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Copyright 2004

“Mitch,” Jenny watched out the truck window as the miles sped past, “Do you really think things could be fixed between Mom and Bob?”

He looked at her. She had been silent since they had left Wichita. He knew she was worried about leaving Linda behind. He weighed his reply before giving it.

“Jen,” he told her, “like I said before, anything can be fixed with the right tools. The question is whether or not your mom has those tools…And if she does have them, does she know how to use them?”

“What does that mean?” Jenny frowned.

“How many times have you seen a client come in,” he asked, “with a dog that’s totally out of control? The owner is exasperated and the dog is almost as unhappy as the owner. You sit there and think to yourself that if you had a week to work with that dog, you could make a great companion out of it.”

“OK,” she nodded, “I think I see what you mean. You think part of Bob’s attitude is a result of Mom’s behavior.”

“Jenny,” he was blunt, “He treats her like dirt because she thinks she deserves it. Unfortunately, men tend to be that way. They tend to treat women the way women expect to be treated.”

“Don’t you think it goes both ways?” She posed.

“Yes, I do,” he conceded, “I think that’s why Mom and Dad have such a good marriage. Neither one of them is lacking in self-esteem. They balance each other out and keep each other in check. They’re both strong people and they demand each other’s respect.”

“Do you think there’s anything we can do to help Mom?” Jenny wondered.

“Well,” he shrugged, “maybe we already did. You know, it’s not the typical case where she grew up like that and doesn’t know any other way. I think she’s just been punishing herself all these years because of your dad’s death. He treated her well, so she does know what it’s like. Maybe she needs some more reminding, though. Why don’t we invite her up to visit soon? Maybe if she watches Mom and Dad it’ll jog some memories for her. It wouldn’t hurt Bob, either. He might get a rude awakening if he spends some time around Dad.”

Jenny smiled, “I like that idea! When?”

“We better run it by my folks first,” he conceded, “I’m guessing they’d let them stay there, but it’s not my place to offer it. We still need to go to St. Louis, too.”

“Oh yeah,” she groaned, “I almost forgot. Jeez, after my mom’s reaction, I’m not looking forward to yours. Mine was supposed to be the easy one.”

“Well,” he laughed, “look on the bright side—I don’t really care how my mother feels! Besides, we won’t spend much time with her. We’ll go do fun stuff. I’ll take you to the zoo and the Arch and Union Station. I’ll get us a nice place to stay with a pool…”

“Mitch,” she protested, “This is sounding expensive!”

“You’re worth it,” he winked, “Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it…it’s only money, Baby.”

“Well,” she gulped, “I wasn’t under the impression that you were rich.”

“I’m not,” he chuckled, “but I’m not destitute either. I guess I never actually told you that both my house and truck are paid for. All I have are just normal living expenses, so I manage to save quite a bit of my salary.”

“Paid for?” She was shocked, “How’d you manage that?”

“Between insurance money and selling their house,” he explained, “I ended up with a decent amount when the Martin’s were killed. So I was able to buy the place and the truck outright. That’s why I’m worried about the business loan. Since I’m not in debt, I’m not considered a good credit risk. I’ve been putting money away for quite a while though, so I can put a decent down payment on it.”

“I didn’t realize that,” Jenny sighed, “And here I thought I was going to have to support you.”

He laughed, “Yeah, right.”

“So I guess I can get a big ring out of you then, huh?” She giggled.

“As big as you want, Sweetheart,” he winked, “Meanwhile, about the hotel—do you want a room of your own or do you want to share?”

She hesitated, “What kind of hotel are we talking about?”

“A nice one,” he assured, “It’s across the street from Union Station. It has an indoor pool and hot tub and a fridge in the room and a breakfast buffet in the lobby every morning. There’s a covered parking garage. I’ve stayed there before. It’s safe. You’ll like it.”

“What do you want to do?” She asked shyly.

“Baby, it’s up to you,” he reached over and took her hand, “Whatever you feel more comfortable with. It’s your call.”

“Well,” she pondered, “Two rooms is going to cost twice as much.”

“Yeah,” he nodded, “But money is not the deciding factor here, OK? It’s whatever you want, Baby.”

“Mitch, I don’t know what I want,” she confessed.

She was looking out the window and he could tell she was upset. He took a deep breath and kept silent for several minutes.

“Jen,” he finally spoke softly, “I’m sorry, Honey. I didn’t mean to upset you. I didn’t think it would be a big deal. Obviously it is. I’m not trying to tell you I want you to sleep with me, Baby. Is that what you think?”

“No,” she turned to him, tears in her eyes, “I know that. I’m sorry, Mitch. It shouldn’t be a big deal. You’re right.”

“What’s wrong, Honey?” He asked, “Just tell me, Sweetheart.”

“I’m OK,” she wiped her eyes, “Let’s just share a room, OK?”

“Jen,” he pursued, “Please talk to me about it. If I said something that hurt you, tell me.”

“You didn’t,” she shook her head, “Do you ever remember things all of a sudden? Things you just kind of pushed out of your mind and forgot all about?”

“You mean things you don’t want to remember?” He asked.

She nodded, “When I was in high school and Bob would have these car shows to go to, Mom and I went with him. She didn’t think I was old enough to stay home alone. We always stayed in the cheapest motel he could find because Bob didn’t want to waste money on fancy rooms.”

“That’s why you keep bringing up the money?” He asked, “Honey, I’m not Bob.”

“I know,” she smiled, “And I know you mean what you say…about money not being an issue. But the truth is, I’ll feel safer in the same room with you than I would alone.”

“You’re always safe with me, Princess,” he reassured, “Did something else happen to you, Jen? Something you haven’t told me?”

“Not really,” she shook her head, “I just remember we always got those dinky little rooms with two beds so we could all stay together. They always smelled like cigarettes and there’d be some truck parked outside and left running all night. I’d lay there and listen to Mom and Bob in the next bed and I’d close my eyes and try to shut out the sound of them by listening to the diesel.”

Mitch shook his head, “Sound of them? Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

She nodded, “It’s not exactly a fond memory.”

“Sweetheart,” he reached out and caressed her cheek, “I promise you will never have to live like that again. Never, Jen. Even if, God forbid, something did happen to me…My family is your family, Honey. They would take care of you. Mom and Dad and Uncle Terry…Chelsea and Dutch…and on down the road, my brothers. I know what your mom said about burning bridges. Burn them, Jen. Some bridges need to be burned. You have a real family now and you’re never going to be alone again.”

