.
Hmm… Interesting. Both Rebecca and Missy seem upset. Just a nanny, my foot, Bev thought to herself.
Rebecca kept her eyes on her plate, and didn't dare look up. She felt a tiny kick on her leg. She looked across the table at Missy. The little girl gave her a reassuring smile.
The whole exchange wasn't missed by Bev. "Unless you'd rather cancel out with that little gold digger and take Rebecca instead?"
Missy's eyes lit up in glee.
"Mom, you know as well as I do that you just made up Alisha. There is no Alisha. Besides, even if we went, who would watch the children?" Joe asked.
Rebecca bit her lip.
"I could watch the children for the evening. By the way, this is delicious, dear." She acknowledged Rebecca.
She can cook, she obviously loves children, and as long as she treats my son right, then she will do.
"Joe tells me that you have an amazing lasagna recipe. Would you mind teaching me sometime?" Rebecca asked changing the subject.
"That's a private family recipe. We don't share it. Now, when you marry my son, then I'll teach you," she said coyly as she took another bite.
Joe choked on his water at the same time Rebecca choked on her food. Missy grinned at Bev, and Bev winked at Missy.
"Well, it is about time you settled down and started a family of your own. You're not getting any younger, and you need to find a nice girl. Like Rebecca here."
Missy and Adam exchanged smiles.
"Mom, aren't you putting the cart before the horse?" He took a deep breath. "Rebecca, would you do me the honor of attending the Commissioner's Ball with me?"
Rebecca looked down. "I'd love to, but I assume it's a grand party, and I don't have anything to wear."
"Oh, pish posh, We'll go shopping. I never had any girls to dress up. This will be fun."
**********
A week later, the children were sitting on the couch, waiting for the adults to come out of the bedrooms. Joe walked out first, wearing a tux.
"WOW!" Missy exclaimed as she jumped off the couch. "You're handsome. Can I marry you?" se continued as he picked up the girl.
He laughed as she gave him a hug. He put the girl down when the other bedroom door opened and Bev walked out. "She's ready." Bev winked as she went to stand by the children.
Rebecca walked in, feeling uncomfortable wearing a light blue dress that showed more skin than what she was used to. She had tried the matching heels, but matching flats were a better choice. They were Bev's idea. Bev had also applied her makeup and taught Rebecca how to touch it up throughout the evening. Her hair was pinned up except for a few stubborn curls.
"You look like a princess," Missy said, clapping her hands together.
Rebecca gave the girl a quick hug, and looked at Joe.
"You kids better get out of here," Bev said as she gently pushed the adults out the door. But before he could leave, Bev grabbed Joe and put something in his hand.
"What's this?"
"It's your Grandmother Maxwell's wedding ring. It's also the ring your father proposed to me with. Now, it's yours,” she whispered to him.
"Too soon," he whispered back.
"Is it really?" She gave him a knowing look.
**********
Early the next morning, Rebecca found herself headed toward Vincent's chamber.
"Rebecca. What is it? What's bothering you so?"
"He asked me to marry him. I told him I needed to think. I don't know what to do."
"I believe you do. You know in your heart what you want."
Rebecca thought before she spoke. "But that would mean moving Uptop. I could never come home. I would never be able to visit, or see you." She wiped the tears off her cheek.
Vincent sighed. "We will miss you, and I'll always love you." He stood and wrapped Rebecca in a hug. After a few moments, he whispered, "Go, go to your future husband and children. Be happy."
She kissed his cheek and nodded. "You're right. Goodbye, Vincent," she said sadly.
She turned and walked out.
He waited until she was gone before whispering, "Goodbye, my dear sister."
**********
A few nights later, Vincent was visiting Catherine's hospital room.
"Doctor says I can go home in a few days. Jenny and Nancy will be with me nonstop, and they both said you’d better visit us."
"I'd like that. Nancy and Jenny are good women. I'm glad they are your friends."
Vincent froze at the feel of a presence behind him, and he lifted his hood over his head.
"Joe, what brings you here?" Catherine asked nervously.
"Who is that?" he demanded, pointing to Vincent.
"I should go," Vincent said as he started to head to the window.
Catherine grabbed his cloak to keep him there.
"Joe, please, calm down. We need to talk."
"Yes, we do."
Catherine took a deep breath. "It all started one April twelfth…"
**********
Two year later…
Catherine was standing in Father's chamber and quickly looked around at all her friends. Nancy and Jenny were sitting together, smiling at her. Joe was sitting next to Rebecca with his arm around her shoulders. Adam was sitting on his lap. Missy was sitting on the other side of Rebecca. Rebecca was holding their three-month-old daughter, Ruth. They were the perfect family.
Catherine almost laughed at Joe wearing tunnel clothes. His adjustment to below had gone smoother than expected. He was teaching law to some of the older teens who were considering going to law school.
Standing next to Catherine was a grinning Edie, and next to Vincent was Isaac.
Father cleared his throat. "Catherine?"
Edie placed her hand on Catherine's shoulder. Edie's new wedding ring glimmered in the candle light.
Catherine forced herself to look at Father. "Yes?"
"Do you take Vincent as your husband?”
"I do."
"Then I pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride."
The chamber filled with cheers as the couple made their way down the aisle to their new life.
The End
