What May Come Epilogue

"Is this the one, Papa?"  "That's exactly right. Thank you son, you're an excellent assistant."   Jenny came out on the front porch with a tiny bundle sleeping in her arms. "How's it going out here?"

"We almost finished, Mommy, do you think she likes it? "  Thad looked at his newborn daughter sleeping like an angel. "I'll tell you what, Michael, when she wakes up, we will ask your sister what she thinks."  This satisfied three year old Michael. He smiled with pleasure and wandered into the house to play with his trains.

Rachel walked up the steps, "Hey, looking good, I see you have added your latest addition."  "Just finished." Thad returned the screw driver to the tool box. The Hollingsworth family sign, hung with  love, had once again, grown by one. Sarah came skipping out the front door and let out a little squeal. Rachel gave her little cousin a tight hug and asked, "How is my special girl today?"  "I'm a happy girl today; did you see our sign?" She pulled Rachel by the hand for a closer look. 

"This says, The Hollingsworth Family." Pointing carefully, "Thad and Jenny, that's mommy and papa ....under it, that's me, Sarah. This is Michael and papa hung this one today, Is-a-bella." Sarah sounded it out, proud to be a big sister and proud that she could read it all by herself. She smiled wide revealing her missing tooth. 

It was the biggest accomplishment of her six year old life. She was a reader! She leaned forward pulling Rachel down to her level. "Did you know that papa gave mommy this sign so she would marry him?"  "Really?"  "Yes, he gave her this sign, and our house, and a shiny ring and his heart." She cupped her tiny hand over Rachel's ear, "Mommy says that was her favorite part, his heart."  Rachel flashed Jenny a questioning look. By way of explanation, "At breakfast, Sarah asked me how Thad and I met." "Oh, I see." They exchanged knowing smiles. Little Sarah popped up like a sprite, "Grandma and Grandpa are here and look, Nana and Pops. And they brought the pizza!"

Sunday dinner was a time when the Carmichael and the Hollingsworth families gathered as the tribe they were; ever growing, ever loving, and never silent. The house nearly burst at the seams, but there was always room for one more. As the hustle and bustle to set the table and lay out the food went on around them, two young boys stood looking out the large picture window that gave a spectacular view of the back yard. Thomas stood unseen, but listening intently to the priceless conversation taking place. Michael stood with his arm around his cousin, Niccolo. At two and a half, he was the younger of the pair. Michael took a deep breath, just like his mother always did. Thomas bit his lip, so he wouldn't laugh. "Now Niccolo, I will 'splain it one more time....the tree next to the swings is an apple tree; that is Sarah's. Papa says she is the apple of his eye. He planted it when she was borned. The tree by the pond is an almond tree and that one belongs to me. Papa says I'm his little nut with a big smile and busy feet.  And the little one, waaay out there, is a peach tree. Papa just planted that one for Isabella, because she is his sweet peach. Papa says that is what the best families are made of, fruits and nuts. Understand now?"  Niccolo had listened to every word, then he said, "Uh huh, we all fwuits and nuts."  Michael patted his cousin on the shoulder, "Yes, yes, good job." 
                         
                           "Dinner is ready, come and get it!" 

An orderly stampede followed. Thomas made his way to the table, smiling as he went. As Thad stood cradling Isabella in his arms, he took in the scene before him, his heart full with the abundant blessings that surrounded him. In a split second, his mind drifted back to when he first met Jenny and to their first book. To think that now, he is holding their third child and the bookshelves in their office are heavy laden with awards proving to everyone what they knew from the beginning: They were a team made in heaven. Jenny walked up and gently touched Thad's elbow to bring him into the present. Looking down into those beautiful brown eyes of hers, he said, "Thank you."  Jenny simply asked, "For?"  "For being like no other woman."

What May Come Part 6

Life settled into a new normal. Long walks in the fresh 
snow became a habit. Walking and talking, planning 
and dreaming. They spent time with family, fostering relationships. 

As it turned out, Thad was great with kids and animals. 
Her family did the best imitation of crazy glue she had ever seen.....instantly bonding with him, never to let go. 

He went to ball games and played squash with her brothers. He and Scott had impromptu jam sessions with Thad on the harmonica and Scott on piano, trumpet, or sax. Her mother treated Thad exactly like one of her sons, expecting him to take out the trash and she made all his favorite foods....equal treatment. As for Jenny's dad, he and Thad spent hours in conversation, never seeming to run out of things to say, to debate, or to laugh about. 

Jenny began to form a bond with Thad's Uncle, for whom he was named. A man of great wealth and professional success. 
A man that had struggled his whole life with interpersonal relationships, with the exception of his late wife. 

The family watched, as Jenny blew life into the embers of his heart. He laughed and told stories of his childhood, became more tactile in general, and displayed a peace, never before evident. It was for this reason, in addition to her multiplied qualities, that the Hollingsworth family, as a whole, opened their hearts to Jenny without reservation.

Jenny and Thad worked together to create the vision of Jenny's dreams, satisfy the publisher, and highlight the essence of Thad's artistry.

The day for the launch party had come at long last; there would be no turning back now. In living color, their work could be held in their hands. It was a moment to be savored. Surreal. Wonderful. Once a dream, now a reality.

For the occasion, Jenny chose a sky blue dress with a playful flared skirt. Her pumps were suede in perfectly matching sky blue. She wore the teardrop sapphire earrings Thad had given her for her birthday this year and the silver chain necklace her father had given her for her eighteenth. 

Wrapping paper, torn and tossed, lay on her bed. Thad had sent her a box of tissue and a tube of waterproof mascara. The card he sent with it said, "I wouldn't change a thing."

Jenny came sailing out the door as Thad came around the front of the car. "What are you doin', my brown eyed girl? I thought I was coming up to get you."  "I know, I couldn't wait, I'm so excited."

She leapt into his arms and he twirled her in a circle. They both laughed with abandon. Putting her down, Thad spun her around with one hand, taking in her beauty. He thought she looked adorably professional. In his charcoal grey suit and his royal blue satin tie, with matching pocket square, he looked positively irresistible. "Let the evening begin." Thad said, as he brushed his lips against hers, then taking her delicate hand, he helped her into the car. 

The turnout was much larger than expected and the response from critics and presales were overwhelming in positive, enthused affirmation. Their plan to become a permanent team appeared more than possible. 

Standing back in a corner, watching Thad work the crowd, leaving smiles in his wake, Jenny thought how glad she was they had done this together. As the whirlwind of the evening calmed and Thad and Jenny said their goodbyes, they each took a deep breath.

Jenny was thinking, "I am so glad this night happened and I'm so glad it is over."  Thad took a deep breath as he thought, "I hope this goes well, I've never been so nervous in my life."

They drove along in comfortable silence until Jenny 
noticed they had missed their turn. "Thad, you missed it." 
"Missed what?" "Our turn, you missed it."

"Oh, I'm sorry,  didn't I tell you?  Uncle Richard asked me to swing by to check on the house. He has to be out of town another week and the painters came today. He wants me to see that it was done right." Jenny felt a little perturbed, "Thad, it's nearly midnight. How are you going to properly see how it looks at night? Why don't you wait until tomorrow? I'll come with you; it would make a lot more sense, don't you think?"  "I do, but Uncle Richard insisted. I guess they are having some kind of inspection tomorrow."   "Does the paint affect that somehow?"  "I don't know Jenny, I'm not building the house, he is." Jenny was getting more aggravated by the minute. "Are you sure about that? I have never met your Uncle Richard. Every time I've come out to the house with you, he's been out of town. But, I do remember giving you an opinion on almost everything to do with this house. We've  decided on the flooring, the tiles, the window coverings, countertops, fixtures and the paint colors, if you will remember!"