“I know,” she grabbed his hand and held it next to her face, “You know, your dad promised me that if something happened between you and me…if we broke up, he’d still love me and take care of me just like I was his little girl.”

“He would too, Jen,” Mitch assured, “He wouldn’t take sides. He’d just keep loving us both.”

“I love you, Mitch,” she let the tears fall over his hand, “I don’t ever want to be without you.”

“I love you, Jen,” he comforted, “You’ll never be without me again, I promise.”

~*~

It was two weeks later, on a Friday night, that Mitch pulled his grandfather’s maroon Buick onto the cobblestone street that ran between Union Station and their hotel. Jenny looked around in awe of the city.

“You wait here, Sweetheart,” he parked in the loading zone, “I’ll go get us checked in and be right back. Lock the doors when I get out.”

It was an old building that had been restored and she could tell from the outside that it had been done well. She had never stayed in a nice hotel in her life. She didn’t even know what to expect.

“OK,” Mitch hopped back in, when she unlocked his door, “We’re on the fifth floor. Let’s find a parking place and then we’ll get settled in.”

When they walked into the hotel, Jenny’s mouth dropped open. Mitch smiled, obviously taking pleasure in her reaction. As he led the way across a walkway, he pointed over the ledge so she would see the pool and hot tub below. There was a fountain running down one wall and her expression began to change from surprise to glee.

“See all these trains,” he indicated models in cases, “They’re actual working steam engines.”

“Mitch,” she whispered, “Are you sure we can afford this?”

“I’m sure, Princess,” he smiled as they got on the elevator, “It’s really not as bad as you think. We’re only staying for two nights, you know.”

He led her down the corridor and to their room. He slipped his card key in and opened the door. Jenny walked in and looked around. Nothing like the cheap motels she’d been in before. Two full-size beds; a nice desk; an armoire that opened up to reveal a television and a refrigerator. She opened the drapes on one window and looked across to Union Station. The night-lights glimmered on the pond under its canopy.

Mitch came up behind her and took her by the shoulders. He gently kiss her temple, “You like it, Baby?”

She turned around and put her arms around his neck and he slid his hands down to her waist. She reached up to kiss him and he pulled her closer, parting her lips with his own. The room started spinning as he pressed into her and she could feel him hard and throbbing against her stomach.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” he whispered, pulling back from her.

“Yes, Mitch,” she swallowed hard, “I like it. And I love you…so much.”

“I’m glad you like it,” he kissed her forehead, “I love you too, Honey. I just want you to be happy.”

“I am happy,” she kissed his chest, “You make me so very happy, Mitch. I hope I make you as happy as you make me.”

He lifted her chin so he could look into her eyes, “You make me the happiest man in the world every time you smile at me, Sweetheart.”

She smiled, “That’s easy.”

“Guess that makes me easy,” he teased, “Are you going to take advantage of me?”

“Don’t tempt me,” she giggled, “I just might.”

He got a devilish grin on his face, reached down and grabbed her at the waist, tossed her over his shoulder and carried her to the bed. Jenny didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, but before she could do either, he had dumped her onto the bed and his whole body was lingering over her.

She caught her breath at the look in his eyes, “Mitch, what are you doing?”

He covered her mouth with his and let enough of his weight rest on her that she felt a flicker of fear. He must have sensed it, because he stopped kissing her and raised up to look into her eyes.

“Jen,” he spoke softly, “Are you afraid of me? Baby, I’m just playing. I didn’t mean to scare you, Sweetheart.”

“You seemed pretty serious to me,” she observed, her voice shaking.

He sat up and ran his hand through his hair, “I’m sorry, Honey. I wouldn’t ever do anything you didn’t want me to. I thought you trusted me, Jen.”

She sat up and straightened her clothes, “I do…I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t. You just surprised me, that’s all…You’ve never done anything like that before, Mitch.”

“Yes, I have,” he reminded, “I pounced on you in the snow one time…Jenny, I like to play. If that’s a problem, I need to know that now.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” She felt her fear rise, “If you can’t be rough with me, then you don’t want me?”

“I didn’t say that, Jenny,” he took a deep breath and closed his eyes, “I just need to know the rules. If playing with you and having fun is off limits, then I need to know that.”

Jenny got up and walked into the bathroom. She shut the door and looked at herself in the mirror. Same Jenny. What was going on? Just a few minutes ago she was happier than she’d ever been in her life and she thought he was too. Now, she was afraid of him again. She hadn’t been afraid of him like this in ages. She had to get a grip or she was going to lose him.

“Jen,” Mitch called softly through the door, “Please, Honey. Come out and talk to me. I’ll get another room if you want me to. We don’t have to stay in here together.”

She felt tears as she opened the door. He was standing there looking worn and defeated. There were tears in his eyes, as well.

“I’m sorry,” she went into his arms, “Just hold me.”

He pulled her close and buried his face in her hair, “Jenny, I’m sorry. Baby, please, forgive me. I won’t do anything to scare you again.”

“It’s not you, Mitch,” she assured, “It’s me. You shouldn’t have to worry about every little move you make. You should be able to have fun and not worry that you’re going to scare me.”

He led her back to the bed, “Can we sit and talk about this?”

“No,” she shook her head, “Let’s get ready for bed and curl up together and talk about it instead, OK?”

“Honey,” he asked softly, “Are you sure you don’t want me to get another room? I will, Jen.”

“No,” she insisted, “I’m OK. I want to be in here with you. Just let me brush my teeth and get ready for bed. Then we’ll talk.”

“OK,” he stepped back, “I’ll get ready out here. You take the bathroom.”

Jenny washed her face and put on her flannel shirt to sleep in. As she brushed her teeth, she tried to figure out what had suddenly scared her. Mitch was right. He had pounced on her in the snow, long before they knew each other so well, and that hadn’t scared her. Of course, they were outside, bundled in lots of clothes and at her grandmother’s house then.

She came out of the bathroom to find all the lights off except the bedside lamp. The covers were turned down on both the beds and Mitch was in his sweats. He looked at her with the shameful expression of a little boy who’s been severely reprimanded. Jenny realized she had hurt him deeply. She choked back the tears she felt rushing to the surface.

“Pick whichever bed you want,” he offered, almost meekly, “I’ll go brush my teeth.”

Jenny sat down on one of the beds and listened to the water running in the bathroom. She knew she had to get her emotions under control. She had to repair the damage she had done tonight. She couldn’t let her world fall apart. Mitch meant everything to her now, she couldn’t let him slip away from her.

Mitch came out of the bathroom, “I’ll tuck you in and then get in the other bed. We can talk that way.”