Taking a deep breath, in her frustration, she continued, "Jenny, you said, 'Your opinion is invaluable; stainless or what about this black? Should it be side by side? And this washing machine.... notice these features, what do you think would work best?'  We decided on all the plantings in the yard, even the design. When you think about it, this entire house is our taste, yours and mine. The furniture we picked out for Uncle Richard is arriving next week. We could move in and be perfectly comfortable.........I mean." She embarrassed herself. "I mean...ummm.."  

Thad turned off the engine and pulled the brake, they had arrived. 

"Jenny, do you think we would be happy living here?" Thad didn't have that usual playfulness about him. She answered, "Yes, it's beautiful. The layout is perfect. It's an ideal house to grow in...you know, kids and all..."  She trailed off, feeling awkward. Somehow, the more uncomfortable she felt, the more Thad seemed at ease.

Her mind was so full of their conversation that Jenny jumped a little
when Thad opened her car door and offered her his hand. As they walked to the front door, Jenny thought how nice her bed would feel right now. Tempted to feel grumpy, she resisted. Thad's Uncle must mean a great deal to him, and if it was important to Thad, that should be enough.      

Forty five minutes later, after painstakingly going through each room in the house, discussing each color, giving her opinion on how she thought it had turned out, they made it, finally, to the kitchen.

She noticed a lantern on the floor in the great room, just beyond the kitchen.Walking over for a closer look, because she couldn't make it out in the dim light, she saw Twister all laid out. The spin board sat to one side and a tray complete with popcorn, cherry coke, and M&M's. Even the glasses were the ones they had used that first night.

From behind her, she heard, "Left hand, blue." Jenny looked at the mat and setting on one blue dot was a tiny blue box. Thad, picked up the box, opened it, and asked, "May I have your left hand for the rest of our lives?" Jenny, as expected, was crying a river. Thad had, indeed, learned to tell the difference and he confidently knew these tears to be happy tears. On a second blue dot was another box, a bigger box.... of tissue. He handed her a few. She dabbed at her tears with her right hand, while Thad slid the ring onto her left.  "Oh, Jenny, I just couldn't imagine life without you."

"You can't? I'm so glad, me either."  Thad kissed her as he had never kissed her before.

A small light dawned for Jenny. She pulled away and asked, 
"Thad, am I ever going to meet your Uncle Richard?"  "Me, I don't have an Uncle Richard."  "Thaddeus, whose house is this that we are standing in?"  He pointed to yet another box....this one on a yellow dot. Jenny opened it to find a carved wooden sign...it read "The Hollingsworth Family" Jenny looked up to see Thad sprouting wings. "That's your wedding present, my brown eyed girl."  "My what?!!"  Jenny gasped.  "Our parents have helped a lot. Your brother, Scott, designed it and, of course, your dad and mom have been making it a reality with their talents." 

"My parents have added to the inheritance my grandfather left me and I have been saving for years. It means we won't have a mortgage. It's ours!! Welcome to your new home!" Jenny stood, stunned, utterly speechless.

She slowly turned, looking at the room, taking it in with completely fresh eyes. Her new ring glinted in the lantern light as she traced the name carved into the wood with her fingers. She then realized that there was something else in the box. She lifted them out to find several smaller versions of the sign and held them in her hand, but they were blank. 

She looked up at Thad, now standing just in front of her. 
He answered the question he saw in her eyes."This sign says family. I wanted to be ready for what may come. You see, these tiny holes? Thad held out his hand revealing a small bag; they will hang just under the main sign. These little hooks connect them together." Jenny steadied her heart and racing thoughts; it was quite a bit to take in, all at once.

She looked at him, again, "You orchestrated all of this, gesturing with a sweeping hand...you must have been planning this for months..working like a dog to finish our book, building a house for us, having it ready to this point, on the night of our book launch ..all, right under my nose!!"

"You remembered everything about that first night, the Twister game and popcorn, every detail. Lying to me, all this time, fabricating an uncle, all this time!!" Feeling a bit nervous, Thad said, "I am guilty of all that, yes."  

Jenny set the box in her hands down carefully. He watched, presently unsure of how she was feeling. She thrust her arms out and twirled around in circles; her dress flaring out. 

Giving Thad the surprise of his life, with a running start, she flew into his arms, squealing,"Thad, I think you are absolutely the most wonderful, thoughtful man I have ever known!" She kissed him in a manner that made him weak in the knees. "Jenny, I am so relieved that you are pleased. I thought you might be mad. I did lead you down the garden path. My dad mentioned that most women would not be okay with what I've done." "Thaddeus James Hollingsworth, I am not most women, I am your woman!" Thad reached down and picked her up, spinning her about, neither one of them could imagine being any happier.

What May Come Part 5

The next morning, the day greeted them with the snow falling, but the wind had ceased its relentless roar. It was just after 10:00 a.m. when Thad emerged from his temporary bedroom. The day before had been taxing, so he decided to let sleep claim him for as long as it desired.....no alarm to answer today.

His nose led him to the kitchen where he found Jenny stirring a pitcher of orange juice. The muffins that were baking filled the apartment with an extraordinary aroma. It had been the motivation that Thad required to be coaxed to leave his bed. That was Jenny's specific intention, however she would never tell him. Now, he had his head in the oven; "Oh, blueberry muffins.....love 'em."

As Jenny stood, continuing to stir the lumps out of the orange juice, Thad moved close, slipping his arm around her waist and ever so gently kissing her cheek. "Good morning," he whispered in her ear. "Good morning."  Pausing, she took a deep breath to steady her heart, willing it not to leave her chest. "Did you sleep well, Thad?" "I did, in fact, I'm not sure if I've ever slept better in my life."  "That good, huh? Well, I'm glad."

"And yourself?" Thad wondered aloud. "Me? Yes, after yesterday, I probably would have slept soundly on a cement floor, but I had the privilege of sleeping in my own bed, unlike you, so yes, I slept great."  "What can I do to help?"  "Um, I was about to make omelettes."  Thad said, "Okay, I'm on it."  As he opened the door to the fridge, she handed him the pitcher of orange juice and he placed it on the shelf.  He began collecting the ingredients he needed; eggs, cheese, avocado, tomato, green onion, and bacon.

Jenny lifted the muffins from the oven, setting them on the back of the stove. A woman known for being well ordered and in control, though she was undeniably a world class weeper, she gladly relinquished her kitchen. Pulling up a bar stool, she sat back and watched as Thad masterfully chopped, whipped, and mixed all the extras into phenomenal omelettes. 

As they sat at the table eating and enjoying every bite in comfortable silence, Thad broke into it with, "What should we do today? I thought maybe a picnic or a little kite flying."  Jenny fained disappointment, "To tell you the truth, I had my heart set on a day at the beach."  "Okay, that could work, I'm flexible."  Jenny generously offered, "I even have a bikini you can wear." "Yeah, well, not that flexible." Their little game took their thoughts and then themselves to the sliding glass door in the living room. Thad pulled back the curtain.

An eerie stillness cloaked the scene before them. Not a car 
or a living soul moved. Perfect silence, perfect emptiness. 
Everything in sight was heavy laden under several feet of snow. 

Thad released the linen from his fingers and the curtain dropped back into place as they returned to their breakfast. They finished wordlessly and then did the dishes together in the same fashion.

Thad turned to hang the dish towel; when he turned back, Jenny slid herself into his arms. She nestled her head into his chest as a tear slowly fell from her cheek. Thad wrapped his arms around her, then rested his chin on her head. He did not dislike holding her close; it was a magnificent feeling. However, after twenty minutes, he decided to address her concern. He understood what she was feeling, it had hit him as well, but it was a new day and they were both there to see it.

In a soft voice Thad spoke "Jenny, you were there and I am perfectly fine, completely safe, because of you!"  Jenny lifted her face toward Thad's. Her cheeks were wet with tears, eyes red, and mascara smudged, giving her a raccoon like appearance. Her nose was running. Thad scooped her up like a child and set her on the couch as he grabbed a nearby tissue box so she could blow her nose.

"I see right now that I will benefit greatly from investing in this company."  He tapped his finger on the box. "You are a crier...all your feelings seem to leak out your eyes." 

She was beginning to pull herself together. "I can't deny it, I cry when I am happy or sad, and sometimes when I'm angry."  Thad's expression told her he was puzzled..."What?" Jenny asked. "Well, how am I supposed to know which is which?"  To this she laughed a laugh that filled the air with music. "Believe me, Thad, you will know. I'm sorry, but it struck me that if I hadn't gone for my mail you might be...."

"Oh, my sweet, sweet, brown eyed girl, as it turns out, you did and here I am. Listen carefully, darlin', it's of no use crying over what might have been, bad or good. Be present, live in the moment you are in. Don't let the past rob you of anything."

"Wise man Thaddeus, you are right, here you are, here we are, together. Silly of me to let tears flow when a smile and a grateful heart are the order of the day.

"Now, Jenny, let's make a plan together. We are seriously not going anywhere for a while, so let's use our time well."  "What do you have in mind?"  "Isn't there a story that needs illustrated around here somewhere?"  A smile nearly bigger than her lips could contain, broke free and completely excused the tears from her face. "We can work, yes, we can work! Let's see, where did we leave off?"

Thad thought momentarily, "The pond. Hey, do you have some paper I can put some rough sketches on?" Jenny went to the spare bedroom and returned quickly with two large sketch pads and a handful of sketching pencils. "Will this work for you?" Thad's eyes questioned.... how....why?  "I told you Scott is an architect, he has always drawn. Both my brothers have stuff here and I am so glad they do." Thad smiled as he reached to take the offered items.

He patted the couch, by way of invitation. "Sit down girl, let's get to it."  Jenny was clearly enthused; it was with this contagious energy they worked.

The day turned to night without the focused pair noticing. When they did, at last, they put their work aside. Jenny put a salad together, while chicken pies cooked in the oven. They ate on the couch watching "The Quiet Man". For a second night they said goodnight sweetly and parted for a good nights' sleep.

Thad and Jenny worked together seamlessly. 
They were discovering that they were a natural team.
After a few days of working from morning until night, they
had the layout completed.

The uninterrupted togetherness accelerated their rate of productivity enormously. They talked at length and decided they wanted to, from this time forward, work as a team. 

On the fifth day of their unplanned seclusion, Jenny got up to find Thad making breakfast, "Good morning, he smiled, 
welcome to your holiday."  "My what?" Jenny questioned.
"Well, we have been working non-stop with a terrific result, 
if I do say so myself." 

"Time to give us a break, so sit down, my lady, and relax. Your breakfast is served." She obeyed, eating the beautiful and delectable french toast he had prepared to perfection. Jenny said, under her breath, "Is there anything he can't do?"  "What was that?" Leaning forward to listen to what he had missed. "I said, what can't you do?" "Sit still, I struggle with doing nothing.....family trait." He flashed a smile and winked at her.

"I would like to meet them; they sound".....Thad laughed. "They sound loud when we are all together. Jenny, have you looked out the window today?" "No, why?"  "They are cleaning the street."

Jenny ran to the window, throwing the curtains open. Sure enough, they were cleaning the street. It hadn't snowed for two days and the thermometer was rising. It appeared that their cocoon like existence was coming to an end. 

Thad came to the window, slid his hands around her waist and spoke gently in her ear, "We got into this situation out of an emergency. We are coming out of it with each other. Is that not true?" Jenny put her hands on top of his, "Yes, that is wonderfully true. It's strange, I'm used to you being here; I like it. It's going to empty without you."  "You aren't going to be without me. I'm just not going to be sleeping over. To be honest, I am relieved that we will not be under the same roof, because I am having a dickens of a time behaving myself."  Jenny giggled, "I'm so glad! Let's just concentrate on getting the book out, spending time with other people and living a full life. Let's test what we think we have, then we will truly know."  Jenny spun around in his arms and declared, "To life!" She kissed him, hugged him and said with a joyful lilt, "I suppose it would be reasonable to have our first date. If you don't mind, I would prefer something outside."  "Agreed!"

The next morning the streets were cleared. People began the process of returning to their routines and business as usual; slowly, but it had begun. Thad was now free to go home. It was with reluctance that the two of them prepared to part company. "Now, you have my address and both my numbers. You already had my e-mail." As he put his coat on, he reminded her,"I will call you when I get home and don't forget, we have that meeting day after tomorrow with the editor." Jenny answered, "Yes, yes, yes, okay, and yes. I will miss you." She kissed Thad in a manner that caused him to wish he didn't have to go. But go he did. Back to his apartment. Back to his routine. Only nothing was routine anymore.










  

What May Come Part 4

After a minute, Jenny could see the light bulb flip on directly over his wavy brown haired head.

"Do you have any popcorn?" "I do."
"Do you, by any chance have Twister?" 
"Ha ha." Jenny's laughter floated into the air like a beautiful melody.  "I do, but how are we going to play with only two of us?"

"Jenny, are you telling me you have never played Twister with just two people?"  "Uh, yeah."  "It is so much better than when you have someone to spin."  "Why is that exactly?"  

"Because when you play with two, one person chooses the color and the second player chooses foot, hand, right, left. It turns it into a game of strategy instead of a random spin. So, my brown eyed girl, are you game?"

Jenny got a gleam in her own eye as she saw the playful glint in his. She knew that look, since she had seen it a thousand times before in her brother's eyes. Thad confirmed her thoughts as he rubbed his hands together saying, "What do you say, shall we play?"  "Yep", Thad had a definite competitive streak running through his veins, no doubt! 

 Jenny said, "I'll tell you what. I will make the popcorn and you can set up the game."   "Which, I will find where?"   " It's on the top shelf of the closet." Thad headed directly for the closet by the front door.  "No, not that one, the closet in my room."  "Oh, alright." Making a U-turn, Thad went to her bedroom feeling a bit intrusive, but only for a second.  As he moved toward the closet, he saw the same attention to detail as was evident in the rest of the apartment. The floors were consistent throughout. Jenny's room was cheerful, there was no other word that would do. Her bed, to his surprise, was king sized. Pastel yellows and lavenders mixed to perfection.  He found himself noticing little things. like the jewelry box on her dresser. It looked hand carved and he would bet it had sentimental value. The books on her side table, were the complete collection of Jane Austen's works; and under that was another collection of stories, "Winnie the Pooh."  Open on her bed, was her Bible. He glanced to see what she had underlined with the pen lying across it. It was Philippians 4:13.  Fascinating!

The far wall was covered in picture frames that looked like they were hung in a gallery, complete with special lighting that showcased each photograph. Thad thought, "Mom and Dad would love this." He saw generations of family photos. One particular photo got his attention; it was unmistakably little Jenny and little Rachel. A wall of history, of memories, and connection. Thad noticed something baffling; one frame was empty. He found himself saying out loud, "I like her so much....always full of surprises."

Thad could smell the popcorn and realized he was taking too long. To the closet he strode, locating the game in seconds and returning to the living room. He did make a mental note that Jenny's closet was perfect, nothing out of place. Maybe some of her organizational habits would rub off on him...maybe.