“No,” she jumped up and went to him, “Please, come and lay down with me. I’m sorry, Mitch. I know I hurt you. I’m sorry. Please forgive me.”

“You didn’t do anything wrong, Jen,” he took her into his arms, “I’m the one who got out of line. Are you sure you want me to lay down with you?”

“Yes, I’m sure,” she led him to the bed, “And you weren’t out of line. It was me, Mitch. It was just a paper bag that looked like a monster.”

“What?’ He stopped and narrowed his eyes.

“Come here,” she got into bed and he crawled under the cover with her, “Haven’t you ever ridden a horse that was going along a trail just fine, then suddenly saw something like a paper bag and the horse freaked out? To the horse, it’s a monster. To you, it’s just a paper bag and you didn’t even notice it.”

He chuckled, “Yes, I have. So, now do you know it was just a paper bag?”

“I know it now,” she draped her leg across him and started caressing his chest, “I’m sorry I freaked out. I know in my heart and my mind that you wouldn’t hurt me. I know you wouldn’t do anything I didn’t want you to do.”

“But for a moment I was a monster?” He asked quietly, “Can you tell me why?”

“It was the look in your eyes, Mitch,” she confessed, “Just for a moment you had that same look in your eyes that Kenny’s dad got before he threw me against the wall.”

“I made you feel trapped and helpless, didn’t I?” He guessed, “Honey, you are never trapped and helpless with me. ‘No’ will always stop me. Even after we’re married, OK? I’m not one of those guys who thinks a husband can do anything he wants and his wife has no say in the matter. I promise, Jen, 20 years from now, ‘no’ will still stop me.”

“I believe you,” she snuggled closer, “I didn’t even have to say no and you stopped. You could tell I got scared.”

“Baby,” he played with her hair, “I’ve tried really hard to be easy and gentle with you. I’ve made every effort not to scare you. I just kind of forgot and got lost in the moment. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry,” she told him, “I don’t want you to be afraid to play with me and be yourself. You’ve been treating me like a china doll. You shouldn’t have to do that.”

“I should treat you like a princess,” he kissed the top of her head, “Because you are. You’re my princess.”

“I want to always be your princess,” she assured, “Just keep being patient with me, OK? I know you’ve been patient beyond measure already. Please don’t give up on me.”

“Never,” he lifted her chin, “I’ll never give up on you or on us. I can wait forever if I have to.”

“It won’t be forever,” she told him, “Mitch, this is a road I’ve never been on before. No one’s ever played like that with me. I’ve never been close to a man before. I’ve never let myself.”

“I know, Honey,” he caressed her shoulder, “If I hadn’t surprised you, would it have been OK? If I’d just told you I wanted to play?”

“I don’t think I’ll freak out like that again,” she kissed his chest, “You’ve told me now, so I’ll recognize it as just playing. I’m sorry. I’m really pretty naïve, Mitch.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that,” he comforted, “Nothing to be sorry for. Just don’t be afraid to tell me you don’t like something or that you don’t understand, OK? I promise, Jen, I won’t hurt you.”

“Will you sleep here with me tonight?” She requested, “Hold me like this all night? I’d much rather cuddle up to you than to Teddy.”

“Yes,” he reached up and turned off the light, “I’ll stay right here if you want me to. I’d do anything for you, Honey…Anything.”

When Jenny woke she was on her other side. Mitch’s warm, firm body was spooned close behind her, one arm over her, the other beneath her pillow. She could tell from his deep, slow breathing that he was still asleep. Sunlight was peeking in around the curtains, so she knew they had slept later than usual.

The thought of waking up like this every morning made her smile. How could she ever be afraid of him? He stirred and pressed closer to her. Heat flooded her body at the realization of the firmness against her soft bottom. She could feel the same throbbing as she had felt the night before. She instinctively pressed back into him and his hand found her breast.

“Mitch,” she whispered, “Are you awake?”

He nuzzled her hair and made a low growling sound. She decided he was still asleep.

“Mitch,” she spoke louder, “Wake up, Honey.”

“Mmm,” he began nibbling at her ear, “I’m awake.”

“I couldn’t tell,” she whispered again, “I wanted to be sure you knew what you were doing.”

“Um-hmm,” he kissed the side of her neck, “I know what I’m doing. I’m waking up with the woman I love in my arms.”

“Did you sleep OK?” She asked, “I know I did.”

“Um-hmm,” he nipped at her shoulder, “Better than I’ve slept in years.”

“Can we sleep like this again tonight?” She started to turn over to face him.

He loosened his grip so she could turn in his arms, “Whatever you want, Baby. Your wish is my command.”

“My own private genie, huh?” She giggled, kissing his neck.

“Not a genie,” he grinned, “More like your own private love slave.”

“Mmm,” she purred, “I like that even better. I promise I’ll be yours too.”

“Just be my wife and my friend,” he pulled her closer, “I don’t want you to ever feel like my slave, Honey.”

“I want to please you,” she stroked his chest, “Mitch, you may have to show me how to please you. Will you be my teacher?”

“You do please me,” he assured, “Give me your hand.”

He took her hand and moved it down. She had never felt a man in her hand that way before and she was excited and amazed at the sensation. He held her hand there against him, throbbing beneath his sweats. She detected a tiny moist spot on the fabric. Intuitively, she rubbed him, and he let out a gasp that startled her.

“Mitch,” she stopped, “Are you OK?”

“Oh yeah,” he moaned, “Please, Baby, do that some more.”

Tentatively, she began to stroke him and his hand left hers and traveled up to find her breast. She looked at his face, his eyes were closed and his mouth was open. She reached down and kissed him gently and he moaned in response. Jenny started to slip her hand into his sweats, but his hand quickly stopped her. His eyes flew open and sought hers.

“What’s wrong?” She asked.

“Stop, Jenny,” he whispered, “I know my limits. I can’t handle more than that right now…not and be sure of myself. Soon, Baby…I promise…you’ll have all of me soon.”

“Maybe we should get out of bed,” she suggested, “Breakfast sounds pretty good.”

“Yeah,” he pulled her down and kissed her, “I think I’d better shower first, OK?”

“OK,” she let him out of bed and watched him disappear into the bathroom.

She sighed and buried her face into the pillow where he had been. June seemed like years away right now. How would she ever sleep again without him in the bed next to her?

Jenny felt butterflies in her stomach as they parked in the drive of Mary’s house. It wasn’t a mansion, but it was certainly more upscale than anywhere Jenny had ever lived. It didn’t occur to her at the time that the actual worth of the Jackson farm and stable was probably twice that of this house, because she never felt the least bit uncomfortable in it. After all the stories she had heard, she was not looking forward to this at all.