As Thad unfolded the sheet of dots, Jenny turned. "Oh, hey, what took you so long? Trouble finding it?" "No, it was right where you said, it's just that I got distracted looking at the pictures of your family...generations of them."   "Oh, yeah, that is them, well some of them. There are definitely more people in my family than would fit on the wall."  " I saw the little you and I even saw Rachel."

Jenny came into the living room carrying a tray. In the center was an enormous bowl of popcorn; on one end was a bowl of peanut M&M's and on the other were two glasses full of ice, accompanied by two cans of Cherry Coke. Thad took the tray, giving her a smile that melted her heart. She sighed a bit and he said , "What?"  Jenny answered, "I didn't say anything."  "Oh, I could have sworn...."   "Nope, not me....must have been the wind."  "Hmm, must have been."

"Thad, do you have any brothers or sisters?"  He had an idea and it showed on his face.  "I propose we make this game extra interesting."  "Uh-oh, how?"   "Relax, I was just thinking of all the different things I want to know about you and you me, so let's agree to answer any five questions the other person asks. Winner asks, loser answers and we have to agree to answer fully and honestly; no hedging." 

 She studied Thad's face, his expression, his features, and especially the light that shone from his eyes. "You're on, Mr. 007."

"If you want to, you can call me James."  "Why?"  "The answer to that question will only be answered if you beat me at this. Okay, my brown eyed girl, are you ready to play?" "I am!"

 Thad walked to the other end of the mat and took his position, placing his feet on the yellow and blue dots. Jenny did the same, then standing up tall, she said, "Wait a minute, who is feet and hands and who is colors?"  "Do you have a quarter? We can flip for it."  Jenny hopped off the mat and went to the mantle, grabbed a quarter out of the bowl filled with coin and handing it to him, she said, "I choose heads and colors."  With a smooth flick of his wrist, the coin flew upward; Thad caught it and slapped it over his hand, revealing that it was indeed, heads. He deftly slid the quarter between his fingers, presenting it back to its rightful owner.

"Madam, you are the winner; you will call the colors."  

With this, he slipped his arm around her waist gently, yet confidently, pulling her into his arms. With tenderness,
he kissed her. Raising his head, Thad continued to hold 
her close. He looked into her eyes asking, almost in a whisper, "How is it, that I feel as though we have known each other always?"

Jenny gazed upward, smiling a knowing smile. "Let's play shall we?" "Okay."  He released her and went back to the end of the mat, planting his feet on the yellow and blue dots. Jenny thought his stance looked like that of a Sumo wrestler, but thought better of voicing it.

Thad gestured ladies first with a sweep of his arm and said, "Right foot, little lady."  "Okay, green," Jenny added. With that, she placed her foot on the green dot. She returned the gesture, "Men second." He responded immediately with, "Right hand." She added, "Red." Thad bent to touch the red dot. Quickly he assigned Jenny's left hand; she added "Blue." She bent to reach. They faced each other and couldn't help but laugh. "Hurry, Thad!"  "Okay, um, right foot."    Jenny said, "Yellow" as she simply slid her right foot over. Thad again...."Right foot."    "Red."  Jenny answered.

With a cross maneuver, Thad's toes touched red.  Looking over Jenny's position, he said, "Left foot." She said, "Green." Oh, oops Thad waited, bent and twisted and hoped this one would do it. 

Jenny crossed her leg over to reach..reaching....reaching 
touching and losing her balance, she was on her back.

Thad voluntarily collapsed, exclaiming, "Oh, thank God!" They both laughed uncontrollably; partly from relief, but mostly from pure pleasure. "Wow." Thad said through his laughter. They caught their breath slowly. 

When he recovered, he turned over on his stomach and looked at Jenny. "I'm thirsty," he announced. "How about you?" Jenny turned on to her side, propping herself up on one elbow, "Yeah, sounds good."  Thad reached over to the tray at their side, popping a can open with one hand. As he poured, the ice crackled and the bubbles fizzed. Not looking in her direction, Thad said, "Jenny, if I remember correctly, we decided on an addition to this afternoon's game. "Oh, yeah, we did, at that. Fair enough, I lost this round, so ask your question."  Thad paused, as if he had to think of one. "I would like an answer to my question from earlier. You gave me no answer, just a smile." As Jenny's thoughts drifted back to the kiss, she found herself needing to ask, "What exactly did you ask me?"  

He handed her her glass. He took a long drink from his, then looked her straight in the eye, as he had done earlier, and  with equal tenderness in his voice, I asked, "How is it that I feel we have known each other always?" Jenny smiled again....that knowing smile, then she took a deep breath. Thad realized that was a sign that she was about to say something that meant a great deal to her. "I believe it's rare for people to find the quiet comfort, the familiarity, that sense of home you can find in another. If I may be so bold, your true self and my true self come together with ease. I think we are home for each other."  Thad listened to every word and when she was done, he stayed quiet, taking her in a few moments longer. Then with simplicity, he said,  "That works for me, quite nicely." 

Now, as if flipping a light switch, Thad changed the subject. "Popcorn?" Jenny thought to herself  that men have aspects, uncomplicated aspects, to their make up that she deeply appreciated. He just received what she had to say; it satisfied him and he didn't need to talk it to death. She smiled and said, "Yes, I'd love some."  "Are you ready to go again?" Thad asked. His voice dripping with enthusiasm.  "I'm game if you are."

Jenny won the next go around. She wasted no time, nearly pouncing on Thad. "O.k. now, answer me, why can I call you James?" "Because, although my brothers have decidedly Italian names, I was named after my grandfather Thaddeus and my uncle James, allow me to introduce myself, Thaddeus James Hollingsworth."  

Jenny rolled on her back laughing. "Oh, my goodness, you are actually James?" laughing harder now, "No joke, that is positively hilarious." 

On the next try, it was all Thad. "That empty picture frame on your wall?" Instantly, Jenny blushed right down to her toes. She could not manage eye contact with Thad. "Oh, that...it's nothing, really." "Play by the rules, girl. Honestly...holding nothing back."  Jenny mumbled, but he heard her. "It's for my husband; just holding his spot." Thad laughed louder than he meant to...."Well, well...... interesting."  Changing the subject, Jenny piped up, " Let's go again, I feel motivated to beat you!!"  "At the game?"  "Yes, at the game!" Again under her breath, "Among other things!"  Thad, even with effort, could not wipe the smile off his face.

Back and forth the game went until they both had had enough. Finding the comfort of the couch, they each grabbed a blanket and cozied up sharing, laughing, listening, and learning. Midnight was the hour they decided to call it a night. Feeling emotionally drained from the days events, they parted sweetly with full hearts to find some much needed sleep.

As Thad lay back in bed, his head sunk comfortably into the pillow. Lying there, surrounded in darkness, he said, right out loud, "This has been the best day of my life."

Jenny brushed her teeth, looking at herself in the mirror and thinking, "Life will be forever different." She rinsed her mouth, dried her face, and found a giggle bubbling up as she slipped under her covers and drifted off to sleep, dreaming sweeter than ever before.  

What May Come Part 3

Thad laughed, his eyes danced full of enjoyment. "Oh, yes, you see, all that time ago, when I first got my box at the post office; the very first time I went to pick up my mail......you were walking out with your mail in hand. I turned back to look at you and bumped into a woman carrying a box of wedding invitations. She dropped the box and as I knelt to help pick them up, I thought to myself, "I will never see my brown eyed girl again."  Jenny spoke with an ethereal dreaminess in her tone, "You noticed the color of my eyes in the split second I passed by you?" Thad raised an eyebrow, and leaned forward for effect, "You have the most beautiful eyes I have ever seen in my life; impossible to miss."  "Ha." she laughed. "Says you."  "Yes." with no laughter in his voice, "Says me." He held her gaze for a few seconds.  "As it turned out, that was not the case. Who knew we were to be P.O. box neighbors? I wanted to immediately introduce myself, but Nicole and I were still together, even though it was long distance. To be honest.....I didn't want to start something I wasn't free to finish."  Jenny raised her eyebrows at this.  Thad quietly explained. "It was my distinct instinct that I would want to get to know you much better and I couldn't, so I didn't."

"Beautiful day." Jenny said.

"What?" Thad asked, as he glanced toward the window.

"That is what you always say to me...Beautiful day!"

Thad asked almost shyly, "Why didn't you say anything to me? Tell me who you were or that you knew who I was?"

She tilted her head as she twirled her hair around her finger. It was half child like, half alluring, and completely disarming. It was obvious to Thad that she was oblivious to her own charms. He forced himself to focus. 
                                                  
                           "Fair question."    "Good question."  

 "At first I was stunned, then I didn't know how to even begin. After a time, I began to feel like a stalker and awkward. I asked Rachel if she knew why you were in a completely different state than the one I had left you in. She explained about your opportunity to attend that art school you have now graduated from."

Thad was truly astonished..."You're like the CIA."

Jenny smirked at him, "Funny!"

He offered further explanation, unbidden."This is my hometown, my family is here, so when the opportunity presented itself, I grabbed it. My parents own a gallery here in town,"La Vista Mozzafiato." "Your family owns that gallery?" "I love that gallery!"  "Yes, my mother and father met in Italy. My dad was an art history major in college and spent a couple semesters in Italy studying. One weekend, he found himself wandering the countryside. It was early in the morning. He was strolling through this little village and there she was".......

"My father tells this story so much  better. That was the first time he saw my mom. He says she was a breathtaking sight; that is why the gallery is  'La Vista Mozzafiato' which means 'breathtaking sight' in Italian. Her father, my grandfather, was a painter, a true artist."  "It's in your blood then."  Thad raised one eyebrow, tilted his head, and gave her a little grin. Sensing he would feel more comfortable if she dropped it, she picked up her story.

 "Anyway, we had settled into 'hello' in passing. About the time I decided to finally tell you we knew some of the same people, as it happened, it was the moment when Nicole..well....uhhh...I found out that...."  Thad finished the sentence supplying her with the words that escaped her. "About that time, Nicole dumped me." "Yes, that....so it seemed like the best course of action was to say nothing at all."  "Until today, that is." Thad offered.  Jenny nodded her head, sighed a little sigh and giggled a bit....."Until today."

Jenny wasn't sure how to tell him there was more, so she decided to switch gears completely while she found the courage. Standing to her feet in a way that invited Thad to follow suit, she declared, "I am hungry and I know you must be too. The soup is ready; why don't we eat and warm ourselves on the inside?" Thad motioned for her to lead the way and took in a deep, satisfying breath. "I am hungry, but if I wasn't and I smelled that, I would eat anyway; it smells marvelous!"

"I hope it lives up to your expectations." Jenny set the table while Thad went to the stove, lifting the lid. The steam floated up, carrying the aroma of the chicken noodle goodness with it. Thad went to retrieve the bowls from the table while Jenny went to the fridge. As Thad confidently and naturally filled the bowls with generous portions of soup, Jenny asked, "What would you like to drink?" Without a second thought. "Milk, if you have enough."     "Good, me too. And there is plenty unless we are stuck here too long."

Thad laughed as he set the bowls in place on the table. Jenny was directly behind him with the milk glasses. She asked, "What's funny?"  Lifting the warm bread from the oven, she shut the oven door with her foot. Turning, she looked at Thad, waiting for an answer.  He said, "It's nothing, it's just that I don't feel stuck. To be honest, I had kinda forgotten about the storm."

Thad sat to the table and he immediately began....not eating....but giving thanks. "Thank you Lord, that you have kept us safe, warm, and cared for during this terrible storm. I want to give special thanks for providing this wonderful meal before us and above all, bless the hands that have prepared it and for allowing me to enjoy her extraordinary company."

Jenny stared across the table at her companion, wondering. Thad said, "Hey, aren't you going to eat? I know the chef personally; she is magic with a cup of cocoa so, imagine what she can create with so much more to work with!"  Jenny picked up her spoon and ate silently.

After a time,Thad said, "This seems a little out of balance." She looked down at the soup trying to think of what she could have missed. Then Thad drew her attention upward. "No, not the soup, it's terrific.You and me."  Her heart began to pound wildly.   "Listen, my brown eyed girl, you know a great deal about me, and I know precious little about you."

Jenny relaxed, "Oh, hee, hee." she laughed meekly, "What is it you wanted to know?"

"Uh, let's see, if you would consider it, I would like to know your name."  Seconds passed..."My family and my friends....they call me Jenny."   Thad flashed a devastating smile and offered his hand across the table." I am incredibly honored to meet you, my friend Jenny." She slipped her hand into his outstretched one. "The honor is mine, Thad."  He didn't let loose immediately. As he finally released her hand, he launched into a series of burning questions. "Now let's see, Are you married? Do you have any kids or any tattoos, or anything uh......?  I would just like to know who you are behind that beautiful face."

" I am not married and no kids, not yet. Tattoos, I guess that is a question you might answer for yourself someday." At this, Thad choked on his last bite. As he took a good drink and recovered his composure, Jenny carried on. 

"I have lived here, well not here, but this town, all my life. I have  two older brothers. My parents were high school sweethearts and they are embarrassingly in love, highly affectionate, completely fun, and tremendously hard working. My dad has always said that we all have purpose, but the serious business of fulfilling that purpose doesn't mean you can't enjoy the journey.

 He is a building contractor and my mom is an interior designer. She always jokes that they were designed for one another.They formed a business years ago and they are extremely successful, but what makes them glow with joy are their pet projects.They search out the neediest people and re-do their homes at no cost. My dad says that if you can restore hope to people, help them believe in the possibilities, it's the best gift you can give."

"My brothers work for them.Thomas is a building contractor, just like my dad, and he is amazing at what he does. When he gets the chance, you will find him climbing a mountain or fishing. He says it keeps his body strong and his mind focused. Both activities involve patience and problem solving which make him better at his job. He also says that, even though, God can hear him from wherever he may be, having conversations with God in the open quiet places helps him hear God more clearly. Scott, my oldest brother, is an architect; his eye for detail never fails to astonish me. He can marry the necessity of sound structure with an aesthetic that is often jaw dropping and beautifully functional. The end result is not only meeting his clients' expectations, but exceeding them each time. My dad takes the vision and turns it into a reality, then my mom puts on the polish and sparkle.

Scott is creative in many ways; in addition to his day job, he plays with a jazz band a couple weekends a month. He was married last year. With pride, she announced, "Last week they found out that they are going to be parents. I'm going to be an aunt! I can hardly wait. I love my family."

"Yes, I hear that in your voice and it also shows on your face. Let me guess, you are an interior designer like your mom. This place makes me feel like I've walked into a magazine."  "No, guess again. Actually, Rachel followed in mom's footsteps. She works for my parents."  "Is that right?" "Yeah, and as for the apartment, thank you for the compliment. I guess mom has rubbed off on me.Any other questions?"

"Yes, Jenny, you still haven't told me about you. Tell me this, what had your attention this morning? The way you read that letter, it appeared quite important.  And if you didn't join the family business, what is it exactly that you do?