Mitch got out and opened her door for her, “Remember, Jen, I don’t care what she thinks. I’m only doing this out of courtesy. As far as I’m concerned, Paula is my mom.”

He rang the bell and held Jenny’s hand as they waited for a response. Jenny was totally unprepared for the woman who opened the door. Mary was tall and attractive, in a very sophisticated way. Her dark brown hair was perfectly styled, cut short and curled. Her makeup was tasteful and complimentary to her blue eyes. The same blue as Mitch’s and Rob’s. She wore tight designer jeans and a blue satin blouse that was tucked in, but left unbuttoned to reveal a white satin tank beneath.

She smiled and greeted her son with a warm hug, “Mitch! I’m so glad to see you, Honey. It’s been far too long.”

“Hi, Mary,” he stepped away, “This is Jenny Harmon.”

“Hello, Dear,” Mary took her hand, “I’m so glad to meet you. Please, do come in.”

They followed her in and sat on the sofa together. Mary stepped to a bar and poured herself a drink.

“Can I get you something?” She offered, “I know Mitch doesn’t drink…I assume you don’t either? I have soda or bottled water.”

“Nothing, thanks,” Jenny shook her head.

“Mitch tells me you worked at the clinic with him for a while?” Mary sat in a chair, “And now you’re working at the stable?”

“Yes,” Jenny nodded, “I’ve known Rob and Paula since I was a little girl.”

“And how is your father?” Mary looked at her son, “Or am I allowed to ask that?”

Mitch chuckled, “He’s fine. Business is booming and he’s in his element.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” she smiled, “I wish you’d come visit more often. Since your grandfather moved, I never see you.”

“Not that easy to get away,” he shrugged, “And it’s about to get harder.”

“Oh?”

“I’m going to try to buy the practice,” he told her, “Doc’s retiring and I have the first option to buy.”

“Oh!” She perked up, “That’s cause to celebrate. If you need any help, don’t hesitate to ask. I’d be glad to help with the loan if you need.”

“Thanks,” he gave her a wry smile, “Actually, Dad’s going to help. One of my brothers wants to be a vet, so he figures it’s worth the investment for him in the future, too.”

“Well good,” she seemed genuinely happy, “Maybe I’ll have to come and visit you then, hmm?”

“Well,” he grinned, “How about late June? Jenny and I are getting married then.”

Her mouth flew open, “Married?! Oh, how wonderful! Congratulations, Dear.”

She got up and hugged her son, then turned to Jenny, “I’m so happy for you, Dear.”

“Thank you,” Jenny hugged her.

Mary took Jenny’s left hand and turned it over, then looked at Mitch, “Mitchell! You haven’t given this lovely young lady a ring yet? You should be ashamed of yourself!”

“Don’t worry,” he chuckled, “I intend to. Just haven’t had a chance to go pick rings out yet.”

“Wait here,” Mary went down the hall and into a room.

“I thought she was supposed to be nuts,” Jenny whispered.

“We’re not gone yet,” he warned.

Mary came back carrying a small box and placed it in Mitch’s hand. He opened it to find an old necklace with a large diamond pendant.

“What’s this?” He asked.

“It belonged to my grandmother,” Mary told them, “My grandfather gave it to her when she was very young. I remember her wearing it to their 50^th wedding anniversary reception. She gave it to me not long after that, she knew she was dying of cancer. She asked me to keep it in the family.”

“Mary…” Mitch was shocked by her sincerity, “Surely you don’t intend to give this to me.”

“Surely, I do,” she had a tear in her eye, “You’re my only son, Mitch. Please take it. Have the stone mounted into an engagement ring for Jenny. It’s my wedding present to you both.”

“But…” he was getting choked up, “What about your brother? He has kids.”

“They’re not interested,” she informed, “Nor are they committed to the idea of marriage. If they ever marry, I doubt it will last. No, Mitch, I want you to have it. I’m quite sure you and Jenny will stay together to celebrate your own 50^th anniversary. Someday, I’ll sit and tell you about your great grandma and grandpa. You would have liked them very much. And Grandma would have loved you.”

“Thank you,” he hugged her, more genuinely than he ever had before, “This means a lot to me. It really does.”

“You mean a lot to me, Mitch,” she said softly, “I hope you’ll let me get to know my grandchildren.”

“Of course, I will,” he promised, “And I do want you to come for our wedding.”

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

~*~

“OK,” Jenny reflected as they left, “My mother flipped out and your mother gave us a diamond. Is the world upside down, or what?”

“Jen,” he shook his head, “That just blew me away. I was not expecting that at all. She was like a real mother.”

“I used to have a poster,” she laughed, “It said, ‘Just when you get it all figured out, they change all the rules’.”

“Ain’t that the truth,” he chuckled, “So, how about the zoo?”

“Sounds good to me,” she smiled, “Animals are much more predictable than mothers.”

“Remember that,” he warned, “when you become a mother.”

“Maybe you’d better remind me,” she winked.

They spent the rest of the day at the zoo, reveling in each other’s company. Mitch made up funny stories and used silly voices to tell Jenny what the animals were thinking. Jenny laughed so much her jaws were aching by the end of the day.

“I’m getting hungry,” Mitch observed, as they drove out of Forest Park, “Let’s go back to the room and clean up a bit, then we’ll walk across to the Station and have dinner.”

“Sounds like a plan,” she agreed, “What kind of restaurants are over there?”

“Do you like seafood?” He asked.

“What little I’ve had,” she nodded, “You know, the Long John Silvers, Captain D’s type is all I’ve ever gotten to eat.”

“Well then,” he smiled, “We’ll go to Landry’s. That’s the place right there by the pond. Excellent seafood.”

“What do you want to do tonight?” She wondered.

“I’m thinking the pool and hot tub sound pretty nice,” he grinned, “We’ll go to the arch and shop at the Station tomorrow before we go home.”

“Oh,” she closed her eyes, “I forgot about the pool. That does sound good. I haven’t been swimming in ages.”

“You did bring a suit, right?” He wondered, “If not, I’m sure we could find you one after dinner.”

“Yes,” she nodded, “I brought one.”

“Good,” he told her, “then that’s what we’ll do after dinner. You ever soak in a hot tub before, Jen?”

“No,” she admitted.

“Mmmm,” he waggled his eyebrows at her, “You are in for a treat, my dear…you’ll be begging me to put in a hot tub at home.”

“We’ll see about that,” she laughed, “I don’t beg you for too much.”

“Yet,” he winked.

Mitch asked for a table outside, and the hostess led them to one next to the water. He had surprised Jenny by donning a light blue dress shirt and navy sports jacket. He wore jeans, but they were new and he looked very handsome. Jenny felt under-dressed in her black jeans and light green blouse, but he assured her that she was perfect.

Jenny looked over the menu and her eyes bulged at the prices, “Mitch, this is a lot of money just for a meal.”

He chuckled, “You ought to go to the coast, Jen. You think these prices are high. This is nothing compared to the East Coast. Besides, you’re worth it, Princess. Order whatever you want, OK? I don’t get a chance to take you someplace nice very often, so take advantage of it.”

“When did you go to the coast?” She wondered.

“Interviewing for jobs,” he answered, “I was trying to find a clinic close to a race track, so I was all up and down the coast looking before Doc hired me.”

“I sure am glad you didn’t get one of those jobs,” she observed, “I never would’ve met you.”

“Like Mom says,” he winked, “Everything happens for a reason. I’m glad too. Look at everything I’ve gained just because of taking the job for Doc. I thought I was settling for less than what I wanted, but instead my entire life has changed and I have so much more than I ever dreamed of.”

“Mitch,” she changed the subject, “You invited your mother to the wedding today but we don’t even know where we’re getting married. We need to start making some plans.”

“Yeah, I know,” he agreed, “I was thinking about asking Dad if we could have our wedding there. What do you think about that? Outside on their lawn?”

“What if it rains?” She posed.

“We’ll move it into the arena,” he shrugged, “It’s just going to be family, isn’t it?”

“Yeah,” she nodded, “Think he’ll let us?”

“Sure, why not?” He told her, “Chelsea and Dutch were going to have theirs there at first, then she changed her mind.”

“Where is it going to be now?” Jenny hadn’t heard this latest development.

“One of Dutch’s sisters is married to a preacher,” he relayed, “I guess he’s the one doing the ceremony, so he said they could use his church. It’s probably better since the stable could be busy on a holiday weekend.”

“Oh Mitch!” She cried, “Who’s going to marry us? I hadn’t even thought of that.”

“Relax,” he chuckled, “I have. Remember John Pillar? The guy with all the Charolais cattle? Well, he’s a preacher. I was thinking we might ask him. He’s a nice guy and he knows both of us. How would you feel about that?”

“Sounds like you’ve got it all figured out already,” she observed.

“That bother you?” He wondered, “They’re just suggestions, Jen. Whatever you want is fine by me.”

“They’re good suggestions,” she praised, “A lot better than anything I can come up with. I’m just wondering why you’ve already thought it all out?”

“Honestly?” He sighed, “Because I’ve been thinking about it since Christmas Day when you waltzed into Dad’s living room like a spring breeze. I made up my mind then and there that I wanted to marry you.”

Jenny’s mouth fell open and before she could say anything the waitress came to take their order. She was still recovering from his declaration after the waitress left them.

“So,” he leaned toward her, “now you know. You had me under your spell from the first day I laid eyes on you. That’s part of the reason my family wasn’t amazed by our announcement. They all knew I intended to marry you from the beginning.”

“Why didn’t you tell me this before?” She finally asked.

“I didn’t want to scare you off,” he explained, “After you told me what all had happened to you, I thought I should wait until you were over all your insecurities and fears. I didn’t want my proposal to just be a quick fix.”

“Wow,” she reached across the table and took his hand, “Grandma really was right, wasn’t she? That day when you and your family came to help me move in, she called you my young man. I thought she was nuts, but she told me then you were the one I was going to marry.”

“No wonder Grandma loves me,” he chuckled, “I proved her right.”

“So,” she sighed, “Since you’ve had all this time to plan it all out, where are we going on our honeymoon?”

“Where do you want to go, Princess?” He asked, “We’ll go anywhere you desire.”

“Anywhere?” She raised her brows, “How about Rome?”

He didn’t even flinch, “If you don’t have a passport, you’d better apply Monday. It takes a while to get one.”

“I’m kidding, Mitch,” she giggled.

“I’m not,” he told her in all seriousness, “I’ll take you to Rome.”

“You really would, wouldn’t you?” She smiled, “I don’t really want to go to Rome. Let’s just go somewhere nice and private where we can be alone together, OK?”

“OK,” he agreed, “I could ask Dad about the place he and Mom went. They seemed pretty pleased. It was a cabin on a lake somewhere not far away.”

“That sounds perfect,” she agreed, “Let’s save the sight-seeing for sometime when we’re on vacation.”

He grinned, “That sounds like a very good idea. The only sight I want to see on our honeymoon is you.”

After dinner, they decided to walk around Union Station and let their food settle a bit before swimming. He took her on the grand tour, showing her all the historical markers that told the story of the once bustling train station. She made mental notes of the shops she wanted to visit the next day.

“You know what?” She confessed, as they walked back to the hotel, “My feet and legs hurt. I’m not used to walking this much.”

“Well,” he told her, “the hot tub will cure that. Let’s get changed and go soak.”

Jenny came out of the bathroom in a turquoise bikini, feeling slightly embarrassed. The look on Mitch’s face made her forget. He obviously liked what he saw. She was equally pleased to see him in his navy blue trunks, and realized it was the first time she’d seen his muscular legs.

“I probably should have packed a big tee-shirt to wear over it when we’re wandering about,” she told him, “I’ll freeze walking around like this—especially once we’ve been swimming.”

“I wouldn’t let you freeze,” he grinned and tossed her one of his shirts, “Here, you can use this.”

She pulled it over her head and he walked over to help her smooth it down. He gave her a good look up and down, then took her hand and led her to the bed, motioning for her to sit.

“What are you doing?” She sat down.

“Taking care of my princess,” he knelt down at her feet and lifted one, beginning to gently massage it.

She watched as he slowly, tenderly worked his way up her calf, then went to the other foot and repeated the process. No one had ever so much as given Jenny a back rub, so the feel of him massaging her feet and legs was almost overwhelming. When he stopped, he placed a gentle kiss on each of her knees then looked up into her eyes.

“Better?” He asked.

“Yeah,” she was almost breathless, “Thank you.”

He stood up and reached out his hand, “Shall we go for a swim now?”

Jenny was surprised to find the pool empty. There was an attendant on duty, but she was sitting at a table reading. Otherwise, they were completely alone.

Mitch led her into the pool, “I assume you can swim.”

“Yes,” she laughed, “I can swim. Can you swim?”