Jenny took the last spoonful of her soup. Slowly, she wiped her mouth with her napkin. Thad sat and took in the delicate way she did even the smallest tasks. "Thad, do you want more soup?"  "I think you have filled me to the brim, but I reserve the right to re-visit the soup at a later time."

"Understood, sir, all rights reserved." Jenny collected the bowls and took them to the sink. As she quietly stood rinsing the dishes, Thad cleared the table. As Jenny rinsed, Thad filled the dishwasher. In silence, they worked and in short order, the kitchen was clean. Jenny looked at him with insecurity, almost fearfully. She exited the kitchen and curled up on the couch with a blanket wrapped around her. Thad noticed a tissue box and tucked it under his arm as he joined her, saying nothing. He simply sat next to her and waited.

A tear ran down Jenny's cheek."Please tell me what is troubling you? I have seen a shadow in your expression all day. I want to help if I can."

By now, she had red eyes, wet cheeks and couldn't quite pull it together to speak. Without anything to go on, not even the smallest clue, Thad felt helpless. Slowly moving closer, he put his arm around her. She immediately laid her head on his shoulder and cried a little harder and a little louder.

He handed her a few tissues. He waited patiently as this went on another five minutes. At last, lifting her head, she spoke through sniffles.

                         "I'm a writer and a liar."

This did nothing to alleviate the confusion Thad was feeling.
"A lie of omission, actually. Let's face it, you're definitely gonna.....gonna.....probably not be happy with me."  As she laid down on the couch, pulling the blanket over her head, wishing she could disappear, Thad heard "Oooh, boy!"

He sat there thinking that, without exception, women were the most fascinating and confusing of all of God's creations. And then a light bulb went on. It was just a possibility, but maybe.......

He looked over at the quivering lump under the blanket, gave her a pat on the back, leapt off the couch and ran into the bedroom. Grabbing his coat, he dug in the pocket, pulling out both phone and letter. In a split second decision to face the truth, he tore open the letter and read the words that would reveal his results. As he let their meaning sink into his heart, his own eyes filled with tears and as he re-read, making certain he was not mistaken, tear drops splashed on the page. He took a deep breath to gain some composure. As for the other matter, Thad engaged his phone praying for signal......."YES!" Quickly he scanned through his e-mails, finding the number in the initial communication. He dialed on a hunch.

Still hiding under her blanket, Jenny's phone rang...she jumped....then hurried to answer it."Miss Carmichael, Miss Jennifer Carmichael?" "Yes, speaking. What can I do for you?" "You can turn around and explain why you are crying."

Jenny whipped around to see him walking out of the bedroom with the phone at his ear, the open letter in his hand, eyes glowing with compassion, relief, and a hint of laughter. They both hung up their phones. Thad crossed the space between them in two seconds flat. She hung her head, he lifted her chin with his finger. Finally, it all spilled out.

"It just feels like I am actually stalking you, but I promise I'm not. When I first saw your drawings, they touched me. The more I ended up finding out about you, the more I liked you as a person. Then you ended up at the post office, my post office....your box next to mine. I mean, seriously, what are the odds? When your name showed up; when I found out you were going to illustrate my book, I couldn't quite believe it. I knew it was you. How many Thaddeus Hollingsworths are there in this world; artists to boot?"  "I have known three, myself included."  "All relatives, I assume."  "Of course." Thad responded with utter calm. He could see Jenny was feeling a bit excited, while all he could think about was how cute she was and how wonderful.

Jenny carried on...."See....so.....anyway, that's when I sent you that first e-mail."    Thad smiled, "You little rule breaker."

 "It's not like writers and illustrators can't work together. It's not like it never happens. I think when they can, it makes the end product so much better. Don't you? Don't you think it has been going well so far?"  "Thad, don't you?"  He stood before her expressionless; Jenny couldn't read what he was feeling or thinking. He finally answered, "I do, it has been wonderful. It's that I am adjusting to the fact that this clever, witty, delightful writer I have been working with, is my brown eyed girl. You and her are.....well, YOU!"   Thad winked, giving her some much needed reassurance.

"I am curious about something, what....what was it in that letter this morning? It garnered your complete focus."  With a sheepish grin, Jenny began to explain, "My parents went to Europe for a couple months. They take these trips to different parts of the country and different parts of the world collecting special  pieces for mom to use in the interior design aspect of the business. My dad is always learning different building techniques, enjoying the varied architecture. But the truth is, they have never stopped honeymooning. They love their alone times. I was struggling with a decision I needed to make, so I wrote my Mom, asking for her advice."  "May I ask why you didn't just call her? Or text ?"

"Technology may be swift, immediate even, but a letter allows for the response to be more thought out. Besides, a letter is more private."  "Oh." Thad responded slowly, then backed it up with, "You do work for the CIA!"    
.
 "Anyway, the letter I was reading this morning was her answer."  "Was her answer helpful?"  "It was helpful and encouraging and it made me feel more confident. Jenny paused, reaching out her hand as she took Thad by his. "When I looked up to see you in the floor, white as a sheet, all other thoughts left; it was only concern for you that remained."  Jenny began to mentally assess Thad; his present color and over all appearance. She asked tenderly, "Are you feeling all right now? I mean, can you think of any reason you might have been feeling light headed this morning?"

"I can, the last couple weeks, I haven't slept or eaten all that well. Pure nerves. I have been waiting on some test results."  "What kind of test results?"  "The kind that determine if I have Leukemia or not."  It was now Jenny's turn to become pale. Thad took hold of Jenny's shoulders as she swayed a bit. With an unwavering look, he announced........."They were wrong!"  He held up the letter in his hand." This letter confirmed it. All is well.Turn that frown upside down, my brown eyed girl."

Relief began to overtake the apprehension previously flooding her being. Jenny turned her damp eyes upward. "Thad, my question to my mom was about you. Whether or not I should tell you that,well, I'm, I'm...."  "What are you?" Thad queried. "That I am what you said before; the writer you have been working with and I happen to be the girl at the post office and the connection with Rachel. All that. The unexpected events of the day, complete with all its twists and turns, have brought the truth to light."

"Nevertheless, for the record, my mom thought I should reveal myself without delay. And I truly intended to but, well then....you know." Jenny took a deep breath and sighed heavily. "Thad, I am so glad you received good news in your letter. So glad, so glad......particularly pleased.....happy!"

"I must be completely honest." "Oh, a real change of pace for you." Thad quipped. Jenny smiled at him through nearly quivering lips and wet eyes. Jenny began again, "When I heard that Nicole and you were no longer together, my reaction was about as mixed as you could possibly imagine."

"Instantly, I felt sad because I knew the situation would cause you pain. Then I thought, 'He's available, yippee!' All this time I have felt inexplicably drawn to you, this man I have not known."

Thad spoke with a deep voice, giving away the emotion he was experiencing. "You have not been alone in this, my brown eyed girl. I have wanted to say something to you for a long time, much more than, 'Beautiful day'...I kept talking myself out of it. I have to tell you that your story has touched me as much as my drawings have touched you." And now Thad lifted her small chin once again with his finger. Gently, he wrapped his hands around her face plunging his fingers into her blonde curls, dipping his head, he looked at her, whispering, "Jenny," his eyes smoldering with passion, his lips brushed against hers lightly, unrushed. Responding to his nearness, she reached her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Thad deepened the kiss. It was fireworks and forest fire combined. The blizzard raged outside and they gave it no thought. Thad kissed Jenny's nose, her forehead, and finally her hand. He lead her to the couch, they sat, hearts pounding and speechless.