“Used to be a lifeguard,” he informed, “So you’re in good hands.”

“So did your dad,” she recalled, “Why am I not surprised?”

She was standing in water just above her waist, watching him swim to the deep end and back. He stopped in front of her and stood up, water dripping from his hair. The water made his hair curl more and she felt a sudden urge to plow her fingers through it. She resisted, admiring him instead.

“Jen,” he asked, “Can we play?”

She was touched by his innocent approach, “Yes, Mitch, we can play.”

He grinned, then bent to kiss her. Unsure what to expect, she stayed put as he began kissing a path down her neck, between her breasts and onto her stomach. She let her hands go into his hair now and watched him submerge into the water as he continued his mission. She was wondering how he could hold his breath and keep kissing her under water when she felt his teeth tugging at her bikini bottoms. She resisted the urge to panic, telling herself he was just playing and she should trust him. Just then he blew bubbles out that tickled their way up her stomach and made her giggle.

He came back up for air, “Liked that did you?”

“Well,” she laughed, “I can definitely say no one has ever done that to me before.”

“Mmm,” he grabbed her and started pulling her to the deeper water, “No one else had better try, either. I don’t want you playing these kind of games with anyone but me, Princess. Now, do you trust me?”

“Yes,” she put her arms around his neck and let herself float along with him, “Why?”

“I won’t let you drown,” he told her, “And you can probably still touch bottom here with your chin above water. It only goes to five feet. Now, just relax…I’ve got you…” he ducked under the water again, somehow supporting her with his hands around her waist. She watched him swim behind her, then suddenly his hands gripped her thighs and he lifted her onto his shoulders, raising back up out of the water. Jenny squealed when he did this and the pool attendant looked up to see what was going on.

“Put her down,” the attendant cautioned, “You can’t do that in here.”

Mitch glared at her and, for a moment, Jenny thought he might challenge her. The attendant gave him a confident look back and he ducked back under the water to let Jenny down.

When he came back up he was very irritated, “Come on. Let’s go soak in the hot tub. We obviously can’t have any fun over here.”

Jenny followed him out of the pool and across to the hot tub. He pushed the timer on the wall and started the jets, then helped her in. The hot water and massaging jets felt soothing to Jenny’s sore muscles and she leaned back against the side next to Mitch.

“Hey,” she nudged him, “Don’t let her bother you. She doesn’t know you’re a lifeguard. She’s just doing her job.”

“I know,” he put his arm around her, “I’d probably say the same thing if I was on duty. I just wanted to play with you, that’s all.”

She grinned and turned to sit on his lap, facing him, “So play.”

He laughed and pulled her tighter against him, “What if I get in trouble with the hall monitor again?”

“I’ll protect you,” she giggled.

He kissed her and slid his hands down her back. She put one hand in his hair and let the other trail down his side. She shifted just enough to reach the front of his swim trunks. He was as hard as a rock and she felt her pulse race at the thought.

“Now who’s playing?” He teased.

“Can I play, Mitch?” She asked in a low, seductive voice that surprised even her.

“I’m all yours, Baby,” he scooted her away enough to let her do as she pleased, cupping his hands under her bottom and working his finger tips beneath the edge of her bikini.

She began stroking him gently and felt his fingers dig into her flesh. Jenny decided to risk it and do what she’d been aching to do for months now. She eased her hand inside his trunks and took hold. She saw his jaw tighten and he swallowed hard. He wasn’t going to stop her this time. She kissed him and he began to rock her gently toward him as his tongue danced with hers. She began to stroke him faster, keeping with the rhythm he set as he rocked her against him.

The heat of the water and the intensity of her emotions were making her lightheaded, but she tried to keep her focus. In her muddled thoughts, she decided to let him be the one in control of the brakes. She had no intention of being the one who stopped this.

Somewhere in the recesses of his mind, Mitch must have realized that Jenny was no longer playing. He could tell she had passed the threshold of teasing and gone on to serious passion. He reached for her hand and pulled his lips from hers.

“Jen,” he could barely speak, “We’ve got to stop, Baby.”

“I don’t want to stop,” she whispered, her eyes almost black from emotion.

“I can tell,” he chuckled, “And believe me, Baby, I love it. But we have to stop. Save this, OK? We can’t do this here…or now. I promise it’ll be worth waiting for.”

The timer kicked off and the bubbles stopped. He had hold of both her hands and he brought her arms up around his neck. She suddenly flushed with shame and dropped her gaze away from his eyes.

“Hey,” he coaxed, “It’s OK. I love you, Princess. Don’t be ashamed to look at me. I’m just keeping my promise to you. I promised you I’d take care of you and I am.”

“I guess we should go upstairs,” she still couldn’t look at him.

“Well,” he laughed, “I can’t exactly get out of the tub just yet. At least not without drawing some major attention. So, why don’t you sit down here next to me for a minute?”

She slid off his lap and settled in next to him, scolding herself for what she had done. He put his arm around her and kissed her temple.

“Princess,” he whispered, “It’s OK.”

“I’m sorry, Mitch,” she apologized, “I shouldn’t have done that.”

“Why?” He challenged, “Because Grandma would be shocked? Or because your mother wouldn’t approve? Don’t kid yourself, Sweetheart, they were young once too.”

She looked up at him and saw that he was very serious. The image of her grandmother or mom sitting on a man’s lap and doing what she had just done at first made her cringe, then she smiled. Mitch grinned back at her.

“Come on,” he stood up, “I think it’s safe for me to get out now. Let’s grab some towels and head to the room.”

Jenny was shivering by the time they reached the room and Mitch grabbed another towel to wrap around her. He helped her dry off, then suggested she jump in the shower to warm up.

“What about you?” She reached for her flannel shirt.

“Don’t worry about me,” he chuckled, “I still need to cool off a bit.”

The shower felt good to Jenny and she found herself remembering the hot tub and the feel of Mitch in her hand. A shiver went down her spine. She’d never been down the path most of her friends had gone down in high school. While they were experimenting and looking at magazines and sneaking peeks, she wanted nothing to do with it. Her experience with Kenny’s father had made her disgusted with the whole idea…That and listening to her mom and Bob together.

She’d never really seen a man before. A few glimpses of cowboys at rodeos, making a trip behind a tree, but she’d tried not to watch. Her mind flashed back to the day Rob had come into the bathroom, his pants undone and his underwear not really hiding what was inside them. She smiled, wondering if all men were that big, or if it was just a family trait.

Jenny came out of the bathroom to find both beds turned down and most of the lights out. Mitch had his sweats on and he was looking out one of the windows. He didn’t turn when she came out, so she walked over to him and wrapped her arms around him from behind.

“You OK?” She asked, nuzzling his back, “Why’d you turn both beds down? I thought we were sharing again tonight.”

He turned around and wrapped his arms around her, “I’m fine. I wasn’t sure if you still wanted to share. I’ll go brush my teeth and be right back out.”

Jenny climbed into the bed they had used the night before and waited for him to return. She decided it was time she and Mitch really talked. Tonight was as good of a time as any.

He came back in, “You sure you want me over here with you tonight?”

“Positive,” she motioned for him to join her, “That other bed is way too far over there.”

He slid in next to her and reached up to switch off the lamp, “How are your sore feet and legs now? Do you need another massage?”

“Do you know what I really need?” She purred, cuddling up in his arms, “I need to lay here in your arms and feel safe and secure and warm.”

“You are safe,” he assured, “You’re always safe with me.”

“Mitch,” she decided to throw caution to the wind, “You told me that I can talk to you about anything, right?”

“Anything,” he kissed the top of her head, “What do you want to talk to me about?”

“What just happened between us downstairs,” she told him, “Mitch, I’ve never done that before…”

“I didn’t really figure you had, Honey,” he chuckled.

“Why?” She got worried, “Did I do something wrong?”

“No,” he squeezed her, “But you told me you hadn’t ever really done anything more than kissing. I consider that a lot more than kissing.”

She blushed, not sure how to proceed. She wasn’t even sure now that she wanted to talk about it. Maybe she should just let it go.

“So,” he spoke softly, “What about it? You said you wanted to talk. Surely you wanted to say more than just tell me you’d never done that before.”

“Mitch,” she decided to just blurt it out, “I know you’ve been with other women…women who knew what they were doing. I don’t, Mitch…I don’t have a clue. Not really. What if I’m not good enough for you?”

She felt his chest bouncing with low laughter. She felt humiliated.

“Don’t laugh at me!” She could feel tears coming.

“Oh, Honey,” he quickly lifted her face so she could see his eyes, “I’m not laughing at you. Baby, you make it sound like I’ve been all over the world taking applications for the perfect lover. Perhaps you have me confused with Dad. He’s the one that played Casanova all those years, until he met Mom.

“Jenny,” he caressed her cheek, “I love you, Sweetheart. What makes you think you’re not good enough for me?”

“I don’t know what to do, Mitch,” she confessed, “I mean, until now, I’ve never even really seen a man before…certainly never touched one. I don’t know how to…well, you know.”

“No,” he shook his head, “I don’t know. Tell me…You don’t know how to what?”

“Do the things men want done,” she said quickly.

“Jenny,” his voice took on a firm tone, “You don’t have to worry about the things men want done, OK? All you need to do is trust me and love me. I’ll take care of the rest, OK?”

“But I…” she protested.

“Jenny,” his tone reminded her of Rob, “I’m the only man you need to be concerned with. You please me, Sweetheart. I thought I had demonstrated that abundantly already. If you still have doubts, then feel me again, right now.”

She felt her body flood with heat at the thought of touching him again and accepted his invitation. This time when she touched him, he didn’t even wince. He just lay there and let her stroke him.

“Jen,” he went on, “I’d rather kiss you, than make love to someone else. I’d rather have you just reach up and touch my face than have any other woman touch me anywhere.”

“Do you like this?” She asked, sliding her hand into his sweats, finding no underwear.

“Yes, Baby,” he moaned this time, as she gently moved her hand up and down him, “I want you to keep doing it…believe me. But I don’t trust myself, Jen. It’s been too long. I’m afraid I can’t hold back, Baby…Please stop.”

She did as he asked and pulled her hand away. He rolled her onto her back and bent over to kiss her. He let his hands travel down her body until he found the edge of her shirt. He slid it up and caressed her stomach as he kissed her. She could feel the moisture spreading in her panties as he slowly moved his hand lower. No one had ever touch Jenny like he was now…not even Mitch. She felt the heat of his hand slip into her underwear and gently brush through her hair.

He was still over her, still kissing her gently on her lips, cheeks, and neck. When his fingers found what they sought, Jenny almost screamed. It was a sensation she didn’t even know existed. He covered her mouth with his own to muffle her exclamation. She pushed her body into his hand, begging for more.

He slowly pulled his hand away and raised up, leaving her breathless and aching for him to finish what he had started. She reached up to pull him back, but his strength was working against her.

“Please, Mitch,” she whispered, “Don’t stop…Please…”

“Jen,” he cautioned, sounding very much in control again, “We’re going to wait, remember? We’re going to save this for our wedding night. And it will be wonderful…I promise you.”

He rolled onto his back and she curled up into his arms, tears rolling down her cheeks. He didn’t try to stop them. He let her fall asleep like that, holding her against him, his chest damp with tears from her unquenched desire.

~*~

Jenny woke early the next morning, still curled into Mitch’s arms. His chest slowly rose and fell with the deep breathing of his sleep. The events of the previous night rushed to her mind, bringing a bittersweet feeling. She wasn’t the least bit afraid of Mitch now. He had shown not only that he was in total control of himself, but he had also shown her that there was nothing he could do to her that she didn’t desire.

She closed her eyes and soaked in the scent of him next to her. They wouldn’t be able to sleep like this again until they were married. Jenny wondered how long the human body could actually go without sleep. She also wondered how she was going to survive until June without wrapping her hands around him again. Something in his voice last night told her that it wouldn’t happen again until they were husband and wife.

Mitch stirred and she raised her head to see if he was awake. His eyes fluttered open and a smile spread across his face. He reached his hand up and brushed her cheek. Jenny caught a faint, vaguely familiar scent on his fingers, then realized it was her own.

“Morning, Princess,” he spoke softly, “Sleep well?”

“Very,” she kissed the palm of his hand, “Did you?”

“Um-hmm,” he picked up her hand and pulled it up to kiss in the same fashion.

Jenny wondered if he could smell his scent on her hand. He eased himself over onto his side so he was facing her and propped up on his elbow. He reached over and straightened her hair, playing with it gently.

“It’s going to be rough sleeping alone again,” he predicted.

“I was thinking the same thing,” she confessed, “I’m already counting the days.”

“Me too,” he confided, “Jen, have you talked to Mom about seeing a doctor yet?”

“No,” she admitted.

“Honey, please,” he pleaded, “you know, you have to go through a whole month of pills before they’re effective. And you can’t start them just anytime you want, it has to be right after your cycle. If you have to wait a month or two to get an appointment, we’re in trouble.”