"Ooo.K."  Thad said, a bit drawn out. "I wasn't planning that kiss, but I'm good with it. Are you good with it?"  "Why yes, I believe I am. Does this mean you aren't mad at me?" "Jenny, I have never been less mad at anybody in my life." Thad slipped his arm around Jenny's shoulder, she scooted herself over until she was able to nestle, cozy and comfortable, under its protective weight.

"This has been building slowly for a long time, at least it has for me. Today, it seems, is a day for truth to bubble to the surface. I have never felt like this about anyone, not even close. Jenny, I think it's possible, just possible, that we were made for each other. I was wondering how you would feel about exploring that possibility?

"I would like that more than you could imagine." Jenny kissed Thad's cheek, bringing a playfulness out in his eyes."Now Mr. 007, what is next?" Thad gave the options under the circumstance some serious consideration........



                                                                                                                



,

What May Come Part 2

More than anxious to get to her apartment, Jenny said, "It's this way, follow me."  Without delay, she bounded up the stairs with Thad on her heels. One flight, then two, they ran to the top of the third and Thad said nothing, but wondered how far up they were going. As they reached the top of the sixth floor, Jenny turned to Thad, slightly out of breath, with a look of apology on her face. Thad said nothing, just smiled, as they continued up to the seventh floor. To Thad's relief, Jenny went to the door that led to the hall. They had arrived! Thad followed like an obedient puppy. Down the hall they continued to the last door. At the speed of light, Jenny opened the door and they were inside, warm....sort of, safe, and completely alone. The sound of them trying to catch their breath was the only sound in the room. Thad inquired, between breaths, "You have no elevator in this building?"

 Looking at him side ways, Jenny answered, "Of course we do. It's just that we escaped the post office.....only to be trapped in an elevator? I don't think so."  "Good point," Thad relented.

Sounding very much like a little girl, Jenny said....."My, ummm brother, Thomas, is big, like you." She gestured with her hands, reaching as high as she could. Thad was searching for a response to this interesting comment when Jenny expanded her thought. "Thomas has some clothes here and I think they should fit you."

"That room there." Jenny pointed awkwardly toward a half open bedroom door, "it has its own bathroom, so you will find towels and everything you should need." They both stood silently, shivering and sweating. Then Thad said, "Umm, o.k. I'll just....pointing to the door....do that.....o.k., yeah."

Shutting the door behind him, Thad leaned his head against it. Running his fingers through his hair, he took a deep breath in an attempt to collect himself. Softly, Thad said, "This is wild!"

For the first time, Thad looked around and took in his surroundings. The bedroom he stood in was large. The bed was queen size, covered in bedding that looked high quality.  Browns, tans and aquas made up the color palette. Decorative pillows were plentiful on the bed. It made it most inviting. A large dresser stood opposite the bed and the dark wood complimented the tone of the hardwood floors. The generous area rug that lay underneath the bed assured warm and cushioned comfort. Detail, style, and personal touches were every where his eye looked.

 Still shivering, Thad opened the closet to see what options he had. A half dozen long sleeve button down shirts and twice as many T-shirts hung before him. A couple pair of jeans and one well loved pair of sweats completed his options. Choosing a pale blue T-shirt and a button down in a darker shade of blue, Thad grabbed a pair of jeans and moved to the dresser to try his luck  Aah...socks and to his great fortune, Jenny's brother was apparently a boxer guy.

The color scheme carried into the bathroom. Dark tiled floors that looked like wood, aquas and tans in the towels and accessories. Thad softly whispered, "details".  He stepped into the shower and enjoyed the feel of the warm water falling on his chilled skin. The extra high shower head was a treat. He was accustomed to ducking down to rinse his hair since at 6'4", he usually had no other choice. As the water cascaded down his body, thoughts flooded his mind. This girl.....this woman was like no girl he had ever known. He had the distinct impression that her depth of beauty escaped her completely. She was smart, obviously generous of spirit, and, and........captivating.

Jenny showered and changed in record time, not wanting Thad to come out before her. She put milk on to heat for cocoa. A large pot sat at the back of the stove with her signature chicken noodle soup slowly coming to a bubbling boil. No canned soup for this girl.

Cozy and warm, curled up on the couch, watching as the fire crackled in the fireplace, Jenny wondered how spontaneous her decision  to bring Thad home was or maybe wasn't. The blizzard was not of her making nor did she arrange to be alone in the post office with him and, of course, she couldn't just leave him stranded. On the other hand, how long had she hoped he would break the ice and say something to her and give her more acknowledgement than a passing nod?

As she thought about it, she chastised herself for not making the introduction sooner.....much sooner! But, how do you say it, without sounding ridiculous?

                            "Lovely weather we're having."

"Do you get as much junk mail as I do? Maybe being Mr. '007', you don't get junk mail. Ha Ha!! Oh, gosh!"

"How ya doin' ?  By the way, you remember Nicole that girl who left you flat with almost zero explanation? Yeah, my cousin, Rachel was her room mate. Nice to make your acquaintance. I think you are wonderful."

"You do?"  The sound of Thad's voice made Jenny jump. There he was standing in front of her smiling, big eyes all a twinkle. Jenny stammered,  "I, I, um".......the milk chose that moment to boil over on the stove. "Oh, No!"  Jenny ran to the kitchen to clean up the mess, ever so grateful for the interruption. She felt unnerved between getting caught voicing her honest feelings and the sight of Thad, fresh from the shower, brown hair, damp and curling at the ends and his eyes sparkling like sapphires; distractingly beautiful. If this wasn't the day for hot chocolate, there wasn't one to be found. After the mess was cleaned up, Jenny went for a clean pan to begin again. About that time, she heard Thad's voice behind her, "Can I be of any help?"

Thad sounded cool, calm, relaxed.....at ease. Appearances can be deceiving. Jenny was stirring the soup while she waited for the milk to heat. Thad found himself staring and speechless. At that moment she looked his way, her brown eyes so full of questions, sincerity, and something else?  If he would allow the thought, he might convince himself she was glad to see him. Hmmm...he liked the idea, but could it be so?

"I thought cocoa would be nice. Is that good with you?"    "Well, it depends."................

Jenny had changed into brown lounge pants and a long sleeved T-shirt, it's soft yellow hue brought out the brown of her eyes and made her golden curls that much more lovely. He was momentarily lost in his admiration.....

"Thad." Jenny asked.  "Huh? Thad answered almost dreamily. "Depends on what?" "What depends on what?"  Thad asked, confused. With admirable patience, Jenny repeated her questions. "I asked you if you were good with having a cup of hot chocolate. You said, "It depends."  "I asked, Depends on what?"

"Oh." Thad put his hands in his pockets and blushed slightly. "Well, it depends if you have any of that marshmallow stuff. I really like it with that marshmallow stuff". As he spoke, she set the jar on the counter and as a bonus, a box of graham crackers.  As quick as a flash, Thad was by Jenny's side laughing and before he could censor his thought, he heard himself  saying, "Jenny, you are my kind of woman!"  Jenny let the comment float away and said, "O.k., marshmallow coming right up." and she punctuated it with a smile.

They sat in front of the fire dunking their graham crackers into their hot chocolate. "This is so good!"  Thad said through a mouthful of graham cracker. "Yeah, it is. It really hits the spot."

Thad dove into the deep end, wanting to settle the awkward revelation from earlier. "So, I'm a stranger, but I'm not a stranger?" Jenny looked at him with a puzzled expression. "You know me because of Nicole or because of Rachel, but I don't know you. Not from that world anyway. The first time I remember seeing you was at the post office. I remember that day with perfect clarity, so am I missing something?"

"No, no, you aren't. When Rachel and Nicole were room mates, I visited often. Nicole had, as you know, a wall covered with pictures of you and her, sooo I know your face well. You guys often went away skiing."