Her face fell, “I didn’t know that, Mitch. I’m sorry. Can’t you just write me a script for some?”

“I could,” he informed, “But I could also lose my license over it. Do you want me to risk that?”

“Of course not,” she saddened, “I told you I was naïve about these things. No one’s ever talked to me about this kind of stuff. I’ve learned more from you and your dad since I moved back to Missouri than I ever did in all my years before that. I never really wanted to know about these things until now. So what do we do if I can’t get in to a doctor in time?”

“I guess we’ll either have to put the wedding off,” he surmised, “Or risk you getting pregnant. Even if we use another method, the risk is pretty substantial.”

“I’ll talk to your mom tomorrow,” Jenny promised, “I don’t like the other choices.”

“Tell you what,” he grinned, “If you can’t get an appointment soon enough, I do have an old friend that is a drug rep. I’ll see if he can maybe smuggle me some samples to last until you can get in.”

“OK,” she told him, “I don’t want to postpone the wedding. June’s far enough away as it is.”

“I know,” he agreed, “Listen, why don’t you invite your mom to come up for a week or two in May. She can help us plan the wedding. Isn’t that what the mother of the bride is supposed to do?”

“Yeah,” she brightened, “Maybe she could go to the doctor with me. Is it OK with your folks if she stays at their place?”

“I already talked to them about it,” he encouraged, “And they said it’s fine. Mom’s tickled to death with the idea of having her old friend around for a while. And they made it clear that Bob is welcome too if he can get away. I kind of told them the situation and they agreed to help however they could.”

“Did you tell them all of it?” She wondered.

“No,” he shook his head, “Just summed it up so they know to put on a good show when your mom and Bob are around. And, by the way, Dad mentioned something else I hadn’t thought of.”

“What’s that?”

“Well,” he reminded, “Once we’re married, your Grandma is going to be alone again. I mean, I know we can go check on her every day, but it still won’t be like you living with her. He said that since Chelsea’s apartment is going to be vacant soon, your grandma might consider moving over there. She’d be close to other people, some of them even her age, since Hazel and Grandpa have the duplex, but she’d still be independent. He thought we might plant some seeds for thought in her mind now, and see if she’d consider it.”

“You all are amazing, you know that?” She remarked, “You just take care of everybody, don’t you?”

“We take care of our own,” he reached up and kissed her, “And you and your mom and Grandma are our own now.”

“I’ll call Mom tonight,” Jenny decided, “I hope Bob can’t come.”

“Oh, think of it,” he chuckled, “I’d like to see him tangle with Dad, wouldn’t you? Archie Bunker meets Matt Dillon!”

Jenny started giggling so hard she had to jump up and run to the bathroom. She came back out still grinning and found Mitch up gathering their bags.

“Guess we need to get moving, huh?” She reflected.

“Yeah,” he nodded, “Let me have a turn at the bathroom, then you can shower.  I’ll get our things together while you’re in there.”

“OK,” she went to hug and kiss him, “Mitch, thank you for bringing me here. This has been the best weekend of my life.”

He pulled her close, “Mine too, Sweetheart. Thank you for coming here with me.”

“So what’s the plan?” She asked.

“After we get dressed,” he told her, “let’s do breakfast. Then we’ll check out and I’ll take you to the Arch. We can swing back by the Station on our way out of town and you can shop and we can grab lunch there. If we have time, there’s one other place I want to take you.”

“Where?”

“It’s a surprise,” he grinned, “I got to go to the bathroom…it’s reaching emergency status.”

Jenny loved the Arch and the museum beneath it. Mitch told her little stories he had heard over the years about Lewis and Clark, especially about the Newfoundland, Seaman, that had accompanied them. She was surprised at his knowledge on the subject.

“Where did you learn all this?” She asked as they walked back to the car.

“Here and there,” he shrugged, “I like history, Jen. You know who can really tell you all about the expedition are my brothers. They did a whole unit on Lewis and Clark for school a while back.”

“Really?” She was surprised, “Maybe I’ll quiz them when we get home.”

“How do you feel about Newfies?” Mitch asked.

“The dogs?” She wondered, “Why?”

“I’ve always wanted one,” he admitted, “But they’re so big that not everyone likes them.”

“I’ve known a few clients with them,” she recalled, “Always seem to be well-behaved dogs.”

“They’re very intelligent,” he began the drive to Union Station, “But, of course, I’ve got Panyon now. She’s not going to want to share her people with another dog.”

“So why did you get Panyon, instead of a Newfie?” She asked.

 “Chelsea gave her to me,” he divulged, “Dutch’s dog had a fling with a wandering stranger and Chelsea thought I needed one of the puppies. That was when they first got together and…well, it worked out OK because she has turned out to be a good dog.”

“Sorry,” Jenny read his face, “Didn’t mean to hit a sore spot.”

“It’s OK,” he smiled, “Let’s go shopping, Princess. Buy whatever you want, OK? It’s on me today.”

Jenny soon discovered that shopping with Mitch was even more fun than going with Chelsea. He picked out all sorts of things for her to try on and she was immediately rewarded by his approval when she modeled them. Every time she protested about the price of something, he shushed her with a kiss. It quickly became a game to get a kiss from him. When they finally got back into the car, Jenny crawled across the front seat to give him a long and lingering kiss.

“What was that for?” He asked as she went back to her seat.

“To show you how much I appreciate you spoiling me,” she told him.

“So you don’t think I’m buying you off?” He teased.

“No,” she remembered her words early in their relationship, “I think by now you know you don’t have to buy me off.”

“Well,” he asked, “Are you ready for your surprise?”

“Yes!” She beamed, “What is it?”

“Patience, fair maiden, patience,” he teased and started out of the city.

He finally pulled into a drive labeled Faust Park and Jenny gave him a strange look. He grinned and drove around a building with a big sculpture of a butterfly by it. He parked the car in front of another building and got out to open her door.

“OK,” she followed him, “Why are we here?”

He pointed through the windows of the building. Inside she could see a huge carousel spinning round with children on it. She gasped and he laughed.

“It was in Forest Park once upon a time,” he explained, “But they moved it here and restored it. It’s the smoothest carousel I’ve ever ridden.”

He led her inside and paid for their tickets. They stood and watched until it stopped.

“I can’t believe this, Mitch,” she confessed as he helped her onto a horse, “This is the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me.”

He kissed her before getting on the horse next to her, “I promise, Baby, it’ll only get sweeter.”

 Go To Chapter Nine
The Final Countdown