"As I know." Thad said with a  mischievous smile.  Jenny continued, "Well, when Nicole was away, I slept in her bed."

Thad found this declaration completely unremarkable and waited; hoping there was more. He responded with "Uh-huh." just to urge her on. Jenny took a deep breath as if she was about to unburden herself from some tremendous weight.

She looked Thad straight in the eye. "One weekend, you left your sketch book behind. I looked through it. They were mesmerizing ...each drawing told a story that evoked an emotion. The beauty, playfulness, and tenderness; they grabbed my heart. Until then, I honestly hadn't  given you any thought. A random guy I had never met and that was it. But your drawings.......it was obvious that you poured yourself into them and it came off the page; it touched me. So, I started asking Rachel casual questions about you. I found myself wanting to know more about the person who could create these exquisitely crafted moments and wishing I could walk straight into them.

"Wow!!" is all Thad could offer. Then he gently took her hand and squeezed it. And all this time, I thought you were simply my brown eyed girl. Today you could not have chosen to say anything more encouraging, uplifting, and kind. "Thank you."

"You are welcome. It is a simple truth. Uhhhhh, when exactly did I become your brown eyed girl?"




  

What May Come Part 1

Rich, Deep, Sapphire Blue

Sparking with Fire

Sparkling with Kindness

Glinting with Playfulness

Dimming with Laughter

Glowing with Compassion

Dancing with laughter

Smoldering with Passion

Flashing with Anger

His eyes told the Story of his Heart

Her laugh changed according to her mood. At her happiest moments it was  music, a lyrical melody. When she felt sad or upset for any reason, it turned into something more short, reserved, tentative. They both had those windows into their hearts, but to see them, you had to look. Most of the world just brushed by without a glance.

They met on occasion; their paths would cross. A smile shared in passing, a "hello" exchanged on the run and other such pleasantries.
Didn't seem like much, and it wasn't.

Yet they were drawn to one another.  Both wishing for a genuine opportunity to break through this polite  piece of glass that stood between them. It was established, a distant acknowledgement of one another.

They had been neighbors for a while. Three years, in fact. Her P.O. box "006" was next door to his (no joke) "007". One day, through a series of unexpected events, their polite distance was exchanged for something wholly different.

The chill in the air on this morning was more than any day that winter. The temperature had been consistently dropping throughout the week and the predictions of snow were proving to be correct.  Light flurries were tossed about in the ever increasing wind.

Jenny pulled her hat down over her ears, quickly walking across the parking lot. As she entered the lobby of the post office, the warmth that met her was most welcome. "I'd better hurry and get back home before this storm traps me here." she thought to herself.

She put the key in the lock on "006", turning it and opening the door in one fluid motion, hoping it would be there and it said "yes".

Before Thad got out of the car, he reached into the back seat, moving books, empty water bottles and his sketch pad out of the way. Grabbing his heavy coat; "Sure did turn cold he muttered." As he put his heavy coat on, one arm at a time, he thought of Nicole; she never failed to comment on how the blue of the coat brought out the blue of his eyes.

Oh well, moving on.....it was a college romance and never had forever written on it. It was the truth, but the breakup still left its sting.

It's now or never and on that note, Thad ran for it, the freezing wind slapped at his face. The door rattled as it hit the frame. "Hmmm, warmer in here."

He pulled out the letters from his box, shuffling through them in earnest. There was only one thing he was interested in this morning. The suspense was robbing him of sleep and his appetite.

The lobby was empty, with the exception of one other person. It was no surprise when he looked out and saw the snow falling with increasing intensity.

Jenny was so involved in her letter, she had not noticed him or the snowfall turning into a blizzard. On the flip side, he noticed it was her...his beautiful brown eyed neighbor. Her adorable button nose was wrinkled up as she concentrated on her letter. "Must be important." Thad thought.

"Important", the word shook Thad's attentions from Jenny's button nose to his own letter. Back to his search. "Aaah", there it was at the bottom of the stack. Now, to open it. His stomach twisted in knots and suddenly he felt light headed. Sliding down to the floor, he leaned his head against the wall. Breathing slow and steady, he waited for calm to overtake his impending panic. After several minutes, he felt more like himself and opened his eyes. To his great astonishment, his brown eyed neighbor was the first thing he saw.

Jenny knelt down, touched his shoulder and asked, "Are you feeling sick?" After several seconds, Thad found his voice..."Sort of...he said, yes, I mean no, I mean, I was feeling a bit light headed, but it has passed now. I should be fine.. I guess I should get going."

Again Jenny, the voice of compassion, inquired "Did you drive here?"  "Yes, of course." Thad replied,  thinking that was a strange question. "Well, it might be a considerable length of time before you can drive anywhere." Jenny pointed outside...Thad followed her finger, only to be faced with the harsh reality that no one was going to be driving at all. The storm was hitting hard!  All that could be seen was a wall of white, causing Thad to let out a groan, expressing the utter helplessness he felt.

"I have a proposition for you, but first I need to explain something."  Wordlessly, Thad adjusted his position, turning himself toward her as if to say, "I'm listening."   Jenny dove in. "It is obvious that we have a lot in common. We are, after all, the only two people silly enough to defy the coming storm to retrieve our mail. She punctuated this with a smile, as he offered one of his own in return. Jenny pointed out the obvious truth. "You can't get home." pausing, faltering a bit, she added, "But, I can, so I am inviting you to come home with me. It seems a much better option than staying here." "Well,....yes...." but his many questions were plainly written on his face. Without preamble, Jenny began to answer the questions not voiced.

"I didn't drive here. My apartment building is next door.  All we have to do is make it across the parking lot."  She continued, giving him no room for inquiry. "It is not my habit  to invite strange men into my home, but I know you are safe, completely trustworthy, one of the good guys." Thad narrowed his eyes, questioning how she could  possibly....know this......

"My cousin, Rachel had a room mate in college.....her name was Nicole."  With this, she did pause, allowing him to take in the information. He wanted to respond to all of this, but he struggled to find the right words or any words.  After a long pause, he asked, "Wait a minute, you mean you know Nicole?  My Nicole? What are you telling me?"  "I know her, just a little." Jenny said softly.

Thad's voice got a little higher than he intended. "Rachel, Rachel Comstock is your cousin?!"  "She is." Jenny said, with her voice steady; her heart pounding.  "Rachel spoke of you often, Thad, and with great affection. She thought of you as particularly special. So, I don't feel like I'm taking any kind of risk."

"Oh, I see." was all that Thad could manage. Jenny now spoke with uncharacteristic forcefulness, "Well, if we are going, we'd better go."  She clasped both her little hands around his large one, as she pulled with all her might, lifting him straight to his feet.....shocking both of them, no end!

It was in this state of extraordinary surprise that they exited the post office. Jenny did not let go of Thad's hand as they walked across the parking lot, surrounded by the bitter cold and the twisting wind. The snow nearly blinded them, but they pushed on, knowing safety and warmth would be found only a few feet away.

They reached the green space that separated Jenny's apartment building from the post office. The trees acted as a slight wind break, offering a small measure of protection from the unrelenting force of the storm. Thad put his arm around Jenny's shoulder, pulling her near. An unconscious act; an instinctual move to keep her warm and safe. Jenny did not resist. She, in fact, leaned in closer yet and spoke in his ear, hoping to be heard. "We are going to go straight through the walk way to the stairs on our left. Thad nodded that he heard and understood. Now, arm in arm, they ran for it. The door that led to the stairs slammed behind them, blocking out the storm...........Silence.... They exchanged a look of relief. They mirrored each other with a tentative half smile.